CHRISTMAS MARKETS OF EUROPE: A PAN AM JOURNEY BY PRIVATE AIR
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WHEN: Dec. 5–14, 2025
WHERE: A private air journey to four of Europe’s most beloved Christmas destinations — Funchal, Madeira (Portugal); Vienna, Austria; Nuremberg, Germany; and Riga, Latvia.
OFFER DETAILS: Packages from $39,950 per person, sharing accommodations; single supplement from $3,995.
Pan American World Airways, founded in 1927, left an indelible mark on global aviation, pioneering countless “firsts” in international travel. No other airline shaped the world of air travel quite like Pan Am, and its spirit of adventure continues to inspire today. Channeling that same pioneering elegance, we’ve curated an exclusive holiday itinerary that captures the magic of Pan Am’s “Golden Age of Travel,” blending luxury, nostalgia and festive cheer. This bespoke journey takes you to four of Europe’s most beloved Christmas destinations, offering a rare opportunity to experience the charm of the holiday season in an extraordinary way.
CELEBRATE THE FESTIVE SEASON LIKE NEVER BEFORE
For many, the joy of Christmas extends far beyond a single day — it’s about savoring the festive season with family, friends and unforgettable experiences. There’s no better way to celebrate than by visiting Europe’s most enchanting Christmas markets, where you can immerse in local traditions, discover unique gifts and indulge in seasonal delights.
In the spirit of Pan Am’s legendary service — renowned for its sophistication and exclusivity — this extraordinary holiday experience is available to just 50 discerning travelers. To ensure a seamless and personalized journey, we invite you to book through a Global Travel Collection advisor, whose expertise will unlock exclusive benefits and insider access.
Secure your place on this remarkable journey and celebrate the season in unparalleled style. Contact your Global Travel Collection advisor today to reserve your spot.
A BESPOKE HOLIDAY ITINERARY
Dec. 5: New York to Funchal, Madeira
Fly overnight to Funchal
Dec. 6: Maderia
Morning arrival, afternoon touring of the island, evening market
Dec. 7: Maderia
Explore the island’s volcanic peaks, thatched cottages, national parks
Dec. 8: Funchal to Vienna, Austria
Fly to Vienna, explore nighttime markets around the city
Dec. 9: Vienna
See Schoenbrunn Palace, private concert, various markets
Dec. 10: Vienna to Nuremberg, Germany
Short flight to Nuremberg, visit nearby Regensburg
Dec. 11: Nuremberg
Nuremberg Castle, Old Town walking tour, Christmas train
Dec. 12: Nuremberg to Riga, Latvia
Fly to Riga, explore central city, Nutcracker at opera house
Dec. 13: Riga
Tour of Old Town, afternoon at central market in Dome Square
Dec. 14: Riga to New York
Return flight to New York
RELIVE THE GOLDEN AGE OF AIR TRAVEL
Step back into the glamour and sophistication of Pan Am’s iconic legacy with a bespoke journey that blends nostalgia with modern luxury. This extraordinary adventure celebrates the spirit of Pan Am through impeccable service, stays at world-class hotels and carefully curated experiences that evoke the golden days of travel.
- Revel in the glamour and nostalgia as you pay tribute to Pan Am’s legacy with top-tier service, stays at luxury hotels and immersive experiences that echo the elegance of a bygone era. Expect iconic Pan Am logos and designs to add a touch of nostalgia throughout your journey.
- Travel with ease and comfort aboard a privately chartered Boeing 757-200, ensuring a seamless experience without the delays of commercial air travel. Enjoy hassle-free connections between cities and continents while embracing the joy of stress-free travel.
- Explore four of the most-loved European Christmas market destinations: Funchal on the Atlantic island of Madeira, the warmest Christmas market in Europe; Vienna, Austria, filled with various markets famous for traditional crafts and culinary treats; Nuremberg, Germany, with a magical, fairytale-like atmosphere; and Riga, Latvia, perhaps the most traditional and most historic of them all.
- Enjoy a variety of included excursions in each city to further enrich the experience, including the Laurisilva Forest (a UNESCO World Heritage Site) and Vila da Carne in Madeira; a tour of Schoenbrunn Palace and a private concert at the Palais Coburg in Vienna; a private ride on Nuremberg’s Christmas train; and a performance of Tchaikovsky’s Nutcracker ballet, a worldwide Christmas favorite, in Riga’s Opera House.
THE MARKETS
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FUNCHAL, MADEIRA (PORTUGAL)
The heart of Avenida Arriaga transforms into a festive wonderland during Madeira’s enchanting Christmas celebrations, drawing locals and visitors alike into its warm and joyful atmosphere. The charming market stalls that line the avenue invite you to explore an array of regional delights, including the iconic poncha — a beloved local drink made with sugarcane rum, honey, and lemon juice — alongside traditional sweets, freshly baked bolo do caco, and an assortment of seasonal fruits.
Adding to the festive charm, beautifully crafted Madeira embroidery, often adorned with intricate holiday designs, makes for a perfect keepsake or gift. As you stroll through the vibrant scene, a breathtaking nativity display captures the essence of the season, while the sounds of Christmas carols performed by local choirs fill the air. Captivating folklore shows and live entertainment bring Madeira’s rich cultural heritage to life, making the Christmas experience on Avenida Arriaga truly unforgettable.
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VIENNA, AUSTRIA
Vienna’s festive spirit comes to life in its iconic Christkindlmarkt (Christmas markets), with the most famous set against the grand backdrop of the Rathaus. Stroll through stalls filled with handcrafted gifts, savor the aroma of roasting nuts and warm mulled wine, and admire miles of twinkling lights.
Glide across the nearby ice rink for a magical skating experience, or cozy up in a charming café with a slice of Sachertorte. Vienna’s timeless charm and rich holiday traditions make it the perfect destination for an unforgettable Christmas experience, where every corner feels like a scene from a winter fairytale.
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NUREMBERG, GERMANY
Nuremberg transforms into a winter wonderland every December, home to Christkindlesmarkt, one of Europe’s oldest and most famous Christmas markets. Visitors from around the world come to witness the festive lights, explore charming stalls offering traditional crafts, and indulge in seasonal treats such as Nuremberg gingerbread and bratwurst.
The cobblestone streets and historic landmarks of Nuremberg’s old town add a fairytale-like charm to this magical holiday destination. Delight in the festive carousel and admire the handcrafted toys that make perfect keepsakes or gifts for little ones. As the sound of carolers fills the air and the scent of mulled wine drifts through the streets, Nuremberg offers an enchanting Christmas experience that lingers in the heart long after your return home.
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RIGA, LATVIA
Riga is breathtaking year-round, but the weeks leading up to Christmas offer an especially enchanting experience. The traditional Christmas market at Dome Square invites visitors with unique decorations and the scent of cinnamon, ginger, and roasted almonds filling the air. Discover one-of-a-kind gifts while savoring traditional foods and specialty beverages. Enjoy performances by folklore ensembles, musical groups, and DJs, and take part in hands-on workshops with Santa’s little helpers.
Glide across the nearby ice rink for a festive skate under the twinkling lights, or warm up by an open fire with a cup of steaming mulled wine. As snow gently blankets the city’s medieval architecture, Riga transforms into a true winter fairytale that captivates every visitor.
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THE AIRCRAFT
Pan Am’s privately chartered 757-200 aircraft features:
- 50 lie-flat, business-class seats
- Unique “buddy” seats for dining and socializing
- Streaming in-flight entertainment for personal devices
- Upscale catering and open bar
Experience the convenience and luxury of private air travel with five comfortable on-tour flights aboard a modern, privately chartered aircraft. Flight durations range from 1 to 7.5 hours, ensuring a smooth and efficient journey between destinations. Additionally, you will enjoy VIP treatment at every stop. Your dedicated on-board logistics manager will expertly assist with security, customs and immigration formalities, allowing you to bypass the long waits of public terminals.
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THE HOTELS
You will be treated to stays at some of Europe’s most luxurious and iconic hotels, each offering an unparalleled blend of elegance and comfort:
- Belmond Reid’s Palace Madeira
- Anantara Palace Vienna
- Scandic Hotel Nuremberg
- Grand Hotel Kempinski Riga
In Madeira, enjoy the timeless charm of Belmond Reid’s Palace, perched on a cliff overlooking the Atlantic, renowned for its lush gardens, impeccable service and classic sophistication. In Vienna, the Anantara Palace Vienna provides an opulent stay in the heart of the city, combining historic grandeur with modern luxury. Nuremberg’s Scandic Hotel offers a stylish and convenient base to explore the city’s famed Christmas markets and historic Old Town. Finally, in Riga, you will feel pampered at Grand Hotel Kempinski with its refined elegance and exceptional amenities, located just steps from the city’s enchanting Christmas market at Dome Square.
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PROGRAM RATES
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WHAT'S INCLUDED?
- All accommodations, meals, and excursions as specified in the itinerary, including eight nights at deluxe hotel accommodations, and five private on-tour flights
- Comprehensive program of briefings and presentations
- Transfers for all participants on group arrival and departure dates
- Gratuities to porters, wait staff, guides, drivers, and aircraft personnel for all group activities
- All entrance fees
- Welcome and farewell receptions
- Open bar on board the aircraft
- House wine, beer, and soft drinks with all group lunches and dinners
- Complete packet of pre-departure information
- Exclusive swag bag limited to the 50 participants
- Professional tour managers throughout the program
Per person, sharing accommodations: $39,950
Per person, single supplement: $3,995
Embark on this extraordinary holiday adventure and experience the festive season like never before. Connect with your Global Travel Collection advisor today to secure your reservation.
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This commemorative journey is a collaboration between Criterion Travel and Bartelings Associates in an officially licensed partnership with Pan American World Airways.
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