collette christmas market tours

European Christmas Markets featuring Prague, Vienna & Budapest - 2024

• Learn the secrets of Viennese confectionary during a candy making demonstration.
• Dine at the famous Marchfelderhof, an iconic restaurant with a rich Viennese tradition.
• Tour the majestic Prague Castle.
• Visit 5 different countries filled with the holiday spirit.
• Visit the magnificent Schönbrunn Palace, a summer retreat of the Habsburg dynasty.
• Discover Budapest’s iconic sights through the eyes of an expert.
• Experience the world’s oldest Christmas market in lovely Dresden, Germany.

What's this trip about?

Travel themes, destinations, attractions.

• Historic sightseeing

Set out on a grand holiday adventure through the winter wonderland of the Imperial Cities of Central Europe – Prague, Vienna and Budapest. Along the way, immerse yourself in festive Christmas markets, enjoy traditional entertainment, sample local cuisine, and glimpse this region’s rich history.

Arrive in Prague, the "City of 100 Spires." Behold ancient landmarks and medieval architecture. This evening, join your fellow travelers for a welcome dinner at a local restaurant.

Say goodbye to these regal cities as your tour comes to a close today.

Want a tailor-made trip instead?

Your trip, your way, planned by an expert:.

• You choose budget, destinations, activities, transport & lodging type
• Expert designs the itinerary for you, and once approved, takes care of logistics

Dates & Availability

Check Current Availability, prices, specials with Collette .

The total tour cost includes the tour price (regular or promotional) and the compulsory local payment. The promotional price is subject to change. Check directly with the operator for the latest price offer. The tour operator requires you to pay only the tour price to purchase your travel. The compulsory local payment will be paid when you join the trip. All prices are based on double, twin or triple share occupancy. Solo passengers will be accommodated in a double, twin or triple room according to availability with a passenger(s) of the same gender. Single supplement only needs to be paid if the passenger does not want to share and requests their own room. Discounts can only be applied at the time of booking and cannot be added at a later date, regardless of any changes made to the original booking.

Prices may vary due to local taxes and trip seasonality. Click "Request Info" to inquire directly with the tour operator for the final trip price.

Collette Reviews & Ratings

Other collette reviews, it was a wonderful trip and experience.

It was a wonderful trip and experience! We are still sorting all the pictures and memories about it, and some of them I would like to share with you - read my diary ...

we had an absolute wonderful time

My wife & I just returned from your National Parks tour and we had an absolute wonderful time. Great itinerary, tour director (Merrin) and driver (John). First c...

Worst and most poorly planned guided tour I have evr taken

Do not travel with Collette They area subpar company

This is worst tour I have ever taken. Poorly planned and not worth the money. Collette brought you to Lisbon where we sat for three days because NO TOURS or sited w...

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Tour Operator

True adventures go beyond incredible destinations or inclusive packages. Collette delivers a sense of possibility across all seven continents.

Since 1918, we have been sharing our love of travel. Today our worldwide travel collection features comprehensive land tours, river cruises, rail journeys, small group tours, family trips, garden holidays and more. With Collette, wake each morning on tour with a new experience in front of you, and when your head hits the pillow, you will know it has been an amazing day. Best of all - we seamlessly handle the details. All you have to do is enjoy the adventure.

Everyone at Collette believes travel is vital to a life well-lived and our executive team sets the tone. Drawing on a diverse set of skills that includes operations, sales, information technology, law and financial planning, they work across three offices to bring you the best experience possible.

There are so many benefits to letting someone else take on all the details that come with having The Perfect Trip. See why more and more travelers choose to Go Guided — and why they never go back.

5 Reasons to Go Guided:

Go Tour Managers!

On Day 1 of your trip, you’ll meet a friendly person who sure does know a lot about your tour and the destinations you’re visiting. This highly skilled professional is your tour manage and from the moment you meet this key player on your tour, you’ll know you’re in good hands. With their rich travel backgrounds, as well as their useful information about language, currency, and all things local, you can relax and enjoy the ride.

Go Culture!

Visiting a destination gives you a taste of the local culture. But imagine actually becoming part of that culture. Staying overnight in an Irish castle like Old-World royalty…feeling the cool waters of the Great Barrier Reef envelop you as you snorkel in its turquoise paradise…or rolling dough with an Italian chef to make the perfect pizza. It’s not just about all the iconic spots that will make for the best photos, it’s about diving into another world that makes for the best memories.

Go Product Team!

Our product experts are probably on the road right now — scoping out the best of our worldwide destinations. They go, take it all in, and find the moments they love best. Those are the moments they create for you. Those experiences and sights comprise each itinerary and make each one extra-special. Best of all, you don’t have to plan a thing. You just need to choose which itinerary best suits you.

Travel is social by nature. Guided travel is extra social. Meet a cast of characters: your fellow travelers, tour manager, driver, local guides and more. The social aspect of guided travel is one of the best parts! Many travelers on our tours have forged lasting friendships. Think of all the wonderful people waiting to meet you out in the world.

Go Worry-Free!

Your peace of mind is the most important thing to us. And that starts with our roundtrip home to airport sedan service. Forget taxis, airport fees, or public transportation. We will get you there...and back. And if for any reason you need to cancel your tour, you can do so — right up until the day before departure — and receive a full refund (thanks to our travel protection plan).

There are many ways to experience the world:

Among Collette’s worldwide collection of tours we offer a variety of guided travel choices. No matter where (or how) you want to go, Collette can take you there.

Small Groups, Big Experiences

From vibrant cities to remote villages, immerse yourself in other worlds. As part of a small group, enjoy accommodations chosen to capture the spirit of the destination, savor spectacular local cuisine, and take the time to explore on your own. Along the way Explorations sets the stage for the unexpected moments that make travel so special. With just 12-24 passengers, these are the personal adventures that today’s cultural explorers dream about.

Amazing Family Moments Included

Collette's Family tours bring travelers of all ages together to experience the world’s greatest destinations. There’s no better classroom than the world, no better education than taking a walk through history. Today’s parents — and grandparents — want to share the riches of travel with their children and grandchildren. Each tour in our family line is specially crafted with the best local experiences, iconic must-see's, family-oriented hotels and immersive cultural activities. Children ages 14 and under enjoy substantially discounted rates.

Collette's Cancel for Any Reason Travel Protection Plan

The Traveling Well Experience

Our commitment to your well-being and enjoyment.

There’s no denying that life and travel will likely look a little different for the foreseeable future, which is why we worked with our partners all over the world to create enhanced protective measures for our guests. These measures are intended to help safeguard guests’ health and well-being, while allowing for an enjoyable travel experience.  

From flexible booking to more open space on the coach and much more – all aspects of travel have been considered. This is  The Traveling Well Experience .

• Travel Protection Plan  – cancel for any reason up until 24 hours before departure, plus provides numerous on-tour protections
• More Physical Space  – on the coach, in restaurants, and more
• Wellness Protocols  – for partners like motor coach operators, hotels, restaurants, and airlines
• Enhanced Tour Manager Training  ­– our tour managers are destination experts and highly equipped to handle a variety of unexpected situations – including illnesses and emergencies

Before Your Tour

Cancel for Any Reason Waiver

Our Travel Protection Plan financially protects you in the event you need to cancel or move your trip to a different date. Learn more here

Pre-Tour Health Screenings

We will ask all travellers to complete a wellness declaration form before joining their tour.

Private Sedan Service

Your ride to and from the airport will be stocked with fresh water for every pickup and all surfaces will be disinfected daily and after every passenger.

Specific details will vary by airline, but standard operations typically include flight attendants wearing masks, sanitizing all surfaces between flights and physical distancing. For links to major airlines, head to the bottom of the page, or visit your airline’s website for specific information.

On Your Tour

Smaller Groups

Tours will operate with a number of empty seats to allow guests to space out for a more comfortable experience.

Your Tour Manager

We have employed new and enhanced hygiene & physical distancing protocols for tour managers. They are local experts and highly trained to handle a variety of unexpected situations — including illnesses and emergencies. They are also available 24/7 for guests throughout the tour should any situation arise.

Use of Face Coverings

Face coverings will be included with your pre-tour documents and will be required throughout many experiences on tour including the motor coach and air travel.

Motor Coach

All surfaces will be sanitized often, including regular cleaning of high-touch areas with disinfecting wipes. Hand sanitizer will be available at all times and drivers will wear protective gear when appropriate.

On-Tour Experiences

We work closely with our local partners to ensure adequate physical distancing during meals, experiences, and sightseeing. Guests may be rotated in smaller sub-groups when necessary.

On-Tour Insurance Coverages

When you purchase our Travel Protection Plan, you’ll have access to telehealth services should you need it, plus you’re covered on tour for emergency assistance, baggage loss, trip interruption, medical expenses, and more. Learn more here

Self-Screening

We will ask all travellers to monitor their health throughout their tour, with protocols in place in the event someone becomes ill.

Specific protocols will vary from destination to destination, hotel to hotel. Overall, rooms and areas like restaurants, fitness centres, etc. will be deep-cleaned regularly, with rooms disinfected thoroughly between guests. High-traffic areas like lobbies and elevators will be cleaned hourly.

After Your Tour

Post-Tour Survey

After you get home, you’ll be able to share your opinions of your tour experience, allowing us to constantly improve for the benefit of future guests.

Associations

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• The land price does not include air travel, airline fees, airport or departure taxes, transfers, visas, customary end-of-trip gratuities for your Tour Manager, driver, local guides, hotel housekeepers, cruise ship waitstaff, and any incidental charges.

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• Travel Type Travel Type * Christmas Market Tour
• Destination Destination
• Month Month Apr 2024 May 2024 Jun 2024 Jul 2024 Aug 2024 Sep 2024 Oct 2024 Nov 2024 Dec 2024 Jan 2025 Feb 2025 Mar 2025 Apr 2025 May 2025 Jun 2025 Jul 2025 Aug 2025 Sep 2025 Oct 2025 Nov 2025 Dec 2025 Jan 2026 Feb 2026 Mar 2026 Apr 2026
• Find your Journey

MOST POPULAR TOURS

Christmas Markets Along the Danube Eastbound

Code: Tauck-RNX2024 Operator: Tauck Tours

Magical Christmas Markets (8 Days, Holiday)

Code: CV-559-H-8 Operator: Collette Tours

4 Day Quebecs Christmas Market

Code: CA-4DYQBCM-PKG-24 Operator: Gate 1

Christmas Markets Along the Danube Westbound

Code: Tauck-RNY2024 Operator: Tauck Tours

Christmas Markets Along the Rhine Northbound

Code: Tauck-RCX2024 Operator: Tauck Tours

WHY CHOOSE US?

Variety of christmas markets tours options, incredible destinations, years of travel experience, christmas markets group packages, christmas market travel options, christmas market tours 2024 & 2025 discount 50%.

Christmas Market tours and the world-famous Christmas Market River Cruises will once again become available in 2024 and 2025. Every year, eager travelers reserve space on Europe Christmas Market Tours to experience the yuletide season at its best. Now you can on any of our 2024 and 2025 Christmas Market Tours.

Europe Christmas Market Tours remain an incredibly affordable way to travel, mostly due to the off-peak nature of the season. Christmas Market Tours and Christmas Market River Cruises take you through popular Central European destinations like Austria, France, and Germany. Dating back to the 15th century, Christmas Markets in Europe have provided locals and visitors with festive scenes, including Christmas light shows, concerts, hot apple cider, mulled wine, and beautifully decorated trees that rival the giant spruce at Rockefeller Center! Central Europe hosts many traditional markets, with various ways to experience them, such as Christmas Market Tours and Christmas Market River Cruises.

The Difference Between Christmas Market Tours and Cruises

The main difference between a dedicated Christmas Market Tour and a Christmas Market River Cruise is that you only have to unpack once on a cruise. Historically, rivers were the highways of Europe, with major city centers situated right along the banks. For example, beautiful Prague has hugged the Vltava River for over ten centuries, with the river area now home to over 1 million residents. Multi-city bus tours that feature Prague also normally visit Vienna and Budapest. While the overland distance between these cities is around 200 miles, tours usually include stops in charming towns like Bratislava to break up the longer drives. River cruises allow you to wake up to new destinations each day while enjoying views of castles and sites along the passing river banks. Both tour and cruise options may also offer activities like biking along trails near the floating vessels.

What Makes Christmas Market Tours So Special?

• During the four Sundays preceding Christmas (Advent), Christkindlmarkts fill the streets of many cities and villages bringing Christmas to life.
• Getting to see and experience a Christmas Market in Europe by itself is most definitely a bucket list item.
• Having the chance to purchase unusual holiday ornaments not easily found in the states is also a treat.
• Experiencing warm Gluhwein while wandering through Central Europe Christmas Market during a cold winter's night is a highlight.
• Iceskating in Rockefeller Center is a wonderful experience; however, iceskating in the middle of a five hundred year old Christmas Market is entirely something else.
• Discovering hot chimney cakes, Spatzle, and Lebkuchen can transform your experience into something amazing!

But where should you begin when trying to figure out the best Christmas Markets in Europe?

The Best Christmas Markets In Europe

That's easy! The best Christmas Markets in Europe are all of the above, because they're all wonderful! It all depends on if you prefer taking a Christmas Market Tour or Christmas Market River Cruise.

Latest From Our Blog

A Magical Guide to Europe's Enchanting Christmas Markets

How To Navigate Christmas Markets In Germany

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Christmas in London From $1,999 $1,899 pp*

*Rate is per person, land only, double occupancy, tour inclusions and available options may vary based on departure date. Please select a date below for more details.

• Exploration

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Your Tour at a Glance

Tour Activity Level

The activity level for this tour:

You’re a leisurely traveler. You typically take it easy and discover the energy of a new place by people-watching or soaking in the atmosphere at a local café. You can climb at least one flight of stairs, board a coach, and walk unassisted at a relaxed pace for up to 60 minutes without difficulty. You can easily handle altitudes up to 5,000 feet.

You like a balanced approach to travel. Walking two to three miles over the course of a day is no problem for you. You can partake in a two-hour leisurely walking tour, covering up to two miles (with included breaks). You can handle a variety of terrains, from cobblestone streets to moderate hills with relative ease and without assistance. You can climb two flights of stairs with ease. There may be 1 to 2 days on this tour when walking tours can cover 3 to 4 miles over uneven terrain. You can handle altitudes up to 6,000 feet.

You’re an on-the-go traveler. You don’t want to miss a thing, so walking and standing for longer periods of time (2-3 hours) isn’t a big deal. A moderately paced two-and-a-half-hour walking tour, covering several miles, hills, and uneven surfaces, is no problem for you. Walking four miles over the course of a day is very doable, as is climbing into and out of various modes of transportation (tuk-tuk, cable car, zodiac, etc.). You can climb three flights of stairs easily and handle altitudes between 6,000 and 9,000 feet. Expect some longer days balanced with free time to recharge or set out on your own adventure. This level is not a fit for travelers who require mobility assistance devices.

You’re ready to seize the day, whatever it may bring. You lead an active life at home (walking, biking, and half or full day hikes are things you may enjoy) and 10,000 steps a day is normal for you. You can handle longer walking tours (more than 3 hours covering 3+ miles at a steady clip) and activities that involve traversing uneven terrain, steep slopes, standing for periods of time, and varying altitudes and temperatures. You don’t mind being on the go with some early starts, late-nights, and full days. You can handle altitudes of 9,000 feet or higher with little to no issue. This level is not appropriate for travelers who use wheelchairs, walkers, and other mobility assistance devices.

Christmas in London

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Enhance your trip, optional excursions.

Add some more spice to your tour with this optional excursions.

Pre and Post Night Stays

Enjoy arriving early or checking out late with our Pre and Post night stays.

Tour Extensions

Extension style.

The extension style for this tour:

Independent

You’re accompanied by a Tour Manager throughout the extension, except for any time that’s set aside for independent discovery.

You’re accompanied by a Tour Manager part of the time, for some guided excursions. The rest of the time, you’re at leisure to explore the destination your own way.

You’re not accompanied by a Tour Manager during your extension stay. You’ll access locales you wish to visit on your own, and are free to create your own adventure.

Traveler Reviews

From $1,899 pp *

7 Days • 8 Meals

Thank you for sharing your review, we have passed along your feedback to our team.

Thank you for sharing your review on your trip to London, we have passed along your feedback to our team.

Thank you for sharing your experience with us. We have forwarded your feedback to our Traveler Relations team and a member of the team will reach out to you to discuss your specific issues and concerns. Your feedback is very important to us, we appreciate your patience as we work to resolve your issues.

Thank you for your review! We look forward to traveling with you again soon.

We are pleased to hear you had a great time on our Spotlight on London tour! Thank you so much for sharing your experience with us, we hope to see you again soon!

Fun and carefree touring

Thank you for traveling on our Discover Christmas in London tour. We're happy to hear you enjoyed the tour and the hotel. We are sorry that you were disappointed with the amount of bus time and the theater performance. Your comments will be reviewed by our Product Design Team so that the overall touring experience for our guests can be improved.

Thank you for traveling on our Discover Christmas in London tour. We're sorry to hear you were upset with the Christmas Markets and the time allotted at certain sites. Your comments will be reviewed by our Product Design Team so that the overall touring experience for our guests can be improved.

Thank you for traveling with Collette on our Discover Christmas in London tour. We're sorry to hear you were disappointed with the tour. A member of the Guest Relations Team will be reaching out to discuss your feedback.

I went to London. We had a wonderful tour guide and the I lovedit

My trip with collette was well organized..

Thank you for traveling with Collette on our Discover Christmas in London tour. We're sorry to hear you experienced issues on your trip. We have sent out a letter of apology and a future travel voucher as a customer service gesture.

Thank you for traveling with Collette on our Discover Christmas in London tour. We're happy to hear you enjoyed your tour guide. Your comments on the size of the vehicle for the outbound hometown pickup will be reviewed by our Logistics Team so that the overall touring experience for our guests can be improved.

Convenience, easy transport to & from the Airport .,

Thank you for traveling with Collette on our Christmas in London tour. We're sorry to hear you felt the tour was not as advertised. Please provide us with more information so we can research your concerns.

I would recommend this trip to anyone new to London.

See the best of london in a few short days, fabulous terrific wonderful not long enough., wonderful trip of a lifetime visiti london through collette vacations.

Thank you for traveling with Collette on our Spotlight on London tour. We're very sorry to hear about the issues you experienced while on tour. A member of the Guest Relations Team will be reaching out to discuss your feedback.

Liked the Tour of Ireland much better.

Well organized. just too short..

Thank you for traveling with Collette to London. Your feedback will be reviewed by the Product Design Team in order to improve the overall touring experience for our guests.

Very informative tour. Bring your walking shoes and umbrella!

A little of this, a little if that.

Thank you for traveling with Collette on our Spotlight on London tour. We're sorry to hear about the issues you experienced with your room at the hotel in London. Your feedback will be reviewed by the Product Design Team in order to improve the overall touring experience for our guests.

EXCELLENT TOURS!

Thank you for traveling with Collette to London. According to our notes, the up charge for the tickets was due to the fact that the option was purchased so close to departure day. This information was given to your travel agent.

we were very happy with our experience

Don’t expect to be picked up in a timely manner..

Thank you for traveling with Collette to London. A member of the Guest Relations Team will reach out to discuss your feedback.

Professional, flexible, informative, relaxed

Disappointing..

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London with Collette was fabulous!

Thank you for traveling with Collette to London. Your comments have been passed along to the Tour Management team to enhance this aspect of our tours for future guests.  

Fun times in London

Collette provides excellent customer service. The main office is always ava...

Great start, but want more depth.

Hello Richard, We have passed along your feedback to members of our product, tour manager and guest relations team.  Your insight is extremely important to us as we use it to improve and enhance our tours for future guests.   Thanks for bringing this to our attention.

So much history and so little time

Great tour!

Overall i enjoyed visiting london and luckily we had terrific weather..

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IDENTIFICATION Passports are required for this tour at your expense. Certain countries require that your passport be valid at least 6 months beyond the dates of your travel. You are strongly urged to contact the appropriate consulate for details. Visit www.travel.state.gov for the U.S. State Department for the latest details about passports and visa requirements.

IMPORTANT: We recommend that travelers take a photocopy of their passport and applicable visas. It should be packed separately from your actual passport and visa. We also recommend leaving a copy at home with your emergency contact.

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Christmas gift guide to Moscow surroundings

Visitors from America and Western Europe might be surprised to discover that Russia celebrates Christmas on January 7th. That’s because the Russian Orthodox Church follows the Julian calendar. After the end of the Soviet Union, some Russians have begun celebrating Christmas on December 25 in accordance with the Gregorian calendar. But many Russians still observe the tradition of fasting on January 6th, breaking the fast with a large feast on Christmas Eve after the first star has appeared in the sky.

During the Soviet era, Christmas and religious traditions were banned in Russia. Santa Claus was replaced by Ded Moroz, or, Grandfather Frost, an old man with a long white beard who would bring gifts to children on New Year’s instead of Christmas. According to Russian tradition, Ded Moroz is accompanied by his granddaughter, Snegurochka, the Snowmaiden, who helps him on his journey to give presents to children.

Although the tradition of having a Christmas tree, known as a yolka in Russian, was also banned during Soviet times, Russians got around this by having New Year’s trees from which they hung homemade decorations. Today, the restrictions of the Soviet Union have faded into history, and during the Christmas season visitors to Russia can even purchase Christmas ornaments in the shape of matryoshka dolls, or religious icons that depict nativity scenes.

Heading counterclockwise around the Golden Ring this holiday season, northeast of Moscow, your first stop will most likely be the city of Vladimir, home to some of Russia’s most striking churches and cathedrals. The Vladimir region is known for its fine crystal. Stop by the Crystal, Lacquer Miniatures, and Embroidery Museum ( 2 Bolshaya Moskovskaya ) for an overview of traditional crafts before visiting the gift shop in the museum to browse the crystal selection. Vladimir Chic ( 2 Dvoryanskaya ) also sells local glass and crystal work.

Typical souvenirs are also for sale in Vladimir’s old town, especially by the Golden Gate, a triumphal arch and defensive tower that is one of the last-remaining parts of the wall that once surrounded ancient Vladimir and a sure stop on any tour of the Golden Ring.

Just 63 kilometers from Vladimir lays the nearby city of Gus-Khrustalny , the ‘Crystal Goose,’ also home to a rich glass and crystal making tradition. You can visit the glassmaking factory in Gus-Khrustalny and buy gifts ranging from plates and vases to decanters, or visit the outlet store back in Moscow ( 4 Ilyinka ) just east of the Kremlin.

North of Vladimir, you’ll arrive in Suzdal, one of the Golden Ring route’s more tranquil towns. Suzdal boasts a number of small bazaars and stands outside the main tourist sites where visitors can purchase local honey mead, called medovukha, along with traditional crafts, like a pair valenki, or Russian woolen boots, which make an ideal Christmas gift for friends and family back home. The shopping stands outside Suzdal’s Museum of Wooden Architecture and Peasant Life ( Ul. Pushkarskaya ) are also highly recommended. Market Square ( Torgovaya Pl ) houses a number of shops where visitors can search for arts and crafts.

Following the Golden Ring north of Suzdal, many tours will stop in the city of Kostroma, a former trading outpost on the immense Volga River. One of the city’s highlights is the Museum of Linen and Birchbark ( 38 Tereshkova ), where visitors can view exhibits on traditional Russian crafts woven from flax and bark. A gift shop in the basement sells tablecloths, napkins, baskets, linen dolls, and traditional clothing typical of the region.

South from Kostroma, stop in the city of Rostov-Veliky for enamel jewelry, a craft which allows artists to produce small paintings on metal that are then fired to produce a thin glaze over the image. Rostov became famous for its tradition of enamel work. Today, visitors can purchase rings, earrings, bracelets, brooches, and jewelry boxes in the gift shop of the Rostov Enamel factory ( 3 Borisoglebskoye Highway ).

While you’re in Rostov, visit the House of Crafts ( 16 Vtoraya Tolstovskaya Naberezhnaya ) for local pottery and the Souvenirs shop ( 5 Ul. Kamennyi Most ) for ushanka hats—Russian fur caps with earflaps—paintings, and samovars for tea lovers.

The last two stops on a tour of the Golden Ring are the cities of Pereslavl-Zalesskiy and Sergiev Posad. Pereslavl is most famous for its embroidery work, available at the Art Salon ( 12 Ul. Sovetskaya ) along with souvenirs made of wood and stone. Nearby Sergiev Posad is considered the place where Russia’s matryoshka dolls were first invented, and was the chief production center of the dolls before Soviet times. Visit the city’s Toy Museum ( 123 Pr. Krasny Armii ) to get a better sense of the birthplace of one of Russia’s most recognizable toys, then head over to the market alongside the Trinity Monastery of St. Sergius—one of the city’s most important sites—to load up on matryoshka dolls, painted eggs, and icons before going home.

If you’ll be in the Golden Ring during New Years, the city of Vladimir hosts an impressive Christmas fair, with an iceskating rink and performances by local artists, in the main square ( Sobornaya Pl ). In most other Golden Ring cities you’ll find similar events in the center square as Christmas nears.

Most shops and markets in the Golden Ring are open year round. If you’re coming to Russia for a short period of time, whether in winter or summer, consider a trip to this stunning part of the country, and bring an extra bag if you plan to go shopping for Christmas gifts.

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Collette Unveils Slate of 10 New Tours for 2025

Travelers can look forward to exploring new destinations across four continents

April 04, 2024

Pawtucket, RI (April 4, 2024)  – Collette announces the launch of 10 brand-new tours coming in 2025. The new slate of tours will span across four continents with destinations in North America, South America, Europe, and Africa. These tours will also feature three of Collette’s five travel styles, Classic, Cruising, and small group Explorations.

The following tours will be available for booking, starting in 2025:

• Gems of Greece: Athens, Naxos, Crete (Explorations)
• Greece is a destination where crowds have been booming. Collette has designed a tour where travelers will experience two quieter islands: Crete and Naxos.
• Namibia & South Africa: Epic Landscapes & Wildlife featuring Etosha and Kruger National Parks & Cape Town (Explorations)
• Namibia’s vast desert scenery and rugged landscape make it a unique destination for any traveler looking to explore lesser known southwest Africa. Those who are hungry for adventure will love embarking on big game drives and visiting a shipwreck on the outskirts of the Skeleton Coast.
• Portugal’s Old World Charms featuring Douro Valley, Alentejo & Lisbon (Explorations)
• Portugal is a consistent hot spot for travel - beautiful beaches, hillside towns, food, wine, culture and more. That’s why Collette is adding a Portugal tour to the lineup for 2025 that visits three top destinations Douro Valley, Alentejo, and Lisbon.
• The Balkans: from Coastal Croatia to Legendary Greece (Explorations)
• Collette’s The Balkans: from Coastal Croatia to Legendary Greece Tour will span across 5 different Balkan countries, including Albania. Albania has seen a major rise in traveler interest over the past few years and Collette is excited to head there for the first time.
• Europe: The Grand Tour
• Visiting eight countries in 13 days, “Europe: The Grand Tour” is perfect for travelers who are looking to venture into Eastern European culture, history, and food.
• Essential South America featuring Chile, Mendoza Wine Region & Buenos Aires (Explorations)
• Mendoza is the heart of Argentina’s wine country and a travel destination. Many people don’t know it’s actually a desert region. Collette has designed a tour that visits Mendoza coming soon in 2025 - Essential South America featuring Chile, Mendoza Wine Region & Buenos Aires.
• Canadian Rockies and Alaska's Inside Passage featuring Rocky Mountaineer and a 7-night Alaska Cruise (Cruising)
• Collette is combining the breathtaking views of the Western Canadian Rockies with the beautiful landscapes of Alaska’s inside passage. This tour is perfect for travelers who love cruising and getting around via the railways.
• Sequoia & Kings Canyon National Parks featuring San Diego & California's Central Coast
• Collette is adding yet another National Park destination to its catalogue. Travelers can now explore Sequoia National Park with the “Sequoia & Kings Canyon National Parks” tour.
• Shades of The English Countryside featuring London, Cornwall, & Cotswolds
• Collette’s “Shades of The English Countryside” tour aims to give travelers a taste of some of England’s prettiest places to live. Travelers will head off of the beaten path to southern England and experience some of the British Countryside, quaint villages, and vibrant market towns.
• Utah's Mighty Five and The Rockies featuring 2 days onboard Rocky Mountaineer
• After an amazing train trip on Rocky Mountaineer from Denver to Moab, travelers will trek across the Southwest as they take in the sienna-colored canyons, towering spires, and desert landscapes found in Utah’s five national parks.

“We value our travelers’ feedback and used that to put together these exciting new experiences in 2025. Collette wants to show travelers more of what they’re looking to see,” said Jaclyn Leibl-Cote, chief executive officer at Collette. “We’re always looking for new ways for our travelers to explore the world. Not only do we do that, but we add variety in our travel styles. Building new Classic, Cruising, and Explorations tours helps keep things fresh for all travelers.”

About Collette:

As the longest-running tour operator in North America, Collette is the company travelers can trust. Leading with integrity, Collette’s comprehensive travel protection plan, flexible tour pacing, and strong relationships within the travel space set it apart. The happiness of its travelers has been its roadmap since 1918 and today Collette offers over 170 tours to all seven continents and five distinct travel styles, including small group touring and river cruises. This third-generation family-owned business is dedicated to giving back in both local and global communities through its social responsibility platform.  For more information, visit www.gocollette.com  or call 1(800) 340-5158.

Media Contact:

Sam LaFrance, Collette Phone: 401.426.4504 [email protected]

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Collette Unveils New Tours for 2025

Athens, Greece. Photo: Collette

Collette has revealed 10 new tours that will launch in 2025.  

The trips span four continents in popular destinations – such as Greece, Portugal, South Africa, and Chile – and are categorized in three of Collette's five trip styles: Classic, Cruising, and Explorations.  

“We value our travelers’ feedback and used that to put together these exciting new experiences in 2025. Collette wants to show travelers more of what they’re looking to see,” said Jaclyn Leibl-Cote, chief executive officer at Collette. “We’re always looking for new ways for our travelers to explore the world. Not only do we do that, but we add variety in our travel styles. Building new Classic, Cruising, and Explorations tours helps keep things fresh for all travelers.”     

Here are Collette's new itineraries starting next year:  

"Gems of Greece" in Athens, Naxos, Crete (Explorations): Crowds are booming in Greece; this tour brings travelers to the quieter islands of Crete and Naxos.  

"Namibia & South Africa: Epic Landscapes & Wildlife" featuring Etosha and Kruger National Parks & Cape Town (Explorations): Adventure-seekers will enjoy this journey of lesser-known southwest Africa with activities such as big game drives and visiting a shipwreck on the outskirts of the Skeleton Coast.  

"Portugal’s Old World Charms" featuring Douro Valley, Alentejo & Lisbon (Explorations):   With its beautiful beaches, hillside towns, and rich food, wine, and culture scene, Portugal is a consistent travel hotspot, and this tour features three of the country's top destinations.  

"The Balkans: from Coastal Croatia to Legendary Greece" (Explorations): This tour spans five different Balkan countries, including Albania, which is a first for Collette and has seen a major increase in tourism recently.  

"Europe: The Grand Tour": This tour visits eight countries in 13 days and is perfect for travelers seeking to immerse themselves in Eastern European culture, history, and food.  

"Essential South America" featuring Chile, Mendoza Wine Region & Buenos Aires (Explorations): This tour features a visit to the desert region of Mendoza, which is also the heart of Argentina's wine country and a hot tourist spot.  

"Canadian Rockies and Alaska's Inside Passage" featuring Rocky Mountaineer and a 7-night Alaska Cruise (Cruising): This journey combines the breathtaking views of the Western Canadian Rockies with the beautiful landscapes of Alaska's inside passage.  

"Sequoia & Kings Canyon National Parks" featuring San Diego & California's Central Coast: This is just the latest addition to Collette's portfolio of National Park tours.  

"Shades of The English Countryside" featuring London, Cornwall, & Cotswolds: Travelers will get a taste of some of England's prettiest places to live and travel off the beaten path to southern England to see the British countryside's quaint villages, and market towns.  

"Utah's Mighty Five and The Rockies" featuring 2 days onboard Rocky Mountaineer: After traveling via rail from Denver to Moab, travelers will take in the views of canyons, spires, and desert landscapes in Utah's five national parks.

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Electrostal History and Art Museum

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Electrostal History and Art Museum - All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go (2024)

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• Preplanned tours
• Daytrips out of Moscow
• Themed tours
• Customized tours
• St. Petersburg

Moscow Metro

The Moscow Metro Tour is included in most guided tours’ itineraries. Opened in 1935, under Stalin’s regime, the metro was not only meant to solve transport problems, but also was hailed as “a people’s palace”. Every station you will see during your Moscow metro tour looks like a palace room. There are bright paintings, mosaics, stained glass, bronze statues… Our Moscow metro tour includes the most impressive stations best architects and designers worked at - Ploshchad Revolutsii, Mayakovskaya, Komsomolskaya, Kievskaya, Novoslobodskaya and some others.

What is the kremlin in russia?

The guide will not only help you navigate the metro, but will also provide you with fascinating background tales for the images you see and a history of each station.

And there some stories to be told during the Moscow metro tour! The deepest station - Park Pobedy - is 84 metres under the ground with the world longest escalator of 140 meters. Parts of the so-called Metro-2, a secret strategic system of underground tunnels, was used for its construction.

During the Second World War the metro itself became a strategic asset: it was turned into the city's biggest bomb-shelter and one of the stations even became a library. 217 children were born here in 1941-1942! The metro is the most effective means of transport in the capital.

There are almost 200 stations 196 at the moment and trains run every 90 seconds! The guide of your Moscow metro tour can explain to you how to buy tickets and find your way if you plan to get around by yourself.