The Magic Journey Collection: European Christmas Markets
Welcome to The Magic Journey Collection, where we share real itineraries we’ve planned and booked for our clients, bringing their dream vacations and bucket-list experiences to life. From Disney adventures to magical destinations worldwide, we’re passionate about crafting unforgettable journeys tailored to each traveler’s vision.
Susan’s Dream Christmas Market Adventure Across Europe
Susan had always dreamed of experiencing Europe’s enchanting Christmas markets. We first met her as part of a Disney Food & Wine Festival trip we planned for three adult couples—traveling to Disney without the kids and grandkids. As we wrapped up those plans, she asked if we arranged trips beyond Disney—a favorite question for some of our team! While we love creating Disney magic, we also thrive on planning journeys like Susan’s, exploring the world and making travel dreams come true in real-life magical destinations.
With a week off in November, Susan was set to embark on her Christmas market adventure, ready to go solo until two close friends eagerly joined, turning her solo trip into a festive girls’ getaway. Together, we crafted an itinerary that captured Europe’s best holiday markets in cities that would come alive with seasonal cheer just as they arrived.
Read on to discover the magical itinerary we designed, filled with enchanting holiday markets, scenic train rides, and unforgettable experiences tailored to make this a truly special journey.
Budapest, the 'Paris of the East,' shines brightly along the Danube during the holiday season.
Budapest: Christmas Market Magic in Hungary’s Capital
Budapest, often referred to as the "Paris of the East," is a city that boasts rich history, stunning architecture, and vibrant thermal baths. Nestled along the banks of the Danube River, it’s known for its captivating blend of Gothic, Renaissance, and Baroque architecture, along with its thriving café culture and atmospheric ruin bars. The Hungarian capital draws visitors from around the world with iconic sites like the Buda Castle, Fisherman’s Bastion, and the grand Hungarian Parliament building, which create a skyline unlike any other. Visiting Budapest feels like stepping into a city full of old-world charm, where history and contemporary culture harmonize.
Around the holidays, Budapest takes on a magical feel. The city’s main Christmas markets are known for their cozy, welcoming atmosphere, where visitors can sip hot mulled wine, enjoy traditional Hungarian treats, and browse handmade crafts in festive, lantern-lit stalls. The scents of roasting chestnuts and cinnamon waft through the air, and locals and visitors alike come together to celebrate the season. The city is beautifully illuminated, with lights decorating the streets and landmarks. For Susan and her friends, Budapest is the perfect introduction to European Christmas markets.
The friends will spend three days exploring Budapest, immersing themselves in the festive atmosphere and taking in all the historic sights, markets, and culinary highlights that the city has to offer before moving on to the next destination.
Hotel Selection: Aria Hotel Budapest by Library Hotel Collection
Staying at the Aria Hotel Budapest—a luxurious retreat in the heart of the city, perfect for exploring Christmas markets and Hungarian culture.
For their stay in Budapest, Susan and her friends chose the Aria Hotel, renowned for its music-inspired design and luxurious amenities. Located in the historic district, the Aria provides easy access to major sites, including St. Stephen’s Basilica and Vörösmarty Square. Each room celebrates a musical genre, and the hotel’s rooftop bar offers panoramic city views, allowing guests to take in Budapest’s beauty from above. It’s an ideal setting to unwind after a day of holiday exploring.
Destination Highlights and Activities
Vörösmarty Square Christmas Market
As Budapest’s largest and most popular Christmas market, Vörösmarty Square comes alive with the spirit of the holidays. Here, Susan and her friends will stroll through rows of wooden stalls offering handmade gifts, pottery, and leather goods. The market has a lively feel, with traditional music performances adding to the festive atmosphere. Hungarian treats like chimney cakes and goulash are must-tries for a true taste of the culture.
Strolling through Budapest's Vörösmarty Square Christmas Market, a holiday haven filled with Hungarian treats, handmade crafts, and festive cheer.
St. Stephen’s Basilica Christmas Market
Known for its stunning light projections, the market at St. Stephen’s Basilica is an enchanting experience in a more intimate setting. Here, they can browse artisanal goods and savor treats like sweet rétes (strudels). The iconic basilica illuminated against the night sky provides a breathtaking backdrop, and the festive ambiance is ideal for an evening outing.
The enchanting light projections at St. Stephen’s Basilica Christmas Market make for a magical Budapest holiday experience.
Budapest Food Walking Tour
To experience Budapest’s culinary heritage, Susan and her friends will join a food walking tour, tasting classic Hungarian dishes like goulash, lángos (fried bread topped with sour cream and cheese), and Tokaji wine. The tour will also introduce them to hidden gems and authentic eateries, offering insight into the flavors and influences that define Hungarian cuisine.
Experiencing the authentic flavors of Budapest on a food walking tour through iconic spots.
Train Journey: Budapest to Vienna
The train journey from Budapest to Vienna is not only convenient but also scenic and relaxing, making it a memorable part of the experience. Susan and her friends will take a high-speed train that whisks them from Budapest’s Keleti Station to Vienna in just under 2.5 hours. As they settle into their first-class seats, they’ll be able to enjoy wide windows that reveal beautiful views of the countryside. Rolling hills, charming villages, and perhaps a dusting of early winter snow create an idyllic scene as they travel from Hungary into Austria.
Taking the scenic route from Budapest to Vienna by train, with picturesque views of the countryside.
European trains are known for their comfort, and first class provides an elevated experience with spacious seating, ample legroom, and access to refreshments. The train’s quiet ambiance allows for conversation or a peaceful moment to watch the passing landscapes. Arriving in Vienna’s main station, they’ll step into a city with a distinctly elegant atmosphere, setting the tone for their next few days exploring Austria’s renowned holiday markets.
Vienna’s rich heritage and grand holiday celebrations make it a top destination for Christmas markets
Vienna: Elegance, History, and Holiday Splendor
Vienna is famed for its opulent architecture, classical music legacy, and rich cultural heritage. Known as the City of Music, it has inspired legendary composers like Mozart, Beethoven, and Strauss. Today, Vienna enchants visitors with its palaces, grand opera houses, and sophisticated cafés that continue the city’s legacy of elegance. The Ringstrasse, a historic circular boulevard, is lined with monumental buildings, gardens, and statues, showcasing Vienna’s architectural grandeur.
In November, Vienna becomes a winter wonderland, and its holiday markets are among the most celebrated in Europe. The streets are adorned with lights, and markets pop up in historical squares, with Rathausplatz and Schönbrunn Palace offering two of the most enchanting settings. Susan and her friends will have the chance to explore Vienna’s famed coffeehouses, browse festive stalls, and even attend a classical concert, making Vienna a highlight of their holiday adventure.
They will have four days to enjoy Vienna, taking in both the famous Christmas markets and the city’s rich artistic and architectural wonders, before making a day trip to Salzburg.
Hotel Selection: Steigenberger Hotel Herrenhof Wien
The Steigenberger Hotel Herrenhof is the perfect choice for Susan and her friends. Located in the heart of Vienna, this hotel combines historic charm with modern amenities. Known for its warm ambiance and luxurious décor, it places guests near Vienna’s main attractions, including St. Stephen’s Cathedral and the Rathausplatz market. The hotel’s classic Austrian style and proximity to cultural landmarks make it an ideal base for exploring Vienna.
Destination Highlights and Activities
Rathausplatz Christkindlmarkt
The market at Rathausplatz is one of Europe’s most renowned Christmas markets, attracting visitors from all over. Surrounded by Vienna’s city hall and offering over 150 stalls, the market exudes holiday cheer. Here, Susan and her friends can sample roasted chestnuts, warm punch, and traditional Viennese treats while browsing for unique holiday gifts. The market’s lights and lively atmosphere make it a must-see during their stay.
Exploring Vienna’s Rathausplatz Christkindlmarkt, one of Europe’s most famous Christmas markets with charming holiday stalls and seasonal treats.
Schönbrunn Palace Christmas Market
Set against the stunning backdrop of Schönbrunn Palace, this market offers an intimate, picturesque experience. They’ll find artisanal goods, handmade ornaments, and local delicacies, all surrounded by the baroque beauty of the palace. A choir singing holiday carols enhances the experience, making this market a charming contrast to the bustling Rathausplatz.
The stunning Schönbrunn Palace Christmas Market is a festive delight with its baroque architecture and holiday ambiance.
Private Food Walking Tour
Vienna’s culinary scene is steeped in tradition, and a private food walking tour will allow Susan and her friends to sample the best of Viennese cuisine. They’ll try traditional sausages at Naschmarkt, pastries from historic bakeries, and, of course, the iconic Sacher Torte. The tour will take them through Vienna’s famous coffee culture, showcasing the city’s mix of street food, café classics, and artisan treats.
Indulging in Vienna’s culinary delights on a food walking tour, sampling pastries and Viennese coffee.
Salzburg: A Winter Wonderland in the Alps
One of the highlights of their trip is a day trip to Salzburg, a picturesque city renowned for its baroque architecture, alpine surroundings, and deep cultural roots. Salzburg’s quaint cobblestone streets and historic buildings, nestled against the Alps, create a storybook setting, especially during the holiday season. Known as the birthplace of Mozart and a filming location for The Sound of Music, Salzburg has a timeless charm that captures the imagination.
Destination Highlights and Activities
Cathedral Square Christmas Market
Salzburg’s Cathedral Square is a charming market known for its cozy, welcoming feel. Wooden stalls offer handmade crafts, warm beverages, and local treats like lebkuchen (gingerbread). The market’s setting against Salzburg’s baroque cathedral and snow-covered rooftops gives it a distinctly festive charm, making it one of the city’s most picturesque holiday spots.
A winter wonderland in Salzburg’s Cathedral Square Christmas Market, with festive stalls and alpine charm.
Hohensalzburg Fortress
Perched high above Salzburg, Hohensalzburg Fortress provides sweeping views of the city and the surrounding Alps. This medieval fortress, one of the largest in Europe, offers a fascinating journey into Salzburg’s history. For Susan and her friends, exploring the fortress will add an adventurous element to their day, blending breathtaking scenery with rich historical insight.
Exploring Hohensalzburg Fortress and taking in breathtaking views of Salzburg and the Alps.
Sound of Music and Mozart Tour
As fans of The Sound of Music, they’ll enjoy visiting famous filming locations, including Mirabell Gardens and Leopoldskron Palace. The tour also takes them to Mozart’s birthplace, offering a look into the composer’s life and legacy. This exploration of Salzburg’s cultural landmarks adds a nostalgic and whimsical touch to their day.
Exploring iconic Sound of Music filming locations in Salzburg, including Mirabell Gardens and Leopoldskron Palace, set against the stunning Austrian Alps.
Day 8: Farewell to Vienna
On their final day, Susan and her friends will enjoy breakfast at the Steigenberger Hotel Herrenhof, savoring one last taste of Vienna’s coffeehouse culture. They’ll spend the morning taking a final stroll through the holiday-lit streets, shopping for keepsakes and snapping photos to capture the spirit of the trip.
After heartfelt goodbyes, Susan will head back to New York, while her two friends continue on to Italy for the next leg of their adventure, adding even more memories to their European holiday.
At Magic Journeys, we’re passionate about bringing dream vacations to life, carefully crafting itineraries that are as unique as the travelers themselves. From magical European Christmas markets to unforgettable adventures worldwide, our team’s expertise ensures every detail is thoughtfully planned. If you’re inspired by Susan’s journey, reach out and share your own dream trip—we can’t wait to start planning together! Stay tuned for more custom itineraries in our Magic Journeys Collection to spark your travel imagination.
