Visiting Germany is my most favorite thing to do during the holidays. We typically fly into Frankfurt, rent a car and head south along the “romantic road.” then we’ll stop at as many Christmas markets we can find along the way.
The markets are set up the last week of November and run through December 24th. The weather can be quite chilly but that doesn’t stop people from bundling up and coming out to enjoy the festivities.
In every market square, there are Christmas lights strung on the half-timbered houses, garland hung, and the many decorated Christmas trees that are brought in for the season. You will find booths set up selling items ranging from gingerbread biscuits, grilled sausages, Christmas ornaments, wood carvings and my favorite, “Gluhwein,” (hot spiced wine). Carolers and small bands will sing and play Christmas carols.
It is a true winter wonderland!
Our first night is usually spent in the best preserved walled Medieval town of Rothenburg ob der Tuber. Taking the night watchman tour that starts in the “marktplatz” and guides you along the cobbled stone streets is a must do! It really brings you back in time as you learn the history of the town. The tour ends in front of tavern named “Zur Holl” (To Hell).
The night guardsman ends the tour with, “If someone tells you to go to hell, it’s a good recommendation!” I always enjoy stopping in to have a beer or a warm cup of horseradish soup.
Germany now uses the German Euro (you can add one to your tooth fairy coin collection here), but they used to use the Deutsche Mark which came in bills and coins. There were also pfennig coins – there were 100 pfennig to the DM.
The next morning we explore the ramparts and head to our next Christmas market in the next town, Heidelberg. The market is set up in the old castle over looking the old city. We always enjoy talking a stroll along philosopher’s way for its incredible view.
Finally Munich! With 2,500 lights, the Christmas tree which sits in front of the old town hall at the center of “marienplatz” is magnificent. Munich has so many wonderful traditional restaurants as well as the touristy hofbräuhaus. It’s fun to grab a seat where ever you can (the tables are shared) order a stein of German beer and watch the live band wearing traditional lederhosen play their “oom pah music.”
The last stop before heading home was Mad King Ludwig’s Neuschwanstein castle. This castle was rumored to be the inspiration for Disney’s Cinderella castle. The story about the the king is a fascinating one ending in mystery.
I’m always sad to leave Germany but excited I get to start planning our holiday for the following December. New towns to explore and so much more Gluhwein to enjoy!
