Germany is famous for its Christmas markets, which really get you in the mood for the festive season.
Many start in late November, so you can plan a trip before the depths of winter set in. Get your gift buying done early while you enjoy the sights, sounds and great food. It’s a wonderful experience, and one not to be missed.
One of the most famous Christmas markets in the country takes pace in Cologne, starting Nov. 25. It is home to the largest Christmas tree in the Rhine region, as well as the beautiful Cologne cathedral. You’ll find lots of organic food from the surrounding area on sale, and there is a stream of music events to keep you entertained.
Next up is Dresden, the east German city home to the oldest Christmas market in the country. Traditional products include handcrafted nutcrackers and stollen, a kind of fruit loaf so revered in Dresden that it has a whole market day dedicated to it.
Another good choice is Rothenburg, a medieval town that puts on a charming Christmas market. It remains faithful to almost 500 years of tradition, so you will be able to experience a typical winter wonderland. It runs Nov. 29–Dec. 23.
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