Germany is the greatest Christmas trip because of the markets, the handcrafted ornaments, and the overall mood, which are all amazing.
And there is a significant probability that it will snow. So if you are looking for winter holiday romance, Germany’s cities and little villages are hard to top.
While major cities like Nuremberg, Berlin, and Cologne offer fantastic markets, smaller towns typically go all out in terms of decor and general festive enthusiasm.
So, pack your bags, and let’s explore the best places to visit in Germany in winter.
Our Top Picks of the Best Places to Visit in Germany in Winter
We have chosen 5 of the best smaller towns in Germany for you to visit in winter which is perfect for first time visitors to Germany.
From the snow-capped Bavarian Alps to the charming lake towns near modern metropolises like Hamburg and Berlin.
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Using a virtual SIM card means you will have a constant Internet connection that will allow you to swiftly select a restaurant for your festive dinner in Germany.
You can read reviews before experiencing the local cuisine, or use a navigation program to avoid getting lost in the open areas when visiting one of the small quaint towns.
1. Garmisch-Partenkirchen
Garmisch-Partenkirchen is a beautiful town found in the Bavarian Alps with lovely views and friendly winter activities for families.
This is truly one of the best destinations in the country for skiing, providing an assortment of hills of varying difficulty along with sleds, snowshoes, and ice skates.
Despite there being a myriad of breathtaking locations all over the world like the UAE with high-technology buildings, or the USA’s seven wonders of the United States, Germany rightfully takes one of the leading places with its miracles of nature.
Garmisch-Partenkirchen’s most sought-after resort destination point is the Zugspitse, Germany’s tallest mountain.
There is an option for visitors to ride on both cable cars and cog-wheel trains uphill to the top for panoramic views across the surrounding mountain ranges and valleys.
Zugspitze has some of these activities, like skiing, snowboarding, and even an ice sculpture park that includes igloos.
2. Rothenburg ob der Tauber
A wonderful medieval town named Rothenburg ob der Tauber is situated in the Franconia area of Bavaria state in Germany and is considered to be one of the best places to visit in Germany in winter.
Rothenburg ob der Tauber is a city famous for its picturesque old quarter and old architecture.
Probably the most famous monument that people associate with Rothenburg ob der Tauber is its old wall, which was first constructed during the 13th century.
Visitors can walk along the wall with great pleasure as they have views of the town and the country around it. Several of these are in the form of gates and tall towers, like the well-known Rödertor, whose tower is lavishly decorated with carvings and sculptures.
Ice skating is probably one of the most famous activities during the winter in Quedlinburg. During December, January, and February, the outdoor ice rink in the town operates as an exciting and amusing mode of keeping warm during the winter season.
Tourists can also hire skates to ride on the rink and drink hot chocolate and other seasonal food.
3. Quedlinsburg
One of the entertaining winter activities one can do in Quedlinsburg is taking part in the town’s Christmas market. The vendors sell handmade crafts, popular German dishes, and seasonal products.
The children would also enjoy going around in the carousel or having talks with Santa Claus.
Active winter adventurists may also enjoy walking or snowshoeing along the area’s numerous hiking paths and cross-country skies.
It is a charming city in the center of German vineyards, near the Rhine River. The town provides numerous winter activities suitable for family visitors during winters.
4. Rüdesheim am Rhein
If you think about places to visit in Germany in winter, visit the town’s Christmas market that has become one of the most common winter activities in Rüdesheim am Rhein.
Some of the notable events include a market with more than one hundred vendors selling customary items, traditional German food, and decorative stuff.
The kids will certainly enjoy riding in the carousel or talking to Santa Claus.
The second interesting thing done in Rüdesheim am Rhein during winter is riding on a cable car.
It has breathtaking views of the Rhine River and some vineyards, which is why it may be advisable to stop by one of the many cafes and have a hot drink up there.
5. Oberammergau
Oberammergau is a charming Bavarian village that caters to a good assortment of winter fun for the whole family.
A popular activity in the area includes skiing at the nearby ski resort of Kolbensattel with slopes suitable for skiers of varying skill levels. The nearby tracks can also be visited by toboggans and horse-drawn carriages through the wintery streets of the town.
The woodcarving traditions in Oberammergau make it popular for those looking for a traditional souvenir.
With the many wood carving shops around town families can visit and learn how to make a wooden toy to take home.
A typical Christmas market is another event that is held here, where one can buy homemade products and take delight in gingerbread and mulled wine.
Oberammergau provides an ideal mix of outdoor activities as well as cultural entertainment that families can explore while it is cold.
Final Thoughts on the Best Places to Visit in Germany
Germany’s vast landscape is dotted with dozens of attractive villages and towns dating back to the Middle Ages.
The southern region features villages with views of the snow-capped Bavarian Alps, while the northern region has charming lake towns near modern metropolises like Hamburg and Berlin.
These places are available all year, but winter is the best time to enjoy their timeless beauty.
You will feel like you have stepped back in time when medieval structures are coated in snow and brilliant Christmas markets fill the main squares.
The best places to visit in Germany in winter will help you plan a fairy-tale getaway. And stay connected with the simplicity of eSIM cards, delivering smooth travel.
