This intimate, small-group journey welcomes only 16 guests, creating a truly personalized experience.
Join us on a journey through the old world winter wonderlands, visiting some of Europe's most renowned Christmas Market towns! We'll be immersed in all the sights, sounds and deliciousness to be found experiencing centuries-old holiday traditions. Stroll the medieval streets of Prague, visiting whimsical market stalls decked out in holiday cheer. Sip mulled wine while twinkling lights bounce off snowcapped roofs of Salzburg. Experience an intimate concert in Mozart's home, surrounded by Vienna's romantic baroque backdrops. Shop local hand-crafted goods and traditional holiday trinkets. Enjoy dining in world class eateries and experiencing all the European Christmas magic to be found!
Join us on a journey through old world winter wonderlands, visiting some of Europe's most renowned Christmas Market towns! We'll be immersed in all the sights, sounds and deliciousness to be found experiencing centuries-old holiday traditions. Stroll the medieval streets of Prague, visiting whimsical market stalls decked out in holiday cheer. Sip mulled wine while twinkling lights bounce off the snowcapped roofs of Salzburg. Experience an intimate concert in Mozart's home, surrounded by Vienna's romantic baroque backdrops. Shop local hand-crafted goods and traditional holiday trinkets. Enjoy dining in world class eateries and experiencing all the European Christmas magic to be found!
Dear valued guest,
Thank you very much for choosing Keyrow Tours, a family company specializing in small group travel for over 20 years.
Our aim is to provide a unique and authentic experience, that exceeds personal hopes and expectations. We believe that we achieve that goal by focusing on immersive cultural experiences such as local food and wine tastings, hands-on cooking classes, guided tours of historical sites, and interactions with locals. Of course we will visit the main attractions on each of our trips, but we especially love to explore off-the-beaten-path places that truly capture the essence of each place.
Thank you again for choosing Keyrow Tours. We are delighted to host this extraordinary trip with you. Our time together will be recreational, educational, and experiential…with memories to last a lifetime. Please contact us with any questions, and know that we remain at your service. "Andiamo!" ("Let's Go!")
With kind regards,
Paolo C. Carman, Founder
Russian Pelmeni (Dumplings)
traditional dumplings, usually filled with beef and served with fried onions and sour cream
Grilled Sausages
delicious, served EVERYWHERE... and spelled the same in Czech as English.
Pražská šunka (Prague ham)
as popular as sausage BUT be aware that the price of this delicacy is usually charged by weight (per 100g.) You are charged in this way, so be specific in the amount you order or face the wrath of a common tourist #HamScam, where they give you way too much and charge you accordingly.
Svařák
a hot cup of spiced wine. In English, it’s mulled wine, in German, it’s Glühwein, and in Czech, it’s Svařák. And it's all tasty!
Palačinky
thin crepe-like pancakes served with different toppings like fruit and jam.
Lángos
Hungarian, but Czechs love them...deep fried slabs of dough slathered in wonderful toppings like cheese and garlic.
Bramboráky
potato Pancakes: deep fried patties made from grated potatoes, and a definite must!
Trdelník
a tasty treat of wood fired sweet dough that is BEST when filled with whipped cream, ice cream and/or fruit!
We encourage you to pack light and pack warm! It is winter, so snow is likely, and you will be wandering medieval streets and outdoor market stalls daily.
Only casual wear will be needed and we recommend dressing in layers. Most of our days will be spent bundled up in coats, so you'll be surprised how few outfits you'll really need to pack.
We also suggest bringing a swimming suit, as most of our hotels will have a European sauna to enjoy.
We also encourage you to pack light or bring a near empty suitcase, for packing your treasures. We suggest you also research baggage fees for your return flight airlines, in case you need to bring home an extra bag of goodies (we can help you find an extra suitcase during our travels).
Centrally located historic hotels (double room occupancy)
All ground and sea transportation
to museums and special events such as cooking classes and wine tastings
Daily
daily exquisite traditional main meals with local wine
with your personal Keyrow host
optional
Airfare is not included...
In conjunction with Uni-World/Jetaway Travel, Keyrow Tours is pleased to make all flight arrangements, including primary flights originating anywhere in the United States and international flights
Cody Long has been a business owner, chef, and provider of high-end travel concierge services for many years. She is drawn to epicurean traditions, regional flavors, interesting folklore, indigenous scenic beauty and communities gathered around a table. Cody resides in Scotland and has previously lived in Ireland, developing local friendships over a meal shared and a glass raised.
To learn more about Cody, visit: The Rucksack Foodie
You'll arrive at Vaclav Havel Airport Prague, where private transportation will take us to our hotel.
It's a 9 mile/30minute trip to our hotel.
We will be checking into a small boutique hotel situated near the heart of Prague 1 (city center) and in easy walking distance to all the Christmas magic!
We'll enjoy our first dinner in our hotel's highly recommended restaurant. This will allow us to relax together after a long day of travel.
Keyrow Tours coordinates the ambiance and the magic of travel. However, YOU are the travelers soaking in the experience. You become the experts!
Each evening, a few guests will be asked to present a brief reflection: there is no right or wrong with your reflection.
This could be something simple like sharing what your favorite observation was from earlier in the day. Previous Keyrow travelers have read passages from books, shared prior travel memories, created custom poems, and offered personal thoughts on their life's journey…the possibilities are endless!
The Christmas season is the most important holiday in the Czech calendar. Historically local fishmongers would bring barrels full of carp for the traditional Christmas Eve celebration.
Christmas markets have been a tradition since the 18th century.
Prague's major markets are located around Wenceslas Square and Old Town Square. Great shopping can be found at smaller markets including Havelske Triste, Namesti Miru & Namesti Republiky.
Czech markets are known for hand carved toys, bobbin lace, ceramic & glass figurines. Expect to find delicious traditional foods such as gingerbread cakes, bbq sausages, hot punch and mulled wine. Numerous local and international choirs sing carols for the crowd!
7:00 am - 9:30 am in hotel
We'll meet our local guide who will lead us through some of Prague's historic streets on the way to the Old Town Market (1.2 mile walk).
We will cross one of Europe's most beautiful and iconic bridges, the 14th century Saint Charles Bridge. Our destination, the Old Town Square, has been a significant trading market since the 10th century. Here we will take in the sights and sounds as we prepare to explore the fabulous Christmas Market!
SHOPPING TIP: The Old Town Market can be more expensive than smaller markets, BUT the location and back drop is one of the most gorgeous in all of Europe!
You are standing in the middle of one of the most beautiful historic squares in Europe, a UNESCO world heritage site.
Tour St. Nicholas Church, one of the city's most beautiful Baroque churches. This grand structure in the Old Town Square dates back to 1735 and replaced an earlier church that was first recorded in the 13th century.
Celetná street, connecting the square with the Powder Gate, is a street with beautiful and contrasting architectural styles: Baroque, Classical, Romanesque and Gothic.
We'll be taking a short 1 mile ride on the historic tram to the beloved Christmas Market of Náměstí Míru.
Escape the crowds at this lovely and quaint Christmas market, where we are likely to be surrounded by more locals than tourists. You’ll find a beautiful tree in the center, with a canopy of twinkling lights suspended above dozens of stalls selling stuffed toys, ornate cookies, spices and other gifts.
The markets have endless array of traditional foods & drinks. Many will have tables and a warm fire to gather around.
The best known market for food in Prague is the Tylovo Náměstí Christmas Market, just a short 5 minute walk down Jugoslávská street. This is THE market to head to if you’re starting to feel hungry, with plenty of international options ranging from Russian Pelmeny and Vareniky to crispy Chinese dumplings.
We will depart for dinner at a medieval pub dating back to the 14th century and experience a gourmet journey to the Middle Ages. Enjoy all the revelry and characters you would expect to find in 14th century Prague!
Keyrow Tours coordinates the ambiance and the magic of travel. However, YOU are the travelers soaking in the experience. You become the experts!
Each evening, a few guests will be asked to present a brief reflection: there is no right or wrong with your reflection.
This could be something simple like sharing what your favorite observation was from earlier in the day. Previous Keyrow travelers have read passages from books, shared prior travel memories, created custom poems, and offered personal thoughts on their life's journey…the possibilities are endless!
7:00 am to 9:00 am in hotel
This is a full day, so wear comfortable, supportive walking shoes. Bring a small back pack for easy goody-carrying!
We will travel by private mini vans to the historic city center of Cesky Krulov. Travel time is approximately 45 minutes.
Cesky Krumlov is a hidden gem in the Bohemian hills. This beautiful town escaped the bombings in World War II, and much of the architectural beauty is still preserved. This UNESCO World Heritage site is a must-see when in the Czech Republic.
We will enjoy a guided morning tour around the narrow ancient streets of Old Town, with a visit to the Castle.
Savour a relaxed lunch of traditional Bohemian and local Czech fare before hitting the Christmas Market and enjoying the evening's festivities!
This quaint market caters to the local population. Enjoy locally crafted items, a live nativity, and numerous carolers.
Keyrow Tours coordinates the ambiance and the magic of travel. However, YOU are the travelers soaking in the experience. You become the experts!
Each evening, a few guests will be asked to present a brief reflection: there is no right or wrong with your reflection.
This could be something simple like sharing what your favorite observation was from earlier in the day. Previous Keyrow travelers have read passages from books, shared prior travel memories, created custom poems, and offered personal thoughts on their life's journey…the possibilities are endless!
Cody is happy to provide ideas for additional evening activities, with details on taxis or uber options.
Visit a Beer Hall: traditional beer halls are special in Prague
Jazz Night: Prague has a great Jazz club scene!
7:00 am -9:30 am
We'll be touring one of the oldest intact religious settlements in all of Europe dating back to the 10th century. Prague's Jewish Quarter has survived multiple wars and tribulations; these narrow streets still hold a vast historic richness.
Staronová Synagoga is one of the oldest synagogues in Europe. Rabbi Loew, who created the Golem (a mythical clay figure which protected Prague’s Jewish population from persecution) preached here. This has been an important religious and cultural center for Czech Jews for centuries.
Prague Castle lies on a hill overlooking the city. Its history goes back to the 11th century, and it is believed to be Europe’s largest castle. The Gothic St. Vitus Cathedral, which took more than 600 years to build, is most impressive.
The Old Town is bustling with Christmas market shoppers. Enjoy a guided walk and take in the magnificent buildings that have graced this square for centuries.
This clock has been ticking since 1490 on City Hall. Every hour between 9:00 am and 11:00 pm, visitors can see the Apostles appear from the clock. Mystical zodiac signs decorate the clock face.
Explore the fascinating Museum of Communism, an account of the post–World War II Communist regime in Czechoslovakia. The Museum of Communism offers an immersive look at life behind the Iron Curtain.
We'll enjoy a proper beer hall dinner in a 300 year old establishment that has hosted countless notable politicians and celebrities. This traditional no-frills place still serves the most delicious traditional dishes and fabulous beer.
Keyrow Tours coordinates the ambiance and the magic of travel. However, YOU are the travelers soaking in the experience. You become the experts!
Each evening, a few guests will be asked to present a brief reflection: there is no right or wrong with your reflection.
This could be something simple like sharing what your favorite observation was from earlier in the day. Previous Keyrow travelers have read passages from books, shared prior travel memories, created custom poems, and offered personal thoughts on their life's journey…the possibilities are endless!
There will be coffee, tea and treats available on the train as well.
We will depart promptly at 7:30 in our private vans to the train station.
Our train will have a full dining car with hot meals (and beer on tap!) We will be sitting in business class, so an attendant will take your order.
Vienna is located on the Danube River, near the north-eastern extension of the Alps.
The city is world-famous for its magnificent imperial heritage, with the Schönbrunn Palace, the Belvedere and the Imperial Palace. The city is also appreciated around the world for its top-notch music and cultural offerings, with many renowned concert halls, museums and institutions — from the large Musikverein Hall to the prestigious Museum of Fine Arts and the Vienna State Opera.
We'll be staying in Spittleberg, an area nicknamed the ‘"village in the city". It is home to historic buildings, idyllic squares, and classy restaurants. Nestled on a quiet side street, our hotel is one of the best hotels in Vienna for access to the Christmas Markets and other attractions.
We will dine at Café Bellaria (a 5 minute walk) that offers delicious Austrian dishes, coffee drinks and pastries.
We will enjoy an intimate evening of music from the Viennese Classical Era (Mozart, Haydn, Schubert, Beethoven etc. ) in the oldest concert hall in Vienna, where Mozart played.
Keyrow Tours coordinates the ambiance and the magic of travel. However, YOU are the travelers soaking in the experience. You become the experts!
Each evening, a few guests will be asked to present a brief reflection: there is no right or wrong with your reflection.
This could be something simple like sharing what your favorite observation was from earlier in the day. Previous Keyrow travelers have read passages from books, shared prior travel memories, created custom poems, and offered personal thoughts on their life's journey…the possibilities are endless!
7:00 am - 9:00 pm
You'll have the full day to explore many of Vienna's world famous Christmas Markets!
Venture out to explore on your own, or join Cody as she makes her rounds to these beautiful venues, shopping and nibbling along the way!
The Christmas market at Spittelberg is a short walk from our hotel. An intimate experience, this cozy market has a unique feel in contrast to the larger Christmas markets in the city. Find locals catching up over steaming mugs of mulled wine and feasting on a wide range of local delicacies and international foods.
The Spittelberg Christmas market winds its way through narrow streets, as in medieval days.
Sandwiched between the gorgeous natural history and art museums, this market has a wonderful ambience.
In the shadow of the beautifully lit Rathaus (city hall), the Christkindlmarkt am Rathausplatz is the largest of Vienna's Christmas markets, attracting some 3 million visitors a year.
1 mile walk to hotel
The Altwiener Christkindlmarkt sits on the Freyung square in the shadow of the Schottenkirche (church) and various palaces. This market focuses on arts, crafts and traditional food: look out for the amazing Bergkäse cheese.
Just a stone's throw from Altwiener market is Am Hof Advent Market. This is one of the oldest and most authentic Christmas markets in Vienna, dating back to the 18th century.
Stephansplatz is the square surrounding Stephansdom (St. Stephen’s), the huge cathedral that dominates the pedestrianised area at Vienna’s heart.
The market harks back to medieval times, with its wooden stands clinging to the sides of the cathedral.
1.9 miles from hotel
OR
Take the Underground Subway, Stephansplatz stop, to the Volkstheater stop, 290 meter stop to our hotel.
Discover Roman ruins, Habsburg architecture, a former residence of Haydn, sausages, and snow globes all at one location!
The official title for the market is the k.u.k. Weihnachtsmarkt. The abbreviation k.u.k. stands for kaiserlich und königlich (English: imperial and royal). In the past, suppliers to the court would use the k.u.k. designation to indicate an official stamp of approval.
Today, k.u.k. works as a form of branding to hint at a touch of elegance. The white booths of this small market are near the Hofburg, Vienna's Imperial Palace.
Fiacres (horse-drawn carriages) often park at the edge of the square, adding a regal flair.
NEARBY SITES:
The palace buildings, specifically the great domed entrance, mark one side of the open area. The other sides feature historical treasures such as:
1.3 mile walk to the hotel
It's a short walk around the block to our dinner location...
Tonight we eat in the Spittelberg neighborhood's oldest restaurant!
Notes from our Restaurant:
The atmosphere in our main dining area can be described as typically Viennese, with comfortably cushioned wooden chairs and benches, small intimate tables and lush decorated walls. Life is reduced to the simple joy of delicious food like a juicy Schweinsbraten (pork roast) or the famous Wiener Schnitzel (Viennese escalope), served with a glass of good wine from the Wachau region. You can experience our affection for detail in our various snuggeries.
Keyrow Tours coordinates the ambiance and the magic of travel. However, YOU are the travelers soaking in the experience. You become the experts!
Each evening, a few guests will be asked to present a brief reflection: there is no right or wrong with your reflection.
This could be something simple like sharing what your favorite observation was from earlier in the day. Previous Keyrow travelers have read passages from books, shared prior travel memories, created custom poems, and offered personal thoughts on their life's journey…the possibilities are endless!
We have a special treat in store, a more 'traditional way' to explore the streets of lovely Vienna! Bundle up because we will be outdoors.
We will end our morning tour with a walk through one of Europe's iconic cathedrals. The religious and geographical centre of Vienna is St. Stephen's Cathedral. The most prominent Gothic masterpiece of the city, with its stunning tiled roof and stone interiors, actually retains many artworks from different periods: the Romanic towers, the Baroque altar and the Renaissance decorations. Often considered the symbol of Vienna, it is a magnificent structure.
We will have a guided tour of the cathedral and the catacombs.
Notes from our restaurant:
Traditional Viennese cuisine in a historic ambience. With its rustic parlors, the inn is one of the oldest inns in the city. As soon as you enter, the facade reflects old Viennese inn culture. Throughout its history, the inn has always been carefully renovated. It may not have looked much different in the days of Schubert and Nestroy: convivial parlors, belt floors, wooden benches!
Since we all get the rest of the day for optional self-exploration, we will do our daily 'recap' at lunch.
Keyrow Tours coordinates the ambiance and the magic of travel. However, YOU are the travelers soaking in the experience. You become the experts!
Each evening, a few guests will be asked to present a brief reflection: there is no right or wrong with your reflection.
This could be something simple like sharing what your favorite observation was from earlier in the day. Previous Keyrow travelers have read passages from books, shared prior travel memories, created custom poems, and offered personal thoughts on their life's journey…the possibilities are endless!
You'll have the rest of the day to explore on your own.
Want to visit a palace or museum? We can help arrange that for you or point you in the right direction.
Want to shop until you drop at the Christmas Markets?
Maybe you want to try the fairytale ice rink route?
OR you are invited to join Cody as she makes her way back through the beautiful city.
For those who wish, we will regroup in the hotel lobby at 6:20 PM to depart via taxi to The Belvedere Palace Market.
If there’s one Christmas market in Vienna that really makes a statement, it’s the market at Belvedere Palace. This baroque palace dresses up for the occasion, with lights, garlands and decorated trees.
The market itself is smaller than some of the others you have visited, but the romantic atmosphere and gorgeous view are worth the trip.
We will taxi home around 8:00 PM.
We have an early departure tomorrow for the train station, so it might be wise to pack up your Christmas Market finds this evening!
Grab and go breakfast arranged.
We will travel across Austria through beautiful sights on this 3 hour journey.
There is a dining car and comfortable seating for your pleasure.
Snowcapped mountains hug all sides of this fairytale city, and its Christmas Market will be equally enchanting.
Salzburg was originally known as Juvavum, a trading stop on one of the Roman Empire’s most important routes. It fell on hard times after the Goths’ attack on Rome... all that remained was a small village.
In 696 AD, the city was revived. Bishop Rupert was so fond of the area’s beauty that he re-named it Salzburg after the river Salzach, and made it an Episcopal See. His successors were instrumental in creating the Salzburg we know today, including its majestic Baroque churches, palaces, and castles. Most of the cultural treasures, including the Altstadt (the Old Town) and the Hohensalzburg fortress, are in the western part of the city known as Salzachufer.
One of the world’s most outstanding geniuses, Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart, was born here in 1756. His place of birth, Hagenauer Haus, still stands to this day.
After World War II, Salzburg became one of Austria’s most important commercial centers, as well as one of its largest tourist destinations. One of the major reasons was the 1964 film, "The Sound of Music."
We will stay in a traditional, family-run hotel in the heart of Salzburg's cultural center. Built in 1342, the best style epochs of the last 600 years are reflected in the hotel's design.
We will meet in the hotel lobby to then head off to a special, pre dinner Christmas Market experience, only really known but by the locals! A hot mug of Glühwein will be waiting for us!
They have a small christmas market inside the Cathedral /restaurant complex only the locals really know about that we can visit before dinner.
We will arrive early and have a mug of Gluegwine and shop then eat dinner at 6pm
Menu options chosen before hand. Lanna has been the contact. Pay on site.
Hospitality and culinary delights have been practiced in the St. Peter Stiftskulinarium for over 1200 years. As the oldest restaurant in Europe, St. Peter combines award-winning cuisine, good vibes, music and wine culture within the ancient walls of downtown Salzburg - since 803 AD.
Keyrow Tours coordinates the ambiance and the magic of travel. However, YOU are the travelers soaking in the experience. You become the experts!
Each evening, a few guests will be asked to present a brief reflection: there is no right or wrong with your reflection.
This could be something simple like sharing what your favorite observation was from earlier in the day. Previous Keyrow travelers have read passages from books, shared prior travel memories, created custom poems, and offered personal thoughts on their life's journey…the possibilities are endless!
We will enjoy a 2 hour walking tour through one of the most beautiful cities in Europe.
The afternoon is yours to shop the Christmas Market, enjoy one of the many museums, churches or historic buildings... or relax at the hotel spa and sauna.
An early evening, reveling in traditions!
Notes from the Restaurant:
Since 1883, original, down-to-earth Austrian cuisine has been cooked in these venerable walls according to the old recipes - ladies and gentlemen from society have always come, the citizens as well as the workers and the rural population - it was and is - an inn for everyone!
Join Cody for a last winter stroll through Salzburg. What a beautiful way to spend our last evening together... sipping mulled wine and soaking in the twinkling lights.
Keyrow Tours coordinates the ambiance and the magic of travel. However, YOU are the travelers soaking in the experience. You become the experts!
Each evening, a few guests will be asked to present a brief reflection: there is no right or wrong with your reflection.
This could be something simple like sharing what your favorite observation was from earlier in the day. Previous Keyrow travelers have read passages from books, shared prior travel memories, created custom poems, and offered personal thoughts on their life's journey…the possibilities are endless!
Due to the early nature of our departure, it might be best to grab breakfast at the airport.
