Planning a Winter Trip: Best Christmas Markets in Germany and Austria?

My partner and I are planning a two-week trip this December to experience the best Christmas markets in Germany and Austria. We are looking for a mix of traditional, fairytale-like settings and vibrant city atmospheres. Could you recommend your top must-visit markets and perhaps suggest a logical route to take between them? Any tips on avoiding the worst of the crowds or specific regional specialties we should try would be greatly appreciated.

Start in Munich for the traditional vibe, then head to Salzburg for pure fairytale magic. Don't skip Nuremberg, but get there early in the morning to beat the massive tour groups.

If you are planning to travel extensively by train, you should check out this guide on whether the Interrail pass is worth it for your specific route.

Vienna is non-negotiable! The Rathausplatz market is stunning, but if you want something more intimate, try the Spittelberg market in the narrow alleys.

For a perfect two-week loop, I suggest starting in Frankfurt, moving to Rothenburg ob der Tauber, then down to Munich, Salzburg, and finally Vienna. It's a classic route for a reason.

Make sure to try 'Feuerzangenbowle' in Germany and 'Kaiserschmarrn' in Austria. You won't regret the calories, trust me!

To avoid crowds, visit the markets on weekdays. Weekends are absolute chaos in cities like Dresden or Nuremberg.

I did a similar trip last year and found that planning is key. You might find some helpful tips in this ultimate 2-week Western Europe itinerary to help structure your days.

Rothenburg ob der Tauber looks like a movie set. It’s small, so stay overnight to enjoy it after the day-trippers leave.

Don't miss the market in Cologne right in front of the cathedral. The backdrop is unbeatable, especially when it starts snowing.

For an authentic Austrian experience, head to Innsbruck. The view of the Alps behind the Golden Roof is simply breathtaking.

Pro tip: Always carry cash. Many smaller stalls at these markets don't accept cards, even in 2024.

If you want to escape the city crowds, look into the smaller markets in the Salzkammergut region near Salzburg, like St. Wolfgang.

Dress in layers. You’ll be standing on cold cobblestones for hours, and thermal socks are a total game changer.

Regensburg is an underrated gem. The Thurn und Taxis Christmas market is probably the most beautiful private market in Germany.

Focus on the local Glühwein mugs. They are great souvenirs and every city has a unique design for that year!