Best Christmas Markets of Europe: Budapest to Bucharest

Best Christmas Markets of Europe: Budapest to Bucharest

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15 Days From

$4378

$2339

Best Christmas Markets of Europe: Budapest to Bucharest

15 Days Starting in Budapest, Hungary and ending in Bucharest, Romania

Visiting: Budapest, Castle District, Budapest, Vienna, Salzburg, Bucharest, Palace of the Parliament, Bucharest, National Village Museum, Bucharest, Old Town, Bucharest, Cozia Monastery, Sibiu, Rășinari, Sighisoara, Brasov, Bran Castle, Brașov, Sinaia, Peles Castle

Tour operator:

Travel Talk Tours

Tour code:

XM8

Guide Type:

Fully Guided

Group size:

25 - 30

Physical rating:

Easy

Age range:

18-70

Special diets catered:

Vegetarians

Tour operated in:

English

Trip Styles:

Special Events

Activities:

Shopping, Sightseeing

From: $4378 $2339 (USD) Operator discount: -$1970 Tourhub's Discount: -$69 -47%

NB: Prices correct on 24-Apr-2025 but subject to change.

This tour is no longer available, please see similar tours below or send an enquiry

Tour Overview

Embark on a festive journey through the heart of Europe with the "Best Christmas Markets of Europe: Budapest to Bucharest" tour. This cultural and youth-focused adventure takes you from the vibrant streets of Budapest to the enchanting charm of Bucharest, with stops in Bratislava, Vienna, Salzburg, Munich, and more. Experience the magic of Europe's most famous Christmas markets, where you can indulge in local delicacies, shop for unique gifts, and soak up the festive atmosphere. Enjoy guided city tours, explore iconic landmarks like Bran Castle and Peles Castle, and relax in 4-star accommodations with complimentary Wi-Fi. With air-conditioned transportation and the expertise of local guides, this tour offers a seamless and unforgettable holiday experience. Whether you're wandering through Vienna's historic streets or exploring the medieval charm of Sighisoara, this tour promises a delightful blend of culture, history, and holiday spirit.

Highlights

  • Explore Budapest's vibrant nightlife and traditional Hungarian cuisine.

  • Discover the stunning architecture and thermal baths of Budapest.

  • Visit the charming streets of Bratislava and Vienna's famous landmarks.

  • Experience the enchanting Christmas markets in Vienna and Salzburg.

  • Explore Salzburg's baroque architecture and musical heritage.

  • Enjoy Munich's rich cultural heritage and festive Christmas markets.

  • Tour Bucharest's main sights, including the Palace of the Parliament.

  • Visit the iconic Bran Castle, known as Dracula's Castle.

Itinerary

Expand All

Day 1: Budapest

Budapest
Budapest
Budapest Parliament

Location: Budapest

Accommodation Name: Leonardo Hotel - 4 Star

Welcome to Budapest, Hungary's capital city.

This beautiful city is situated on both sides of the Danube River and offers a wonderful mix of history, culture, and natural beauty.

Upon arrival, meet your group and enjoy an evening of exploring Budapest's vibrant nightlife and sampling traditional Hungarian cuisine.





Accommodation

Leonardo Hotel - 4 Star

Included Activities

Welcome Meeting

Optional Activities

Group Dinner

Day 2: Budapest

Budapest
Budapest
Budapest Parliament

Location: Budapest, Castle District, Budapest

Accommodation Name: Leonardo Hotel - 4 Star

Meals Included: Breakfast

After breakfast, join your tour leader for an orientation walk around Budapest.

This stunning city is known for its stunning architecture, thermal baths, and rich cultural history.

Explore the Castle District, take a dip in one of the thermal baths, and check out the local Christmas markets, where you can find everything from traditional Hungarian crafts to mulled wine and sweet treats.





Accommodation

Leonardo Hotel - 4 Star

Meals Included

Breakfast

Included Activities

Budapest City Tour

Optional Activities

Danube River Cruise at Night - €25

St.

Andrea City Visit - €30

Day 3: Budapest, Bratislava, Vienna

Budapest
Budapest
Budapest Parliament

Location: Budapest

Accommodation Name: Arcotel Kaiserwasser Hotel or Austria Trend Hotel Ananas - 4 Star

Meals Included: Breakfast

Today, you'll travel to three different cities: Budapest, Bratislava, and Vienna.

Explore the charming streets of Bratislava, Slovakia's capital, and then continue on to Vienna, Austria's capital.

Take a walking tour with your tour leader to see some of Vienna's most famous landmarks, such as St.

Stephen's Cathedral and the Hofburg Palace.

In the evening, visit the Christmas markets, where you can sample local delicacies and buy unique gifts.





Accommodation

Arcotel Kaiserwasser Hotel or Austria Trend Hotel Ananas - 4 Star

Meals Included

Breakfast

Included Activities

Vienna City Tour

Day 4: Vienna

Vienna, Austria
Vienna, Austria

Location: Vienna

Accommodation Name: Arcotel Kaiserwasser Hotel or Austria Trend Hotel Ananas - 4 Star

Meals Included: Breakfast

Spend the day exploring Vienna's many attractions, such as the Hofburg Palace, St.

Stephen's Cathedral, and the Schönbrunn Palace.

In the evening, head to one of the city's many Christmas markets, where you can enjoy festive treats and shop for unique gifts, including handmade crafts and traditional sweets.





Accommodation

Arcotel Kaiserwasser Hotel or Austria Trend Hotel Ananas - 4 Star

Meals Included

Breakfast

Optional Activities

Schonbrunn Palace (Imperial Tour) - €50

Danube Tower - €30

Day 5: Vienna, Salzburg

Vienna, Austria
Vienna, Austria

Location: Vienna

Accommodation Name: Theater Hotel - 4 star

Meals Included: Breakfast

Travel from Vienna to Salzburg, a picturesque city nestled in the Austrian Alps.

Salzburg is known for its stunning baroque architecture, rich musical heritage, and enchanting Christmas markets.

Upon arrival, take an orientation walk with your group leader to explore the city's many attractions, such as the Mirabell Palace and Gardens and the Hohensalzburg Fortress.





Accommodation

Theater Hotel - 4 star

Meals Included

Breakfast

Included Activities

Salzburg City Tour

Day 6: Salzburg

Salzburg, Austria

Location: Salzburg

Accommodation Name: Theater Hotel - 4 star

Meals Included: Breakfast

Today, you have the freedom to explore Salzburg and the surrounding areas at your leisure.

One option is to visit the salt mine in Berchtesgaden, nestled in the German Alps.

Alternatively, you may wish to delve into the world of the von Trapp family from the iconic movie "The Sound of Music" by visiting popular filming locations like Mirabell Gardens, Pegasus Fountain, Leopoldskron Palace, and Hellbrunn Palace.

Later in the day, consider returning to the lively Christmas markets to soak up more of the festive atmosphere.





Accommodation

Theater Hotel - 4 star

Meals Included

Breakfast

Optional Activities

House of Mozart - €25

Salzbergwerk Berchtesgaden Salt Mine - €40

Day 7: Salzburg, Munich

Salzburg, Austria

Location: Salzburg

Accommodation Name: Holiday Inn Westpark - 4 Star

Meals Included: Breakfast

Are you ready to say goodbye to Salzburg and head to Munich, Germany's third-largest city? Munich is known for its rich cultural heritage, stunning architecture, and world-famous Oktoberfest.

Upon arrival, take an orientation walk with your group leader to explore the city's many attractions, including the Marienplatz, Frauenkirche, and Viktualienmarkt.

In the evening, head to one of Munich's many Christmas markets, where you can enjoy festive treats and traditional Bavarian beer.





Accommodation

Holiday Inn Westpark - 4 Star

Meals Included

Breakfast

Included Activities

Munich City Tour

Optional Activities

Allianz Arena FC Bayern Museum & Arena Tour - €40

Hofbrauhaus - Bavarian Dinner Night - €45

Day 8: Munich, Bucharest ( By Flight )

Location: Bucharest

Accommodation Name: Hotel Mercure Unirii – 4 Star

Meals Included: Breakfast

Are you ready to say goodbye to Munich and fly to Bucharest? Upon arrival, enjoy some free time to explore the city's famous landmarks.

Whether you choose to wander through grand boulevards, discover hidden courtyards, or relax at a charming café, there's no shortage of ways to soak up the local atmosphere.

Let your curiosity guide you as you get your first taste of Romania's vibrant capital.





Accommodation

Hotel Mercure Unirii – 4 Star

Meals Included

Breakfast

Day 9: Bucharest City Tour

Location: Bucharest, Palace of the Parliament, Bucharest, National Village Museum, Bucharest, Old Town, Bucharest

Accommodation Name: Hotel Mercure Unirii – 4 Star

Meals Included: Breakfast

After breakfast, take a guided tour of Bucharest to see the city's main sights, such as the Palace of the Parliament and the National Village Museum.

In the afternoon, visit Bucharest's Christmas markets, such as the one in the Old Town, to sample local food and drink and pick up some souvenirs.





Accommodation

Hotel Mercure Unirii – 4 Star

Meals Included

Breakfast

Included Activities

Bucharest City Tour

Day 10: Cozia Monastery, Sibiu Old Town & Christmas Market

Location: Cozia Monastery, Sibiu

Accommodation Name: Hotel Golden Tulip Ana Tower – 4 Star

Meals Included: Breakfast

Begin your morning with a visit to Cozia Monastery, a striking and historic Orthodox site nestled in serene surroundings.

After a guided tour, continue your journey to Sibiu, where you'll explore the enchanting Old Town with a local guide.

Stroll through cobbled streets adorned with festive lights, and immerse yourself in the magic of the renowned Christmas market—an ideal spot to sample local delicacies and seasonal treats.





Accommodation

Hotel Golden Tulip Ana Tower – 4 Star

Meals Included

Breakfast

Included Activities

Visit to Cozia Monastery

Sibiu Sightseeing

Day 11: Rasinari Tram, Sibiu

Location: Rășinari

Accommodation Name: Hotel Golden Tulip Ana Tower – 4 Star

Meals Included: Breakfast

Hop aboard the nostalgic Rasinari Tram and journey through scenic landscapes to the quaint village of Rasinari.

There, step into a local museum to gain insight into the region's traditional way of life.

Later, return to Sibiu with time to soak up the festive charm of the Christmas market or wander through other captivating corners of the city at your own pace.





Accommodation

Hotel Golden Tulip Ana Tower – 4 Star

Meals Included

Breakfast

Included Activities

Rasinari Sightseeing

Day 12: Sighisoara, Brasov City Tour & Christmas Market

Location: Sighisoara, Brasov

Accommodation Name: Hotel Ambient – 4 Star

Meals Included: Breakfast

Visit the medieval city of Sighisoara, birthplace of Vlad the Impaler (also known as Dracula).

Take a walking tour of the town, including the Clock Tower Museum, and enjoy lunch at a local restaurant.

In the afternoon, travel to Brasov for a city tour and visit the Christmas market in the evening.





Accommodation

Hotel Ambient – 4 Star

Meals Included

Breakfast

Included Activities

Visit to Brasov

Sighisoara Sightseeing

Day 13: Bran Castle, Brasov

Location: Bran Castle, Brașov

Accommodation Name: Hotel Ambient – 4 Star

Meals Included: Breakfast

Step into legend with a visit to the iconic Bran Castle—famously known as Dracula's Castle.

Uncover the rich history and eerie tales that surround this striking fortress.

In the afternoon, return to Brașov and enjoy some free time to explore the city's charming streets or indulge in a bit of festive Christmas shopping.





Accommodation

Hotel Ambient – 4 Star

Meals Included

Breakfast

Included Activities

Visit to Bran Castle

Day 14: Sinaia, Peles Castle, Bucharest

Location: Sinaia, Peles Castle, Bucharest

Accommodation Name: Hotel Mercure Unirii – 4 Star

Meals Included: Breakfast

Journey to the picturesque town of Sinaia to explore the stunning PeleÈ™ Castle, a masterpiece of Neo-Renaissance architecture nestled in the Carpathian Mountains.

After the guided tour, return to Bucharest for one last chance to soak up the festive spirit with some Christmas market shopping and final sightseeing.





Accommodation

Hotel Mercure Unirii – 4 Star

Meals Included

Breakfast

Included Activities

Visit to Peles Castle

Day 15: Bucharest

Location: Bucharest

Meals Included: Breakfast

Check out of your accommodation and say goodbye to your fellow travelers.

If you have some extra time, you may want to visit some of Bucharest's other attractions.

When it's time to depart, your tour leader will be on hand to offer any assistance with transport arrangements or recommendations for further travel in the region.





Meals Included

Breakfast

What's Included

  • Accommodation

    Stay in 4-star hotels throughout the tour.

  • Meals

    Enjoy 14 breakfasts during the tour.

  • Transportation

    Travel by air-conditioned coach or mini-bus and a flight from Munich to Bucharest.

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What's Not Included

  • Optional Activities

    Optional activities such as the Danube River Cruise, Schonbrunn Palace tour, and others are not included in the tour price.

  • Local Payment

    Local payments are not included in the tour price.

Mode of Transport

Travel in style and comfort with air-conditioned coaches or mini-buses, and enjoy a flight from Munich to Bucharest, ensuring a seamless and enjoyable journey between destinations.

Accommodation

Enjoy your stay in luxurious 4-star hotels throughout the tour, including the Leonardo Hotel in Budapest, Arcotel Kaiserwasser Hotel in Vienna, and Hotel Mercure Unirii in Bucharest, ensuring comfort and relaxation after each day's adventures.

Add Ons

Local Payment: £0

Check out our Q&As

  • What type of accommodation is provided during the tour?

    The tour provides accommodation in 4-star hotels throughout the journey.

  • What meals are included in the tour package?

    The tour package includes 14 breakfasts.

  • What kind of transportation is used during the tour?

    Transportation is provided by an air-conditioned coach or mini-bus, and there is a flight from Munich to Bucharest.

  • Are there any guided tours included in the itinerary?

    Yes, the tour includes guided city tours in Budapest, Vienna, Salzburg, Munich, Bucharest, Sibiu, Brasov, and visits to Cozia Monastery, Sighisoara, and Bran Castle.

  • Is there free Wi-Fi available during the tour?

    Complimentary hotel Wi-Fi access is available where possible.

  • What activities are available at the Christmas markets during the tour?

    At the Christmas markets, you can sample local delicacies, enjoy festive treats, shop for unique gifts, and experience the local culture and traditions.

  • Do you operate a “single share” option and how does it work?

    There are always single travellers on our tours. If you don't mind being roomed with another single traveller of the same gender, then you do not need to pay a single supplement, however, this excludes all of our North American tours where the sharing option for a solo traveller is not available, and the single supplement must be applied if you are travelling alone. The single supplement is for travellers who would like to stay in a private room for the duration of the tour. PLEASE NOTE: The single private option is not always available, especially for sailing tours and camping.

  • Who will be my travelling companions on the tour?

    Our tours are suitable for any traveller above 18 years old. The majority of Travel Talkers are from the United Kingdom, Australia, New Zealand, USA, Canada or Europe, however we always have travellers from all over the world. What brings them together is a passion for travel, discovering authentic cultures and experiencing unique adventures with like-minded travellers.

  • What Ethical Travel credentials does the tour company have?

    At Travel Talk, we believe that travel is a force for good and show our support through various initiatives and charity organizations, as well as keeping the principals of responsible and sustainable travel at the core of our ethos. These values are engrained in our business culture and the design of our trips just the same. Together with our guests, we strive to make a positive impact on local p

  • How long has the tour company been trading?

    Over 20 years

Reviews of this operator

Jessie Mae Sia  

My travel talk experience was great and memorable

24-Feb-2021

My travel talk experience was awesome and fantastic. Me and my husband was on their Morocco and Turkey tours in 2019, they operated their tours in a culturally fun manner and the tour guides were very nice and very approachable. It exceeded our expection, we love to come back with them in our future travel. Thank you travel talk you made our 2019 as one of our memorable year!

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Paul Gash (Google Reviewer)  

Just about to finish our...

29-Mar-2025

Just about to finish our first ever Travel Talk Tour. Our tour was 9 days across the Balkans. What an amazing experience from start to finish. Visited some amazing, historical places, ate superb food, met wonderful people but what made the tour even better was Simon, our tour leader. We can't write enough superlatives for him. So will just say amazing. Also a special mention to our driver Pero. To stay so calm with the mad drivers on the roads of the Balkans deserves a medal on its own. Never felt in danger at any time. Both are a credit to this company. 5 stars all round.

Jes Snowden (Google Reviewer)  

The Best of Turkey by...

10-Sep-2024

The Best of Turkey by Land was fantastic! If it’s a “tour” of Turkey you’re seeking, this one is the pick of them all. We travelled to the most spectacular locations, and experienced breathtaking moments and views, in every stop! Our tour guide Mustafa was very knowledgeable and talked us through the history of the land. He was friendly and very patient, considering the hours he puts into his tours. Mus was able to swap the days activities for some days to ensure we were given the best opportunity for photo’s and leas tourists in other locations. Our bus drivers did an amazing job getting us to all locations safely! Thank you Ahmet & Ali, you are superstars… Highlights for us were Gallipoli, Ephesus, Pamukkale, Fethyie and hot air ballooning in Cappadocia. The group consisted of all ages, which worked out to be a good mix. The weather varied between 25 - 36 degrees throughout the trip, so be sure to pack the sunscreen and portable fan. Hotels varied, each one having it’s own idiosyncrasies, but overall very good. Some of the days were extremely long but we got through them.. I’d recommend this tour to anyone that wants a taste of the beautiful land that Turkey is ☺️

Courtney Godden (Google Reviewer)  

First time doing a tour...

28-Jul-2024

First time doing a tour overseas, wow what an amazing experience. Smaller tour group which was awesome, great hotel choices, professional transportation services and saw the best of Turkey in 12 days. Our tour guide Aykut's hospitality was second to none, he went above and beyond for every member of the group. His knowledge of his country's history and culture was outstanding and explained in a memorable way for a lasting memory. Aykut's has extensive experience as a tour guide and it shows in every way, many special tips from living/growing up in Turkey. Aykut's planning meant everything ran smoothly making our only job to turn up with your belongings and enjoy your experience. Thank you again Aykut for going the extra mile, making sure places had gluten free options for me and for all the funny jokes ☺️

elle mcdowell (Google Reviewer)  

We had an amazing time...

10-Jul-2024

We had an amazing time on our 12 day tour of Turkey! Our guide Yild was attentive, always was there to help us make the most of our trip and great fun! Would definitely recommend this tour to others!!

Stephani Ferrari Dalto (Google Reviewer)  

I’m about to finish my...

18-Oct-2024

I’m about to finish my Essential Turkey trip with Travel Talk (October 12th- for 10 days) and had an amazing experience! Our guide Mustafa was fantastic. He took care of every little detail and made sure everyone in our group (42 people, a great mix of ages) was happy and well looked after. I traveled with my mom, and this trip was the perfect way to get a quick, but comprehensive, view of what Turkey has to offer. This was my second time with Travel Talk, and I would definitely choose them again for future adventures!

Samantha Treadwell (Google Reviewer)  

Such an UNREAL EXPERIENCE! I...

13-Aug-2024

Such an UNREAL EXPERIENCE! I cannot recommend the best of Turkey by Gulet for 12 day tour enough. On this tour we were able to see all parts of turkey from the coast line to the major cities and immerse ourselves in the culture and history! Mustafa is the best tour guide who priorities experiences, learning and safety of all tour participants (he also doubles as a comedian so ensures many laughs are had). From sailing on the Mediterranean Sea, experiencing the best food and culture in Istanbul, to paragliding over Pamukkale springs, and finally ticking off the bucket list moment of hot air ballooning over Cappadocia, this has been a trip not to forget. I cannot recommend this tour enough and would encourage anyone going to turkey to book this trip with Travel Talk!

Steph Burnettt (Google Reviewer)  

Thank you Mustafa & Travel...

06-Oct-2024

Thank you Mustafa & Travel Talk for an extraordinary 10 day trip of Turkey. A beautiful country indeed. We had a great time visiting all the sites. Mustafa’s sense of humour and abundance of knowledge made it all the more enjoyable. Definitely recommend this tour.

Victoria McCullough (Google Reviewer)  

I did the travel talk...

26-Aug-2024

I did the travel talk turkey tour with mus. He's an awesome guide full of local knowledge. There had been wild fires at Gallipoli so rearranged our itinerary to allow us a chance to visit which we did! I spent 3 days on the gulet and was a great way to relax. Would highly recommend the tour as a way to visit turkey and would do it again.

Aixa Rey (Google Reviewer)  

During my trip to Turkey,...

29-Mar-2025

During my trip to Turkey, I had an incredible experience with Mustafa. All my expectations for the trip were exceeded. The breathtakingly beautiful Turkish landscape and the incredibly welcoming and kind people made my trip truly unforgettable. Mustafa provided the perfect balance of guidance and free time to explore, making the tour fantastic. The air balloon ride was an unforgettable experience, and the Turkish bath was a perfect way to relax during the tour. The thermal bath was equally relaxing. The impressive ruins at Ephesus offered a glimpse into the rich history of the region. The experience in Istanbul was amazing, with its extensive history and precious sites. Overall, I highly recommend this trip to anyone who has Turkey on their bucket list.

1 Select your preferred date

Friday - Friday

Dec 05, 2025 - Dec 19, 2025
$4378 $2339 (USD)

Operator discount: -$1970 (USD)

Tourhub's Discount: -$69 (USD)

Friday - Friday

Dec 04, 2026 - Dec 18, 2026
$4378 $2339 (USD)

Operator discount: -$1970 (USD)

Tourhub's Discount: -$69 (USD)

Book with Confidence

  • Low Deposit

    Travel Talk Tours requires a minimum deposit of 150 USD per person or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 60 days before departure.

  • Cancellation Policy

    We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of travel talk tours charges.

    Up to 60 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of deposit.

    At 59 days before tour starts: Forfeit 70% of booking price.

    At 29 days before tour starts: Forfeit 85% of booking price.

    At 14 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of booking price.

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