Europe’s Christmas Markets Special Edition

DAY 1 – PRAGUE
Imperial Prague (1 night) is one of Europe’s most beautiful cities, and after meeting we’ll spend an easy afternoon discovering its bridges, cobblestone alleyways and magnificent Old Town. Of course, we will enjoy our first Christmas Market this evening!

DAYS 2-3 – CESKY KRUMLOV
The next day we visit with artisans at a local brewery for a tasting.  Cesky Krumlov (2 nights) is a remarkably preserved village now recognized as a historic site. We’ll explore both Cesky Krumlov and Ceske Budweiss during one of the most beautiful times of year.

DAYS 4-5 – VIENNA
There is no finer expression of the power and glory of Imperial Vienna that Schönbrunn Palace, and it is the spectacular centerpiece of a day full of memorable activities. Enjoy a privately guided tour of the 22-room apartments of Emperor Franz Joseph and his charming wife, Elisabeth, known as Sisi. It’s truly one of the world’s most remarkable residences, the ultimate expression of the Habsburgs who ruled a vast swath of Europe for six centuries.

The most romantic of all of the Viennese holiday markets happens right here in front of the palace. A giant Christmas tree is silhouetted against the baroque palace façade. Usually, there are 60 stalls or so and in keeping with the setting, the offerings are especially opulent.

DAYS 6-7 – BUDAPEST
We proceed to Budapest (1 night) where the day ends with a promenade along the Danube. In a fascinating daylong exploration, we ramble from the Royal Palace in Buda to Europe’s largest synagogue and a district overflowing with cafes and musicians in Pest. On our final morning, we part company after breakfast with time for you to shop or explore on your own.

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