Your holiday adventure begins with festive sparkle and Old World charm. After meeting in Frankfurt, we’ll travel to Heidelberg, a romantic town adorned in twinkling lights. This evening is all about settling in, sipping mulled wine, and diving into the warm glow of Germany’s beloved Christmas markets.

🚌 Airport transfer to Heidelberg from Frankfurt airport 

🏨 Two Nights in Hotel zur Alten Brücke

👗 Attire Tip: Bundle up in cozy layers with a stylish scarf and warm boots

MORNING

Arrival in Frankfurt & Transfer to Heidelberg
We’ll meet at the airport by 1:00 PM and board our private vehicle to Heidelberg, a picturesque drive through winter countryside that takes just over an hour. Along the way, your representative host will share the week’s highlights and help you ease into the festive spirit.

AFTERNOON

Check-In & Christmas Market Introduction
Once we arrive, we’ll check into our boutique hotel, Hotel zur Alten Brücke nestled in Heidelberg’s historic center. After a bit of time to unpack and refresh, we head out to explore the glowing Christmas markets. From Universitätsplatz to Kornmarkt, you’ll wander past rows of festively decorated stalls, fragrant with spiced almonds and sizzling bratwurst.

Tastings Along the Way
Treat yourself to some seasonal specialties: Kartoffelpuffer (crispy potato pancakes), Heisse Schokolade with whipped cream, or Käsespätzle—Germany’s answer to mac and cheese. And don’t forget your first mug of warm Glühwein, served in a collectible market mug.

EVENING

Welcome Dinner at a Local Restaurant
We’ll gather for our first group meal at a cozy local restaurant known for its warm atmosphere and hearty Bavarian dishes. It’s the perfect way to toast to the beginning of our festive journey together.

Optional Walk to the Old Bridge
After dinner, join us for a short stroll to the iconic Alte Brücke (Old Bridge), where a bronze monkey statue invites you to touch its mirror for good luck. With the lights reflecting off the Neckar River, it’s a picture-perfect start to your holiday in Germany.

🛌 Overnight: Heidelberg

Today we step into a true European fairytale, exploring one of Germany’s most romantic towns. From the hilltop splendor of Heidelberg Castle to the cobblestone charm of the Old Town, this day is rich in storybook scenery, local flavor, and festive sparkle.

🚶‍♀️ Walking tour & funicular ride
🏨 Overnight in Heidelberg
👗 Attire Tip: Warm layers and walking shoes for cobblestones and castle grounds

MORNING

Breakfast at the Hotel
Wake up to the scent of fresh-baked bread and coffee, and enjoy a relaxed breakfast to start your day.

Heidelberg Castle & Walking Tour
We begin the day with a scenic funicular ride up the hillside, followed by a guided walking tour of the iconic Heidelberg Castle. You’ll explore the magnificent red sandstone ruins, take in panoramic views of the Neckar River Valley, and visit the famed giant wine barrel. This storybook castle holds centuries of history and offers postcard-perfect views at every turn.

AFTERNOON

Afternoon at the Christmas Markets
This afternoon is all about embracing the festive energy of Heidelberg’s Christmas markets. Wander through stalls adorned with twinkling lights, shop for unique gifts and ornaments, and soak in the holiday cheer. It’s a perfect blend of local tradition and seasonal magic.

Explore & Lunch
With so many food stalls and cozy cafés to choose from, lunch is a choose-your-own adventure. Savor sizzling sausages, sweet crepes, or roasted chestnuts as you stroll with your fellow travelers. Or taste a little of everything—there’s joy in every bite.

EVENING

Dinner Together in the Old Town
As the evening sets in, we’ll wander through the glow of the market stalls - a short walk to dinner as a group. Afterwards, we’ll stroll along the Alte Brucke or Old Bridge where the bronze monkey sits looking in its mirror that you can touch for good luck. Tonight is about exploring together and sharing the joy of the journey.

🛌 Overnight: Heidelberg

Today we journey through the heart of Bavaria, trading one storybook setting for another. From Rothenburg’s medieval walls and festive markets to Nuremberg’s rich history and twinkling lights, it’s a day filled with timeless architecture, seasonal warmth, and that unmistakable old-world magic.

🚌 Scenic transfer from Heidelberg to Nuremberg via Rothenburg
🏨 Two nights in Sorat Hotel Saxx Nürnberg
👗 Attire Tip: Cozy, warm travel outfit and comfortable shoes for strolling through cobblestone towns

🕰️ MORNING

Breakfast at the Hotel

Begin your day with a fresh and hearty breakfast as we prepare to say goodbye to Heidelberg. We will check out of the hotel after breakfast and meet our private driver for our next journey.

Journey to Rothenburg ob der Tauber & Bavarian City
We board our private vehicle and head toward Rothenburg ob der Tauber—one of Germany’s best-preserved medieval towns. The journey winds through snow-kissed countryside, with views of rolling hills and charming villages dotting the landscape.

The Joy of Christmas in Rothenburg
Once inside Rothenburg’s fortified walls, it’s as if time has stood still. Half-timbered houses, cobbled alleys, and twinkling market stalls line the way. You’ll explore the Reiterlesmarkt, wander past shops full of nutcrackers and ornaments, and maybe even step into Käthe Wohlfahrt’s famous Christmas Village—a wonderland of lights, music, and timeless holiday nostalgia.

🕰️ AFTERNOON

Lunch in Rothenburg’s Medieval Town
We’ll pause for lunch at a cozy tavern nestled within the town square. Expect hearty Franconian fare—perhaps a warm bowl of spiced lentil soup or schnitzel with potato salad—and cheerful chatter over mulled wine or sparkling water.

Continue to Nuremberg
After lunch, we continue our drive (about 1.5 hours)  to Nuremberg, arriving in the late afternoon. With its imperial castle, winding lanes, and centuries-old architecture, the city sets the perfect stage for the next chapter of our holiday adventure.

🕰️ EVENING

Check-in & Dinner at Local Restaurant
After settling into our hotel, we’ll head out to a local favorite for a relaxed dinner together. Whether it’s sausages grilled to perfection or seasonal specialties like duck with red cabbage, tonight’s meal is all about warmth, flavour, and connection.

🛌 Overnight: Nuremberg

Nuremberg’s Christkindlesmarkt is Germany’s most iconic—and today, you’ll feel its full magic. From medieval towers to gingerbread stalls, we’ll wander cobbled streets wrapped in festive light. This day blends heritage, history, and pure holiday joy.

🏨 Overnight in Nuremberg
👗 Attire Tip: Bundle up! Today includes walking through historic quarters and chilly markets—layers, warm socks, and a cozy scarf will keep you comfortable.

🕰️ MORNING

Breakfast at the Hotel
Enjoy a classic German breakfast at the hotel before heading out into Nuremberg’s charming Old Town.

Private Walking Tour of Nuremberg
Step into the storybook. Our local guide leads us on a 3-hour private tour through this fortified medieval city. You’ll pass through gothic gates, admire half-timbered homes, and learn about the city’s imperial legacy. Highlights include the Hauptmarkt square, historic churches, and views from Kaiserburg Castle. Then we’ll head to visit the various markets in the area.

Visit the Markets of Nuremberg
Visit Nuremberg’s international Sister Cities Market that has about 20 stalls representing partner cities featuring international crafts and foods from their homelands.This market encourages global understanding and unity. The Nuremberg Christkindlesmarkt is one of the world’s oldest and most well known Christmas markets, lined with over 180 stalls.  

🕰️ AFTERNOON

Lunch on Your Own at the Market
Enjoy lunch on your own at the market. Take your pick from dozens of stalls offering bratwurst grilled over an open flame, fresh-baked pretzels, steaming potato soup, and the city’s beloved lebkuchen (gingerbread). Grab a mug of apple punch or Glühwein and take in the festive energy. This afternoon is yours to stroll around the different markets where many local sweet and savory dishes are available. 

Explore the Christkindlesmarkt
Spend your afternoon browsing the stalls of Germany’s most beloved Christmas market. Whether it’s hand-carved wooden toys, delicate glass baubles, or the sweet scent of candied almonds, every corner offers a new delight. Be sure to visit the International Sister Cities Market in Rathausplatz, where you’ll find global treasures from Nuremberg’s partner cities—from Venice to Shenzhen.

🕰️ EVENING

Dinner at a Local Restaurant
We will meet in the hotel lobby for a short walk to a local restaurant for dinner. Tonight we’ll gather for a cozy meal at one of Nuremberg’s charming restaurants. Then we’ll return to the hotel to prepare for our adventure to Munich the next day. 

🛏️ Overnight: Nuremberg
Drift to sleep knowing the spirit of the season is just getting started.

Today we journey from Nuremberg to two of Bavaria’s brightest jewels. We’ll uncover the UNESCO-listed magic of Regensburg—home to one of Europe’s best-preserved medieval old towns— before arriving in the cosmopolitan glow of Munich. Between regal courtyards and artisan stalls, this is a day of rich history, old-world charm, and meaningful handmade beauty.

🚌 Private transfer: Nuremberg ➝ Regensburg ➝ Munich
🏨 Three nights at Le Méridien Munich
👗 Attire Tip: Comfortable layers and walking shoes for exploring Regensburg’s cobbled streets. Munich in the evening may be colder—bring a hat and gloves.

🕰️ MORNING

Breakfast & Check-Out
Enjoy breakfast at the hotel followed by check-out before departing Nuremberg. Our private vehicle will carry us deeper into southern Germany, past pine forests and riverside villages on the way to Regensburg, about 1 1/4 hours away. 

Arrive in Regensburg
Welcome to one of Europe’s best-preserved medieval towns, a UNESCO site, located on the Danube River. Well preserved architecture from the 11th to 13th centuries creates the character of the town with its tall buildings, dark and narrow alleyways, and strong fortifications and towers. Pastel facades, ancient stone bridges, and Gothic spires set the stage for a timeless winter fairytale. You’ll feel like you’ve stepped back into the 13th century—but with all the magic of Christmas. The Regensburg Cathedral, known for its stained glass windows, is the only example of French Gothic architecture east of the Rhine River. It stands near Old Town and the Old Stone Bridge. 

Lucrezia Craft Market
Next, we’ll explore the Lucrezia Markt, a beloved local tradition known for its heart and artistry. The Lucrezia craft market is the traditional Christmas market on Neupfarrplatz in the heart of the old town. Unlike the larger commercial markets, this one is all about handmade craftsmanship and intimate charm. You’ll wander past stalls filled with ceramics, textiles, hand-bound journals, and natural cosmetics—many created by local female artisans.

🕰️ AFTERNOON

Lunch in Regensburg
We’ll pause for a warm, hearty lunch in the heart of the old city— Savor the flavors of Bavaria in  Regensburg. 

Romantic Christmas Market at Thurn & Taxis Palace
In the afternoon, we arrive at the gates of the Thurn and Taxis Palace—and step into pure holiday magic. This isn’t just a market—it’s a scene pulled straight from a winter fairytale. Set within the private courtyard of a still-inhabited royal residence, the Romantic Christmas Market glows with thousands of tiny golden lights that flicker against the stone palace walls and towering pines. One of the most impressive buildings here is the St. Emmeram Castle, the residence of the aristocratic family. This is not just a market. It’s a feeling. And it will stay with you long after the lights fade.

🕰️ EVENING

Evening Transfer to Munich & Hotel Check In
As the lights of Regensburg fade behind us, we head toward the bright city of Munich, just 90 minutes away, in our private transport. Upon arrival, around 8:30pm, we’ll check-in to Le Méridien Munich, just steps from the heart of the city. 

Dinner on Your Own in Munich
Tonight is yours - to relax and dine at leisure or with others in the group and explore the vibrant city. Feel free to ask your representative for local restaurant suggestions.

🛏️ Overnight: Le Méridien Munich
A modern retreat with spa amenities and walkable access to the city’s top markets. Rest well—tomorrow, we dive into Munich’s festive heart.

Today we’re fully immersed in the vibrant spirit of Munich at Christmastime. From cathedral bells and glockenspiel melodies to twinkling stalls and artisan treasures, this day is all about living the joy of the season. With every step, the city reveals a little more of its festive soul.

🏨 Overnight at Le Méridien Munich
👗 Attire Tip: Cozy layers and weatherproof shoes—today is all on foot and full of holiday sparkle. Don’t forget your camera for some postcard-perfect shots.

🕰️ MORNING

Breakfast at the Hotel
Begin with a warm and hearty Bavarian breakfast, and fuel for the festive fun ahead.

Munich Christmas Markets
Let the sparkle begin. We’ll spend the day exploring the Munich Christmas markets. As we head into Marienplatz, we’ll make a stop at St. Peter’s Church or Alter Peter as it’s known to locals. The Marienplatz transforms into a storybook Christmas village, with over 150 stalls glowing beneath the towering Christmas tree. From hand-painted ornaments and wooden toys to steaming mugs of Glühwein and cinnamon-sugar almonds, there’s something to delight all your senses.

St. Peter’s Church Tower Climb (Optional)
For those craving a panoramic moment, climb the 306 steps of Alter Peter for sweeping views across the rooftops and snowy peaks in the distance. For those who want to see from above, we’ll go up. No elevator is available, but the climb is worth every step!

At St. Peter’s Church, just a few steps from Marienplatz, is Germany’s largest Kripperlmarkt the “market of the holy manger” where you can purchase handmade Nativity scenes. Another fun market is the Christmas Village in the city palace, Kaiserhof Residenz, where you can watch talented artisans such as goldsmiths, fur tanners and glassblowers as they work. 

🕰️ AFTERNOON

Lunch on Your Own
Choose from cozy cafés, market food stalls, or a hearty Bavarian beer hall.

🕰️ EVENING

Dinner Together at a Local Restaurant
Tonight we’ll gather for a festive dinner in one of our favorite local spots— we’ll toast to sisterhood, stories, and the magic that comes when women gather around a shared table.

🛏️ Overnight: Le Méridien Munich
Rest your feet and your heart in this peaceful modern haven, just steps from the city’s soul.

Today feels like stepping into a snow globe. We journey into the foothills of the Bavarian Alps to visit the legendary Neuschwanstein Castle—the real-life inspiration for Disney’s Sleeping Beauty castle. From turreted towers to snowy forests and a horse-drawn carriage ride, this day is a dreamy exhale of beauty, wonder, and imagination.

🚌 Private day trip to Schwangau & Hohenschwangau

🏨 Overnight at Le Méridien Munich

👗 Attire Tip: Warm layers, gloves, and boots with grip—there may be snow!

🕰️ MORNING

Breakfast at the Hotel
Enjoy a cozy breakfast before heading out into the crisp alpine air. We’ll depart early for Schwangau, a picturesque village nestled near the Austrian border—about two hours away by private vehicle.

Scenic Drive to the Alps
Watch as the landscape shifts from cityscape to storybook—rolling hills give way to snow-dusted peaks and alpine lakes, dotted with sleepy villages and onion-domed churches.

Guided Tour of Neuschwanstein and Hohenschwangau Castles
Prepare to be swept away. Built by the mysterious King Ludwig II, Neuschwanstein is a fantasy of turrets, frescoes, and gilded halls perched high above the valley. Inside, you’ll explore the Throne Room, Singer’s Hall, and the king’s surreal bedchamber—every detail inspired by Wagnerian opera and medieval mythology. The Hohenschwangau Palace is where King Ludwig II spent his childhood and served as the romantic summer and hunting residence for the Bavarian royal family.

Horse-Drawn Carriage to Neuschwanstein
From the base of the mountain, we board a horse-drawn carriage and clip-clop our way through the forest toward the castle. Blankets, pine-scented air, and frosty branches overhead—it’s as enchanting as it sounds.

🕰️ AFTERNOON

Lunch in the Bavarian Alps
Between castle visits, we’ll enjoy a warm, scenic lunch together. 

🕰️ EVENING

Return to Munich
We’ll arrive back in the city by early evening. Take time to rest, refresh, and reflect on the dreamlike wonder of the day.

Dinner
We will meet in the hotel lobby and walk together to dinner.  

🛏️ Overnight: Le Méridien Munich
Sleep like royalty after your day among kings and castles.

This morning, we say farewell to the festive streets, cozy markets, and castle dreams of Germany. But the memories we’ve created—the laughter, the late-night Glühwein chats, the quiet awe—will stay with us long after the bags are packed.

🚌 Private transfer to Munich Airport (MUC)
👗 Attire Tip: Comfortable travel wear and layers. Be sure to have your travel documents easily accessible.

🕰️ MORNING

Breakfast at the Hotel
Enjoy one final breakfast in Munich. Pause and take in the moment. You did this. You showed up, embraced the season, and created something beautiful.

Farewell Hugs & Airport Transfers
Your private transfer will take you to Munich International Airport with plenty of time for check-in. As you ride through the city one last time, watch the rooftops and spires fade in the soft morning light—and carry a heart full of winter magic with you.

Optional: Airport Christmas Market

Yes—there’s even one last market at the airport! If time allows, wander through the stalls one more time, pick up a last-minute gift, or sip one final mulled wine in your collector mug. The Munich Airport’s Holiday Market is located between Terminals 1 and 2. 

💛 Final Note
This wasn’t just a holiday trip—it was a chapter in your story. A week of sisterhood, sparkle, and slowing down. Thank you for choosing to spend it with The Dandelion Journals. We can’t wait to travel with you again.