Call us on 138 747 (AU), 0800 447 913 (NZ), contact your local Viking travel advisor or visit viking.com | 13
BASEL, SWITZERL AND
Explore a softer, more whimsical side of
Basel, with a Christmas market set beneath
centuries-old churches and sparkling fairy
lights. Savour unique Swiss delicacies like
Basler Läckerli, a chewy gingerbread spiced
with cloves and candied peel, crafted to a
secret local recipe that is guarded all year.
The Basler Wunschbuch, or Basel Wish Book
has become a beloved Christmas tradition.
Set in the courtyard of the Town Hall, this
large, leather-bound volume invites visitors to
pen their Christmas wishes and read heartfelt
messages from around the world. Styled like
a medieval codex, it captures the spirit of the
season in ink and sentiment.
BAMBERG, GERMANY
A UNESCO World Heritage city, Bamberg
exudes medieval charm year-round, but
during Advent, it transforms into a festive
masterpiece. At the Bamberg Christmas
Market you'll find Franconian specialties like
bratwurst and lebkuchen, alongside hand-
blown ornaments and artisan gifts. But what
truly sets Bamberg apart is its Krippenweg,
or Nativity Path. A centuries-old tradition, the
Nativity Path is a celebrated part of Bamberg's
heritage. This city-wide trail features over
40 nativity scenes displayed in churches,
museums, and shop windows—from traditional
wooden cribs to modern interpretations.
BASEL, SWITZERLAND