Interested in visiting Germany during the winter season?
Germany's Christmas markets are the definition of a winter wonderland, offering a perfect blend of holiday charm, rich tradition, and seasonal treats.
From twinkling lights and snowy nights to mulled wine and handmade gifts, each market captures the magic of the holiday season.
This 5-day itinerary will provide you:
The best outline for experiencing Germany's most enchanting Christmas markets, from the bustling streets of Frankfurt to the romantic squares of Schwäbisch Hall.
Information on nearby hotels recommendations, transportation and other activities you should try during your stay.
Direct links to book your activities, hotel, transportation and market maps/locations to make planning super easy for you!
Whether you're a first-time visitor or a seasoned traveler, this itinerary promises an unforgettable holiday adventure through Germany's most festive settings.
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Day 1 - Frankfurt
12-3PM - Start at Frankfurt (Main) Hauptwache train station, the Hauptwache Christmas Market is at street level. This area has lots of international cuisines you can try, as well as traditional German market foods.
3-6PM - Walk south on Liebfrauenstraße towards the Liebfrauenberg Christmas Market. This area has lots of unique gifts to bring back home.
It will take some time to explore all the stands! Enjoy the scenery and energy of the market.
6-10PM - Continue south, walking towards the river, and spend the evening at the iconic Römer Christmas Market. This is the best area in Frankfurt for a beautiful Christmas lights display and great glühwein. Theres also a huge, beautiful Christmas tree.
Frankfurt Hotels we recommend are below.
Great for young professionals and solo travelers.
For a scenic train ride from Frankfurt to Cologne, alongside the Rhine River, take the ICE 928 train!
Day 2 - Cologne
12-3PM - Start at the Cologne Cathedral Christmas Market, where they have live music and vendors all day long.
3-6PM - Head back to your hotel and rest, or enjoy some shopping at the nearby markets, Alter Markt and Heumarkt.
6-10PM - Enjoy dinner, dessert, drinks and a show at the Heinzel's Christmas Market. With live performers, breathtaking light displays, and a ferris wheel, this market has a little something for everyone.
Day 3 - Cologne
12-9pm - All that walking around and through Christmas Markets will make your body and muscles super sore, so enjoy a day at the world-renowned Claudius Therme Thermal Spa. A day pass is only $30, for unlimited access to the saunas, indoor, and outdoor pools all day long!
Cologne Hotels we recommend are below.
Great for professionals, couples and solo travelers. Located close to train station.
To take a train from Cologne to Schwäbisch Hall,
Day 4 - Schwäbisch Hall
12-3PM - Arrive in Schwäbisch Hall and get settled at your hotel.
3-6PM - Explore the history of Schwäbisch Hall at Hohenlohe Open Air Museum, and step back in time to walk in the world of German settlers that inhabited the region.
This is one of the most beautiful towns in southern Germany during Christmas. Enjoy the scenery and snowfall!
6-10PM - Spend the evening at St. Michaels Christmas Market, where you can find some of the most unique Christmas gifts without the tourist price tag, delicious meats, and best glühwein I've had in Germany!
Schwäbisch Hall Hotels we recommend are below.
In the quieter part of town, close to multiple bus lines.
To take a train from Schwäbisch Hall to Frankfurt,
Day 5 - Frankfurt
12-3PM - Arrive back in Frankfurt to complete your tour of Germany's enchanting Christmas Markets.
3-10PM - Revisit the cluster of Christmas markets found at Frankfurt (Main) Hauptwache, Liebfrauenberg, and Römerberg. If you walk along Hauptwache, you'll discover small mini markets on the cross streets featuring DJ's, dance floors, ice skating rinks, and more!
Hopefully you found this 5-day itinerary helpful in planning your visit to Germany for the Christmas season. 🎄
We truly hope you find the Christmas Market experience as amazing as we do, and if you're looking for a more detailed travel guide on Christmas in Germany (like what to pack, what foods to try, cultural tips and more) Germany Christmas Markets Complete Travel Guide!
Christmas joy and togetherness! Just what we all need!