European Christmas Markets

Visit Christmas Markets Hand-Picked by BB Founder, Debra Shutt in Germany, Austria and Slovakia

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Experience a magical Christmas exploring the cities of Munich, Vienna, Salzburg and Bratislava filled with delicious food, holiday spirit and historic beauty
December 6-14, 2024
9 days / 8 nights

Overall Trip Highlights

Marienplatz, Munich: The heart of Munich since 1158, known for the Neues Rathaus (New Town Hall) and its famous Glockenspiel, which re-enacts stories from the 16th century.
Nymphenburg Palace, Munich: Built in 1664, this Baroque palace served as the main summer residence for the rulers of Bavaria, featuring stunning gardens and elaborate interior decoration.
Hohensalzburg Fortress, Salzburg: One of the largest medieval castles in Europe, dating back to 1077, offering panoramic views of Salzburg and the surrounding Alps.
Mozart’s Birthplace, Salzburg: A museum dedicated to Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart, showcasing artifacts and instruments from the life of the famous composer born here in 1756.
Hofburg Palace, Vienna: A former imperial winter residence of the Habsburg dynasty, now housing several museums, including the Imperial Apartments and the Sisi Museum.
St. Stephen’s Cathedral, Vienna: This Gothic cathedral, completed in 1160, is an iconic symbol of Vienna with its multi-colored tile roof and 137-meter-high south tower.
Schönbrunn Palace, Vienna: A UNESCO World Heritage site, this Baroque palace was the summer residence of the Habsburgs, featuring extensive gardens and the world’s oldest zoo.
Belvedere Palace, Vienna: A Baroque complex built in the 18th century, now housing the Österreichische Galerie Belvedere, which includes Gustav Klimt’s “The Kiss.”
Old Town, Bratislava: A pedestrian-only area with medieval and Gothic architecture, narrow winding streets, and landmarks such as Michael’s Gate and the Primate’s Palace.
Bratislava Castle: A landmark overlooking the city and the Danube River, with a history dating back to the 9th century, offering exhibits on Slovak history and culture.

December 6-14, 2024

9 Days/8 Nights

Group Size: 12 Guests
Your BB Hostesses: Ellen and Sharon

Single Occupancy	Double Occupancy
$7,990	$7,290
Private Room with Private Bath	Shared Room, Separate Beds, Shared Bath
Deposit Due at Time of Booking: $250 for Domestic/$500 for International	Deposit Due at Time of Booking: $250 for Domestic/$500 for International
Book Single Occupancy	Book Double Occupancy

Beatrice Bradley Experiences are All Inclusive. What does that mean?

Airport Group Transfers: Seamless airport pickups and drop-offs by our friendly hostesses, ensuring a smooth start and end to your adventure.
Dedicated BB Hostess: Travel with peace of mind knowing a dedicated Beatrice Bradley hostess will be with you throughout the trip, ensuring every aspect of your journey is unforgettable.
Full Dining: Enjoy 2-3 daily meals carefully selected to reflect the local cuisine, inclusive of all tips. Whether it’s a quick breakfast or a sumptuous dinner, we’ve got it all covered.
Unique Accommodations: Stay in boutique hotels or unique properties that are handpicked for their charm and comfort, providing an authentic and intimate experience.
Curated Activities: We find the BEST of the best tours. Making the absolute most out of our time.
Included Gratuities: Tips for tour guides, meals, and transportation are all taken care of. We ensure that those who make your trip special are rewarded, without you needing to worry about the details.
Transportation: All transportation is included throughout the experience, from airport pickup to your final drop-off.
You won’t see “Free Days” on our itineraries: Our trips are made for a balanced experience. We carve out time to bond, laugh, shop and explore but we will never just send you out on your own and say “good luck” we do everything together or smaller group breakouts.

With Beatrice Bradley, every detail is meticulously planned to ensure you have a memorable and carefree travel experience. Join us and discover the joy of true hassle-free travel!

We Offer Flex-Pay! What is that?

Flexible Payments at Your Fingertips: You can use your invoice to pay any amount you choose, as frequently as you wish, until the full payment deadline.

Want to make a payment? Click “Review and Pay” on your invoice whenever you’re ready.

Pay Your Way: You can adjust the payment amount by selecting “Edit Amount,” allowing you to manage your budget flexibly.

Final Countdown: Ensure everything is paid up 60 days prior to your trip for domestic and 90 days prior for international. Don’t worry, we’ll send you reminders! If there’s any remaining balance, we’ll automatically process it, allowing you to focus on the excitement of your upcoming adventure!

Arrival Information	Departing Information
Flying in and out of different airports Fly into Munich (MUC) and out of Vienna (VIE)	Flying in and out of different airports Fly into Munich (MUC) and out of Vienna (VIE)
December 6, 2024	December 14, 2025
Pick Up Times: Before 2:30 PM or come in a day early!	Drop off Times: anytime after 10AM

This trip is designed to be enjoyable and accessible for women aged 55 and older, with a moderate activity level. It includes walking tours through charming city streets, exploring historic sites, and visiting festive Christmas markets. The itinerary balances active sightseeing with ample time for relaxation and leisure, ensuring a comfortable and memorable experience for all participants.

As your hostesses, we understand that traveling solo can be intimidating, but rest assured, making you feel welcomed and comfortable is our top priority. Our experiences are designed for building new and lasting friendships in a warm and welcoming environment.

From the moment you arrive until we bid you farewell, we’ll be right by your side. We meticulously handle all the details and manage the logistics seamlessly behind the scenes, ensuring your journey is truly unique and worry-free. While we aren’t local experts or tour guides, we work with a network of local professionals carefully selected for each location to enrich your experience.

Read more about our Hostesses Here

Thinking about joining us?

If you’re on the fence or have any questions, we’re here to help. Simply fill out this form to get in touch. We can’t wait to assist you in planning an unforgettable adventure!

If you have any immediate questions, please feel free to get in touch: 763-864-8291 | Lindsay@bbgage.com

Ready to book? We’re happy to have you!

Book Here

Experience the European Christmas Markets with New Friends!

Every Beatrice Bradley trip is crafted to maximize the experiences had during the trip.
The itineraries are specially made to allow time for engaging in conversation and having belly laughs with a new friend. We hope that the activities and experiences may allow you to come out of your comfort zone and to try new or unique things.
These trips are made to replicate a ‘friends get-away trip’.

Day One: Welcome to Munich!

Step into the festive magic of Munich, where history and holiday cheer blend seamlessly. Our adventure kicks off with an exploration of Marienplatz, the heart of the city since 1158, renowned for its stunning Neues Rathaus and the enchanting Glockenspiel, which reenacts stories from the 16th century. After soaking in the medieval charm, we gather for a cozy welcome dinner, setting the perfect tone for the exciting days ahead.

Highlights

Arrival in Munich: Receive a warm welcome and transfer to a centrally located hotel.
Guided tour of Marienplatz: Explore Munich’s historic central square, founded in 1158.
Admire the Neues Rathaus: Marvel at the Gothic Revival architecture of the New Town Hall.
Watch the Glockenspiel: Enjoy the clockwork show depicting Bavarian history.
Stroll through festive streets: Immerse yourself in Munich’s holiday atmosphere.
Welcome dinner: Savor Bavarian cuisine and meet fellow travelers in a cozy setting.

Day Two: Munich Walking Tour and the First Christmas Market!

We begin our day with a delicious breakfast at the hotel, preparing for a full day in Munich. Our private guide will lead us on a fascinating 4-hour tour, exploring Munich’s 850-year-old historic beauty. We’ll see famous landmarks like the Bavarian Parliament, Deutsches Museum, the Royal Palace, and the Royal Opera House on the elegant Maximilian Street. The day culminates at Marienplatz, home to one of the world’s most famous Christmas Markets.

Highlights

Delicious Breakfast: Start the day with a freshly made breakfast at the hotel.
Guided Walking Tour: Enjoy a 4-hour private tour of Munich’s historic sites.
Bavarian Parliament: Learn about the seat of the state’s legislative power.
Deutsches Museum: Visit one of the world’s largest museums of science and technology.
Royal Palace: Explore the former royal residence of Bavarian monarchs.
Royal Opera House: Admire this historic venue on Maximilian Street.
Maximilian Street: Walk through this elegant boulevard lined with landmarks.
Medieval Town Gates: See the ancient entrances to the city.
Viktualienmarkt Christmas Market: Experience the vibrant market with festive stalls.
Marienplatz Christmas Market: Explore one of the most famous Christmas markets, believed to have started in the 14th century, with handmade souvenirs and delightful snacks.

Day Three: “Off-the-Beaten-Path” Munich Tour and Departure to Salzburg

Following another delicious breakfast at our hotel, we embark on our “off-the-beaten-path tour” of Munich, starting at Odeonsplatz, a beautiful square rich in history and architecture, including the Theatine Church and Feldherrnhalle. We then visit the stunning Asam Church, known for its intricate interior. Our tour concludes at Viktualienmarkt, Munich’s famous outdoor market, brimming with Christmas spirit. After some free time for shopping and photos, we head to Salzburg and check into our luxurious hotel for a two-night stay.

Highlights

Delicious Breakfast: Enjoy another freshly made breakfast at the hotel.
Odeonsplatz: Explore this large, breathtaking square with historical landmarks.
Theatine Church: Admire the beautiful Baroque architecture of this church.
Feldherrnhalle: Learn about this monumental loggia on Odeonsplatz.
Asam Church: Visit this small church with a stunningly intricate interior.
Viktualienmarkt: Experience Munich’s famous outdoor market in full Christmas spirit.
Free Time: Shop, explore, and take photos at Viktualienmarkt.
Departure to Salzburg: Travel to Salzburg for the next part of the adventure.
Check-in at Luxurious Hotel: Settle into our beautiful hotel for a two-night stay.

Day Four and Five: Christmas Tour and History in Salzburg

Good morning in Salzburg! After a delicious breakfast, we meet our private tour guide for an exciting tour of Christmas in Salzburg. We explore the historic city center, including the Medieval Fortress, Baroque Palaces, and Historic Churches. We visit Mozart’s birthplace and pass through the festival houses of the Salzburg Festival. At the famous Salzburg Christmas Market, we enjoy warm drinks, classic snacks, and memorable trinkets before returning to the hotel to relax and prepare for our journey to Vienna.

Highlights

Delicious Breakfast: Start the day with a freshly made breakfast at the hotel.
Private Tour: Discover Salzburg’s historic center with a knowledgeable guide.
Medieval Fortress: Explore the impressive fortress overlooking the city.
Baroque Palaces: Admire the beautiful architecture of Salzburg’s palaces.
Historic Churches: Visit significant churches with rich histories.
Mozart’s Birthplace: Learn about the life of the famous composer.
Festival Houses: Pass by the venues of the renowned Salzburg Festival.
Salzburg Christmas Market: Experience the festive market with its delightful stalls.
Warm Drinks and Snacks: Enjoy traditional treats at the market.
Relaxation: Return to the hotel to rest before the next day’s adventure.

Day Six: Sightseeing, Christmas Markets, and History Tour in Vienna

Good morning and welcome to Vienna! After a delicious, locally sourced breakfast at our waterfront hotel, we meet our private guide for an in-depth tour through downtown Vienna. We visit the famous State Opera House and St. Stephen’s Cathedral while strolling through the charming Kärntnerstrasse. Our tour continues along Ring Avenue, showcasing magnificent buildings such as the Museums of Fine Art and Natural History, the Parliament, and more. The highlight is a visit to Vienna’s famed Christmas markets, where we soak in the holiday spirit before returning to the hotel for dinner and relaxation.

Highlights

Delicious Breakfast: Enjoy a locally sourced breakfast at our waterfront hotel.
Private Tour: Explore downtown Vienna with a knowledgeable local guide.
State Opera House: Tour this world-famous opera house, which opened in 1869 with Mozart’s “Don Giovanni.”
St. Stephen’s Cathedral: Visit this iconic Gothic cathedral, with its multi-colored tile roof and the tallest tower in Vienna.
Kärntnerstrasse: Stroll through one of Vienna’s most charming streets, a major shopping avenue since the Roman times.
Ring Avenue: See magnificent buildings, including:
- Museums of Fine Art and Natural History: Opened in 1891, these museums house vast collections of art and natural specimens.
- The Parliament: Built in Greek Revival style in the 19th century, it’s the seat of the Austrian Parliament.
- The City Hall: A neo-Gothic building completed in 1883, it serves as the seat of the local government.
- The Burg Theater: Established in 1741, it’s one of the most important German-language theaters in the world.
- Neuer Market: A historic square known for its beautiful Donner Fountain.
- The Capuchin Monastery: Founded in 1618, it houses the Imperial Crypt, the final resting place of the Habsburg emperors.
Vienna Christmas Markets: Experience the festive atmosphere, traditional crafts, and delicious treats, with origins dating back to the Middle Ages.
Relaxation: Return to the hotel for dinner and have free time to explore Vienna.

Day Seven: Schonbrunn Palace & Vienna Woods Exploration

After a delicious breakfast at the hotel, we revisit the Christmas Markets for more shopping and photos. In the afternoon, we embark on a private tour of Vienna’s significant sites, starting with the Vienna Woods. Enjoy stunning views over the city and the Danube River from Kahlenberg. Next, we drive to the wine area of Grinzing to explore why Vienna is known as the ‘Wine-Growing Capital of the World.’ Finally, we tour the magnificent Schönbrunn Palace, the former summer royal residence, and its historic showrooms.

Highlights

Delicious Breakfast: Enjoy a hearty breakfast at the hotel.
Return to Christmas Markets: Shop and capture any missed photos from the previous day.
Private Tour: Explore the most significant sites around Vienna with a guide.
Vienna Woods: Discover the eastern foothills of the Alps with stunning city and Danube views from Kahlenberg.
Grinzing: Learn about Vienna’s wine heritage in this famous wine-growing area.
Schönbrunn Palace: Tour the magnificent former summer royal residence and its historic showrooms.

Day Eight: Christmas in Slovakia

After breakfast, we head to Bratislava, Slovakia, for a comprehensive city tour. We start in the Old Town, visiting the Opera House and the charming Main Square, adorned with holiday decorations. We then explore Primate’s Palace, pass through St. Michael’s Gate, and visit the musician’s quarter. The highlight is a visit to Bratislava’s Christmas Markets, where we enjoy local holiday traditions and treats. An early dinner at the market concludes our day before heading back to our Vienna airport hotel.

Highlights

Delicious Breakfast: Start the day with a hearty breakfast at the hotel.
Travel to Bratislava: A short one-hour journey to Slovakia’s capital.
Comprehensive City Tour: Explore Bratislava’s significant landmarks.
Old Town Walk: Visit the Opera House and the Main Square, beautifully decorated for Christmas.
Primate’s Palace: Tour the largest palace, seeing 17th-century royal English tapestries.
St. Michael’s Gate: Walk through this historic gateway.
Musician’s Quarter: Discover where famous composers lived and performed.
Bratislava Christmas Markets: Experience local holiday traditions, seasonal treats, and handcrafted gifts.
Early Dinner: Enjoy dinner at the festive market area.
Return to Vienna: Head back to the Vienna airport hotel to settle in for the night.

Day Nine: Departure Day

On our last day, we savor a final breakfast together, reminiscing about the unforgettable experiences and cherished memories made throughout our journey. We take last group photos, capturing the friendships formed during this magical trip. As we head to the Vienna airport by shuttle, we say heartfelt goodbyes to our new friends, knowing that the bonds created will last a lifetime. Our hearts full, we depart for the USA, taking with us the joy and warmth of this incredible adventure.

Highlights