Czechia·7 - 13 December 2025

From Saxony to Prague for the Holidays

Winter wonders await in Germany and the heart of the Czech Republic

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Dresdenxmasmarket

Overview

Dresden, the Florence on the Elbe, sets the stage for a magical winter adventure. With its Baroque splendor and rich cultural heritage, the city invites you to explore iconic landmarks like the Frauenkirche, the Dresden Zwinger, and the Semperoper, each a masterpiece of art and history. Wander through the Striezelmarkt, one of Germany's oldest Christmas markets, where handcrafted treasures and festive treats capture the season’s spirit. From Dresden, the enchantment continues into the Czech Republic. At Castle Melnik, ancient walls and storied wine cellars provide a warm welcome, inviting you to taste history with every sip. Next, Chateau Mcely offers an elegant retreat where castle charm meets spa serenity, and hands-on workshops turn your memories into lasting keepsakes. In Prague, the city of a hundred spires, cobbled streets and grand architecture lead you through a tale of history and holiday wonder. Explore the festive Christmas markets, savor mulled wine and traditional treats, and enjoy magical evenings with classical concerts at the Lobkowicz Palace and scenic walks across Charles Bridge. Let the beauty of the season and the spirit of this journey fill you with warmth, wonder, and holiday joy, making this winter adventure truly unforgettable.

Highlights

Experience porcelain crafting at Meissen

Experience porcelain crafting at Meissen

Stroll through Prague's festive Christmas markets

Stroll through Prague's festive Christmas markets

Relax in a Czech castle with an integrated spa

Relax in a Czech castle with an integrated spa

Witness glassmaking artistry at Rückl Glass Factory

Witness glassmaking artistry at Rückl Glass Factory

Enjoy a classical concert at Lobkowicz Palace

Enjoy a classical concert at Lobkowicz Palace

Discover Dresden's Baroque splendor

Discover Dresden's Baroque splendor

Itinerary

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Day1_Dresdencopy

Dresden, Germany

Day 1: Sunday, 7 December 2025

Arriving in Dresden, we’re greeted by the charm of Baroque architecture adorned with holiday lights, casting a festive glow over the city’s historic heart. After landing, take a taxi from Dresden Airport directly to the Steigenberger Hotel de Saxe, ideally located near the bustling Neumarkt square. If you prefer, you can purchase a private transfer in advance through our Add Ons section, and we’ll ensure everything is arranged for a seamless arrival.

Once checked in, we’ll unwind in the hotel’s inviting spa, letting the warmth of a rejuvenating afternoon ease us into the journey ahead.

As evening settles in, we gather for a welcome drink, sharing the excitement of the days to come, before enjoying a cozy dinner at Augustiner an der Frauenkirche, where classic German flavors and a festive ambiance complete our first night in Dresden.

Included

Dinner

Dresdenxmasmarket

Dresden, Germany

Day 2: Monday, 8 December 2025

Our day starts with breakfast at the hotel before we step out to explore Dresden’s rich Baroque history on a guided tour. We’ll visit the iconic Frauenkirche, the grand Semperoper, and the opulent Dresden Zwinger, each landmark revealing layers of the city’s past and cultural elegance.

For lunch, we’ll gather at Radeberger Spezialausschank to enjoy regional flavors. The afternoon offers a leisurely break to explore or relax at the hotel before we set out to experience Dresden’s famed Christmas markets.

Wandering through stalls filled with handcrafted ornaments and festive treats, we’ll end at the Striezelmarkt, Germany’s oldest Christmas market, for a taste of gingerbread and mulled wine. Grab something at the market, room service, or a bite to eat for dinner on your own. 

Included

Breakfast-Lunch

Not Included

Dinner

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Dresden - Meissen, Germany

Day 3: Tuesday, 9 December 2025

After breakfast, we’ll journey to the picturesque town of Meissen, a charming destination renowned for its stunning hilltop views and rich heritage. Here, we’ll uncover the artistry and history behind Europe’s oldest porcelain manufactory, a place where centuries-old craftsmanship thrives. 

At the Meissen Porcelain Museum, skilled artisans reveal the intricate secrets behind each delicate piece, guiding us through the process as we create a personal porcelain keepsake to bring home. 

Lunch awaits at the inviting Domkeller, offering us a chance to savor local flavors in a warm, rustic setting. Afterward, there’s time to wander through Meissen’s Old Town, where medieval streets and quaint shops beckon us to explore. 

As evening approaches, we’ll return to Dresden for a delightful dinner at Kobalt Royal, where innovative cuisine meets a cozy, inviting ambiance—the perfect way to unwind after a day steeped in artistry and discovery.

Included

All meals

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Mcely, Czechia

Day 4: Wednesday, 10 December, 2025

Today, after breakfast, we bid farewell to Dresden and cross into the Czech Republic, ready to dive into a new chapter of our journey. 

Our first stop is the storied Castle Melnik, where centuries-old architecture and rich history await. We’ll wander through the grand rooms, each echoing with tales of the past, and then descend into the castle’s wine cellars to savor a tasting of local varietals that capture the spirit of the region.

From here, we journey to Chateau Mcely, a luxurious countryside retreat that promises both relaxation and indulgence. A delicious lunch awaits us upon arrival, set in the heart of this charming estate. 

We'll then enjoy a holistic massage and you can also take time to fully unwind with a stroll through the chateau grounds or a soothing holistic massage that invites deep relaxation. 

As evening falls, we’ll gather in the elegant Golden Hall of the Chateau for a memorable dinner, surrounded by the timeless beauty and grace of this historic chateau.

Included

All meals

Holistic massage

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Prague, Czechia

Day 5: Thursday, 11 December 2025

Following breakfast, we make our way to Prague. 

Upon arrival, we begin with a guided tour through the Old Town, exploring the city’s Art Nouveau treasures.

After lunch and free time at the Christmas Market, we’ll check into the Hotel Boho and take the afternoon to relax or explore Prague’s festive stalls. 

As evening falls, we’ll walk across the iconic Charles Bridge, where holiday lights and the glow of the city create a magical atmosphere. Our evening ends with dinner at the Restaurant Mlynec, offering stunning views of Charles Bridge and the Vltava River.

Included

All meals

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Prague, Czechia

Day 6: Friday, 12 December 2025

After breakfast, we make our way to Prague Castle, where we’ll explore the St. Vitus Cathedral, the Royal Palace, and the charming Golden Lane. 

At Lobkowicz Palace Café, we’ll enjoy an early lunch before taking in a midday classical concert within the palace’s elegant halls. 

Our day continues with a visit to the Mucha Museum, celebrating the renowned Czech Art Nouveau artist. 

In the afternoon, we pause for coffee and cake at the Grand Café Orient, the only cubist café in the world, adding a delightful touch to our day. We end with dinner at Brewery and Restaurant U Flekůone of the most famous and most visited Czech cultural sights. 

Included

All meals

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Farewell to Prague

Day 7: Saturday, 13 December 2025

On our final morning, we gather one last time over breakfast, surrounded by new friendships and the lingering warmth of Prague’s holiday magic. 

The festive lights, centuries-old castles, and the quiet glow of Christmas markets have wrapped us in a season unlike any other. 

As we check out and make our way to the airport, each of us carries the spirit of this Czech winter—a season woven with wonder, friendship, and shared laughter. 

Flying homeward, we bring with us not only memories but the joy of a Christmas filled with new connections, ready to share the magic of our journey with loved ones waiting to celebrate the season.

Included

Breakfast

Airport transfer

You'll Be Staying Here

Steigenberger Hotel de Saxe

Steigenberger Hotel de Saxe

The Steigenberger Hotel de Saxe is a refined 4-star hotel nestled in the heart of Dresden, Germany, at the iconic Neumarkt square. With its prime location, the hotel offers stunning views of the historic Frauenkirche, one of Dresden's most famous landmarks.


Chateau Mcely

Chateau Mcely

Chateau Mcely, located in the picturesque village of Mcely, Czech Republic, is a 17th-century Baroque chateau that has been meticulously restored to blend historic charm with modern luxury. Originally built as a hunting lodge, it later served as the country residence for various aristocratic families. The chateau fell into disrepair during the 20th century but was revitalized and transformed into a five-star eco-friendly hotel. 

Hotel  BoHo

Hotel BoHo

Hotel BoHo Prague is a sophisticated 4-star boutique hotel situated in the heart of Prague, Czech Republic. Located just steps away from the Old Town Square, the hotel provides easy access to many of the city's renowned attractions, including the Astronomical Clock and Charles Bridge.

Hosts

Rachel Watts

Rachel Watts

Rachel is a dynamic professional with a diverse background as a tour facilitator, international development expert, and filmmaker. Her passion for exploring different cultures and histories unites these roles, as she strives to foster understanding and appreciation of diverse ways of life. 

Originally from England, Rachel has called Spain home for the past decade. Her adventurous spirit shines through her impressive achievements, including summiting Kilimanjaro three times, mastering camel riding, and embarking on solo travels across South America—before even learning Spanish!

Price

Private Room

Private Room

Everyone gets their own fabulous room!

FROM$9,395

Add Ons

Arrive one day early in Dresden

Arrive one day early in Dresden

Includes 1 night at Hotel

PRICE$580.00

ADD THIS
Arrival Airport Transfer from Dresden Airport

Arrival Airport Transfer from Dresden Airport

You will be meet at the airport and transferred to Hotel Steigenberger.

PRICE$60.00

ADD THIS

From Baroque Beauty to Bohemian Charm

A Winter Journey through Germany and Czechia

In the heart of Central Europe, Germany and Czechia blend natural beauty with history. Dresden, poised along the Elbe River, showcases Baroque elegance against Saxony’s gentle hills. Nearby Meissen sits amid vineyards, known for its porcelain artistry. Crossing into Czechia, Bohemia’s rolling forests lead us to Prague, where medieval streets and castle views along the Vltava capture winter’s quiet magic.

A Winter Journey through Germany and Czechia

What's Included

What's Included

Everything specified in the itinerary

All meals (except where indicated), including beer & wine with dinner

Accomodations at unique, 4-star or better hotels

Workshop at the Meissen Porcelain Manufactory

All transportation during the trip (expect where indicated)

A small group experience

Expert guides and trip leaders

Wine tasting and exclusive access to the Golden Hall at Chateau Mcely

One holistic massage at Chateau Mcely

Departure airport transfer

Additional wine, beer, and/or spirits beyond what's offered at meals

All personal souvenirs

Travel and medical insurance (required)

Roundtrip airfare to/from Germany/Czech Republic

Arrival airport transfer

FAQs

The trip officially starts on the afternoon of December 7th. If you'd like some time to relax in Dresden, you can purchase an Arrive One Day Early option in the Add-on section on our website. 

You should fly into Dresden Airport (DRS) in Germany at the start of the journey. For your return, you’ll fly out from Václav Havel Airport Prague (PRG) in the Czech Republic at the end of the trip.

 

Typically, the weather is 30F-40F (0C-5C). So bring some warm clothes!

We will have a Zoom call about 6 weeks before the trip starts to discuss all that information and give you a packing list. Here is a great website that we love that will help you with packing and travel trips. 

Starting in 2025, travelers to the UK and most of Europe will need to apply for travel authorizations. On January 8th, 2025, the UK requires an Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA), valid for 2 years. If you get a new passport, you will need to get a new ETA.


Beginning in May 2025 travel to countries in the Schengen Zone—most of Europe except for Ireland— requires a European Travel Information and Authorization System (ETIAS) application. This is valid for up to 3 years or until your passport expires whichever comes first. 


Both applications are completed online. The process is quick and involves a small fee. Girls’ Guide to the World offers concierge assistance to help with these processes for all our trips.

Inquire about this trip

From Saxony to Prague for the Holidays

Czechia· 7 - 13 December 2025· 6 nights

FROM$9,395/pp