Germany at Christmas is truly a fairy tale experience.  With a backdrop of half-timbered houses, cobblestone streets, medieval villages, snowy alpine retreats, and the smell of seasonal treats and mulled wine, you’ll be captivated.

The following itinerary starts in Berlin, goes south, and loops back up to Frankfurt.  The trains are easily accessible to each place.

Germany at Christmas

Days 1-4:  Berlin

Christmas Eve at Berlin Cathedral

One of our favorite things to do on our Christmas trips is to attend a Christmas Eve service at a grand cathedral.  The Berlin Cathedral did not disappoint!  Its grandeur is apparent year-round but shines even brighter at Christmas. Its ornate interiors, soaring dome, and famous pipe organ are mesmerizing.  If your time in Berlin doesn’t fall on Christmas Eve, you’ll be able to find another church on your journey if you choose.  Either way, be sure to see the Berlin Cathedral!

Tiergarten

This vast park offers a serene escape from the city’s bustling streets. In winter, the Tiergarten is especially enchanting, with frosted trees and pathways leading to nearby Christmas markets brimming with seasonal treats.

Gedächtniskirche (Kaiser Wilhelm Memorial Church)

A symbol of Berlin’s resilience, this partially destroyed church is both a historical monument and a stunning architectural piece. During Christmas, it’s surrounded by the Christmas market on Breitscheidplatz, one of Berlin’s best markets.

Reichstag Building

The Reichstag stands as a powerful symbol of German democracy. Its glass dome offers breathtaking panoramic views of Berlin, especially beautiful when the city is twinkling with festive lights.

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East Side Gallery

Berlin Wall Memorial & East Side Gallery

The remnants of the Berlin Wall at the memorial are where stories of division and unity unfold. The East Side Gallery adds a vibrant touch with colorful murals celebrating freedom and hope.

Stasi Museum

Housed in the former headquarters of East Germany’s secret police, this museum provides a fascinating look into the surveillance and control of the Stasi era.

Charlottenburg Palace

This opulent baroque palace feels like a step back in time. Its gardens and Christmas market create a romantic holiday setting, complete with artisan stalls and live music.  The Christmas market outside is filled with warm seasonal drinks, food, and Christmas goods.

Days 5-6:  Nuremberg & Rothenburg

Nuremberg and Rothenburg are well-known for their Christmas markets.  Both small villages, they are a must-see during the holiday.  The markets are, of course, the main attraction, there are other places to see if you can fit them in.

Nuremberg

Kinderweihnacht

Nuremberg Christkindlesmarkt

Christmas Markets

Nuremberg Christkindlesmarkt is one of Germany’s oldest and most famous Christmas markets, it’s a feast for the senses. Sip on mulled wine, snack on Nuremberg sausages, and browse stalls selling handcrafted ornaments and gifts. It is located in the Main Market Square near the church of St Lorenz.

Children’s Christmas Market (Kinderweihnacht) is located in Hans-Sachs-Platz (near the Christkindlesmarkt).

Sister Cities Market is located in Rathausplatz (behind the main market).

St. Lorenz Church

This towering Gothic church is a masterpiece of medieval architecture. Its grand rose window and intricate carvings are captivating, and the holiday decorations are lovely.

Nuremberg Castle

Overlooking the city, this impressive fortress is full of history. The views from its ramparts are particularly stunning in winter, especially when the rooftops below are dusted in snow.

Rothenburg

Christmas Village (Käthe Wohlfahrt)

Christmas Markets

Reiterlesmarkt is located in Marktplatz (Market Square) and the surrounding Old Town.

Christmas Village (Käthe Wohlfahrt) is a museum/shop located in Herrngasse, near the market square. This museum celebrates the history of its Christmas traditions. Its exhibits of ornaments, nativity scenes, and holiday decorations evoke the joy and nostalgia of the season.

Old Town

Rothenburg’s Old Town feels like stepping into a fairy tale. Its narrow cobblestone streets are lined with half-timbered houses, and the festive decorations make it even more magical during Christmas.

Plönlein

This iconic spot is one of the most photographed places in Germany. The charming half-timbered building at the fork of two streets is most likely the photo you’ve seen when researching this town.

Days 7-9:  Munich

Munich offers a perfect blend of Bavarian tradition and holiday cheer. From its bustling squares to cozy beer halls, the city radiates warmth and festivity.

Marienplatz & Glockenspiel Clock

Munich’s central square is the heart of the city’s Christmas celebrations. Be sure to see the towering Christmas tree and watch the Glockenspiel’s mechanical figures perform their charming dance.

Nymphenburg Palace

This sprawling palace is a masterpiece of baroque architecture. In winter, its gardens are covered in snow, creating a serene and picturesque setting.

Englischer Garten

One of the world’s largest urban parks, the Englischer Garten is a tranquil escape during the busy holiday season. You can take a stroll or stop at one of the traditional tea houses for a warm drink.

Viktualienmarkt

Hofbräuhaus

Beer Halls & Viktualienmarkt

No visit to Munich is complete without savoring its world-famous beer. Hofbräuhaus offers lively Bavarian ambiance, while Viktualienmarkt serves up delicious local dishes alongside handcrafted gifts.

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Days 10-12:  Bavarian Alps

The Bavarian Alps are just a stunning as you would imagine.  Their snow-capped peaks and fairy-tale castles create a magical atmosphere.  The adorable town of Fussen is an ideal base while exploring this area of the Alps.  Buses are very accessible to get to each of these locations.

Neuschwanstein Castle

Perched high on a hill, Neuschwanstein, known for being the inspiration for Disney’s Cinderella Castle, is the epitome of a fairy-tale castle. Its turrets and towers are even more enchanting against a snowy backdrop, making it a must-see during winter.

Hohes Schloss Castle

In the quaint town of Füssen, this well-preserved Gothic castle is known for its medieval design. Its courtyards and frescoes are particularly striking under the soft winter light.

Alpsee Lake

Surrounded by mountains and forests, Alpsee Lake is a peaceful retreat. Take a walk along its shores among the beauty of the Bavarian landscape.

St. Coloman Church

This picturesque church, set against a backdrop of the Alps, is a favorite spot for photographers. Its simple beauty and serene surroundings are worth the stop.

Füssen, Germany

Mt Tegelberg, just outside of Füssen

Days 13-14:  Frankfurt

Frankfurt is known as the financial hub of Germany.  It has a modern skyline as well as plenty of history and culture. During Christmas, the city comes alive with festive decorations, markets, and twinkling lights.

Römerberg and Frankfurt Christmas Market

Römerberg, the heart of Frankfurt’s Old Town, is a stunning square surrounded by medieval half-timbered buildings and the iconic Römer, a historic town hall. During Christmas, the square transforms into a magical market filled with festive lights, traditional crafts, and the aroma of roasted nuts and mulled wine. The towering Christmas tree in the center adds to the festive ambiance.

Städel Museum

One of Germany’s most renowned art museums, the Städel boasts a vast collection spanning over 700 years of European art. From masterpieces by Rembrandt and Vermeer to contemporary works, there’s something for every art lover.

Palmengarten

Frankfurt’s Palmengarten is a botanical garden much like a tropical escape in the middle of winter. You can enjoy its exotic plants as well as its special holiday lights during Christmas.

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Main Tower

For a bird’s-eye view of Frankfurt’s unique skyline, head to the Main Tower, one of the city’s tallest skyscrapers. The observation deck provides panoramic views of the city’s blend of old and new architecture.

Frankfurt Cathedral (Kaiserdom)

The Kaiserdom with its Gothic architecture, played a key role in German history as the coronation site for Holy Roman Emperors. Climb its tower for incredible views of the city and explore its beautiful stained glass windows and religious artifacts.