Looking for a festive holiday getaway with charming Christmas markets? Bavaria, Germany should be your top destination!
After all, the concept of European Christmas markets originated here, making it the ultimate destination to experience these magical traditions.
What began as open-air gatherings where townspeople stocked up on holiday goods and supplies has transformed over the centuries into vibrant events showcasing delicious food, handcrafted gifts, enchanting music, and sparkling decorations. From Germany, the tradition spread to Austria, Switzerland, France, and beyond, becoming a beloved holiday experience throughout Europe.
Join me as I share the highlights of our Christmas Market adventure and why Germany is a must-visit destination for the holiday season. Keep reading for all the festive details!
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Nuremburg
Nuremberg, Bavaria’s second-largest city, is celebrated for its stunning medieval architecture, rich historical significance, and world-famous Christmas market (the largest in Germany). The city also carries a haunting connection to its Nazi-era past, which is explored in its important history museums. While I didn’t dive into the historical sites myself, they make Nuremberg a must-visit for those interested in this aspect of history.
Just an hour away from Munich by frequent train, Nuremberg is an easy addition to any itinerary and makes an excellent base for exploring the city and taking a day trip to the picturesque town of Rothenburg.
Nuremberg Christmas Market
The Nuremberg Christmas Market, held in the city’s main square, is one of the most famous in Germany. It features endless rows of vendors offering handcrafted goods, holiday ornaments, and plenty of festive food options to enjoy. At night, the market becomes even more enchanting with twinkling lights, and during our visit, a choir was serenading the crowd.
Imperial Castle
A visit to Nuremberg wouldn’t feel complete without seeing the Imperial Castle, a key symbol of the city. The castle offers great views of Nuremberg and provides insights into its history. The upper hall is especially interesting, with interactive displays and artifacts that explain the Holy Roman Empire. You can also walk through former living quarters and check out an exhibit of old weapons.
Craftsman’s Courtyard
Craftsman’s Courtyard is a charming spot filled with traditional crafts and shops, making it a great stop for soaking in a medieval vibe before entering the old town. Built in 1971, the courtyard celebrates craftsmanship and honors the 500th birthday of Nuremberg’s most famous son, Albrecht Dürer, who is considered one of Germany’s greatest painters and a master craftsman.
Tanners' Lane (Weißgerbergasse)
Take a stroll along Weißgerbergasse, a charming cobblestone street lined with colorful half-timbered houses. It's one of the most picturesque streets in the city and a must-see for any visitor. After exploring the street, we continued our walk through the city to the Kettensteg (Chain Bridge), a historic iron footbridge offering lovely views of the river.
Dinner at Böhm's Herrenkeller
End your day with a cozy meal at Böhm's Herrenkeller, a traditional Franconian restaurant known for its hearty dishes at reasonable prices. We tried the Schweineschäufele, a tender oven-roasted pork shoulder served with a dumpling and salad. While the pork was delicious, I found the dumpling less appealing, but it's definitely worth trying for the experience!
Rothenburg
Rothenburg ob der Tauber is one of Germany's most charming and picturesque towns, famous for its fairytale-like atmosphere. As one of the best-preserved medieval walled towns in the country, it attracts many visitors while maintaining its timeless charm.
Christmas Market
The Christmas Market in Rothenburg is a must-see, offering rows of festive stalls filled with handcrafted goods, delicious food, and seasonal treats. The market’s cozy setting and vibrant decorations make it one of the highlights of the holiday season.
Christmas Trinket Shopping at Wohlfahrt
Wohlfahrt is a Christmas trinket haven, known for its wide range of festive decorations, ornaments, and holiday gifts. It’s a great place to pick up unique Christmas-themed items and souvenirs to take home.
Plönlein
Plönlein is a famous picture-perfect spot in Rothenburg, known for its charming medieval buildings and quaint streets. This area inspired the village in Disney’s 1940 film Pinocchio, and it's a popular spot for photos. Just around the corner, you'll find rows of pastel-colored buildings, adding to the town’s fairytale vibe.
Walk Along the Wall
The town wall stretches just over a mile and a half, offering fantastic views of Rothenburg and its surroundings. The walk can be completed in under an hour and is mostly covered, making it a great option even in rainy weather. Along the way, you can stop at nearly every tower and enjoy great photo opportunities.
View from the Town Hall Tower
For one of the best views in Rothenburg, climb the Town Hall Tower, the tallest spire in the city at 200 feet. The climb is steep and narrow, but the panoramic view from the top is well worth the effort. It’s not for those with a fear of heights, though!
Medieval Crime and Punishment Museum
For a break from the festive cheer, visit the Medieval Crime and Punishment Museum, one of Rothenburg’s must-see attractions. This fascinating museum dives into the history of medieval criminal justice, showcasing authentic artifacts and well-detailed exhibits in English. Unlike many other "torture museums" in Europe, this one goes beyond the gruesome to provide a deeper understanding of law enforcement and criminal practices during the medieval period.
Neuschwanstein Castle
No first-time trip to Germany would be complete without visiting the iconic Neuschwanstein Castle. Perched high above the town, this fairy-tale castle offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape, making it one of the most picturesque and famous landmarks in the country. In fact, it is widely believed that it was Walt Disney’s inspiration for Cinderella’s castle.
Castle Tour
We took a day trip from Munich to visit Neuschwanstein, and it was definitely a memorable part of our trip. The guided bus tour made the journey much easier, allowing us to relax and enjoy the scenic ride rather than worrying about logistics.
The castle tour is a bit rushed, lasting only 30 minutes and covering just 15 of the planned 200 rooms, as construction was halted after the king’s untimely death. However, it's still worth it to experience the lavishly decorated rooms that were completed. Walking up to the castle and taking in the views from both the castle and its surroundings were the real highlights for me.
Mary’s Bridge
Although it was closed in the winter during our visit, I can only imagine how incredible the view from Mary's Bridge would have been!
Hohenschwangau Castle
Just a short distance from Neuschwanstein, Hohenschwangau Castle is another must-see in the area. This charming castle, where King Ludwig II spent much of his childhood, offers a more intimate and historical look into Bavaria’s royal past. We didn’t have enough time to explore inside, but you can walk up into the courtyard and see the giftshop.
Munich
Munich, the capital of Bavaria, is a city brimming with charm and festive energy, particularly during the holiday season. Famous for its historic architecture, vibrant culture, and lively beer gardens, Munich transforms into a magical winter wonderland every December. The city is home to a variety of Christmas markets, each offering a unique experience, from cozy wooden stalls to grand palaces adorned with sparkling lights.
Christmas Markets
Marienplatz (Main Square)
Marienplatz is the heart of Munich and a great starting point to explore the city’s Christmas markets. The main square is home to the famous Christkindlmarkt, where you’ll find rows of festive stalls selling holiday decorations, handcrafted gifts, and delicious treats like roasted chestnuts and mulled wine.
Medieval Market
For something different, visit the medieval market near Viktualienmarkt. This market offers a step back in time with its medieval-style stalls selling handmade crafts, swords, animal skins, and traditional German goods. The costumed vendors add to the experience, creating a unique, old-world atmosphere that’s sure to transport you to another era.
Residenz Courtyard
The Residenz Palace hosts a beautiful Christmas market in its elegant courtyard. The market has a royal touch, with luxury goods, unique ornaments, and artisanal crafts. The grand setting makes it one of Munich’s more sophisticated holiday experiences.
Chinese Tower
Another festive highlight is the Christmas market at the Chinese Tower in the English Garden. This charming market is known for its cozy ambiance, with beautiful views of the surrounding park. Enjoy a warm drink or a plate of bratwurst as you browse the wooden huts filled with local crafts and treats.
Tollwood
Tollwood is a lively and distinctive Christmas market in Munich, known for its eclectic mix of global food, handmade crafts, and live performances. With a bohemian vibe, it's perfect for those looking for something unique. The market’s Bazaar tent is a standout, featuring a variety of vendors offering arts and crafts, making it an ideal spot for finding special gifts that differ from those at the city’s other markets.
Ice Skating at Munich Eiszauber
For a bit of winter fun, head to Munich Eiszauber, the city’s outdoor ice skating rink located near the Deutsches Museum. It’s a great way to embrace the winter atmosphere, surrounded by twinkling lights and festive music. While I love that there’s an ice rink right in the heart of the city, be prepared for crowds, especially on busy days. You’ll need an ID or a 50-euro deposit to rent skates, so plan ahead.
Residenz Palace and Treasury
While in the area, take some time to visit the Residenz Palace, the former royal residence of Bavarian monarchs. The palace is a stunning example of Baroque architecture, and the Treasury houses an impressive collection of royal artifacts, including crowns, jewels, and priceless artwork.
Neues Rathaus (New Town Hall)
No visit to Munich is complete without admiring the New Town Hall, particularly during the Christmas season. Its stunning Gothic architecture and the famous Glockenspiel make it one of the city's most iconic landmarks. For an extra special experience, sign up for a tour of the building to see the Instagram-worthy Law Library.
General Tips
Cash is King!
In Germany, cash is often preferred over cards, so it’s a good idea to carry some cash with you, especially for smaller purchases at markets or local shops where cards may not be accepted.
Tipping
Tipping is common but not mandatory in Germany. In restaurants, a tip of 10% is appreciated. It's customary to give the tip directly to the server rather than leaving it on the table.
Restrooms
Public restrooms may require a small fee (usually 0.50 to 1 EUR) to use. It’s a good idea to carry some coins with you for bathroom breaks when traveling.
Language
Although many Germans speak English, learning a few basic German phrases is always appreciated. Simple words like “Danke” (Thank you) can go a long way in showing respect for the local culture.
Transportation
Germany’s public transportation system is excellent and easy to navigate. It’s affordable and efficient, making it simple to get around. In Munich, consider purchasing a day pass for more value. The trains are well-connected, so it’s easy to base yourself in a major city like Munich and take day trips to places like castles or neighboring towns.
Thanks for reading!
- The Maine Chick
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