14-Day Christmas Market Itinerary: Germany, Prague, Vienna & Budapest

Imagine strolling through cobblestone streets adorned with twinkling lights, the air filled with the scent of roasted chestnuts and mulled wine. This 14-day journey takes you through Cologne, Mainz, Heidelberg, Rothenburg ob der Tauber, Nuremberg, Prague, Vienna, and Budapest, each city offering its own unique festive charm. From the renowned Christkindlesmarkt in Nuremberg to the enchanting markets in Prague's Old Town Square, you'll experience a blend of German, Czech, Austrian, and Hungarian cultures. Picture yourself savoring local specialties like trdelník in Prague or Käsespätzle in Vienna, all while surrounded by historic castles and festive decorations. This route is a dream for holiday enthusiasts seeking authentic Christmas markets, cozy winter atmospheres, and rich cultural traditions. Whether you're a seasoned traveler or new to European winters, this journey promises memories to cherish for years to come.

POIs

• Cologne
• Bernkastel-Kues
• Mainz
• Heidelberg
• Rothenburg ob der Tauber

**Day 1: Arrival in Cologne, Germany** - **Morning:** Arrive in **Cologne**, one of Germany’s most festive cities during the holiday season. - **Afternoon:** Explore the famous *Cologne Cathedral*, a UNESCO World Heritage site, and take in the magnificent Christmas market held in front of it. The market is filled with beautiful handcrafted gifts, local food, and seasonal treats. - **Evening:** Stroll through the market and enjoy a cup of *Glühwein* (mulled wine) or *Reibekuchen* (fried potato cakes) while soaking in the festive atmosphere. - Official Website: https://www.cologne-tourism.com/experiences-lifestyle/christmas **Day 2: Cologne, Germany** - **Morning:** Visit the *Alter Markt*, another popular Christmas market in Cologne’s Old Town, and explore the charming streets around the *Heinrich Böll Platz*. - **Afternoon:** If you're interested in history, visit the *Wallraf-Richartz Museum* or take a boat tour along the Rhine River to enjoy the winter landscape. - **Evening:** Enjoy dinner in a traditional Cologne restaurant, and perhaps try the regional specialty *Himmel un Ääd*(potatoes with black pudding, apples, and onions). - Official Website: https://www.cologne-tourism.com/experiences-lifestyle/christmas **Day 3: Cologne to Bernkastel-Kues, Germany** - **Morning:** Travel from Cologne to **Bernkastel-Kues** (approx. 2.5-3 hours by train). - **Afternoon:** Arrive in **Bernkastel-Kues** and visit the *Bernkastel Christmas Market*, set in the charming medieval square surrounded by half-timbered houses. Sample Moselle wine and try local treats like *Lebkuchen* (gingerbread). - **Evening:** Take a relaxing evening stroll along the river or enjoy dinner in a cozy wine tavern. - Official Website: https://en.bernkastel.de/christmas-market **Day 4: Bernkastel-Kues to Mainz, Germany** - **Morning:** Travel from Bernkastel-Kues to Mainz (approx. 2.5 hours by train). - **Afternoon:** Visit the *Mainz Christmas Market*, set around the iconic Mainz Cathedral. Explore festive stalls offering local crafts, food, and holiday gifts. - **Evening:** Enjoy dinner along the Rhine River or in a traditional Mainz restaurant, perhaps trying *Handkäse mit Musik* (cheese with onions). - Official Website: https://www.mainz-tourismus.com/en/explore-enjoy/events/winter-in-mainz **Day 5: Mainz to Heidelberg, Germany** - **Morning:** Take a short train ride (about 1 hour) to Heidelberg. - **Afternoon:** Explore the *Heidelberg Christmas Market*, set against the picturesque backdrop of the Heidelberg Castle. The market sprawls across several squares in the historic old town. - **Evening:** Have dinner in the Altstadt (Old Town) or along the Philosophenweg (Philosopher’s Path), with stunning views of the town and castle. - Official Website: https://www.heidelberg-marketing.de/en/event/heidelberg-christmas-market **Day 6: Heidelberg to Rothenburg ob der Tauber, Germany** - **Morning:** Travel to Rothenburg ob der Tauber (approx. 3 hours by train). - **Afternoon:** Visit the *Reiterlesmarkt* (Rider's Christmas Market), one of Germany’s most iconic markets, set in Rothenburg’s beautifully preserved medieval town center. - **Evening:** Take an evening walk through the illuminated streets, or attend a candlelit tour of the town walls. - Official Website: https://www.rothenburg.de/en/erleben/veranstaltungen/weihnachtsmarkt-/-reiterlesmarkt **Day 7: Rothenburg ob der Tauber to Nuremberg, Germany** - **Morning:** Take a short train ride (about 1.5 hours) from Rothenburg ob der Tauber to Nuremberg. - **Afternoon:** Visit the *Nuremberg Christkindlesmarkt*, one of the oldest and most famous Christmas markets in Europe. Enjoy local treats like *Nürnberger Rostbratwurst* (Nuremberg sausages) and *Lebkuchen*. - **Evening:** Explore the Nuremberg Castle or enjoy a traditional Bavarian dinner in the city’s Old Town. - Official Website: https://www.christkindlesmarkt.de/en/

A mini scrapbook from our trip!

**Day 8: Nuremberg to Prague, Czech Republic** - **Morning:** Travel from Nuremberg to Prague (approx. 5-6 hours by train). - **Afternoon:** Upon arrival, head to *Old Town Square*, home to Prague's main Christmas market. Admire the beautiful decorations and sample traditional Czech treats like *trdelník* (chimney cake). - **Evening:** Enjoy an evening stroll across the Charles Bridge to enjoy Prague’s festive lights and panoramic views. - Official Website: https://www.christkindlesmarkt.de/en/ **Day 9: Prague, Czech Republic** - **Morning:** Visit Prague Castle, beautifully decorated for the holidays, and enjoy sweeping views of the city. - **Afternoon:** Head to *Wenceslas Square* for another major Christmas market. Browse stalls offering Czech handicrafts, pastries, and festive food. - **Evening:** Enjoy a traditional Czech dinner at a local restaurant, followed by a visit to *St. Nicholas Church* and its Christmas market. - Official Website: https://prague.eu/en/akce/old-town-square-christmas-market/ **Day 10: Prague to Vienna, Austria** - **Morning:** Travel from Prague to Vienna (approx. 4 hours by train). - **Afternoon:** Upon arrival, visit the *Vienna Christmas Market* at *Rathausplatz* (City Hall). Browse for handcrafted gifts, toys, and Austrian treats like *Sachertorte* and *Käsekrainer* (cheese sausage). - **Evening:** Stroll through the *Schonbrunn Palace* Christmas market and enjoy a warm cup of punch while admiring the festive lights around the palace. - Official Website: https://www.christkindlmarkt.at/en/ **Day 11: Vienna, Austria** - **Morning:** Visit the *Stephansplatz Christmas Market* in front of St. Stephen’s Cathedral. Explore more markets in the surrounding pedestrian area. - **Afternoon:** Visit the *Prater* amusement park and enjoy a ride on the historic Giant Ferris Wheel for panoramic views of Vienna, particularly beautiful when the city is lit up for Christmas. - **Evening:** Enjoy a classical concert in Vienna or indulge in a traditional Viennese dinner at a local restaurant. - Official Website: https://www.christkindlmarkt.at/en/ **Day 12: Vienna to Budapest, Hungary** - **Morning:** Travel from Vienna to Budapest (approx. 2.5 hours by train). - **Afternoon:** Upon arrival in Budapest, head to *St. Stephen’s Square* to explore one of Budapest’s most iconic Christmas markets. The illuminated St. Stephen's Basilica serves as a stunning backdrop. - **Evening:** Browse the market’s stalls for handcrafted goods, try Hungarian holiday snacks like *chimney cake*, and sip mulled wine while enjoying the festive atmosphere. - Official Website: https://budapestchristmas.com/ **Day 13: Budapest, Hungary** - **Morning:** Visit *Vörösmarty Square*, known for its artisan market stalls and delicious Hungarian food like *gulyás*(goulash) and *pálinka* (fruit brandy). - **Afternoon:** Explore Budapest’s historic landmarks, including *Buda Castle*, *Fisherman’s Bastion*, and *Matthias Church*, all beautifully decorated for the season. - **Evening:** Enjoy a traditional Hungarian dinner at a local restaurant, then relax in one of Budapest’s famous thermal baths, such as Széchenyi or Gellért. - Official Website: https://budapestchristmas.com/ **Day 14: Budapest, Hungary (Departure)** - **Morning:** If time allows, visit the *Óbuda Christmas Market* or take a leisurely walk along the Danube promenade to enjoy the scenic views of the Parliament and Buda Castle. - **Afternoon:** Depart for your next destination or home, filled with memories of your unforgettable Christmas market adventure.

Traveling between **Cologne, Mainz, Heidelberg, Rothenburg ob der Tauber, Nuremberg, Prague, Vienna, and Budapest** during the Christmas season is both efficient and scenic. Each leg connects seamlessly by train, offering time to relax and watch the winter landscapes unfold. Within Germany, **Deutsche Bahn (DB)** operates fast and reliable **ICE** and **IC** trains linking major cities—Cologne to Mainz, Mainz to Heidelberg, Heidelberg to Nuremberg. Many routes pass through picturesque valleys and river towns, turning travel days into part of the adventure. For the international legs, direct trains from **Nuremberg to Prague** (3 hours), **Prague to Vienna** (4 hours), and **Vienna to Budapest** (2.5 hours) make border crossings easy and comfortable. Trains fill quickly around Christmas, so booking seats in advance is recommended. To simplify your route, consider **flying into Cologne** and **departing from Budapest**—both have excellent international connections and festive welcomes. <u>\*\*\*For train tickets we recommend</u> **<u>downloading the Omio App!</u>** <u>This is our favorite app for booking trains in Europe \*\*\*</u>

POIs

• Nuremberg
• Prague
• Vienna
• Budapest

From the Gothic spires of **Cologne Cathedral** to the romantic ramparts of **Heidelberg Castle**, this journey through Germany’s Rhineland and Bavaria glows with centuries of history wrapped in Christmas charm. In **Cologne**, the vast **Dom** towers over a dazzling Christmas market filled with handcrafted gifts, mulled wine, and warm Reibekuchen. Wander the **Alter Markt** and **Heinrich Böll Platz**, where twinkling lights and medieval façades set the perfect festive tone. Further south in **Mainz**, the **Mainz Cathedral** rises above the market square, surrounded by stalls of woodcarvings and local specialties. Nearby, **Bernkastel-Kues**’s medieval half-timbered square hosts one of the Moselle’s most magical markets, where visitors sip regional wine and sample **Lebkuchen** by lantern light. In **Heidelberg**, the market spreads through the Old Town beneath the silhouette of **Heidelberg Castle**, one of Germany’s most romantic ruins. **Rothenburg ob der Tauber** transforms into a storybook village with its Reiterlesmarkt—candlelit streets, timbered houses, and snow-dusted rooftops straight from a fairy tale. The legendary **Christkindlesmarkt** in **Nuremberg** captures the spirit of old-world Christmas. The iconic Christkind, a young woman dressed as an angel, opens the market each year. Here, locals gather under the shadow of the **Nuremberg Castle**, savoring sausages, spiced nuts, and gingerbread as choirs echo through the square. Vienna's Christmas markets, such as the one at **Rathausplatz**, offer a blend of traditional Austrian foods, crafts, and cultural performances, creating a magical holiday setting. In Prague, the **Old Town Square** hosts a Christmas market with handcrafted goods, traditional Czech foods, and festive decorations, reflecting the city's rich cultural heritage. Budapest's Christmas markets, like the one at **Vörösmarty Square**, showcase Hungarian crafts, foods, and live music, providing an authentic local experience.

POIs

• Cologne Cathedral
• Alter Markt
• Mainz Cathedral
• Heiliggeistkirche
• Rothenburger Reiterlesmarkt
• Nuremberg Castle
• Nürnberger Christkindlesmarkt

Looking for cozy and convenient places to stay along your Christmas market route? Hotel Pension Treppengasse Nr. 5 offers a charming, intimate atmosphere right in the heart of the old town, making it perfect for stops like Rothenburg or Heidelberg. Its location means you can easily stroll to markets without the hassle of transport. Gästehaus Luise is another great option, known for its warm hospitality and comfortable rooms. It’s ideal for stays in Mainz or Cologne, where you want to be close to the festive buzz but enjoy a peaceful retreat at night. Breakfast here often includes local treats, adding to the seasonal feel. For a more traditional guesthouse experience, Pension und Gästehaus Paffrath provides a welcoming vibe with a homely touch. It suits travelers visiting Nuremberg or Vienna, offering easy access to markets and cozy common areas to unwind after a day of exploring. Booking early is key during the busy Christmas market season. These places fill up fast, so securing your room well in advance ensures you get the best spot. Look for accommodations that include breakfast and are within walking distance to markets to maximize your festive experience without extra stress.

POIs

• Cologne: Mondial Am Dom Hotel Cologne - MGallery Collection
• Bernkastel-Kues: Märchenhotel
• Mainz: Hilton Mainz
• Heidelberg: Guesthouse Heidelberg
• Rothenberg ob der Tauber: Pension Elke Rothenburg
• Nuremberg: SORAT Hotel Saxx Nuremberg
• Prague: Merchant's Yard Residence
• Vienna: Flemings Selection Hotel Wien-City
• Budapest: Hotel Zenit Budapest Palace

These are some of our favorite experiences along this route that require tickets ahead of time. We've personally done each of these and recommend them all - they all add to the festive Christmas spirit and are a fun supplement to visiting the markets.

POIs

• Budapest: Classical Music Concerts in St Stephen's Basilica
• Budapest: City Highlights Sightseeing Cruise
• Mozart & Vivaldi's Four Seasons in Musikverein Vienna
• Vienna: Light of Creation at the Votive Church - an immersive light show
• Prague: Entry Ticket Classical Concert at the Mirror Chapel
• Prague: 50-Minute Sightseeing Evening Cruise
• Cologne: Winter Afternoon Boat Cruise on the Rhine

Beyond the markets, each city offers a rich layer of art, history, and holiday tradition. **Cologne** Step inside the **Wallraf-Richartz Museum**, one of Germany’s oldest art museums, to escape the chill and admire centuries of European masterpieces. Then warm up with local specialties like **Handkäse mit Musik**, a Rhineland classic served with onions and vinegar, or indulge in spiced **Lebkuchen** from nearby Christmas stalls; the aroma alone feels like winter. Enjoy a classical concert inside the **Cathedral** or a seasonal performance at the **Philharmonie**, where carols echo through candlelight. **Rothenburg ob der Tauber** Embrace the town’s medieval magic with a **candlelit tour along the old city walls**, where snow-dusted rooftops glow under lantern light. The guides’ storytelling brings Rothenburg’s centuries of history to life, adding a cozy, nostalgic charm to the night. **Vienna** Wander the illuminated grounds of **Schönbrunn Palace**, where elegant baroque architecture meets festive market stalls filled with pastries, ornaments, and music. Nearby, the **Prater amusement park** keeps its nostalgic charm alive in winter with lights, rides, and the iconic Giant Ferris Wheel offering panoramic views of the city’s frosty skyline. Vienna brings Christmas culture to life with its renowned **Vienna State Opera**, **Musikverein concerts**, and ballet performances in gilded halls. **Budapest** End your journey in pure relaxation at **Budapest’s thermal baths**, such as **Széchenyi** or **Gellért**, where steam rises into the cold evening air beneath grand neo-baroque domes. It’s a quintessential winter experience: restorative, atmospheric, and steeped in Hungarian tradition. Seasonal concerts inside **St. Stephen’s Basilica** offer a moving finale to your journey. Pair an evening of music with a nearby market, and you’ll experience Europe at its most enchanting—a blend of artistry, tradition, and timeless holiday spirit.

POIs

• Wallraf-Richartz-Museum & Fondation Corboud
• Schönbrunn Palace
• Kölner Philharmonie
• Musikverein Wien
• Széchenyi Thermal Bath

Along your holiday route, several cities offer unique cultural experiences that enhance the festive atmosphere. To find authentic cultural experiences, consider visiting local theaters, attending holiday concerts, or participating in traditional workshops. Combining these cultural visits with sampling local treats like mulled wine or regional pastries can enrich your journey. Each city along your route offers **unique holiday customs** and traditions, providing a rich tapestry of cultural experiences to enjoy. Remember to check local event calendars for specific dates and details, as schedules may vary each year. Enjoy immersing yourself in the diverse cultural offerings of these festive destinations!

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Between market towns, the journey unfolds through Germany’s most picturesque winter landscapes, each region offering its own quiet beauty. Cruise or walk along the **Rhine River**, where mist rises around hilltop fortresses and vineyard terraces dusted with frost. The stretch between **Mainz** and **Koblenz** is especially magical in winter, its fairy-tale castles like **Marksburg** and **Pfalzgrafenstein** gleaming above the water. In the **Moselle Valley**, the slopes around **Bernkastel-Kues** glow with lanterns and the scent of mulled wine. Snowy vines and half-timbered villages create postcard-perfect scenes ideal for winter walks or cozy tavern evenings. Traveling south, the **Neckar Valley** around **Heidelberg** offers forested hills and castle views — perfect for a brisk winter hike along the **Philosophenweg**. Farther into **Franconia**, the countryside between **Rothenburg ob der Tauber** and **Nuremberg** feels timeless, its cobblestone lanes and quiet woods blanketed in snow. For a final scenic flourish, consider extending to Austria’s **Salzkammergut region**, where mountain lakes mirror the twinkle of nearby Christmas lights in Salzburg, a serene close to a festive journey.

POIs

• Philosophenweg
• Moselle Hills
• Pfalzgrafenstein Castle

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