Golden Eagle Danube Express: Christmas Markets of Central Europe (Munich - Budapest) (Tour code: 13633)

Arrivals day in Munich, where you will be met and transferred to the Charles Hotel, a Rocco Forte Hotel, for a two night stay in Munich. A Leading Hotel of the World, the Charles is centrally, yet quietly, located between the Karlsplatz and Königsplatz at the Old Botanical Garden within easy walking distance to many of the city’s key attractions.

Tonight, enjoy a Welcome Dinner in the elegant surroundings of this luxury hotel.

Electrified by the indescribable buzz of yuletide cheer, Christmas in Munich is truly magic. One of the most famous of all the city’s Christmas markets is located on Marienplatz in the heart of the city. This centuries-old market, which had its beginnings in the 1600s, is a fresh mix of old and new – keeping to older Bavarian traditions, with mouth-watering Brätwurst and freshly roasted chestnuts, presented alongside decadent sweet treats and intriguing electric creations. Watching over, a majestically illuminated Christmas tree casts a charismatic glow over the bustling square – perfectly adding to the festive feel.

Today will begin with a guided walking tour of this celebrated market before guests may choose to explore BMW World, a haven for automotive enthusiasts featuring BMW cars and immersive exhibition spaces dedicated to the world of motoring and company history. The day ends in Paulaner am Nockherberg, a legendary Bavarian beer hall and brewery renowned for its authentic hospitality. Here, a selection of Paulaner’s finest brews is complemented by traditional Bavarian delicacies, from freshly baked pretzels to hearty bratwurst. For those who prefer to soak in the festive ambiance at their own pace, there will also be an opportunity for leisurely shopping in Munich’s elegant boutiques.

Mid-morning, you will be transferred to Munich railway station to enjoy a drinks reception before boarding the Golden Eagle Danube Express. Marking the beginning of your voyage of a lifetime, a Bavarian inspired-Oompah brass band will perform as the train departs from the station, and cabin attendants will be there to escort you to your private ensuite cabin.

As the train weaves its way out of Munich, guests will have lunch in the Restaurant Car and enjoy the spectacular Bavarian scenery unfolding before your eyes as the train heads across the border into Austria for the first stop this afternoon in Salzburg.

Like a picture from the pages of a fairy-tale, Salzburg perfectly captures the charming cosiness of the festive season. The city sits snuggly in the northern foothills of the Alps, set against a backdrop of snow-capped peaks, cut in half by the curves of the Salzach River. The Christmas markets, Advent concerts and local traditions continue to charm visitors in the magical city of Mozart.

This afternoon explore the heart of the city, starting at Mirabell Palace.  Listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the baroque 17th century palace is easily one of the most stunning landmarks in the city and made famous in more modern times as a location used in The Sound of Music. A short distance from the palace on Market Square (Marketplatz) you will see the former Mozart Residence, now a museum. From here you will cross the Makartsteg bridge into the Old Town and walk along the Getreidegasse, Salzburg’s most famous street which is renowned for its wrought-iron trade signs and the birthplace of Mozart.

The rest of your evening in Salzburg will be spent at the Salzburger Christkindlmarkt, one of the most beautiful and oldest Christmas markets in the world, which is held on Domplatz and Residenzplatz. Its unique location in the middle of the World Heritage Old Town of Salzburg, the traditional stalls and its long history make the Salzburg Christmas market something very special. The Christkindlmarkt offers incomparable holiday ambiance – bells ring out from onion-domed churches, the scent of fresh pine mingles with the aroma of cinnamon-sprinkled mulled wine in the crisp winter air, and cheerful groups huddle around festive market stalls.

After a leisurely breakfast onboard the train, embark on a visit to the illustrious Fortress Hohensalzburg, one of the most iconic landmarks in Austria and a symbol of Salzburg’s rich medieval history. Perched majestically atop the Festungsberg hill, this formidable fortress has stood for over 900 years, a testament to the city’s power and prestige. Travel in style aboard the funicular, bypassing the traditional stairs, to reach this architectural marvel. During a guided tour, delve into the fortress’s fascinating past, from its role as a royal residence to its transformation into a military stronghold. You will also have time to explore at your own pace, taking in panoramic views of Salzburg and its surrounding alpine beauty. Afterward, enjoy a leisurely afternoon of free time in the centre of Salzburg, where you can stroll through its baroque streets, indulge in fine shopping, or simply relax in one of the city’s elegant cafés, soaking in the timeless charm of this UNESCO World Heritage destination.

A special highlight this afternoon onboard the Golden Eagle Danube Express as it traverses the Semmering Pass en-route to Vienna, a stunning feat of engineering with spectacular alpine views to be enjoyed with afternoon tea being served from the warmth of the Bar Lounge Car.

This evening, enjoy a private concert featuring the Vienna Supreme Orchestra.

A beautiful city to explore at any time of the year, but wintertime in Vienna is an extra special experience. Exquisitely illuminated with hanging lights of the Christmas markets, Vienna’s squares are brimming with culinary treats, handmade gifts, and quaint ornaments. Guests will explore this beautiful city, with a panoramic tour of the grand boulevard encircling Vienna’s historic quarters. From here you will enjoy a traditional ‘Fiaker’ (horse-drawn carriage) ride through the charming city streets, before sampling the traditional Pirker gingerbread in front of magnificent St Stephen’s.

Hofburg Palace has been the heart of power in Vienna since 1279, so naturally it is rich with history that can’t be experienced anywhere else. Once the Habsburg’s winter residence, this massive palace complex now serves as the workplace and home of the President of Austria.  During your visit, meet a choir that will provide a short concert of traditional Viennese Christmas folk songs.

After lunch, continue to the Schönbrunn Palace, with a tour included. The palace also provides the perfect backdrop for the Christmas Market and is perhaps the most classically stylish of all the Vienna markets. The exclusive assortment of booths includes traditional handicrafts, pretty Christmas decorations and toys. Sweet, spicy, and hearty temptations are waiting on every corner and enchant the huge square in front of the palace with enticing aromas.

This morning guests will visit the Museum of Fine Arts which is the largest art museum in Austria and located right in the heart of the city. Opened to the public in 1891, the main part of the museum’s collection is made up of artworks acquired by the Habsburg dynasty. You will also enjoy a trip to the Christmas market situated on Maria-Theresien Platz.

Guests will return to the train for lunch as the train winds through whimsical wintery landscapes of Hungary, before arriving at the final stop of Budapest. Here, you will stay for two nights at the Four Seasons Gresham Palace.

Budapest is an alliance of two cities separated by the Danube. The old city of Buda and the imposing Royal Palace, dominates the city with stunning views across the Danube to the commercial heart of Pest. The city tour includes the Royal Palace, St. Mathias Church, and a panoramic view of the city from Gellert Hill. You will also see the Citadel, the Opera House, St Stephen’s Cathedral, Heroes Square, and the City Park.

Enjoy the rest of the day at your leisure. Make sure to take the opportunity to stroll through the many Christmas Markets scattered around the city. You may want to visit the historic Great Market Hall with its endless variety of delicious foods and wines or warm up and head to one of the city’s famous thermal baths for a rejuvenating Christmas dip.

This evening, enjoy a Farewell Dinner and reflect on the memories made from this wonderful winter escapade across Central Europe.

Following breakfast in the hotel you will be transferred to the airport for onward departures.