CHRISTMAS MARKETS

About the destination: Hamburg, a city with centuries of trading history, is a bustling blend of Hanseatic commercialism and cosmopolitanism. A very attractive city, although severely damaged during WWII, much of the copper-roofed brick architecture so characteristic of northern Germany remains, while beautiful parks and lakes give rise to Hamburg’s claim that it is the Venice of the north. An active cultural life adds further vitality to this expansive port city. Hamburg’s old town is interspersed with wonderful canals running from the Alster to the Elbe. The richly decorated Rathaus dominates the city centre. Nearby is the equally impressive St. Michaeliskirche. Climb the massive spire of this beautiful baroque church for a splendid view. Near the Rathaus are the Börse, suitably grand for this city of commerce, and the devastated St Nikolai church. Its remains are considered an anti-war memorial. Shopping enthusiasts should head towards Pöseldrof, a charming district of upscale homes, small cafes, boutiques and antique shops. The night owls will have a great time in the notorious St. Pauli district. Hamburg will surprise visitors with its dynamic and cool atmosphere. In this city absolutely everyone can find a good place to suit their taste. Its numerous parks, canals, bridges and beautiful lakes formed by the river Alster, will make you forget its apparent austerity.

About the destination: Cologne, a centre for industry and transportation since ancient Roman times, has an extremely rich cultural tradition. During WWII 95% of the city was demolished, but the city miraculously recovered and many of its old churches and monuments have been meticulously restored. Cologne is now an attractive and lively centre of European art. It’s worth visiting this city, if only for the famous cathedral, though there’s much more to see. Situated on the Rhine River, the skyline of Cologne is dominated by the cathedral. This breathtaking cathedral, with its brilliant stained-glass windows, is justly famous as one of the world’s purest expressions of High-Gothic architecture. Cologne has one of the most extensive old town centres in the country, and the cathedral is its heart and soul. Across the square from the cathedral is the Römisch-Germanisches Museum, which displays artefacts from the original Roman colony. The Wallrof-Richartz museum and Museum Ludwig is a must for art enthusiasts. It is one of the country’s finest art galleries and makes brilliant use of natural light. A host of 12th and 13th century churches and several more of an ultra-modern post-war style also dot the streets of the old town. Cosmopolitan, open-minded, friendly are characteristics describing people from Cologne. Evenings and weekends in the city are like miniature carnivals, with bustling crowds and lots of things to do. Beer is the beverage of choice and there are lots of places to enjoy it.

About the destination: Welcome to Frankfurt, Germany – a dynamic city where tradition meets modernity, creating a unique blend that captivates every visitor. Known as the financial capital of Europe, Frankfurt is not just about skyscrapers and business hubs; it offers a rich tapestry of cultural, historical, and culinary experiences that are sure to make your visit unforgettable. Start your journey in the heart of the city at the Römerberg, Frankfurt's historic square. Here, you can admire the traditional half-timbered houses and the iconic Römer, which has served as the city hall for over 600 years. Nearby, St. Bartholomew's Cathedral, with its towering Gothic architecture, offers a glimpse into the city's medieval past and provides a stunning view from its observation deck. Don't miss the chance to stroll along the River Main, where you can enjoy picturesque views and perhaps take a relaxing boat tour. For art and history enthusiasts, the Museumsufer (Museum Embankment) is a must-visit. This cluster of museums along the riverbank includes the renowned Städel Museum, showcasing masterpieces from seven centuries of European art, and the German Film Museum, which delves into the fascinating world of cinema. The Senckenberg Natural History Museum, with its impressive dinosaur exhibits, is perfect for families and science lovers alike. No trip to Frankfurt would be complete without indulging in the local cuisine. Head to the vibrant district of Sachsenhausen, known for its traditional apple wine taverns. Here, you can savor hearty dishes such as Frankfurter sausages, green sauce (Grüne Soße), and Handkäse mit Musik (a regional cheese specialty). Pair your meal with a glass of Apfelwein (apple wine) for an authentic taste of Frankfurt. Whether you're a history buff, an art lover, or a foodie, Frankfurt promises a rich and diverse experience that will leave you eager to return.

About the destination: Ulm is a town at the edge to Bavaria in Baden-Württemberg, south west Germany. It is home to the highest church steeple in the world, 161.53m, even higher than the Dom of Cologne. Albert Einstein was born here. Around the city, there are many statues of sparrows, Spatzen. Spatzen is a nickname for the residents of Ulm and a symbol of the city. Legend says that, while building the cathedral, the workers couldn't figure out how to get the long wooden beams into the church until they noticed a sparrow entering its nest while holding a piece of straw lengthwise, instead of sideways. The most important sites to see in Ulm are: • Cathedral: Construction on the Ulmer Münster began in the 14th century. The top of the tower, which is the highest in the world and can be reached by climbing 768 steps, offers a magnificent view of Ulm and the region. On clear days, you can see the Alps. • Fischerviertel: the Fishermen's Quarter is a scenic old part of town with half-timbered houses, around the Blau River. It contains the crookedest hotel in the world. • Schwörmontag: a festival of the city that includes the Nabada, water parade on the Danube • The Christmas market in the square in front of the Münster. • The farmers’ market Wednesday and Saturday in front of the Münster. • The Rathaus (town hall) with its ancient colorful painted walls and the astronomical clock dating from 1520. • The library of Ulm, also known as "Glaspyramide" or glass pyramid due to its architecture. • Narrensprung, the annual parade at the start of the Carnival season.

About the destination: Munich, situated on the river Isar in the south of Bavaria, is renowned for its world-class museums, stunning parks, the annual Oktoberfest beer festival and architecture. The gorgeous public buildings and monuments are a testament to the imperial ambitions of the Wittelsbach family, who ruled Bavaria from the 12th to the 20th century. Despite being heavily damaged by allied bombing during World War II, many of its historic buildings have been rebuilt and the city centre looks mostly as it did in the late 1800s, including its largest church, the Frauenkirche, and the famous city hall (Neues Rathaus). A peculiar blend of proud traditionalism and cutting-edge culture will keep you engaged and active, and the town does stay awake until the wee hours, with its many students and down-to-earth Bavarian zest for life.

About the destination: Nuremberg is a city in the German state of Bavaria, in the administrative region of Middle Franconia; it is Bavaria's second largest city after Munich. It is situated on the Pegnitz River and the Main-Danube Canal. Gothic churches, splendid patricians' houses and romantic corners and spots. An atmosphere of lively co-existence between medieval and modern, between the past and the present, prevails in Nuremberg. The most important places to visit in Nuremberg are: • City walls and Kaiserburg Castle • Art Bunker • Old town and St. Lawrence and St. Sebald Church • Garden of the Hesperides • Toy Museum • Neunhof Manor • Medieval Dungeons • New Museum / State Museum of Arts and Design • DB -Museum Railway Museum

About the destination: Capital city of Germany, Berlin is one of the most exciting and historic places in Germany and in Europe. No other German city has more "visible" history to offer, despite all the scars of WW2 and the division during Cold War times. No other German city has such a rich cultural life. Berlin's architecture is quite varied. It is now possible to see representatives of many different historic periods in a short time within the city centre, from a few surviving medieval buildings near Alexanderplatz, to the ultra-modern glass and steel structures at Potsdamer Platz. Because of its tumultuous history, Berlin remains a city with many distinctive neighbourhoods. Berlin has so many faces. It is attractive, cosmopolitan, multicultural and multiethnic city with very friendly locals and lots to do and see.