Christmas Markets of Northern Europe Flight Free Adventure

Duration
11 days
Group Size
12 people
Price
From £3795
Region
Europe
Image link

Overview

Join us for a unique opportunity to travel in comfort and style through Europe to the Baltic States — all flight-free and mostly by first-class train.

This tour is part of a collection of more sustainable, flight-free small group journeys operated by our sister brand Adventures by Train, featuring first-class rail travel and high-quality 4- and 5-star accommodation.

This fully escorted journey has been thoughtfully planned to provide a seamless and festive travel experience. Enjoy first-class rail travel, comfortable accommodation, expertly guided excursions, and selected meals throughout.

Our adventure begins at London’s magnificent Gothic Revival St Pancras Station. Here you will meet your Tour Leader by the statue of Poet Laureate John Betjeman, who famously campaigned to save the station from demolition. From London, we board the Eurostar to Brussels and continue onwards to Cologne, where we will immerse ourselves in our first festive city.

The journey continues to Hanover for further exploration before we travel into Poland via Berlin. In Poznan and Warsaw, we discover these vibrant cities through fun, slightly unconventional city tours, while also enjoying their superb Christmas markets and soaking up the festive atmosphere.

We then make our way through the Baltic capitals, exploring their charming, fairytale-like Old Towns on foot. Beyond the cities, we venture further into the countryside to admire grand architecture, historic castles, and in Estonia, experience the wild beauty, crisp air, and evocative winter landscapes.

So, wrap up warm and join us on a festive, flight-free adventure as we uncover some of Europe’s most enchanting destinations.

Highlights

Included/Excluded

The services of an Undiscovered Destinations’ tour leader
All accommodation as per the itinerary or similar standard
Daily breakfast (B), plus lunch (L) and dinner (D) where shown in the itinerary
Rail travel based on first class seats apart from if indicated in the itinerary
Guided sightseeing tours as per itinerary, with the services of a private English-speaking guide or driver/guide
Unless stated otherwise, entrance fees for sites listed as part of the itinerary
Travel Insurance
Visas – if required
Meals and drinks not stated in the itinerary
Tips (Discretionary)
Flights and transfer on completion of the tour

Tour Ratings

Fitness: 3/5
Unexplored: 3/5
Culture: 3/5
History: 4/5
Wildlife: 0/5
Tour-pace: 4/5
Image link

Map and Tour Itinerary

Embark on a beautifully paced festive rail journey from London to the Baltic capitals, travelling in comfort through Germany, Poland, Lithuania, Latvia, and Estonia. Discover atmospheric Old Towns, expertly guided walking tours, and some of Europe’s most enchanting Christmas markets, each offering its own blend of tradition, local flavours, and seasonal charm. Along the way enjoy First Class rail travel, authentic regional cuisine, and a memorable finale in medieval Tallinn, creating a wonderfully immersive and festive winter adventure.

Itinerary Highlights
Europe’s Finest Christmas Markets

Experience the festive charm of Christmas markets across Germany, Poland, Lithuania, Latvia, and Estonia, each offering handcrafted gifts, seasonal treats, and a magical atmosphere unique to its city.

Expertly Guided Old Town Walking Tours

Enjoy insightful walking tours led by knowledgeable local guides, bringing to life the medieval streets of Cologne, Hanover, Poznan, Warsaw, Vilnius, Riga, and Tallinn through history, culture, and local storytelling.

First Class Rail Travel Across Five Countries

Travel in comfort and style on a fully escorted rail journey from London to the Baltic States, using a combination of Eurostar, high-speed ICE services, and cross-border First Class trains for a smooth and scenic experience.

Immersive Local Cuisine and Tastings

Savour traditional dishes and regional flavours, from Polish specialities to Baltic favourites, complemented by culinary stops and tastings that introduce the character and heritage of each destination.

Enchanting Baltic Landscapes and Cultural Heritage

Discover the natural and cultural beauty of the Baltic region, including Trakai Castle on Lake Galvė, Riga’s Art Nouveau district, and Estonia’s forests and wetlands, culminating in a memorable finale in medieval Tallinn.

Day 1: London to Brussels and Cologne

Meet your Undiscovered Destinations Tour Leader at London’s impressive Gothic Revival St Pancras Station. We take an early-morning Eurostar (approximately 7:00am; exact timings will be confirmed closer to departure) and enjoy a light breakfast served at your seat while travelling in Eurostar Plus class. Upon arrival at Brussels Midi, we allow ample time to connect with a high-speed German ICE train in first class for our onward journey to Cologne. Once in Cologne, we walk the short distance to our hotel, conveniently located next to the city’s famous cathedral, where we check in for an overnight stay. At around 2:30pm, we meet our local guide for a walking tour of Cologne’s storybook Old Town, taking in sites such as the Roman City, Old Market, the Rhine riverside area, fish market, town hall and the cathedral. The tour will conclude by visiting our first festive Christmas market of the trip. After the tour, there is free time to explore the market further at your own pace, and the evening at leisure. Overnight Hilton Cologne or similar. (B)

Day 2: Cologne to Hanover

Enjoy a leisurely breakfast at the hotel before boarding a direct first-class ICE train to Hanover, departing mid-morning. Speed across the rural and industrial landscapes of Germany, arriving in Hanover at around 1:30pm. After checking in at our conveniently located hotel, just minutes from the station, we set out at approximately 2:30pm with an experienced local guide. Our tour begins with a short culinary journey, sampling local delicacies along the way. We then explore the city and its key sites such as Holzmarkt, Market church, Leineschloss, as well as discovering old town alleys and admiring old town facades. We also learn how Hanover has risen from the devastation of wartime destruction. The final part of our exploration takes us to the city’s festive Christmas Market, including the enchanting Finnish Christmas Village. After the tour, enjoy free time to continue exploring the market or to have dinner at your leisure in the city. The walking distance in Hanover is approx. 3.5km today. Overnight Central Hotel Kaiserhof or similar. (B plus tastings during the city tour)

Day 3: Hanover to Poznan (Poland)

Today we continue our trans-European adventure as we travel from Hanover to Poznan, with a train change in Berlin. We are scheduled to depart Berlin shortly after 9:00am and arrive in Poznan around 3:00pm. Upon arrival, we take a short 10-minute walk to our conveniently located hotel near the station. This afternoon, enjoy some free time to relax or begin exploring the city at your own pace. In the evening, we venture into town for a delightful dinner at an authentic local restaurant, sampling traditional Polish cuisine. Overnight Mercure Centrum Poznan or similar. (BD)

Day 4: Poznan

After a leisurely breakfast at the hotel, we set out around 10:00am for a full-day, interactive, and entertaining walking tour of Poznan. This excursion is designed to be fun, informative, and a little quirky, taking us beyond the main sights to discover the city’s hidden gems in an alternative yet thoroughly enjoyable way. During the day, we will stop for a traditional lunch at a local restaurant and also spend time exploring Poznan’s charming Christmas Market, with its centrepiece in the picturesque Market Square. After the tour, the rest of the late afternoon and evening is at your leisure to relax or continue soaking up the festive atmosphere. Overnight Mercure Centrum Poznan or similar. (BL)

Total walking distance today is approx. 4km and easy terrain. Good footwear still required in old town.  

Day 5: Poznan – Warsaw

This morning, we continue our rail journey east across Poland, passing through forests and charming small towns before arriving in the capital, Warsaw. We are scheduled to arrive around noon, after which we take a short walk to our conveniently located hotel. If our rooms are not yet ready, we can leave our bags at the hotel before heading out. We then enjoy a traditional lunch at a local restaurant, followed by a fun and informal interactive tour of central Warsaw. This tour highlights both the city’s essential sights and its quirkier corners, culminating with a visit to the Old Town Christmas Market as darkness falls, bathing the market in festive lights. After the sightseeing, the remainder of the evening is free for you to relax or continue exploring at your leisure. Overnight Mercure Hotel Centrum or similar. (BL)

Total walking distance today is approx. 4km and easy terrain. Good footwear still required in old town.

Day 6: Warsaw to Vilnius (Lithuania)

Today is our longest travel day, covering nearly 600 km. We depart Warsaw at approximately 9:00am and are expected to arrive in Vilnius, Lithuania, around 5:30pm, subject to schedule. We will be travelling in First Class, with the journey divided into two parts, requiring a simple cross-platform change at the border. Please note that the Polish train to the border does not have dining facilities, so we recommend purchasing a picnic lunch before departure. The Lithuanian train from the border to Vilnius does offer refreshment services, allowing you to order from your seat. Sit back, relax, and enjoy the changing scenery of both Poland and Lithuania as the day passes. Upon arrival in Vilnius, it is a short 10-minute walk to our hotel. The evening is at your leisure, with a wide selection of restaurants nearby. Overnight City Gate Hotel or similar. (B)

 Day 7: Vilnius sightseeing

After a leisurely breakfast, we meet our local guide and board a comfortable minibus for a morning tour of the picture-perfect, fairytale-like Trakai Castle, beautifully situated on Lake Galvė. We then return to Vilnius’ Old Town for lunch at a local restaurant, followed by a walking tour of the historic centre. Stroll along cobbled streets and visit key sites, including Cathedral Square, the Vilnius University buildings, the Gates of Dawn, and St. Anne’s Church, famously admired by Napoleon. We also explore the self-proclaimed “Republic of Užupis,” the city’s bohemian and artistic district. As dusk falls, we visit Vilnius’ festive Christmas market to enjoy the seasonal atmosphere. Overnight City Gate Hotel or similar. (BL)

Day 8: Vilnius to Riga (Latvia)

Today we rise early for the once-daily train to Riga, Latvia, departing at approximately 7:00am. Settling into your First-Class seat, you can order hot and cold drinks—including expertly made bean-to-cup lattes or cappuccinos—along with snacks and sandwiches, delivered straight to your seat from the train’s small catering compartment. Complimentary water, a chocolate brownie, and coffee are also included. Sit back, relax, and watch the Lithuanian and Latvian countryside unfold as we journey north. We are scheduled to arrive in Riga around 11:30am. A short 5–10-minute walk takes us to our hotel, where we can leave our luggage before heading into town for lunch at a traditional local restaurant.

After lunch, our guided walking tour introduces us to Riga’s enchanting Old Town. Wander its cobblestone streets, discover hidden corners, and admire iconic landmarks such as St. Peter’s Church, St. Jacob’s Church, St. Dom Cathedral, the Powder Tower, the Swedish Gate, and the Three Brothers. We also explore the city’s remarkable Art Nouveau district, home to some of Riga’s most striking and historically significant architecture.

As dusk falls, we visit Riga’s charming Christmas Market, a traditional and festive wonderland that feels delightfully old-fashioned and wonderfully uncrowded compared to other European markets. After the tour, the evening is yours to continue enjoying the market’s twinkling lights, explore more of the city, or relax at your leisure. Overnight Hotel Bergs or similar. (BL)

Day 9: Riga to Tallinn (Estonia)

Enjoy a leisurely breakfast, or for early risers, take an independent stroll to explore Riga’s bustling Central Market. Later, we board our final train of the journey from Riga to Tallinn (2nd Class), scheduled to depart around 11:15am. A simple cross-platform connection awaits at the border town of Valga. Sit back, relax, and enjoy a comfortable journey through the scenic countryside, arriving in Tallinn around 5:30pm. Upon arrival, it’s a short 5-minute walk to our hotel, and the remainder of the evening is at your leisure. Overnight Nunne Boutique Hotel or similar. (B)

Note: It is recommended to purchase a picnic lunch before departing Riga. The nearby Central Market is a convenient place to pick one up.

Day 10: Tallinn

After an early breakfast, we meet our local guide and board comfortable transport at 8:00am for our final full day, brimming with adventure and seasonal charm. We journey into the stunning Estonian countryside, passing through dense forests and stopping to admire a historic manor house and scenic waterfalls. Take a deep breath of the crisp Baltic air as we enjoy a couple of gentle walks, including a stroll along the boardwalk at Viru Bog, a serene and ecologically significant wetland.

By mid-afternoon, we return to Tallinn for an enchanting walking tour of the city. Wander the medieval upper town of Toompea, with its imposing castle, the striking Dome Cathedral, and the golden domes of Aleksander Nevsky Orthodox Church. Descend into the lower town to discover Town Hall Square, the iconic Blackheads’ House, Fat Margaret Tower, and the Viru Gates, soaking up the city’s rich history and festive atmosphere.

As twilight descends, we immerse ourselves in the magic of Tallinn’s traditional Christmas Market in Town Hall Square, where twinkling lights, artisanal stalls, and the scent of mulled wine create a truly enchanting experience. The day concludes with a farewell dinner at a local restaurant, sharing stories and memories from our journey through the Baltics—a perfect festive celebration before Christmas itself. Overnight Nunne Boutique Hotel or similar. (BD)

Day 11: Departure

The hotel will organise a transfer for your departure. You may wish to extend your stay in atmospheric Tallinn, or perhaps take the ferry across to Helsinki to finish your trip. We can assist with additional arrangements. Breakfast is included on your final day (B)

Download the Information Pack

To download the tour full dossier, which includes a complete day-by-day itinerary breakdown and detailed tour information, fill in the details below.

Dates and Prices


Tour Code Start End Trip Status Pricing Per person
LTT/291126 Nov 29, 2026

Sunday

Dec 09, 2026

Wednesday

Guaranteed £3,795.00


Single Room Supplement: £495.00
LTT/281127 Nov 28, 2027

Sunday

Dec 08, 2027

Wednesday

Guaranteed £3,795.00


Single Room Supplement: £495.00

Feedback from our Travellers

Essential Info

Foreign Office Travel Warnings

Before booking your tour, please familiarise yourself with the country specific information provided by the UK’s Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO) – www.gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice. This includes important information such as latest immigration requirements, and details of any travel advisories.

We constantly monitor the advice posted by the FCDO. In particular we will always advise clients of any travel warnings. At the time of writing the there are no warnings for travel to any of the countries visited on this tour.

It should be noted that this information applies to British citizens. Other nationals are asked to check the current position of their respective government.

Visa Information

UK, US, and Australian passport holders do not need a visa for travel in EU states.

As immigration requirements can change without notice it is essential that you check the latest information with your nearest embassy, consulate, or visa agency. It is important to check the requirements both at the time of booking and again at the time you pay your balance.t the time of writing British, US and Australian nationals do not require a visa for a tourist visit to Romania. For further details please visit the applicable website shown below.

Passports

It is your responsibility to ensure that you are in possession of a full passport, valid for at least six months after the date of return to your country.

We strongly advise that your passport contains a minimum of two blank pages, as this may be a requirement of the local immigration authorities. In addition, certain countries will stipulate that the two blank pages are opposite each other. If you are unable to meet these requirements, you may be refused boarding by your airline or denied entry by the immigration authorities.

For specific information about the requirements for your destination please check with the country’s embassy or consulate. Alternatively, UK citizens can visit www.gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice.

Vaccinations & Protection

As with travel to most parts of Europe, we strongly recommend that you contact your doctor’s surgery or a specialist travel clinic for up-to-date information, advice, and the necessary vaccinations.

The legal status and regulation of some medicines prescribed or purchased in your home country can be different in other countries. If you’re travelling with prescription or over-the-counter medicine, read this guidance from NaTHNaC on best practice when travelling with medicines. For further information on the legal status of a specific medicine, you will need to contact the embassy, high commission or consulate of the country or territory you’re travelling to.

Travel Insurance

It is a condition of booking with Undiscovered Destinations that you have adequate valid travel insurance. It is your responsibility to arrange appropriate travel insurance and ensure you have read and understood the full terms and conditions of your travel insurance policy to ensure that you are covered for all activities you intend to undertake whilst on the tour, including all optional activities. Your Insurance Policy must fully cover you for medical expenses (including cover for Covid-19 conditions) and emergency repatriation to your home country and be valid for the entire duration of your holiday.

Tour itinerary notes

The itinerary has been carefully planned based on the latest train schedules, but timings can change at short notice, or the days of the week that a particular train normally operates can also change. This will potentially require amending our itinerary and the number of nights that we stay in each city. Before you are asked to accept any changes our experienced travel consultants will of course discuss the options with you. These may well be limited, so it is important that you can be flexible.

Is this trip for you?

This journey will be best suited to experienced travellers and to those who are comfortable in carrying their own luggage unassisted. This is important as trains in Europe do not provide an airline style checked-in baggage service. Each passenger is responsible for their own luggage, which they will keep with them on each leg of the trip. On occasions this will mean storing luggage in the racks provided above the seats. Although the group, a maximum of 12 travellers, will be escorted throughout by a tour leader from Undiscovered Destinations, their role is primarily one of managing the logistics and liaising with the locally based guides who will be responsible for providing guided tours and excursions along the way.

In addition to the need to carry your own luggage on and off the trains, it should be noted that in most locations it will be necessary to walk from the railway station to our hotel and back. Where possible the hotels will be located just a short stroll from the station, but in some cities, it might be a longer walk of 20 minutes or so. Please see the itinerary below for further details and do get in touch before booking if you have any concerns.

Other tours you may like