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Visit some of the world's oldest Christmas markets on this fantastic journey to the southwest of Germany. We stay in Mannheim, home to a magnificent Baroque castle, beautiful art nouveau buildings, and an ensemble of markets surrounding the water tower. From here, we visit the small university city of Heidelberg and see its stunning architecture and fascinating castle, festively lit up at this time of year. We continue our historic journey to Mainz, with its Christmas markets dating back to 1788, making it one of the oldest in Germany. With time to discover Trier and the opportunity to visit Frankfurt also on offer, you don't want to miss out!
Don’t hesitate to get in touch – our friendly team are ready and waiting to help with any further information you need!
Please choose your preferred 6 day itinerary
Local departure by coach or Door-to-Door service, then to Belgium for an overnight stay.
This morning we depart Belgium and travel to Trier, Germany’s oldest city. Emperor Augustus founded Trier as a Roman colony in 16 B.C. It then became the favoured residence of several Roman emperors and was even known as ‘Roma Secunda’, the second Rome.
The Cathedral of Trier is one of the main sights of the city. It was originally built by Constantine the Great, the first Christian Roman Emperor. It is the oldest church in Germany and houses great works of art as well as the Holy Robe, a garment said to be worn by Jesus when he was crucified.
At Trier's markets, festively decorated wooden huts offer a wide range of Christmas articles, including decorations, wooden toys, candles, hand-blown glassware, ceramics, crafts and much more. There are also plenty of tasty treats available such as bratwurst sausages, potato pancakes, sweets, hot tea and glühwein to stave off the cold.
We then continue onto the city of Mannheim, our base for three nights.
Nestled between the Neckar River and the foothills of the Odenwald forest, the beautiful, small city of Heidelberg is home to stunning architecture, a great university, and fascinating castle. In the centre of the Old Town is the Marktplatz square, which boasts one of Heidelberg's many beautiful fountains, grand period houses, cafés and even more pretty little shops. It also home to numerous Christmas stalls!
The Christmas markets can also be found in the Universitätsplatz, with an antique carousel, mulled wine and bratwursts! Also, for those looking for a romantic setting, head to Karlsplatz to see one of the most beautiful ice rinks in Germany with an amazing backdrop of the world-famous castle ruins.
Includes Breakfast
Includes Dinner
Today, enjoy a free day in Mannheim to visit one of Germany’s oldest Christmas markets, attracting many thousands of visitors each year. The market extends around the iconic Mannheim Water Tower at Friedrichsplatz, a city landmark, which, along with other historic buildings, forms an impressive backdrop. The market stalls offer a wide variety of specialities including handmade arts and crafts as well as traditional German treats and drinks, from mulled wine and roasted almonds to a hearty bratwurst.
The markets located in Kapuzinerplanken that mostly offer handmade crafts and art, are perfect for a great souvenir or a Christmas present. Then, also in the Paradeplatz, there are tons of statues and electronics telling the classic fairy tales.
Alternatively, join our optional excursion to the historic city of Frankfurt and its popular Christmas market. Frankfurt itself is the largest financial centre in Europe and is often called ‘Mainhattan’ due to it being a high-powered finance and business hub on the banks of the Main River. Frankfurt is also home to one of the world’s largest stock exchanges and its airport is the third largest in Europe. Despite all of this, the centre of Frankfurt is charming and traditional, with half-timbered buildings and cosy taverns.
During this time of year, Frankfurt hosts one of the loveliest Christmas markets in Germany. The elaborately decorated stalls, huddled around the Römerberg and St. Pauls Square, make this a Christmas experience you’ll never forget.
Includes Breakfast
Includes Dinner
This morning, we depart Mannheim and head to Mainz to visit the Christmas markets. An annual highlight in the heart of the city of Mainz, its origins date back to 1788, making it one of the most historic Christmas markets in Germany.
Known for its vibrant history and cultural diversity, the city of Mainz provides the perfect backdrop with three main locations: the Marktplatz, Höfchen, and Liebfrauenplatz. Set in the historical scenery of the 1000-year-old Martin's Cathedral, the Christmas market creates a truly wonderful festive atmosphere. Take a walk through the inviting streets in the historic centre of Mainz, with its nicely decorated shops and boutiques, as a hundred stands illuminate the city across several streets and squares, with each area offering its own unique goods and attractions.
Afterwards, we continue to our overnight hotel in Belgium.
Includes Breakfast
Return home.
Includes Breakfast
Don’t hesitate to get in touch – our friendly team are ready and waiting to help with any further information you need!
You will stay for three nights at the 4-star Mercure Hotel Mannheim am Friedensplatz.
Overnight stays in Belgium will be in city-style hotels.
Mercure Mannheim am Friedensplatz is located a short distance from the inconic Water Tower and Luisenpark. The hotel offers 180 comfortable rooms, an elegant lobby bar, restaurant and sun terrace.
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Stylish and modern, state-of-the-art Luxuria is the business class of coaches. Boasting comfort of the highest standard, sink into the deluxe armchair-style seats, stretch out with much more space around you, and enjoy a vast choice of entertainment on your personal touch-screen TV.
Don’t hesitate to get in touch – our friendly team are ready and waiting to help with any further information you need!