christmas tours europe

Deals of the Week   European Long Weekends   Up to 50% OFF

Christmas & New Year Tours & Trips in Europe

Imagine celebrating the festive season in Europe over Christmas and New Year's Eve! With 2258 Christmas and New Year adventures to choose from lasting 1 days up to 29 days, you're sure to find that enchanting Europe Christmas tour you have always dreamt of.

250+ Christmas & New Year tour packages in Europe with 12,348 reviews

• Christmas & New Year

The Great Adventure

I had a great time with this tour

• In-depth Cultural

Best of Central Europe

Great tour... cesky krumlov the best!, great suggestions by guide, great travellers!

Genuine Europe

Filipo and Gaitano were excellent guides. The itinerary was Ok in and Italy but not much in Paris and London

Balkan Discovery (4 Star Hotels)

excellent, highly recommended

• €150 deposit on some dates Some departure dates offer you the chance to book this tour with a lower deposit.

• Coach / Bus

European Cavalcade (End Paris, 18 Days)

It was FANTASTIC!! I would recommend this tour to anyone. We were so happy to have Steve as our tour guide.

• Train & Rail
• Sightseeing

Berlin to Venice (15 Days) (including Salzburg)

Tour from Athens to Dubrovnik or Split: 7 Balkan countries in 14 days

We were impressed with the punctuality and organization of our tour guides. You made our trip so much better than it would have been on our own. We really appreciated the tour guide too. They were informative and helpful in every instance.. Thank you

Best of Balkans (4 Star Hotels)

What an eye opening experience with the Best of Balkans 9 days!!! Our guide Simon, was amazing! He was like a fountain of knowledge about the Balkans! I had a wonderful time learning about the history, culture, religion and much more of these beautiful 7 countries, realising how strong these countries are in their own way! I will definitely share this amazing experience with my friends and family. Thank you Simon for sharing your passion with us and travel talk tours for organising such a great trip!

Tour from Athens to Belgrade: 7 Balkan countries in 14 days

Hey guys it was just perfect! Everything! From organization to beautiful places that we visited. I was all around the world but Albania is something else. Wine, sea, food, local people, history, cities - perfection! The places where we stayed were beautiful and clean and tour guide was lovely, talkative and kind. Recommendation to everybody!

Iberian Explorer (13 Days)

I found the travel director , this driver and all the specialist staff professional, friendly and helpful throughtout our trip

• Walking Adventure

European Inspiration (Start London, Classic, 19 Days)

• €100 deposit on some dates Some departure dates offer you the chance to book this tour with a lower deposit.

European Inspiration (Start Amsterdam, Classic, 19 Days)

I am satisfied with all the tour. The tour was so amazing. The tour guide (Bento) was so informative, helpful and efficient with everything. The couch driver (Greg) was so helpful with everything and feel safe as he has excellent driving skill with welcoming smile. I would say the tour was fabulous.

Italian Discovery

Nicely organized, bus is clean, hotels are good but small rooms, guide are top. Highly recommend.

Anatolian Civilizations | 10 Days

Very nice, time-efficient, safe, secure, good food. Favorite hotel, Iris in Canakkale, then Cave in Capadocia. It would be my favorite, but the electricity outlets were very deficient. I wish more information about hamams would have been given, perhaps make it an optional visit. I really regret having missed the experience.

Best of Turkey- 10 Days

We had an amazing guide for the majority of the trip Hatice . Nothing was too much trouble for her. Hatice was very knowledgeable & imparted information very well. Having a small group was a big plus. Hotels were of a high standard.

What people love about Christmas & New Year Tours in Europe

Eva and Rene were amazing tour guides. Disappointed that we didn't see the Eiffel Tower at night. Several times we were dropped in town at night with not enough time to get a meal before being taken to the hotel. Some hotels were out of town with nothing within walking distance. Thank you to Rene for arranging for a group of us to go to the Moulin Rouge.

To be honest, part of what made the trip fantastic was our group of 12- could not have had a better group to travel with- which is clearly luck, but a piece of our group being so cohesive was Nejca, our guide. She was perfect! Available but not pushy. Laid back, but willing to assert herself to make our experience the best. She made each person in the group feel special and appreciated. Thank you, Nejca! The itinerary was quite good as well. Although there were places I could have stayed for a day longer, I think it’s important to not stay too long and feel like time is wasted on a certain place on the tour. Transportation was efficient and Nejca did a great job getting us to our destinations easily and without rushing. Accommodations were very good- with the exception of Prague. Although our apartment was nice, it was clear that the residents of Prague feel that their space is being taken over by tourists- which is clearly true. I would have preferred to have stayed in a hotel in Prague-honestly, I would have paid more for it. Other than that, cannot day enough good things about the trip! Thank you!!

We had a great time. I am planning my next trip soon with tourradar. Your tour guides are fantastic, especially Gaetano, Filipo, and Lee

Travel Styles

• Best 3 Weeks Europe Itineraries 2024/2025 (with Reviews)
• 10 Best Luxury River Cruises & Lines 2022
• Hiking in Europe in February
• Hiking in Europe in January
• Hiking in Europe in March
• Hiking in Europe in April
• Hiking in Europe in May
• Hiking in Europe in June
• Hiking in Europe in July
• Hiking in Europe in August
• Hiking in Europe in September
• Hiking in Europe in October
• Hiking in Europe in December

You are using an outdated browser. Please upgrade your browser or activate Google Chrome Frame to improve your experience.

This site uses cookies. For more information, please see our cookie policy.

Mon - Fri: 7am - 5pm PST

Closed Sat & Sun

Contact us HERE

North America

Central & south america, south pacific.

• Middle East

Multi-Country Tours

Today's top trips, best of italy, european whirl, national park wonders.

Manage My Booking

• My GET Tour Log In
• Uniworld Express Check-In
• Travel Restrictions/Guidelines
• South America
• US & Canada
• Australia & New Zealand

Top Destinations

• Great Britain
• Switzerland

Collections

• Edinburgh Military Tattoo Tours
• Europe's Christmas Markets
• Multi-Country European Packages
• CostSaver Tours
• Insight Vacations Tours
• Trafalgar Tours
• Uniworld River Cruises
• Women-Only Tours

For more than 40 years, Grand European Travel has been providing a wonderfully simple, and genuinely personal, way to travel.

Meet Our Team

Our Travel Specialists make planning your trip fun and hassle free

Guided Vacations

Top 10 advantages of taking a guided tour

Guest Reviews

As you plan your trip read our unedited guest reviews

Travel Insurance

Protect your vacation with travel insurance.

Responsible Travel

Powered by our not-for-profit foundation, TreadRight

Experience Europe's Christmas Markets

Winter is a magical time of year to visit Europe. Christmas markets are a beloved part of holiday traditions in Europe. Picture market stalls filling medieval town squares in front of centuries-old churches and palaces. Local artisans sold their handcrafted goods—toys, ornaments, decorations, and sweets—and each city established unique traditions that captured the spirit of their people. Experience an authentic insider's view of centuries-old holiday markets and the seasonal festivities that surround Christmas. Our collection of European Christmas Market vacations takes you to the heart of the action, where alpine villages dazzle with twinkle lights, legendary cities celebrate in style, and Europe's time-honored traditions come to life. What are you waiting for? Reserve your European Christmas Markets vacation package today.

Europe's Christmas Market Tours & River Cruises

European Holiday Markets

Christmas Markets of Austria, Germany and Switzerland

Alpine Christmas Markets

Rhine Holiday Markets

German Christmas Markets

Christmas Markets of Poland, Prague and Germany

Christmas Markets of Austria and Bavaria

Christmas Markets of Germany

Winter Wonderland

Vienna at Christmas Time

The Austrian capital was one of the pioneers of the Christmas market tradition, holding its first event in 1298. Visitors today can enjoy any number of markets, including the Viennese Christmas Market—in front of city hall—and the market at Baroque Schönbrunn Palace, as well as shopping stalls in the historic Spittelberg District.

Christmas Markets in Zurich

With 150 stalls and operated completely indoors, a 50 foot Christmas tree adorned with Swarovski crystals welcomes visitors to Zurich as they arrive at the Main Train Station. With fruit cake, vendors from all over the world, and all kinds of other traditional Christmas cuisine, the air is filled with the scents and sounds of the holidays. Exhibitors compete for the honor of being named the “Most Beautiful Stall” at the market, ensuring that the entire venue is beautifully adorned. The Zurich market is the largest indoor market in Europe, making it the perfect escape for those blustery cold evenings.

Christmas in Munich

Stalls surround an impressive 85 foot Christmas tree in the German Capital. Here you’ll find children dressed as angels and learning to be the next generation of crafters inside the “Heavenly Workshop” in town hall. Musicians fill the air with festive music every Friday before Christmas as guests hop on the Christmas tram that parades them through the old city as they eat gingerbread cookies and sip hot spiced wine.

Prague for the Holidays

The abundant Gothic architecture provides a perfect backdrop to the Christmas scene you’ll find in Prague. The two most famous Christmas markets, held at Old Town Square and Wenceslas Square, are walking distance from each other. Wander among the traditional wooden huts to admire handmade wooden toys and jewelry, Czech marionettes, nativity scenes, and even a petting zoo. Prague also offers numerous culinary delights, including   klobása   (sausage), roasted ham,   Trdelník   (a rolled pastry),   Vosí Hnízda   (beehive cookies), and hot mulled wine

You Might Also Like

Top Outdoor Markets in the World

From London to Singapore, discover these 11 famous markets

Spring Tulip Celebrations in Holland & the Netherlands

Amsterdam Tulip Festival and Keukenhof Gardens

Easter Celebrations in Europe

Religious, traditional, unique, elaborate and unusual

London's Chelsea Flower Show

The ultimate plant-lover’s pilgrimage

Traditional British Christmas Cake

A rich fruit and nut cake 'fed' with brandy or whiskey

Find Your Perfect Destination

44 tours from $1,100.

Britain & Ireland

46 tours from $1,475.

Spain & Portugal

32 tours from $1,125.

29 tours from $2,099

10 tours from $2,138

United States

57 tours from $1,935.

9 tours from $3,784

12 tours from $3,175

Order Your Free Brochure

Sign up to order your FREE travel brochure subscription and get exclusive offers only available to our subscribers

Brochures can only be mailed to United States addresses. Please call us for assistance at 1-877-622-9109

Thanks for signing up to receive our latest brochure. As a subscriber, you'll be the first to receive our new brochures as they are released, plus great deals in your inbox.

Download Brochure

View brochure online.

Get $300 per couple Travel Credit toward your first trip when you sign up to our newsletter. *

Plus, receive travel inspiration, news and latest promotions.

You can unsubscribe at any time. Your Travel Credit will be sent by email.

Email Sign-up Travel Credit: Receive a $150 per person ($300 per couple) discount toward your first tour (operated by Trafalgar or Insight Vacations) when you sign up for GET emails; valid for each full-paying adult who signs up with a unique email address. Valid for new bookings only made from 01 January to December 31 2024 for travel from 01 January 2024 to 31 December 2025. Discount is not combinable with any other discount or offer, including GETAWAY Deals, Limited Time Offers, AARP member discount, Past Traveler Global Tour Rewards discount, Groups or Multiple Trip discounts. Offer cannot be booked online. GET reserves the right to validate bookings and will remove any additional offers added online that are not combinable. Other conditions may apply.

Get the Hottest Deals First!

European Christmas Markets

About this tour.

Set out on a grand holiday adventure through the winter wonderland of the Imperial Cities of Central Europe – Prague, Vienna and Budapest. Tour the magnificent Prague Castle and explore its famous Christmas market at the Old Town Square. Experience the world's oldest Christmas market. In Vienna learn the secrets of confectionary at a candy workshop, delight in the Baroque marvels of the Schönbrunn Palace and indulge in dinner at the famous Marchfelderhof. Travel via train from Vienna to Bratislava, Slovakia a historic gem. Experience the most famous Hungarian wine region visiting one of the best wine estates. Tour gorgeous Budapest, and explore its outdoor markets aglow with lights, where stalls of crafts and delicacies abound. Along the way, immerse yourself in festive Christmas markets, experience cultural traditions, sample local cuisine, and glimpse this region’s rich history.

Your Tour Includes

• 3 Handpicked Accommodations

Included Highlights

• Prague's Christmas Markets
• Prague Castle
• Choice on Tour: Vltava Boat Tour or Jewish Heritage Tour
• Dresden's Christmas Markets

Your Tour at a Glance

7 Breakfasts

Travel Style

Customize your tour.

Optional Excursions

Starting at $70.00

Activity Level

• Level This Tour

For specific details about this tour's activity level and other info to know before you book your trip, click here.

Extension Style

Travel styles, highlights and inclusions.

Must-See Inclusions:

• Visit the magnificent Schönbrunn Palace, a summer retreat of the Habsburg dynasty.

Discover Budapest’s iconic sights through the eyes of an expert.

Experience the world’s oldest Christmas market in lovely Dresden, Germany.

Cultural Experiences:

Tour the majestic Prague Castle.

Visit 5 different countries filled with the holiday spirit.

Be whisked by train from Vienna to Bratislava.

Culinary Inclusions:

Learn the secrets of Viennese confectionary during a candy making demonstration.

Dine at the famous Marchfelderhof, an iconic restaurant with a rich Viennese tradition.

Experience the most famous Hungarian wine region visiting one of the best wine estates.

• Vienna's Christmas Markets
• Schönbrunn Palace
• Viennese Candy Workshop
• Train Ride to Bratislava
• Wine Tasting and Dinner
• Budapest's Christmas Markets
• Matthias Church
• Fisherman's Bastion

Book with Confidence

* With Insurance Purchased

• *No Hassle Refunds
• Traveling Well Safety
• No booking fee, *no change fees
• Top Rated Travel Protection

Share This Tour

Looking to add your itinerary for friends and family? Share your Itinerary

Getting Prepared

Know before you go, travel tips, enhance your tour.

Pre and Post Night Stay

Unique Experience

Cultural Experiences

Enhance Your Trip

• Tour Extensions

Hotel-Up Hotel Budapest

Enjoy an evening full of music. A special orchestral event in a local venue sparks off a unique firework of the most beautiful compositions celebrating classical music in Vienna. The best-known compositions by Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart and Johann Strauss are joined by popular works by Antonio Vivaldi, Ludwig van Beethoven, Johannes Brahms and many more. Excellent musicians, opera singers and magical ballet dancers present an evening full of Viennese charm with beautiful waltzes, polkas and operetta melodies performed at their highest level.

Visit the magnificent Schönbrunn Palace, a summer retreat of the Habsburg dynasty.

Accommodations

K&k hotel central prague, intercontinental hotel wien, up hotel budapest, stay longer.

Post Night: Up Hotel Budapest From $100 per night

Need More Information?

We're here to help

Call us toll free at 800.340.5158

Related blog content, an alpine adventure with collette, my first guided tour with collette (i’m coming back for more), top 10 phrases to know for your next trip to sicily, get a taste of sicilian street food, the wines of sicily, greece: a foodie’s dream vacation, similar tours.

Magical Christmas Markets of Austria and Germany

Discover Switzerland, Austria & Bavaria

London & Paris

Spotlight on Paris

Alpine Lakes & Scenic Trains featuring a cruise on Lake Maggiore and scenic trains in Switzerland & Italy

Exploring the Alpine Countries Austria - Germany - Switzerland

Not seeing the date you want? We can help!

Call our Customer Care Team to inquire about dates beyond what's currently listed and to make an advanced reservation. You can find our full terms and conditions here .

Request a Quote

Please fill out the form below, and a Collette Expert will contact you shortly.

• Yes, I'm a Travel Professional
• Yes, I am working with a Travel Professional
• I am traveling with 8 or more travelers

Find a Travel Agency

Once you've found the perfect Collette tour, your local travel agent can assist you in making reservations. To find a preferred travel agent in your area, please enter your 5-digit zip code, then click Search.

Enter a Whole or Partial Zip Code

Please tell us everything, we want it all.

We really value your feedback, please be open an honest. Tell us where we can improve, how we can get better. This feedback is anonymous, but if you would like us to get in touch with you regarding an issue provide your email address as part of your feedback and we will get right back to you.

Talk to an Expert

View or download.

European Christmas Market Tours & Vacations

• Featured Tours
• Travel Agents

Customers rate Zicasso's travel referral service  5  on a scale of 1 to 5 based on  1534  reviews on Trustpilot

We match you with top tour companies that specialize in the trip you want,  whether it's a customized private tour or a group tour.

With dazzling light displays and a festive ambiance, traditional cuisine and charming customs, you can experience the grandeur of the winter season with a European Christmas Market Tour. The joyous traditions represent past and present heritage accentuated by crisp air, happy locals, celebrated chalets, and snowcapped cathedrals. Discover the best ways you can enjoy Europe’s Christmas Markets with the sample itineraries below.

Life-Enriching Travel In 3 Simple Steps

Trips curated by the world’s top destination experts

Concierge-level service leading up to and during your trip

Unique, exclusive experiences and insider access

Zicasso in the News

10  Day Custom Tour

Dynamic pricing from  $7,795

Your customizable 10-day Italy Christmas tour immerses you in Italian culture and illuminates the deep-rooted connection between ancient tradition and Christian heritage embodied in the art, architecture, cuisine, and customs. From a graceful Christmas tree contrasting the powerful Colosseum walls to the vibrant display of lights accentuating Nativity scenes decorating the streets of Florence, Italy provides a holiday season brimming with welcoming, cheerful ambiance for all to enjoy. 

11  Day Custom Tour

Dynamic pricing from  $5,715

Rings of holly decorate the doors as candles flicker in the windows, bringing in a traditional Irish Christmas. Gaelic heritage blends with Christian customs set against the backdrop of the majestic countryside during your custom tailored Christmas tour of the Republic of Ireland. The songs of carolers fill the vibrant markets of Galway. Historic pubs with roaring fires provide a welcoming atmosphere in Limerick. Strong ramparts continue to protect the grand castle of Dublin and captivating seaside villages stand beside stunning mountain slopes. The charms of Ireland enhance the seasonal spirit, making for an enchanting Christmas and an unforgettable New Year.

8  Day Custom Tour

Dynamic pricing from  $3,635

Picture the perfect Christmas scene: the air filled with the strains of your favorite carol and the silent dance of falling snow, the smells of hot cider and apple pie rising to your nose, the undeniable feeling of lightness and joy that heralds the coming of the season. If these are your Christmas memories, then this is your Christmas in England vacation.

Dynamic pricing from  $4,095

Germany is a reliable destination full of warm hospitality, and this 10-day tour of Frankfurt and Bavaria has been designed to immerse you in the country's many famous Christmas markets and welcoming culture. With the smell of mulled wine and pine shavings being your constant companion, you will experience a holiday like never before as you explore each destination and their distinctive take on the holiday season.

9  Day Custom Tour

Dynamic pricing from  $4,675

From the cozy charm of a Cotswolds farmhouse in the wintery countryside to the scarf-wearing and pint-hoisting hospitality of London, this 9-day tour of England at Christmas time will present you with an unforgettable experience of the holidays. England is an excellent choice of destinations no matter what time of year you visit, but nothing quite matches seeing this historic land during the peak of the holiday season.

Dynamic pricing from  $5,355

Bask in the ambiance of the North Pole with a Christmas in Scandinavia on an exclusive tour of Finland and Norway. Your 10-day Scandinavian excursion celebrates the fascinating winter around the Arctic Circle as it reveals an enchanting untamed landscape and marvelous myths that reflect the captivating countryside. Hunt for the dancing colors of the Northern Lights then call for Santa’s reindeer during a reindeer safari. Warm your hands around traditional mulled wine, visit bustling Christmas markets, search for giant king crabs in a Norwegian fjord, and ride a dogsled across Finnish Lapland for an unparalleled winter adventure in Finland and Norway.

Why Travelers Choose Us

Benefits of Using Zicasso

Dynamic pricing from  $3,115

Go beyond a Christmas of candy canes and sugar plum fairies, and experience the Three Wise Men parading down a Spanish street on camelback. The guardhouse at Park Guell resembles a gingerbread house topped with frosting. Crowds in a midnight square collectively eat grapes during the midnight bell chimes to bring in a sweet New Year. Christmas markets overtake open plazas framed by elegant palaces and children eagerly await holiday gifts. Your custom tailored 10-day Spain tour embodies the spirit of a Spanish Christmas, immersing you in festive celebrations and delectable cuisines between Thursday, December 29th and Sunday, January 8th, offering a new perspective on a classic tradition.

More Christmas Tours in Europe

Reviews of Zicasso's Referral Service

4.89 stars based on 9865 reviews.

Reviewed By  Bryan G.

Reviewed By  Tim C.

Reviewed By  Emma B.

Reviewed By  Alyson L.

Reviewed By  Mark G.

Reviewed By  Dennis C.

• Why travel with us
• Destinations
• News from the Nest
• Tour Finder

Festive Tours

Discover a better way to celebrate the Festive season in Europe. Albatross Tours were the first to offer Festive European Christmas experiences to our Australian and New Zealand travellers, we were the original, and we are incredibly proud that we are still the best. Each and every one of our European Christmas, New Year and Northern Lights tours are bursting with festive activities, adventures and exciting bucket list experiences. Join us by choosing from our incredible range of European festive tours that bring alive the nostalgia, joy and romance of this wonderful time of year.

Bohemian Christmas Markets

• Start: Berlin
• Ends: Munich
• Countries: Czech Republic, Germany

Enjoy traditional Christmas markets and embrace the festive spirit of the holiday season

Swiss Magical Christmas Markets

• Start: Zurich
• Ends: Zurich
• Countries: Switzerland

Experience superb scenery and big Alpine thrills

German & Austrian Christmas Markets

• Start: Frankfurt
• Countries: Germany, Austria

Enjoy the festive atmosphere and the cultural wonders of this journey.

Swiss Alpine Christmas Markets

• Start: Munich
• Ends: Milan
• Countries: Switzerland, Italy, Germany, Austria

Explore some of Switzerland's most delightful Christmas markets

Austrian Christmas Holiday

• Countries: Austria, Germany

Celebrate Christmas in a first class chalet style hotel in the enchanting Austrian Tyrol

Swiss Christmas Holiday

• Ends: Luzern

Stay in the world-renowned ski resort town of Wengen

German Christmas Holiday

• Countries: Germany

A perfect mix of medieval charm, enchanting Christmas Markets, historic castles, and picturesque landscapes

A Medieval Bohemian Christmas

• Countries: Czech Republic, Austria, Germany

Stay in the beautifully restored Hotel Ruze, a 500-year-old hotel in the heart of the medieval town of Cesky Krumlov

Austria, Slovenia & Christmas in Croatia

• Start: Vienna
• Ends: Venice
• Countries: Austria, Slovenia, Croatia

Amazing Christmas Markets, frozen waterfalls and a classic Christmas location

An Alpine Christmas Adventure

• Start: Milan
• Countries: France, Austria, Germany, Switzerland, Italy

Enjoy staying in world-class Alpine resorts and ride on the famous Glacier Express

Austrian White Christmas

Celebrate Christmas in a beautiful spa hotel located by the picturesque Lake Wolfgangsee

Bohemia and Christmas in the Tyrol

Celebrate Christmas in a first class chalet style hotel in the Austrian Tyrol

Christmas in the Austrian Tyrol

Explore the fairytale Neuschwanstein Castle and savour the glorious Christmas Markets of Salzburg and Innsbruck

Christmas in an Italian Castle

• Countries: Italy, Austria, Germany

Experience the stylish ski resort town of Cortina d'Ampezzo, located in the breathtaking Dolomites

Christmas in the Slovenian Alps

• Countries: Slovenia, Italy, Austria

A Christmas holiday filled with breathtaking views, charming cities, festive markets and staying in a centuries-old castle

Christmas in the Swiss Alps

• Countries: Switzerland, Germany

Board the famous Glacier Express for a scenic train journey through the Swiss Alps

German Fairytale Christmas

• Countries: Germany, Switzerland, Austria

Explore the Christmas Markets with delicious seasonal treats such as gingerbread and roasted chestnuts

Swiss Alps and Christmas in Bavaria

• Countries: Germany, Austria, Switzerland

Enjoy Christmas in the Bavarian Alps, visit fabulous Christmas Markets and see the famous Swarovski crystal covered Christmas tree.

Swiss Christmas in Grindelwald

Travel through stunning Swiss landscapes and enjoy the breathtaking beauty of the Swiss Alps

Swiss Christmas in Zermatt

• Countries: Switzerland, Austria

Experience a winter vacation in the Swiss Alps and Austrian Lakes District

New Year in the Bavarian Alps

• Countries: Germany, Switzerland

Experience the region's rich history and culture

New Year in Austria, Slovenia and CastelBrando

• Countries: Austria, Germany, Slovenia, Italy

Celebrate New Year in wonderful Salzburg, exciting Slovenia and stay in a centuries old castle

New Year in an Italian Castle

• Countries: Austria, Italy, Germany

Enjoy a diverse and enriching experience filled with memorable moments

New Year in an Italian Villa & Tuscany

• Countries: Italy

Experience Italy's rich heritage in Winter

Swiss New Year Adventure

• Start: Luzern

Explore the mighty mountains, towns, and villages of the Bernese Oberland

TTC family of brands

My Trafalgar

Destinations

Get Inspired

866 513 1995

Christmas Festivals

Top Christmas & Festival Tours

German Christmas Markets

8 Locations

8 Day German Christmas Market Tour from Frankfurt to Berlin

Save up to $600

Capitals of Scandinavia

5 Locations

4 Countries

10 Day Scandinavian Tour of Denmark, Norway, Sweden and Finland

Save up to $390

Colourful Trails of the Southwest

13 Locations

10 Day US National Park Tour of Arizona, Utah, Colorado and New Mexico

Save up to $689

Splendours of Japan

9 Locations

13 Day Japan Tour from Tokyo to Osaka via Hiroshima

Save up to $391

Colours of Rajasthan with Mumbai

15 Day India Tour from Delhi to Mumbai

Internal flights included

Tastes and Sounds of the South

10 Day USA Food and Music Tour of Nashville, Memphis & New Orleans

See All Christmas & Festivals Trips

Christmas and festival inspiration

Music festivals, spiritual celebrations & Christmas tours

The world is full of wonderful festivals and we’ll take you to some of the best. Join our Local Specialists and get under the skin of the most famous celebrations from Christmas in Europe to Holi in India.

Christmas in Europe

An enchanting winter wonderland awaits in Europe with our Christmas travel experiences. Indulge in mulled wine and gingerbread as you wander the city squares, Christmas stalls and magical fairy lights. See handcrafted toys, hear joyful carols and discover old-world traditions. From Dresden's Striezelmarkt to Vienna’s Christkindlmarkt, this will be your best Christmas vacation yet.

Colorful festivals in Asia

You’re never too far away from a festival in Asia, with a calendar packed with spiritual events. We’ll meet local families in India who will show you how to perform the puja sacred ritual of Diwali, or celebrate Holi by throwing bright powder. In Japan, we’ll experience the ancient Takayama Festival and admire the beautifully carved floats that date back to the 17th century.

Party in the USA

The United States loves to celebrate and you’ll find a wonderful variety of festivals across the country. We’ll take you to Albuquerque to see the spectacular Balloon Fiesta, where hundreds of hot air balloons take to the sky. If you’re in the mood for some music, head to New Orleans for their annual Jazz Festival that celebrates the music and culture of the Southwest.

All you need to know about Christmas Festivals

How do they celebrate christmas in europe.

Christmas is celebrated differently all over Europe, from the traditional Christmas Eve feast in France to the arrival of Sinterklaas in the Netherlands on December 5th. Other popular Christmas traditions include the Queen of Lights festival on December 13th in Norway and St Nicholas Day on December 6th in Germany.

Where is the best place in Europe to spend Christmas?

The best places in Europe for a Christmas vacation are Austria, Germany, Switzerland and Russia. You’ll find enchanting Christmas markets, magical fairy lights, delicious festive food, a blanket of snow, and plenty of Yuletide cheer. Enjoy a mug of mulled wine, go shopping for handmade crafts, and keep watch for Santa Claus.

What are the best European festivals?

Europe is known for its incredible festivals, full of music, food and drink, and old-world traditions. Some of the best European festivals include the Christmas markets of Germany, Switzerland and Austria, St. Patrick’s Day in Ireland, and the Carnival of Venice in Italy.

Where is the best place to go for Christmas markets?

Our Christmas market breaks take you to the best places to experience the beautiful Christmas markets including Austria, Germany, Switzerland and Russia. The cities with our favorite Christmas markets include Vienna in Austria, Dresden and Munich in Germany, Lucerne in Switzerland, and Moscow in Russia.

View All Ways To Go

Request a quote

Request a brochure

Get expert help booking your vacation

Get a brochure delivered to your door, making travel more affordable for you.

Order Yours Today

See All Deals

Get your free brochure

Find your next escape with the world's leading travel brand

Request A Brochure

Award winning tours

Every year, we're proud to win some of the most prestigious travel accolades around the world - from the Travel Globes to the Agent's Choice Awards

Search Our Tours

Help & Info

WE MAKE TRAVEL MATTER®

Unedited Reviews

Our Destination Management Companies

Frequently Asked Questions

Travel Updates

Media & Press Room

Do Not Sell or Share My Personal Information

Travel Planning

Get Your Free Brochure

Travel Insurance

Booking Conditions

Trip Deposit Level

Recommendations

Trafalgar is a proud member of  The Travel Corporation  family of companies.

#SimplyTrafalgar

Selected Region

United States

United Kingdom

New Zealand

South Africa

Copyright 2024 Trafalgar. All rights reserved.

Terms and Conditions

Privacy Policy

Cookie Policy

• Search Please fill out this field.
• Manage Your Subscription
• Give a Gift Subscription
• Sweepstakes

Holiday Travel

• July 4th Travel
• Christmas Travel
• Memorial Day
• New Year's Travel
• Presidents Day
• Thanksgiving Travel
• Valentines Day

Europe Christmas Market Tours

Our selection of christmas market tours.

Christmas in Central Europe

German Christmas Markets

Alpine Christmas Market Tour

Christmas Markets of Croatia, Slovenia and Austria

Luxury Christmas Market Tour

About Europe Christmas Market Tours

Welcome to a world where  the spirit of Christmas  comes alive in every street. At Europe Christmas Market Tours, we offer you an extraordinary festive experience. Our tours are designed to capture the essence of  Europe’s most iconic Christmas markets , from the aroma of mulled wine to the sound of carolers filling the air.

What Sets Us Apart?

• Personalized experience : Our guided tours are capped at just 8 participants, ensuring a highly personalized experience led by guides who are regional experts, offering you insider access and local insights you won’t find elsewhere.
• We take care of everything : Say goodbye to the hassle of booking accommodations and arranging transfers. Our packages are designed to let you focus on the joy of the season while we handle the logistics.
• 24/7 Client Support : Our commitment to your satisfaction doesn’t end when you book your tour. We’re available around the clock to assist you with any queries or needs you may have during your journey.

When you book with us, you’re investing in a seamless experience. We take care of everything, from your  accommodations in cozy hotels  that exude local charm to your transfers between cities and attractions.

For those who enjoy the camaraderie of like-minded travelers, our  small group tours  offer a sense of community and shared excitement. If you prefer a more independent journey, our self-guided tours provide  the freedom to explore at your own pace , with the peace of mind that we’re just a phone call away.

From the moment you inquire to the time you return home, we’re here to make your Christmas market tours truly magical.

Top Cities to Visit on Your Europe Christmas Tours

Set out on a journey through Europe’s most captivating Christmas markets. Each destination offers its own  unique blend of tradition, culture, and festive spirit . Here are the top cities to include in your Christmas market tour.

Vienna’s Christmas markets are  a spectacle of elegance and tradition . The city’s historic squares transform into winter wonderlands, complete with ornate decorations and a wide array of handcrafted gifts.

The Bavarian capital offers a quintessential  German Christmas experience . The city’s main market,  Marienplatz , is a hub of festive activities, featuring wooden stalls filled with traditional Bavarian crafts and treats.

3. Bratislava

Bratislava’s Christmas market is  a   festive fusion of tradition and charm . Nestled in the heart of the Old Town, the market offers a cozy atmosphere where you can indulge in  Slovak delicacies  and shop for artisanal crafts, all while enjoying the city’s historic ambiance.

4. Innsbruck

Nestled in  the heart of the Alps , Innsbruck’s Christmas markets offer a unique mountain backdrop. The markets here are famous for their  Tyrolean   handicrafts  and the magical  Golden   Roof  that overlooks the main market.

5. Salzburg

Salzburg , the birthplace of  Mozart , hosts Christmas markets that are as melodious as they are beautiful. The city’s markets are  known for their high-quality ornaments , traditional Austrian foods, and the sweet sounds of Christmas carols.

Why Visit Christmas Markets in Europe?

European Christmas markets  offer a unique holiday experience steeped in tradition and cultural richness. These festive hubs are immersive events that capture the season’s spirit. As you wander through markets set in historic squares, you’ll find handcrafted gifts, seasonal treats, and local crafts that reflect each city’s  unique heritage .

The atmosphere is filled with the  scents of mulled wine  and roasted chestnuts, and the sounds of carolers and laughter. It’s a sensory feast that allows you to experience the holidays in a way that’s  deeply rooted in local customs , making it  a must-visit  for anyone looking to celebrate the season to its fullest.

HASSLE-FREE

Unbeatable support, book with confidence, completely customizable, things to know.

On our tours, we want to adjust for your needs as much as possible. The place of your stay depends on your preferences, budget and hotels’ availability, especially if we travel during peak season. But don’t worry about it! We will inform you in advance of all the details.

It’s important to be aware that accommodations at the destinations are in high demand during the festive season. To secure your preferred type of housing, we strongly recommend booking early. By doing so, you increase the likelihood of obtaining the accommodation that best suits your preferences. While the availability of specific lodging options may vary, we assure you that we will make every effort to provide you with the most suitable accommodations based on your preferences. Our team is dedicated to ensuring your stay is comfortable and enjoyable, and we strive to meet your specific requirements to the best of our ability.

Everyone has different preferences, that is why we have decided to give you a free hand in choosing restaurants, this way everyone can eat what they want. We can recommend some places to you, and if you would like to eat at a particular restaurant, we can make a reservation for you – just let us know. One thing is for sure – you will not go hungry!

Yes, absolutely. We’re very flexible, and we understand that as the weeks go by you might come up with new ideas. So, depending on availability, we’d love to add in any new experiences that you might want to try!

Of course! Your interests are paramount to us. Whether you are a foodie looking to delve into each country’s kitchen, or a history buff eager to explore Europe’s timeless treasures, we’ve got you covered.

We work with a selection of activity providers that offer unique and authentic experiences, ensuring that they are the best representatives of the region you visit.

We’re passionate about ensuring your Europe Christmas market tour is nothing less than perfect. We offer round-the-clock support, reachable by phone or email, to resolve any issues or inquiries that may arise during your stay. No matter the time of day, we are here to provide instant assistance to make sure your experience is seamless.

To start planning your dream Christmas escape, begin by sharing your desires with us via our inquiry form. After that, you can also book a call with our travel agent to discuss these in more detail. Our agent will then craft a bespoke itinerary, tailored to your unique desires. We welcome your feedback and will fine-tune the proposal to ensure it’s the perfect fit for you. This meticulous planning process ensures we create the perfect holiday that exceeds your expectations.

• Terms of Service
• Cookie Policy
• Sustainability
• Climate Emergency

This website uses cookies.

Cookie Settings

Choose which cookies you want to allow. You can change these settings at any time.

These cookies are essential for the website to function and cannot be switched off.

We use these cookies to analyze how our visitors use the website and monitor site performance.

These cookies are used to personalize ads and content based on your interests.

Part of the TTC Family of Brands

GET A QUOTE

DESTINATIONS

WAYS TO TRAVEL

SPECIAL OFFERS

1 888 680 1241

Christmas Markets of Central Europe

6 Independent Reviews

Classic Group

Reserve with a deposit starting from $200

See Dates & Rates

DATES & PRICING

TOUR HIGHLIGHTS

5 countries

Europe’s Christmas Markets Shine Bright: A 13-Day Guided Tour of Austria, Slovakia & Germany

Add some one-of-a-kind gems to your gift list at the Christmas markets in Vienna, Munich and Ljubljana. This 13-day Christmas shopping extravaganza takes in the 500-year-old Salzburg Christmas Market, Mozart’s family home and a mouthwatering array of Viennese desserts. Visit Neuschwanstein Castle in Bavaria, reputed to have been the inspiration for a certain spin off at Disneyworld, and dine out in Vienna with lashings of Austrian specialties filling the table at a Restaurant Dinner. In Ljubljana, follow your Travel Director on an eye-opening tour of the Slovenian capital before tasting some truly scrumptious, Slovenian Christmas delicacies. From Zagreb take a funicular to the idyllic town of Gornji Grad and board a cave train in Postojna to explore a stunning underground world.

View Itinerary

Low deposit from $200

Deposit protection

Free booking changes

MAP & ITINERARY

Start Zagreb, Croatia. End Munich, Germany.

Download Itinerary

Print Itinerary

EXPAND ALL DAYS

TRAVELING IN A GROUP OF 10+?

Customize this tour for a group >

Our specialists can design a bespoke itinerary for you. You'll experience the Insight Difference with a passionate Travel Director, all tailored to your group's personal interests. 

MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experiences

Every one of our tours includes at least one conscious travel experience that supports one or more of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGS). Look out for yours within the day-by-day trip itinerary.

Find out more

Net-zero by 2050

Travel knowing our 4-point climate action plan will ensure net-zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2050.

Support Local

Your tour directly supports local communities by visiting family-run businesses, UNSECO sites and places of cultural significance.

Sustainable Practices

Every part of our business, from trip design to how we run our offices, aligns to our 5-year sustainability strategy which ensures a positive impact on people, the planet and wildlife.

Philanthropic Efforts

Our not-for-profit, the TreadRight Foundation, invests in nature-based solutions to address climate change.

You’ll make a positive impact to people, planet and wildlife on this tour

SEARCH FOR ANOTHER TOUR

#insightvacations.

Discover Inspiring, Magical Moments Captured by Our Guests in Destinations Around the World

EXPLORE WITH INSIGHT

UK and Ireland

USA and Canada

Latin America

North Africa

TOUR STYLES

Discovery Journeys

Regional Journeys

Country Roads

Domestic Escapes

Special Interest Tours

Get A Quote

Request A Brochure

Travel Insurance

The Insightful Blog

Privacy Policy

Booking Conditions

Tour Deposit Level

Travel Updates

My Personal Information

Do Not Sell or Share My Personal Information

Selected Region

United States

United Kingdom

New Zealand

South Africa

© Insight Vacations 2024. All Rights Reserved.

Cookie Policy

Moscow Tours & Travel Packages 2024/2025

Our 63 most popular moscow trips. compare tour itineraries from 45 tour companies. 308 reviews. 4.7/5 avg rating., popular moscow tours.

St Petersburg & Moscow in Style - Winter

• Explore the majestic St Petersburg & Moscow on private city tours
• Admire the rich Russian history, art and architecture
• Travel to Moscow on a highspeed train
• Enjoy the local cuisine in stylish restaurants

Golden Ring of Russia

Lower Volga Voyage

• Visit magnificent Red Square and Kremlin and examine the collection at theKremlin’s State Armory.
• Experience Russia’s diverse musical traditions at lively folk music performances
• Explore Volgograd, the site of the decisive battle of World War II’s eastern front

Best of Russia

Volga Dream Russian River Cruise

Highlights of Russia

St Petersburg & Moscow in Style - Summer

White Russian - 7 days

• Discover Moscow's UNESCO-listed Red Square, home to spectacular St Basil’s Cathedral, Lenin's Mausoleum and the historic GUM Department store
• Explore the grounds of Moscow's mighty Kremlin, with its numerous governmentbuildings, gold-domed cathedrals and the giant tsar bell
• Celebrate New Year's Eve in Moscow!
• Take in the highlights of St Petersburg including a guided tour of the exquisite Church on Spilled Blood, Peter & Paul Fortress and Cathedral
• Take a guided tour of the remarkable Hermitage Museum at the Winter Palace

All Moscow , expedition cruises, self guided adventures and vacation packages. Find the best guided and expert planned vacation and holiday packages. Read more about Moscow

Small Group Moscow Tours

Vodka Shot - 6 days

• Explore the beautiful city of St Petersburg, including the exquisite Church on Spilled Blood, Peter & Paul Fortress and Nevsky Prospekt
• Marvel at the dazzling array of art and exhibits in the world-famous Hermitage Museum, at the Winter Palace in St Petersburg
• Discover a lavish residence of the tsars on a day trip to Catherine Palace at Tsarkoe Selo (winter: mid-October to April) or Peterhof Palace and gardens (summer: May to mid-October)
• Take in the highlights of the capital on a walking tour, visiting Moscow's famous Red Square, home to the historic GUM Department Store, Lenin’s Mausoleum and spectacular St Basil’s Cathedral
• Take a guided tour of the Moscow Kremlin, Russia’s political power house. Stroll around the grounds of this fortified complex, visit the Kremlin's cathedrals and see the mighty Tsar Bell

Route of the Romanovs - 10 days

• Learn about the last days of the Romanovs in Yekaterinburg, visiting the sites where Tsar Nicolas II and his family were assassinated and buried
• Straddle two continents at the famous obelisk Europe/Asia border marker in Yekaterinburg
• Experience the Trans-Siberian railway on an overnight train journey from Moscow to Yekaterinburg

New Year's in Moscow - 9 days

• Visit Catherine Palace at Tsarkoe Selo on Christmas Day and marvel at the incredible Amber Room
• Spend a night in Novgorod, an ancient city by the Volkhov River - explore the kremlin, cathedral and other sights and enjoy a traditional Russian banya (sauna)

Back in the USSR - 7 days

Russian Revolution - 9 days

• Visit historic Novgorod, an ancient city which straddles the Volkhov River. Explore the attractive riverside kremlin and experience a traditional Russian banya (sauna)

The Snowball - 6 days

• Visit Catherine Palace at Tsarkoe Selo and marvel at the incredible Amber Room

Mood for Moscow - 4 days

• Head underground to visit a Stalinist-era Soviet Bunker on an optional excursion
• Stroll to the vibrant Izmailovo Market, which lies behind the walls of an ancient Kremlin, and shop for an array of souvenirs

Best Moscow Tours by Duration

Tours, Cruises & Private Trips

Best Moscow Tours by Price

Top Moscow Attractions & Experiences

Moscow Tours & Travel Guide

Moscow Attractions & Landmarks Guide

Moscow reviews & ratings, capitals of the north.

some hotels could have been better

It was jam packed with every place I wanted to go and see. I especially love my photo of us setting out on the night time river cruise in St Petersburg and the Peter...

I really did not buy much and what I did buy was small gifts for others .

Johanna-Marie

Good hotels, some better than others. Interesting itinerary

Too rushed. Optional tour rather too short

See all Moscow reviews

Moscow Tours FAQ

1. Does Travelstride have all the tour operators?

2. How does the Member Savings program save me money?

3. Can I trust the tour operator and trip reviews on Travelstride?

4. What does ‘Stride Preferred’ mean?

You are using an outdated browser. Please upgrade your browser .

• Moscow Tours

Our 20 Best Moscow Tours of 2022

Join us on an unforgettable tour to Moscow, the capital of Russia. Imagine visiting Red Square, St. Basil’s the Kremlin and more. Moscow is one of Europe’s most vibrant cities and one of Russia’s most historical. All of our tours to Moscow are fully customizable and can be adjusted to fit any budget. Our most popular tours are listed below. Please click on the tour details to learn more or contact us for more information about our Moscow tours using the form at the side of the page. You can also schedule a call with one of our Russian travel specialists to learn more.

Classic Moscow

This is our most popular Moscow tour that includes all the most prominent sights. You will become acquainted with ancient Russia in the Kremlin, admire Russian art in the Tretyakov Gallery, listen to street musicians as you stroll along the Old Arbat street, and learn about Soviet times on the Moscow Metro tour.

Accommodation

PRIVATE TOUR

A Week in Moscow

This tour is a perfect choice for those who wish to get to know Moscow in depth. One of the highlights of this package is the KGB history tour which gives an interesting perspective on the Cold War. You will also have time for exploring the city on your own or doing extra sightseeing.

Weekend in Moscow

This tour is a great way to get acquainted with the capital of Russia if you are short of time. You will see all the main attractions of the city, the most important of which is the Kremlin - the heart of Russia. The tour starts on Friday and can be combined with a business trip.

Group Tour Moscow Break by Intourist

Russia's capital has so much to offer, from the Kremlin and the Metro to the Old Arbat street and the Tretyakov Gallery. Besides these sites, you will also visit a fascinating country estate which today is quite off the beaten path, Gorky Estate, where the Soviet leader Lenin spent the last months of his life.

Kolomenskoye Tour with transport

The history of Kolomenskoye stretches back for centuries. In 1380, Dmitri Donskoi’s army passed through Kolomenskoye on their way to the Kulikovo battlefield, and it was...

Tours by car

Kremlin, Red Sq., Cathedrals & Armory Tour

The Kremlin is truly a fascinating structure, at the same time it is an ancient tower, the city’s former military fortification, a palace, an armory, the sovereign treasury...

Walking tours

Kremlin, Red Sq., Cathedrals, Armory, Diamond Fund Tour

Old Arbat walking tour

You will be told of the street’s interesting history and view the street’s artisan culture. You will also have the opportunity to view and purchase souvenirs from the...

Tour to Sergiev Posad with transport

Considered by some to be the Russian Vatican, Sergiev Posad is the temporary residence of the Patriarch of the Russian Orthodox Church. The Trinity St. Sergius Monastery (Lavra)...

Tour to Kuskovo with transport

The Kuskovo Estate often called the Moscow Versailles due to its perfectly preserved French park, is an example of an 18th century, luxurious Moscow summer residence. Its history...

Tour to Tsaritsyno with transport

The Tsaritsyno Estate is located in the southern part of Moscow. The estate was constructed for Catherine the Great by the Russian architects Bazhenov and Kazakov in a romantic...

Moscow Metro and Old Arbat Tour

The Moscow Metro is one of the largest and most grandly built metro systems in the world. It was meant to be a showcase of the Soviet Union’s achievements for both the Russians...

Vodka Museum Tour with transport (excursion and vodka tasting)

Vodka is an important component of Russian life, an element of national identity and everyday culture. We invite you to visit the Vodka Museum and feel the atmosphere of long-gone...

Mikhail Bulgakov Apartment Museum

This apartment museum located close to Patriarch Ponds became the prototype of the "bad apartment" described in the novel "The Master and Margarita." Currently the museum's...

Kremlin, Red Sq., Cathedrals & Diamond Fund Tour

The State Museum of Lev Tolstoy Tour

Take this opportunity to learn more about the Russian writer Lev Tolstoy. During the visit to the museum you will see part of a vast collection of exhibits connected to Tolstoy...

Novodevichy Convent Tour with transport

Tour of the Novodevichy Monastery. Founded in 1524 by Grand Prince VasiliIoanovich, the original convent was enclosed by fortified walls and contained 12 towers. The structure...

City Tour with Visit to St. Basils & Red Sq. with transport

Panoramic City Tour. This Moscow tour is a great start to your trip and the best way to get acquainted with many of the city’s major highlights. Our professional guide will...

City Tour of Moscow

Head to the heart of Moscow with a professional guide on a 4-hour private walk through the city center. See Tverskaya and Old Arbat streets, Theatre Square with the world-famous...

Moscow Metro walking tour

Kremlin, Red Square and Cathedrals Tour

KGB Tour with transport

This is a very interesting and insightful tour. You will visit places connected with Stalin’s terror - a time of great repression and fear. You will be shown monuments to...

Soviet and Post-Soviet Moscow Tour

The tour begins with a drive or walk down Tverskaya Street – a Soviet masterpiece. In the years of Soviet power, Tverskaya began to undergo a transformation: it was widened...

Tretyakov State Gallery Tour

This world-famous gallery contains masterpieces of Russian art beginning in the 10th century up until today. You will view exquisite Russian icons and paintings from the 18th and...

Jewish Heritage of Moscow Tour

This tour offers a detailed look into the history and present-day life of the Jewish community of Moscow. On the tour, you will visit sites connected with the cultural and religious...

Vodka Museum Tour with transport (excursion only)

Lena, our guide in Moscow was excellent. She was very knowledgable and could answer any question we had for her. We liked that she could pick up on our interests and take us places we might not have thought of to go. When we realized that one of the places we had chosen to see would probably not be that interesting to us, she was able to arrange entry to the Diamond Fund and the Armoury for us. Riding the Metro with Lena was a real adventure and a lot of fun. In Saint Petersburg we found Anna well versed in the history of the Tsars and in the Hermitage collection. Arkady in Veliky Novgorod was a very good guide and answered all of our questions with ease. Novgorod was perhaps a long way to go for a day trip, but we did enjoy it. Vasily was a great driver to have and kept us safe with good humour and skill. We enjoyed ourselves so much, my daughter says she is already planning to return. We would both have no hesistation to recommend ExpresstoRussia to anyone we know.

Just wanted to let you know that My grandson Bruno and I couldn´t have been more pleased with our week in Moscow (6/15 - 6/21). We were absolutely enchanted with the whole experience, including getting lost a couple of times in the Metro during our free time. Although both our guides (both Eleanas) were excellent, I would particularly commend the first one (she took us to the Tatiakov, the KGB tour, and to that beautiful cemetery where so many great Russian artists, authors, composers, musicians, militarists, and politicians are buried). Her knowledge is encyclopedic; and her understanding of today´s Russia as a product of its past was, for us, truly enlightening. I will be taking another tour in Russia, with my wife, within the next two or three years. I will be in touch with you when the time comes. Meanwhile, I will refer you to other potential visitors to Russia as I meet them.

Tours to Moscow

Our Moscow tours are land only meaning that you arrange your own air travel to Russia and our expert staff meets you at the airport and handles everything else from there. Our online Airline Ticket booking system offers some of the most competitive rates to Russia available on the web so if you need tickets, please visit our Russian air ticket center . Rest assured that you will be taken great care of on one of our Moscow tours. Express to Russia has a fully staffed office in Moscow that will help to make your visit fun, informative and unforgettable. Please remember that of all these tours are private and can be adjusted to your taste. You can add, replace or skip some sights; you can add more days to the package or cut the tour short. Our specialists will be glad to help you create the tour of your dreams!

Moscow, a City Like No Other

Moscow is Russia’s largest city with a population of between 12 and 13 million. It is also Europe’s largest city and when you visit Moscow, you can feel it. The layout and architecture of the city is eclectic, ranging from crooked, ancient streets and alleyways to wide, bustling boulevards, from medieval churches to Stalin skyscrapers and to modern, glass buildings towering over everything and of course in the center of it all is the Kremlin and the magnificent Red Square. Moscow is also home to a fantastic, efficient and very beautiful metro system – each station having its own special design. In fact, Express to Russia’s Moscow metro tours and excursions are some of our most popular attractions that we offer. On our Moscow tours, you will see this and more.

Moscow Tours centering on Russian History

Moscow has a long and interesting history and has been the capital of Russia in many of its different iterations – capital of the Grand Duchy of Moscow , the Russian Empire and of course the Soviet Union (who could ever forget the Soviet Union?). Moscow, was founded in the 12th century by Prince Yuri Dolgaruki (Yuri of the long arms – he really did have long arms!). From that time on, it was home to the Russian Tsars until Peter the Great moved the capital to St. Petersburg in 1703. The city has survived invasions and sieges from the Mongols, the Tartars, the Poles, Lithuanians and Napoleon but has always persevered. Our Moscow tours will enlighten you on this great history and give you insights into Muscovites and their unique culture. Our Moscow tours show you what the city is like today but also brings to life the past. Moscow never seems to sleep and is bursting with energy. A Moscow tour with Express to Russia is truly the best way of getting to know Russia’s largest and most vibrant city.

Frequently Asked Questions From Our Travelers

What is the best time to visit moscow.

Any time of year is fine depending on what you plan to do. Summertime is pleasantly warm, ideal for exploring the city and its vibrant atmosphere, but Moscow will be much busier and accommodation is more expensive. Winter can be quite cold but beautiful nonetheless, and this is unproblematic if you intend to spend most of your trip in museums and galleries. There are also various festivals and events organised throughout the year. For more information about the best time to visit, read our guide

How many days are enough in Moscow?

If you plan your itinerary strategically and aren’t averse to a packed schedule, you can cover Moscow’s main sights over a long weekend. Most popular attractions are in the city centre, and the Moscow Metro allows you to cover much ground in a small amount of time. Ensure that your accommodation is fairly central and book tickets in advance, so that you can make the most of your days. For an informative and well-organised day out, check out our Moscow day tours with options to suit all interests.

Do they speak English in Moscow?

As Russia’s capital city, tourists are well accommodated in Moscow. There should be English-speaking staff in restaurants, bars, hotels, shops and attractions in tourist hotspots, and there are also English-speaking tourist police. Transport services have English translations on their maps and English announcements via intercom; alternatively, order taxis from the Yandex Taxi app (Russian Uber), though it’s unlikely that your taxi driver will speak English. If you get stuck and cannot communicate, it’s fine to use Google Translate.

Is it safe to travel to Moscow?

It is no less safe to travel to Moscow than to any European city if you exercise common sense and look after your belongings. As with every city some regions can be more unsavoury than others, but no tourist attractions are located there. The traffic in Moscow is notorious, so exercise caution when crossing roads. Do not take unlicensed taxis; book in advance or take public transport, which is widespread and perfectly safe. If you encounter any problems, look for the special tourist police who can help you. For more information, read our guide about staying safe in Russia .

Our travel brands include

Express to Russia

Join us on Facebook

We invite you to become a fan of our company on Facebook and read Russian news and travel stories. To become a fan, click here .

Join our own Russian Travel, Culture and Literature Club on Facebook. The club was created to be a place for everyone with an interest in Russia to get to know each other and share experiences, stories, pictures and advice. To join our club, please follow this link .

We use cookies to improve your experience on our Website, and to facilitate providing you with services available through our Website. To opt out of non-essential cookies, please click here . By continuing to use our Website, you accept our use of cookies, the terms of our Privacy Policy and Terms of Service . I agree

• Bahasa Indonesia
• Slovenščina
• Science & Tech
• Russian Kitchen

Your 48-hour tour guide of Moscow this winter!

9 am – Visit the Red Square 

Christmas market on Red Square

The first thing that every tourist should do by default is visit the very heart of Moscow – it’s main and most beautiful (which ‘krasnaya’ actually meant in Old Russian) square! 

There are several ways to explore it:

• Take a selfie with Spasskaya Tower
• Have a warm drink at the Christmas market (which lasts until mid-January)
• Visit Lenin’s Mausoleum
• Shop in the gorgeous adjacent GUM department store
• Visit St. Basil’s Cathedral (and learn that it’s actually several churches under one roof).           

11 am – It’s Kremlin time! 

Inside the Moscow Kremlin

Entering the Kremlin is, actually, a bit of a quest, as it’s a presidential facility with no general access. You need to buy a ticket or, better still, book a guided tour. Inside the Kremlin’s walls, you will find ancient cathedrals, in which Russian tsars used to be crowned and buried, as well as explore the magnificent architecture of the Kremlin that reflects the rich history of the country. And, finally, you could also make a quick visit to the Moscow Kremlin Museums and admire artifacts from various Russian tsarist eras: carriages, thrones, crowns and the most incredible armory and jewelry. 

For more information, visit the official website of the Kremlin . It’s open from 10 am to 5 pm (and it’s closed on Thursdays) in winter.

2 pm – Watch the changing of the Guard

The honor guard at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier

A very spectacular (and free) thing to do is watch how the honor guard does their ceremonial change at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier and the Eternal Flame, situated in Alexander Garden, right next to the Kremlin wall. Every hour, from 8 am to 8 pm, the 1st Company of the Kremlin (Presidential) Regiment performs this rather old and beautiful tradition. But, be warned, it's often overcrowded. 

3 pm – Enjoy a green oasis just in the center

Florarium in Zaryadye

Just a few steps from the Red Square, you will find the fabulous Zaryadye park. Opened in 2017, it is designed by renowned American architect bureau ‘Diller Scofidio + Renfro’. You can walk among the very cozy botanical decorations and explore Russia’s climate zones, as each of them is represented in dedicated areas, complete with flora from those zones.

The floating bridge in Zaryadye Park

The park also has an underground museum, an “ice cave” and a 3D cinema, where you can take part in a virtual adventure – a flight over Moscow! However, the piece de resistance is a floating boomerang bridge over the Moskva River, one of the best places to take a selfie.

You can also grab a quick lunch or relax with a cup of coffee or tea in the park.

7 pm – Arrange a ballet night

The Bolshoi Theater

Of course, the most fancy way to finish your day in Moscow would be to go to the ballet at the Bolshoi Theater (in a perfect world, to see ‘The Nutcracker’!). However, getting tickets to the Bolshoi is not an easy task and should be done well in advance of your visit. 

But, don’t be upset if you don’t manage to get tickets to the Bolshoi. Moscow has dozens of other options to see a ballet (or opera). No less brilliant performances can be seen in the Stanislavsky and Nemirovich-Danchenko Music Theater or in The State Kremlin Palace (by the way, this is another way to get a quick glimpse inside the Kremlin!).

10:30 pm – Have a late dinner in a fancy restaurant

Dr Zhivago restaurant

There are not so many other cities with such a big choice of restaurants in a range of tastes and styles. In 2021, the authoritative Michelin guide announced their pick of the best of Moscow’s restaurants. And here’s our guide to all the places with Russian cuisine for any budget. But, if you happen to be in the area of the Bolshoi or Nemirovich-Danchenko Theater, then ‘Dr. Zhivago’ would definitely be a nice option (and it’s open around the clock).

DAY 2 

9 am – grab a moscow coffee.

Winter festivities mood in Moscow

Moscow is definitely a coffee city! You can find coffee shops on every corner and they all offer a huge range of drinks. Try a ‘raf’ coffee, a sweet, creamy drink that was created in Russia, or dare to pick one of the very unusual offers, like cheese coffee or a Soviet candy style one (check out our coffee guide here ).

10 am – Take a river cruise

Winter boating along the Moskva River

Another exciting way to explore Moscow is to observe it from the water. Boats cruise along the Moskva River all year round. Most begin their route from the Hotel Ukraine, one of Stalin's ‘Seven Sister’ skyscrapers, and will bring you back to the same spot after passing the medieval Novodevichy Convent, Moscow State University and Luzhniki Stadium, the Cathedral of Christ the Saviour and giant monument to Peter the Great and many other sightseeings. 

It’s always at optimum temperature inside the boat, which also has huge panoramic windows. Select boats also offer a full dining experience, so it is also a nice place to have breakfast or lunch.

If you are not a water person, then discover other, unusual sides of Moscow – pick one of the activities we’ve prepared for you here ! 

1 pm – Visit ‘Russia’ Expo and taste a bunch of Russian regional cuisines

Russia Expo at VDNKh

Until April 2024, the Soviet-era VDNKh exhibition park is hosting the huge ‘Russia’ expo, with tons of activities and expositions devoted to Russia, its culture, science and nature. Check out our special guide on what to do there!  

An entire ‘House of Russian Cuisine’ has been opened at the expo. You will find 15 food stands with flagship dishes from Kamchatka, Siberia, Karelia and other regions of Russia. Imagine trying a range of cuisines and dishes in one place without even having to travel anywhere, be it Altai pelmeni, Tula kalach or Caucasian pies! A perfect place to grab some lunch.

House of Russian cuisines at VDNKh

The VDNKh exhibition park is a great place to visit, in general! Its pavilions are the perfect example of Stalinit Empire style architecture and you can almost feel as if you’ve traveled back in time! You will also find several interesting museums in the park – devoted to space exploration, Russian history and even a ‘Special Purpose Garage’, which showcases the various vehicles used by the country’s leaders. 

'Sun of Moscow' wheel

And, finally, you can ride Europe's tallest panoramic wheel – ‘Sun of Moscow’ – that will give you panoramic views of the city – from a height of 140 meters!

5 pm – Ice skate with view & mulled wine

Ice skating rink on Red Square (GUM department store on the background)

Ice skating is one of the most popular and affordable activities in Moscow. There are several great ice skating rinks in picturesque locations that are open all winter long. One of the biggest rinks in Europe is also at the aforementioned VDNKh or you can visit the one in Gorky Park, another very popular Moscow spot, or the small, but fancy rink – right on Red Square! 

All the parks offer ice skate rental, so the only things you need are warm clothes, a charged phone to record your memories and a good mood!  Moscow also gets dark at 4:30 pm in winter and hundreds of lights are switched on, turning the city into a giant fairy tale! 

A mulled wine with a view

And, if you are not a sports person, we’ve picked several other unusual activities that you could do in Moscow instead. For example, did you know that there is an entire district of dacha (countryside) houses, just 10 minutes from the center, surrounded by giant new highrises? How about taking a stroll there and feeling the early Soviet atmosphere?

8 pm – Warm up & laugh out loud

After all these outdoor activities, what could be better than a warm cozy bar with a hot drink and nice company? Moscow is a city full of entertainment for all tastes. So, if you know the Russian language or want to practice it, go to a theater or catch a stand-up comedy show. Moscow even has comedy shows in English, where you can hear both Russians speaking fluent English or foreigners (including Brits and Americans) who live in Russia speaking in broken or heavily-accented Russian (Check their show dates on the ‘ Moscow English Comedy ’ Telegram channel)!

11 pm – Finish by partying the night away!

Propaganda club in Moscow

Moscow never sleeps, as you might have heard. Which means there are plenty of bars and nightclubs where you can have a drink (or two or three; be sure to check out how Russians make Black Russian and White Russian cocktails) and chat with incredibly different people. Have fun and don’t miss your flight (or miss it and stay longer in the best city in the world!)!

That's it! See you soon in Moscow

Dear readers,

Our website and social media accounts are under threat of being restricted or banned, due to the current circumstances. So, to keep up with our latest content, simply do the following:

• Subscribe to our Telegram channel
• Subscribe to our weekly email newsletter
• Enable push notifications on our website
• Install a VPN service on your computer and/or phone to have access to our website, even if it is blocked in your country

If using any of Russia Beyond's content, partly or in full, always provide an active hyperlink to the original material.

to our newsletter!

Get the week's best stories straight to your inbox

• Tula: The best getaway from Moscow! (PHOTOS)
• 20 most interesting places in Moscow Region (PHOTOS)
• 10 things you should NEVER do in Moscow

This website uses cookies. Click here to find out more.

What Summer Travel to Europe Will Look Like This Year

By Arati Menon

All products featured on Condé Nast Traveler are independently selected by our editors. However, when you buy something through our retail links, we may earn an affiliate commission.

With additional reporting by Sarah Allard

When travel journalist Jenn Rice decided to spend July and August in Italy and Croatia last year, she wasn’t expecting to be spending most of her time indoors. “It was very very hot, so I booked museum tickets during peak days or just lounged around in my room with a spritz and a book until the sun set.” In Dubrovnik she tried escaping to the sea for a cool dip, but everyone else had the same idea—resulting in sweaty, overcrowded beaches. “In Rome , gelato melted faster than the speed of light,” she says.

Come summer, major attractions like the Spanish Steps in Rome are thronged by international tourists and vacationing Europeans.

Rome and Dubrovnik weren’t the only European destinations overcome with heat. To travel in Europe in the summer of 2023 was to experience first-hand a single season of contrasting extremes. Temperatures swung from hot and dry to cold and wet, and heatwaves broke out across several of the most heavily touristed destinations, with temperatures reaching upwards of 100°F. In Northern Greece, wildfires broke out —the worst experienced there in 20 years —destroying homes, forests, and vineyards.

Yet in the midst of it all, the continent also saw record-breaking tourist numbers —the highest since pre-pandemic levels—even as hotel prices swelled and airfares hit peaks. From scenic escapes like Bellagio in Como and Taormina in Sicily (where the White Lotus effect was on full display) to bucket-list cities like Paris and Madrid , much of touristed Europe was completely overwhelmed.

“We had people calling us from Athens and Rome asking us to get them out [to somewhere cooler in Europe], because it was too hot and too crowded,” recalls Jan Sortland , founder of Scandinavia specialists Norwegian Adventures.

International tourists weren’t the only ones thronging these spots. According to the European Travel Commission , most Europeans took their vacations before the peak month of August, with Italy and France being their top destinations. This resulted in packed crowds at all the major attractions. For John Canning, an LA-based executive who traveled to Paris in July, the crowds were eye-opening. “We didn’t anticipate that everything we would want to see was sold out. We only got Musée d’Orsay tickets through our concierge at a substantial premium and could not get into the Louvre full stop,” he says.

Rice says the summer taught her to plan her travel differently this year—and beyond: “I’m going to try and do coastal Italy early in May, and if I decide to travel in Europe this summer it will be either Asturias in Northern Spain or the Julian Alps in Slovenia to keep cool."

She’s not alone—according to the travel specialists we spoke with, there’s an increased interest in lesser-known destinations offering a more laid back (and cooler) holiday. “Our guests are asking after places where they can be outdoors, yet have access to wine & foodie experiences and culture. Slovenia is a great example of where you can have all that without being overwhelmed with the heat; the Dolomites in Italy is another,” says Rachael Mendizabal, Europe travel specialist at Scott Dunn . Richard Hyde, COO at Small Luxury Hotels of the World , is seeing similar trends across their European portfolio: “Guests seem to be gravitating towards alternative destinations—Milos instead of Mykonos and Slovenia instead of Spain.”

Norway is a popular destination this summer, offering cooler weather and a myriad ways to be active outside, exploring the islands and fjords.

A big part of that shift will play into Sortland’s area of expertise: Northern Europe. With the Med getting too hot to handle, experts predict that tourism will shift northwards. “We’re seeing a lot of interest in Copenhagen and Stockholm for the cultural experience, and then onward to Norway for the nature. Currently, the fjords are still a favorite but Norway is a large country and there’s so much more to see—the Helgeland coast for example with its beautiful coastline and mountainous islands,” he says. The draw is a more moderate temperature and unique outdoor experiences. “ Iceland is a big favorite right now with the Northern lights being the most active this year from September through March,” says Mendizabal.

Jessica Puckett

Cassie Shortsleeve

In turn, for many, the more standard city breaks will fall later in the year. “Athens and Rome will always be desirable destinations, but we’ve seen an uptick in many people preferring to go there in May and October to swerve crowds,” says Carolyn Addison, head of product at Black Tomato , noting the weather in fall has been stable lately and enticing to travelers not tied to school holidays.

With this increased flexibility, shoulder season will become tricker to define, according to Mendizabal. Thanks to hotels extending their season as demand shifts to almost year-round and the high-season pricing window getting longer, the days of “scooping a deal in September are likely over.” At Jumeirah Palace in Capri , the season now runs from March to the end of December. “Thanks to the good weather, guests are staying longer than in the past,” says Ermanno Zanini, regional vice president at Jumeirah Group, Southern Europe and United Kingdom.

Castello di Vicarello in Tuscany 's Maremma countryside has traditionally stayed open in March and November. “We're pushing the low season as much as possible because we truly believe it is a wonderful time to discover Tuscany. There is so much for guests to enjoy from hiking to mountain biking, truffle hunting, and wine tastings,” says owner Neri Baccheschi Berti.

Crucially, traveling in the shoulder and off seasons isn't just about avoiding the crowds; it’s knowing that seasonal destinations are multi-dimensional, with year-round appeal. “One of my favorite things to do in cooler weather is to hike to the peak of Mount Solaro, with its beautiful views of the town of Capri and the bay of Marina Piccola with the Faraglioni, as well as Anacapri. You also see plenty of wintering birds on the island,” says Zanini.

Zanini adds that they are in talks with the island's municipality to consider what it would take to stay open in February and March, traditionally strictly closed off. “It's not as straightforward as you think. There’s a lot of infrastructure that needs to be geared towards the low season: restaurants need to stay open, as do shops, and guides need to be available; it can’t just be the hotel,” he adds.

However, with staying open longer, there’s a real opportunity to engage local communities year-round, not to mention stabilize the hiring pool—and improve work culture. “We’ve already seen the positive impact of a longer season for our partners on the ground and locals in the hospitality and tourism sector,” says Addison, who adds that shifts in travel seasons are far from a fleeting trend. “This pattern for more year-round travel will continue to pick up pace in 2025—and beyond," she says.

Travel specialists are quick to point out that even with some of this rebalancing, summer this year and next will continue to see high demand for travel to—and within—Europe. According to Hayley Berg, chief economist at Hopper, while airfare remains higher than at this time in 2019, 40% of all searches for international trips this summer are to Europe, in line with last year and slightly higher than in 2019.

“Sure, we think that traveler numbers on the Côte d'Azur will smooth out through the year, but summer will certainly remain the festive season—only it will be longer,” says Lucie Weill, owner of wellness retreat Lily of the Valley near St. Tropez , which sees its faire share of packed streets and crowded beaches come summer. Weill adds that the hotel has seen success in extending its season.

For travel specialist Cari Gray of Gray & Co . late requests and a lack of flexibility could mean getting turned away because of a lack of availability. “Whether it’s a visit to the Vatican or dogsledding in Alaska , access is going to be very difficult. And there are only that many high-end lodges in Lapland ,” she says. Addison offers the example of Lake Como , where the best properties can often get booked up a year or two in advance during the busiest summer months. “Knowing that the top hotels and guides are getting booked up and that weather disruptions are increasingly unpredictable, clients who want to commit to the most popular summer hotspots in Europe, like the Greek islands and Sardinia are securing their bookings a year out.”

The Balearic island of Menorca is a charming escape with its rocky coves, white-sand beaches, and green rolling hills.

Ultimately, it’s not about giving up on all the places you love: just about pivoting, even if within the same country. “Why not Menorca instead of Mallorca, with its explosion of fantastic hotels and its great beach front, or Epirus in Northern Greece on the Albanian border with its Stone villages, old-growth forests, and truffle hunts instead of the islands," says Gray.

"In Italy we’re always pushing to discover new areas, even in regions that we’ve been exploring for decades like Tuscany and Umbria because new hotels are opening up regularly,” says Courtney Mundy , a travel specialist at experiential travel experts Butterfield & Robinson.

And, a word of caution for the rising favorites: “Smaller destinations in Iceland & Norway will really need to consider how to manage the higher number of visitors than ever before,” says Addison. “Parts of Iceland are overtouristed,” agrees Sortland, “so, it’s not unreasonable to think that smaller communities in Norway could eventually be at risk, too.” Whether it's through new tourist tax regimens or limits on cruise ship day-trippers to reduce crowding, a shifting tide will need more alert local governments—and as we’re swapping beaches for the mountains or Rome for Stockholm, more responsible travel habits that leave fewer traces behind.

Recommended

Disneyland Hotel Paris

Telegraphenamt

Europe Travel Guide

By signing up you agree to our User Agreement (including the class action waiver and arbitration provisions ), our Privacy Policy & Cookie Statement and to receive marketing and account-related emails from Traveller. You can unsubscribe at any time. This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.