Cox & Kings
Vienna, Munich & Zurich by Rail
9-day rail journey from London to Vienna, Munich and Zurich
9 daysfrom $2,664
44% rail
Rail Escape
European Christmas Market Tour
Our European Christmas Market Tour through Zurich, Munich and Vienna invites you to enjoy the festive traditions with Rail Escape.
Day by day
- Day 1overnight: Zurich
Arrive in Zurich
Welcome to Zurich! After checking into your hotel for a three-night stay, take a leisurely stroll along the picturesque Bahnhofstrasse, Zurich's main shopping street, beautifully decorated for the holidays. In the evening, visit the enchanting Christkindlimarkt at Zurich Main Station, one of Europe's largest indoor Christmas markets. Enjoy the festive atmosphere, try some Swiss delicacies, and admire the giant Christmas tree adorned with nowadays thousands of giant Lindt chocolate baubles. [Night in Zurich]
- Day 2overnight: Zurich
Explore Zurich's Christmas Markets
Start with a visit to the Dörfli Christmas Market in the Old Town, where charming stalls offer handmade crafts and local treats. In the afternoon, you can explore the Wienachtsdorf Christmas Village at Sechseläutenplatz, enjoy ice skating, or simply relax at your hotel. If you wish, end the day at the Singing Christmas Tree market with its unique choir performances. The day is yours to enjoy at your own pace. [Night in Zurich]
- Day 3railovernight: Zurich
Day Trip to Einsiedeln
Take a short train ride to the town of Einsiedeln, famous for its Baroque monastery and charming Christmas market. Explore the market set against the stunning backdrop of the abbey, sample local specialties, and perhaps take a horse-drawn carriage ride through the snow-covered landscape. Return to Zurich in the evening for a final night in the city. [Night in Zurich]
- Day 4railovernight: Munich
Travel to Munich
After breakfast, check out of your Zurich hotel and catch a train to Munich. Upon arrival, check into your hotel for a two-night stay. Begin your Munich Christmas market experience at the famous Marienplatz Christmas Market in the heart of the city. Marvel at the towering Christmas tree in front of the New Town Hall and enjoy the festive sounds of alpine Christmas music. [Night in Munich]
- Day 5overnight: Munich
Munich Christmas Market Tour
Enjoy today exploring Munich's Christmas markets. You should start at the Medieval Christmas Market in Wittelsbacher Platz and then visit the prominent Residenz Christmas Village. In the afternoon, consider the international and eco-friendly Tollwood Winter Festival at Theresienwiese. You are free to choose between taking a break and enjoy your hotel or explore the city at your own pace but make sure to end the day at the magical Christmas Village in the Kaiserhof of the Residenz. [Night in Munich]
- Day 6railovernight: Vienna
Travel to Vienna
Check out of your Munich hotel and board a train to Vienna. Upon arrival, settle into your hotel for a two-night stay. Begin your Vienna Christmas market experience at the Viennese Dream Christmas Market in front of the City Hall (Rathausplatz). Admire the beautifully decorated City Hall park and enjoy ice skating on the romantic Ice Dream rink. [Night in Vienna]
- Day 7overnight: Vienna
Vienna Christmas Markets
Start your day at the charming Spittelberg Christmas Market, known for its bohemian atmosphere and unique handicrafts. You can then visit the opulent Christmas Village at Belvedere Palace, where you can enjoy stunning views of the baroque palace. In the afternoon, you might want to explore the Christmas Village at Maria-Theresien-Platz, set between the Museum of Natural History and the Museum of Art History. Make sure to end your tour at the magical Christmas Market at Schönbrunn Palace, enjoying the imperial backdrop and festive concerts. [Night in Vienna]
- Day 8
Depart Vienna
On your final morning, take a last stroll through Vienna's historic center, perhaps visiting the Advent Market at St. Stephen's Cathedral for some last-minute shopping. Bid farewell to the enchanting Christmas markets of Central Europe as you flight back home.
Included
- Welcome Package: Receive a personalized welcome package upon arrival, including travel essentials and detailed itinerary information to ensure a seamless start to your journey.
- First-Class Rail Travel: Experience the ultimate in comfort and style with first-class rail travel throughout your itinerary. Please note that some regional trains may only offer second-class seating.
- 4-Star Plus Hotel Accommodation: Enjoy luxurious 4-star-plus accommodations in all cities, conveniently located near train stations for easy access and maximum convenience.
- Daily Breakfast: Start each day with a delicious full breakfast, provided at all hotel accommodations, offering a variety of local and international options.
- Airport Transfers: Enjoy hassle-free airport transfers upon arrival and departure, ensuring a smooth and stress-free travel experience.
Not included
- International Airfare: Flights to and from Europe are not included in the package price. Rail Escape can offer an additional reservation of flights.
- Excursions Activities and Entrance Fees: Any tours, excursions, or activities are not included and may incur additional costs.
- Meals Beyond Breakfast: While a full breakfast is provided daily, lunch, dinner, and any additional meals or snacks are not included and are the guest’s responsibility.
- Local taxes or fees: The packages do not include additional local taxes or fees, such as hotel tourism taxes.
- Personal Expenses: Personal shopping, souvenirs, and additional hotel services (e.g., minibar, laundry, room service) are not covered.
- Tips and Gratuities: Gratuities for hotel staff, guides, and drivers are not included and are at the guest’s discretion.
- Local Transportation: Transportation within cities, such as taxis, buses, and subways, is not included.
