Tis the season ... for Christmas Markets!
With so many to choose from, how do you know which to attend? For my recent trip, the decision came down to two key questions:
(1) To which city can I fly most directly?
(2) Which markets are in a location I haven't yet visited?
The answer was ... Munich!
| Enjoying warm beverages at the Munich Christmas Market! |
Following the Curated Staycation concept, my husband and I based ourselves in Munich for a full week, exploring locally on foot and the surrounding areas by train or bus.
We stayed near the Munich train station, which was the perfect place for us because it was near both the city center and several Christmas markets! Hotels in the area are available at a variety of price points, from the more basic to luxury, i.e. something to accommodate almost every budget and travel style.
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| Be sure to notify the hotel of your plans in advance of your stay. |
This was our basic itinerary, which works for the Christmas season -- or for any other time of year! You can easily replicate our itinerary on your own or simply contact me for assistance in planning your trip:
DAY ONE: Arrive Munich. Early check-in at hotel. Leisurely day exploring markets, taking a nap, etc. No set plans on this day in case of flight delays.
DAY TWO: First, tour Munich's English Garden. On your own, the English Garden is a great place for a long walk or run -- or even surfing, if one is so inclined! Or sign up for a bicycle rickshaw tour to breeze through the garden plus more of the city.
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| A delightful rickshaw tour of Munich. |
After the English Garden, return to Munich's main square to see the Glockenspiel come to life! Then, after a nice break for a hearty German lunch (and then maybe a nap!), explore more of Munich -- more Christmas market time, or visit one of the local museums, or climb the Frauenkirche tower for the best view in all of Munich!
DAY THREE: Day Trip to Salzburg -- or an easy overnight. About two hours by train, Salzburg is an easy trip from Munich.
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| Packing Light + Extra Adventure = WINNING |
So ... Salzburg! The Salzburg Christmas Market was my favorite, and I definitely recommend this little excursion if you're visiting during Festive Season. While in Salzburg, consider visiting the gorgeous cathedral in the main square, enjoying a horse & buggy ride, or visiting museums to learn more about Krampus or maybe Mozart! Be sure to try Mozartkugeln, a special candy originating right in Salzburg.
In the evening, return to Munich ... or take the train to your next day trip location ...
DAY FOUR: Day Trip to Innsbruck! Set in a valley surrounded by glorious mountains, Innsbruck might have been my favorite stop on this trip. Innsbruck hosts six Christmas Markets, three of which are in the city center. My favorite was along the river -- don't miss the antique carousel!
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| Ohhhh, the lovely Top of Innsbruck! |
What else to do in Innsbruck? Go to the top! One funicular and two gondolas, and you've made it to the Top of Innsbruck with the most glorious view imaginable! In the evening, return to Munich by train.
DAY FIVE: Take a break from the trains and spend another day in Munich. If it's a nice day, take a walk to the neoclassical Propylaea Gate and visit the two nearby museums: one dedicated to contemporary art and the other full of Greek sculptures. If you prefer a little more guidance, join a tour of the city, or try the Hop-On Hop-Off bus around town. Or enjoy some high-end shopping at beautiful Fünf Höfe!
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| Though it looks much older, the Propylaea was completed only in 1862. |
DAY SIX: Day Trip to Neuschwanstein Castle. Trust me on this one: you definitely want to take this trip! The town, Hohenschwangau, is as charming as it gets -- and with another castle, it's the perfect place for a traveling princess! After exploring the town, take the bus to the top of the mountain, then walk to the bridge for an amazing view of Neuschwanstein Castle before strolling down the hill to the castle entrance. After the castle visit, hop into a horse-drawn carriage for a ride back to town. So charming!
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| Often called the "Sleeping Beauty Castle," Neuschwanstein is spectacular! |
The easiest way to visit from Munich is by signing up with a local tour company, but you could also drive or even hire a chauffeur for the day.
DAY SEVEN: If you have an extra day before flying home, visit another nearby town, like Nuremberg or Regensburg. Pretty much every town has its own Christmas Market, and each market has its own vibe or specialty. For instance, Nuremburg is known for its special gingerbread called "lebkuchen" and little people made of dried fruit! And each town has its own unique history, museums, and art -- all awaiting visitors, like you and me!
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| Time for one more market: this time in Nuremberg! |
With so many great towns and so much beautiful scenery, it's hard to wrong with a vacation based in Munich. Next time, I'm visiting during the summer!
WANT TO TRAVEL BUT PREFER A LITTLE HELP WITH LOGISTICS?
That's my specialty! Whether your dream trip involves the Munich markets, the beautiful French countryside, hikes through Italy, or any other destination, domestic or abroad, Curated by Karla LLC excels at collaborating with travelers to plan customized trips for you.
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