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Glühwein and Glaciers: A German Winter Adventure with our German Christmas Market Tour
Discover the magic of German Christmas markets without the hassle of planning. Our 9-day rail journey takes you through the heart of Germany’s most enchanting winter wonderlands.
You’ll start in Munich, where the scent of roasted chestnuts and mulled wine fills the air. Then, hop on a quick day trip to charming Augsburg before immersing yourself in the medieval splendor of Nuremberg’s world-famous Christkindlesmarkt. Your adventure concludes in Cologne, home to seven distinct markets set against the backdrop of its iconic cathedral
We’ve handpicked cozy hotels and sorted out your train tickets, so you can focus on what matters: savoring local delicacies, finding one-of-a-kind gifts, and creating memories to last a lifetime. This isn’t a guided tour – it’s your chance to explore at your own pace, chat with locals, and support the artisans who make these markets truly special.
Ready to trade crowded airports for scenic rail journeys and cookie-cutter hotels for authentic German hospitality? Join us for a Christmas market experience that’s as relaxing as it is unforgettable. Let’s make this holiday season one for the books!
What your itinerary will look like:
- Day 1: Arrive in Munich
- Day 2: Explore Munich's Christmas Markets
- Day 3: Day Trip to Augsburg
- Day 4: Munich Christmas Traditions
- Day 5: Travel to Nuremberg
- Day 6: Nuremberg Christmas Traditions
- Day 7: Travel to Cologne
- Day 8: Explore Cologne's Christmas Markets
- Day 9: Depart Cologne
Itinerary with Flexible Activities: You can follow our recommended itinerary to experience the highlights of each destination, or customize it to suit your personal preferences.
Itineraries
Day 1
Arrive in Munich
Welcome to Munich! After checking into your hotel for a four-night stay, head to the heart of the city at Marienplatz. Here, you'll find the main Christkindlmarkt spread out in front of the Neo-Gothic New Town Hall. Admire the towering Christmas tree, sip on some warm Glühwein, and soak in the festive atmosphere. For dinner, try some traditional Bavarian cuisine at one of the nearby restaurants. [Night in Munich]
Day 2
Explore Munich's Christmas Markets
Start your day at the Medieval Christmas Market at Wittelsbacher Platz, enjoying its historical charm. In the afternoon, explore the Christmas Village in the Residenz’s royal courtyard. Later, visit the Tollwood Winter Festival at Theresienwiese, known for its international flair and eco-friendly focus. If you have extra time, explore the city at your leisure. [Night in Munich]
Day 3
Day Trip to Augsburg
Take a short train ride to Augsburg, one of Germany's oldest cities. Explore the charming Augsburg Christkindlesmarkt in front of the Renaissance Town Hall. Don't miss the unique "Engelsspiel" (Angel Play) where figures of angels appear in the windows of the Town Hall. Return to Munich in the evening. [Night in Munich]
Day 4
Munich Christmas Traditions
After enjoying Munich's Christmas markets, today is about discovering the city's cultural gems. Start with a visit to Nymphenburg Palace and its stunning gardens. In the afternoon, explore the art collections at the Alte Pinakothek. As evening approaches, take a stroll through Marienplatz to admire the illuminated New Town Hall. If you wish, end the day with a cozy glass of glühwein at another Christmas Market or a local café. [Night in Munich]
Day 5
Travel to Nuremberg
After checking out of your Munich hotel, take a train to Nuremberg. Upon arrival, check into your hotel for a two-night stay. Start your Nuremberg experience with the world-famous Christkindlesmarkt in the Hauptmarkt square. Don't forget to try the local specialties: Nuremberg sausages and Lebkuchen (gingerbread). [Night in Nuremberg]
Day 6
Nuremberg Christmas Traditions
After your breakfast, begin your day with a visit to the Handwerkerhof (Crafts Yard), a small medieval-style village where you can watch artisans at work. In the afternoon, take a stroll through the atmospheric Old Town, beautifully decorated for the season. Don't miss a visit to the historic Nuremberg Castle, offering panoramic views of the city, and the impressive Frauenkirche (Church of Our Lady) on the Hauptmarkt. End the day exploring the Children's Christmas Market with its traditional merry-go-round and Santa's House. [Night in Nuremberg]
Day 7
Travel to Cologne
Check out of your Nuremberg hotel and catch a train to Cologne. Upon arrival, check into your hotel for a two-night stay. Start your Cologne Christmas market experience at the Cathedral Christmas Market, set against the backdrop of the magnificent Cologne Cathedral. In the evening, visit the Heimat der Heinzel (Home of the Heinzelmännchen - Cologne's legendary house gnomes) at the Alter Markt and Heumarkt. [Night in Cologne]
Day 8
Explore Cologne's Christmas Markets
Today, you can start at the "Christmas Market in the City" at Neumarkt or the Harbor Christmas Market at the Chocolate Museum for a maritime feel. In the afternoon, visit the Angel's Christmas Market or opt for the relaxed atmosphere of the Stadtgarten Market. Alternatively, skip the markets and explore other city sights or just unwind at your hotel. [Night in Cologne]
Day 9
Depart Cologne
On your final morning, take a last stroll along the Rhine promenade, perhaps picking up some last-minute gifts at the Christmas Market in the Stadtgarten. Bid farewell to the enchanting Christmas markets of Germany as you depart back home.
Your rail adventure and hotel package includes:
- Welcome Package: Receive a personalized welcome package upon arrival, including travel essentials and detailed itinerary information to ensure a seamless start to your journey.
- First-Class Rail Travel: Experience the ultimate in comfort and style with first-class rail travel throughout your itinerary. Please note that some regional trains may only offer second-class seating.
- 4-Star Plus Hotel Accommodation: Enjoy luxurious 4-star-plus accommodations in all cities, conveniently located near train stations for easy access and maximum convenience.
- Daily Breakfast: Start each day with a delicious full breakfast, provided at all hotel accommodations, offering a variety of local and international options.
- Airport Transfers: Enjoy hassle-free airport transfers upon arrival and departure, ensuring a smooth and stress-free travel experience.
Your rail adventure and hotel package does not include:
- International Airfare: Flights to and from Europe are not included in the package price. Rail Escape can offer an additional reservation of flights.
- Excursions Activities and Entrance Fees: Any tours, excursions, or activities are not included and may incur additional costs.
- Meals Beyond Breakfast: While a full breakfast is provided daily, lunch, dinner, and any additional meals or snacks are not included and are the guest’s responsibility.
- Local taxes or fees: The packages do not include additional local taxes or fees, such as hotel tourism taxes.
- Personal Expenses: Personal shopping, souvenirs, and additional hotel services (e.g., minibar, laundry, room service) are not covered.
- Tips and Gratuities: Gratuities for hotel staff, guides, and drivers are not included and are at the guest’s discretion.
- Local Transportation: Transportation within cities, such as taxis, buses, and subways, is not included.
Important Notes
- Customs Fees and Duties: Any – if applicable - customs fees or duties for goods purchased while traveling are the responsibility of the traveler.
- Extra Nights: Any additional hotel nights or early check-ins and late check-outs outside the scheduled itinerary will incur extra charges.
- Visa and Passport Fees: Guests are responsible for securing their own visas and any associated costs. Please ensure your passport is valid for at least six months beyond your travel dates.
- Travel Insurance: We highly recommend purchasing travel insurance for your trip. Please arrange this separately, as it is not included in the package.
All our hotel options have been carefully selected, conveniently located near the train station for your comfort.
Munich
Our Included Favourite
25 hours the royal bavarian
Walking distance from the city center
Offers bike rentals
Popular Alternative
Courtyard by Marriott Munich City Center
Family friendly
Fitness center
Luxe Alternative
Sofitel Munich Bayerpost
Munich’s former Bavarian Royal Post Office
Luxury spa
Nurenberg
Our Included Favourite
Sheraton Carlton Hotel Nuernberg
Indoor pool
Family friendly
Luxe Alternative
Novotel Nuernberg Centre Ville
Wellness area with a view over the rooftops of Nuremberg
Family friendly
Cologne
Our Included Favourite
Courtyard by Marriott Cologne
Fitness center
Onsite bar and restaurant