Holiday Magic in Germany, France, and Switzerland
There's no place like Europe for the holidays!
Tis the season to treat yourself to a magical getaway! Get a close look at how the holidays are celebrated in Europe on this 6-night exploration of seasonal festivities in Switzerland, Germany, and France. On this trip, you'll get to peruse world-famous Christmas markets, ride through the stunning countryside between destinations by train, and soak up the joy of total immersion in the Christmas spirit!
What's Included
- Round-trip economy class airfare to Zurich (ZRH)
- Standard class rail from Zurich to Freiburg
- 3 nights in Freiburg at the Novotel Freiburg am Konzerthaus or similar
- Round-trip standard class rail from Freiburg to Strasbourg
- Standard class rail from Freiburg to Zurich
- 3 nights in Zurich at the Swissotel Hotel Zurich or similar
- Round-trip standard class rail from Zurich to Lucerne
- Round-trip standard class rail from Zurich to Lake Constance
- Breakfast daily
Great Ways to Explore
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Browse Christmas markets in Germany, Switzerland, and France.
Join the caroling fun on the streets of Germany!
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Find the perfect Christmas ornament in France at the oldest Christmas market in the world.
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See the pristine European countryside as you travel by train.
-
Take in the contemplative atmosphere of Advent in Switzerland.
Get into the spirit of the season with a 6-night tour of three of Europe's most beloved holiday destinations. Fly into Zurich and get the week of excitement started!
During this trip, you will make your way by rail between Germany, France, and Switzerland. Get an introduction to the marvelous world of Christmas markets in Freiburg. You can explore the highlights of the city, or simply lose yourself in the magic of the season.
Next, you'll chug over to the Alsace region of France, where you'll spend the day in a city known for its picturesque beauty: Strasbourg. Peruse the nativity scenes, ornaments, and Christmas trees as you sample the sweets and warm drinks the locals love.
Finally, you'll return to Switzerland to explore its holiday scene in earnest. Take to the quaint cobbled streets and beautifully decorated city. Your vacation will include day trips to cities such as Lucerne, Constance, and more!
Please note that some recommendations in the following suggested itinerary may not be included in your package. Check What's Included above for full details on inclusions.
- Round-trip economy class airfare to Zurich (ZRH)
- Standard class rail from Zurich to Freiburg
- 3 nights in Freiburg at the Novotel Freiburg am Konzerthaus or similar
- Round-trip standard class rail from Freiburg to Strasbourg
- Standard class rail from Freiburg to Zurich
- 3 nights in Zurich at the Swissotel Hotel Zurich or similar
- Round-trip standard class rail from Zurich to Lucerne
- Round-trip standard class rail from Zurich to Lake Constance
- Breakfast daily
-
Browse Christmas markets in Germany, Switzerland, and France.
Join the caroling fun on the streets of Germany!
-
Find the perfect Christmas ornament in France at the oldest Christmas market in the world.
-
See the pristine European countryside as you travel by train.
-
Take in the contemplative atmosphere of Advent in Switzerland.
Get into the spirit of the season with a 6-night tour of three of Europe's most beloved holiday destinations. Fly into Zurich and get the week of excitement started!
During this trip, you will make your way by rail between Germany, France, and Switzerland. Get an introduction to the marvelous world of Christmas markets in Freiburg. You can explore the highlights of the city, or simply lose yourself in the magic of the season.
Next, you'll chug over to the Alsace region of France, where you'll spend the day in a city known for its picturesque beauty: Strasbourg. Peruse the nativity scenes, ornaments, and Christmas trees as you sample the sweets and warm drinks the locals love.
Finally, you'll return to Switzerland to explore its holiday scene in earnest. Take to the quaint cobbled streets and beautifully decorated city. Your vacation will include day trips to cities such as Lucerne, Constance, and more!
Please note that some recommendations in the following suggested itinerary may not be included in your package. Check What's Included above for full details on inclusions.
Day 1. Welcome to Zurich!
After you've cleared customs, hop a train from Zurich to Freiburg, where your first accommodation awaits. After you check in, you can spend the rest of the day however you'd like.Â
A Tip For Your Trip: It is a two hour train from Zurich airport to Freiburg, so we recommend choosing a flight that arrives early in the morning to give you more time to explore!
Train from Zurich airport to Freiburg
Check-in - Novotel Freiburg am Konzerthaus
A stay at the Novotel Freiburg am Konzerthaus Hotel means you're always mere footsteps from the best shops, theaters, and attractions of Freiburg! With a short walk, you can explore the historic old town or find the perfect place to sip a coffee and plan your day. Unwind in the comfortable guestrooms, or pop down to the spa area for some deep relaxation. The hotel offers a restaurant with terrace and a modern bar.Â
Day 2. Freiburg
Take yourself through the city today to be enchanted by its treasures. You may enjoy a visit to the cathedral with its tower of Christianity or simply grab a pint and lose yourself in the atmosphere of this university city.Â
During the winter, the streets are studded with the stands merchants are preparing for the Christmas markets. Stroll through town to check out the live music, caroling, and to share your goodwill toward man.Â
Day 3. Freiburg – Strasbourg – Freiburg
This morning, you'll hop a train for Strasbourg - the capital of the Alcase region. Known as one of the most beautiful cities in Europe, the area is sure to charm even the most discerning of travelers. While here, you can visit it's Christmas market which has been held in Cathedral Square since 1570. Don't forget to stop by the stalls offering sweets, mulled wine, and cakes! Return to Freiburg by train this afternoon.
Round-trip rail between Freiburg and Strasbourg
Day 4. Freiburg – Zurich
After breakfast, you'll head to the train station for a ride to Zurich! Be sure to keep your eyes out the windows as you travel so you can drink in the scenic countryside. Once you've arrived in Zurich and checked into your hotel, the rest of the day is yours to spend however you wish.Â
Rail from Freiburg to Zurich
Check-in - Hotel Swissotel
The 4-star Swissotel Zurich is conveniently located opposite Oerlikon train station, and is ideally close to Zurich's business, culture, shopping and entertainment and just 5km from both Zurich Airport and the city centre. The 347 contemporary rooms and suites reflect an elegant & modern style, featuring panoramic views of Zurich and the Swiss Alps.
Day 5. Zurich – Lucerne – Zurich
Get ready for the ultimate Christmastime day trip! Begin the day in Zurich, where about 150 market houses wait to envelop you in the traditions of one of the largest covered Christmas markets in Europe. After, ride to Lucerne to discover one of the most popular destinations in Switzerland. Check out the famous covered bridges and baroque churches there before returning to Zurich.Â
Round-trip rail between Zurich and Constance
Day 6. Zurich – Constance – Zurich
Today, you'll travel by train to Constance in Germany. Located on the shores of the iconic Lake Constance, the city is home to the Christmas Market of Constanza. This impressive market sprawls from the historic city center to the port. After a day filled with Christmas trinkets, delicious food, and shopping, you'll return to Zurich for the night.
Round-trip rail between Zurich and Constance
Day 7. Depart Switzerland
After breakfast, you'll make your way to the Zurich airport and head home!Â