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Christmas Markets Along the Danube Eastbound

Code: Tauck-RNX2024 Operator: Tauck Tours

Magical Christmas Markets (8 Days, Holiday)

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4 Day Quebecs Christmas Market

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Christmas Markets Along the Danube Westbound

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Christmas Markets Along the Rhine Northbound

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WHY CHOOSE US?

Variety of christmas markets tours options, incredible destinations, years of travel experience, christmas markets group packages, christmas market travel options, christmas market tours 2024 & 2025 discount 50%.

Christmas Market tours and the world-famous Christmas Market River Cruises will once again become available in 2024 and 2025. Every year, eager travelers reserve space on Europe Christmas Market Tours to experience the yuletide season at its best. Now you can on any of our 2024 and 2025 Christmas Market Tours.

Europe Christmas Market Tours remain an incredibly affordable way to travel, mostly due to the off-peak nature of the season. Christmas Market Tours and Christmas Market River Cruises take you through popular Central European destinations like Austria, France, and Germany. Dating back to the 15th century, Christmas Markets in Europe have provided locals and visitors with festive scenes, including Christmas light shows, concerts, hot apple cider, mulled wine, and beautifully decorated trees that rival the giant spruce at Rockefeller Center! Central Europe hosts many traditional markets, with various ways to experience them, such as Christmas Market Tours and Christmas Market River Cruises.

The Difference Between Christmas Market Tours and Cruises

The main difference between a dedicated Christmas Market Tour and a Christmas Market River Cruise is that you only have to unpack once on a cruise. Historically, rivers were the highways of Europe, with major city centers situated right along the banks. For example, beautiful Prague has hugged the Vltava River for over ten centuries, with the river area now home to over 1 million residents. Multi-city bus tours that feature Prague also normally visit Vienna and Budapest. While the overland distance between these cities is around 200 miles, tours usually include stops in charming towns like Bratislava to break up the longer drives. River cruises allow you to wake up to new destinations each day while enjoying views of castles and sites along the passing river banks. Both tour and cruise options may also offer activities like biking along trails near the floating vessels.

What Makes Christmas Market Tours So Special?

• During the four Sundays preceding Christmas (Advent), Christkindlmarkts fill the streets of many cities and villages bringing Christmas to life.
• Getting to see and experience a Christmas Market in Europe by itself is most definitely a bucket list item.
• Having the chance to purchase unusual holiday ornaments not easily found in the states is also a treat.
• Experiencing warm Gluhwein while wandering through Central Europe Christmas Market during a cold winter's night is a highlight.
• Iceskating in Rockefeller Center is a wonderful experience; however, iceskating in the middle of a five hundred year old Christmas Market is entirely something else.
• Discovering hot chimney cakes, Spatzle, and Lebkuchen can transform your experience into something amazing!

But where should you begin when trying to figure out the best Christmas Markets in Europe?

The Best Christmas Markets In Europe

That's easy! The best Christmas Markets in Europe are all of the above, because they're all wonderful! It all depends on if you prefer taking a Christmas Market Tour or Christmas Market River Cruise.

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Experience Europe's Christmas Markets

Winter is a magical time of year to visit Europe. Christmas markets are a beloved part of holiday traditions in Europe. Picture market stalls filling medieval town squares in front of centuries-old churches and palaces. Local artisans sold their handcrafted goods—toys, ornaments, decorations, and sweets—and each city established unique traditions that captured the spirit of their people. Experience an authentic insider's view of centuries-old holiday markets and the seasonal festivities that surround Christmas. Our collection of European Christmas Market vacations takes you to the heart of the action, where alpine villages dazzle with twinkle lights, legendary cities celebrate in style, and Europe's time-honored traditions come to life. What are you waiting for? Reserve your European Christmas Markets vacation package today.

Europe's Christmas Market Tours & River Cruises

European Holiday Markets

Christmas Markets of Austria, Germany and Switzerland

Alpine Christmas Markets

Rhine Holiday Markets

German Christmas Markets

Christmas Markets of Poland, Prague and Germany

Christmas Markets of Austria and Bavaria

Christmas Markets of Germany

Winter Wonderland

Vienna at Christmas Time

The Austrian capital was one of the pioneers of the Christmas market tradition, holding its first event in 1298. Visitors today can enjoy any number of markets, including the Viennese Christmas Market—in front of city hall—and the market at Baroque Schönbrunn Palace, as well as shopping stalls in the historic Spittelberg District.

Christmas Markets in Zurich

With 150 stalls and operated completely indoors, a 50 foot Christmas tree adorned with Swarovski crystals welcomes visitors to Zurich as they arrive at the Main Train Station. With fruit cake, vendors from all over the world, and all kinds of other traditional Christmas cuisine, the air is filled with the scents and sounds of the holidays. Exhibitors compete for the honor of being named the “Most Beautiful Stall” at the market, ensuring that the entire venue is beautifully adorned. The Zurich market is the largest indoor market in Europe, making it the perfect escape for those blustery cold evenings.

Christmas in Munich

Stalls surround an impressive 85 foot Christmas tree in the German Capital. Here you’ll find children dressed as angels and learning to be the next generation of crafters inside the “Heavenly Workshop” in town hall. Musicians fill the air with festive music every Friday before Christmas as guests hop on the Christmas tram that parades them through the old city as they eat gingerbread cookies and sip hot spiced wine.

Prague for the Holidays

The abundant Gothic architecture provides a perfect backdrop to the Christmas scene you’ll find in Prague. The two most famous Christmas markets, held at Old Town Square and Wenceslas Square, are walking distance from each other. Wander among the traditional wooden huts to admire handmade wooden toys and jewelry, Czech marionettes, nativity scenes, and even a petting zoo. Prague also offers numerous culinary delights, including   klobása   (sausage), roasted ham,   Trdelník   (a rolled pastry),   Vosí Hnízda   (beehive cookies), and hot mulled wine

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Christmas Markets of Austria Germany and Switzerland

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8 Day Christmas Market Tour of Austria, Germany and Switzerland

8 days, 4 countries and 8 cities

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7 Breakfasts, 1 Lunch, 3 Dinners

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Fill your festive cheer with candles, carols, snowflakes and stollen as you wander past heaving market stalls and pay tribute to old-world traditions, local craftsmanship and mesmerizing city backdrops.

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8 days itinerary trip from Vienna to Zürich visiting 4 countries and 8 cities

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About this trip

Sightseeing highlights.

Explore Vienna and Salzburg with a Local Specialist

Discover Munich, Oberammergau, Vaduz, Innsbruck and Lucerne

Visit the Christmas Markets of Vienna, Salzburg, Munich, Innsbruck, Lucerne and Vaduz, the capital of Liechtenstein, and join a local family for an exclusive Be My Guest experience in their home

View Mozart's birthplace in Salzburg, the Marienplatz in Munich, the Golden Roof in Innsbruck and the Lion Monument and Chapel Bridge in Lucerne

See stunning alpine scenery

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All porterage and restaurant gratuities

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Breakfast daily and up to half of your evening meals

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Audio headsets for flexible sightseeing

Luxury air-conditioned coach with Wi-Fi in most countries or alternative transportation (such as rail journeys)

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On occasion, hotels of similar standard and location may be utilized.

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Christmas Market River Cruises

Embrace the magic of the holiday season aboard a Christmas market river cruise as you discover the Christmas markets in Germany and Austria and participate in age-old holiday traditions aboard your cruise along the Rhine and Danube rivers.

• ITINERARIES

Welcome to Europe's Christmas Markets

This 700-year old holiday tradition gets right to the heart of what Christmas is truly all about. The old world feel comes into focus this time of year as you stroll through the cobblestone streets and enjoy the sparkle of holiday lights, handcrafted surprises found around every corner, and mulled red wine on offer to keep you warm... adding to the yuletide experience.

The river of kings – the danube, old world europe – rhine river cruises, aboard our christmas markets river cruises, a christmas markets river cruise... with your riverboat done up for the holidays.

So many of our river cruise guests tell us that it's often the little extras they enjoy aboard their Tauck riverboat that make every day of their cruise that much more memorable... and that's before they even step ashore for their first excursion! Your Christmas Markets cruise will be no exception. Along with unlimited complimentary beverages (including beer, wine and premium spirits, specialty coffee, tea, water and soft drinks) aboard ship, and snack baskets available from 10:00 AM to midnight... you'll enjoy special onboard holiday touches like a tree-trimming party, caroling and other festive gatherings... a traditional European Christmas dinner with all the fixings... special evenings of holiday-themed entertainment, and much more!

Experiencing Europe's Christmas Markets

Treasure the magic of europe's christmas markets along the rhine or danube.

In every stop on your Christmas Markets cruise along the Rhine or Danube, you'll enjoy all the magic of your destination's holiday markets, each of which has taken on a distinctive character of its own over the centuries. You'll discover those local traditions… like the hot mulled wine known as glühwein, served in collectible mugs unique to each market… that have caught on to become an indispensable part of the holiday celebration. And on our Rhine Christmas Markets cruise, you'll experience some special holiday magic on an exclusive visit to the Thurn und Taxis family's Palace of St. Emmeram in Regensburg. Tour this lavish Baroque family home – converted from a monastery in the 18th century – and browse its private Christmas Market.

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Experience Europe's Christmas Markets

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Christmas Market tours

Drink hot mulled wine and marvel at sparkling Advent displays in historic squares across Europe. Get in the holiday spirit when you visit these iconic Christmas markets on our trips.

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What travelers say about their Christmas Market tours

Tips for planning a trip to europe’s christmas markets.

There are so many Christmas markets all around the world! We offer tours to Christmas markets in Amsterdam, Brussels, Vienna, Budapest, Prague, and Heidelberg, to name a few.

Here are some of the top markets on our European Christmas Market tours:

• Maastricht, the Netherlands.  Maastricht, in the  Netherlands , is a charming medieval city with cobblestone streets and fairy tale views. The small huts are filled with holiday gifts, mulled wine, local cheeses, and more.
• Trier, Germany.  Christmas markets originated in  Germany , making this one even more magical. From local artwork to handmade ornaments, you can find the most unique gifts here—and also some of the best gingerbread cookies around.
• Brussels, Belgium.  This market, like the city itself, is very large. In addition to the vendors selling food and other goods, there’s a large ferris wheel, ice skating rink, carousel, games, and beer tents.
• Innsbruck, Austria.  If you’ve ever dreamed of strolling through a  Christmas market in the Alps  with a cup of hot mulled wine, this one’s for you.

There are also Christmas Market tours outside of Europe, too. From New York to Toronto, check out  our 5 favorite Christmas markets not in Europe .

One of the best parts of our tours to Christmas markets is seeing all the souvenirs and gifts our travelers find. From scented ornaments and Advent calendars to cinnamon cookies and handmade nutcrackers, you’re bound to find a gift for everyone on your list. Check out  the best souvenirs you can find on our European Christmas Market tours .

The most important thing to know about European Christmas market vacations is that each one is unique. You could visit ten markets and have a different experience at each one! Read our blog on  what to do at Europe’s different Christmas markets .

Another tip is to be sure to visit at least one market at night. That’s when they’re the most magical! Show up hungry, too, because there are so many delicious foods to try at each market.

Lastly, if you’re wondering what to pack for a Christmas Market tour, bring lots of warm layers to keep toasty as you walk around the outdoor winter wonderland. And of course, our best tip is to leave room in your luggage for all the souvenirs you’ll bring home!

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Christmas market trips

Twinkly lights, cozy layers, maybe a lil snow—all the magic of the holidays, but in Florence. Or Prague. Or the Swiss Alps! Hit Venetian canals, a mountaintop castle in Bavaria, or Prague's Old Town on a group trip through some of Europe’s prettiest Christmas markets. Your winter fairytale is about to begin.

Christmas Markets: Budapest, Vienna & Prague

Christmas Markets: Germany, Italy & Switzerland

Save up to $200

Christmas Markets: Venice, Florence & Rome

Traveler pics from Christmas market trips

Cold but worth it.

“The Christmas markets were beautiful, our guided tours were informative, and our optional excursions were so much fun. Antonis, our Tour Director, was so organized and provided great suggestions for our free time. It was colder than I anticipated, and it snowed almost every day, but that made it more magical.”

–Stephanie, traveled on Christmas Markets: Budapest, Vienna & Prague, Dec. 2022

Hear ye, hear ye...

“It was a magical Christmas experience thanks to Adam! He was the best Tour Director you could ask for! He knew exactly where to go and let us make the most of the journey in all the locations we were in. We went from Italy to Austria to Germany and last but not least Switzerland and they were all incredibly beautiful locations.”

–Andrea, traveled on Christmas Markets: Germany, Italy & Switzerland, Dec. 2022

What do we do? What don’t we do?

We plan it all. And then some.

Our Christmas market group trips come with everything included. That’s accommodations, daily breakfasts, activities, and an expert Tour Director who always knows where to find the best Glühwein.

Round-trip flights & airport transfers (or book ’em yourself)

Multilingual Tour Director & local guides

Sightseeing activities and excursions

Entrance tickets to top attractions

Metro passes in major cities

Hand-picked accommodations

New travel BFFs

Welcome Dinner & Farewell Dinner

Private deluxe motorcoaches

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Journey of Doing

7 Christmas Market Trip Itinerary Ideas

Hopefully by now, I’ve convinced you to make your own Christmas market trip to Europe!  Despite the cold, there is nowhere I’d rather celebrate the holiday season than in Europe.  The smell of roasted chestnuts, the warmth of mulled wine, traditional wooden stalls selling beautiful Christmas decor, and glimmering Christmas lights all get me out of our hotel room on the coldest of nights.  That being said, even if the Christmas markets don’t get you going, these Christmas market trip itineraries can help you plan your vacations at any point in the year.

This post is heavily focused on central Europe.  Did you know that Hungary and the Czech Republic are not  considered to be part of Eastern Europe?  Test your knowledge through this  European map quiz .  It’s sure to inspire a whole host of alternate itineraries to try, particularly if you want to experience Eastern Europe destinations.  Estonia, Latvia, and the entire Balkan peninsula are calling to me.

If you’re looking for more inspiration, check out this list of some of the  best European Christmas markets !

Disclosure:  This post contains affiliate links for tours and products I love at no additional cost to you.  You can read my  full disclosure policy here.

Christmas Market Trip Travel Tips

To maximize your trip, I highly suggest that you book an open jaw ticket.  A open jaw ticket is one that arrives in one city and departs from another city.  Typically, I like to choose my two furthest points to minimize any backtracking.  I use Skyscanner to get an idea of what are the cheap travel deals. Using my home airport (DFW) I search to anywhere in Europe.  I also subscribe to Scott’s Cheap Flights and CheapDFW .  Once I know what is on sale, I use ITA Matrix to figure out which flights I want. I use Book with Matrix to find the best deal for my specific flight.

Use Rome2Rio to compare train, bus, and car transportation options.  Trains are usually the most efficient way to travel, but it depends on the size of your group.  In some cases, it might be better to drive.  We’ve done both.  If you’ve never been abroad and you’re not comfortable navigating public transportation, you might want to consider a river cruise, but I promise that you can do this!

Winter in Europe is cold.  I could do a whole packing post on what I’ve learned, but I haven’t done it yet.  My suggestions are to purchase cuddledud base layers that can be layered under leggings or jeans.  I find cashmere sweaters to the best for staying warm.  I have a pair of wool lined waterproof Ugg books that I’ve had for six years.  They keep my feet warm and dry.  Beyond that, you’ll want a scarf, a hat, an ear band, and gloves, too.  I am all about the layering!

One Week Christmas Market Trip Ideas

Classic central europe.

Salzburg, Austria (2 nights)

Vienna, Austria (2 nights)

Prague, Czech Republic (3 nights)

Affordable Central Europe

Munich, Germany (2 nights)

Bratislava, Slovakia (2 nights)

One Week Itinerary for France Christmas Markets

The Alsace wine route is great at any time of year, and it’s perfect for Christmas markets, too!  I recommend flying into Paris and immediately catching a train from Charles de Gaulle to Strasbourg.  We’ve done this Paris to Strasbourg itinerary twice and it’s super easy!  From there, you can rent a car or take the train.  If you opt for the train, I think Strasbourg and Colmar are the best connected.  On the return, you can spend a couple nights in Paris and enjoy their Christmas markets, too.  We’ve spent Christmas in Paris twice and it’s just magical at Christmas time.

Note:  Not all Alsatian Christmas markets are open every day.  You’ll want to check the Alsace Christmas market calendar before making plans, especially for some of the smaller towns in Alsace.  The suggested itinerary below is for markets that stay open consistently, but there are some off the beaten path towns in Alsace that I love!  I would choose Strasbourg or Colmar and then fit together some of the smaller towns based on your own Christmas market trip timing.  (We actually walked from Colmar to the Eguisheim Christmas markets one day.  That might be a little intense, but it’s doable!  

Strasbourg (2 nights)   

Colmar (2 nights)

Paris (3 nights)

10 Day Christmas Market Trip Itineraries

Both of these itineraries will allow you to see some of the most popular Christmas markets in Europe.  Many popular river cruises use some variation of these itineraries, but this will allow you to enjoy seeing the cities at night.  I think they appeal to difference audiences, though I love each of these itineraries equally.  

Don’t miss the incredible ice rink in Slovakia.  It’s one of my favorite memories of our first trip, though I love the ice rink in Salzburg as well.  (I came home from studying abroad with black and blue knees from ice skating!)

Central European Capitals

Budapest, Hungary (3 nights)

Bavarian Christmas Tour

Salzburg, Austria (3 nights)

Nuremberg, Germany (2 nights)

Rothenburg ob der Tauber, Germany (2 nights)

Munich, Germany (3 nights)

Two Week Christmas Market Trip Itinerary Ideas

This is the first Christmas market trip itinerary that we used, and it is intense.  It’s worth it though.  For me, there was nothing more magical that ending our trip with the big Christmas tree in the middle of Old Town Square.  It felt like my favorite scene in the Nutcracker and I loved every minute of it.

Classic Central Europe Itinerary

Vienna, Austria (2 nights)

Prague, Czech Republic (3 nights)

German Christmas and Central Europe Itinerary

This itinerary flies into and out of Munich.  If your trip will end on or shortly after Christmas Day, I recommend reversing it to end your trip in Salzburg .  On Christmas Eve, you can visit the chapel where Silent Night was first performed .  How’s that for a magical Christmas Eve??

Nuremburg, Germany (2 nights)

Which are the Most Beautiful Christmas Markets?

All of these cities are beautiful in their own right.  There are things I love about all of them.  Nuremberg is the original German Christmas market.  I think Salzburg has the most beautiful views.  Vienna has the most beautiful Christmas lights.  Marienplatz in Munich is one of the most beautiful squares I’ve ever seen.  Old Town Square is a scene out of The Nutcracker.  Budapest at night is pure magic.  The old town in Bratislava epitomizes Christmas cheer.  Rothenburg ob der Tauber is the Christmas village of  Kathe Wohlfahrt in real life.

You can’t go wrong with any combination of these cities.  Pick your favorite Christmas market trip and get excited!  They are all lovely in their own right.  If you’re looking for more Christmas markets in Germany, Lorelei has a lot of unique Bavarian Christmas markets, villages, and towns on her blog!

Salzburg:  The Alpine Christmas Markets

Where to Stay:   Hotel Goldgasse or Hotel Goldener Hirsch

Where to Eat:   Zum Zirkelwirt or Gasthof Wilder Mann

Don’t Miss:   Apple Strudel and Christmas Cookie Class

Who Loves Salzburg:   People who don’t mind being outside.  Between the Christmas market at Hohensalzburg Fortress, the one at Helbrunn Schloss, and the lakeside village markets, you have to enjoy spending time outside.  I wouldn’t recommend missing any of those markets, in addition the ones in the middle of the aldstadt, but if you don’t enjoy being outside, I would head to a city that offers more indoor activities.

Vienna:  The Beautiful Christmas Markets

Where to Stay:   Hotel am Stephansplatz or Ritz Carlton Vienna

Where to Eat:   Trattoria da Angelo – I love the rose ravioli!

Don’t Miss:   The Christmas lights!  I love the chandeliers near St. Stephan’s Cathedral.

Who Loves Vienna:  If you love music, culture, and cafes, Vienna has plenty of things to do on cold, wet days.  After touring Schonnbrunn Palace, you can take in a classical concert or see a strudel show.  I love sipping amaretto hot chocolate and reading at Cafe Central.  There are numerous museums, covering every topic you could imagine in the heart of Vienna.  If that’s not enough to satisfy your culture appetite, take a class to learn the Viennese waltz.  (We did; it was fun!)

Bratislava: Christmas Markets for Foodies

Where to Stay:   Sheraton Bratislava or Roset Boutique Hotel

Where to Eat:   Rio Grande Restaurant – I love the lava steak!

Don’t Miss:   A food tour of the Christmas markets !  You’ll try a lot of Slovak specialties.  Find a place where you can comfortable enjoy the ambiance around the ice rink in the old town.  A lot places have outdoor heaters and blankets to keep warm!  It’s worth it!

Who Loves Bratislava:   If Vienna is too big, too modern, or too expensive for you, Bratislava feels like a world away from the grand architecture of Vienna.  Less than an hour away, it offers a similar beauty to Prague without the crowds.  Despite the cold temperatures, we enjoyed the public art, seeing the fortified city walls, and learning more about the differences between Slovakia and the Czech Republic, which ultimately led to their split during our lifetime.  I find this piece of modern history fascinating.

Budapest:  The City Backdrop for Christmas Markets

Where to Stay:   Hilton Budapest

Where to Eat:   Pest Buda Bistro and Strudel House

Don’t Miss:   Any of these tours: Budapest night walking tour with river cruise , historical Budapest , Budapest Christmas market tour .  These are some of my favorite tour guides in Europe.  I can’t wait to go back and book them again!

Who Loves Budapest:   How can you not love Budapest?  That being said, if you love history, you’ll love Budapest.  If you love beautiful architecture and grand boulevards, you’ll love Budapest.  Budapest is the coldest of the Christmas markets we visited, so you’ll want to be prepared for that, but I think it is worth it.

Prague: The Fairytale Christmas Markets

Where to Stay:   Four Seasons Prague or Mandarin Oriental Prague

Where to Eat:   Pasta Fresca  or Meat and Greet

Don’t Miss:   St. Vitus Cathedral .  The Spanish Synagogue .  Old Town Square at night.  Charles Bridge in the early morning light.  Mala Strana.  The list for Prague goes on and on, doesn’t it??

Who Loves Prague:   If you like nightlife, Prague is your city.  (That’s not really my jam, but I recognize that it may be other people’s.)  If you love awe-inspiring stained glass and fairy tales come to life, don’t skip Prague.  One of my most fond memories of Prague is wandering the lamplit streets of Mala Strana on the way to the castle.  I could picture easily what it must have felt like in the 1500s.  I love getting out early and experiencing the Charles Bridge when its mostly empty with only the lamps are illuminating it.  The entire city seems mysterious and magical.

Rothenburg ob der Tauber: The Christmas Village

Where to Stay:   Hotel Klosterstuble

Where to Eat:   Profumo di Pasta da Guiseppe

Don’t Miss:   The Night Watchman’s Tour, eating a schneeballen , and visiting Kathe Wohlfahrt .

Who Loves Rothenburg ob der Tauber:   Anyone who loves Christmas.  It’s hard not to be a Grinch in this postcard perfect town.  If you love medieval town walls (my husband does), it’s neat to be able to walk around the city as though you are the night watchman.  The views of the German countryside are beautiful, too.

Munich:  The Traditional German Christmas Markets

Where to Stay:   Aloft Munich

Where to Eat:   TBD – we’re still in search of truly great meals in Munich!  That being said, Aldi has fresh and delicious pretzel rolls that Tom and I both still talk about.  (Why yes, my husband has identified the best products at Aldi in Europe, too.  It’s his favorite store.  He tells our family if Aldi doesn’t sell it, you don’t need it.)

Don’t Miss:   Listening to the traditional band and making friends at Hofbrauhaus .

Who Loves Munich:   Anyone who loves science or history.  Munich occupies a large space in World War II history, and I highly recommend learning more about its role in the world during that time.  The Deutsches Museum is the most comprehensive science museum I’ve ever visited, and I highly suggest visiting it.  Munich is much larger than it seems, so you’ll want to plan to get out of the old town and experience more of the neighborhoods with different feels.  The Aloft gave us a map of all the Christmas markets in the city, and many offer more traditional crafts than the markets in the city center.  (That’s yet another reason to stay with them – they encourage you to see more!)

Nuremberg:  The Original German Christmas Market

Where to Stay:   Melter Hotel and Apartments

Where to Eat:   at the Christmas market!  (I love the Nuremberg sausage.  And the pretzels.)

Don’t Miss:   Taking a food tour of Nuremberg !

Who Loves Nuremberg:   People who love history.  You need to visit the Documentation Center.  Not everything can be filled with Christmas cheer, but it’s important to understand that the atrocities that happened during World War II didn’t happen over night.  It is the result of a slow and methodical stripping away of the humanity of others.  We’re in danger of repeating that again, so I encourage you to learn more than we were taught it school.  It remains one of the most transformative experiences of my education.

Strasbourg Christmas Markets: The Capital of Christmas

Where to Stay:   Regent Petite France Hotel & Spa or Le Bouclier d’Or

Where to Eat:   at the Christmas market!  Don’t miss the Vin Chaud Blanc – my favorite is right in front of the Strasbourg Cathedral – literally smack dab in the middle.  It’s an additional Euro and it’s worth it.  

Don’t Miss:   Strasbourg Christmas Market Food Tour  

Who Loves Strasbourg:   People who are looking for a bigger city with their Christmas market.  For me, it felt like a smaller Vienna or similar to Bratislava.  I really loved being able to take a break from the crowds at our hotel spa, too.  (It overlooks the Petite France canals, too!)    

Colmar Christmas Markets: Christmas Markets with Canals

Where to Stay:   La Maison des Tetes

Where to Eat:   Via Roma , La Pignata , or the Covered Market right across from Petite Venise.  (You’ll want reservations anywhere in Colmar during Christmas time.  Colmar gets so busy!   

Don’t Miss:   Alsatian wine tasting at Domaine Martin Jund

Who Loves Colmar:   People who don’t mind crowds.  People who love holiday decor.  People who want to feel non-stop Christmas cheer.  The entire town is decked out for Christmas and it’s busy.  It can be a little overwhelming if you have sensory overload issues.  If you find yourself in that position, take a morning and head over to Eguisheim.  It’s a little quieter, a little calmer, and absolutely gorgeous.  

What Should I Buy at a Christmas Market?

For me, the best souvenirs at Christmas ornaments.  Tom and I have started a tradition where we purchase a Christmas ornament from the cities we visit.  Many of the Christmas markets have regulations that you can’t sell cheap crap that is mass produced.  Thus, you’ll find beautiful hand-painted or hand-blown Christmas ornaments.  I could look at them for hours, to be honest.  Whether your Christmas tree has a theme or a color, chances are, you’ll find something that is absolutely perfect for you.  Strasbourg had the best selection of the incense houses to create a Christmas village at home.  

Beyond that, look for things you can’t find at home.  In each city, I’ve always found something that was unique to the region.  My grandmother loves her potpourri Christmas tree we purchased in 2016 and it still smells great!  Similarly, my cousin loves the wooden dog statue we found for her on this last trip.  My mother-in-law loves her traditional German wooden pyramid decoration.  I love the bath salts my mom found me; she loves the schnapps, spices and oils she purchased for herself.  You can certainly purchase things like jewelry and journals, but I think the best part of Christmas markets is finding the specific regional things that you can’t find easily in the United States.

Sara loves to help people use their vacation time more effectively by planning beautiful, memorable, and delicious trips. She spends several weeks every year exploring Italy and central Europe. In addition to her full-time job, she is constantly searching for beautiful places and spaces. She loves the direct flights between Dallas and Italy, France, and Germany but is always up for wherever a great deal on an airline ticket will take her. (Sara also really loves European Christmas markets and tries to visit at least one new one every holiday season.)

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Stockholm is yours to explore ttoday oon a guided tour.

WOW, absolutely beautiful! I can’t believe how many cities/countries you’ve traveled to in Europe and have gotten to experience the true Christmas spirit each has to offer!

great ideas for christmas ITINERARIES 

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Europe’s Christmas Markets Shine Bright: A 13-Day Guided Tour of Austria, Slovakia & Germany

Add some one-of-a-kind gems to your gift list at the Christmas markets in Vienna, Munich and Ljubljana. This 13-day Christmas shopping extravaganza takes in the 500-year-old Salzburg Christmas Market, Mozart’s family home and a mouthwatering array of Viennese desserts. Visit Neuschwanstein Castle in Bavaria, reputed to have been the inspiration for a certain spin off at Disneyworld, and dine out in Vienna with lashings of Austrian specialties filling the table at a Restaurant Dinner. In Ljubljana, follow your Travel Director on an eye-opening tour of the Slovenian capital before tasting some truly scrumptious, Slovenian Christmas delicacies. From Zagreb take a funicular to the idyllic town of Gornji Grad and board a cave train in Postojna to explore a stunning underground world.

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European Christmas Market Itinerary by Train

If you are a regular reader then you already know that I LOVE Christmas markets. Ever since I discovered that they existed way back in 2011 when I travelled for the first time, I’ve been kind of obsessed. The holiday season may be cold in Europe, but it’s so darn magical and hands down one of my favourite times to visit. The lights, the decorations, the cute mugs full of delicious gluhwein , sausages, cookies, and other snacks and treats. European Christmas markets are basically the adult version of Santa’s village and I love everything about them. However, having been to many markets over many years, I realize that planning a Christmas market itinerary can be a bit overwhelming.

Europe has no shortage of Christmas markets so which ones do you choose? How do you get there and travel around? When should you go and what should you see and do? If these are questions you have then this is for you. I’m sharing the exact 2-week European Christmas market itinerary that I did by train through Germany and France. If two weeks is too long, you can easily cut it into one week in a single country. Ready to get festive? Here we go!

Why Explore European Christmas Markets by Train?

As you can see from the title, this European Christmas market itinerary is designed for train travel! Trains in Europe are amazing (so much better than in Canada). It’s a lot more relaxing than driving and still allows for more flexibility than an organized tour like a Christmas market cruise . Plus, they are more convenient, affordable, and environmentally friendly than flying.

For this itinerary, I used a mobile Eurail pass for the first time which was gifted to me by the company. I had 7 travel days to use within a 1-month period and complete freedom over my itinerary. It was super convenient because it allowed me to plan the big journeys in advance but could book my day trips day-of. This was handy for a number of reasons including affordability. Typically, the longer you wait to buy a train ticket, the more expensive it gets. With the Eurail pass, it’s a one-time fee that you pay upfront. So, unless you are on a train that needs a seat reservation (more on that later) then you can leave planning the smaller day trips to fit the weather and/or your mood when you are there.

European Christmas Market Itinerary  

As I said above, I did two weeks but you can also turn this into a one week European Christmas market itinerary very easily by choosing just one country to explore. For my two weeks, I chose a mix of big, well-known destinations and smaller, more local markets. If that sounds like your kind of European Christmas Market itinerary, then here’s how to plan.

Day 1 & 2: Nuremberg, Germany

Nuremberg Germany is my favourite Christmas market. The setting is beautiful in front of a huge gothic church. The stalls are lined with red and white striped paper to look like a candy cane and the first time I went I even had some snow which added that extra magic touch. Mostly though, I love the quality of the products here. One thing you will note about European Christmas markets is that they can get repetitive, but the Nuremberg Christmas market stands out to me as one that has different, interesting, and plenty of local products.

Where to stay: I loved Hotel Sorat Saxx . It’s right on the square of the Christkindlesmarkt, the main Christmas market, and only about a 15 minute walk (or a quick taxi ride) from the train station. 

I have a full guide for Nuremberg Christmas markets which I suggest you check out for more in-depth reading, however, since this is the start of your tour I recommend spending 3 nights in Nuremberg. That way you can rest up a bit from the jetlag if you are coming from overseas and not feel too rushed. Although for one of those days, I will suggest a day trip which I will get to next.  

Day 3: Day trip to Coburg OR Augsburg

After two days exploring Nuremberg, I suggest hopping on a train to nearby Coburg or Augsburg. I visited both during my recent trip and both have their perks and advantages depending on what you are looking for.

Coburg is a gorgeous little town only about 1 hour and 15 minutes by train to Nuremberg. The city centre is a 15-minute walk and full of beautiful old buildings in a range of pastel shades. The Christmas market here is tiny and mostly food based but, set up in the old square it is hands down one of the prettiest Christmas markets I’ve been to. I visited as a half-day trip but I do wish I went earlier in the day because the town is also home to an impressive fortress (one of the best-preserved medieval fortresses in all of Germany!). Coburg really gives fairy-tale vibes which makes it a fun pick.

The other option is Augsburg, which is about 1 hour and 30 minutes from Nuremberg. A little further away, this market is also much bigger although the town isn’t quite as pretty. However, Augsburg is known to have one of the oldest Christmas markets in Germany thanks to old gingerbread baker markets during the holiday season. Like Coburg, you can walk to the market from the train station in about 15 minutes.

What I loved about both options is that they felt so local. I didn’t hear anyone else speaking English during my time at either of these German Christmas markets.  

Day 4 & 5: Rothenburg Ob Der Tauber, Germany

If you are familiar with Germany at all you have no doubt heard of or seen photos of Rothenburg Ob Der Tauber. The medieval walled city is a popular stop on Germany’s Romantic Road route. It’s absolutely stunning at any time of year but it’s really something special during the holiday season. The Christmas market here has grown over the years but, truthfully, as far as markets go, it’s not the most exciting. However, what the Christmas market lacks the town makes up for. The decorations, the lights, and of course the two massive Käthe Wohlfahrt shops which are winter wonderland fairy tales in their own right are some of the highlights here.

Rothenburg Ob Der Tauber is quite small, but because it takes longer to get to I suggest spending two nights so you have one full day. Most people come here just as a day trip so it can get quite busy late morning/early afternoon. But, when they leave or early in the morning before they arrive is a really magical time to explore and have more of a local feel.

Stay at: Hotel Sonne , located in the Old Town. It also has a great restaurant. 

Rothenburg Ob Der Tauber is about 2 hours from Nuremberg and 3 hours from Munich including transfers. The Rothenburg Ob Der Tauber Train station is an easy 10-minute walk from the Old Town Walls, but the streets are cobblestone which can make it tricky if you have lots of luggage.

Day 6: Munich, Germany

Next up is Munich. Munich has a number of Christmas markets including the Pink Market (run by the Queer community), the Medieval Market (complete with knights), and the big market in front of Marienplatz. Now, Munich will hold a special place in my heart as being the place where I first discovered that Christmas markets existed but, in relation to other cities and destinations, Munich’s Christmas markets are just, well, average. I don’t love them and they get very busy and crowded. For this reason, I suggest only spending about 24 hours in Munich. I managed to visit 6 Christmas markets in that time which kept me plenty busy and entertained before moving on. For a central location, stay at Mercure Hotel Munchen Altstadt.

At this point, depending on your schedule, you can end your European Christmas market itinerary in Munich on day 7. That will have given you 1 week of German Christmas markets. But, if you have the time, then I suggest moving on to France to continue.

Day 7 & 8: Strasbourg, France

Take the time to explore a little more of Munich in the morning then take an afternoon train to Strasbourg, France. It’s a long train journey compared to the rest on this European Christmas market itinerary (around 4 hours, with at least 1 transfer) but worth it!

Located in the Alsace region of France, Strasbourg is one of the prettiest places for European Christmas markets. The houses, the businesses, the lights- Strasbourg does decorations beautifully!

There are 13 Christmas markets in Strasbourg. You can check out my Strasbourg Christmas market guide for all the details but many of them are smaller and some are themed. What I like about the Strasbourg Christmas markets is that it really feels like a mix. The larger markets are big and busy while smaller ones had that smaller, more local feel.

Everything is located within the old city making it an easy walk from the train station. I recommend stating at  BOMA Easy Living , which I loved. Plus, it was only an 8-minute walk from the train station.

Day 9: Day trip to Colmar, France

Another must-see in the Alsace region is Colmar, known for being the inspiration for Belle’s village in Beauty and the Beast. Magical at the best of times, Colmar rivals Strasbourg when it comes to the most decorated Christmas markets in Europe. It’s only 30 minutes by train and a 15-minute walk to the Old Town area from the train station.

It is a very popular day trip option so expect it to be busy, but it’s worth it. I usually go a little earlier in the day to enjoy the market during daylight hours when it’s warmer since I head back to Strasbourg for the night. However, it looks pretty gorgeous in the dark with all the lights and I expect it’s a lot quieter in the evening when the day trippers leave.  

For more, check out my guide to Christmas Markets in Colmar .

Day 10, 11, 12: Reims, France

Time to take a break from gluhwein and vin chaud and head to Reims, the capital of champagne. Some of the best-known champagne cellars in the world are located here and offer tours and tastings. I spent two days exploring major international champagne brands and a couple of smaller, local ones. In the evenings, after learning about (and drinking) bubbles, I’d wander through the Reims Christmas Market and grab some delicious raclette from a vendor. Since Reims is known as the champagne area, it wasn’t busy at all with Christmas tourists which means that it had that local authentic feel. Although I do have to say my Canadian heart burst with happiness when I saw a couple of Quebec tents selling Canadian maple syrup, beer, and other Canadian liquors. While not as decorated or atmospheric, I found this to be a really friendly European Christmas market as a tourist.

I loved  MM Suites Cathedral which was a really cute apartment (up 2 flights of stairs, no elevator). If you’d prefer a hotel try Grand Hotel de Templiers .

Day 13-14: Paris

Last but not least is beautiful Paris, the ending point for this European Christmas market itinerary and only 45 minutes by train from Reims.

Paris has a number of markets including some small weekend-only pop-up ones. There are also plenty of decorations and light displays around the city. The Christmas windows of department stores like Printemps and of course the famous annual tree at Galleries Lafayette. Check out my full guide on Christmas in Paris  for the holiday highlights and if you are looking for central places to stay try Hotel Crayon Rouge or Snob Hotel . If those are a bit above your budget, take a look at my list of affordable hotels in Paris .  

Using Your Eurail pass

The 7 travel days within 1-month Global travel pass was perfect for the above itinerary. With the mobile pass, I was able to map it out in advance on the app under the ‘My Trip’ section. When I was happy with the results, I confirmed my travel days by tapping the icon to add the journey to my pass. Then, under my pass, I had the QR code with the ticket to show the conductor when they came to check. It’s simple and convenient!

A couple of things to be aware of. Not all trains have WIFI, so you’ll want to make sure that you have a sim card with data so you can pull up your pass on the train. Additionally, some trains do have seat reservations which cost extra and need to be booked in advance and, in my experience, printed as a paper ticket. This added an extra $90 CAD total to my itinerary since I booked a few high-speed trains through France.

Last but not least, if travelling with a friend you’ll want to order your seats together through the website. I did this trip with my mom and we both booked seats individually but there was no option to choose seats so unfortunately, we didn’t get to sit together. Once booked, your seats cannot be changed. If you need help figuring that out, get in touch with the Eurail team who can walk you through the steps.

Check out Eurail and their pass options here.

Final Tips for Your European Christmas Market Itinerary

If you love the holiday season as much as I do then this European Christmas market itinerary is sure to get you into a festive mood! Just keep in mind that it is one of the most popular travel times and therefore things do book up quickly. I suggest planning out your route and booking hotels and any big train journeys in advance to ensure you get the places and times that you want.

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Oooh, we LOVE this post! And really, it’s a great itinerary any time of year, but especially for the Christmas Markets. You’ve got us planning another trip!! Last time, we spent a whole week just exploring the markets in Paris before heading to Alsace. Time to hop aboard and head for Germany! 😍

Yes the markets in Germany are incredible too!

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Are Christmas Markets Worth It, Or Are They A Gigantic Tourist Trap?

Thinking of a magical, festive European getaway and wondering are Christmas markets worth it? Or are they just gigantic tourist traps that are a waste of money? We’re here to help!

Visiting the German-style Christmas markets all over Europe had been on my and Caleb’s bucket list for over a decade, so when we finally did a 2 month Christmas trip across 10+ countries, we were so excited. However, it wasn’t entirely what we had thought it was going to be.

The truth is that the answer to whether the Christmas markets are worth visiting or not really depends on what you’re looking for and where you go. If you’re a couple looking for a romantic, festive vacation, then it’s only worth it if you go to small towns. However, if you’re looking for a lively Christmas experience and don’t mind A LOT of other humans, then all the Christmas markets will be worth it!

Let’s jump into our guide so you know *exactly* what you can expect, starting with a video of 7 markets we made so you can get the vibe!

Reasons To Visit The Chrismas Markets in Europe

1. the atmosphere can be so magical.

Chances are that you’ve seen photos on Instagram of Christmas markets, and you know that they are full of twinkling lights, half-timbered little chalets, Godzilla-sized Christmas trees, and red and green decorated everythingggg.

Christmas markets in Europe really understand the assignment when it comes to all things festive. We found some of the smaller, off-the-beaten-path markets we visited to be INCREDIBLY magical. There is truly nothing like them in terms of “Christmas cheer,” especially in the USA.

Some were NOT this case, though…more on that shortly. *DUH DUH DUH.*

2. Two Words: Mulled Wine

This boozy, spiced, and sweet alcohol is literally everywhere at the markets, and Europe basically smells like mulled wine during November and December. ←Exaggeration, but you get it. We tasted cherry mulled wine, blueberry mulled wine, traditional, white, honey, and so many different flavors. 

It’s also socially acceptable to drink mulled wine at 10 am (❤️❤️❤️) during the Christmas season AND drink it out of a shoe . Caleb and I came home with 20 different shoe mugs after 2 months, so make sure you leave space in your bag. They’re SO stinking cute, and you’ll want to collect them.

3. Some Of The Food Is Epic

I MEAN, LOOK AT THAT PHOTO OF ME WITH A POTATO PANCAKE THE SIZE OF MY HEAD. Sorry for the caps, but they are needed. We really can’t write an article answering the question “are German Christmas markets worth it?” without talking about the EATS.

The European Chrismas Markets are not the time to be on a diet. We pretty much existed on cookies, sausage, waffles with Biscoff, crepes, and cheese and were not mad about it. If you like “fair-style” food here in the USA, your taste buds will fall off your head at the markets.

The food quality leaves something to be desired, but we’ll share our thoughts on that in a second.

4. Unique Souvenirs/Crafts/Gifts

Visiting the markets was really special to me because it’s been my Grandma’s dream to visit them forever (and she never could), so I was able to find some really beautiful, unique, and hand-crafted Christmas tree ornaments to bring her back instead.

And that is the beauty for you, too. In the smaller towns, you will see many chalets where locals sell their handicrafts, and you can get some unique gifts or things to bring home. I particularly loved some of the hand-carved wood ornaments and some wreaths made of a blend of pine needles and pine cones.

5. They Can Be Romantic and Beautiful

I mean, what could be more romantic than strolling hand-in-gloved-hand through twinkly lights, swiping mulled wine, sharing cookies for dinner without shame, and listening to hark the herald angels sing? I know it sounds super cheese, but that’s the plot of every Christmas romantic movie for a reason…. IT’S ROMANTIC.

Some of the markets are also really, really beautiful. You’ve got dark wooden chalets wrapped with dark green wreaths, sparkly ornaments, and fairy lights everywhere, surrounded by Europe’s gorgeous old towns.

When the markets are in front of some beautiful European churches, like we saw at St Stephen’s Basilica in Budapest, or buildings like the market in Wroclaw in front of the Museum of Bourgeois Art, it’s so beautiful you might weep.

Maybe that’s just us, though.

6. You Get A Taste Of Other Cultures

Literally, because many of the different Christmas markets in various countries have their own unique foods to try. But we felt like we got to experience the whole community and vibe of a city in a way that we never had by traveling during the “normal” times.

We loved seeing all the various Christmas traditions for each country at each market, like Krampusnacht in Austria and the Christkind in place of Santa Claus in Germany. 

7. You Can Get Some Great Photos

Honestly, if you guys want to win the completely fictional “cutest couples Christmas card” awards or make basically everyone on your Instagram feed jealous, you’re going to do that in spades at the Christmas markets.

Case in point: some of the photos in this post. With twinkling lights, adorable show mugs, candy canes, reindeer, wooden chalets, and all the other “Christmas-ness” around, you’ve got a lot of options for great photos.

TAYLOR’S TIP:

DO NOT expect to get cute photos in the evenings. Besides the whole “it’s dark” situation, the markets get SO BUSY that you will be taking “romantic” photos with a bunch of randos in them. Not ideal. We found going right when the market opened in the morning to be the best photo time.

Reasons Not To Visit The Chrismas Markets in Europe

1. the crowds can be overwhelming.

While some of the smaller markets are magical, romantic, and beautiful, we have to keep it real with you: the big, more “famous” markets, honestly….kinda sucked.

It was not what either of us were expecting because it’s wall-to-wall people. You can’t walk around, you’ll probably get separated from each other, and maybe even lose cell service because everyone is pinging the cell towers like we did. You may just want to get out of these as fast as you can.

I have to say, I was really let down by the big, famous markets, and I never want to go back to them. Caleb and I were cranky and needed to whip out our couple’s survival tips a few times . If you want the best atmosphere, look for small towns with small local markets, go during the day, and try to avoid weekends.

2. It’s Cold

I know you’re like, ‘Thank you, Captain Obvious, it’s winter,” and you’re right. But you don’t realize just *how cold it gets when you’re standing outside for hours at the Christmas markets. Sometimes it’s also rainy too!

But that also gives you more reason to drink mulled wine, so perhaps this is a pro? I’ll let you decide.

3. Some Of Them Are Huge Tourist Traps

As we had never done any Christmas markets in Europe before, we started with ALL the big, famous markets, and we thought 99% of them felt like Christmas-themed theme parks that were tacky, busy, and total tourist traps. We’re talking about the ones in places like Nuremberg, Paris, Dresden, Budapest, Vienna etc.

If you want a feeling of authenticity, go to small towns, especially in Germany. We loved small places like Tubingen, Heidelberg, and Esslingen. 

Additionally, while some stalls had gorgeous, hand-crafted items, many of them had the opposite. We visited over 10 countries for the Christmas markets, and I saw SO many of the exact same things for sale. A lot of the wares are mass-produced, low quality, and expensive.

4. They’re EXPENSIVE

Okay, this shocked us. When we left for our 2 month Christmas market extravaganza we were so pumped because we thought it would be our cheapest European vacation ever! I mean, mulled wine must be like $2, and a sausage like $3, right?

WRONG. Most places had mulled wine for $7+ (for less than a one-cup serving), and a lot of the food was $10+. We were especially surprised by the price at the markets in Budapest, which our research told us was the “cheapest.” Lies, we say.

There are outliers here, like some of the markets in Poland where we had mulled wine for $3, but everything is way more expensive than we thought because the markets are SO touristy now.

5. Food Quality Is Not Great

On that note, the food is expensive, honestly? Not great quality. Yes, it’s absolutely fun to eat some of the over-indulgent food there, and we made sure to try literally EVERY POSSIBLE thing so we could report back to you about what is worth the calories.

This means we also got Christmas market food-ed out quickly. We existed almost entirely on market food for 2 months, and we don’t recommend it. If you’re going to Europe for the food like we do, make sure you plan to go to some actual restaurants or cook at your accommodation so you eat some real, quality food, too.

6. Many Are Commercialized

While you find the true, authentic Christmas spirit in some markets, a lot of them just feel like an excuse to make money off the holiday season. The emphasis is on making a sale instead of celebrating Jesus’ birth.

So, pick your markets wisely. Just because it’s one of the biggest or most famous does not mean it’s the best. We learned the hard way.

Once You Determine If The Christmas Markets Are Worth It, Here’s What’s Next:

Well, now you know our honest answer to the question, “Are Christmas Markets worth it?” It really depends on where you go and what you’re looking for. If you want a magical Christmas experience and go to small, lesser-known towns, then YES, the markets are absolutely worth it. We’re going to go back to these styles of markets this year because we loved them so much!

However, if you go to huge markets looking for authentic holiday vibes, the chances are high that you will be disappointed like we were.

So, what do you think: would they be worth it for you?

• The Best Things To See...

The Best Things to Do in Nizhny Novgorod

Nizhny Novgorod, founded in 1221, is one of the oldest cities in Russia, so is home to an array of historic attractions. If you’re headed to the 2018 FIFA World Cup in Russia and happen to find yourself in Nizhny Novgorod, it would be an absolute shame to miss out on seeing the city. Here are the best things to see and do.

Go back in time on bolshaya pokrovskaya.

If you’re a fan of the Golden Age of Russian literature, Bolshaya Pokrovskaya is the place for you to go. As one of the city’s central streets, long lines of well-preserved 19th-century buildings stretch along both sides. It’s not only the architecture that will transport you back in time: sculptures of past inhabitants of the town, each with a story to tell, will make you feel as if you were a character in a Dostoevsky novel.

Bolshaya Pokorovskaya, Nizhny Novgorod, Russia

The Chkalov Staircase, consisting of almost 600 stairs, leads from the Kremlin to the riverbank. On a sunny day, after a long walk around the Kremlin, head down to the Volga river, stroll along it and have lunch sitting on one of the benches placed near the boardwalk.

Chkalov Stairs, Kreml, Nizhny Novgorod, Russia

See the river from above

A cable car runs above the river from Nizhny Novgorod to Bor, a town on the other side of the Volga river. It is often used by locals as a means of public transport and the views from it are breathtaking. Spend an afternoon going to Bor and back; a trip that is most certainly worth your time.

Nizny Novgorod Cable Car, Kazanskaya Naberezhnaya 8, Nizhny Novgorod, Russia

Spend an afternoon in space

In a district just outside the city centre you’ll find a very special monument dedicated to Gromozeka, a well-loved character from a sci-fi Soviet cartoon. Gromozeka, whose metal sculpture can now be found on the playground in Nizhny Novgorod, was a friendly alien archaeologist from a far-away planet called Chumaroz. A few benches around the monument are hidden in what look like USSR space helmets. A must-see for all the space geeks out there.

Gromozeka monument, Tropina, Nizhny Novgorod, Russia

1. Visit the Nizhny Novgorod Kremlin

2. Get a sneak-peek into Nizhny Novgorod's pre-revolutionary literary world

Building, Museum

3. Become a 19th-century nobleman or woman for the day

Looking for things to do in Moscow? Check out our guide here .

Since you are here, we would like to share our vision for the future of travel - and the direction Culture Trip is moving in.

Culture Trip launched in 2011 with a simple yet passionate mission: to inspire people to go beyond their boundaries and experience what makes a place, its people and its culture special and meaningful — and this is still in our DNA today. We are proud that, for more than a decade, millions like you have trusted our award-winning recommendations by people who deeply understand what makes certain places and communities so special.

Increasingly we believe the world needs more meaningful, real-life connections between curious travellers keen to explore the world in a more responsible way. That is why we have intensively curated a collection of premium small-group trips as an invitation to meet and connect with new, like-minded people for once-in-a-lifetime experiences in three categories: Culture Trips, Rail Trips and Private Trips. Our Trips are suitable for both solo travelers, couples and friends who want to explore the world together.

Culture Trips are deeply immersive 5 to 16 days itineraries, that combine authentic local experiences, exciting activities and 4-5* accommodation to look forward to at the end of each day. Our Rail Trips are our most planet-friendly itineraries that invite you to take the scenic route, relax whilst getting under the skin of a destination. Our Private Trips are fully tailored itineraries, curated by our Travel Experts specifically for you, your friends or your family.

We know that many of you worry about the environmental impact of travel and are looking for ways of expanding horizons in ways that do minimal harm - and may even bring benefits. We are committed to go as far as possible in curating our trips with care for the planet. That is why all of our trips are flightless in destination, fully carbon offset - and we have ambitious plans to be net zero in the very near future.

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3 amazing Germany road trip ideas

Fancy a vacation on the road in the home country of the famous Autobahn? How about a Germany road trip? In this article, I share three exciting routes for a great road trip during a German summer or to see the best Christmas markets in December.

Even if you only have a week, there is much to do and see along the way. I am also giving you tried and tested tips to set your road trip budget and for choosing the best rental car.

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The best time for a Germany road trip

Average budget for a germany road trip, how to get to germany from the us, the best rental cars for a road trip in germany, germany road trip itinerary - from the north sea to the baltic sea, round trip germany from munich - mountains, lakes & castles, 7 days to the most beautiful christmas markets in germany, general tips for your road trip in germany.

The most popular time to travel in Germany is from May to July when temperatures soar and the sun is out. However, December is also a favorite as the whole country is in a festive mood and the Christmas markets open their doors.

If you are planning a road trip through Germany, you shouldn't wait too long to book a hotel during these months. The best ones book up quickly, especially during vacation times and on weekends. You also shouldn’t wait too long to book your flight and rental car.

Speaking of vacation: Before you set off, you should take a look at when school vacation starts. German kids get six weeks in the summer and the period varies slightly in the different states. This way you can start your trip a few days earlier or later and avoid traffic jams on the highways. Keep this in mind when driving on the weekends too as roads get very crowded on Friday and Sunday afternoons.

The recommendations provided here are based on travelers’ searches on KAYAK, and on the average temperatures provided by weatherbase.com.

Before you set off, you might want to know how much a road trip in Germany will cost. We have compared hundreds of providers on your behalf and compiled average prices:

• Average price for a double room in Berlin: $152 per night
• Average price of a bed in a hostel in Berlin: $73 per night
• Average price of a rental car in Berlin: $75 per day
• Price for a gallon of gas in Berlin: $7.35*

*As of March 2024

For a seven-day road trip in Germany, during which you will cover approx. 560 miles, you should expect a total budget of approximately $900 per person based on two travelers sharing. This includes your taxes but not your flights. Also, there are no road tolls in Germany for regular cars so you don’t have to worry about these extras.

You can save on accommodation if you look for a hotel that is not directly in the city center (this is also usually better for parking).

Depending on which road trip itinerary you want to follow you may want to pick a flight that takes you to the starting point of the route. Most airports have rental car counters so you can start your Germany road trip as soon as you land.

There are plenty of flights from the US to Germany. Berlin is the capital and you can find roundtrip flights from NYC for an average of $871 and from LAX for $1066. However, you might have better chances for a direct flight to Frankfurt or Munich depending on your departure airport at home.

If you are doing the northern route that starts in Hamburg you will need to book a connecting flight with a layover. There are currently no direct flights from the US to Hamburg.

The type of rental car you choose for a road trip in Germany depends primarily on how much space you need. An economical car is particularly useful for longer trips. You should calculate beforehand whether unlimited mileage will pay off for your route.

Comprehensive insurance is always important and you may want to register a second driver so that you can take turns behind the wheel. If you are planning to visit a few cities, you may not want to take the biggest car available. Roads can be small and driving with a big SUV will make it even harder to find parking.

In Germany, your car needs winter tires if the conditions require it. If you are planning to drive from October to March when the weather can bring snow or ice, you should check with your car rental company if your vehicle is equipped with the correct tires.

Pack your bathing suit, because this route takes you to the most beautiful beaches and places by the North Sea and Baltic Sea.

Day 1: Hamburg

Your road trip along the coast begins with a visit to the Hanseatic City of Hamburg. If the weather is nice, you can put your feet in the sand on the beach by the river Elbe and count the containers in the harbor. Visit the Elbphilharmonie for a concert or a tour of its famous plaza.

Where to stay in Hamburg: 25hours Hotel Hafencity , a cool city hotel with Nordic flair

Day 2: Sankt Peter-Ording

Distance from Hamburg: 87 mi - just under 2 hours

Enjoy the ocean breeze during a long walk on the beach in Sankt Peter-Ording. You can also jump on a board as windsurfing is the thing to do here. Alternatively, take a stroll along the pier and enjoy a bite to eat in one of the restaurants that are set up in iconic stilt houses.

Where to stay in Sankt Peter-Ording: Seaside 43 , a beautiful wellness hotel by the sea

Day 3: Sylt

Distance from Sankt Peter-Ording: 80 mi - 2.5 hours including the journey by car train

Sylt is the destination for a seaside vacation and the Wadden Sea National Park awaits. It is best explored on a guided tour. Afterwards, you can admire the dunes and the Red Cliff, and enjoy a fish sandwich at the northernmost fish shack in Germany.

Where to stay on Sylt: Hotel Stadt Hamburg , a chic hotel in the middle of Westerland

Day 4: Fehmarn

Distance from Sylt: 155 mi - just under 4 hours including the journey by car train

Fehmarn is a great island for a family vacation. Beach volleyball, kiting, or splashing around in the waves - there is a beach for every taste on this Baltic island. Children and teenagers can get to know the area with geocaching and if it rains, you can play or relax in the indoor wave pool.

Where to stay on Fehmarn: Strandhotel Bene , beautiful accommodation with a sea view

Day 5: Lübeck

Distance from Fehmarn: 55 mi - just over 1 hour

Start by saying hello to the Holsten Gate and Lübeck's old city, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Nibble on some famous Lübeck marzipan while you stroll around. Literature fans can visit the Buddenbrookhaus , where you can learn all about the life of Germany’s best-known author Thomas Mann.

Where to stay in Lübeck: Fisher's Loft , a cool city hotel in the center

Day 6: Fischland Darß Zingst

Distance from Lübeck: 120 mi - 2.5 hours

Which is the most beautiful beach in Germany? For many, it is without question the western beach in Darß, which resembles a Caribbean beach. There is also the Vorpommersche Boddenlandschaft National Park, which delights nature lovers thanks to its lagoons, forests, and steep cliffs.

Where to stay in Darß: Domizil am Ostseewald , a spacious vacation rental near the beach

Day 7: Rügen

Distance from Zingst: 45 mi - just over 1 hour

In addition to beautiful beaches and one of the most famous piers in the Baltic Sea, Rügen is particularly famous for the Jasmund National Park. Hike to the Königsstuhl and admire the chalk cliffs. A special highlight is the treetop walk with a slide and a great view over the beech forest, a natural heritage site.

Where to stay on Rügen: Der Wilde Schwan , a pretty hotel with sauna

From Rügen, you will either drive back to Hamburg to catch your flight home or to Berlin if you want to add a trip to the German capital. Both cities are approximately 3 hours away by car.

Fancy feeling like a princess or even a queen? This road trip through Germany will take you to the most beautiful castles in Bavaria.

Day 1: München

Your fairytale road trip begins in Munich, home to Nymphenburg Palace. Admire the former summer residence of the Bavarian electors and stroll through the fantastic park of the palace. They offer special themed tours for families.

Don’t forget to try a Bavarian veal sausage in a traditional beer garden - but hurry, because they are only served until midday!

Where to stay in Munich: Augustin Hotel , a modern family hotel in Schwanthalerhöhe

Day 2: Füssen

Distance from Munich: 80 mi - just under 2 hours

Germany's most famous castle is located very close to Füssen: welcome to Neuschwanstein! King Ludwig II's home is a real fairytale castle and is charming any time of the year. To visit, you must take part in a guided tour with tickets available online.

Where to stay in Schwangau: Hotel Christine , only 15 minutes away from Neuschwanstein

Day 3: Ettal

Distance from Füssen: 32 mi - just under 1 hour

The next castle is very close: Linderhof Castle, which was Ludwig II’s pleasure palace that he visited during hunting trips. You also have to book a guided tour and they offer themed tours for children and adults. The castle park is particularly beautiful with the famous Venus Grotto and other interesting building projects the king started.

Where to stay in Ettal: Mammhofer Suite , a charming guesthouse in the heart of Oberammergau

Day 4: Garmisch-Partenkirchen

Distance from Ettal: 9 mi - 20 minutes

Even without a castle, Garmisch-Partenkirchen is a great stopover on your road trip through Bavaria. From here, you can take the cog railroad up to the Zugspitze. At the top, you can enjoy a view over four countries and with a bit of luck and clear skies count a total of 400 mountain peaks.

Where to stay in Garmisch-Partenkirchen: Hotel Zugspitze , a wellness hotel in the middle of the Alps

Day 5: Prien am Chiemsee

Distance from Garmisch-Partenkirchen: 80 mi - just under 2 hours

Ludwig II's third palace was built on the island of Herrenchiemsee and modeled after Versailles. Even though it was never completed, its hall of mirrors is actually longer than the original’s. You can reach the island by boat from Prien and get tickets for a guided tour at the pier.

Where to stay in Prien: Hotel Zur Sonne , not far from the lake

From Prien, it will take a good hour to get to Munich Airport for your return flight. Make sure to leave enough time to drop your rental car off.

December means Christmas market season in Germany. This one-week road trip takes you from Frankfurt to Berlin to see some of the most beautiful Christmas markets in Germany.

Day 1: Frankfurt am Main

The first Christmas lights are being lit in Frankfurt by the end of November. There are Christmas markets in many parts of the city, but none are as beautiful as the market in the historic old town. My tip: In addition to traditional mulled wine, many local winemakers have stalls in the area. Perfect if you don't like warm wine but prefer Riesling instead.

Where to stay in Frankfurt: Motel One Frankfurt-Römer , a modern hotel near the old town

Day 2: Rothenburg ob der Tauber

Distance from Frankfurt: 112 mi - 2 hours

Admittedly, the Christmas market in Rothenburg ob der Tauber is not the biggest, but the town likes to call itself a Christmas fairytale. It is most beautiful when it snows, but the Christmas lights provide a charming backdrop in any weather. Yummy mulled white wine and the so-called Rothenburg snowballs will warm you up in no time.

Where to stay in Rothenburg ob der Tauber: Burghotel , a medieval hotel on the edge of the old town

Day 3: Nürnberg

Distance from Rothenburg ob der Tauber: 50 mi - just over 1 hour

The Nürnberg Christmas Market is one of the oldest and most beautiful Christmas markets in Europe. Nibble on traditional gingerbread and sausages while you shop for handicrafts. A highlight are the adventure trails, which allow you to discover completely new parts of the market.

Where to stay in Nürnberg: Hotel Drei Raben , a central accommodation not far from the market

Day 4: Erfurt

Distance from Nürnberg: 143 mi - 2.5 hours

One of the most beautiful medieval Christmas markets in Germany opens its doors every year in front of the cathedral in Erfurt. In addition to local delicacies and crafts, it is particularly famous for its life-size nativity scene. If it gets too busy you can relax in the enchanted Christmas forest at the edge of the market.

Where to stay in Erfurt: Hotel Domizil , a lovely accommodation close to the cathedral

Day 5: Leipzig

Distance from Erfurt: 93 mi - just under 2 hours

Leipzig is one of my absolute favorite cities in Germany and it shines especially bright in the weeks before Christmas. The Christmas market in front of the old town hall dates back to the 15th century. It gets particularly festive when the famous Thomanerchor opens the market with Christmas carols.

Where to stay in Leipzig: Radisson Blu Hotel , with a great view of the Augustusplatz

Day 6: Dresden

Distance from Leipzig: 137 mi - 2.5 hours

Dresden's Striezelmarkt has the official title of being the oldest recorded Christmas market. During a stroll, you can buy delicious Dresden Christmas Stollen, a famous fruit bread with its very own festival. You can also admire beautiful pyramids and candle arches all over the market. And yes, you can buy some to take home too!

Where to stay overnight in Dresden: Townhouse Dresden , a luxury hotel right next to the Frauenkirche

Day 7: Berlin

Distance from Dresden: 125 mi - just over 2 hours

Berlin is one of the coolest destinations in winter and of course, there is not just one Christmas market in our capital. From traditional to just a little bit different, Berlin's Christmas markets have it all. The historic Christmas market at RAW and the Winterworld at Potsdamer Platz, where you can go sledding too, are particularly beautiful.

Where to stay in Berlin: Wild Aparthotels, cool studios right by Checkpoint Charlie

After your Christmas Market trip, it is best if you catch a connecting flight from Berlin to Frankfurt for your international departure. Alternatively, you might be able to book a multi-city flight with arrival in Frankfurt and departure from Berlin.

If you fancy a truly epic road trip through Germany, you can also combine the three suggested routes and drive across the whole country.

US citizens can use their US driver’s license to drive in Germany for a stay of up to six months. If you plan on staying longer you will need to get a German license as well.

You need to be at least 18 years old to legally drive a car in Germany. Most car rental companies have a minimum and a maximum age requirement for the driver. Sometimes you also have to prove that you have had your license for a certain number of years.

Remember that Germans use the metric system. Distances are shown in kilometers (km) and speed in kilometers per hour (kph). Also, petrol prices are shown per liter, not per gallon.

While the German Autobahn is world-renowned for not having a speed limit, don’t get too excited - there are only very few stretches where you can drive to your heart’s content. And of course, you need to be mindful of the traffic around you as well as your driving skills.

Here are some more tips for driving in Germany.

Flight and hotel rates are averages based on data collected by KAYAK. These prices offer an estimate for organizing your trip, but they may vary according to offers, period, destination or your preferences. The price per liter of gasoline, as of April 1st, 2024, is subject to fluctuations, and comes from numbeo.com.

The hotel recommendations included in this article are based on customer ratings and the author's personal choices, so please feel free to use our hotel finder to find the accommodation best suited to your needs.

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• Nizhny Novgorod

Nizhny Novgorod, Russia

Tours, Attractions and Things To Do in Nizhny Novgorod

Nizhny Novgorod is the fifth largest city in Russia with a population exceeding 1.2 million. The city is located at the confluence of two rivers - the Volga and Oka. It is the center of Nizhny Novgorod region and Volga Federal District, as well as one of the country’s major administrative, economic and cultural centers.

Furthermore, Nizhny Novgorod is the Russia’s largest industrial center with the enterprises of mechanical engineering, metalworking information technology playing a leading role.

Nizhny Novgorod was founded in 1221 by Prince Yuri Vsevolodovich to protect Russian borders. Under Ivan III, Nizhny Novgorod was a sentry city. It had a regular army. This was the place for Moscow to march against Kazan.

Nizhny Novgorod made a great contribution to the construction of the Russian state. In 1612, Kuz’ma Minin and Prince Dmistry Pozharsky’s militia from Nizhny Novgorod played a decisive role in the liberation of Moscow from Polish intervention.

During the Soviet period from 1932 to 1990, the city was named after Maxim Gorky, the Great Russian writer who was born there. From 1959 to 1991 it was a “forbidden” city for foreigners because of defense plants, located there. On October 22, 1990 the city got its former name, and about at the same time, it began developping tourist business.

Today, the city, once playing such a significant role in the history of Russia, is developed into a modern metropolis. So, the urban development plan intends to build a metro bridge, cableway, funicular, and a new branched transport infrastructure there. Furthermore, Nizhny Novgorod is the Russia’s largest center of river cruise tourism and venue of Nizhny Novgorod fair-based major international exhibitions.

Nizhny Novgorod is one of the richest cultural centers of Russia. The most prominent artists have received education in the local theater and art schools. The city has opened a large number of theaters, museums and cinemas.

This city can surprise any traveler by an entwinement of modern and ancient buildings, each time rising before your eyes in a completely unexpected appearance.

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Hampton by Hilton Nizhny Novgorod

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• Opened: 2016
• Number of Rooms: 184

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Politics latest: Angela Rayner labels Rishi Sunak a 'pint-sized loser'; PM insists defence spending pledge 'fully-funded'

While Rishi Sunak spent the day heralding his defence spending commitment on a trip to Germany, Oliver Dowden and Angela Rayner stood in the prime minister and the Labour leader at PMQs.

Thursday 25 April 2024 02:05, UK

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• Sunak insists rise in defence spending is 'fully-funded'
• Beth Rigby:  PM seeking to position himself as a strong leader prepared to defend the country
• Sophy Ridge:  There are cracks underneath the apparent unity on defence spending
• Rayner presses Dowden on no-fault evictions - and raises Sky News report - after joke about 'obsession' with her living arrangements
• Labour deputy leader labels Sunak a 'pint-sized loser'
• Local elections:  Sam Coates on why they matter | Who can I vote for? | What Sunak and Starmer will be hoping for
• Live reporting by Tim Baker

 That's it for today.

We're wrapping up the Politics Hub, but make sure to join us again tomorrow.

And remember, at 7pm tomorrow there's a special episode of the Politics Hub with Sophy Ridge.

It will come live from one of our Target Towns, Grimsby, and will feature brand new polling and a live audience.

Before you go, here are some of today's main stories.

By Alexandra Rogers , political reporter 

Defence Secretary Grant Shapps has said he wants the new NATO target for defence spending to increase from the current 2% of gross domestic product to 2.5%.

Mr Shapps said it would make a "real difference" if the countries signed up to the military alliance met his proposed target.

He told Kay Burley on Sky News: "We're now saying we think that should be 2.5%. We think in a more dangerous world that would make sense.

"I will be arguing that, and I know that the prime minister feels strongly about it, when we go to the NATO 75th anniversary summit which is in Washington DC."

The defence secretary's intervention comes after Rishi Sunak pledged to increase UK defence spending to 2.5% of GDP by 2030 to tackle the "growing threats" posed by hostile states including Russia, Iran and China.

Speaking alongside NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg at a press conference in Warsaw yesterday, the prime minister said he planned to steadily increase defence spending by the end of the decade, rising to 2.4% a year until 2027-28 - then hitting 2.5% by 2030-31.

Funding will rise from £64.6bn in 2024 to £78.2bn in 2028, and then jump to £87bn in 2030-31.

Read more here:

"There isn't a single safe prosecution brought by the Post Office in the last couple of decades," Conservative MP and former minister David Davis has told Sky News.

He was responding to comments made by a lawyer representing former sub-postmasters, who told Sky News the Post Office scandal extends "greatly beyond" faulty Horizon software (see previous post).

Paul Marshall said problems with other systems which have been "overlooked" mean there are "no convictions" secured by the Post Office against any sub-postmaster "that could or should properly be treated as safe".

Sir Davis says although the government has done a "great deal already" to exonerate Horizon victims, "we probably have to do more".

He cites a report which he says found there are other cases that "at least deserved a very close look and probable exoneration, and that didn't happen".

He estimates the courts could go through " nearly all the cases in three or six months if we set ourselves the task of doing it".

He describes the Post Office as "a public body which wasn't serving the public".

By Adele Robinson , business correspondent

The Post Office scandal extends "greatly beyond" faulty Horizon software, according to a lawyer for victims.

Paul Marshall, representing former sub-postmasters, says problems with third party systems in branches, such as ATMs, have been "overlooked".

A 2013 report commissioned by the Post Office, and not made public at the time, states: "Removing the ATM reduces the risk of (the sub-postmaster) being suspended... as does the presence of lottery tickets, (banking) services, and DVLA processing."

It indicates there were issues known to the Post Office with third party systems within branches - separate to Horizon software.

Barrister Paul Marshall believes, as a result, there are "no convictions" secured by the Post Office against any sub-postmaster "that could or should properly be treated as safe".

He says evidence of third party errors, such as ATMs, shows "the scandal extends considerably beyond, greatly beyond, it might be said, the limited focus of bugs in Horizon".

Blanket exoneration legislation being introduced this summer will only quash convictions brought about "by erroneous Horizon evidence".

Mr Marshall asserts that postmasters who have had appeals against convictions rejected by the Court of Appeal may have lost because their offences didn't fall within the "narrow scope" of Horizon issues.

By Daniel Dunford , senior data journalist

There might not be a general election just yet, but there are important votes that will define how the areas around us are run for the next four years. 

See what's happening where you are here:

With a general election looming, what counts as gains and losses for the main parties in next week's locals? 

Sky's election analyst Michael Thrasher tells us what to look out for:

The Sky News live poll tracker - collated and updated by our Data and Forensics team - aggregates various surveys to indicate how voters feel about the different political parties.

With the local election campaign well under way, Labour is still sitting comfortably on a roughly 21-point lead, averaging at 43.5% in the polls, with the Tories on 23.5%.

In third is Reform UK on 12.2%, followed by the Lib Dems on 9.3%.

The Green Party stands at 6.3%, and the SNP on 3.0%.

See the latest update below - and you can read more about the methodology behind the tracker  here .

By Beth Rigby , political editor

This was a trip with two aims: to refocus the world's attention on Ukraine and announce a big boost in defence spending - with an eye, of course, on national security, but also on the general election.

When it comes to Ukraine, this was a co-ordinated effort across the Atlantic.

As Rishi Sunak arrived in Berlin, overnight in Washington the US was finally approving a $600m military aid package for Kyiv.

This was all designed to send a message to Russia - allies are in lockstep and will stand behind Ukraine for as long as it takes.

The prime minister used the Poland leg of the trip to commit the UK to spending 2.5% of GDP on defence by 2030, while in Berlin, Mr Sunak announced a formal bilateral security partnership with Germany to deepen co-operation on defence and military manufacturing.

It was all part of his agenda to position himself as a wartime leader, speaking of the UK's defence industry going onto a war footing as Europe stood at a turning point.

"The world we are living in is increasingly dangerous and the axis of authoritarian states are working together to undermine our security," he told his audience in Berlin.

"We need to do more. Germany has done more and we have met the NATO standard [on spending], and you see global defence spending is rising."

Mr Sunak added: "I do believe we will look back at this moment in time and recognise this inflection point, where the old paradigm is no longer the case and we need to adjust for a new paradigm."

Read Beth's full analysis here:

That's all for tonight. 

But make sure to join us again tomorrow - Sophy is heading to Grimsby to discuss why so many people have turned off politics.

There'll be a live audience and new polling laying out the situation in one of our Target Towns, so make sure to tune in at 7pm on Thursday.

By Jennifer Scott , political reporter 

Labour's Angela Rayner has attacked the Conservatives for "obsessing" over her living arrangements while renters continue to face uncertainty over the government's promise to end no-fault evictions.

The party's deputy leader has come under scrutiny over the sale of her former Stockport home before she was an MP, with claims she did not pay the right amount of capital gains tax and may have registered to vote at the wrong address - allegations she denies.

Greater Manchester Police are now looking into the latter issue, which could be a breach of electoral rules, following a complaint from Tory MP James Daly.

But standing in at Prime Minister's Questions on the day the much-delayed Renters' Reform Bill returned to the Commons, Ms Rayner said: "I know this party opposite is desperate to talk about my living arrangements, but the public want to know what this government is going to do about theirs."

Ministers first promised to scrap no-fault evictions - or Section 21s - in April 2019, but agreed to an indefinite delay to outlawing the mechanism after a group of Conservative backbenchers, including some landlords, raised concerns that the courts were not prepared for the legal cases that could replace them.

A new clause being added to the bill by the government today would, if approved, order an assessment of the courts before any ban could be enacted. But it offers no timetable for when the probe would have to take place.

Read more below:

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