Detailed Winter Europe Itinerary: From Frankfurt to Krakow with Castles, Christmas Markets & Concerts

Day 1: Arrival & Römerberg

Frankfurt, Germany on December 9, 2025

3:00pm

Arrive Frankfurt Airport

Arrive from Sydney; transfer to hotel and relax after the long flight.
0EUR, N/A

4:30pm

Walk Römerberg Square

Stroll the historic heart of Frankfurt, enjoying early Christmas decorations and festive atmosphere.
Free, 1h

6:00pm

Dinner at Apfelwein Wagner

Traditional Hessian cuisine and famous apple wine to start your trip warmly. Open until 11pm.
EUR30, 1h30m
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Day 2: Frankfurt Museums

Frankfurt, Germany on December 10, 2025

9:00am

Breakfast at Café Karin

Enjoy fresh pastries and coffee to kick off the day near the city centre. Open from 7am.
EUR15, 1h

10:00am

Städel Museum

Explore one of Germany’s top art museums, showcasing works from the Middle Ages to modern art. Open 10am-6pm.
EUR16, 2h

12:30pm

Lunch at Klosterhof

Traditional German cuisine in atmospheric setting by the cathedral. Open 11am-10pm.
EUR30, 1h30m

2:00pm

Palmengarten

Visit this beautiful botanical garden featuring tropical and seasonal plants with heated greenhouses open daily until 5pm.
EUR7, 2h

5:00pm

Evening Christmas Market

Return to Römerberg Market for mulled wine and festive treats before a relaxed night.
Free, 1h30m

7:00pm

Dinner at Main Tower Restaurant

Dine with panoramic views of Frankfurt skyline, open until 10pm.
EUR50, 1h30m
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Day 3: Cologne Day Trip

Cologne, Germany on December 11, 2025

8:00am

Business Class Train to Cologne

Travel in comfort via ICE train, a roughly 1h15m journey.
EUR60, 1h15m

9:30am

Cologne Cathedral

Gothic masterpiece and UNESCO World Heritage Site, climb the tower for city views. Open 9am-7pm.
EUR8, 1h30m

11:30am

Chocolate Museum

Indulge your senses learning about chocolate’s history and tasting samples. Opens 10am-6pm.
EUR13, 1h30m

1:00pm

Lunch at Früh am Dom

Traditional Kölsch beer and local dishes near the cathedral. Open 11am-10pm.
EUR25, 1h

2:30pm

Cologne Christmas Markets

Explore varied festive markets around the city including the Cathedral market. Open until 9pm.
Free, 3h

6:30pm

Return Train to Frankfurt

Evening journey back comfortably in business class.
EUR60, 1h15m
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Day 4: Frankfurt Leisure Day

Frankfurt, Germany on December 12, 2025

9:00am

Breakfast at Frankfurt am Main Centralstation Bakery

Enjoy a casual breakfast at station bakery with fresh breads and coffee. Open early.
EUR10, 1h

10:30am

Shopping on Zeil Street

Explore Frankfurt's main shopping street with boutiques, stores, and seasonal decorations.
Free, 2h

12:30pm

Lunch at Bistro Bar Central

Contemporary European bistro in central Frankfurt with great lunch options. Open 11am-3pm.
EUR25, 1h

2:00pm

Museum of Modern Art (MMK)

Admire curated modern and contemporary art collections. Open 10am-6pm.
EUR14, 2h

5:00pm

Relax at Bar Fahrgass

Unwind with drinks in the old town ambiance before dinner.
EUR20, 1h30m

7:00pm

Dinner at Suveng

Try Asian fusion with a German twist in a stylish setting. Open until 11pm.
EUR40, 1h30m
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Day 5: Train to Strasbourg

Frankfurt to Strasbourg on December 13, 2025

9:00am

Business Class Train to Strasbourg

Approximately 2h30m journey on high-speed train with scenic views along the Rhine.
EUR90, 2h30m

12:00pm

Check-in and Lunch at La Corde à Linge

Traditional Alsatian dishes in charming Petite France area. Open 12pm-2:30pm.
EUR30, 1h

2:00pm

Petite France district walk

Explore quaint canals and timber-framed houses in this UNESCO heritage quartier.
Free, 2h

4:30pm

Strasbourg Christmas Markets

Visit Place Broglie and Cathedral markets - one of Europe's biggest Christmas markets. Open 11am-8pm.
Free entry, 2h

7:00pm

Dinner at Au Brasseur

Enjoy local beers brewed onsite and classic Alsatian dishes. Open until 10pm.
EUR35, 1h30m
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Day 6: Colmar Day Trip

Colmar, France on December 14, 2025

8:00am

Train to Colmar

Short 30-minute business class train to famed fairy-tale town.
EUR25, 30m

8:45am

Colmar Christmas Markets & Old Town

Explore multiple Christmas markets and iconic half-timbered streets. Markets open 10am-7pm.
Free, 4h

12:30pm

Lunch at Wistub Brenner

Traditional Alsatian winstub serving choucroute and local wines. Opens noon.
EUR30, 1h30m

2:00pm

Return to Strasbourg

Relax on afternoon train back to Strasbourg.
EUR25, 30m

4:00pm

Evening leisure & markets

Final stroll through Strasbourg’s illuminated Christmas markets.
Free, 2h

7:00pm

Dinner at Le Tire-Bouchon

Cozy wine bar with refined Alsace cuisine. Open until 10pm.
EUR35, 1h30m
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Day 7: Strasbourg Leisure & Culture

Strasbourg, France on December 15, 2025

9:00am

Breakfast at Café Bretelles

Hip spot serving quality coffees and breakfast fare. Opens 8am.
EUR20, 1h

10:30am

Strasbourg Cathedral & Astronomical Clock

Visit the stunning Gothic cathedral and witness the Clock’s midday performance. Open 7am-7pm.
EUR5, 1h30m

12:30pm

Lunch at Maison Kammerzell

Historic restaurant with famous waffles and Alsatian dishes. Open noon to 3pm.
EUR35, 1h30m

2:00pm

Boat Tour of Strasbourg

Enjoy a scenic 70-minute boat cruise through canals and the Ill river. Departs until 4pm.
EUR15, 1h30m

4:00pm

Christmas Market revisit or relax

Final moments for souvenirs or mulled wine before dinner.
Free, 1h30m

6:00pm

Dinner at Les Haras Brasserie

Modern French dishes in stylish setting, plus great wine list. Open until 10pm.
EUR40, 1h30m
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Day 8: Train to Munich

Strasbourg to Munich, Germany on December 16, 2025

8:30am

Business Class Train to Munich

4h15m scenic train travel via Stuttgart, pre-booked business class seats.
EUR120, 4h15m

1:00pm

Check-in and lunch at Hofbräuhaus München

Munich’s iconic beer hall with traditional Bavarian fare. Open 9am-midnight.
EUR35, 1h30m

3:00pm

Marienplatz and Christmas Market

Explore Munich’s central square with festive market until 9pm daily.
Free, 2h

6:00pm

Dinner at Schneider Bräuhaus

Hearty Bavarian dishes paired with traditional beers, open till 11pm.
EUR35, 1h30m
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Day 9: Neuschwanstein & Linderhof

Munich day trip, Germany on December 17, 2025

7:00am

Guided Castle Tour

Luxury bus tour to fairy-tale Neuschwanstein and charming Linderhof castles, including skip-the-line tickets, 10h duration.
EUR150, 10h

6:00pm

Return and relax

Rest evening after castle tour.
Included, N/A

7:30pm

Dinner at Andechser am Dom

Traditional Bavarian in central Munich near Frauenkirche, open till 11pm.
EUR30, 1h30m
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Day 10: Munich Leisure

Munich, Germany on December 18, 2025

9:00am

Breakfast at Café Frischhut

Enjoy fresh pastries like Schmalznudel at this Munich favourite. Opens 8am.
EUR10, 1h

10:30am

BMW Museum or English Garden

Choose either guided BMW Museum or relaxing walk through the English Garden.
EUR10, 3h

1:30pm

Lunch at Viktualienmarkt

Sample local bites and fresh produce from stalls in this vibrant market. Most stalls open 10am-6pm.
EUR20, 1h

3:00pm

Deutsches Museum visit

Explore the world’s largest science and technology museum. Open 9am-5pm.
EUR15, 3h

6:30pm

Dinner at Restaurant Dallmayr

Upscale dining with Bavarian-French cuisine near the city centre. Reserve ahead.
EUR50, 1h30m
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Day 11: Rothenburg Day Trip

Rothenburg ob der Tauber, Germany on December 19, 2025

8:00am

Business Class Train to Rothenburg

Approx 2h15m with one connection to medieval town, pre-booked for group comfort.
EUR70, 2h15m

10:30am

Walking Tour & Christmas Village

Visit the famous Käthe Wohlfahrt Christmas Village and town highlights until 5pm.
EUR10, 3h

1:30pm

Lunch at Zur Höll

Historic tavern with Franconian specialities in cozy atmosphere.
EUR25, 1h

3:00pm

Return to Munich

Business class train back to Munich for comfortable rest.
EUR70, 2h15m

6:00pm

Dinner at Haxnbauer

Try the famous roasted pork knuckle at this classic Bavarian restaurant.
EUR30, 1h30m
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Day 12: Munich Leisure

Munich, Germany on December 20, 2025

9:00am

Breakfast at Rischart

Local favourite bakery and café in city center open early.
EUR10, 1h

10:00am

Nymphenburg Palace

Tour this stunning Baroque palace and gardens. Open 9am-4:30pm.
EUR15, 2h

1:00pm

Lunch at Café Lotti

Modern European food with casual, artsy vibe. Open noon-9pm.
EUR25, 1h

2:30pm

Shopping or museum time

Visit Pinakothek museums or shop for gifts downtown.
EUR15, 2h

6:00pm

Dinner at Tantris

Iconic fine dining in Munich, advanced booking essential.
EUR100, 2h
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Day 13: Train to Salzburg

Munich to Salzburg, Austria on December 21, 2025

10:00am

Business Class Train to Salzburg

Approx 1h30m journey with scenic views, very comfortable seats.
EUR50, 1h30m

12:00pm

Check-in and lunch at St. Peter Stiftskeller

Visit famous Europe’s oldest restaurant for classic regional cuisine. Open from 11:30am.
EUR40, 1h30m

2:00pm

Salzburg Christmas Markets

Wander the Cathedral and Residenzplatz markets. Open 10am-8pm.
Free, 2h

5:00pm

Mozart Museum or Fortress Visit

Visit Mozart’s birthplace or Hohensalzburg Fortress - opens until 5pm-6pm.
EUR15, 1h30m

7:00pm

Dinner at Zum fidelen Affen

Casual pub style with Austrian dishes, open until 10pm.
EUR30, 1h30m
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Day 14: Salzburg Leisure Day

Salzburg, Austria on December 22, 2025

9:00am

Breakfast at Café Tomaselli

Historic café serving Austrian pastries and coffee, opens 7am.
EUR20, 1h

10:30am

Mirabell Palace & Gardens

Visit romantic 17th-century palace and gardens, iconic Sound of Music spot.
Free, 1h

12:00pm

Lunch at Müllner Bräu

Traditional brewery restaurant with hearty Austrian menu. Open noon-4pm.
EUR30, 1h

1:30pm

Hellbrunn Palace and Trick Fountains

Explore grounds and enjoy festive decorations. Open 9am-4:30pm in winter.
EUR13, 2h

4:00pm

Shopping or stroll Old Town

Browse local shops or relax in the picturesque Altstadt.
Free, 1h30m

6:00pm

Dinner at Gasthaus Zwettler’s

Authentic Austrian dishes with homely atmosphere. Open till 10pm.
EUR30, 1h30m
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Day 15: Train to Vienna

Salzburg to Vienna, Austria on December 23, 2025

9:00am

Business Class Train to Vienna

About 2h45m journey in komfortabele Railjet business seating.
EUR60, 2h45m

12:00pm

Check-in and Lunch at Figlmüller

Renowned for their Wiener Schnitzel, near St. Stephen's Cathedral. Open 11am-11pm.
EUR40, 1h30m

2:00pm

Rathaus Christmas Market

Explore the grand festive market with ice rink, crafts, and treats. Open 10am-9pm.
Free, 2h

5:00pm

Evening Coffee & Cake at Café Central

Classic Viennese coffeehouse with historic atmosphere. Open until 7pm.
EUR15, 1h

7:00pm

Dinner at Steirereck

Upscale modern Austrian cuisine in Stadtpark, excellent prep for December festivities. Reservation needed.
EUR100, 2h
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Day 16: Vienna Sightseeing

Vienna, Austria on December 24, 2025

9:00am

Breakfast at Demel

Famous pastry shop and chocolaterie near the Hofburg Palace. Opens 8am.
EUR25, 1h

10:30am

Schonbrunn Palace Christmas Market

Visit beautiful palace and enjoy one of Vienna’s festive markets. Palace opens 8:30am-5pm, market 10am-6pm.
EUR22 entry palace, 3h

2:00pm

Vienna State Opera Tour

Guided tour of the iconic opera house, open 10am-5pm.
EUR9, 1h

3:30pm

Christmas Market at Belvedere Palace

Romantic afternoon market with crafts and hot drinks, open till 8pm.
Free, 2h

6:00pm

Dinner at Plutzer Bräu

Traditional Viennese pub cuisine in a cosy setting. Open to 10pm.
EUR35, 1h30m
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Day 17: Christmas Concert + Dinner

Vienna, Austria on December 25, 2025

12:00pm

Leisure Morning

Relax at hotel or walk Vienna’s festive streets; some shops closed on Christmas Day.
Free, N/A

3:00pm

Christmas Concert at St. Peter’s Church

Enjoy the traditional festive concert of classical music in stunning church setting. Duration approx. 1h30m.
EUR40, 1h30m

6:00pm

Dinner at Plachutta Wollzeile

Famous for Tafelspitz, elegant and warm atmosphere perfect for Christmas dinner. Open Christmas Day; booking essential.
EUR60, 1h30m
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Day 18: Vienna Leisure & Museums

Vienna, Austria on December 26, 2025

9:00am

Breakfast at Café Sperl

Traditional Viennese coffee house with authentic breakfast, opens 8am.
EUR20, 1h

10:30am

Kunsthistorisches Museum

Explore masterpieces from classical antiquity to Renaissance art. Open 10am-6pm.
EUR20, 3h

2:00pm

Lunch at Glacis Beisl

Hidden gem with wonderful seasonal Austrian food, open 12pm-3pm.
EUR35, 1h30m

4:00pm

Christmas Market revisit or local exploring

Final walks for gifts or treats in city centre markets.
Free, 2h

7:00pm

Dinner at Motto am Fluss

Trendy restaurant on the Danube Canal with creative cuisine. Open late.
EUR40, 1h30m
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Day 19: Train to Prague

Vienna to Prague, Czech Republic on December 27, 2025

9:00am

Business Class Train to Prague

Four hour journey in comfort through scenic countryside. Pre-booked seats.
EUR70, 4h

1:00pm

Check-in and Lunch at Lokál Dlouhááá

Popular Czech tavern with fresh Pilsner beer and classics. Open 11am-11pm.
EUR25, 1h30m

3:00pm

Old Town Square & Christmas Markets

Explore Prague’s main square with festive market open until 10pm.
Free, 3h

7:00pm

Dinner at Mlýnec

Upscale modern Czech cuisine overlooking Charles Bridge. Open until 11pm.
EUR50, 1h30m
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Day 20: Prague Exploration

Prague, Czech Republic on December 28, 2025

9:00am

Breakfast at Café Savoy

Elegant café offering Viennese-style breakfast. Opens 8am.
EUR20, 1h

10:30am

Prague Castle & St. Vitus Cathedral

Explore castle grounds, cathedral and Golden Lane. Open 9am-5pm.
EUR15, 3h

2:00pm

Lunch at Kuchyň

Casual dining with seasonal Czech dishes near castle. Open noon-8pm.
EUR30, 1h

3:30pm

Charles Bridge Walk & Kampa Island

Scenic stroll over historic bridge with great views and photos.
Free, 1h30m

6:00pm

Dinner at Eska

Modern Czech cuisine in hip setting, open till 10pm.
EUR40, 1h30m
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Day 21: More Prague & Markets

Prague, Czech Republic on December 29, 2025

9:00am

Breakfast at Můj šálek kávy

Trendy specialty coffee and light bites, opens 8am.
EUR15, 1h

10:30am

Jewish Quarter Tour

Visit synagogues and historic Jewish cemetery, open 9am-6pm.
EUR25, 2h

1:00pm

Lunch at V Kolkovně

Traditional Czech food with hearty portions, open 11am-11pm.
EUR25, 1h

3:00pm

National Gallery or Museum of Communism

Choice of art or recent history museum, both open till 6pm.
EUR12, 2h

6:30pm

Dinner at Café Imperial

Elegant setting with Austro-Hungarian inspired menu open till 10pm.
EUR40, 1h30m
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Day 22: Prague Leisure

Prague, Czech Republic on December 30, 2025

9:00am

Breakfast at Café Louvre

Historic café with classic breakfast and pastries. Opens 8am.
EUR20, 1h

10:30am

Vyšehrad Castle & Views

Less visited historic fortress with spectacular city views. Open daylight hours.
Free, 2h

1:00pm

Lunch at Lokál Hamburk

Casual spot for Czech comfort food with great beer selection. Open 11am-10pm.
EUR25, 1h

2:30pm

Shopping & Christmas Markets

Last chance for souvenirs at markets and shops around Old Town.
Free, 2h

6:30pm

Dinner at Kuchyň

Return to favourite spot for final dinner in Prague. Book ahead.
EUR35, 1h30m
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Day 23: Prague New Year’s Eve

Prague, Czech Republic on December 31, 2025

9:00am

Breakfast at Eska

Start the day with modern Czech breakfast options. Opens 8am.
EUR20, 1h

10:30am

Castle District Leisure

Explore gardens and relaxed walks to balance the day before evening celebrations.
Free, 3h

2:00pm

Lunch at Café Savoy

Enjoy refined Austrian food in elegant setting for lunch. Open noon-3pm.
EUR30, 1h30m

5:00pm

Return for New Year’s Eve preparations

Rest at hotel before night festivities. Many public celebrations or reserved dinners available.
Varies, N/A
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Day 24: Prague Recovery Day

Prague, Czech Republic on January 1, 2026

Late Morning

Brunch at Můj šálek kávy

Relaxed brunch with quality coffee after New Year celebrations.
EUR25, 1h30m

1:00pm

Vltava River Walk & Views

Gentle walks along riverside for fresh air and views of Charles Bridge.
Free, 2h

3:30pm

Optional Museum or Church Visit

Open but quieter day - choose Museum of Decorative Arts or St. Nicholas Church.
EUR10, 1h30m

6:00pm

Dinner at Lokal U Bílé Kuželky

Local Czech cuisine in historic tavern. Open until 10pm.
EUR30, 1h30m
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Day 25: Train to Krakow

Prague to Krakow, Poland on January 2, 2026

8:00am

Business Class Train to Krakow

Approx 7h train with change, booked business class for group comfort.
EUR90, 7h

3:30pm

Check-in and light dinner at Bar Mleczny Milkbar Tomasza

Experience traditional Polish dishes in casual setting to recover from travel.
EUR15, 1h
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Day 26: Auschwitz Day Trip

Krakow, Poland on January 3, 2026

7:30am

Guided Auschwitz-Birkenau Tour

Early departure for essential historical visit, including transport. Approx 6 hours.
EUR50, 6h

3:30pm

Return & Rest

Spend evening relaxing after emotionally intense visit.
Included, N/A

7:00pm

Dinner at Szara Gęś

Upscale dining in Old Town featuring Polish cuisine.
EUR40, 1h30m
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Day 27: Sleigh Ride & Krakow

Krakow, Poland on January 4, 2026

10:00am

Horse-Drawn Sleigh Ride

Scenic 2-3 hour winter sleigh ride through Krakow outskirts or nearby Tatra lowlands.
EUR40, 3h

2:00pm

Relax & Explore Local Cafés

Casual afternoon visiting Krakow’s cafes and cultural spots.
Free, 2h

6:30pm

Farewell Dinner at Wierzynek Restaurant

Historical venue offering royal Polish cuisine, perfect for group celebration.
EUR50, 2h
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Day 28: Krakow Leisure

Krakow, Poland on January 5, 2026

9:00am

Breakfast at Café Camelot

Charming café with rustic decor and extensive breakfast menu. Opens 8am.
EUR15, 1h

10:30am

Wawel Castle & Cathedral

Explore Krakow’s regal castle complex with art, architecture and royal tombs. Opens 9am-5pm.
EUR12, 3h

1:30pm

Lunch at Pod Wawelem

Robust Polish cuisine near castle, popular for authentic experience. Open noon-10pm.
EUR30, 1h

3:00pm

Kazimierz District Walk

Visit historic Jewish quarter with shops, cafés, and synagogues.
Free, 2h

6:00pm

Dinner at Restauracja Starka

Popular spot with modern Polish dishes in cozy setting.
EUR30, 1h30m
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Day 29: Departure

Krakow, Poland on January 6, 2026

Morning

Fly Krakow to Sydney

Transfer to airport for international flight home after an unforgettable winter European trip.
Booked, N/A
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