Bavarian Christmas Markets by Train
Bavaria has a special charm in December. Christmas Markets brighten the old towns, early evenings feel welcoming, and trains take us effortlessly from one festive place to the next. After flying into Munich, we travel to Nuremberg which serves as our base for six night, allowing us to explore southern Bavaria at a relaxed pace. During our week there, we will visit Christmas Markets and other historic attractions in Nuremberg, Bamberg, Rothenburg ob der Tauber, Coburg and Wurzburg.
This Bavarian Train Tour of Christmas Markets is a small group, with days planned so everyone has time with the group and on their own. In the markets especially, everyone has the freedom to wander, try a few local treats, browse the stalls and take in the atmosphere at their own speed. After exploring the region from Nuremberg, we return to Munich to visit several Christmas Markets and explore this spectacular city for two days.
The entire tour has an easy rhythm, allowing everyone to settle in, enjoy each town, let the trains link one Christmas market to the next, and take in the quiet winter magic that Bavaria offers at this time of year.
DETAILS
LAND PACKAGE: $4,480
SINGLE SUPPLEMENT: $1,310
TYPE: TrainTour
HOTELS: 4 star
GROUP: Max 12 Guests (6 Spaces Remaining)
DURATION: 9 days (8 nights)
Begins in Munich: Wed Dec 2, 2026
Ends in Munich: Thu Dec 10, 2026
Cities & Christmas Markets
Bamberg
Bamberg is a beautiful riverside city with a cathedral, old bridges and a gentle, historic feel. We visit the cathedral and the unique city hall set above the river. Then we spend relaxed time in the Christmas Market and enjoy the charm of this UNESCO listed town.
Rothenburg
Rothenburg ob der Tauber is one of the best preserved medieval towns in Germany, full of cobblestone lanes and old towers. We explore the old town and walk along parts of the medieval walls. The Christmas Market here is especially lovely, and you have time to enjoy it at your own pace.
Coburg
Coburg is a smaller Bavarian town with royal history and impressive fortress overlooking the area. We visit the town’s Schloss (palace) and explore the hilltop Veste (castle) with its wide views. Afterwards, we enjoy the Christmas Market in the central square and the relaxed feel of the town.
Nuremberg
Nuremberg is one of Bavaria’s most historic cities, known for its old town and impressive castle. While here, we visit the Imperial Castle and other historic sites. Everyone will also have plenty of opportunities to their famous Christmas Market with time to wander and take in the festive atmosphere.
Wurzburg
Wurzburg is known for its grand Baroque architecture and its setting along the Main River. We tour the Residenz, one of the most remarkable palaces in Germany. Then we stroll to the nearby Christmas Market to enjoy a bit of seasonal cheer.
Munich
Munich is a lively and welcoming city with a beautiful historic center. We take a walking tour, visit the Christmas Market and enjoy the festive streets. A free afternoon lets you explore before we gather for a relaxed farewell dinner.
Daily Agenda
Day 0 (Tue Dec 1)
DEPART HOME: Begin Journey to Bavaria
Today, guests will depart from their home airport and begin their journey to Bavaria. While this Land Package does not include flights, TravelMaven is happy to help book those. For those departing Toronto, we recommend Air Canada's direct flight which departs in the evening and arrives in Munich the following morning.
Day 1 (Wed Dec 2)
ARRIVE IN BAVARIA: Land in Munich & Train to Nurembrug
The recommended flight from Toronto arrives in Munich this morning, where guests will be greeted by TravelMaven staff. We’ll take a scenic train ride to Nuremberg, arriving in the afternoon to check into our hotel. Later, we’ll visit the nearby Christmas Market to enjoy the festive atmosphere and sample local specialties for a casual dinner before returning to the hotel for the night.
Day 2 (Thu Dec 3)
BAMBERG DAY: Cathedral, City Hall & Christmas Market
We’ll meet in the hotel lobby this morning and walk to the train station for our trip to Bamberg. After arriving, we’ll take a short bus ride to the Bamberg Cathedral, then enjoy a relaxed walk back through the city. Along the way, we’ll stop at City Hall and end the afternoon at the Christmas Market before returning by train to Nuremberg in the evening.
Meals Included: Breakfast & Lunch
Day 3 (Fri Dec 4)
ROTHENBURG DAY: Old Town, Old Walls & Christmas Market
We’ll gather in the hotel lobby this morning and make our way to the train station for a day trip to Rothenburg ob der Tauber. Upon arrival, we’ll explore the charming Old Town, stroll along the medieval city walls, and browse the enchanting Christmas Market at the town square. After a full day of sightseeing and shopping, we’ll take the evening train back to Nuremberg.
Meals Included: Breakfast & Lunch
Day 4 (Sat Dec 5)
COBURG DAY: Schloss, Veste & Christmas Market
We’ll meet in the hotel lobby this morning and head to the train station for our journey to Coburg. After arriving, we’ll visit the elegant Ehrenburg Palace and the impressive Veste Coburg fortress before spending time at the Christmas Market in the town square. In the evening, we’ll return by train to Nuremberg for a relaxing night.
Meals Included: Breakfast & Lunch
Day 5 (Sun Dec 6)
NUREMBURG DAY: Castle, Nazi Museum & Christmas Market
Today, we’ll stay local and spend the day exploring the highlights of Nuremberg. In the morning, we’ll visit the Imperial Castle before an optional visit to the Documentation Center Nazi Party Rally Grounds. The afternoon and evening are free for guests to enjoy the Christmas Market, explore the old town, or relax over dinner at a local restaurant.
Meals Included: Breakfast
Day 6 (Mon Dec 7)
WURZBURG DAY: Residenz & Christmas Market
This morning, we’ll take the train to Würzburg for a day of sightseeing. Upon arrival, we’ll visit the magnificent Würzburg Residenz, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its grand architecture and frescoes. Afterward, we’ll enjoy time at the Christmas Market in the city square before returning by train to Nuremberg in the evening.
Meals Included: Breakfast & Lunch
Day 7 (Tue Dec 8)
TRAIN TO MUNICH: Christmas Market
We’ll check out of our hotel this morning and take the train to Munich, enjoying views of the Bavarian countryside along the way. In the late afternoon, we’ll head to Munich’s world-famous Christmas Market where guests can browse artisan stalls, sip mulled wine, and enjoy the festive atmosphere. The evening is free to continue exploring or dine at one of the city’s many traditional restaurants.
Meals Included: Breakfast
Day 8 (Wed Dec 9)
MUNICH DAY: Walking tour, Free Afternoon & Farewell Dinner
This morning, we’ll meet a local guide for a walking tour of Munich, exploring the city’s historic squares, landmarks, and festive streets. The afternoon is free for guests to enjoy shopping, museums, or a final stroll through the Christmas Market. In the evening, we’ll gather for a farewell dinner at a local restaurant to celebrate the journey and share memories from our time in Bavaria.
Meals Included: Breakfast & Dinner
Day 9 (Thu Dec 10)
DEPART MUNICH: Begin Journey Home
Guests will enjoy breakfast at the hotel before checking out and transferring to the airport for return flights home. We hope you’ve enjoyed your time in Bavaria and take home wonderful memories of the Christmas season in Germany.
Meals Included: Breakfast