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A Christmas-market tour by coach

Published

Christmas markets in central Europe open between mid and late November. Some close on 24 December, while others, such as Vienna, Salzburg and Prague, stay open until after Christmas or into early January. Several of the best are only a few hours apart by road, which makes them ideal for a group coach tour.

Cities that pair well

  • Munich and Salzburg: about 145 km, under 2 hours apart.
  • Salzburg and Vienna: about 295 km, around 3 hours 10 minutes.
  • Vienna and Prague: about 330 km, under 4 hours.
  • Strasbourg and Colmar: about 70 km, a short evening run between two Alsace markets.

A sample five-day route

Munich – Salzburg – Vienna – Prague keeps each driving day short enough for an afternoon and evening at the market. Put the longest leg, Vienna to Prague, on a morning, and visit the markets after dark when the lights are on.

Coaches near the markets

Markets fill historic squares where coaches cannot stop. Groups are dropped at the nearest coach bay and walk in, so agree a clear meeting point and return time. In the evening, roads around the centre are busy; leave extra time for the pickup.

Book early

Weekends from late November to mid-December are among the busiest times for coaches in these cities. Send your dates as early as you can; weekday visits are quieter and easier to book.

Routes in this guide — estimated prices

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