If you’re looking for a holiday getaway that will fill you with cheer, there is no better place to spend your time than a Christmas market. When you think Christmas market, there’s one country that comes to mind above all others: Germany. Many European countries have holiday markets, but Germany’s is by far the most famous.

This is a unique holiday experience that can’t be replicated in the US. The unique combination of festive food, shopping, and atmosphere is just the thing to get you in the holiday spirit! Here’s what you can expect from a trip to the Christmas markets of Munich, Cologne, and Bremmen.

Christmas Markets 101

Food

One of the best things about the markets is the huge number of delicious food options. You’re going to want to make sure you visit a few classic food stalls to get the complete experience.

Gluhwein & Eierpunsch - If you see these words on a booth, stop and get some. Gluhwein is mulled wine, and eierpunsch is like a light eggnog. Both are super delicious, and you won’t be sorry you stopped.
Feuerzeug Bowle - This is mulled wine on steroids! What they do is take mulled wine, top it with rum, and put a sugar cube in the well on the lip of the cup. Then, they SET IT ON FIRE! What you’re left with is caramelized sugar and rum mulled wine. It’s the stuff of dreams.
Bratwurst - Obviously if you like sausage you will be in heaven in Germany. There are sausages and roast meats of all kinds, and every one of them is amazing.
Raclette - We’ve covered wine and meat, now it’s time for the cheese! At every market you will find at least one Raclette stand, if not more. In a mouth-watering display, the vendor melts and lightly browns the top layer of a wheel of raclette cheese, and scrapes the molten cheese onto a piece of bread. It’s as incredible as it sounds.
Kirsch & Plum Desserts - From steamed dumplings and stewed fruit to cookies and waffles, most desserts will have sour cherry or plum options. They’re all perfectly sweet and full of warm holiday spices.

**Marzipan** - A classic holiday treat, marzipan is sweet almond paste. You’ll find it in pastries and baked goods, and also shaped into potatoes. Yup! These aren’t really potatoes...they’re marzipan. I’m not sure why this is the standard way to serve it, but it’s nothing short of delicious!

Atmosphere

The pure joy and festive spirit of the Christmas market will always bring a smile to your face. They get very busy and crowded as it gets closer to Christmas, but even so people don’t start pushing and shoving their way through. Everyone is generally very friendly and considerate while having fun with family and friends.

And just look at these decorations! For Christmas atmosphere it doesn’t get any better.

Here are a few tips for making the most of your time at the markets:

When you buy a hot drink, you’re going to get it in a real ceramic mug. You’ll pay more for it upfront, but that’s a cup deposit. You can return it when you’re done and get your deposit back, or you can keep it as a souvenir!
Germany is about a 50/50 paper money/credit card based culture. Some booths at the markets will take cards, but don’t count on it. Make sure you bring Euros with you.
Bigger cities like Munich and Cologne have multiple Christmas markets with different themes. You’ll find pirate, medieval, and LGBTQ-themed markets with different shops and food. There will be some repetition of the most popular booths from market to market, but it’s worth checking them all to see what they have to offer.

Beyond The Markets

These markets are a great place to spend your time, but you’ll probably want to venture out and see more of the city. Here are a few of our favorite tourist spots and hidden gems in three cities.

Munich

Haxnbauer - The best plate of pork, dumplings, and sauerkraut you’ll ever have
Sama-Sama - Truly special handmade chocolates and sweets
Neuschwanstein Castle - Be awed by the inspiration for Cinderella’s castle tucked into the Alps

Cologne

Cologne Cathedral - Climb over 500 steps and be rewarded with unbeatable views
Chocolate Museum - Interesting account of the history and processing of chocolate.

Bremen

The Bremen Musicians Statue - If you grew up with this folk tale, come see the characters represented in their city.
Teestubchen - Adorable, cozy tea house with excellent German food.

A trip to Germany is a great way to enjoy the holiday season, eat, drink, and be merry!

Becky Holder is a content contributor for JUGs and works in education. In her free time she looks for the next best cup of coffee and great food. Follow along @rebeccalizholder on Instagram.

German Christmas Markets Travel Guide