A Winter Adventure: Germany And Austria In December

Germany and Austria are popular destinations in December, with tourists visiting historic cities and villages and enjoying winter sports. With an average direct flying time of under 2 hours from most major UK airports, it's easy to see why. If you're looking for small, non-touristy towns with a view of the Alps, you might want to consider Salzburg, which is a couple of hours by train from Munich.

Skiing and winter sports

If you're looking to ski and enjoy winter sports, December is a great time to visit Germany and Austria. Austria, along with neighbouring Switzerland, is the winter sports capital of Europe. It's easy to get to, with an average direct flying time of under 2 hours from most major UK airports to a choice of popular Austrian destinations.

You can also ski in Germany, and December marks the beginning of the ski season. You could consider spending a few days in the Bavarian Alps or the Austrian Tirol.

If you're looking for small, non-touristy towns with great views of the Alps, you could try the Austrian town of Salzburg, which is a couple of hours by train from Munich.

If you're looking for somewhere a little quieter, you could try the Medieval market in Esslingen, just outside Stuttgart.

Christmas markets

If you're looking to visit Germany and Austria in December, you're in luck: both countries are known for their Christmas markets.

Munich and Salzburg are two cities that are highly recommended for their Christmas markets. Munich has large markets in different parts of the city, and Salzburg is described as "the most picturesque market with the most stunning backdrop".

You can easily travel between the two cities by train, bus, or private car. The train journey is particularly scenic and takes around 1 hour and 30 minutes.

If you're looking for a less touristy experience, consider the Medieval market in Esslingen, just outside Stuttgart. This market is a little more unusual and is located a couple of hours away from Munich by train.

For a 10-day Christmas market itinerary, you could also consider visiting Zurich and stopping at Neuschwanstein Castle.

Towns and villages

Germany and Austria are both beautiful countries to visit in December, with plenty of towns and villages to explore.

If you're looking for small, non-touristy towns with great views of the Alps, you might want to consider the Austrian Tirol or the Bavarian Alps. These regions offer stunning scenery and a more authentic experience away from the typical tourist trail.

For a charming town with lovely markets, Salzburg is a great option. It's just a couple of hours by train from Munich, which also boasts large markets in different parts of the city. If you're looking for something a little more unusual, the Medieval market in Esslingen, just outside Stuttgart, is definitely worth a visit.

If you're interested in exploring historic cities and villages, Austria has plenty to offer. Vienna, the country's elegant capital, is a must-visit, with its grand architecture and vibrant cultural scene. Other popular destinations include Strasbourg and Colmar, which are known for their picturesque nearby villages.

Frankfurt, Wurzburg, Bamberg, and Rothenburg ob der Tauber are also worth considering for their unique charm and beautiful surroundings. Whether you're seeking scenic beauty, cultural experiences, or festive markets, Germany and Austria have something special to offer during the festive season.

The Alps

Germany and Austria are popular destinations for winter sports, with many tourists visiting the Alps for skiing. The Alps are a mountain range in Central Europe, spanning several countries, including Germany and Austria. The Alps are known for their stunning scenery, with majestic peaks, pristine lakes, and picturesque villages.

If you're planning to visit the Alps in December, there are a few things to keep in mind. First, check the weather conditions and ensure you have appropriate clothing and gear for the cold temperatures and potential snow. Second, consider your transportation options. Many resorts in the Alps offer ski lifts and cable cars to access the slopes, but you may also want to rent a car to explore the region more freely.

When it comes to choosing a base for your trip, there are several options. If you're looking for a lively atmosphere and easy access to the slopes, consider staying in one of the larger towns or resorts, such as Garmisch-Partenkirchen in Germany or Innsbruck in Austria. These towns offer a variety of accommodation options, restaurants, and apres-ski activities. Alternatively, if you prefer a quieter and more secluded experience, you might opt for a smaller village nestled in the mountains, such as Hallstatt in Austria or Berchtesgaden in Germany. These villages offer a more intimate and authentic experience, surrounded by breathtaking natural beauty.

Whether you're a seasoned skier or a beginner, the Alps offer a range of slopes to suit all levels. You can find gentle beginner-friendly runs, as well as more challenging black diamond trails. Beyond skiing, the Alps also offer a plethora of other winter activities, including snowboarding, snowshoeing, ice skating, and sledding. You can also explore picturesque hiking trails, visit charming Christmas markets, or indulge in delicious local cuisine and cosy evenings by the fireplace.

Travel times and itinerary

The best way to travel between Germany and Austria is by train. The journey from Munich to Salzburg takes just a couple of hours, and Salzburg is highly recommended for its lovely markets. You could also consider the Medieval market in Esslingen, just outside Stuttgart.

If you're looking for small, non-touristy towns with great views of the Alps, you could consider spending a few days in Alsace, especially Strasbourg and Colmar with its nearby villages.

For a 15-day trip, you could consider the following itinerary:

• Arrive in Frankfurt and spend 2 nights in Wurzburg
• Spend 3 nights in Bamberg and/or Rothenburg ob der Tauber
• Munich for 2 nights
• 3 nights in the Bavarian Alps or Austrian Tirol
• 2 nights in Salzburg
• 3 nights in Vienna

You could also fly to Germany or Austria, with an average direct flying time of under 2 hours from most major UK airports.

Frequently asked questions