Hey there travel enthusiasts and welcome to my post where we will check out my 5 best winter destinations in Germany for some warm glühwein this year. From charming Christmas markets to snow-covered mountains, Germany has something for every winter traveler.
The country’s famous Christmas markets are a must-visit during the winter months, with their twinkling lights, festive music and delicious food and drink. And if you’re looking for a unique winter experience, why not visit one of Germany’s many castles or historic towns? Of hit the ski slopes for some high adrenalin action as well.
Let’s check it all out.
- Berlin’s Winter Wonderland
- Bavaria’s Snowy Peaks and Fairy-Tale Castles
- Black Forest’s Winter Hiking and Spa Retreats
- Dresden’s Baroque Beauty and Christmas Magic
- Hamburg’s Maritime Charm in Winter
Map Of German Winter Destinations
Here is a map with locations of the best destinations to spend in Germany in winter as per below.
Best Winter Destinations in Germany
Now, let’s check out the best things that Germany has to offer in the colder months.
1. Berlin’s Winter Wonderland
If you’re looking for a winter wonderland, Berlin is one of the best German cities to visit in winter. This city is an excellent destination for winter activities with plenty of things to do and see including.
Christmas Markets
As above, one of the best things about visiting Berlin in the winter is the Christmas markets. These markets are a staple of German culture and Berlin has some of the best. You’ll find markets all over the city, but some of the most popular include the Gendarmenmarkt, Alexanderplatz and Charlottenburg Palace.
At these markets, you’ll find all sorts of festive treats including mulled wine, gingerbread and roasted chestnuts. You can also pick up some unique gifts for your loved ones.
Ice Skating at Alexanderplatz
Another great winter activity in Berlin is ice skating. The ice rink at Alexanderplatz is one of the most popular in the city and for good reason. It is surrounded by festive lights and Christmas decorations, making it the perfect place to get into the holiday spirit.
Whether you’re a seasoned skater or a beginner, you’ll have a great time gliding around the rink. Skate rentals are available on-site as well, so you don’t need to worry about bringing your own.
Check out these: 10 Ways to Spend One Day in Berlin
2. Bavaria’s Snowy Peaks and Fairy-Tale Castles
If you’re looking for a winter destination that’s straight out of a fairy tale, look no further than Bavaria. With its snow-capped peaks and charming castles, this region in southern Germany is a winter wonderland that’s sure to enchant you. Some options here include:
Skiing in Garmisch-Partenkirchen
If you’re a fan of skiing or snowboarding, Garmisch-Partenkirchen is the place to be. This picturesque town, located at the foot of the Zugspitze (Germany’s highest mountain), is home to some of the best skiing in the country. With over 60 kilometers of slopes and a variety of runs for all skill levels, Garmisch-Partenkirchen is a great destination for both beginners and experienced skiers alike.
When you’re not on the slopes, be sure to take a stroll through the town’s charming streets. With its traditional Bavarian architecture and cozy cafes, Garmisch-Partenkirchen is the perfect place to warm up after a day on the mountain.
Neuschwanstein Castle
No trip to Bavaria would be complete without a visit to Neuschwanstein Castle. This stunning castle, which served as the inspiration for Disney’s Sleeping Beauty Castle, is perched high on a hill overlooking the picturesque town of Füssen. In the winter months, the castle is surrounded by snow, making it even more magical.
Be sure to take a guided tour of the castle to learn about its fascinating history and see its stunning interiors. And don’t forget to take a walk around the grounds to enjoy the breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains as well.
Book your trip to Germany here!
3. Black Forest’s Winter Hiking and Spa Retreats
If you’re looking for a winter destination that offers both outdoor activities and relaxation, the Black Forest is a great choice. This region in southwestern Germany is known for its beautiful forests, lakes, and mountains, as well as its luxurious spa resorts including:
Feldberg Mountain
One of the best places to go winter hiking in the Black Forest is Feldberg Mountain. This peak is the highest in the region and it offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape. You can take a cable car to the top of the mountain and then explore the trails on foot.
There are several routes to choose from, ranging from easy to challenging and along the way, you’ll see snow-covered trees, frozen waterfalls and maybe even some wildlife.
Baden-Baden Thermal Baths
After a day of hiking, you might want to unwind at one of the Black Forest’s famous thermal baths. Baden-Baden is a town that’s known for its hot springs and there are several spas here that offer a range of treatments.
You can soak in a warm pool, get a massage or try a mud bath. Some of the spas also have saunas and steam rooms which can be a great way to warm up on a cold day.
4. Dresden’s Baroque Beauty and Christmas Magic
If you’re looking for a winter destination that combines stunning Baroque architecture with the magic of Christmas, Dresden should be at the top of your list. Located in the eastern region of Germany, this city is known for its impressive landmarks including the Frauenkirche and Zwinger Palace.
Striezelmarkt
One of the main attractions in Dresden during the winter months is the Striezelmarkt, one of the oldest Christmas markets in Germany. This market dates back to 1434 and is held in the city’s Altmarkt square.
Here, you can find a variety of traditional Christmas treats such as gingerbread, stollen and glühwein (mulled wine). You can also shop for unique gifts, including handcrafted ornaments and toys.
Frauenkirche
Another must-see landmark in Dresden is the Frauenkirche, a stunning Baroque church that was destroyed during World War II and later rebuilt. The church’s dome offers a panoramic view of the city, making it a popular spot for visitors.
Inside the church, you can admire the intricate details of the altar and other decorations as well.
5. Hamburg’s Maritime Charm in Winter
If you’re looking for a winter destination with a unique blend of maritime charm and festive cheer, look no further than Hamburg. This North German city offers a wealth of activities and attractions to explore during the colder months. Things to check out include:
Historic Speicherstadt
One must-visit attraction in Hamburg is the historic Speicherstadt district, which is the largest warehouse district in the world. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is especially enchanting during the winter months, when the red-brick buildings are decorated with twinkling lights.
Take a stroll along the canals and bridges and admire the stunning architecture and reflections in the water. You can also warm up with a cup of hot chocolate or coffee at one of the many cozy cafes in the area.
Miniatur Wunderland
Another must-see attraction in Hamburg is Miniatur Wunderland, the world’s largest model railway. This fascinating exhibit features detailed miniature versions of famous landmarks and cities from around the world, including Hamburg itself.
During the winter months, the exhibit is transformed into a winter wonderland, complete with snow-covered landscapes and festive decorations. It’s a great place to spend a few hours with family or friends, especially if you’re looking to escape the cold weather outside.
Why Visit Germany in Winter?
Winter in Germany is a magical time, with snow-covered landscapes, festive markets and plenty of activities to keep you entertained. Here are a few reasons why you should consider visiting Germany during the winter months.
- Winter Sports – Germany is a paradise for winter sports enthusiasts with many mountains and ski resorts where you can enjoy skiing, snowboarding, ice-skating and more. The Zugspitze Mountain, Germany’s tallest mountain, is home to the country’s best ski resort attracting skiers and snowboarders from all over the world. If you’re not into skiing, you can also try your hand at snowshoeing, tobogganing or even paragliding.
- Christmas Markets – Germany is famous for its Christmas markets, which are a must-see during the winter season. These markets are filled with festive lights, decorations and delicious food and drink. You can find everything from handmade crafts to traditional German sausages and mulled wine. Some of the best Christmas markets can be found in Berlin, Cologne and Munich.
- Winter Wonderland – Germany’s snowy landscapes are a sight to behold during the winter months. The Black Forest, for example, is a winter wonderland with its snow-covered trees, frozen lakes and picturesque villages. You can also visit the Harz Mountains which offer stunning views and plenty of winter activities.
- Cultural Events – Winter in Germany is also a time for cultural events and celebrations. The Berlin International Film Festival, for example, takes place in February and is one of the most prestigious film festivals in the world. The Fasching or Carnival season is also celebrated in many parts of Germany at this time of year with colorful parades and parties.
- Fewer Crowds – Finally, visiting Germany in the winter means you’ll avoid the crowds that flock to the country during the summer months. This means you can enjoy the sights and activities without having to deal with long lines or crowded streets. Plus, you may be able to find better deals on accommodation and travel during the off-season.
Conclusion
There you have it, my 5 best winter destinations in Germany. I hope it has been helpful and as usual, please let me know of your experiences here or if there are any other must do activities that I need to add.
Also, please do not hesitate to comment below if you have any questions, concerns, or corrections or would like me to check anything else out for you.
Until next time.
Have fun
Paul
