The festive markets
From late November, Munich's squares fill with wooden stalls selling ornaments, carved figures, candles and seasonal treats. The main market around Marienplatz is the largest and busiest, set against the backdrop of the New Town Hall. Smaller markets have their own character: there is a medieval-themed market near the Residenz, a pink-lit market in the Sendlinger Tor area with a more alternative feel, and a cosy market at the Chinese Tower in the English Garden.
Expect mulled wine served in souvenir mugs, roasted chestnuts, gingerbread and Bavarian sausages. Most stalls charge a deposit on mugs, which you get back when you return them, or you can keep the mug as a memento.
Warming up indoors
Winter is a good time to explore Munich's museums without summer crowds. The Deutsches Museum, devoted to science and technology, can fill a whole day and is especially popular with families. Art lovers can spend long afternoons in the Pinakotheken galleries in Maxvorstadt.
Evenings are well suited to the city's cultural life. Munich has a strong tradition of classical music and opera, and there are concerts throughout the festive season. A traditional beer hall makes a lively alternative, with brass bands, hearty dishes and plenty of warmth.
Cafes are another way to escape the cold. Look out for seasonal pastries and stollen, a fruit bread dusted with icing sugar that appears in bakeries across Germany in the run-up to Christmas.
A day in the snow
One of the joys of a winter trip to Munich is how quickly you can reach the mountains. Depending on conditions, resorts within a couple of hours offer skiing, snowshoeing, winter hiking and tobogganing. Even if you do not ski, a trip to an Alpine town for a walk through snowy streets and a hot drink in a mountain hut is a memorable day out.
Snow cover varies from year to year, so check conditions before you go and be flexible about which day you travel.
Practical planning
December weekends are busy, and hotel prices rise as Christmas approaches. Visiting in the first two weeks of the month, or midweek, usually means fewer crowds. Markets generally close around Christmas Eve, so check dates if they are the main reason for your visit.
Winter clothing takes up space. If you are bringing boots and a heavy coat, consider a Classic fare with a checked bag included, and remember that online check-in opens 72 hours before departure.
Good to know
- Wear thermal layers; standing at outdoor markets gets cold fast.
- Return your mug for the deposit or keep it as a souvenir.
- Check Alpine weather the evening before a mountain day trip.