Basel, Colmar & Black Forest Festivities

DAY 1

Travelling by Eurostar from London St Pancras to Paris, then onwards to Basel and our base for four nights, the GAIA Hotel, where we check in and enjoy our first evening meal together.

DAY 2

After breakfast this morning, we explore Basel's beautiful historic old town and are free to enjoy the festive atmosphere, unique local crafts, and culinary delights of the Basel Christmas Markets*. A festive visit to Basel would not be complete without visiting the famous Johann Wanner Shop where it is Christmas all year round, delight in hand-blown glass baubles and artfully decorated ornaments. This evening, we cruise towards the sunset on the Rhine River and indulge in a delicious evening meal on board.

DAY 3

Today, we travel by train to medieval Colmar in France where we explore the fairytale Colmar Christmas Markets* and wander through the gorgeous half-timbered houses with their fantastic festive stalls. The historical Old Town brings the magic of Christmas through amazing illuminations and decorations. Afterwards, we will discover the fascinating history of Alsatian wines and vineyards including a tasting at the Musée des Vins before returning to Basel.

DAY 4

This morning, we travel by rail to Freiburg, situated on the edge of the Black Forest in Germany. We enjoy free time to explore the city and visit the magical Freiburg Christmas Markets*, strolling through the beautifully decorated market stalls full of festive treats and gifts. Our time in Freiburg includes a journey on the Schlossberg Railway, a rail-bound cable car offering spectacular panoramic views of the city. We retrace our steps to Basel where we enjoy our final evening at leisure to soak in the festive atmosphere.

DAY 5

We bid farewell to Basel and to Switzerland, returning by rail to Paris, where we will join the Eurostar service to London St Pancras.

*Important Note: The Basel, Colmar, and Freiburg Christmas Markets are subject to change therefore we do reserve the right to make substitutions should it be deemed necessary for whatever reason.

B=Breakfast, D=Dinner