European Christmas Markets

Available Options

Travel Tips

1. Accommodations

   At the time of booking, you will be asked what type of room you would like.

   A double room has either one large bed or two smaller ones. Double rooms are perfect for couples or if you're travelling with a companion and wish to share a room. There are plenty of double rooms available on our tours.

   A single or solo room has only one bed and may be smaller in size. These rooms are first come, first-served, as most properties have only a certain amount of these available.

   A triple room usually consists of a standard double room with two beds. A cot or fold-up bed may be added, but it depends on the room size and local fire codes. Triples are first come, first-served, as they are also very limited. If you booked a triple and only a double and single room is available at a hotel, appropriate charges for the single and double accommodations will be assessed.

   We will forward your request to the hotel and do our best to accommodate your needs; however, please know that we cannot make any guarantees.

   On every tour, we look to provide the highest quality accommodations in the best location. If you're visiting a city, we want you in the heart of it. In certain countries, the hotel rooms may not be as large as standard hotel rooms in North America.

   Here are a few details to keep in mind:

   Check-in times are set by individual hotels and can vary, but most hotels offer afternoon check-ins. Depending on your arrival time, you may have to wait before you can get into your room. Some hotels may be willing to store your luggage in a secure location until your room is ready. In these instances, the hotel will not be responsible for lost or stolen items and there may be a charge for this service.

   Please observe check out times at all properties. Hotels designate these as well.

   Some hotels require a credit card imprint or your passport information upon check in in order to activate telephones in the rooms and for potential incidental charges. Most hotels charge an access fee for using phones in hotel rooms. Please check with the front desk personnel at each hotel for specific policies. You will be responsible for all incidental fees occurred during your stay, and these must be paid at time of check out.

   Hotel membership programs are not applicable.

2. ADA

   The Americans with Disabilities Act does not apply outside of the United States.

   We will make reasonable efforts to accommodate the special needs of our guests. However, if you require individual assistance you must be accompanied by a companion who is capable of, and totally responsible for, providing the necessary assistance. Neither our personnel nor the personnel of our destination partners may physically lift or assist clients onto transportation vehicles at any time while on tour. We regret that we cannot provide individual assistance to a guest who has special mobility or other like needs.

3. Arrival Day Suggestions

   Due to varied flight schedules and arrival times of our tour guests, there aren't any scheduled activities prior to dinner on arrival day. Should your flight schedule allow for an early arrival, enjoy this opportunity for some independent exploration in Prague. Places of interest might be the National Gallery, Wallanstein Palace, New Town or Petrin Hill.

   If you are staying post tour, your Tour Manager will be available to offer suggestions for your additional time in the area.

4. Clothing & Packing Tips

   As you prepare to explore these beautiful European landscapes, enjoy a casual dress style and be sure to pack comfortable walking shoes.

   It is recommended to bring clothing that may be worn in layers and can be added or removed as the temperature changes.

   The locals in the countries on this tour enjoy a relaxed attitude toward dress codes in general. You can leave your suit and tie at home and instead, pack comfortable trousers and day shirts.

   These countries can experience unpredictable weather, so we recommend bringing an umbrella and light rain gear.

   When you're deciding what to bring on your trip, we have a few suggestions for you.

   In regards to clothing, think layers. It's much easier to maintain a level of comfort if you can add or remove a layer at a time, especially if you're travelling to a destination where the temperature can vary widely. So always, bring a light jacket or sweater. Fleece or wool is best. We recommend staying away from cotton sweaters or jackets as they won't keep you warm if they get wet.

   Comfortable footwear is crucial. Make sure you bring a pair of shoes that fit well and give you the necessary support. If you decide to purchase new shoes for your trip, we suggest you wear them a number of times before you leave to break them in. Your feet will thank you.

   Be prepared for all types of weather. For cool, rainy weather, pack a light raincoat, travel umbrella, waterproof shoes and a thin pair of gloves.

   For your toiletries, pack anything that could leak in plastic bags or a waterproof case. In addition, you might want to bring a washcloth or two. Not all hotels provide them.

   If you take prescription medication, make sure to bring enough for your entire tour plus a few additional days in the original prescription containers.

   Medication should be packed in your carry-on bag, never your checked luggage; this is in case your luggage is delayed. You don't want to be without your medication. You could also bring extra medication in a separate bag in case any gets lost.

   In general, we recommend not packing anything of value in your checked bag.

   You'll want to take pictures of everything, so make sure to bring a camera as well as extra memory cards and batteries for your entire trip. If you decide to bring a video camera, don't forget an extra battery for it plus a charger. Be sure to pack chargers and cords for all your electronic equipment.

   It's also a good idea to bring a travel alarm clock, a travel sewing kit, a portable scale to weigh luggage, and some hand sanitizer for when soap and water aren't readily available.

   If you are travelling with a companion, we suggest dividing the contents of your suitcase with them, that way if one bag is delayed, some of your belongings are still available to you both.

   If that is not an option for you, you could put a change of clothing in your carry-on if there's room. That will give you something to wear if your checked luggage is delayed as well.

   Last but certainly not least, leave room! You'll need it to fit all the souvenirs you want to bring home.

5. Currency

   The currency in the Czech Republic is the Czech Koruna, in Germany, Vienna and Bratislava the Euro, and in Hungary the Forint.

   Your personal bank card may work at local ATM machines in the destination you are traveling to and would dispense local currency. Please contact your bank to determine if this option is available, that your PIN number will be accepted, to inform them that you are traveling and to determine if any charges apply for each transaction.

   You may exchange your money at airports, banks, exchange bureaus, and at most hotels. In most cases, a commission charge will be assessed to exchange your money. At the hotel or in the city usually offer a better currency exchange rate than airports.

   We recommend carrying only a few major credit cards. Credit card purchases often provide an extra guarantee on your purchase (check with your specific credit card company for details and fees). It is advisable to contact any credit card company you intend utilizing while on tour before you depart to notify them where you will be traveling, to avoid any rejection of services.

   While it may be handy to have some small bills in US Dollars, for tipping, local merchants expect to be paid in their own currency or possibly in Euro.

   Local currency will be needed for lunches, gratuities and small items such as postcards and postage.

   If optional tours are made available to purchase, please note that credit cards must have an expiration date of greater than 30 days from the start of the tour.

6. Disclaimer

   If you plan to enter or leave the EU carrying the equivalent of €10,000 or more in cash, you must declare it at customs. Cash includes currency notes, coins, bankers' drafts, checks, and travelers' checks. If you do not declare the cash, customs authorities could take away your money, and you may receive a fine of as much as €8,000.

7. Documentation

   Collette has recently updated their on-tour protocols in keeping with new guidelines established by the CDC for vaccinated persons and those that have recovered from COVID-19.

   Please read the following information carefully.

   Although destination entry requirements may differ, if you are unvaccinated, you will not be able to join us on this tour. All guests are required to bring proof of vaccination (official vaccination certificate in paper) on tour.

   Destination-specific information may change frequently and without prior notice. It is very important that you frequently check the entry/exit requirements for destination(s) visited on this tour, to ensure that you are aware of any changes that may be applicable to your travel plans, including right up to your departure. Please refer to our Online Travel Requirements Resource page www.gocollette.com/en/landing-pages/2021/online-travel-requirements-resource for detailed information.

8. Electricity

   When traveling to another country, you may need an adaptor and/or electric converter to plug your electrical devices and appliances into the local power grid. An adaptor changes the plug so it fits into the outlet. A converter changes the voltage coming out of the outlet.

   To determine what you need, first verify if the plugs on your devices fit the outlet of your destination.

   In Europe, the plug type is C, which has two round pins. If your plugs do not match this description, you will need an adaptor.

   Next, verify the voltage of each device you intend to bring. You can find this information on the cord, plug, or on the device itself. Many devices are dual-voltage. For those, you do not need a converter. If your device is not dual-voltage and it differs from the voltage of your destination, you will need a voltage converter.

   In Europe, the voltage is 220v-230v. If necessary, make sure to get a converter that converts to this voltage.

   If you plan to bring a sleep apnea machine, please remember to bring an extension cord along with the adaptor and voltage converter.

9. Elevation

   The highest elevation encountered on this tour is 1300 feet.

10. Gratuities

    Tipping is a great way to show your appreciation for the people who help keep your tour running smoothly. But it can be confusing who to tip, when to tip, and how much. For baggage handling and waitstaff gratuities for included meals, the tips are handled by us. For hotel housekeeping staff, local sightseeing guides, transfer drivers, motor coach drivers, and Tour Managers, gratuities are not included in the price of your tour. Here are a few of our suggestions:

    Tour Manager: To express appreciation for your Tour Manager's delivery of excellent service, 5-8 US Dollars (or equivalent in local currency) per person for each travel day is customary. (When to tip: at the end of your tour.)

    Local Guide: For the insights, knowledge, and stories they share with you, 2-3 US Dollars (or equivalent in local currency) per person is recommended. (When to tip: at the end of your day or time with your guide.)

    Motor Coach Driver: To express your appreciation for a job well done, 3-5 US Dollars (or equivalent in local currency) per person for each travel day is customary. (When to tip: at the end of your tour or time with your driver.)

11. Helpful Hints

    As an added measure of confidence while traveling internationally, visit www.travel.state.gov. The U.S. State Department offers a "Smart Travelers Enrollment Program" (STEP), which you may individually choose to enroll in. This allows the U.S. to better assist with lost passports or in the event of any emergency abroad.

    Here is a list of entities we recommend you contact before you depart on your tour:

    1.) Your cell phone/mobile carrier if you are planning on using your device. You will want to confirm you will have access in the area(s) you will visit and inquire about any charges you may incur.

    2.) Your credit card company for any card(s) you plan to use. Make sure the card company knows when and where you will be traveling to avoid any charges being declined.

    3.) Your bank, so you can use your ATM/debit card worry-free. If you are travelling to another country, your bank will be able to tell you if your card will work at the ATM machines to dispense local currency, including if your PIN will be accepted. Also, indicate if you plan to use your debit card as a credit card if your card has that option. Your bank will advise you of any charges for each transaction as well.

    Leave a copy of your itinerary, hotel list (included in your tour documents bundle) and a contact number with a designated person in case an emergency comes up while you're away and someone needs to reach you.

    We recommend you leave a copy of your passport at home in a secure location and bring an additional copy with you as a precaution.

    During your flight, make sure to stand up and walk around as much as possible, and drink plenty of water. These simple suggestions will help you stay comfortable, particularly during long flights.

12. Included Features

    Thank you for choosing to travel with us and allowing us to guide you along this adventure! From the moment you step out your door, we strive to provide a comprehensive, stress-free, and unforgettable travel experience. To that end, the following features are included with your tour: motor coach transportation, accommodations, hotel luggage handling* (porterage), select meals, admission to attractions as outlined in your itinerary, and gratuities for bellmen, door attendants and wait staff.

    At the beginning of your tour, your Tour Manager will distribute a personal radio and headset. You should wear them on sightseeing tours to make sure you can hear your guides clearly at all times. Please bring them with you every day. Your Tour Manager will collect them at the very end of your tour, typically on your last evening. You are responsible for returning these devices and will be assessed a replacement fee should you fail to do so.

13. Local Cuisine

    Traditional Czech food pairs perfectly with flavorful Czech beer. Pilsner-style beer originates from a town called Plzen in Western Bohemia and was introduced in 1842. The Czech diet consists of pork or beef with sauce, served most commonly with dumplings. Dumplings are a traditional Czech side dish. Other dishes to try are rice, potatoes, chicken, duck, turkey, fish, rabbit and lamb. Be sure to try fried cheese!

    In Germany, the cuisine consists of very comforting, hearty dishes. As you may know, Germany is known for their variety of sausages and breads. Whether it is a light starter soup or a heavy stew for a main course, Germans never pass up a nice bowl of soup. Another traditional German favorite is "Pfannkuchen" a bread made from sweet yeast dough, fried and filled with marmalade or jam, then topped with icing, powdered sugar or conventional sugar — you simply cannot leave Germany without trying it! Germany is also known for its vast array of ales, beers and wines.

    Viennese cuisine is best known for their pastries and dishes that heavily depend on meat, such as veal and beef. Desserts that are a must try are strudel pastries with apple filling, a milk-cream strudel, pancakes with fruit compotes and cakes. Sauerkraut and dumplings are commonly served as well.

    Bratislava has one iconic dish: the Bratislavsky rozok, a crescent-shaped pastry filled with poppyseeds or nuts. Pair your foods with Bratislava wines.

    Typical Hungarian cuisine always consists of a variety of meats and cheeses. Traditional Hungarian dishes pair meats with seasonal vegetables and seasonings. You'll find that Hungary has delicious desserts similar to those found in the Czech Republic, Vienna and Bratislava.

14. Local Guides

    In order to enhance your experience on tour, four local guides will accompany the group in specific locations. These guides come from the region and have a deep understanding of the people and culture. They are joining the tour to share their knowledge with you. Please refer to your Tour Manager for the cities these guides will join your tour and refer to the gratuities section for tipping recommendations.

15. Luggage

    Guests flying to the United States from all international destinations will require extra screening when carrying powdered products weighing 12 oz./ 350 ml or more in carry-on luggage for security reasons. This added security measure will apply to all powders, with the exception of baby formula and medications. For your convenience, please consider packing any non-essential powders in your checked bag. Items that cannot be verified by a TSA officer risk being confiscated. Please visit www.tsa.gov for more information.

    Remember the 3-1-1 rule: Each airline passenger is allowed to bring 1 quart-sized bag containing no more than 3 ounces of any liquids, gels, and aerosols in their carry-on bag. Any liquids, including water bottles, that don't fit in the one quart-sized bag or are larger than 3 ounces will be discarded by security. Common items that must comply with this rule include toothpaste, shampoo, conditioner, and lotion. For a complete list of what is allowed and not allowed to bring on a plane, visit www.tsa.gov.

    Your day of departure is almost here, and it's time to think about what to pack. We have a few guidelines to help you. But before you pack anything, you must check with your airline for any luggage fees or restrictions. These can vary widely depending on your carrier and destination.

    Let's begin. The first thing to consider is how many bags to bring. We recommend one large bag that will be checked on the plane and onto the touring bus and one carry-on bag. It's very important you keep this in mind. We have limited space on our buses, so limiting the bags ensures there's room for everyone's luggage.

    Your larger bag can't be more than 62 in/157 cm in length, height and width and cannot weigh more than 50lb/23kg. Your carry-on cannot be bigger than 17 x 12 x 10 inches (43 x 30 x 25 centimeters) so it will fit under the seat or in the overhead racks on the buses. Your carry-on should be a size that you can carry comfortably. You will use this bag to hold your personal items during sightseeing trips.

    Please note that if you bring more than one checked bag and one carry-on, we cannot guarantee there will be room for them on the bus. You'll need to store or ship any additional luggage at your own expense. If there is room for your additional luggage, we will charge a fee of 4 USD per bag per hotel. It's also very important that all your bags be labeled clearly. In your packet you will find a plastic luggage tag. Please attach it to the bag you plan to check.

    There is also a paper luggage tag. This tag must be attached to your checked bag once you arrive at the first hotel. The name on this tag should match the information on your reservation exactly, so the Tour Manager and all baggage handlers can properly identify the bag as yours. This will ensure the bag is delivered to you quickly and efficiently.

    Finally, we recommend you purchase travel insurance to ensure peace of mind while you're on tour. We cannot assume liability or accept claims for loss or damage to luggage and personal effects due to breakage, theft or normal wear and tear that results from hotel, airline and group carrier handling. But we offer comprehensive "No Worries Travel Protection" for your convenience. With insurance, you'll be able to focus on creating wonderful memories, not worrying about your luggage.

16. Meals

    The food people eat is a window into their history, traditions, and values, and sharing food brings people together. One of the many wonderful aspects of travel is to experience as much of the regional cuisine as possible. Your tour includes many meals as outlined on your itinerary. Our team has carefully chosen restaurants that feature local ingredients and offer regional flavors.

    For meals that are not included in your itinerary, your Tour Manager will be happy to recommend eateries and local businesses that best fit your taste and needs.

    The average price for meals in this region ranges from 10 to 20 US Dollars for lunch and 27 to 37 US Dollars for dinner.

    The water is safe to drink. Be sure to drink plenty of water throughout each day of your tour to stay hydrated.

    Please let your Tour Manager know of any food allergies or dietary needs you may have at the beginning or your tour.

    A service charge is often included in the bill. If it is not, a standard tip is to round up the bill to the next whole amount. Hand the money directly to the server. We do not advise leaving tips on the table.

17. Name Badges

    Included in your tour documents bundle is your personalized name tag. We ask that you put this on before your first gathered event and wear it throughout your tour. This helps your fellow travelers get to know you and for your Tour Manager to better identify you in large groups.

18. Seat Belts

    In the European Union, the law states all passengers must wear a seat belt in all vehicles whenever one is available. Most of the motor coaches we use will have them, so if you see one, be sure to wear it. Failure to comply could result in a personal fine of up to Euro 750. Please be aware that we will not issue refunds to passengers fined for non-compliance. While on tour, your Tour Manager will remind you to buckle up.

19. Shopping

    One of the best parts of traveling is coming back home with souvenirs that reflect the place you've just been. As you explore some of Europe's most beautiful cities, you'll discover a plethora of products and specialties that make for great purchases!

    In Germany, there are many treasures to be found. All wood toys and carvings are staple souvenirs. Cuckoo clocks, beer steins, nut crackers, smokers, and Christmas ornaments, are also common items to purchase. Both Hamburg and Berlin are known for quality record shops. Another noteworthy gift or souvenir are German wines.

    In Austria you'll find crystal figurines, jewelry, traditional clothing, Mozart chocolates, as well as Hummel figurines, leather goods, designer wear, fashion accessories, and beer steins.

    In Hungary, folk art objects like Kalocsa embroideries or Sarkoz homespuns, porcelain, and lead crystal are prevalent.

    Keep an eye out in the Czech Republic for glass, china, folk ceramics, garnets, amber, footwear and lace. Small hand-made dolls made from corn husks, wooden carvings and smoke pipes are unique to the region, as well as plum liquor and honey schnapps.

    If you purchase DVDs or other electronic equipment abroad, please check that it is compatible with your PC or other home equipment.

    Bargaining in local markets does not typically take place, although it is not a bad idea to make a counter offer at the time of purchase. In general, the quality of everyday items and standard goods is as high or higher than what you will find in the United States.

20. Smoking Restrictions

    Our tours are non-smoking throughout. If you require a smoking room, please let your Client Care agent know when you book your tour. Please note we cannot guarantee your request as many hotels prohibit smoking in rooms and on property.

    Please be mindful of other locations where smoking is not allowed. These include the motor coach, at dining venues, and any other restricted areas on tour. Guests are responsible for any fines they incur for failing to comply with smoking regulations.

21. Time Zone

    All countries on this tour are 6 hours ahead of Eastern Standard Time and Eastern Daylight Time.

22. Tour Manager

    Peace of mind for our guests is our number one priority. When you're on tour with us, your only thoughts should be to immerse yourself in creating lifelong memories. Your Tour Manager is a destination expert on the people, places, history, and culture and ensures that you will have the best experience with us. Please utilize your Tour Manager's expertise for any concerns or questions you may have while on tour.

23. Tour Package - Air & Land Incl

    If you have chosen our air-inclusive tour package, you have opted that we take care of all your air travels from your home to the destination and back. This also includes any inter-flights from city to city within the tour package if applicable. We ask that you keep the following in mind:

    1) In order to comply with Homeland Security's "Secure Flight" mandate, you must provide full name (including middle name or middle initial, if applicable), as it appears on your valid, non-expired, government issued photo ID that you will show at the airport. The name on your airline ticket must be an exact match to this ID, or you may be prevented from boarding the aircraft.

    2) If you are a member of a participating frequent flyer program, make sure to provide the number when you book your trip and retain the copy of your ticket and boarding pass so you will receive proper credit for your mileage. Please note that some air tickets are not eligible for mileage accrual.

    3) Whenever possible, we will add charges for air departure taxes to your invoice. Some international arrival and departure fees are not included in your air ticket and must be paid by you during the tour in the local currency.

24. Tour Package - Land Only

    If you chose to purchase a land-only tour package, you have opted to purchase your own airline tickets to and from home and, if applicable to your tour package, flights from city to city (inter-flights). In this case, we ask that you keep a few important factors in mind when booking your round-trip flights:

    1) Please make sure your round-trip flights work with your tour itinerary. There may be scheduled activities on these days.

    2) You must provide us with your flight schedules for the entire tour upon final payment. This ensures that we can arrange any other services you may have purchased from us, including hotel transfers, and that your Tour Manager will know when to expect your arrival. This also allows us to maintain contact with you in case of an emergency.

25. Transfers

    We offer full-service transfers from start to finish. So when you arrive at the airport of your destination, arrangements will have been made to transfer you to your first hotel on the tour.

    If you purchased our air-inclusive tour package, you will enjoy this service free of charge.

    If you purchased your air ticket on your own (our land-only tour package), you may purchase a round-trip transfer for a fee.

    Meeting locations and times will be set up to accommodate your transfer arrival and departure schedules, which will be provided to you in your documents packet. If you decide to arrange your own transportation to the hotel, please make sure to check in with your Tour Manager once you arrive.

26. Transportation

    Your comfort is important to us. With that in mind, we charter coaches that are temperature controlled and have toilet facilities on board. However, in certain countries, coaches with toilet facilities may not be available or they are for emergency use only. If this is the case, please be assured that frequent stops will be made along the touring route for your comfort and convenience.

    Change your seat, change your view! At least once a day, the Tour Manager will ask all guests to change seats. This ensures that every guest has an opportunity to enjoy a variety of views as they travel and a chance to get to know each other better. In fairness to all, there will be no exceptions to this policy.