Germany is well known for its romantic Christmas Markets with its delicious food and drinks as well as handcrafts and Christmas decoration. We invite you to hot mulled wines in front of romantic castles and famous buildings like the old town hall at Marienplatz in Munich as well as to tastings of typical regional sweets like Ginger Bread and Christstollen.
Program Description:
Day 1: Munich
Welcome to the elegant, exciting city of Munich. Your tour guide will meet you at the airport, where you will board your private coach to transfer to the city.
A walking tour will give you the opportunity to admire the fine architecture and sights of Munich. View the stately buildings surrounding the Marienplatz (Mary's Square), including the dramatic Gothic architecture of The Old City Hall. The impressive facade of the New Town Hall with its cheerfully animated and melodic “Glockenspiel”, will be certain to entrance visitors. Walk onwards to the Odeonsplatz, with its grand square and buildings built in the 19th century. During your tour, you will enjoy a hot mulled wine at the Christmas market at famous Marienplatz.
Welcome dinner & overnight in Munich.
Day 2: Munich Christmas markets
Today you discover the city by coach. Enjoy spectacular views of the fantastic Nymphenburg Palace, a truly gorgeous building. The Englischer Garten (English Garden), with its extensive grounds complete with bridges, waterfalls, flora and fauna, is a wonderful stop on your tour of Munich.
Enjoy a traditional lunch in a Munich brewery pub: White sausage with Brezn and 1 glass of Beer will give you enough energy for the afternoon, where you have time to discover the Christmas Markets.
Our suggestions are:
Tollwood festival: This special Christmas Market is situated on the “Theresienwiese”, the same spot where the Oktoberfest takes place. It is a market with lots of hand-made stuff and delicious food from all over the world and in addition many events like cabaret, theater or concerts.
OR
Munich Schwabing:
Over 100 artists from all over Germany create a place in this hectic world where one can gather, relax and enjoy the unique atmosphere that is the “Schwabing’s Christmas Market”. The concept has been one of an artists market from the very beginning. An unmistakable flair can be found here with the high level of artistic talent and craftsmanship. This is further underlined by the quality of the daily cultural program and fine foods.
Dinner in a typical Bavarian restaurant & overnight in Munich.
Day 3: Excursion to Lake Chiemsee
Venture today on the way to the "Bavarian Sea” – the Lake Chiemsee. During the boat trip from Prien to Frauenchiemsee Island, which literally translates into “Women’s Island”, you get to enjoy the view over the idyllic landscape.Once you arrive on the island, a romantic winter fairy tale awaits you. Festive lighting, fragrant delicacies, exceptional handicrafts and more make this Christmas market one of the most romantic ones Bavaria has to offer! (only on weekends).
Dinner & overnight in Munich.
Day 4: Nuremberg
After breakfast, you will leave Munich and continue to Nuremberg.
On a guided walking tour you will immerse yourself in the impressive history of the former imperial city. You will learn interesting facts about the castle and fountains, the church and art as well as the history and present of the city. Afterwards, you will visit the “Christkindles Markt” – the city’s famous Christmas Market. Don’t miss out on tasting a typical product from Nuremberg – the Ginger Bread.
In the late afternoon you will arrive in Dresden and pay a visit to the well-known Striezelmarkt.
Our tips for the evening:
Visit a concert in the Semper Opera House or take a stroll through the city and take in the special atmosphere during that time of the year.
Dinner & Overnight in Dresden
Day 5: Dresden - Berlin
You will start the day with a city tour of Dresden, once known as the “Jewel Box” of Germany, due to its architecturally stunning city center. A highlight will be a visit of the city’s famous Frauenkirche (Church of Our Lady). Revel in your surroundings while learning about Dresden, present and past.
Before you make your way to Berlin, you’ll have time for a little snack. Sample the scrumptious Dresdner Christstollen - a famous product of the city and enjoy it with a cup of coffee. You may be tempted to purchase some additional treats.
In the late afternoon, you arrive in Germany’s capital. Take your time to visit one of the many Christmas Markets in Berlin. Enjoy a cup of Gluhwein (hot mulled wine) while marvel at the spectacular illuminations throughout the markets. No visit is complete without browsing the many handicrafts available for purchase.
Our suggestions are:
Gendarmenmarkt: Thanks to its location at the square between Franzoesischer Dom (French Cathedral) and Deutscher Dom (German Cathedral), the Christmas market at Gendarmenmarkt is one of the most atmospheric in the city. The market features the works of painters, photographers, designers and carpenters. Jugglers, fire-eaters, choirs and classical, jazz or Gospel ensembles provide a varied entertainment programme on each market day. (entrance fee)
Charlottenburg Palace: The special feature of the Christmas market is its setting in front of the famous Charlottenburg Palace. About 250 merchants exhibit and offer nostalgic christmas crafts like nativity figures and christmas tree decorations. Also the Christmas sweets offered there are traditional such as "Stollen", Spritz biscuits and Marzipan bread.
Spandau: The location in the old town of Spandau- a district on the western outskirts of Berlin- makes this Christmas market a unique experience. From Monday to Friday around 250 market stalls present all kind of Christmas decoration and seasonal food. Every day there is a free stage program and lots of entertainment for children.
Dinner & overnight in Berlin
Day 6: Berlin Sightseeing
Today you will embark on a sightseeing tour of Berlin. Marvel at stunning historical structures like the Brandenburg Gate or the Reichstag while learning about the history, culture and diversity of Berlin. Enjoy the sights from the comfort of your private coach.
After lunch at a traditional restaurant, enjoy the view over the city from the top of Berlin’s landmark, the 365-meter-high Fernsehturm (TV Tower). Back on the ground, it’s time to go back in time to when Germany was divided into East and West. Pay a visit to the former border crossing Checkpoint Charlie and marvel at the East Side Gallery - the remains of the Wall that divided Germany and split Berlin into parts.
Dinner & overnight in Berlin
Day 7: Potsdam
On your last full day, a private coach takes you to Potsdam and will stay at your disposal. You will see the most beautiful places and attractions of Potsdam such as the imposing city castle that once served as the principal and winter residence of the kings of Prussia. A visit to the famous Sanssouci Castle and its enormous gardens completes the tour. (not on Monday)
Back in Berlin, you’ll have the afternoon to yourself.
Our tips:
- Hop on a boat and join a Christmas River Cruise on the River Spree
- Visit one of Berlin´s many top museums like the Pergamon Museum or the ensemble on Museum Island
- Go on a shopping spree - small boutiques or big malls – Berlin has it all, it is your choice!
- Berlin is internationally famous for its nightlife - take advantage of your last night in the capital and try a cabaret, theatre, bar or pub.
Farewell dinner & overnight in Berlin.
Day 8: Homeward journey from Berlin
Depending on your departure time you will have the possibility to go Christmas shopping and buy some last-minute gifts or souvenirs for your loved ones.
Copyright program and pictures: © APPINA TRAVEL GmbH
Best travel season: End of November and December
Closest airport for arrival: Munich Airport
Closest airport for departure: Berlin Airport
