Tours Christmas & New Year Tours Europe Highlights Christmas

Europe Highlights Christmas

Countries: 7 Days: 10 Per Day: US$ 206
Start Point:Rome
End Point:Rome
Transport:Private coach
Accommodation:Hotel
Ages:10 - 75+
From US$ 2,065
check-greenFlexible booking: 10-day money-back guarantee

Price per person in twin share room

2025 dates for this tour are now available to book online! Scroll down to view and pay just a 10% deposit to secure the lowest price

More reasons to book with us

  • Flexible bookings: 10-day money-back guarantee & free date changes
  • Low deposit secures your booking
  • Services of your Expat Explore tour leader
  • Pay the remaining balance off in instalments
  • FREE Wi-Fi in hotels

Summary

Discover the many festive delights of Europe at Christmas time! This 10-day Europe Highlights Christmas tour showcases top cities, hidden gems and spectacular scenery in 7 countries. Experience the charming Christmas markets, be dazzled by the impressive light displays and indulge in regional festive cuisine! Tick top sights in Venice, Munich, Florence and Paris off your bucket-list. Cruise the Rhine River, spend Christmas Day in Amsterdam and experience the beauty of the snowy Swiss Alps. This winter holiday will leave you with a lifetime of memories! 

This tour starts and ends in Rome, but does not include any accommodation in Rome. For a similar itinerary that includes two nights in Rome, have a look at our Europe Escape Christmas & New Year tour.

Highlights

  • Celebrate Christmas in Amsterdam!
  • Explore Venice, Amsterdam, Florence, Munich and more
  • Cruise along the Rhine Valley and Amsterdam’s canals
  • Enjoy free days to explore Paris and the Swiss Alps
  • Visit Burgundy, Ghent and Innsbruck

Start Point

Hotel in Rome | 07:30 AM

End Point

Hotel in Rome | 07:30 PM
DAY 1: Start of tour in Rome - Venice

Your festive journey through Europe begins today! Meet up with your tour leader and fellow travellers in Rome early this morning and hop aboard the coach. Experience some stunning scenery while travelling towards Venice. Look forward to seeing top Venice attractions including St. Mark’s Square, the Rialto Bridge and the enchanting grand canal. The evening is free to explore some of the Christmas markets and soak up the festive Venetian vibe! Venice was made to be viewed from the canals so why not join the Evening in Venice optional excursion for a water taxi and gondola cruise followed by dinner?

DAY 1: Start of tour in Rome - Venice

Your festive journey through Europe begins today! Meet up with your tour leader and fellow travellers in Rome early this morning and hop aboard the coach. Experience some stunning scenery while travelling towards Venice. Look forward to seeing top Venice attractions including St. Mark’s Square, the Rialto Bridge and the enchanting grand canal. The evening is free to explore some of the Christmas markets and soak up the festive Venetian vibe! Venice was made to be viewed from the canals so why not join the Evening in Venice optional excursion for a water taxi and gondola cruise followed by dinner?

Experiences

Explore Venice: Discover the magic of Venice, Italy’s unique floating city. Venice is full of iconic sights including St Mark’s Square, St Mark’s Basilica, St Mark’s Museum, Campanile, Doge’s Palace, Rialto Market and Scuola Grande di San Rocco. For the ultimate Venice experience, join today’s optional excursions!

Accommodation

Hotel

On Tour Excursions

DAY 2: Venice - Innsbruck - Bavaria

Arrivederci Italy! After breakfast, the tour makes its way to Austria. Marvel at the beautiful countryside as we travel through the incredible Brenner Pass. Arrive in Innsbruck and enjoy an orientation tour of this charming city which is surrounded by breathtaking alpine nature. Later, travel onwards to the third country of the day; Germany! The tour will arrive in Munich, the Bavarian capital, later in the afternoon. Discover this fascinating and historic city and see some of its highlights on an orientation tour. This evening, get a taste of what Munich is perhaps best known for - Oktoberfest! Enjoy dinner in a traditional beer hall and say “Prost!” with some local beer.

Experiences

Scenic drive along Brenner Pass: Cross spectacular mountain passes and experience some amazing mountain vistas en route to Innsbruck in Austria.

Visit Innsbruck: Enjoy a comfort stop to experience this beautiful Austrian city that lies in a valley between high mountains, making for an incredible backdrop.

Munich orientation tour: Enjoy an orientation tour of Munich, the capital and largest city in the German state of Bavaria, with your tour leader. See highlights such as Karlsplatz and Marienplatz, New Town Hall, Church of our Lady, and (if you visit in winter) the traditional German Christmas markets.

German beer hall: Tonight, enjoy dinner in a traditional German Beer Hall. Sample German beer, along with traditional German cuisine. Prost!

Meals

BreakfastDinner

Accommodation

Hotel


DAY 3: Bavaria - Rhine Valley (Christmas Eve)

The festive adventures continue in Germany today! Get ready to celebrate Christmas Eve in style as the tour makes its way to the gorgeous Rhine Valley. Experience this region’s striking scenery on a cruise along the Rhine River! Look forward to magical views of vineyards, medieval towns and Gothic castles. The cruise comes to an end in Boppard where the group will enjoy an included wine tasting. You may even get a taste of eiswein, a sweet dessert wine only harvested in freezing temperatures. Tonight, indulge in a delicious Christmas Eve dinner.

Experiences

Rhine River cruise: Cruise down the Rhine River and see the beautiful scenery and the largest concentration of gothic castles (Sterrenberg, Liebestein, Katz and Fortress Rheinfels) in Europe. Learn the story of the castles, many of which are now in ruins since the river barons left long ago.

Rhine Valley wine tasting: Visit a local wine merchant in one of Germany’s most famous wine-growing regions, and sample several types of delicious German wine. Popular varieties include Riesling, Spätburgunder and Pinot Noir. The region is also well known for eiswein (ice wine). It is a very sweet dessert wine made from grapes harvested in the freezing winter months.

Meals

BreakfastDinner

Accommodation

Hotel


DAY 4: Rhine Valley - Amsterdam (Christmas Day)

It’s Christmas Day! What better way to celebrate this special day than with more memorable travel moments? Bid Auf Wiedersehen to Germany and travel onwards to the Netherlands this morning. First stop is the iconic Riekermolen Windmill! Snap some fun pictures and then, see how Dutch cheese and clogs are made! Finally, arrive in Amsterdam, the vibrant capital of the Netherlands. Make your way into the city centre for a twilight canal cruise and admire the city’s famous landmarks from the water. The Amsterdam Light Festival takes place during this time of the year which means you’ll get to see some of the impressive light displays! Tonight, an included Christmas dinner awaits at a local restaurant.

Experiences

Windmill photo stop: Enjoy a photo stop at the Riekermolen Windmill. No visit to the Netherlands is complete without some fun photos of the iconic Dutch windmills!

Cheese and clogs demonstration: See how these famous shoes are traditionally made by hand and taste some fantastic cheeses. Take this opportunity to shop and stock up on unique Dutch souvenirs.

Cruise along the canals in Amsterdam: Sail along Amsterdam’s stunning canals at twilight and see the iconic sights that sit along the waterside - this is a perfect, relaxing introduction to Amsterdam! Better yet, you’ll get to see the elaborate displays of the Amsterdam Light Festival!

Christmas Dinner in Amsterdam: Celebrate Christmas alongside your new travel friends with an included group dinner in Amsterdam.

Meals

BreakfastDinner

Accommodation

Hotel


DAY 5: Amsterdam - Ghent - Paris

Today features another day jam-packed with bucket-list experiences! This morning, leave the Netherlands behind for Belgium. Visit Ghent and enjoy an orientation tour of this enchanting medieval city. Enjoy free time to get lunch - this is also the perfect time to try a Belgian waffle! Then, the “City of Lights and Love” is just waiting to be explored. Arrive in Paris in the evening and embark on a driving tour which will showcase icons of the city such as the Eiffel Tower and the Arc de Triomphe. Get your first taste of French cuisine with an included dinner tonight.

Experiences

Visit Ghent: Experience the beautiful city of Ghent - one of Belgium’s oldest cities! This cultural hub and university town is filled with magnificent medieval architecture. Enjoy some free time to explore and taste some authentic Belgian cuisine! 

Driving tour of Paris: Enjoy a driving tour and discover the beauty of the “City of Lights”! Spot the Tuileries Gardens, the River Seine, l'Île de la Cité, the Louvre Museum, the Eiffel Tower, the Arc de Triomphe, Lovers Bridge, Sacré Cœur, Montmartre, Pigalle (the Red Light District) and the Moulin Rouge!

Meals

BreakfastDinner

Accommodation

Hotel


DAY 6: Paris: Free Day

Paris offers so much to those who visit, from bucket-list attractions and world-class cuisine to charming cafés and fascinating museums. This day is free to experience Paris in whichever way you choose! Wander through the Christmas markets, get a hot chocolate in a café or do some shopping, the choice is yours. To tick multiple Parisien experiences off your bucket-list, join the Paris Like Locals optional excursion! Indulge in a macaron tasting, visit the Fragonard Musée du Parfum, experience the vibrant Latin Quarter and more! Tonight, why not join the Evening in Montmartre optional excursion and experience one of the most beloved neighbourhoods in Paris? Or, experience an optional cabaret show!

Meals

Breakfast

Accommodation

Hotel

On Tour Excursions

DAY 7: Paris - Burgundy - Swiss Alps

There’s one more French stop on the agenda before the tour travels onwards to Switzerland. Visit Beaune, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the wine capital of the Burgundy wine region. Here, taste some local wine, grab some lunch or visit the Hospices de Beaune. Afterwards, look forward to some truly spectacular scenery as the tour crosses the border into Switzerland. Admire the alpine surroundings, snow-capped mountain peaks and sweeping countryside views. Arrive at tonight’s accommodation and enjoy an included dinner at the hotel.

Experiences

Visit Beaune in Burgundy: Enjoy a stop in Beaune, a UNESCO World Heritage site and famous wine-producing region. Take some free time to explore the beautiful medieval town centre and try some local food and wine.

Scenic Swiss Mountain Drive: Admire the spectacular views as the coach drives through mountain passes and alongside lakes, breathtaking mountain vistas and scenic views of quaint Swiss towns.

Meals

BreakfastDinner

Accommodation

Hotel


DAY 8: Swiss Alps: Free Day

Good morning Switzerland! Make the most of this full free day in the Swiss Alps by joining one of our highest-rated optional excursions - a journey to the “Top of Europe”! Travel to Jungfraujoch, the highest train station in Europe and look forward to exceptional mountain vistas, year-round snow, an enchanting ice palace and many more fun activities and photo opportunities. Alternatively, stay in Interlaken and explore some of the surrounding villages and get a taste of authentic Swiss life. After a memorable day of explorations, choose to join the optional dinner tonight and indulge in delicious, cheesy Swiss fondue!

Meals

Breakfast

Accommodation

Hotel

On Tour Excursions

DAY 9: Lake Como - Tuscany

This morning, leave the Swiss Alps and head back to Italy! This time, the tour travels to the region of Tuscany which is known for its unique cuisine and wine culture as well as its historic art and architecture. First stop is the glamorous Lake Como. Discover some of the dazzling sights on the banks of this freshwater lake on an orientation tour. Why not find a scenic spot to enjoy lunch with a view? The last stop of the day is Montecatini, a Tuscan spa town. Settle into the hotel for the evening or explore the town with your free evening.

Experiences

Lake Como lunch stop: Enjoy free time for lunch at Lake Como in Italy, one of the most beautiful and glamorous destinations visited on this tour!

Meals

Breakfast

Accommodation

Hotel


DAY 10: Pisa - Florence - Rome (New Year’s Eve)

It may be the last day of tour but the journey isn’t over yet! First up on today’s agenda is a true icon of Italy - the Leaning Tower of Pisa! Be sure to get some creative pictures of you “holding up” the tower. Then, travel to Florence. This majestic city, known as the “Jewel of the Renaissance”, is home to many artistic masterpieces, including Michaelangelo’s David. Embark on a walking tour with a local guide and learn more about this top travel destination. Enjoy free time to explore or join the Taste of Tuscany optional excursion and have a delicious farewell lunch with the group. Later, head back to Rome where this tour will come to an end.

Experiences

See the iconic Leaning Tower of Pisa: See the world-famous Leaning Tower of Pisa, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of Europe’s most famous cultural landmarks. Take some iconic pictures of you ‘holding up’ the tower!

Guided walking tour of Florence: Join an expert local guide on a walking tour and see the main sights, including the Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore, Ponte Vecchio, Piazza Della Signoria and the replica statue of David.

Meals

Breakfast

On Tour Excursions

What's Included

Accommodation

  • 9 nights hotel accommodation in twin rooms with private bathrooms. The majority of our accommodations are of a 3- and 4-star standard, offering excellent value, comfort and convenience
  • Single travellers have the option to pay a single supplement to ensure a private room (subject to availability)

Meals

  • 9 Breakfasts, 5 Dinners 
    *Vegetarian options available for all meals on request

Transport

  • Modern air-conditioned coach with reclining seats and toilet onboard
  • Any public transport used as part of the tour (excludes free days)

Tour Leader

  • Fully guided tour with experienced tour leader
  • Tour leader will accompany group throughout and manage all logistical details

18 Experiences!

  • Explore Venice, Italy’s floating city
  • Marvel at the scenery along Brenner Pass
  • Visit Innsbruck; a beautiful Austrian city
  • Explore Munich; capital of Bavaria
  • Enjoy dinner and drinks in a traditional German beer hall
  • Cruise along the Rhine River
  • Indulge in a wine tasting in the Rhine Valley
  • Visit the iconic Riekermolen Windmill
  • Enjoy a traditional cheese and clogs demonstration
  • Cruise the canals and see the displays of the Amsterdam Light Festival
  • Enjoy Christmas dinner in Amsterdam
  • Visit Ghent, a beautiful medieval city in Belgium
  • See the sights of Paris on a driving tour
  • Visit Burgundy; a French wine region
  • Marvel at the views on a scenic Swiss mountain drive
  • Visit the idyllic Lake Como
  • See the iconic Leaning Tower of Pisa
  • Explore Florence; the birthplace of the Renaissance

Accommodation

We partner with a range of hand-picked hotels in each destination. The hotels listed below are those we stay at most frequently. However, you may stay at different hotels of a similar standard. 

A confirmed list of hotels is emailed to all travellers prior to their tour departure. To extend your stay in Rome, click here to book pre and post-tour accommodation through our partner Booking.com.

Venice

Photos of the tour

Optional Excursions

Unless marked as “Pre-Book”, all optional excursions can be booked on tour and paid for in cash (in the stated currency) to your tour leader. Prices and availability are subject to change.

Dates & Rates

2025 dates for this tour are now available to book online! Scroll down to view and pay just a 10% deposit to secure the lowest price

Our pricing model: Whether you book early or take advantage of our special promotions, you’ll always get fantastic value when you choose to travel with us.
Years
Start Date / End DateFlexible BookingStatusPrice Per Person
22 Dec 2025 - 31 Dec 2025Flexible booking date for 2025-12-22Book now with low deposit US$2,065

Number of travellers

Payment option

Flexible booking: flexible booking

Additional Information

For pre-departure and visa information, as well as frequently asked questions regarding preparing for and travelling on this tour, please visit our Help Centre .

Additional Information Help Centre

Reviews

Reviews powered by: Power Reviews

32 reviews
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Christie Verified Buyer 2024-01-15
Magical Christmas & New Years with Expat Explorer
I just got back from the 12 Day Christmas and New Year's Europe Escape tour (2023/2024) & being the 1st time I've been away from home for the holidays, I found it simply magical, everything I hoped for plus more.. This tour is fast paced with plenty of early morning departures and plenty of walking, but the trade off is that you get to experience as much as possible in each of the cities along the way. As a solo traveler, I never felt unsafe or alone and the camadarie of the group was instant. I also appreciate that this tour allows you the freedom to choose between various pre-set excursions in any given city and/or the option to go off and explore on your own and/or workout a hybrid of such with your tour leader. If you are on the fence about booking an Expat Explorer tour, I say do yourself a favor and just book it.
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Cbear Verified Buyer 2024-01-03
So much packed in
I loved the tour. It was very fast paced but we saw so much. The meals that were included were for the most part excellent. The add on excursions were well chosen and packed in even more. It was very good value for money.
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Bry Verified Buyer 2024-01-02
Above and Beyond for our First Europe Tour
My girlfriend and I were a bit hesitant before on going on a guided tour/excursion due to time constraints and tight schedule, BUT our expectations were proven wrong, and beyond! It was an unforgettable experience for both of us! To sum it up- Tour Leader Luke + 7 European countries= A Match Made in Heaven!
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Zander Verified Buyer 2024-01-01
VIP Experience of a lifetime
The tour was incredible, the sights we saw, the attractions we went on and the people we meet were amazing.
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Hannopa Verified Buyer 2024-01-01
Awesome Time!
Our tour leader Luke was very engaging and informative throughout our time with him. He made the most out of each day with his endless energy and passion for history.