A Winter Wonderland: Christmas Markets and New Year in Central Europe
Experience the festive magic of Central Europe with this 17-day itinerary. From Munich’s enchanting Christmas markets to Prague’s unforgettable New Year’s celebrations, this journey is packed with winter charm.



Central Europe transforms into a magical wonderland during the holiday season, with twinkling lights, charming markets, and snow-covered landscapes. This 17-day itinerary takes you through the best Christmas markets, cultural landmarks, and festive celebrations in Germany, Austria, Slovakia, Hungary, and the Czech Republic. Here’s how to make your holiday season truly unforgettable.
Day-by-Day Itinerary
Day 1: Departure from Bangalore
- Travel: Flight departs Bangalore at 9:45 PM.
Day 2: Arrival in Munich, Germany
- Hotel: Hub by Premiere Inn, Munich (Book here).
- Activities:
- Visit Munich’s Christmas Market at Marienplatz.
- Take a walking tour of Munich’s Old Town.
Day 3: Day Trip to Salzburg, Austria
- Travel: Salzburg Sightseeing Day Tour from Munich (book tour here).
- Activities:
- Explore Salzburg’s Christmas Market.
- Visit Mozart’s birthplace and the Salzburg Cathedral.
Day 4: Day Trip to Neuschwanstein Castle
- Travel: Join a day tour to Neuschwanstein Castle and Linderhof Palace (reserve your spot).
- Activities:
- Enjoy Bavaria’s fairy-tale castles.
- Explore the surrounding winter landscapes.
Day 5: Explore Munich
- Activities:
- Visit the top landmarks in Munich, including the English Garden, Frauenkirche, and Viktualienmarkt.
Day 6: Nuremberg’s Christmas Market
- Travel: Take a guided day trip by train to Nuremberg (book here).
- Activities:
- Explore one of Europe’s oldest Christmas markets.
- Enjoy traditional treats like gingerbread and mulled wine.
Day 7: Arrival in Innsbruck, Austria
- Hotel: Centrally located hotel (Book here).
- Activities:
- Spend the day skiing or visiting the Swarovski Crystal World.
Day 8: Travel to Vienna, Austria
- Travel: Flix Bus to Vienna.
- Hotel: B&B Hotel Wien-Hbf (Book here).
- Activities:
- Stroll through Vienna’s Christmas Markets at Rathausplatz.
- Visit Belvedere Palace and St. Stephen’s Cathedral.
Day 9: Day Trip to Hallstatt
- Travel: Guided day trip to Hallstatt (book here).
- Activities:
- Enjoy the picturesque village with its salt mines and breathtaking views.
Day 10: Explore Vienna
- Activities:
- Dive into Vienna’s café culture with visits to iconic spots like Café Central.
- Explore the Hofburg Palace and the Museum Quarter.
Day 11: Bratislava, Slovakia
- Travel: Flix Bus from Vienna to Bratislava.
- Activities:
- Explore Bratislava’s Old Town.
- Visit Bratislava Castle and enjoy a traditional Slovak meal.
Day 12: Arrival in Budapest, Hungary
- Travel: Train to Budapest.
- Hotel: Centrally located hotel (Book here).
- Activities:
- Visit the Budapest Christmas Market.
- Take a night cruise on the Danube River for stunning views of the Parliament and Buda Castle (book here).
Day 13: Day Trip to Vienna
- Travel: Return to Vienna by train.
- Activities:
- Visit the Prater Ferris Wheel and relax before heading to Prague.
Day 14: New Year in Prague, Czech Republic
- Hotel: B&B Hotel Prague City (Book here).
- Activities:
- Celebrate New Year’s Eve at Old Town Square with fireworks and festivities.
- Explore Prague’s charming Christmas markets and iconic Charles Bridge.
Day 15: Explore Prague
- Activities:
- Visit the Prague Castle and St. Vitus Cathedral.
- Stroll through the Jewish Quarter and enjoy dinner at a local restaurant.
Day 16: Return to Munich
- Travel: Take the train back to Munich with Rail Ninja.
- Activities:
- Enjoy your final day in Munich with shopping or leisure.
Day 17: Flight Back to Bangalore
- Travel: Depart from Munich at 9:15 PM.
Affiliate Links for a Smooth Journey:
- Accommodations: Book cozy and centrally located stays in Munich, Vienna, Budapest, and Prague (find deals here).
- Day Trips: Explore iconic destinations like Neuschwanstein Castle and Hallstatt (reserve tours).
- Christmas Markets: Skip the crowds with guided tours to Europe’s top markets (book now).
- Transportation: Secure your train and bus tickets for seamless travel across countries (purchase tickets).
- Cruises: Celebrate the holidays with Danube River and Prague evening cruises (find cruises here).
To SUM UP:
Celebrate the festive season in the heart of Europe with this enchanting 17-day itinerary. From the twinkling lights of Christmas markets to the lively New Year’s Eve celebrations, this trip offers unforgettable memories for the holiday season.
Click here to start planning your Central Europe holiday today!