Arrive at Munich Airport and take S-Bahn or taxi to central hotel to check in and drop bags; hotels typically allow check-in from 2:00–3:00PM. Use this time to rest and change for an evening stroll.
Visit Munich’s main Christmas market at Marienplatz (markets generally open ~10:00AM–9:00PM in December) to see the Rathaus and try Glühwein and local snacks amidst festive decorations.
Enjoy a traditional Bavarian meal and beer in Munich’s historic beer hall; open evenings, very lively during the season and ideal for a hearty first dinner.
See the iconic fairytale castle from outside and take the interior tour if available; ticket center open ~8:30/9:00AM–4:00PM in winter—book tickets in advance when possible.
Stroll through Mirabell and Salzburg’s historic Altstadt with baroque architecture; outdoor areas are open year-round and picturesque with winter decorations.
Arrive Strasbourg, check into a centrally located hotel, and take an evening walk to the cathedral area to see the markets lit up (markets usually open until 8:00–9:00PM).
Visit Notre-Dame de Strasbourg and climb (or take elevator where available) to the viewing platform for panoramic city views; cathedral and platform open from morning (~9:00–11:00 onward).
Take an approximately 1-hour Batorama basin boat tour to see the city from the river (seasonal schedules often run through December—check times, typically 10:00–16:00).
Spend the afternoon and early evening exploring Strasbourg’s main markets around Place Kléber and the Cathedral (markets typically 10:00–9:00PM; special themed markets may have later hours).
Stroll cobbled streets, see the Unterlinden Museum exterior and Little Venice canals; markets in Colmar typically open from mid-morning to early evening.
Short bus or guided transfer to Eguisheim (10–20 minutes) to see one of France’s most beautiful villages and sip local Alsace wines; shops and tasting rooms typically open until late afternoon.
Intercity train Strasbourg → Vienna usually takes ~7 hours with a change—book a direct/fast connection where possible and choose comfortable seats for the long ride.
Visit the iconic Vienna Christmas market at Rathausplatz (typically open 10:00–9:00PM) with festive lights, stalls, and an ice rink; great first-night introduction to Vienna’s holiday atmosphere.
Explore the medieval village, the blue church and, if conditions allow, a short climb to the castle ruins for sweeping views; castle access can be weather-dependent in winter.
Wander the compact Old Town, see Michael’s Gate and enjoy the Christmas market at Hlavné námestie (usually open ~10:00–20:00), sampling Slovak winter treats.
Walk up to Bratislava Castle for city and Danube views; castle grounds are open year-round and the museum has seasonal opening times (check before visiting).
Visit Schönbrunn Palace exterior and the adjacent Christmas market (market typically open ~10:00–8:00); palace tours run morning-to-afternoon—book palace tickets in advance if you plan an interior tour.