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Germany Christmas Markets by Train: Berlin to Munich
10 Days
4 Stops
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Trip curated by Roman Karin
ExpertThe single night in Dresden is the editorial call that separates this circuit from a standard Christmas market loop, and it's the stop I'd always keep. The Striezelmarkt at the Altmarkt dates to 1434, and the Frauenkirche and baroque skyline behind the stalls create a backdrop no other city on this route can match. Nuremberg's Christkindlesmarkt before the official opening hour, when stall holders are setting out gingerbread and Zwetschgenmännle figurines, gives you the market at its most atmospheric. My tip for Munich: the Tollwood Winter Festival at Olympiapark runs parallel to the Old Town markets and draws a completely different crowd, offering the city's most undervisited seasonal experience.
The single night in Dresden is the editorial call that separates this circuit from a standard Christmas market loop, and it's the stop I'd always keep. The Striezelmarkt at the Altmarkt dates to 1434, and the Frauenkirche and baroque skyline behind the stalls create a backdrop no other city on this route can match. Nuremberg's Christkindlesmarkt before the official opening hour, when stall holders are setting out gingerbread and Zwetschgenmännle figurines, gives you the market at its most atmospheric. My tip for Munich: the Tollwood Winter Festival at Olympiapark runs parallel to the Old Town markets and draws a completely different crowd, offering the city's most undervisited seasonal experience.
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Berlin
Day 1 - 3
No tour of Germany would be complete without a visit to its vibrant capital which, despite its turbulent history, finds itself at the cutting-edge of European art, architecture, culture, entertainment and nightlife. There is an array of fascinating sites to interest history buffs including the previous site of the Berlin wall, Museum Island which contains the magnificent Berlin Cathedral, the formidable Brandenburg Gate and the eerily haunting Holocaust Museum. However, even non-historians will find plenty to do in the hip, funky neighborhoods emerging in the former Eastern part of the city where the streets are strewn with trendy eateries, quirky boutiques, innovative art galleries and thriving nightclubs. Energetic travellers can enjoy a cycle along the Spree riverfront or a stroll through one the city’s wonderful parks. No matter your preference, there is always plenty to see and do in this fascinating, dynamic, modern city.
Your accommodation
Pullman Berlin Schweizerhof
The Pullman Berlin Schweizerhof is placed in Berlin with several of the city's highlights being within walking distance. The 377 guestrooms provide views of the park, city or courtyard and feature a TV, coffee and tea facilities, a minibar and a desk. The rooms also include a bathroom with a bathtub or shower and Bigelow amenities. The on-site restaurant and bar serves international cuisine and drinks in an elegant atmosphere. While staying here, guests can enjoy the convenience of 24-hour room service and relax in the heated indoor swimming pool.
Your activity
Half Day Berlin City Tour
Explore Germany’s capital city with a sightseeing tour! Your driver & guide will introduce you to the main sights of the city, like the famous boulevard Kurfürstendamm, Kaiser Wilhelm Memorial Church, the Tiergarten, the Brandenburg Gate, the boulevard “Unter den Linden”, the beautiful Gendarmenmarkt, Museum Island, Castle Charlottenburg. It's up to you if you want to stop at a place to get more information or take a photo, or if you just want to drive past it.
Dresden
Day 4
Dresden, the capital of Saxony, is often referred to as the ‘Florence of the Elbe’ alluding to both its picturesque riverine location on the banks of the River Elbe and its role as a centre for arts and beautiful architecture. Almost entirely destroyed following the fall of the Reich in 1945, Dresden has undergone a remarkable renaissance - its main monuments and former GDR buildings have been tastefully restored and its historic centre pedestrianised. The most famous symbol of reconstruction is the Dresden Frauenkirche Church with its magnificent baroque dome dominating the city centre. The city features panoramic terraces, ceremonial staircases, huge squares adorned with statues of solemn-faced saints and monarchs and a spectacular cityscape characterised by countless spires, towers and domes.
Your accommodation
NH Collection Dresden Altmarkt
The NH Collection Dresden Altmarkt hotel is right at the heart of Dresden, on the market square. Convenient for tourists and business travelers, the area’s attractions, activities and transport services are within walking distance of the hotel. Guest accommodations range from premium rooms to suites, with many overlooking the Altmarkt. Hotel facilities include an onsite restaurant, bar, wellness area, gym and Sky TV.
Your activity
Christmas Market Walking Tour
During the Advent season, Dresden turns into a magical Christmas city, with festive cheer filling the streets and squares. More than ten traditional Christmas markets are spread throughout the city, creating a joyful atmosphere at every turn.
On this tour, a knowledgeable local guide will share the history of Dresden alongside the stories behind its much-loved Christmas markets. You’ll explore several seasonal highlights, including the picturesque market at the Frauenkirche and the world-famous Striezelmarkt. Dating back to the 15th century, it is one of the oldest Christmas markets in the world and takes its name from the “Striezel,” a classic holiday cake now better known as Stollen—an essential seasonal treat you won’t want to miss.
Nuremberg
Day 5 - 6
Resting on the banks of the Pegnitz river, the Bavarian city of Nuremberg is a picturesque German city covered with half-timbered houses, imposing forts, stone towers and Gothic churches, all contained within a medieval city wall and presided over by a magnificent imperial castle. Must-see sights include the extensive Germanisches Nationalmuseum, housing a large collection of items relating to German culture from prehistoric times through to the present day. The Hauptmarkt is where you will find the Schöner Brunnen, an exquisite gilded fountain with tiers of sculptured figures. Not-to-be-missed is the remarkable Imperial Castle of Kaiserburg. With all of its medieval charm and intriguing historical significance, Nuremberg has developed into one of Bavaria’s most popular destinations, particularly over the Christmas season when the city explodes with festivity as it hosts one of the world’s most spectacular Christmas markets.
Your accommodation
Hotel Am Jakobsmarkt
Hotel Am Jakobsmarkt is located in the southern part of Nuremberg. The hotel boasts 66 comfortably designed rooms and suites, all equipped with free Wi-Fi, private bathrooms, hairdryers, minibars, and TVs. After a relaxing night, guests can start the morning with a delicious breakfast buffet on-site. Other services and faciltiies include a 24-hour reception, free parking, a bar, room service, and laundry services.
Your activity
Christmas market walking tour
Let yourself be enchanted by the festive and magical atmosphere of the city. With a history spanning several centuries, the traditional Christmas market offers countless things to see, experience, and enjoy.
During this tour, you will discover the history of the Christkindlesmarkt and learn why the “Nürnberger Christkind” has become the iconic symbol of Christmas in Nuremberg.
Be sure to taste the famous Glühwein (mulled wine) and the renowned Lebkuchen (gingerbread), which has been baked in Nuremberg for over 600 years. At the Christmas market, you’ll find them in many sizes and varieties, making them the perfect souvenirs for loved ones back home.
Munich
Day 7 - 10
Munich, the lively capital of Bavaria and the third-largest city in Germany, lies on the banks of the River Isar. A modern hub complete with state-of-the-art skyscrapers and an exciting nightlife scene, the city revels simultaneously in its traditional customs and its sense of innovation. Some of the phenomenal historical attractions include spectacular Schloss Nymphenburg and the grand Residenz Museum, along with countless others. Nicknamed ‘city of art and beer’, Munich is strewn with impressive and diverse galleries (top choices include the Kunstareal Art Quarter and other-worldly Pinakothek der Moderne) and offers sublime beer-tasting opportunities in a variety of wonderful beer houses and gardens. Locals claim this is the culinary capital of the country - make sure to visit the Viktualienmarkt and dedicate some time to the metropolis’ restaurants. Gorgeous parks, jaw-dropping sports venues, and world-famous festivals (including legendary Octoberfest) complete the package.
Your accommodation
King’s Hotel First Class
King’s Hotel First Class combines the charm of Bavarian royal tradition with the luxury of modern facilities. The privately owned and operated boutique hotel in the center of Munich features a stylish lobby with historic wood paneling, ornate framed paintings and magnificent chandeliers. Hotel facilities and services include beautifully furnished guest rooms and suites, a cozy fireplace lounge with internet corner, as well as the inviting restaurant and bar.
Your activity
Munich Beer & Food tour
Bavaria is famous around the world for its beer, and Munich sits right at the heart of this rich brewing tradition — far beyond Oktoberfest alone. On this guided shared tour, you’ll dive into the city’s beer culture by visiting traditional breweries, lively beer gardens, historic beer halls, and authentic beer cellars. Along the way, you’ll sample some of Bavaria’s finest brews while discovering the stories, traditions, and craftsmanship behind them.
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Excellent
Why plan with an expert?
200+
Plan with professionals who are explorers themselves.
34+ hours of time saved
Our experts plan and book for you.
15+ Bookings managed
Everything is bundled in one place and perfectly planned.
7+ Transfers coordinated
For optimal transport and comfort.
Excellent
Itinerary inspiration
Berlin to Dresden to Nuremberg to Munich — the Christmas market trail moves south through Germany in a sequence where each city adds a different character to the Advent tradition. Berlin's markets are spread across the city's great public spaces. Dresden's Striezelmarkt, one of the oldest in Germany, fills the Altmarkt with a particular intensity of tradition. Nuremberg's Christkindlesmarkt below the Gothic church on the Hauptmarkt is the one most visitors have in mind when they imagine a German Christmas market. Munich's Marienplatz version closes the journey with Bavarian directness and one of the more convivial atmospheres of the four.
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One tip I always pass along for Nuremberg: the Nuremberg gingerbread — Lebkuchen — is the city's most significant culinary tradition, and buying it directly from one of the bakery stalls in the Handwerkerhof, the medieval craftsmen's courtyard near the station, is a different experience from the mass-produced versions elsewhere. The stalls there are run by families who have been making the same recipes for generations.
Day 1–3: Berlin
Hotel: Pullman Berlin Schweizerhof
Three nights with the half-day city tour, the Christmas market walking tour, and the Potsdam excursion. The Potsdam palaces and gardens earn their place even in winter — the Sanssouci estate in the cold is less visited than in summer, and the empty terraces and the formal hedges without leaf cover have their own particular quality.
Day 4: Dresden
Hotel: NH Collection Dresden Altmarkt
One night with the Christmas market walking tour and time in the historic center. The Striezelmarkt is the oldest in Germany, and the Altmarkt at dusk — the church spires above and the market stalls below, mulled wine and Stollen in hand — is the most archetypal expression of the German Christmas market tradition.
Day 5–6: Nuremberg
Hotel: Hotel Am Jakobsmarkt
Two nights with the Christmas market walking tour and time in the Old Town. The Hauptmarkt market below the Frauenkirche is the most photographed, but the residential alleys behind the city walls — where smaller neighborhood markets fill the courtyards — are the more characterful discovery.
Day 7–10: Munich
Hotel: King's Hotel First Class
Three nights with the beer and food tour, the Neuschwanstein and Linderhof premium excursion, and the Christmas market walking tour. The Neuschwanstein excursion in winter has its own appeal — the castle above the Bavarian Alps in snow, approached through the forest road with fewer summer visitors, is the strongest version of a site that tends to exceed expectations regardless of season.
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