German Christmas Markets
Tours / German Christmas Markets
Discover the magic of Germany’s Christmas season as you explore festive markets, historic towns, and cultural treasures, all glowing with holiday lights and traditions.
DATE
Nov 27 - Dec 6 2026
BOARD
3 Star Hotels
DURATION
10 Days
TRANSPORT
Cars, Trains, Buses
GROUP SIZE
6-10 People
ACTIVITY
Leisure
Tour Itinerary
DAY 1: Travel Day
International flights should be arranged to depart from the US on or before Friday, November 27th, 2026 to arrive at the Frankfurt International Airport by 10 am on the tour start date of Saturday, November 20th, 2026. Late arrivals will need to find their own way to the arranged hotel and may miss out on some tour activities. Discounts will not be provided for late arrivals. Early arrivals will need to secure any additional hotel nights and/or activities they wish to participate in prior to tour commencement.
DAY 2: Arrival in Frankfurt
Arrive in Frankfurt, where the Römerberg square hosts one of Germany’s oldest Christmas markets. Enjoy a stroll through the decorated old town before traveling in the evening to Heidelberg, a romantic city on the Neckar River. Settle in and prepare for your first full day of touring. Overnight in Heidelberg.
DAY 3: Heidelberg
Spend the day in Heidelberg, exploring the castle overlooking the Neckar River and walking across the Old Bridge into the historic old town. Stroll the lively market squares filled with wooden stalls, glowing lights, and the aroma of mulled wine. The festive atmosphere pairs beautifully with the city’s historic charm. Overnight in Strasbourg.
DAY 4: Strasbourg
Cross into France to discover Strasbourg, the “Capital of Christmas.” Wander its timber-framed old town and admire soaring Strasbourg Cathedral and wander the timber-framed old town while browsing markets that have enchanted visitors since 1570. The city glows with lights, garlands, and festive music throughout the season. Overnight in Strasbourg.
DAY 5: Colmar
Spend the day in Colmar, where canals and half-timbered houses create a fairytale backdrop. Enjoy the charm of Petite Venice. Colmar’s markets, spread across the old town, highlight Alsatian culture, crafts, and seasonal treats. Illuminated streets and squares add to the magic of the evening. Overnight in Strasbourg.
DAY 6: Baden-Baden & the Black Forest
Travel to Baden-Baden, known for its spa heritage, elegant avenues, and festive holiday decorations. Continue into the Black Forest, where villages host smaller markets framed by evergreen hillsides. This region offers a quieter, more intimate Christmas atmosphere. Overnight in Ludwigsburg.
DAY 7: Ludwigsburg & Esslingen
Visit Ludwigsburg, where a Baroque-inspired market glitters with angelic lights and elaborate stalls. Nearby Esslingen transforms into a medieval village with costumed performers, torchlight, and traditional crafts. Together they provide two of Germany’s most unique holiday experiences. Overnight in Ludwigsburg.
DAY 8: Schwäbisch Hall & Rothenburg
Explore Schwäbisch Hall, with its half-timbered houses and riverside charm. Continue to Rothenburg ob der Tauber, a beautifully preserved walled town where cobblestone streets and the famous Reiterlesmarkt feel like stepping into a Christmas postcard. Its medieval beauty makes it a highlight of the season, offering an unforgettable holiday atmosphere. Overnight in Rothenburg.
DAY 9: Würzburg
Conclude your journey in Würzburg, home to the Residenz Palace, Marienberg Fortress, and the historic Old Bridge lined with saints. The city’s Christmas market fills the square with stalls offering Franconian specialties and festive crafts. Enjoy a final evening of holiday lights and seasonal cheer, a perfect finale to your Christmas adventure. Overnight in Frankfurt.
DAY 10: Return Home
The tour concludes with hotel check-out by 11 a.m. Arrangements to the airport will be made for those leaving prior to 9 a.m. Early departures or later departures should plan their own transportation to the airport.
Tour Pricing And Payment Schedule
The German Christmas Markets tour scheduled for Nov/Dec 2026 will be $2,550 per person, based on double occupancy. A $100 discount is given for payment in full at initial deposit; otherwise, the following payment schedule applies per person:
Non-refundable deposit of $550 reserves spot - deposits made prior to Dec 31st, 2025 receive a $100 discount, making the deposit $450.
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Payment of $250 due on Dec 1st, 2025
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Payment of $250 due on Feb 1st, 2026
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Payment of $250 due on Apr 1st, 2026
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Payment of $250 due on Jun 1st, 2026
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Payment of $250 due on Aug 1st, 2026
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Payment of $250 due on Sept 1st, 2026
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Payment of $250 due on Oct 1st, 2026
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Final payment of $250 due on Nov 1st, 2026
If signing up after any deposit deadline, payment for any previous deposits will be due upon sign-up. Prompt payment is appreciated. Late payments are assessed a $25 late fee.
Only 1 discount on tour pricing is permissible. A discount of $100 is available to all those who place their deposit prior to December 31st, 2025. After December 31st, 2025, a $100 discount is available to all those who pay their full tour price at the time of their initial deposit.
Solo supplement (single occupancy hotel rooms): $800
Minimum Number of Participants: 6
Tour Inclusions and Exclusions
Included in the tour cost:
Pre-tour information, such as what to pack and how to exchange currency
Expertise of a tour guide throughout the tour
All sight-seeing and visits, as noted in the itinerary
All on-tour transportation, including trains, ferries, rental vehicles, and buses
One carry-on suitcase and one personal item due to space restraints in rental vehicles
All accommodations, based on double occupancy; typically, 3 star hotels
Not included in the tour cost:
International airfare and any related expenses
Travel insurance
Expenses due to flight delays, strikes, inclement weather or other irregularities
Passport fees, visas (including ETIAS for EU entry) and visa photos as required
Personal items such as souvenirs, laundry services, beverages, snacks, and healthcare
Optional excursions as indicated in the itinerary
Meals as indicated in the tour itinerary
Checked baggage fees and excess baggage charges
Seat requests and seat upgrades
Singular traveler supplement
Refunds for tour services not utilized
Other items not specifically mentioned as included
Tour Information
Terms and Conditions
Please thoroughly review the Terms and Conditions on our website. Submitting a deposit for services constitutes a contractual agreement with Aticus Travel and represents your acceptance of the Aticus Travel, LLC Terms & Conditions.
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Liability Waiver and Release Form
Please sign and return the Liability Waiver and Release Form for each tour participant. A parent or guardian must sign the form for any minor participants. A tour request is officially submitted when both the tour deposit and the Waiver and Release form are received by Aticus Travel, LLC for each tour participant.
Travel Insurance
Due to the strict cancellation policy, in order to protect your investment, and to provide you with peace of mind, we strongly recommend you purchase travel insurance. Many reputable companies exist and you can look into any of them, but here are a few recommendations to consider: Allianz Global Assistance, TravelEx, World Nomads and Travel Guard.
Packing Checklist and Tips
Please review the packing list for suggestions and tips on what to pack, how much you can take and what to leave at home.
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