Begin in Budapest, and acquaint yourself with the city through a mixture of delicious food and richly textured culture. Join a private guide and peruse cheery Christmas markets, neighborhood shops, and local bakeries, sampling Hungarian specialties along the way. See the city from a completely different perspective aboard a private vintage boat on the Danube, then discover the fascinating story of Budapest-born illusionist Harry Houdini. Before you leave, you’ll wrap up your stay on a festive high with a holiday performance amidst the stunning backdrop of the Hungarian State Opera.

Next up: Vienna, one of Europe’s most elegant cities at Christmas. Spend four days surrounded by imperial history, incredible art, and some seriously good pastries. Explore Schönbrunn Palace after hours before an unforgettable Christmas concert in the historic Schönbrunn Orangery, wander the elegant streets of the First District, and admire Gustav Klimt masterpieces at the Belvedere before browsing its picture-perfect Christmas market. Roll up your sleeves for a private lesson in traditional Viennese Christmas cookies with a local master baker, then experience the legendary Lipizzaner stallions at the Spanish Riding School, followed by a behind-the-scenes look at this centuries-old institution.

Trade the city for the Austrian countryside and settle into Rosewood Schloss Fuschl, a restored 15th-century castle perched on the shores of Lake Fuschl. Spend a day exploring Salzburg’s UNESCO-listed Old Town and rich musical heritage before venturing deeper into the Salzkammergut, where wintry mountains, glassy lakes, and impossibly pretty villages make almost every turn feel like a postcard. Visit Hallstatt and admire the imperial architecture of Bad Ischl, then slow things down back at the castle. With time to enjoy the spa, lake views, and a leisurely New Year’s Eve at the hotel, this is one of the best places in Europe to end the year.

Cross the Alps into Munich for the final few days of your adventure. Enjoy the expertise of a private guide to the historic Old Town, from Marienplatz and its famous Glockenspiel to the grand Residenz and bustling Viktualienmarkt. You’ll want plenty of time to wander, too. Duck into a cozy café, browse local boutiques, and savor one last taste of Bavarian city life before heading home.