This tour takes you to some of the most spectacular holiday events in Germany during this most special time of the year. You’ll take in Christmas markets in Dresden and Leipzig and attend world class performances by some of the best German musical organizations. You’ll then travel by train to Franconia, where you’ll visit the famous markets in Nuremberg and Rothenburg ob der Tauber, but also some off the beaten path holiday experiences that will provide memories to last a lifetime!
Day 1
Flight from the USA to Dresden
Day 2
Arrive in Germany and transfer via train to the beautiful city of Dresden on the Elbe River. There will be time for an introductory walking tour of the city. During our stay in Dresden, we will participate in special holiday concert events such as organ concerts in the Frauenkirche, concerts by the world famous boys choir, the Kreuzchor, performances at theworld-renowned Semper Opera House, and the Gewandhaus Orchestra and Thomaner boys choir in Leipzig.
Day 3
Today we’ll take an escorted full day tour to the magical village of Seiffen, where many of the toys and Christmas decorations Germany is known for are made.
Day 4
Explore the Strietzelmarkt, the oldest and one of the most unique markets in the country. As time allows, we will visit some of Dresden’s other markets and sites.
Day 5
Today’s excursion will take us to the largest city in Saxony, Leipzig. Stroll through the large market in front of the town hall and take in a world class performance.
Day 6
Today’s excursion will take us to Meissen and the world famous Meissen Porcelain Factory, where the first European porcelain was produced in the 18thcentury. After visiting the Porcelain Museum, there will be time to see other sites in Meissen, including the Albrechtsburg fortress and the Gothic church.
Day 7
Today we transfer via train from Dresden to Nuremberg. We’ll take in this famous medieval city and it’s enormous Christmas market. Late in the afternoon we’ll pick up our small bus and travel to our hotel in the village of Neuendettelsau and enjoy a fantastic meal.
Day 8
We’ll visit Rothenburg ob der Tauber and it’s magical Reiterlesmarkt. As the day turns to dusk the market takes on a true medieval feel. On our way to Rothenburg, we’ll explore the small city of Ansbach with its quaint old city and rococo castle.
Day 9
Explore the picturesque Franconian countryside en route to Bamberg, site of the famous “Krippenweg”, or Nativity path, where we’ll see dozens of nativity scenes throughout the old city. On the way to Bamberg we’ll have short stops in Herzogenaurach and/or Langenzenn. We may also start out our day at the fantastic pilgrimage church Vierzehnheiligen, designed by renowned architect, Balthasar Neumann.
Day 10
Explore the countryside of Middle Franconia with stops in Dinklesbühl, Ornbau, and Wolframs-Eschenbach. We’ll end up at the Wolfgangshof market in the small village of Anwanden to wrap up our tour. The market at Wolfgangshof is noted as one of the best “off the beaten path” holiday experiences.
Day 11
Transfer to Nuremberg airport with our mini bus as we say goodbye to our driver and check-in for departure to the USA.
Prices starting at $3,500 plus airfare. This 2024 tour sold out, but will be offered again in 2025. Make plans now to visit Germany during this most special season.