Imperial Christmas Markets
9 days from Munich to Budapest
Hosted by Kassey Weaver, December 3 - 11, 2024
The European Christmas markets aglow with the warmth of a simpler time. From wooden stalls with handmade ornaments and hot mulled wine to grand Christmas cathedrals and glistening lights, this vacation is a true gift of timeless traditions.
This itinerary is more than just the markets as it will include guided sightseeing in some of Europe's most popular cities, Muinch, Germany, Vienna, Austria and Budapest, Hungary. All the while your professional Tour Director will be with you to handle all the details, give you insider tips and of course share stories about the places you visit.
918.470.9778 or kassey@thejoyoftravel.net
$3081 per person
land package based on double, includes taxes, first- class hotel accommodations, multilingual tour director, professional driver, local guides, breakfast daily, two dinners, guided sightseeing as outlined above and travel protection.
Airfare and gratuities are additional.
Pre and post extensions can be arranged. Single and triple room accommodations are limited.
$539 per person deposit is required which includes insurance
Itinerary:
Day 1 – 03 DEC (TUE) – ARRIVE MUNICH, GERMANY
Welcome to Germany! Individual transfer between the Munich Airport and your Globus accommodations. Meet your Tour Director and fellow travelers tonight at the welcome dinner.
Day 2 – 04 DEC (WED) – MUNICH. EXCURSION TO NEUSCHWANSTEIN
Experience a day straight from the storybooks on this exclusive encounter with Neuschwanstein Castle and the village of Oberammergau. Begin with a scenic drive along the Bavarian Alps, reaching the foot of majestic Neuschwanstein Castle. Here, an audio guide will introduce you to the wonders of “Mad” King Ludwig’s architectural obsession. Then, continue to the famed Romantic Road to the village of Oberammergau, home of the world-famous Passion Play that residents perform every 10 years. Stroll through the narrow lanes of this quaint village and marvel at the exquisite examples of traditional woodcarving.
Day 3 – 05 DEC (THU) – MUNICH – NUREMBURG
After breakfast, a morning highlights tour of Munich. Experience the geographical and cultural heart of Munich at its Marienplatz, the town square since 1158. Stroll through the home of historic buildings, including the Old and New Town Halls in the picturesque heart and soul of the city. Continue to Nuremburg. Visit the Memorium Nuremberg Trials and Courtroom 600 (if available*), the Documentation Center, and the Zeppelin Field. Take an orientation walk this afternoon through the pedestrian area of the Old Town. A target for allied bombings, Nuremberg was an important symbol to the Nazi regime having been the location of the party rallies. It was chosen by the Allies as the location of the Nuremberg Trials. Visit the Courthouse where you’ll learn all about these historic trials. Time to visit the Christmas Markets. *The visit of the Courtroom 600 is not guaranteed since it is not open daily. Timing and dates are TBD for 2024.
Day 4 – 06 DEC (FRI) NUREMBURG
Your Globus Tour Director will be available after breakfast to help with any plans you may need for your day at leisure.
Day 5 –07 DEC (SAT)– NUREMBURG – PASSAU– VIENNA, AUSTRIA
This morning drive to Passau. Guided tour of Passau—the City of Three Rivers—where the Danube, Inn, and Ilz Rivers meet. Visit stunning sites of Stephans Dom, Residenz Platz, and Town Hall, adorned with paintings celebrating the marriage of Emperor Leopold I. Visit the Monastery Niedernburg and the bridge crossing the River Inn. Follow the royal footsteps of Emperor Leopold on the stairs where the ruler walked and prayed after his wedding here. Take in the panoramic view from the Monastery and ride or walk to return to ship in this historic and picturesque German city on the beautiful Austrian border. Time to explore the local Christkindlmarkets am Dom (Christmas Markets) Continue to Vienna.
Day 6 – 08 DEC (SUN) – VIENNA
Fall in love with Vienna, the city that has played a key role throughout history. It is easy to see how musical geniuses such as Mozart and Strauss were inspired by this captivating city. Guided sightseeing features a drive along the famous Ringstrasse and St. Stephen’s Cathedral. Visit St. Stephen's Cathedral, the magnificent mother church of the Roman Catholic Archdiocese of Vienna. A sight to behold, the cathedral features the massive Romanesque “Giant's Door” – adorned with dragons, birds, lions, monks, and demons. Balance of the day is at leisure to explore the Stephansplatz Christmas Markets.
Day 7 – 09 DEC (MON) – VIENNA – BUDAPEST, HUNGARY
After breakfast this morning depart for The Pearl of the Danube Budapest! Enjoy a guided sightseeing includes the Matthias Coronation Church and Heroes’ Square. Since the wedding of King Matthias I, the church bearing his name has continued to host royal weddings and coronation ceremonies within its grand Neo-Gothic walls. From Matthias Coronation Church, you’ll also take in the perfect view of Fisherman’s Bastion with its seven towers overlooking the Danube River.
Day 8 – 10 DEC (TUE) – 09 DEC (MON) – BUDAPEST
Your Globus Tour Director will be available after breakfast to assist you with any touring plans for your day at leisure. Enjoy a fabulous farewell dinner. Hungarian cuisine and hospitality are prominent features of the country’s culture. Tonight, experience them yourself as you spend a memorable evening at a local restaurant, enjoying an authentic 3-course dinner with two drinks and coffee. This is your chance to try legendary Hungarian goulash, or you can select a delectable dish from the international menu.
Day 9 – 11 DEC (WED) – DEPART BUDAPEST, HUNGARY
After breakfast your individually arranged transfers to the Budapest Airport will be available.
All payments are made directly to wholesale suppliers and any cancellations or changes are subject to their fee schedule and policies. Please be aware that deposits are non-refundable. If insurance has been purchased you may be entitled to a credit up to the full amount paid, minus the cost of the insurance. Exceptions may be made for medical reasons, but it is at the sole discretion of the insurance company. The Joy of Travel, LLC does not have any control over insurance claims or payments.