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Majestic castles straight out of legends meet lively Christmas markets, this is a fairytale coming to life kind of trip. Scale towering cathedral spires and glide through fairy-tale waterways. Fill your soul with the warm spiced mulled wine under the frosty winter sky. Indulge in the ultimate holiday hunt of crispy waffles, creamy hot chocolate, golden ales, and hearty feasts. Add in the glow of festive decor and the hum of holiday joy, and there is a trip you simply can’t resist. One vacation, endless wonder, you simply have to go!
November to February
15 days
Food & Shopping, History & Architecture, Living Like a Local, Vibrant City Settings
Luxury boutique hotels
Live the local way by strolling through Jordaan and Nine Streets lined with boutique shops and chic cafes. Find hidden courtyards for a quiet moment or a dreamy photo. Slip into history at the tranquil Begijnhof, one of Amsterdam's oldest inner courtyards, dating back to the 14th century and once home to the city's Beguines, a Catholic sisterhood. And what’s Amsterdam without a bike ride? Pedal past the dreamy canals and watch the city come alive in its winter coat. Head to the Museumplein Christmas Market or the winter wonderland at RAI Winter Paradise for some holiday cheer. Expect dazzling lights, colourful decor, and that unmistakable festive buzz!
Andaz Amsterdam Prinsengracht
Let history speak to you at the Anne Frank House, a poignant museum preserving Anne's hiding place, showcasing her life and diary. Then get up close with the brushstrokes of a genius as art takes the stage at the Van Gogh Museum. Visit Rijksmuseum, home to over 8,000 objects of art and history, including Rembrandt’s The Night Watch and Vermeer’s The Milkmaid. Unwind at Vondelpark, Amsterdam’s beloved green oasis. Take a stroll or relax by the serene ponds. Keep the evening for a sunset luxury canal cruise, gliding through this dream-like setting! And wrap it up with a dinner at The Pantry, a classic Dutch restaurant.
Andaz Amsterdam Prinsengracht
This morning, hop on a train to the beautiful village of Zaanse Schans, known for its iconic windmills, charming wooden houses, traditional crafts, and rich Dutch heritage. Enjoy scenic views, explore museums, and savour local delicacies like cheese and stroopwafels. Make a trip to the Dam Square in the afternoon. Visit the Heineken Experience, not your average museum, it offers a bubbly mix of history, brewing secrets, and perfectly poured pints. For the grand finale, head to A’DAM Lookout. Sip cocktails with jaw-dropping views of Amsterdam’s skyline and if you're feeling daring, take on the Over the Edge Swing.
Andaz Amsterdam Prinsengracht
No better way to start your Belgian journey but the Grand Place. The beautiful site is decked in all things Christmas and the sound-and-light show here is a must-see. Don’t miss the stunning Brussels Town Hall, a Gothic masterpiece towering over the festive square. Then, step into the elegant Galeries Royales Saint-Hubert, Europe’s first shopping arcade. High-end boutiques, indulgent cafes, and a dash of old-world charm, what’s not to love? Head to the Museum of Natural Sciences, home to one of Europe’s most impressive dinosaur collections. Finally, satisfy your sweet tooth by going on a Belgian waffle and chocolate hunt at the Sablon district.
Juliana Hotel Brussels
Make a day trip to Antwerp and marvel at the Antwerp Centraal, perhaps the most beautiful train station in the world. Admire the grandeur of the Antwerp City Hall or the Stadhuis, a Renaissance beauty that dominates the square. Cultural enthusiasts would love the Plantin-Moretus Museum, it is an ode to the golden age of printing. Over at the Museum aan de Stroom, it’s a feast for the eyes with its fascinating exhibits under one striking roof. When the holiday mood kicks in, go to the Grote Markt Christmas Market and take in the festive vibe. Treat yourself to holiday delights and have some nighttime fun with mulled wine.
Juliana Hotel Brussels
The colourful gabled houses and the festive buzz at the Market Square will have you grinning in Bruges. Take on the Belfry of Bruges, also called the Belfort, a 366-step climb that rewards you with beautiful views. History buffs, the Provinciaal Hof is a must for some neo-Gothic charm. Then glide into tranquility on a private canal boat tour. Bruges’ waterways are the stuff of postcards! Visit the Basilica of the Holy Blood, a stunning chapel that holds a legendary relic. Wander through Burg Square and snap that perfect shot at the romantic Rozenhoedkaai. As the stars come out, settle into a cosy pub and sip on local brews like Brugse Zot or Straffe Hendrik.
Relais & Chateaux Hotel Heritage
Start at Cologne Cathedral or the Kolner Dom, a globally recognised Gothic marvel that’s impossible to miss. Feeling adventurous? Scale the South Tower for a panoramic view that’s all about cityscapes, the winding Rhine, and a little cardio payoff. Stroll across the Hohenzollern Bridge. Consider a visit to The Ludwig Museum for jaw-dropping modern art, with works by legends like Picasso and Warhol. Wander the cobbled lanes of Old Town, pop into a traditional Brauhaus, and sip on some local Kolsch beer. Let the holiday spirit take over at Heinzels Wintermaerchen Christmas Market, the city’s largest. Wrap up your day along the Rhine Promenade.
Excelsior Hotel Ernst
Welcome to a town straight out of a storybook! Stroll in Old Town and the city’s main street, lined with shops, cafes, and a lively buzz that’s hard to resist. For jaw-dropping views and a pinch-me moment visit the Philosopher's Walk. History buffs, don’t miss Heidelberg University, one of the oldest in Germany. Cosy up at a traditional tavern by the Neckar River and try regional delicacies like Sauerbraten, Wiener Schnitzel, and a dessert that dreams are made of - Apfelstrudel. By the evening, admire the stunning Heidelberg Cathedral a masterpiece of Gothic and Baroque architecture. Savour dinner at the DJNGL Fusion Kitchen to cap this beautiful day.
Heidelberg Suites House of Hutter
Drive into the fairytale charm of Rothenburg ob der Tauber, a perfectly preserved medieval wonder along Germany’s famous Romantic Road. Stroll along the town walls for panoramic views and explore the cobblestone streets lined with half-timbered houses. Visit the iconic Plonlein, a picturesque landmark perfect for photos, and step inside St. Jakob’s Church to admire its stunning wood-carved altarpiece. Enjoy a walk through the Burggarten for tranquil gardens and scenic views of the Tauber Valley and indulge in Rothenburg’s famous snowball pastry. In the evening, take the Night Watchman Tour for fun stories and town history.
Hotel Gotisches Haus
Hit the road and reach Dinkelsbuhl known for its half-timbered homes in a gorgeous setup. Wander the Weinmarkt, lined with charming shops, and marvel at the Gothic beauty of St. George’s Minster. Next, cruise to Augsburg, one of Germany’s oldest cities. Explore the Fuggerei, a true slice of living history, this housing complex has been home to residents since the 16th century. Then, let the festive vibes sweep you off your feet at the Christkindlesmarkt. With the illuminated Rathaus as a backdrop, this market dazzles. Don’t miss the Augsburg Angels Play, where performers light up the Town Hall windows in a magical display.
Hotel Maximilian’s
Start your day with a visit to the dreamlike Neuschwanstein Castle, a vision so enchanting it inspired Disney’s Sleeping Beauty Castle. Explore its grand interiors, fairy-tale towers, breathtaking alpine views, ornate Throne Room, and the enchanting Singers' Hall. Then, visit the nearby Hohenschwangau Castle, the childhood home of King Ludwig II, perched beautifully among the Bavarian Alps. For a moment of peace, stroll along the tranquil shores of Alpsee Lake. Framed by lush forests and dramatic mountain peaks, it's a photographer's dream! Have a delightful Bavarian-style meal at Madame Plusch in the charming town of Fussen.
Ameron Neuschwanstein Alpsee Resort & Spa
Cruise into your first stop, Marienplatz, the city’s historic centre. Snap a shot of the majestic New Town Hall, the Neues Rathaus and stick around for the delightful Glockenspiel show. Peek inside the iconic Frauenkirche and climb the south tower for panoramic views that stretch as far as the Alps on clear days. Hungry? Head to Viktualienmarkt for a hearty Bavarian foodie paradise, it also makes for a perfect gift-hunting spot. Next, lose yourself in the grandeur of Nymphenburg Palace, a baroque beauty with sprawling gardens. End the day at the English Garden, where you’ll find surfers braving the Eisbach Wave, even in winter - yes, it’s a whole thing!
Mandarin Oriental Munich
Gearheads, rejoice! BMW Welt and BMW Museum are your morning pit stops, showcasing cutting-edge designs and legendary cars. From there, head to the iconic Allianz Arena, a haven for football fans and an architectural marvel that lights up like a jewel in Munich’s skyline. It's time for some royal indulgence at the Residenz, the former palace of Bavarian monarchs. Wrap up your shopping at the Munich Christmas Market, the largest in the city, happening on the main square. End the Bavarian adventure at a traditional beer hall, like the iconic Hofbrauhaus and toast to a brilliant time spent in Munich!
Mandarin Oriental Munich
Explore the iconic landmarks of the German capital with a local guide. Stand beneath the imposing Brandenburg Gate, a symbol of unity and resilience. Snap photos of the historic Reichstag Building, its glass dome offering stunning views of the city. Pause for reflection at the Holocaust Memorial, its haunting design is an unforgettable tribute. Then, move on to the colourful, thought-provoking murals at the East Side Gallery, the longest preserved section of the Berlin Wall. Stop by Checkpoint Charlie, a reminder of the Cold War's tensions. Michelin-starred Restaurant Facil would be a great place to taste some creative dishes for dinner.
SO/ Berlin Das Stue
At the Museum Island, wander through world-class museums and the serene Lustgarten, then marvel at the majestic Berliner Dom. The domed beauty is a feast for the eyes, inside and out. Take a detour underground with Berlin Unterwelten, exploring the hidden bunkers and tunnels beneath the city. It’s a fascinating, lesser-known side of Berlin’s layered history. Shop till you drop at Kurfurstendamm, Berlin’s most famous shopping boulevard for luxury shopping. Wrap up the trip at the Charlottenburg Palace Christmas Market. Pair a warm mug of Gluhwein with the baroque palace’s illuminated facade and its holiday magic at its finest!
SO/ Berlin Das Stue
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