Twinkling Europe: Christmas by Train

Arrive in Budapest and enjoy a smooth transfer into the heart of the city. After settling in and grabbing a bite, meet your private guide for a walking tour of the Pest side, tailored to your interests. As evening falls, dive straight into the holiday spirit while wandering Budapest’s Christmas markets, glowing with lights, music, and seasonal treats.

Begin the day with a small‑group culinary walk through Budapest. Taste local specialties at the market, enjoy a relaxed lunch, and finish with a wine tasting. In the afternoon, cross the Danube to explore the Buda side, including Buda Castle and Fisherman’s Bastion, before discovering the quieter Christmas markets overlooking the river.

Travel by direct train to Vienna this morning. After time to relax, meet your private guide for an introductory walk through Vienna’s old town, highlighting the city’s imperial past. The evening is free to explore Vienna’s world‑famous Christmas markets, filled with festive scents and elegant surroundings.

Visit Schönbrunn Palace, the former residence of the Habsburg rulers. Explore the palace interiors at your own pace before spending the remainder of the day soaking up Vienna’s festive atmosphere, with ample opportunities to revisit Christmas markets or enjoy seasonal treats.

Board a direct train to Prague. Upon arrival, begin exploring the old town and its Christmas markets before enjoying a panoramic evening cruise along the Vltava River. Sip a drink as Prague’s skyline glows at sunset, adding a magical touch to your first night in the city.

Join a small‑group walking tour of Prague’s old town, discovering iconic landmarks alongside lesser‑known gems. Armed with insider tips, continue exploring independently, weaving through the city’s Christmas markets as you go.

Cross the Charles Bridge to experience a quieter side of Prague before joining a guided tour of the Prague Castle grounds. After exploring the hilltop complex and optional interiors, unwind in the evening with a unique beer spa experience, soaking in beer ingredients while enjoying a freshly poured pint.

Travel by train to Dresden, your first stop in Germany. As you settle into the city, experience its Christmas market stretching across the old and new towns. Later, enjoy a visit to the Green Vault, home to one of Europe’s most impressive collections of jewels and gold.

Spend the morning at leisure before meeting your small group for a festive walking tour of Dresden’s old town. Learn about the city’s landmarks and holiday traditions, ending at the iconic Striezelmarkt, where roasted almonds and mulled wine await.

Take a first‑class train to Berlin. Spend the day exploring the city center and its Christmas markets before enjoying an evening yacht cruise along the Spree River, watching Berlin light up in full holiday splendor.

Join a small‑group tour of Berlin’s city center, exploring the major historical landmarks while gaining insider perspective on the city’s layered past. The remainder of the day is free for further exploration or market hopping.

Enjoy a relaxed morning before meeting your small group for a festive food tour of Berlin’s Christmas markets. Visit several of the city’s best markets, sampling seasonal food and drinks while soaking up the unique atmosphere of each neighborhood.

After a Christmas‑filled journey across four countries, your private driver transfers you to the airport, marking the end of your Eastern European holiday adventure.