Germany's Greatest Christmas Markets
The Grinch himself wouldn't be able to resist the onslaught of festive fervor this German Christmas Markets tour brings. From late November right up until Christmas Germany goes crazy for gluhwein and gingerbread. City squares are taken over by vast trees and stalls selling tasty things to eat and drink or hang on your own tree back home. You'll start out in capital city Berlin. Berlin might not have the reputation for epic Christmas markets but you'll find them in all the main squares in each neighborhood. Next up is Dresden, in Lower Saxony. Dresden is most Germans' idea of the ideal Christmas market city and the signature Christstollen marzipan fruit loaf is a must-try. Heading into Bavaria, Nuremberg's Christmas markets, especially the medieval village feel of the Handwerkerhof, are not to be missed. Rothenburg, best known as a stop on the Romantic Road, The last stop is Munich, capital of Bavaria, where a diversity of Christmas markets awaits.
All of our tours are custom, and this is just a sample meant to give an idea of what our trips are like, and the opportunities our destinations provide. You could take this tour in reverse, or swap out destinations.
One of our team members in the region will be available to you leading up to and during your trip to answer any questions and arrange local services. You will receive access to your Guest Page, with its information on the best these destinations have to offer, including things to see and do, and other inside tips from restaurant recommendations to tipping advice. Upon arrival, we will provide you with a local SIM that you can use to reach your local JayWay contact throughout your trip. In all of our destinations, we offer a variety of memorable 3-5 star accommodation options, including boutique hotels and charming B&Bs. With our firsthand experience, we can ensure they are all clean, comfortable, and centrally located, with local ambience.
3 Nights in Berlin
3 Nights in Berlin
3 Nights in Berlin
A vibrant cosmopolitan city that’s rich in history and contemporary culture, Berlin is constantly evolving. From the ruins of World War II to the Cold War division of the Berlin wall, Berlin has always managed to rebuild. Germany's largest city, this sprawling (by European standards) metropolis has excellent public transportation, from subways to an official rowboat ferry. You’ll find a little of everything here, from history to high gastronomy, art museums to palaces, and plenty of lively bars and nightclubs. The nightlife here is world-class, but there’s more than enough to see during the day. Berlin is made up of distinctive neighborhoods, each with a different character. We recommend several ways of exploring the city, from a Cold War walking tour to a bike tour to see all the must-see sights in a simple and easy way. An exploration of the long and volatile history of Jewish culture in the city is eye-opening as Jewish life in Berlin has been meticulously documented. Many of the city’s art and culture museums offer unforgettable glimpses into history. Potsdam offers the perfect diversion for an afternoon, and Sanssouci Palace, with its well-tended gardens, is a beautiful reminder of the city’s impressive past. The past comes alive in Berlin, but the present is very much alive as well.
A vibrant cosmopolitan city that’s rich in history and contemporary culture, Berlin is constantly evolving. From the ruins of World War II to the Cold War division of the Berlin wall, Berlin has always managed to rebuild. Germany's largest city, this sprawling (by European standards) metropolis has excellent public transportation, from subways to an official rowboat ferry. You’ll find a little of everything here, from history to high gastronomy, art museums to palaces, and plenty of lively bars and nightclubs. The nightlife here is world-class, but there’s more than enough to see during the day. Berlin is made up of distinctive neighborhoods, each with a different character. We recommend several ways of exploring the city, from a Cold War walking tour to a bike tour to see all the must-see sights in a simple and easy way. An exploration of the long and volatile history of Jewish culture in the city is eye-opening as Jewish life in Berlin has been meticulously documented. Many of the city’s art and culture museums offer unforgettable glimpses into history. Potsdam offers the perfect diversion for an afternoon, and Sanssouci Palace, with its well-tended gardens, is a beautiful reminder of the city’s impressive past. The past comes alive in Berlin, but the present is very much alive as well.
Day 1
Day 1 - Arrival in Berlin
Welcome to Berlin! You will be met at the Berlin Brandenburg airport and have transport arranged to your centrally located accommodation.
Enjoy a Cup of Hot Chocolate
Day 2
Day 2 - Your First Full Day in Berlin
Trabi Safari Group Tour
Drive through Berlin in the unofficial car of the DDR. Squeeze yourself behind the wheel of a the comically idiosyncratic Trabant and drive around the German capital, seeing its sights and getting a Trabant driver's license to take home.
Winter in the City
Ice skating is great fun for kids and adults alike. You will find an open-air ice rink which is surrounded by enchanting Christmas light installations at the Christmas Garden, Winterwelt at Potsdamer Platz, and between a Ferris wheel and Neptune Fountain at the Christmas market just west of Alexanderplatz. Take in the Christmas lights and other decorations with a stroll down Under den Linden or Kurfurstendamm (better known as Ku'damm). Sitting comfortably in a vintage theatre, watching silent films with live orchestra music is just the perfect way of escaping the cold. Babylon Berlin opens daily and still uses a preserved cinema organ. There, you can catch free silent films at midnight on Saturdays.
Day 3
Day 3 - Your Second Full Day in Berlin
Private Christmas Markets Tour
Berlin's Christmas Markets are a delightful way to spend an evening, with their mulled wine, and endless stalls featuring handmade crafts and artisanal goodies, like candles, festive decorations, wood carvings, and more. Perhaps even more tempting than the shopping is all of the delightful food, such as fragrant roasted chestnuts, savory sausages, delectable chocolate-covered fruits and nuts, and hot drinks. Let's not forget Feuerzangenbowle, a photogenic sight in which a rum-soaked sugarloaf is set aflame, directly above a bowl of mulled wine (the name translates to "fire tongs bowl"). Get into the holiday spirit while discovering Berlin Christmas markets with your local guide!
Over 80 Christmas Markets to Try
Berlin wins with numbers. The German capital has over 80 Christmas markets, several dozen of which are open at any given moment. Many are within walking distance of each other. We recommend the market at the Gendarmenmarkt, or the market in front of the Rotes Rathaus (Red City Hall), with its Ferris wheel and ice rink surrounding the impressive Neptunbrunnen (Neptune Fountain). Some of the city's best markets are only held for one weekend, so our local representative will give further recommendations based on your travel dates.
Day 4
Day 4 - Traveling to Dresden by Private Transfer
1 Night in Dresden
1 Night in Dresden
1 Night in Dresden
Dresden has had one of the most volatile histories of any city in Europe, being almost totally reduced to rubble in World War II. The city today is a unique combination of remembered and honored history and a vibrant, entertaining present. There are several historical buildings throughout the city that attest to the destruction here, but Dresden has rejuvenated itself since World War II, and today is one of Germany’s most tourist-friendly cities, with an enchanting energy and entertainment all year round. Famous for its Christmas markets, Dresden also has plenty to offer in the warmer months, from museums and memorials, to intriguing new architecture, pleasant parks, and nearby destinations for day trips. History comes alive everywhere you look in Dresden, and we highly recommend taking a closer look at the city’s museums and the traces of the past in the architecture. The city also has a rich cultural program, with numerous galleries and concert taking place quite regularly. You can certainly sample hearty German cuisine here, as well as more modern Continental flavours. You’ll love exploring this lovely city and the surrounding region.
Dresden has had one of the most volatile histories of any city in Europe, being almost totally reduced to rubble in World War II. The city today is a unique combination of remembered and honored history and a vibrant, entertaining present. There are several historical buildings throughout the city that attest to the destruction here, but Dresden has rejuvenated itself since World War II, and today is one of Germany’s most tourist-friendly cities, with an enchanting energy and entertainment all year round. Famous for its Christmas markets, Dresden also has plenty to offer in the warmer months, from museums and memorials, to intriguing new architecture, pleasant parks, and nearby destinations for day trips. History comes alive everywhere you look in Dresden, and we highly recommend taking a closer look at the city’s museums and the traces of the past in the architecture. The city also has a rich cultural program, with numerous galleries and concert taking place quite regularly. You can certainly sample hearty German cuisine here, as well as more modern Continental flavours. You’ll love exploring this lovely city and the surrounding region.
Day 4
Day 4 - Arrival in Dresden
Welcome to Dresden! Your private driver will bring you directly to your accommodation in the center of Dresden.
Dresden Private Walking Tour
Day 5
Day 5 - Traveling to Nuremberg by Private Transfer
Germany's Christmas Hometown
Dresden is the home to many of Germany’s Christmas traditions, and its oldest Christmas market: the Striezelmarkt. Here, you can find traditional wooden Christmas crafts. Be sure to visit the Christmas Arch, with its candles and ornate figurines representing the decorations placed on mine entrances. If you are into music, enjoy an evening in the Baroque ambience of the impressive Marble Hall in the Zwinger. During a festive Christmas concert, listen to the Dresden Residenz Orchestra play music by Vivaldi, Bach and Mozart. See our blog for plenty more details.
Today you will leave from Dresden and travel to Nuremberg. A driver will pick you up from your accommodation at your preferred departure time. The drive takes about 3.5 hours, depending on the traffic. If you'd like, we can arrange a stop along the way in Bamberg for an additional fee.
2 Nights in Nuremberg
2 Nights in Nuremberg
2 Nights in Nuremberg
Nuremberg in northern Bavaria is famous for its well-preserved medieval architecture and delicious local food. Head to the Old Town to see its houses, stone towers, and fortifications, and to marvel at the Schöner Brunnen ("Beautiful Fountain") located in the "Hauptmarkt" main square. Kaiserburg castle is the most famous place to visit here, with its impressive insight into the city's history. But, there is so much more to Nuremberg; this is a lively modern city with lots of interesting museums, different festivals and events and a great variety of international cuisine. Even among Germans, the city is known for its beer, sausages, and gingerbread, so come hungry!
Nuremberg in northern Bavaria is famous for its well-preserved medieval architecture and delicious local food. Head to the Old Town to see its houses, stone towers, and fortifications, and to marvel at the Schöner Brunnen ("Beautiful Fountain") located in the "Hauptmarkt" main square. Kaiserburg castle is the most famous place to visit here, with its impressive insight into the city's history. But, there is so much more to Nuremberg; this is a lively modern city with lots of interesting museums, different festivals and events and a great variety of international cuisine. Even among Germans, the city is known for its beer, sausages, and gingerbread, so come hungry!
Day 5
Day 5 - Arrival in Nuremberg
Upon arriving in Nuremberg, your driver will bring you directly to your accommodation.
Cherish the Christkindlesmarkt
Nuremberg's old town hosts one of Germany's largest, oldest, and most famed Christmas markets: the Christkindlesmarkt. It's hard to think of things you can't find in its 180 booths, from everyday objects (such as nails, hammers, and faucets) made of chocolate, to marzipan potatoes. We recommend the city’s famed short bratwurst (Nürnberger Rostbratwurst) and gingerbread (Lebkuchen). With its central location, near the river and Church of Our Lady (Frauenkirche), this market is hard to miss.
Day 6
Day 6 - Your First Full Day in Nuremberg
Nuremberg Old Town Private Walking Tour
The best way to be introduced to a city is a private walking tour. The prosperous city of Nuremberg provided the ideal foundation for cultural and intellectual life and was a center of economic activity. Even today numerous buildings and monuments reflect its former place within the Holy Roman Empire of the German Nation. All your questions will be answered during this walking tour which offers a journey through Nuremberg's rise to greatness, providing historical background and insights in a fun and informative format. The guide will also introduce you to Nuremberg's world famous Lebkuchen and Bratwurst, two tasty local snacks.
Bratwurst and Gingerbread
Day 7
Day 7 - Traveling to Rothenburg by Private Transfer
Your private driver will pick you up at your accommodation in Nuremberg and bring you directly to your centrally located Rothenburg accommodation.
1 Night in Rothenburg
1 Night in Rothenburg
1 Night in Rothenburg
Sitting on the banks of the Tauber river, Rothenburg is a German medieval go-to, picturesque and vivid, a true throwback to some other times. This walled town used to be one of the biggest places in Germany during Middle Ages, and has kept its charm to this day. Although small in size and population, Rothenburg is home to many festivals and events, so there is a good chance you'll stumble upon one or two while there. Photos do not really do justice to the town; its beauty and atmosphere inspired many German artists, writers and painters and it is known as the most romantic place in Germany.
Sitting on the banks of the Tauber river, Rothenburg is a German medieval go-to, picturesque and vivid, a true throwback to some other times. This walled town used to be one of the biggest places in Germany during Middle Ages, and has kept its charm to this day. Although small in size and population, Rothenburg is home to many festivals and events, so there is a good chance you'll stumble upon one or two while there. Photos do not really do justice to the town; its beauty and atmosphere inspired many German artists, writers and painters and it is known as the most romantic place in Germany.
Day 7
Day 7 - Arrival in Rothenburg
Upon arriving in Rothenburg, your driver will bring you directly to your accommodations.
Night Watchman Private Tour
A unique way to experience this picturesque medieval town, join a night watchman on his patrol, as he ensures a calm night.
Day 8
Day 8 - Traveling to Munich by Private Transfer
Experience a Medieval Winter Wonderland
Rothenburg is a delight at any time of year, but in winter, the snow turns its spires and rooftops into a living Christmas card. Every year, the narrow and winding streets and the squares around the Rothenburg Town Hall are lined with stalls where you can find everything your heart desires: old German Christmas pastries, mulled wine, large and small handcrafted treasures, souvenirs, and gifts.
Today you will leave trade Rothenburg ob der Tauber for Munich. A driver will pick you up at your accommodations and take you on the Romantic Road. En route, you will stop in two charming medieval towns - Nördlingen and Dinkelsbühl. The transfer takes about five hours and 30 minutes, including the stops. Please note that this transfer does not include a guide. Our local representative will be available to provide you with recommendations for these two towns.
2 Nights in Munich
2 Nights in Munich
2 Nights in Munich
With its traditional beer halls, designer shops, trendy restaurants and international business, Munich is a mix of old and new, German and cosmopolitan. Largely rebuilt after World War II, the city still retains its old world charm, even in the midst of expansion and modernization. You’ve probably heard of the city’s world famous Oktobertfest, a once-in-a-lifetime party dedicated to that incredible Bavarian beer along with some of the local delicacies, including tasty schnitzel. But there’s much more to Munich than drinking, and on your holiday you’ll have the chance to discover the best this charming city has to offer. Don’t miss out on the beer halls and the breweries, but be sure to get off the beaten path to discover a Munich of your own. Much of the city’s past centers around World War II, and there are several ways you can explore this chapter of Munich’s history, including a day trip to the Dachau concentration camp and a special tour focusing on Hitler and the local activities of the Third Reich. Munich is also a center of industry and there is nowhere better to experience this than BMW World. Moving slightly farther afield, Neuschwanstein Castle makes the perfect day trip, perched high in the hills over a verdant valley. Munich’s variety means there’s more than enough to satisfy even the most diverse groups of travelers. Let your curiosity guide you as you explore this unique German city.
With its traditional beer halls, designer shops, trendy restaurants and international business, Munich is a mix of old and new, German and cosmopolitan. Largely rebuilt after World War II, the city still retains its old world charm, even in the midst of expansion and modernization. You’ve probably heard of the city’s world famous Oktobertfest, a once-in-a-lifetime party dedicated to that incredible Bavarian beer along with some of the local delicacies, including tasty schnitzel. But there’s much more to Munich than drinking, and on your holiday you’ll have the chance to discover the best this charming city has to offer. Don’t miss out on the beer halls and the breweries, but be sure to get off the beaten path to discover a Munich of your own. Much of the city’s past centers around World War II, and there are several ways you can explore this chapter of Munich’s history, including a day trip to the Dachau concentration camp and a special tour focusing on Hitler and the local activities of the Third Reich. Munich is also a center of industry and there is nowhere better to experience this than BMW World. Moving slightly farther afield, Neuschwanstein Castle makes the perfect day trip, perched high in the hills over a verdant valley. Munich’s variety means there’s more than enough to satisfy even the most diverse groups of travelers. Let your curiosity guide you as you explore this unique German city.
Day 8
Day 8 - Arrival in Munich
Upon arriving in Munich, your driver will bring you directly to your accommodation.
Winter in the City
In winter, the Nymphenburg Palace's canal becomes Munich’s longest curling track. Beginners and experts can both come here. Have fun ice-skating at Stachus (Karlsplatz). At the "Munchner Eiszauber" open-air rink, you can skate into the evening. Things are quieter in the Eis- und Funsportzentrum West and in the Eissportzentrum Ost, which open as soon as it's cold enough. You can also skate around the Olympia-Eissportzentrum. As soon as there is enough snow on the ground, the tobogganing starts on numerous hills in Munich, such as at the Luitpoldpark and Westpark.
Day 9
Day 9 - Your First Full Day in Munich
Christmas Markets and Trams
If you'd like to explore the Christmas Markets in Munich with somebody local, we recommend taking a guided tour. Discover the sights and hidden corners, and look behind the scenes of cozy Christmas market stalls. Warm up with a glass of "Glühwein" and taste some traditional Christmas delicacies.
Feast Your Eyes in the Alte Pinakothek
Munich is a fantastic city for art and culture lovers. With over 80 museums – many of which are just €1 on Sundays – as well as art galleries, you can explore anything from ancient sculpture to cutting-edge contemporary design. Among them is the Alte Pinakothek, one of the world's oldest art galleries, dating back to 1836. This museum was intended by King Ludwig I to serve as the world's largest museum, as echoed by its impressive castle-like exterior.
Day 10
Day 10 - Departure Day
Based on your departure time, a driver will pick you up from your accommodation and take you to Munich's airport.
What's Included
Here are all the services provided as part of your complete vacation package. See what every JayWay trip includes.
Please let us know if you'd like to upgrade any transfers or add any additional tours or excursions to your itinerary.
Berlin
Dresden
Nuremberg
Rothenburg
Munich
package excludes:
- Flights to and from Europe.
- Tips for Tour Guides, Drivers and Local Reps.
- Meals (other than breakfast if included in room rate and meals listed as included in food tours and excursions, unless explicitly stated otherwise).
- Parking fees for your Rental Car (if you are booking one with us) unless otherwise indicated. Some hotels provide free parking facilities.
- Travel Insurance. See the insurance link on our website
A JayWay vacation is more than the sum of its parts. Our team work tirelessly to ensure your experience is memorable for all the right reasons. Your trip is personalized to maximize your enjoyment. You're taken care of every step of the way.
A Travel Advisor who speaks your language
We will make sure that all your requirements and interests are taken into account in preparing your itinerary.A totally tailored itinerary for your vacation
Your trip is customized for you by an experienced trip planner and an expert on the region.A choice of hand-picked hotels and excursions
We've personally inspected and tested all the hotels and local tour providers we work with to ensure quality.Detailed pre-trip preparation to make the most of every day
Your Europe-based Tour Manager will be in touch by email and phone a month before you arrive to finalize timings.On-trip Concierge Service to smooth out any bumps in the road
Your tour manager is at your service throughout your journey. We'll provide a local SIM so you can stay connected.Personalized Guest Page to make sure you're not missing out
Packed with detailed information and recommendations curated by locals on the best things to do, see and eat.Glowing Reviews from Our Guests
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Itinerary : Nuremberg, Munich, Rothenburg, Heidelberg, Frankfurt
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