Willkommen in Ulm! At 6 pm, meet your Tour Director and traveling companions for a welcome dinner at a local restaurant. (D)
Includes meal(s): Dinner
From Spring to Spire This morning, enjoy a short drive to Blaubeuren, a charming medieval town renowned for the Blautopf, a shimmering blue spring that has inspired myths, legends, and wonder for centuries. Following an orientation tour, visit the impressive Blaubeuren Abbey and discover its rich history. Return to Ulm for a guided sightseeing tour, taking in highlights such as Ulm Minster, Münsterplatz, and the picturesque Fischerviertel. The evening is yours to enjoy at leisure, whether exploring the city's atmospheric streets or sampling the excellent local cuisine in one of Ulm's many inviting restaurants. (B)
TOUR HIGHLIGHT
Blautopf (Blue Pot) is a captivating natural spring famous for its brilliant turquoise waters. Its remarkable color comes from tiny limestone particles that reflect sunlight, giving the pool an almost magical glow. Beneath the surface lies an extensive underground cave system, while local legends tell of the beautiful water nymph Lau, said to inhabit its mysterious depths. Combining natural beauty, fascinating geology, and folklore, the Blautopf is one of the most enchanting sights in southern Germany
Includes meal(s): Breakfast
Christmas beneath the Spire Enjoy a free day in Ulm, discovering more of this vibrant city at your own pace. Wander through its historic streets, soak up the festive atmosphere of the Christmas markets, visit the live nativity scene, or explore more of the city’s highlights. Be sure to sample some local Swabian specialities, from hearty regional dishes to traditional Christmas treats, served from the market's festive stalls and charming cafés. (B)
ENHANCED FREE TIME
Ulm’s Christmas Market is pure festive magic, set against the breathtaking backdrop of Ulm Minster and the world’s tallest church steeple. Wander among beautifully decorated stalls as the sounds of Christmas music fill the air. Warm your hands around a mug of Glühwein and enjoy the charm of a traditional live Nativity scene. With seasonal treats, festive traditions, and an unforgettable setting, it’s easy to see why Ulm is considered one of Germany’s most atmospheric Christmas markets
Includes meal(s): Breakfast
Festive Bavaria Continue your discovery of Ulm at your own pace or join an optional excursion to the Bavarian capital of Munich. Enjoy an orientation tour featuring some of the city's most iconic landmarks, including Marienplatz and the magnificent New Town Hall, before enjoying free time to immerse yourself in Munich's renowned Christmas markets. Browse festive stalls, sample seasonal treats, and soak up the magical Advent atmosphere before returning to Ulm for an evening at leisure. (B)
ENHANCED FREE TIME
Experience the historic and cultural heart of Munich at Marienplatz, the city's central square since 1158. Surrounded by architectural landmarks, including the magnificent Old and New Town Halls, this vibrant square has long been the focal point of Munich life. During the festive season, Marienplatz transforms into a magical Christmas setting, hosting the renowned Christkindlmarkt beneath a towering Christmas tree. Just a short stroll away, discover the Kripperlmarkt, one of Germany's largest and most cherished nativity scene markets
Includes meal(s): Breakfast
Fairytale Bavaria Travel through Bavaria's picturesque winter landscapes to the fairytale splendor of Neuschwanstein. Enjoy a guided visit of King Ludwig’s castle, probably one of the most recognizable in the world as it provided inspiration for Walt Disney’s Sleeping Beauty Castle. Later, head to Füssen at the southern point of the Romantic Road, enjoy some free time to explore before driving to Lake Constance to spend time discovering the charming island of Lindau and browsing the Christmas Markets on the lakeside promenade. Return to Ulm for an evening at leisure. (B)
TOUR HIGHLIGHT
King Ludwig II of Bavaria, the “Fairy-tale King,” built a fantastical 1800s castle with all the modern conveniences (aka plumbing), while emphasizing the romantic vision of a storybook castle. His love for Wagnerian opera is literally plastered on the walls inside, with panoramas and frescoes of scenes from the composer’s great works. So romantic and fanciful of design, Neuschwanstein Castle inspired Walt Disney’s blueprint of a castle fit for Sleeping Beauty herself
Includes meal(s): Breakfast
Twinkling Lights & Timeless Sights Enjoy free time to experience Ulm's festive charm, with sparkling lights, seasonal aromas, and a warm holiday atmosphere throughout the city. Wander through the enchanting Fischerviertel, where half-timbered houses and canals create a picture-perfect winter scene, or pause for a traditional cup of Glühwein. Be sure to have your camera ready for the illuminated spire of Ulm Minster, the waterways beside the Schiefes Haus, a charming medieval leaning house that has become one of the city's most photographed landmarks, and the panoramic views from the Berblinger Tower. This evening, celebrate the conclusion of your festive journey with a farewell dinner alongside your fellow travellers. (B,D)
ENHANCED FREE TIME
Named after the legendary "Tailor of Ulm," aviation pioneer Albrecht Ludwig Berblinger, the Berblinger Tower stands above the Danube on the site of his famous 1811 flight attempt. During the festive season, the tower offers stunning views of Ulm's twinkling winter skyline and the illuminated river below. The climb is rewarded with spectacular panoramas, but its steep, inclined spiral staircase is certainly not for the faint-hearted
Includes meal(s): Breakfast, Dinner
Safe travels until we meet again!
Your vacation ends with breakfast this morning. The nearest airport is Stuttgart(B)
