Our first stop on Day 4 is Speyer Germany where we take an included excursion to Heidelburg, home to the first university in Germany, and the Heidelburg Castle. There is an Ice Rink set up at the castle, and so many people enjoying ice skating. The Christmas Market here is scattered over the Town Square, and our guide leaves us to shop until we drop. Oh My! The Gluhwein here is to die for.

Day 3 takes us to Strasbourg on the French border. This is the prime region of Alcace, France. During our included guided tour, we keep passing the outdoor market booths, and the smell of local pastries. This Market is truly the BEST Christmas Market in all of Europe. It certainly was one of the very first markets. Near the Cathedral is the Town Christmas Tree, and what a magnificent tribute to what a town can truly do to mark the Christmas spirit.

Toward evening, we enjoyed the many flavors of warm, mulled wines as we sipped and walked, and nibbled. Back at our ship, we really enjoyed the woodcarving demonstration put on for us by local artisans.