Immerse Yourself in the Christmas Markets of Zürich, Bern, Lucerne, Alsace and the Black Forest
The Christmas markets of Switzerland, Germany, and France are enchanting destinations that transform into winter wonderlands during the holiday season. In Switzerland, markets like the ones in Zurich and Lucerne feature charming wooden stalls, artisanal crafts, and delicious Swiss treats like raclette and mulled wine. Germany, renowned for its Black Forest, where visitors can enjoy gingerbread, sausages, and handmade ornaments amidst festive lights and decorations. France's Christmas markets, such as those in Alsace and Colmar, blend traditional Alsatian charm with French elegance, offering delightful regional specialties, beautiful decorations, and a warm, fairytale atmosphere. Each country's markets provide a unique and magical experience that captures the spirit of Christmas. Let the symphony of flavors transcend you into a world of culinary bliss, where the festive market stalls, culinary creations and allure of the holiday season harmoniously converge to create everlasting memories of a fantastical Christmas wonderland.
A Christmas Market Trifecta with Switzerland, Germany & France
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VACATION HIGHLIGHTS
Please note:
Tour inclusions can change depending upon
seasonality and weather conditions.
•6 Nights at 2 Luxury Boutique Hotels
•Round-Trip Zürich Airport Transfers
•This is a Fully Hosted Tour
•First Class Train and Boat rides
•Festive Breakfast Each Morning
•Total of 6 Breakfast, 1 Lunch, 6 Dinners
•6 Christmas Markets in 3 Countries
•Hands-On Cookie Making Class
•Hands-On Candle Making class
•Chocolate Museum & Candy Bar Creation
•Fondue Steamboat Dinner
•Travel Through Ravenna Gorge
•Germany's Black Forest Experience
•A Tour of Colmar, Alsace's Little Venice
•Alsatian Dinner paired with local wines
•Two Christmas themed Nature Hikes
•Guided Tour of Zürich Old Town
•Guided Tour of Bern Old Town
•Guided Tour of Lucerne
While our tours are designed as soft adventure experiences, walking, climbing stairs,
and in rare cases mild hiking may be required. If you have mobility issues, you should
speak with one of our culinary travel specialists to determine if this tour is
appropriate for your situation.
AVAILABLE DATES
Please note that this tour runs from Tuesday to Monday each week in order to take full advantage of the Christmas Markets. Availability includes December 3 - 9 and December 10 - 16, 2024. Also available for December 2 - 8 and December 9 - 15, 2025.
SAMPLE ITINERARY
Please note: Actual itineraries are subject to change due to seasonality.
Click arrows (▶) to show details
Day 1
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Zürich to Lucerne by Train, Boat | Transfer to Hotel in Weggis | Cocktails & DinnerPrepare to embark on a journey that will enrich your senses and captivate your heart amidst the magical Christmas season that starts the moment you land in Zürich, Switzerland. Begin your enchanting voyage from Zürich airport where the Swiss winterscape unfolds in all its breathtaking splendor on your way via train to Lucerne, then boat to the picturesque town of Weggis to your cozy hotel where comfort and elegance await. Later that evening, in a celebration fit for the holiday season, savor welcome cocktails that sparkle with holiday magic, and delight your palate with a sumptuous multi-course gourmet dinner crafted to perfection. Allow yourself to be seduced by the tantalizing aromas and flavors, as the warmth of the holiday spirit envelops you in its welcoming embrace, setting the stage for the extraordinary adventures that await you in the coming days. (D)
Day 2
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Swiss Breakfast BuffetStart each day by enjoying a hearty breakfast while taking in the holiday ambience that surrounds you. Enjoy a variety of fresh fruits, yogurts, muesli, breads, pastries, a variety of cheeses and meats, along with cooked dishes. A selection of teas, coffee and juices are also available to help kickstart your morning and invigorate you for the adventures that lie ahead.
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The Christmas Markets of Bern | Old Town TourChristmas in Bern, Switzerland, is a magical experience that captivates visitors with its enchanting atmosphere. The medieval old town, a UNESCO World Heritage site, transforms into a winter wonderland adorned with twinkling lights and festive decorations. The air is filled with the enticing aroma of roasted chestnuts and mulled wine from the the three Christmas markets, where artisans sell handmade crafts and local delicacies. The Bern Minster, a stunning Gothic cathedral, stands tall amidst the festivities, offering a serene backdrop to the cheerful hustle and bustle. Ice skating rinks and cozy cafes provide perfect spots to warm up and enjoy the season's delights. Bern's iconic sandstone buildings and quaint alleyways beckon, where grand monuments stand as testaments to an unparalleled past. Ready yourself for a picture-perfect selfie next to the magnificent Bundeshaus Parliament Building, where you will have a breathtaking backdrop of the Aare-Marzili River and the snowcapped Alps. It's a scene straight out of a holiday postcard.
Day 3
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Swiss Breakfast BuffetStart each day by enjoying a hearty breakfast while taking in the holiday ambience that surrounds you. Enjoy a variety of fresh fruits, yogurts, muesli, breads, pastries, a variety of cheeses and meats, along with cooked dishes. A selection of teas, coffee and juices are also available to help kickstart your morning and invigorate you for the adventures that lie ahead.
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Santa (Samichlaus) Guided Tour | Candle Making & Christmas MarketsToday you will be stepping into the enchanting world of Lucerne with a special Santa Claus-guided city tour, where history meets Christmas tradition as Santa will regale you about how Christmas has been celebrated throughout the years juxtaposed with tales of Lucerne's fascinating past and its rich cultural heritage. He continues with historical anecdotes of iconic landmarks such as the Chapel Bridge and the Lion Monument. Take time to enjoy the festive Christmas markets in Franziskanerplatz known to be the 'Home of Christmas' in Lucerne and become mesmerized by the flood of twinkling Christmas lights where you can sample traditional treats and admire handcrafted ornaments. Next, take a short jaunt toward the pier to "Vögeli-Gärtli where you will make your own personal candle from fragrant beeswax to help warm the holiday spirit within.
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Steamboat Fondue Dinner on Lake LucerneIn the evening you will embark on a romantic journey on the unforgettable and historic steamboat Wilhelm Tell, perfectly adorned in festive Christmas decor. Luxuriate in a sumptuous three-course dinner, followed by the pièce de resistance-Switzerland's decadent cheese fondue. Imagine being in the glow of the night as you dip into the bubbling pot of melted Swiss cheese, and a gentle sway of the steamboat as you bask in the romance of the moment. Gliding along the tranquil waters of Lake Lucerne, and the sound of Christmas carols ringing in the air from the twinkling shores of lovely Lucerne, you realize that the fantasy has truly begun. (B, T, D)
Day 4
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Swiss Breakfast BuffetStart each day by enjoying a hearty breakfast while taking in the holiday ambience that surrounds you. Enjoy a variety of fresh fruits, yogurts, muesli, breads, pastries, a variety of cheeses and meats, along with cooked dishes. A selection of teas, coffee and juices are also available to help kickstart your morning and invigorate you for the adventures that lie ahead.
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Zürich Christmas Markets | Black Forest | Bio-und Wellness Alpenblick HotelToday you will pack up your bags and be escorted to your next luxurious boutique property in the Black Forest of Germany. Enroute to your destination, you will journey through the enchanting streets of Zürich, where history blends seamlessly with the festive spirit of Christmas. Your guided walking tour promises to immerse you in the charm and beauty of the renowned Christmas markets as you traverse the cobblestone streets, among architectural marvels and iconic landmarks, all under a canopy of Christmas lights to brighten your day before your journey takes you to the breathtaking Schwarzwald region. The holistic pampering of the highly regarded Bio-und Wellness Alpenblick hotel is your haven of tranquility nestled amidst nature's embrace. Once you settled in, the choice is yours and promises to be nothing short of blissful journey of discovery. Either embark on a short, guided hike through the pristine landscape, bringing you up close and personal to the heart of nature's beauty, or luxuriate in the hotel's renowned wellness center, where you will melt into relaxation, refresh and rejuvenate until your heart desires…or until the dinner bell rings.
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Multi-Course, Farm-to-Table Dining ExperienceYour day will be capped off with an extraordinary gastronomical experience like no other as your host introduces you to the philosophy behind their organic cuisine. Discover the secrets of sustainable living and the art of harmonizing flavors with nature's bounty. From farm-fresh ingredients to innovative cooking techniques, every dish tells a story of passion and dedication to the earth. As the evening twilight unfolds, you'll be treated to a lavish four-course dinner, each course a masterpiece of culinary artistry, while being cradled by the warmth of new friendships and the joy of shared moments. (B, T, D)
Day 5
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Swiss Breakfast BuffetStart each day by enjoying a hearty breakfast while taking in the holiday ambience that surrounds you. Enjoy a variety of fresh fruits, yogurts, muesli, breads, pastries, a variety of cheeses and meats, along with cooked dishes. A selection of teas, coffee and juices are also available to help kickstart your morning and invigorate you for the adventures that lie ahead.
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Black Forest | Cookie Making | Ravenna GorgeGet ready for an unforgettable day of adventure in the Black Forest and beyond starting out with a Cookie Baking Extravaganza with Host Ferdinand Thoma where you will learn the art of crafting delicious regional cookies while soaking in the warm hospitality. As a cherished memento, each person will receive a beautifully packaged box to safely transport their creations home, along with a stylish kitchen apron to treasure forever. The experience wouldn't be complete until you pair your cookie with a savory touch of hearty soup to complement your sweet delights. Next you will journey through the fairytale region of the enchanting Black Forest inside your cozy coach as you are whisked away to the dazzling Ravenna Gorge region where you will discover the most romantic and intimate Christmas markets yet. As you step into a world of magic, behold the magnificent stone viaduct towering above a snow-covered village, illuminated in a thousand dazzling lights. Feel the festive spirit come alive as a train rushes over the gorge in the distance, enveloped in a mist of red, blue, and green hues. Explore wooden stalls adorned with holiday treasures, from handcrafted goods to tantalizing Black Forest specialties, all offered with warmth and passion by local artisans.
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Flaming Dinner DelightAs dusk sets, relax and reminisce about the day's adventures as you journey back to the cozy comforts of Hotel Alpenblick. Later in the evening you will feast on a truly unforgettable dining experience with an exquisite flaming meat delight. Savor the delectable liquor flavors as you are warmed inside and out amid the cozy confines of Hotel Alpenblick's restaurant as your day of enchantment concludes. Your dreams this evening are on the house! (B, T, L, D)
Day 6
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Swiss Breakfast BuffetStart each day by enjoying a hearty breakfast while taking in the holiday ambience that surrounds you. Enjoy a variety of fresh fruits, yogurts, muesli, breads, pastries, a variety of cheeses and meats, along with cooked dishes. A selection of teas, coffee and juices are also available to help kickstart your morning and invigorate you for the adventures that lie ahead.
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Colmar, Alsace-France | Chocolate Museum & Candy Bar Creations | Christmas Market ExplorationEmbark on your final gastronomic journey as your private coach transports you to the charming town of Colmar in Alsace, France. Marvel at the scenic beauty along the Rhine as you make your way to the "Little Venice of Alsace," renowned for its picturesque waterway canals. Upon arriving in Colmar, you will dive into the culinary delights of Alsace at the bustling market hall to immerse yourself in a world of Alsatian specialties before venturing into the winding alleyways to the famed chocolate museum. Meet skilled chocolatiers as you embark on an unforgettable tour through chocolate history and indulge in an "all you can eat" variety of chocolate flavors, and even create your own customized chocolate bar. After savoring the sweet sensations of the day, lose yourself in the festive atmosphere as you peruse the stalls adorned with holiday treasures.
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Farewell Alsatian Gourmet Dinner at WistubThen to put a little Christmas icing on this final night of your tour, you will cap off the evening at the esteemed Wistub Pfeffel for an authentic Alsatian dining experience. With every bite you will be tantalized with the array of local Alsatian specialties paired with a selection of typical Alsatian white wines, including Riesling and Gewürztraminer, as well as Crémant, the Alsatian rendition of champagne. Let your taste buds dance with delight as you sample the flavors of the region in this unforgettable, gourmet feast. (B, T, D)
Day 7
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Swiss Breakfast BuffetStart each day by enjoying a hearty breakfast while taking in the holiday ambience that surrounds you. Enjoy a variety of fresh fruits, yogurts, muesli, breads, pastries, a variety of cheeses and meats, along with cooked dishes. A selection of teas, coffee and juices are also available to help kickstart your morning and invigorate you for the adventures that lie ahead.
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Check-Out and Departure | Transfer by Train to Zürich AirportYour final day has come too soon, but it is time to pack your bags with a new appreciation for the Christmas Markets of Switzerland, Germany and France, all offering unique flavors of their respective regions. You will end your culinary journey with a final train ride back to Zürich where you may wish to extend your stay. If you do wish to continue exploring Switzerland or other regions, please let your Culinary Travel Specialist know prior to your departure. (B)
Hotel Alexander (Weggis)
Prepare to be captivated by the sweeping transformation awaiting you at Hotel Alexander, a Wellness property where an extensive renovation has elevated every aspect to new heights of creativity and elegance. Nestled in an idyllic, elevated location, relax and take in a breath of the fresh lake air, immersing yourself into an abyss of majestic mountain scenery, wooded acreage, and breath-taking views of Lake Lucerne. Each morning enjoy a hearty breakfast with coffee and in the evening opt to wind down with Apéro, and cake in the lounge, lobby, bar, restaurant, terrace or in the privacy of your room. Pamper yourself in the wellness center featuring a menu of treatments, a private beach, heated outdoor pool, and warm indoor pool.
Alpenblick Hotel (Germany's Black Forrest)
For the remainder of your culinary holiday experience the harmonious combination of Black Forest traditions and modern comfort in the wellness hotel Alpenblick, located in the heart of Höchenschwand. This unique Black Forest hotel is known to be the highest climatic health resort in all of Germany. Here tradition merges with contemporary lifestyle, and wellness with sensible prevention. Certified organic cuisine and sustainable environmental thinking making it the perfect vacation spot to take in nature's beauty inside the Black Forest, while enjoying wellness amenities combined with organic, gourmet dishes.
The Currency Code is listed directly after the published amount. If it states USD, then the quoted price is in United States Dollars. If it states CAD, then the quoted price is in Canadian Dollars. If it states EUR, then the quoted price is in European Union Dollars…etc. However, please note that all charges are processed in USD, and Epitourean’s Merchant Bank automatically calculates the currency conversion on the day of the charge.
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What does Double Occupancy mean?
Two persons traveling together, and staying in the same room. Tour prices are normally quoted as “per person, double occupancy” in case two people are traveling together and staying in the same room, but paying separately. The cost of the lodging is also shared by two people, thereby reducing costs. This could be a married couple, two friends or relatives.
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What is a Single Supplement?
Whenever a person travels alone, the cost of their lodging cannot be shared by another person. When tour products are priced, they are normally stated as “per person, double occupancy.” Whenever a guest occupies a room as a solo, the whole cost of the lodging must be incurred by that one individual. Tour companies accommodate this by charging a Single Supplement. Epitourean does its best to keep the single supplement as low as possible, but it is a real cost that tour companies must absorb, and must pass along to the single traveler.
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If I am a Solo Traveler, will I be paired with another person?
Epitourean never pairs a solo traveler with another person without a special request. If you book Single Occupancy, you will have a room entirely to yourself. However, should you wish to be paired with another solo traveler to save on the single supplement, you may make this request. We cannot guarantee that we can accommodate such requests, since it would take another solo traveling on the same tour for the same dates. But if requested, we will certainly try.
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Are flights included in the tour price?
No. Flights are never included in the price of our land-only tours. Epitourean does not provide air, rail or sea travel, unless expressly noted in the itinerary.
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May I give a culinary tour as a gift?
Yes. Epitourean has a special program designed specifically for this purpose. Our Gift Packages come with features such as special messages to the recipient, gift box option, gift link (without pricing), and floating dates (should you not know when the gift recipient wants to travel). Contact a Culinary Travel Specialist at 800-390-3292 or customerservice@epitourean.com to receive additional information about this unique offering.
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May we request separate beds if sharing a room?
Yes. In most cases, Epitourean can accommodate a request for two beds to be placed in one room. Just make sure to make this request in the comments section of the reservation process.
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Does each guestroom have a private bathroom?
Yes. Epitourean partners with the best lodging options in each destination, and private (en suite) bathrooms are a requirement. However, you should inquire as to the configuration of bathrooms should you have a special need. For example, some tours include accommodations in medieval villages, where either a shower or bath(but maybe not both) are present.
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Can your tours accommodate my dietary restrictions?
In almost all cases, Epitourean can accommodate dietary choices and restrictions. But we do request that you ask a Culinary Travel Specialist prior to making your reservation so that we can assess your individual situation.
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If I am unable to use a portion of the tour, can I get a partial refund?
Unfortunately, due to vendor and supplier contracts, we are unable to provide partial refunds for unused portions of any tour or tour component.
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Are Transfers included in the Itinerary?
Round-trip transfers from the airport or train station are normally included in our international tours. Transfers to the destination (for both international and domestic tours) are not included in the tour price. Please see the Sample Itinerary. If it mentions that transfers are included, then yes, transfers are included at no additional cost.
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What meals and excursions are included in the tour?
The Sample Itinerary should be your reference. If the meal or excursion is described in the Sample Itinerary, then it is included at no additional charge. For those days where it expressly notes Free time, then any optional activities you elect to participate in might have an additional cost. In addition, if the itinerary states "evening on your own," it would imply that you have the opportunity to visit a restaurant of your own choosing, and at your own expense. If you have any question about inclusions, please submit an inquiry by clicking on the blue "Ask Us a Question" button under the price section.
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Is it possible to book pre or post tours or stays through Edible Destinations?
Yes, we often do have optional 2 and 3 night excursions that are priced separately from the tour. We can also assist with pre and post night stays in a hotel if you choose to come in early before the tour starts, or stay on after a tour ends. The price of those hotel stays are not included in the price of the tour, but we would be happy to provide a quote. Simply ask your Culinary Travel Specialist, or submit an inquiry by clicking on the blue "Ask Us a Question" button.
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Are Guide or Host Gratuities included in the price of the tour?
Since tipping guidelines and customs vary widely between countries, we do not include gratuities in the price of the tour. Your Culinary Travel Specialist can provide you with recommendations. But the general rule is to tip modestly when you are pleased with a guide’s services, either at the end of the tour, or at the conclusion of a specialty day excursion where you will only be with that guide (or chef) on that day.
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Should we plan on any personal expenses during the tour?
All lodging, meals, transfers, classes and excursions mentioned in the Sample Itinerary and Vacation Highlights are included in the price of the tour. However, we highly recommend taking local currency for purchasing personal items, souvenirs, tipping, etc. You can either get the local currency at an airport exchange service, ATM or from your local bank prior to travel. However, you should note that many hosted destinations do not accept credit cards for personal purchases.
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Do you recommend Travel Protection?
We recommend that you purchase a travel protection plan to help protect you and
your travel investment against the unexpected. Travel protection plans can include
coverage for Trip Cancellation, Trip Interruption, Emergency Medical and Emergency
Evacuation/Repatriation, Trip Delay, Baggage Delay and more. For more information
on the available plans or to enroll, click on the link below or contact Travelex
Insurance Services at 800-228-9792 and reference location number 06-0248.
The product descriptions provided here are only brief summaries
and may be changed without notice. The full coverage terms and details, including
limitations and exclusions, are contained in the insurance policy. Travelex CA
Agency License #0D10209. All products listed are underwritten by, Berkshire
Hathaway Specialty Insurance Company (formerly known as Stonewall Insurance Company),
1314 Douglas Street, Suite 1400, Omaha, NE 68102. 11.17 E7N
Gifts and Gift Cards
The product descriptions provided here are only brief summaries
and may be changed without notice. The full coverage terms and details, including
limitations and exclusions, are contained in the insurance policy. Travelex CA
Agency License #0D10209. All products listed are underwritten by, Berkshire
Hathaway Specialty Insurance Company (formerly known as Stonewall Insurance Company),
1314 Douglas Street, Suite 1400, Omaha, NE 68102. 11.17 E7N
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