10 Days of Holiday Spirit in Germany's Best Christmas Markets

10 Day Tour of Munich, Nuremberg, Dresden and Berlin

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10 Days 9 Nights

Best Time: Jan-Dec

Christmas Market

History Buffs

Enjoy 10 days of holiday spirit as you explore the best Christmas markets in Germany. You’ll wander the festively decorated markets of Munich, Nuremberg, Dresden, and Berlin, discovering how Germany celebrates and preserves timeless traditions while embracing the magic of the season. You'll take a day trip to charming Rothenburg ob der Tauber, savoring roasted chestnuts in a fairy-tale town that gives itself over to the Christmas experience. You’ll also experience some of Germany’s most impressive history, architecture, and culture, all made easy with your detailed Go Real Travel itinerary and mobile app.

Experience Bavaria's biggest Christmas Markets in Munich and Nuremberg.
Stroll through charming cobblestoned lanes in enchanting Rothenburg ob der Tauber.
Discover the magic of Dresden's Christmas Market, Germany's oldest, filled with lights and carols.
Relax and enjoy scenic winter landscapes as you travel between the cities by train.
See iconic landmarks like the Brandenburg Gate and Berlin Wall on a private guided walk in Berlin.

Experience Bavaria's biggest Christmas Markets in Munich and Nuremberg.
Stroll through charming cobblestoned lanes in enchanting Rothenburg ob der Tauber.
Discover the magic of Dresden's Christmas Market, Germany's oldest, filled with lights and carols.
Relax and enjoy scenic winter landscapes as you travel between the cities by train.
See iconic landmarks like the Brandenburg Gate and Berlin Wall on a private guided walk in Berlin.

Old Town

Architecture

Residence Palace

Castles & Chateaux

Nuremberg Castle

Castles & Chateaux

Old Town

Historic Landmarks

The Albertinum

Museums & Galleries

Church of our Lady

Churches & Monasteries

Dresden Christmas Markets

Street Markets

The Brandenburg Gate

Historic Landmarks

The Berlin Wall

Historic Landmarks

Must see sights

Old Town

Architecture

Residence Palace

Castles & Chateaux

Nuremberg Castle

Castles & Chateaux

Old Town

Historic Landmarks

The Albertinum

Museums & Galleries

Church of our Lady

Churches & Monasteries

Dresden Christmas Markets

Street Markets

The Brandenburg Gate

Historic Landmarks

The Berlin Wall

Historic Landmarks

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$1415

per person

4.8 (365 reviews)

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Day-By-Day Itinerary

Day 1

Arrive Munich

Day 1

Arrive Munich

To Be Determined

Arrival in Munich Airport and Transfer by Taxi or Train

Munich has one main airport, Munich International Airport, where almost all visitors arrive. Taxis are available directly at the terminal exit, or you can arrange a private transfer for added convenience. The cheapest and fastest way to reach central Munich from is by train. The regional "S-bahn" trains delivers you from the airport train station (just follow the signs) directly to Munich's main station (München hbf) in the center of the city, from where you can easily hail a taxi that will be much less expensive than from the airport.

Day 1

Arrive Munich

To Be Determined:

Transfer from Airport

Mid-Day/Afternoon:

Altstadt

Afternoon/Late Afternoon:

Arts District

Early Evening:

Maxvorstadt

Day 1

Arrive Munich

Day 1

Arrive Munich

To Be Determined

Arrival in Munich Airport and Transfer by Taxi or Train

Mid-Day/Afternoon

Exploring Munich's Altstadt (i.e. the Old Town)

Munich boasts a large old town (Altstadt) with many beautiful historic buildings. Sometimes called the world's largest village, it is a perfect place to wander. You will discover many Medieval, Renaissance, and Baroque buildings, as well as several stunning examples of modern architecture. Pleasant cafes, beer halls, cozy restaurants, and great shopping all add to the charming atmosphere.

Afternoon/Late Afternoon

Touring the Museums of Munich's Arts District (Kunstareal)

Munich's Museum Quarter (Kunstareal) has grown continuously over a period of 200 years offering an extraordinary variety of museums with works from Pharaonic Egypt right through to the present day. There are 18 museums and exhibition halls, more than 40 galleries, six internationally renowned universities and numerous cultural institutions all in close proximity and within walking distance of each other.

Early Evening

Dining out in Maxvorstadt

Maxvorstadt is not just Munich’s most central nightlife hotspot, it’s one of the most historically fascinating neighborhoods in all of Bavaria. The area is often called the “Brains of Munich” for its concentration of arts and education centers, including seven universities and several museums and galleries. It’s a lively spot from day to evening to be sure, with a diversity of cozy bars, restaurants, and cafes appealing to the large student population and foreign visitors.

Day 2

Munich

Day 2

Munich

Day 2

Munich

Day 2

Munich

Early Morning/Morning

Tour of the Residence Palace

The Munich Residenz was the seat of Bavaria's Dukes and Kings from the middle ages until 1918. Originally a medieval castle, it was transformed over the centuries into a beautiful palace. Today it is open to the public and you can explore its magnificent interiors, numerous courtyards, and elegant garden. The living quarters of the royal family have been transformed into a museum which provides a fascinating glimpse into the lives of Kings and Queens. You can also peruse numerous jewels, gold objects, and other precious items which are held in the Residenz Schatzkammer (treasury).

11:00 AM - 1:30 PM

Guided Walk Tour of Historic Munich

Munich contains many reminders of a long and varied history but also encompasses the modern features of a strong and vibrant city. The insights of a local help make sense of the traditions, trends, and promises of Bavaria's Capital - sometimes referred to as the city of laptops and lederhosen. On this tour, your guide will show you the highlights of Munich and point out the many hidden treasures.

Afternoon/Late Afternoon

Stroll through the English Garden

The English Garden is one of Europe's largest parks; in fact, it is larger than New York's Central Park. While it is called the "English Garden" after the style of the park, it was actually designed by an American-Englishman and is now a symbol of the very Bavarian city of Munich. The park is a perfect place to escape the city for a long stroll, where you can enjoy the natural scenery and the people watching.

Late Afternoon/Early Evening

Concert or Other Cultural Event in Munich

Munich, as the capital of Bavaria and the third largest city in Germany, is one of the country's leading locations for classical concerts and opera. Classical music lovers can enjoy a wide range of international soloists, conductors, chamber ensembles, and top orchestras, including its own world-class Munich Philharmonic, which attracts top musicians from all over the world. With performance venues such as the National Theater and Cuvilliés Theater, a concert in Munich can be as much a feast for the eyes as for the ears.

Day 3

Munich to Nuremberg

Day 3

Munich to Nuremberg

Day 3

Munich to Nuremberg

Day 3

Munich to Nuremberg

Early Morning/Morning

Visit to Nymphenburg Palace

Only a short tram ride from Munich's city center, you'll find a lovely palace scenically situated amidst a large park. Created as the summer residence of the Bavarian electors, the size, and dimension of the grounds, designed by a student of the Palace of Versailles' landscape designer, is astounding. The main palace building consists of a large villa and two wings of creaking parquet floors and sumptuous period rooms. The palace managed to survive the carpet bombing of the Second World War that destroyed around 80% of the inner city.

12:55 PM

Transfer to Station by Taxi or Public Transport or Walk

Most trains depart from Müchen Hbf station, the largest station in the city. Before spending money on a transfer, be sure to check whether your hotel is within easy walking distance. Also consider that public transport is the cheapest and sometimes fastest option. If staying at a hotel, they can order a reliable taxi. Some private transfers will even help with your bags. Uber is also available for those with the app.

13:54 - 15:02

Rail Journey to Nuremberg

The short but scenic train route from Munich to Nuremberg will take you north through the charming Bavarian countryside, as well as the town of Dachau where the first Nazi concentration camp was infamously located, and the Audi-producing industrial city of Ingolstadt.

3:02 PM

Arrival and Transfer by Taxi or Public Transport

Most trains arrive in Nürnberg Hbf station, the largest station in the city. Before spending money on a transfer, be sure to check whether your hotel is within easy walking distance (many are located very nearby). Also consider that public transport is the cheapest and sometimes fastest option, and the station is the public transport hub of the city, meaning you can easily connect to anywhere in the city. Uber is not yet available in Nuremberg, but taxis are available at all rail stations and are generally honest. Some private transfers even meet you directly on the platform to help with bags.

Late Afternoon/Early Evening

Tour the Lorenz Old Town, Nuremberg's Shopping District

The Old Town to the south of the Pegnitz River is known as the Lorenz Old Town, after the magnificent medieval Church of St. Lorenz. Like the Sebald Old Town to the north, it was also rebuilt after being nearly completely destroyed in Allied air raids in January 1945. While it doesn’t have quite the old world charm found on the other side of the river, it makes up for this with liveliness and activity. This is the true heart of the city for locals, as it is filled with shopping, restaurants, pubs, and other attractions.

Day 4

Nuremberg

Day 4

Nuremberg

Day 4

Nuremberg

Day 4

Nuremberg

Early Morning to Afternoon

Excursion to Rothenburg ob der Tauber

Massive stone walls studded with 42 towers; half-timbered colorful houses with red-tiled roofs; cobblestone streets and flower-filled window boxes: this is Rothenburg ob der Tauber, one of the most fairy-tale towns in all of Europe, and the most popular stop on Germany's famous "Romantic Road". This little slice of storybook heaven is one of the most photographed towns in Europe, with thousands of visitors from all over the world coming to experience its magical atmosphere. If traveling by train, it is located only a little more than an hour from Nuremberg, although you will need to make two connections on the journey.

Afternoon/Late Afternoon

Enjoying Nuremberg's Famous Christmas Markets

Every year, Germany's most famous Christmas Market takes place right in the middle of Nuremberg, on the Hauptmarkt, the central square in the Old Town. A visit is especially enchanting in the evening, when the lights, sounds, and smells of market create a special and festive atmosphere. Nuremberg’s Christmas Market dates back to the beginning of the 17th Century, making it one of Germany’s oldest Christmas Markets. During the Christmas period, Nuremberg is completely transformed as the festively decorated market square fills with over 150 stalls selling traditional handmade wooden goods, toys, festive treats and holiday gifts. Local gifts include the Nuremberg spicy gingerbread, candles and the ‘Nuremberg Plum People’, little figures made from prunes. For families, the nearby Hans Sachs Square offers a Christmas Market for children, offering numerous opportunities for playing, riding the carousel, listening to fairy tales and getting in the Christmas spirit. There are other numerous smaller markets dotted around the city as well. For the grownups, a hot mulled wine will warm you again after your stroll around the Christmas Market. It comes along in a beautiful mug, which is designed especially for the market every year. It’ll be the perfect souvenir for your kitchen cupboard at home! Remember when you buy your gluwein, the cost of the mug is included (normally €2 a mug).

Day 5

Nuremberg to Dresden

Day 5

Nuremberg to Dresden

Day 5

Nuremberg to Dresden

Day 5

Nuremberg to Dresden

Early Morning/Morning

Explore the Sebald Altstadt and Visit the Imperial Castle

With its abundance of half-timbered homes, Gothic churches, and a dramatic castle, Nuremberg was once an ideal representative of Germany’s architectural inheritance. While most of its Old Town was destroyed in World War II, much of it was rebuilt to reflect this pre-war appearance. The beauty and vibrancy of the historic city can still be easily imagined as you shop on the Market Square or explore the narrow lanes of the Old Town, which are lined by brightly painted and steeply gabled half-timbered burgher houses. The impressive castle overlooking the city is also a must see when visiting the Sebalder Altstadt.

3:20 PM

Transfer to Station by Taxi or Public Transport

Most trains depart from Nürnberg Hbf station, the largest station in the city. Before spending money on a transfer, be sure to check whether your hotel is within easy walking distance. Also consider that public transport is the cheapest and sometimes fastest option, and you can easily reach the station from almost anywhere in the city, as it is the public transport hub. Uber is not yet available in Nuremberg, but if staying at a hotel, they can order a reliable taxi. Some private transfers will even help with your bags.

16:04 - 18:10, 18:31 - 19:40

Rail Journey from Nuremberg to Dresden

Your 3.5-hour rail journey to Dresden will pass through the beautiful countryside of the German regions of Franconia, Thuringia, and Saxony, crossing the former border between East and West Germany. You will likely connect trains in the city of Leipzig.

7:40 PM

Arrival and Transfer by Taxi or Public Transport

Most trains arrive in Dresden hbf (i.e. hauptbahnhof, main station) station, the largest station in the city. Some trains also stop at Dresden-Neustadt station, which if you are staying on the north side of the river, may be a more convenient place to get off. Before spending money on a transfer, be sure to check whether your hotel is within easy walking distance. Also consider that public transport is the cheapest and sometimes fastest option. Taxis are available at all rail stations and are generally honest, so if you prefer the convenience of not carrying your bags on public transport, they are an option. Some private transfers even meet you directly on the platform to help with bags.

Day 6

Dresden

Day 6

Dresden

Day 6

Dresden

Day 6

Dresden

9:00 AM - 11:30 AM

Guided Walking Tour of Old Town

During this 2 hour tour you will discover the most impressive sights of Dresden Old Town, like the world famous Zwinger Palace, the Semper Opera House, the Cathedral or the Royal Palace. Our guide will give you all the historic background. You will also have a chance to see the reconstructed Frauenkirche, a symbol of reconciliation and peace in the world, a real pride of inhabitants of Dresden.

Mid-Day

Dresden Christmas Market

Dresden is home to Germany's oldest, and arguably most beautiful Christmas Market. During the Christmas season, the entire city is a wild array of lights, carols, and festivities. You can stroll the lively streets while drinking local mulled wine, tasting the seasonal delicacies and enjoying the festive atmosphere. The first one-day Christmas Market was held in 1434, and today the Dresdener Striezelmarkt hosts over 250 stalls, attracts three million visitors a year and displays the world's largest usable Christmas arch. The focal point of this market is the Spruce. A 20-meter high wooden structure is brought to the city from the Tharandt woods, about 9 miles from Dresden, and is covered in lights and decorations.

Afternoon/Late Afternoon

Explore the Altstadt (i.e. the Old Town)

Picturesquely located on a bend of the Elbe River, Dresden is the capital of the German federal state of Saxony and was long the royal residence for the Kings of Saxony. They transformed their home over the centuries into a splendid architectural jewel. Because of its fascinating baroque and rococo city center, as well as its art collections, Dresden was often called the “Florence on the Elbe”. But Dresden also became a major industrial center, making it a target in WWII. The entire city center was destroyed in a fire-bombing raid, and over 20,000 inhabitants died in the flames and rubble. After the war, the city’s former beauty was gradually reconstructed and Dresden is now again a leading center of art, culture and classical music. During your visit, you will have the opportunity to admire restored architectural gems, impressive museums, and rich art collections.

Day 7

Dresden to Berlin

Day 7

Dresden to Berlin

Day 7

Dresden to Berlin

Day 7

Dresden to Berlin

Morning

Cross the River to Discover the "New Town"

Completely different to Altstadt in feel and ambiance, Neustadt on the right bank of the River Elbe is far less touristed and is the favorite stomping ground of Dresdener youth thanks to its proliferation of cheaper restaurants, cafes, and pubs. Neustadt means New Town, but its history stretches back centuries and it's only new in comparison to the Old Town on the opposite side of the river. Less damaged than the Altstadt in the firestorm bombing raid of February 1945, the riverbank is populated with exquisitely constructed palaces, administrative buildings, and museums, while Königstraße still hosts an array of 18th-century Baroque townhouses. The more modern Hauptstraße leads you to the fascinating DDR World Museum depicting life under the former communist regime. Strolling along the river and enjoying the parks and statuary along the banks is a great way to see the locals relaxing.

1:55 PM

Transfer to Station by Taxi or Public Transport

Most trains depart from Dresden hbf (i.e. hauptbahnhof, main station) station, the largest station in the city, although many trains make a stop at Dresden-Neustadt station. If you are staying on the north side of the river, this may be a more convenient departure point for you. Before spending money on a transfer, be sure to check whether your hotel is within easy walking distance. Also consider that public transport is the cheapest and sometimes fastest option. If staying at a hotel, they can order a reliable taxi. Some private transfers will even help with your bags.

14:55 - 16:42

Rail Journey to Berlin

Your scenic journey to Berlin should take about two hours. You will first travel through the pleasant countryside of the state of Saxony, of which Dresden is the capital. Then you will journey across the German state of Brandenburg, which is blanketed by thick pine forests, before reaching Berlin.

4:42 PM

Transfer from Rail Station by Taxi or Public Transport

Most trains arrive in Berlin Hbf station, the largest station in the city. Before spending money on a transfer, be sure to check whether your hotel is within easy walking distance. The station is well connected by public transport to all of central Berlin; U-Bahn, S-Bahn, and bus all service the station. This means public transport is often the fastest and easiest way of reaching the station. Berlin taxis are generally reliable and honest, so if you prefer the convenience of not carrying your bags on public transport, they are a good option. Uber is also a good option, and some private transfers even meet you directly on the platform to help with bags.

Early Evening/Evening

Exploring Hidden Courtyards & Jewish History

With booming 19th-century population growth, nearly every unoccupied space in Berlin was filled by tenement buildings surrounding small courtyards. The Spandauer Vorstadt neighborhood possesses some of Berlin’s most beautiful courtyards, the Hackesche Höfe, as well as other courtyards which better recall the crowded conditions of industrial Berlin. Here you can discover the partially reconstructed New Synagogue, the former site of the Jewish cemetery, and many hidden reminders of a once vibrant community.

Day 8

Berlin

Day 8

Berlin

Day 8

Berlin

Day 8

Berlin

9:30 AM - 12:00 PM

Highlights of Berlin Guided Walking Tour

On this 3 hour tour, your guide will show you the highlights of Berlin and help you understand what makes this city so unique. Sites visited will include the boulevard Unter den Linden, the Gendarmenmarkt, Check Point Charlie, remnants of the Berlin Wall, Potsdamer Platz, the Holocaust Memorial, the Brandenburg Gate, and the Reichstag.

Mid-Day/Afternoon

Berlin's Most Iconic Sights

Many of Berlin’s most iconic symbols are found within a short walk of each other. Most famous of all is the Brandenburg Gate. First built as a symbol of peace, it became a symbol of division during the Cold War. A few steps away stands the Reichstag, which was destroyed in the climax of World War II but which has been beautifully rebuilt with a glass dome. Meanwhile, the modernistic Sony Center also symbolizes a revitalized and rebuilt Berlin. Also close by is the sobering Holocaust Memorial, with its more than 2700 concrete slabs creating an ominous impression of loss. Just beyond it is another reminder of Germany's darkest period - the site of Hitler's bunker during the seige of Berlin.

Afternoon to Early Evening

Explore the Museum Island

This island in the River Spree is home to five world-renowned museums, which could easily fill up a whole trip just by themselves. The island is covered in trees and green lawns, while the classically-inspired architecture of the museums can be enjoyed without even stepping inside. Unfortunately, the biggest star of the island, the Pergamon Museum, with its wholly reconstructed ancient buildings, is closed until 2026 for renovations. However, you can still visit a massive 360-panorama depicting the ancient city of Pergamon, and there's still more museums to visit than you could possibly fit in. Also to be found on and around Museum Island are the majestic Berliner Dom cathedral and the huge Berlin Palace.

Day 9

Berlin

Day 9

Berlin

Day 9

Berlin

Day 9

Berlin

Early Morning/Morning

Stroll the Kurfürstendamm in West Berlin

In the 1920's the elegant, tree-line boulevard known as the Kurfürstendamm was the center of Berlin's nightlife and leisure scene, attracting writers, film stars, and artists. WWII left it in ruins, and today at the end of the boulevard you'll discover a chilling reminder of that destruction: the purposefully unrecontructed remains of the Memorial Church. During the Cold War, the Kurfürstendamm and its surroundings were central to West Berlin's revitalized identity. This was perhaps best symbolized by the famous KaDeWe, the gigantic department store which served as a symbol of market capitalism lodged in the heart of the Iron Curtain.

Morning/Mid-Day

Wander the Tiergarten and Climb the Victory Column

Once the hunting ground of the Prussian kings, the Tiergarten is Berlin’s most famous and expansive park. It is a wonderful escape from urban stress located in the very center of the city. You will discover beautiful forests, fields, and ponds, all easily reached through an extensive and well maintained network of trails. Some of Berlin's favorite beer gardens are also located in the park.

Mid-Day/Afternoon

Checkpoint Charlie and the Jewish Museum

The best-known Berlin Wall crossing point between East Berlin and West Berlin during the Cold War, Checkpoint Charlie was the main gateway between the two Berlins for most non-Germans. Next to it is the Mauermuseum recounting the history of the Berlin Wall, while a few hundred yards away is the Topography of Terror depicting the history of the Nazi regime. Nearby, the Jewish Museum explores the fascinating history of Germany's Jewish heritage in a striking modern building - uneven floors, empty spaces, and sharp zig-zags reflect its turbulent experience in Germany.

Day 10

Depart Berlin

Day 10

Depart Berlin

Day 10

Depart Berlin

Day 10

Depart Berlin

To Be Determined

Transfer to Berlin Airport by Taxi or Train

The most affordable and fast way to reach Berlin Brandenburg airport is by train. The Airport Express train takes only 30 minutes and leaves directly from the main station in central Berlin (Berlin Hbf). Regional and S-Bahn trains also depart from other locations in Berlin. Berlin taxis are generally reliable and honest, so you may wish to take a taxi or Uber, although this is more expensive than the train and puts you at the mercy of traffic. You can also arrange a private transfer. If you are picked up about 3 hours before your departure time, you should arrive at the airport with about two hours to spare, depending on traffic. If you are leaving during rush hour, you may want to budget an extra fifteen to thirty minutes.

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10 Days of Holiday Spirit in Germany's Best Christmas Markets

10 Day Tour of Munich, Nuremberg, Dresden and Berlin

$1415

Secure Your Customizable Trip Enter your details to embark on a journey that can be tailored just for you.

Craft Your Own Itinerary Select your interests and destinations for a trip plan inspired by you.

Trip Map & Itinerary

Day-By-Day Itinerary

Arrival in Munich Airport and Transfer by Taxi or Train

Secure Your Customizable Trip
Enter your details to embark on a journey that can be tailored just for you.

Craft Your Own Itinerary
Select your interests and destinations for a trip plan inspired by you.