Germany is a country steeped in history and culture. This diverse country is remarkable and something that most travellers obsess about. It is a great place to enjoy and explore the great outdoors. From fairytale-like castles to unique festivals, Germany has something to offer everyone. Germany in winter is not just pretty but is also the best time to enjoy some world-class skiing. This is when Nuremberg hosts Christkindelsmarkt – a world-renowned attraction with many stalls selling colourful wooden toys, mulled wines, and German food such as bratwurst and goulash. And, if you like winter sports, the hills around Bavaria make way for some great skiing and snowshoeing, so don’t forget to sip on mugs of warm milk in cosy asthma! And if that wasn’t compelling enough to make you want to plan a trip to Germany in winter, let us convince you further!
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Top Reasons Why You Must Visit Germany in Winter
1. Wintertime in Germany can be fun! Germany plays host to some of Europe’s very best markets, which start in the last week of November and run until Christmas Eve.
2. This is the best time of the year to enjoy a German winter festival.
3. Gluhwein, which is a traditional winter drink in Germany, is served during winter. This is a recipe that will never disappoint you!
4. Does it snow in Germany? Yes, it snows a lot in winter.
5. During the winter days leading up to Christmas, foodies can enjoy a great spread of traditional homemade delicacies in this area.
6. Winter in Wonderland, Germany, is spectacular. This is a great time to go ice skating in Heidelberg. The vast outdoor ice rink offers breathtaking views of the Heidelberg Castle clad in snow.
7. During Christmas, locals light up the cities, villages, parks, buildings, and even trees with all things – cute and dazzling.
Also Read: Restaurants In Germany
Top 5 Places to Visit During Winter In Germany
The weather in Germany in January can be pretty cold, yet enjoyable. Below are a few places you can visit on your winter holidays in Germany.
1. Zugspitze
Zugspitze is the highest peak of the Wetterstein mountain range. This summit is easily accessible by a cogwheel railroad and cable cars that provide an effortless route to the top, where breathtakingly beautiful views of four countries await to mesmerize you. A number of day tours will take you right up to the top, where you can sit down and savour a sumptuous meal or sip on a drink, lazing on a terrace overlooking stunning glaciers.
Things to Do: Winter sports, skiing, snowboarding, sledging, cross-country skiing, Bavarian curling
Best Hotels to Stay: Zugspitz Resort and Hotel Tirolerhof
2. Partnachklamm
The Partnachklamn, also popularly known as the Partnach Gorge, is a must-visit attraction on a trip to Germany. The gorge is dark, wet, and extremely cold during winter but eerily beautiful. In winter, It is transformed into a magical place with beautiful snow formations. Be sure to dress warm and stay away from the edge of the path when it is snowing or icy.
Things to Do: Evening hikes
Best Hotels to Stay: Ferienwohnung Wittmann and Hotel Das Graseck – my mountain hideaway
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3. Cologne Christmas markets
This beautiful German winter market is best visited when the sun shines and the lights glow. The Cologne Christmas markets are seven colourful and busy markets scattered around the city. Set aside at least two days to explore these markets and wear comfortable footwear. The festive market at the Cathedral has over 150 brightly coloured stalls that display intricate wood carvings and artisanal crafts.
Things to Do: Skating, stroll along the banks of River Rhine, visit Cologne Cathedral, shop at the Christmas Markets.
Best Hotels to Stay: Excelsior Hotel Ernst, City Class Hotel Residence
4. Phantasia LandRelated Posts
A whole host of celebrities have visited this park. Be it summer or winter, a trip to Phantasia Land will top off your vacation. This theme park near Cologne operates even in winter and offers the best rides, attractions, and shows for the entire family. This wonderful park also offers a unique dining experience.
Things to Do: Hop on fun rides like the Black Mamba, Taron, and Raik. Also, visit the Mystery Castle.
Best Hotels to Stay: Hotel Mondial am Dom Cologne MGallery by Sofitel
Related Posts: Shopping In Germany
5. Dresden
Germany’s winter temperature can dip to about -50 degrees F and several attractions shut down after Christmas. If you are a chilled-out traveller and do not mind setting out in the snow, visit Dresden during winter. This historic city is home to several museums, palaces, and iconic buildings open in winter. Castle Moritzburg – a spellbinding water castle, particularly, is a must-visit.
Things to Do: Visit Zwinger Palace, Frauenkirche Day trip to Meissen
Best Hotels to Stay:: Traube Tonbach and Romantik Hotel Sackmann
What to Pack for Your Holiday in Germany During Winter
Packing a few things to protect you from snow, hail, and rain.
1. Remember to carry your passport, airline tickets, driving license, and, of course, your wallet!
2. Throw in a portable charger to revive your phone or camera while exploring the snow-clad winter forests.
3. Carry warm clothes, socks, and long underwear to help tackle the freezing winds.
4. A good lip balm and lotion can be a saviour, as winters can dry up your skin quickly.
5. Sturdy German winter boots can come in handy if you plan on exploring the city during winter. They will keep your feet warm and dry.
6. Also, carry a winter scarf, warm gloves, a winter hat, long johns, and a warm German winter jacket or parka, as Germany’s winter weather can be harsh.
6. Make sure you pack your medicines, as not all stores are open during winter in Germany.
7. Lastly, do not forget to carry along a camera to capture some moments of your cold winter vacation in Germany!
You May Also Like To Read: Things To Do In Germany
All in all, winter snow and freezing winds transform Germany into a magical land of dreams, festivities, and cheer that every traveller must experience once in a lifetime! So, plan a trip to Europe and embark on an adventurous journey.
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Frequently Asked Questions About Winter In Germany
How cold is Germany in winter?
Winter in Germany is quite chilly with temperatures dropping to zero degree Celsius in extreme conditions. It can be bone-chilling and breath-stealing.
Which are the winter months in Germany?
December to February are the winter months in Germany.
How should one dress in winter in Germany?
Winter in Germany can be extreme and so it is important to dress accordingly. Layering is the way to fight the biting cold. Wear warmers and when you are heading out, make sure you wear a waterproof jacket since it can rain any time. Mufflers, woolen gloves, and caps are a must.
What should I pack for Germany?
Here is the packing list for Germany:
1. Warm boots with non-slip soles
2. Woolen Cap
3. Scarf
4. Fleece jacket or Sweater
5. Down Jacket or Goose Feather jacket
6. Raincoat
7. Full-sleeves shirt
8. Pants
9. Thermals
10. Delicates
11. Socks
Does Germany get a lot of snow?
Yes. Temperatures fall down to zero in Germany during the winter months so one can expect a lot of snow there.
What can I do in the winter season in Germany?
Some of the things to do in the winter season in Germany are:
1. Shop at the Christmas markets
2. Enjoy the snowfall in Berlin
3. Witness the beauty of the Black Forest
4. Ice skate at Zeche Zollverein
5. Visit the snow covered castles like Hohenzollern Castle
Which Christmas market is the best in Germany?
Some of the best Christmas markets in Germany are:
1. Weihnachtsmarkt Am Kölner Dom – Cologne
2. Dresden Striezelmarkt – Dresden
3. Gendarmenmarkt – Berlin
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A writer at heart with the soul of a traveler is pretty much who she is. Besides, she also loves treating her taste buds to different cuisines, binge-watching almost all sorts of series and movies, and indulging in new experiences every now and then. Also, languages and cultures fascinate her to a great extent, which is why currently she is brushing up her Spanish.
