We depart St Pancras International by Eurostar (Standard Class) for Brussels, connecting via Cologne, to the high speed ICE service (First Class) southwards. We arrive in Basel this evening, for our four night stay at the Hotel Victoria, located close to the station. On arrival this evening, we enjoy dinner. (D)

This morning we take a guided tour of Basel's beautiful Old Town. At this time of year the city is very much focused on Christmas; Basel has both Switzerland's largest and most traditional Christmas Market, and Europe's longest illuminated Christmas street. We include a coffee stop in the world famous Johann Wanner Christmas Shop which supplies hand-made decorations to the Vatican and the White House, amongst others. Your afternoon is free to soak up the wonderful atmosphere and explore the Christmas Market. (B)

From Basel, we head north by coach through the lush woodlands and wintry landscapes of the Black Forest to the fairytale city of Freiburg, where the Christmas Market, on the Rathausplatz and in Franziskanerstrasse, is located in the very heart of the beautiful historical quarter. We continue our journey to Zürich, known as Switzerland's cultural capital, situated on the river Limmat, at the northern end of Lake Zürich. This beautiful city is home to Europe's largest covered Christmas Market which is held in the main railway station, as well as three other markets around the city. (B)

Your day is free to explore Basel, perhaps using the tram pass we include. Alternatively, take the train to Bern, with its perfectly preserved medieval streets, street fountains and doughty towers. This evening, enjoy dinner at a local restaurant. (B,D)

We depart First Class, via Cologne to Brussels. There, we join our Eurostar service to St Pancras International (Standard Class). (B)

B = Breakfast, L = Lunch, D = Dinner
These meals, where shown, are included in the price of your holiday