Christmas in Europe: 8 Days Exploring Germany & Austria’s Best Markets
A Holiday Tradition Like No Other
Getting tired of the same routine every holiday season? Try out Gate 1’s 8 Day Christmas Markets of Germany & Austria guided tour this winter! Explore multiple Christmas markets in numerous cities, you’ll never get tired of the variety.
The appeal of a Christmas market is getting to experience a festive atmosphere, combined with a community experience that equals a fantastic time. Try numerous different foods such as Bratwurst, Kartoffelpuffer (potato pancakes), and Käsespätzle. Also make sure you grab a sweet treat too! You can pick from Stollen (fruit bread), Lebkuchen (gingerbread cookies), and Crêpes. Wash all of that done with Glühwein (mulled wine), Eierpunsch (egg punch), or if you want a non-alcoholic drink, choose Kinderpunsch (mulled punch).
Germany’s Enchanting Christmas Markets
Begin your journey in Munich, you’ll have the opportunity to tour the city and view major sights, such as the Nymphenburg Palace, former summer palace of the Wittelsbach dynasty. Then continue to the iconic Olympic Stadium to view many of the famous squares, including the delightful Marienplatz, where you can see the Glockenspiel clock with its playful mechanical figures. Here is where you will explore the largest and most famous Christmas market in the city. Later that afternoon, you’re free to further explore over 20 Christmas markets located throughout Munich.
The next day, travel to Nuremberg to visit Germany’s most famous Christmas market, Nuremberg Christkindlesmarkt, which includes nearly 180 wooden stalls richly decorated with traditional wares. The market has earned the colorful title “Little Town from Wood and Cloth”. Later in the day you will have free time to explore, consider sampling a glass of mulled wine and local roasted sausage.
Austria’s Old-World Charm
Cross into Austria to discover Vienna, the former center of the Habsburg Empire. Once you’ve arrived, get ready to see the lively Christkindlmarkt at the Rathausplatz Christmas market set against the backdrop of the famous Ringstrasse and view the State Opera House, Parliament, and City Hall. Travelers who book the 8 Day Christmas Markets of Germany & Austria guided tour by Gate 1 can participate in our optional add-on guided tours and experiences. For example, the first night in Vienna, you can attend an optional Mozart & Strauss Recital, featuring the classical masterpieces of Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart and Johann Strauss. And the second night, join an optional tour to Bratislava, the capital of Slovakia. The city has undergone a major revitalization and now flourishes as one of Europe’s newest capitals.
Tips for Your Holiday Journey
When traveling during the holiday season, always remember to bundle up in warm layers, as winter temperatures in this region tend to be on the colder side. Typical temperatures fall between 30-40 degrees Fahrenheit during the day, and often drop between freezing at night. Also, make sure to bring cash! Many vendors prefer it over card. Bring an extra bag for souvenirs too, you never know what you’ll want to buy, whether it’s a personal gift for yourself or a surprise vacation gift for family when you return home. And to make the most of your Gate 1 guided tour, consider trying all optional tours that are provided. These types of tours aren’t just in Austria; you can also participate in them in Germany as well.
Conclusion
Whether it’s viewing historic cities, stunning Christmas markets, or trying optional tours, Germany & Austria have something for you!
Ready to experience it all? Click here to browse Gate 1’s full selection of Germany, Switzerland, and Austria’s guided tours and start planning your unforgettable journey! Or if you’re just interested in the holiday season, click here to view Gate 1’s full selection of Holiday Tours.
