A Christmas Market Trifecta with Switzerland, Germany & France

Prepare to embark on a journey that will enrich your senses and captivate your heart amidst the magical Christmas season that starts the moment you land in Zürich, Switzerland. Begin your enchanting voyage from Zürich airport where the Swiss winterscape unfolds in all its breathtaking splendor on your way via train to Lucerne, then boat to the picturesque town of Weggis to your cozy hotel where comfort and elegance await. Later that evening, in a celebration fit for the holiday season, savor welcome cocktails that sparkle with holiday magic, and delight your palate with a sumptuous multi-course gourmet dinner crafted to perfection. Allow yourself to be seduced by the tantalizing aromas and flavors, as the warmth of the holiday spirit envelops you in its welcoming embrace, setting the stage for the extraordinary adventures that await you in the coming days. (D)

Start each day by enjoying a hearty breakfast while taking in the holiday ambience that surrounds you. Enjoy a variety of fresh fruits, yogurts, muesli, breads, pastries, a variety of cheeses and meats, along with cooked dishes. A selection of teas, coffee and juices are also available to help kickstart your morning and invigorate you for the adventures that lie ahead.

Christmas in Bern, Switzerland, is a magical experience that captivates visitors with its enchanting atmosphere. The medieval old town, a UNESCO World Heritage site, transforms into a winter wonderland adorned with twinkling lights and festive decorations. The air is filled with the enticing aroma of roasted chestnuts and mulled wine from the three Christmas markets, where artisans sell handmade crafts and local delicacies. The Bern Minster, a stunning Gothic cathedral, stands tall amidst the festivities, offering a serene backdrop to the cheerful hustle and bustle. Ice skating rinks and cozy cafes provide perfect spots to warm up and enjoy the season's delights. Bern's iconic sandstone buildings and quaint alleyways beckon, where grand monuments stand as testaments to an unparalleled past. Ready yourself for a picture-perfect selfie next to the magnificent Bundeshaus Parliament Building, where you will have a breathtaking backdrop of the Aare-Marzili River and the snowcapped Alps while enjoying the Star Market booths. It's a scene straight out of a holiday postcard before heading off to learn all about the famous Emmentaler Schaukäserei Dairy Farm.

End your day with a magical lakeside picnic, where excitement and joy linger in the air. Share captivating tales of your adventures while savoring sizzling Bratwurst and Cervelats over a crackling campfire. As you sip on spiced Swiss mulled wine, wrapped in cozy lambskins at the hotel's charming lakeside boathouse, let the soothing sound of water gently lapping against the shore and the twinkling starry sky above lull you into a state of pure relaxation, inviting you into a peaceful and restful night's sleep. (B, D, X)

Start each day by enjoying a hearty breakfast while taking in the holiday ambience that surrounds you. Enjoy a variety of fresh fruits, yogurts, muesli, breads, pastries, a variety of cheeses and meats, along with cooked dishes. A selection of teas, coffee and juices are also available to help kickstart your morning and invigorate you for the adventures that lie ahead.

Today you will be stepping into the enchanting world of Lucerne with a special Santa Claus-guided city tour, where history meets Christmas tradition as Santa will regale you about how Christmas has been celebrated throughout the years juxtaposed with tales of Lucerne's fascinating past and its rich cultural heritage. He continues with historical anecdotes of iconic landmarks such as the Chapel Bridge and the Lion Monument. Take time to enjoy the festive Christmas markets in Franziskanerplatz known to be the 'Home of Christmas' in Lucerne and become mesmerized by the flood of twinkling Christmas lights where you can sample traditional treats and admire handcrafted ornaments. Next, take a short jaunt toward the pier to "Vögeli-Gärtli where you will make your own personal candle from fragrant beeswax to help warm the holiday spirit within.

In the evening you will embark on a romantic journey on the unforgettable and historic stationary steamboat Wilhelm Tell, perfectly adorned in festive Christmas decor. Luxuriate in a sumptuous three-course dinner, followed by the pièce de resistance-Switzerland's decadent cheese fondue. Imagine being in the glow of the night as you dip into the bubbling pot of melted Swiss cheese, nestled inside this historical steamboat as you bask in the romance of the moment and the sound of Christmas carols ringing in the air from the twinkling shores of lovely Lucerne, you realize that the fantasy has truly begun. (B, T, D, X)

Start each day by enjoying a hearty breakfast while taking in the holiday ambience that surrounds you. Enjoy a variety of fresh fruits, yogurts, muesli, breads, pastries, a variety of cheeses and meats, along with cooked dishes. A selection of teas, coffee and juices are also available to help kickstart your morning and invigorate you for the adventures that lie ahead.

Today you will pack up your bags and be escorted to your next luxurious boutique property in the Black Forest of Germany. Enroute to your destination, you will journey through the enchanting streets of Zürich, where history blends seamlessly with the festive spirit of Christmas. Your guided walking tour promises to immerse you in the charm and beauty of the renowned Christmas markets as you traverse the cobblestone streets, among architectural marvels and iconic landmarks, all under a canopy of Christmas lights to brighten your day before your journey takes you to the breathtaking Schwarzwald region. The holistic pampering of the highly regarded Bio-und Wellness Alpenblick hotel is your haven of tranquility nestled amidst nature's embrace. Once you settled in, the choice is yours and promises to be nothing short of blissful journey of discovery. Either embark on a short, guided hike through the pristine landscape, bringing you up close and personal to the heart of nature's beauty, or luxuriate in the hotel's renowned wellness center, where you will melt into relaxation, refresh and rejuvenate until your heart desires…or until the dinner bell rings.

Your day will be capped off with an extraordinary gastronomical experience like no other as your host introduces you to the philosophy behind their organic cuisine. Discover the secrets of sustainable living and the art of harmonizing flavors with nature's bounty. From farm-fresh ingredients to innovative cooking techniques, every dish tells a story of passion and dedication to the earth. As the evening twilight unfolds, you'll be treated to a lavish four-course dinner, each course a masterpiece of culinary artistry, while being cradled by the warmth of new friendships and the joy of shared moments. (B, D, X)

Start your day with a hearty German breakfast that will tantalize your taste buds. Enjoy a variety of cold meats and cheeses, perfect for creating your own delicious combinations. Spread creamy butter on a fresh bread roll and top it with slices of meats, cheese, tomato and gherkins pickles. Be sure to try the famous Black Forest cured and smoked ham, Schwarzwälder Schinken, for a breakfast to remember throughout your day.

Get ready for an unforgettable day of adventure in the Black Forest and beyond starting out with a Cookie Baking Extravaganza with Host Ferdinand Thoma where you will learn the art of crafting delicious regional cookies while soaking in the warm hospitality. As a cherished memento, each person will receive a beautifully packaged box to safely transport their creations home, along with a stylish kitchen apron to treasure forever. The experience wouldn't be complete until you pair your cookie with a savory touch of hearty soup to complement your sweet delights. Next you will journey through the fairytale region of the enchanting Black Forest inside your cozy coach as you are whisked away to the dazzling Ravenna Gorge region where you will discover the most romantic and intimate Christmas markets yet. As you step into a world of magic, behold the magnificent stone viaduct towering above a snow-covered village, illuminated in a thousand dazzling lights. Feel the festive spirit come alive as a train rushes over the gorge in the distance, enveloped in a mist of red, blue, and green hues. Explore wooden stalls adorned with holiday treasures, from handcrafted goods to tantalizing Black Forest specialties, all offered with warmth and passion by local artisans.

As dusk sets, relax and reminisce about the day's adventures as you journey back to the cozy comforts of Hotel Alpenblick. Later in the evening you will feast on a truly unforgettable dining experience with an exquisite flaming meat delight. Savor the delectable liquor flavors as you are warmed inside and out amid the cozy confines of Hotel Alpenblick's restaurant as your day of enchantment concludes. Your dreams this evening are on the house! (B, T, L, D, X)

Start your day with a hearty German breakfast that will tantalize your taste buds. Enjoy a variety of cold meats and cheeses, perfect for creating your own delicious combinations. Spread creamy butter on a fresh bread roll and top it with slices of meats, cheese, tomato and gherkins pickles. Be sure to try the famous Black Forest cured and smoked ham, Schwarzwälder Schinken, for a breakfast to remember throughout your day.

Get ready for a full day of diverse culinary experiences, culminating in an unforgettable finale! Your private coach will whisk you away to the enchanting town of Colmar in Alsace, France. As you journey along the scenic Rhine, you'll be captivated by the beauty of the "Little Venice of Alsace," famous for its charming canals. Upon arrival in Colmar, you'll dive into a world of Alsatian culinary delights at the bustling market hall, where you can sample a variety of local specialties. Next, wander through the quaint alleyways to the renowned chocolate museum. Here, you'll meet talented chocolatiers, embark on a fascinating tour through the history of chocolate, and indulge in an "all you can eat" array of chocolate flavors. You can even create your own customized chocolate bar! Immerse yourself in the festive atmosphere as you explore stalls brimming with holiday treasures.

Then to put a little Christmas icing on this final night of your tour, you will cap off the evening at the esteemed Wistub Pfeffel for an authentic Alsatian gastronome dining experience. With every bite you will be tantalized with the array of local Alsatian specialties paired with a selection of typical Alsatian white wines, including Riesling and Gewürztraminer, as well as Crémant, the Alsatian rendition of champagne. Let your taste buds dance with delight as you sample the flavors of the region in this unforgettable, gourmet feast. (B, T, D, X)

Start your day with a hearty German breakfast that will tantalize your taste buds. Enjoy a variety of cold meats and cheeses, perfect for creating your own delicious combinations. Spread creamy butter on a fresh bread roll and top it with slices of meats, cheese, tomato and gherkins pickles. Be sure to try the famous Black Forest cured and smoked ham, Schwarzwälder Schinken, for a breakfast to remember throughout your day.

Your final day has come too soon, but it is time to pack your bags with a new appreciation for the Christmas Markets of Switzerland, Germany, and France, all offering unique flavors of their respective regions. You will end your culinary journey with a final train ride back to Zürich where you may wish to extend your stay. If you do wish to continue exploring Switzerland or other regions, please let your Culinary Travel Specialist know prior to your departure. (B)