Christmas Markets in the Rhine and Neckar Valleys

Local departure by coach or Home Connect service, then to Belgium for an overnight stay.

This morning, we depart Belgium and travel to Trier, Germany's oldest city. Emperor Augustus founded Trier as a Roman colony in 16 BC. It later became the favoured residence of several Roman emperors and was known as 'Roma Secunda', the second Rome.

The Cathedral of Trier is one of the main sights of the city. Originally built by Constantine the Great, the first Christian Roman Emperor, it is the oldest church in Germany and houses great works of art as well as the Holy Robe, a garment said to have been worn by Jesus at his crucifixion.

At Trier's markets, festively decorated wooden huts offer a wide range of Christmas goods, including decorations, wooden toys, candles, hand-blown glassware, ceramics, crafts and much more. There are also plenty of tasty treats to stave off the cold, such as bratwurst sausages, potato pancakes, sweets, hot tea and glühwein.

We then continue on to the city of Mannheim, our base for three nights.

Nestled between the Neckar River and the foothills of the Odenwald forest, the small city of Heidelberg is known for its renowned university and its fascinating castle. In the centre of the Old Town is Marktplatz, which boasts one of Heidelberg's many ornate fountains, grand period houses, cafés and plenty of pretty little shops. It is also home to numerous Christmas stalls!

More Christmas markets can be found in Universitätsplatz, with an antique carousel, mulled wine and bratwursts! For those looking for a romantic setting, head to Karlsplatz to see one of the most spectacular ice rinks in Germany, set against the world-famous castle ruins.

Today, enjoy a free day in Mannheim to visit one of Germany's oldest Christmas markets, which attracts many thousands of visitors each year. The market extends around the Mannheim Water Tower at Friedrichsplatz, a city landmark which, along with other historic buildings, forms an impressive backdrop. The stalls offer a wide variety of specialities, including handmade arts and crafts as well as traditional German treats and drinks, from mulled wine and roasted almonds to a hearty bratwurst.

The markets in Kapuzinerplanken, which mostly offer crafts and artwork, are perfect for a souvenir or a Christmas present. In Paradeplatz, meanwhile, statues and animated displays tell the classic fairy tales.

Alternatively, join our optional excursion to the city of Frankfurt and its popular Christmas market. A major financial centre, Frankfurt is often called 'Mainhattan' thanks to its high-powered finance and business district on the banks of the River Main. It is home to one of the world's largest stock exchanges, and its airport is among the busiest in Europe. Despite all of this, the city centre is charming and traditional, with half-timbered buildings and cosy taverns.

At this time of year, Frankfurt hosts one of the loveliest Christmas markets in Germany. The elaborately decorated stalls, huddled around the Römerberg and St Paul's Square, make this a Christmas experience you'll never forget.

This morning, we depart Mannheim and head to Mainz to visit the Christmas markets. An annual highlight in the heart of the city, the market has origins dating back to 1788, making it one of the most historic in Germany.

Known for its vibrant history and cultural diversity, Mainz provides the perfect setting, with three main locations: the Marktplatz, Höfchen and Liebfrauenplatz. Set against the 1,000-year-old St Martin's Cathedral, the market creates a truly wonderful festive atmosphere. Take a walk through the inviting streets of the old town, with its attractively decorated shops and boutiques, as a hundred stalls illuminate several streets and squares, each area offering its own unique goods and attractions.

Afterwards, we continue to our overnight hotel in Belgium.

Return home.