Festive 2025 tours available now!

German & Austrian Christmas Markets

Explore Europe's enchanting Christmas markets

Enjoy the festive atmosphere and the cultural wonders of this journey.

Imagine exploring Europe’s greatest and most nostalgic Christmas Markets, stirring in anticipation of the festivities ahead. Enjoy visits to Neuschwanstein Castle and the extravagant Linderhof Palace, take in the views from the summit of the massive Zugspitze and savour the warm, local hospitality.


  • Travel in a first-class air-conditioned touring coach

  • A complimentary wine, beer or soft drink with all included dinners Welcome drink in Frankfurt 17 meals including buffet breakfast daily (B) and 8 evening meals (D)

  • Hotel porterage of 1 bag per person (where available) 10 nights authentic, specially selected hotel accommodation Free WiFi at most hotels (where available)

  • ALL tips for your Tour Manager, Driver and Local Guides Local guides as described in the itinerary Fully escorted by our experienced Tour Manager

  • Explore 6 Christmas Markets in Rothenburg, Würzburg, Nürnberg, Innsbruck, Salzburg and Munich! ALL excursions, scenic drives, sightseeing and entrances as described

Tour itinerary

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Hand Selected Experiences

These are just a few of the very special hand selected experiences that will really make your touring experience exceptional and unique, and don’t forget, with Albatross they are always included.

Würzburg

Christmas Markets

'My Time' to explore the enchanting Christmas Markets in the Altstadt (old town) area of baroque Würzburg - the starting point of the 'Romantic Road'.

Rothenburg

Night Watchman Walking Tour

Take a torchlight Night Watchman walking tour through the beautifully preserved ramparts and winding streets of medieval Rothenburg

Nürnberg

Christmas Markets

Nürnberg boasts one of the most splendid Christmas Markets in Europe. A truly magical atmosphere where local choirs sing and the smell of mulled wine, roasting sausages, chestnuts and sweets fill the air.

Neuschwanstein Castle

Fairytale Castle of 'Mad' King Ludwig

Enjoy a guided tour inside the King’s apartments, staterooms, halls and throne room all reminiscent of a Wagner operatic saga. With its towers and turrets, the extraordinary, 19th century historic palace of 'Mad' King Ludwig encapsulates the very meaning of a 'fairytale' castle.

Zugspitze

Funicular Train & Cable Car

Funicular train from Garmisch-Partenkirchen to the mighty Zugspitze. Our first stop, Zugspitzeplatt station at an altitude of 2,600 metres. Continue by cable car to the summit of the Zugspitze mountain, Germany’s highest peak. At an altitude of nearly 3,000 metres there is a 360° panoramic view of more than 400 peaks in Austria, Italy, Switzerland and Germany.

Linderhof Palace

Guided Tour

We have included a guided tour of the extravagant French Rococo Palace, another of King Ludwig’s amazing creations.

Oberammergau Passion Play Theatre

Guided Tour

We visit the historic village of Oberammergau – famed for its ‘Passion Play’ performances which have been staged every 10 years since the 1600’s. We have included a guided visit to the Oberammergau Passion Play Theatre.

Salzburg

Walking Tour & Christmas Markets

Joined by a local guide, we explore Mozart's city of Salzburg, with its huge hilltop fortress, and the fabulous world class Christmas Markets in the beautiful, cobbled squares below.

Filzmoos

Horse Drawn Carriage Ride

We include a horse drawn carriage ride through this winter wonderland. Passing through the snowy woods, and surrounded by majestic mountains, we reach the remote Oberhofalm alpine hut which provides a perfect lunchtime stop

Dates and Prices

* Dates, prices, itineraries and hotels shown may be subject to change on specific departures. Please contact our European Tour Specialists for further details.

Pre-register your interest

To register your early interest in our 2026 festive and new year tours, please complete our pre-registration form.  We will keep you informed as our tours are developed and released.

Tour Connector

Extend your holiday by adding another amazing tour.

Pick your preferred tour departure and see all of the amazing tour experiences that may connect before or after your selected departure date. Our full range of tours maybe viewed in our Tour Finder or choose another date above.

Your Hotels

Tour Suitability

  • Our Christmas, New Year and Northern Lights tours travel throughout the European winter months. The weather can get cold, and roads and pathways can be slippery. When outdoors, please take extra care when navigating slippery surfaces.
  • We recommend sturdy waterproof shoes with good grip (hiking shoes, rather than sneakers), thick socks, a woollen beanie, thermal underclothes, gloves and sunglasses. Walking poles can be helpful to give you more confidence, if desired. Layering some light clothes is advisable, as you will often come in from the picturesque cold to warm spaces inside, so layering enables you to adjust to each environment for your optimal comfort. You will also be very comfortable when travelling as your modern touring coach is fitted with heaters and double glazed windows. Once you arrive at your hotel you will be greeted with a warm and comfortable atmosphere.
  • Thinking about what to wear? Please read our blog on Wardrobe essentials: https://www.albatrosstours.com.au/news-nest-travel-blog/wardrobe-essentials-for-a-winter-wonderland-tour-in-europe/

Please refer to our Tour Suitability section for more information.

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