To get the best out of your winter vacation, consider Germany in December. Sure, it is cold, it snows, and the days are short, but many other wonderful things occur here that will make your vacation unforgettable. The following blog covers all the relevant information you need, from the best places to see and activities to do in December to the amazing festivals and must-try foods.
Is December a good time to visit Germany?
If you don’t mind the cold weather, then this is the best time to visit Germany. Tourism numbers are concentrated in certain areas while the rest of the country is free from the crowds. Attractions may be open for a shorter time, but other activities related to the weather become available so that you can enjoy those. And of course, the Christmas craze envelops the whole country, and the legendary Christmas markets open up to serve you the best food, decorations, gifts, and a little bit of magic. You are sure to have a ‘wúnderbar’ vacation!
Weather in Germany in December
Germany weather in December is cold. Though the extreme cold starts in the latter half of the month, you will still have to wear warm clothes whenever you step out, sometimes indoors. The days are short with very few sunlight hours. There are also chances of rainfall and snow. This is the month when winter starts to spread throughout the country, spreading seasonal cheer.
- Temperature: Low – 0°C, High – 5°C
- Humidity: Around 76%
- Chance of Rain: 60%
- Daylight Hours: 8 to 9 hours
- Sunrise: Around 07:25 AM
- Sunset: Around 04:16 PM
Things to do in Germany in December
Though the days are short and the weather is not favorable, there are still many things to do in Germany in December to have a great time in this wonderful country.
Winter Sports
Head to the mountainous and hilly areas in Germany to enjoy winter sports. This is one of the best times in the country, as the crowds haven’t started coming in, so you can have a free run of the slopes. The ski lodges and resorts become operational, and the many downhill slopes are also prepared for skiing. There are different slopes for different difficulty levels and skills. There are also cross-country trails for the more adventurous ones. Other winter activities you can indulge in are snowshoeing, ski jumping, tobogganing, and winter hiking. The ski resorts and ski lodges also have many fun activities on their premises. Germany has some of the best winter sports in Europe, so you should enjoy them when you are here.
Castles Tours
If you think Germany’s many castles look good in spring, you should try seeing them in winter. Sure, the colorful gardens may be shut, but the castle itself, with its snow-capped roof and turrets and the surrounding atmosphere, looks beautiful. Start at Bavaria’s Neuschwanstein Castle, one of the most popular castles in the country. The Heidelberg Castle is also a must-visit thanks to the perfect amalgamation of Renaissance and Gothic architecture. The nearby Neckar River further enhances this castle’s beauty. The Wartburg Castle Thuringia, where Martin Luther worked on the New Testament, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site that should be on your castle tours list. Other must-see castles are Charlottenburg Palace, Reichsburg Cochem, Eltz Castle, Würzburg Residenz, Kaiserburg Nürnberg, and Schloss Linderhof.
Christmas Markets
Despite the weather in Germany in December, one of the main draws of coming here is the legendary Christmas markets. From the end of November, many Christmas markets start popping up all over. These markets are an amazing place to shop for everything related to Christmas. Find the most amazing Christmas trees and decorations to adorn your home. Also, get the tastiest treats like cakes and cookies and even gingerbread houses to liven up your Christmas parties. Some of the best Christmas markets in the country that you should check out are Frankfurt Christmas Market, Rothenburg ob der Tauber, Nuremberg Christkindlesmarkt, Dresdner Striezelmarkt, Cologne Christmas Market, and Munich Christmas Market. Make sure to have a few on your itinerary when you tour through Germany.
Enjoy the Nightlife
Germany has a brilliant nightlife. Thanks to the presence of so many students, including foreign students, the country’s nightlife is always buzzing. It is one of the best in Europe, and you can experience it all. December is one of the best months to do this because the cold weather is perfect for indulging in mulled wine and strong beer. Mulled wine, especially, is for this season as it is served warm. Pair it with some hot German bar foods and you have a combination that will take the chill away and warm your heart. Berghain is Berlin’s most famous spot for catching the best drinks and bar foods, and Kreuzkölln is the street full of nightlife spots. Schwabing Street and Gärtnerplatz und Glockenbachviertel in Munich are the nightlife spots full of pubs, bars, and clubs. Hamburg’s nightlife area is Reeperbahn Street, whereas Innenstadt und Alt-Sachsenhausen is where you go for fun in Frankfurt. Wherever you go to Germany, you will find some great, happening spots.
Museum Tours
Germany likes to preserve its history and takes pride in the art and culture of the yesteryear. The country has given birth to many artists, sculptors, and architects whose work and many other historical artifacts are kept in museums. So, tour them and get a live peek into Germany’s history. Start at the museum island in Berlin, which is full of amazing museums like the Neues Museum, the Altes Museum, the Bode-Museum, and Alte Nationalgalerie. Also, check out the Deutsches Museum in Munich. This is the world’s largest science and technology museum, full of amazing and informative exhibits that will blow your mind. In Stuttgart, see the Mercedes-Benz Museum to learn the history of this amazing luxury car brand. Similarly, you can see the Porsche Museum in the same city and the BMW Museum in Munich. One weird must-see museum is the German Spy Museum in Berlin. You will find it fascinating. Germany is the country of museums, and you must experience a few.
Places to See in Germany in December
Some cities and regions are must-sees in Germany, as your vacation won’t feel complete without exploring the amazing things they offer. So, here are the best places to see in Germany in December:
Bavarian Alps
There’s no other place in Germany where you need to be more than the Bavarian Alps. It is one of the best places to go for Christmas. This is where you will find the best winter activities and the most stunning scenery that will put you in vacation mode. You can find awesome lodges or ski resorts, or even stay in picturesque towns. First get the visit to the beautiful Neuschwanstein Castle out of the way, so you can spend the rest of the time doing activities like hiking, snowboarding, skiing, and snowshoeing. You should also do tobogganing, which is like sledding but with your whole family. Bavarian Alps also has a few Christmas markets where you can shop and eat tasty treats like pretzels, sausages, and schnitzel. One must-do thing here is taking a warm dip in the thermal waters of Königliche Kristall-Therme Schwangau. You feel warm and relaxed. The Bavarian Alps have a lot to offer.
Dresden
Another wonderful German city with fantastic architecture and multiple museums, Dresden is not as crowded as other cities, making it perfect for a December visit. The Baroque architectural buildings will soothe your eyes, while the vibrant cultural scene of the city will mesmerize you. Start at the Old Town, where you can catch sites like Zwinger Palace, Semperoper, Frauenkirche Church, and Brühl’s Terrace. Continue to the New Town, where places like Goldener Reiter, Baroque Quarter, and Kunsthofpassage await you. Dresden is also home to the country’s oldest Christmas market, Striezelmarkt, where you can buy traditional Christmas things. The Elbe River flows through the city, so you can do awesome boat tours on the river. You should also check out Pillnitz Palace for its decorative gardens and Grosser Garten, which is a great place to relax. Dresden is a good place, perfect for a fun yet relaxing time.
Berlin
Capital city Berlin is where it’s all at! From Brandenburg Gate and Checkpoint Charlie to Museum Island and Potsdamer Platz, the place is packed with all the major attractions and experiences. Start your day with some coffee at the many cafes in Prenzlauer Berg and admire the cute shops and stores around. Then Czech out Mitte, where most of the city’s best attractions lie. For the nightlife, head to Kreuzberg. Berlin is the most loved place for cruises, thanks to the Spree River and the many cruises that take you on its scenic route. Berlin is also a place to indulge in culture thanks to the presence of so many theaters and cabarets and the presence of the Berlin Philharmonic. There’s so much to do here that you will never have a dull moment. One place you should see is the Jewish Museum in Berlin. Considering the past, this place has many things that will touch your heart. Berlin is brilliant, so it has to be a major stop on your itinerary.
Baiersbronn
Baiersbronn is beautiful all year round, but in December, with all the snow covering the fir trees in the Black Forest, this place looks like a place straight out of a kid’s storybook. Located in the Black Forest region, Baiersbronn is a collection of villages and hamlets that are a nice break from the metropolitan regions. Here, you can enjoy biking and hiking trails and winter sports activities. One major attraction here is the restaurants. Here, you will find Michelin-star restaurants run by famous chefs. Schlossberg (1 star) and Bareiss (3 stars) are the best ones here. You can also learn to make Black Forest Cake, as there are many short workshops you can join. Baiersbronn is also known for its spas and resorts where you can relax and indulge in treatments that will rejuvenate you. Baiersbronn is a wonderful place that’s unique and awesome.
Hamburg
Hamburg is one of the most popular places for a European cruise holiday from Germany. This port city has amazing sites you won’t find anywhere else. For example, the Speicherstadt. This district has the honor of being a UNESCO World Heritage Site, as it’s a warehouse district with canals and brick buildings. Hamburg also has historical monuments like Rathaus, reflecting Neo-Renaissance architecture and St. Michael’s Church, known for its Baroque architecture. Hamburg also has its foot in the future with places like HafenCity, a metro region of modern architecture and developments, and Elbphilharmonie Concert Hall, where you can get stunning city views. The city has a massive collection of museums and galleries like Hamburger Kunsthalle and Miniatur Wunderland. Hamburg also has nightlife regions like St. Pauli and the Reeperbahn for those who like to party. And of course, how would a German city be complete with a Christmas market? Hamburg has the beautiful and festive Rathausplatz Christmas Market. There are a few cruises that leave Hamburg and take you far, so you can also explore Mediterranean cruises that will take you far and back.
Germany Festivals and Events in December
Though winter limits outdoor time for many, there are a few events and festivals in Germany in December that you can attend. These events are oodles of fun and allow you to experience true German culture.
Festivals in Germany in December
The festivals in Germany in December make coming to Germany during this time extra special, as these festivals are fun and a great way for tourists to experience German culture. Here are those festivals:
Winter DOM Festival
Held in Hamburg, this festival is a month-long extravaganza full of attractions and experiences like roller coaster rides. There’s also live music you can dance to and delicious fair food to gorge on. This is one of the best attractions in Hamburg and draws tourists from all over the country.
When: 8th November to 8th December, 2024
Location: Hamburg
St. Nicholas Day (Nikolaustag)
St. Nicholas, the patron saint of Christmas, also known as Santa Claus and Father Christmas, is celebrated on this day. Children get the Nikolaus boot and keep it out to be filled overnight with gifts and sweets. This is a fun day, especially for kids. Tourists with kids can celebrate this.
Christmas Eve
The night before Christmas is big. Families gather around the tree where Christ child delivers the gift. The kids are then called into the room to open the gifts. There are many church services, get-togethers, and parties happening all over the country you can be a part of and celebrate Christmas like a true German.
When: 6th December, 2024
Location: All over Germany
Christmas
One of the great festivals in the world, Christmas is the birthday of the Lord Jesus Christ. It is a holiday throughout the country, with many people heading to church services. Later in the day, people meet friends and family and celebrate the day with delicious Christmas food and drinks. This day is a holiday nationwide.
When: 25th December, 2024
Location: All over Germany
Events in Germany in December
There are also many events in Germany in December that add more to the festive atmosphere. Take part and up the fun quotient of your Germany vacation. Here are the events you can experience in December:
Krampus Runs
This is a parade held in many cities and towns of Germany to mark the legend of Krampus, who is half man and half goat, who accompanies St. Nicholas to put gifts and sweets in the shoes put out by children. In the parade, many dress up as Krampus and roam the streets drinking a special mulled drink. This is a fun parade that many participate in.
When: 30th November to 5th December
Location: All over Germany
New Year’s Eve
New Year’s celebrations are huge in Germany. There are parties and gatherings all over the country, and many cities set off huge fireworks, completely lighting the sky with beautiful colors. There’s joy and celebration all around!
When: 31st December, 20204
Location: All over Germany
Travel Tips to Visit Germany in December
- It is quite cold, so be prepared for this weather, especially if you are coming from a warmer climate.
- Despite the weather, many tourists come to Germany in December, so plan well and make advance bookings.
- Days are short, so be there at the attractions before time, so you don’t get rushed because of closing time.
- Leave room in your luggage for taking back many goodies that you will find at the many Christmas markets.
- Avoid driving on your own, as icy roads can be a risky drive, especially if you are not experienced.
Things to Know Before Visit Germany in December
What to pack for Germany in December?
Warm clothes and more warm clothes. Also, pack heavy-duty shoes that will keep you warm and help you walk in slick conditions. Carry your important documents, German currency, medicines and prescription, universal chargers for your smart devices, and additional winter accessories that will help you with the cold.
What to wear in Germany in December?
Thick, woolen sweaters, thick jackets, woolen headgear, ear muffs and mufflers, and thick shoes. Inner thermal wear is also recommended. All of this should help you beat the chill. Indoors are usually warm, so you won’t need so much cover.
Getting around in Germany in December
The Deutsche Bahn, the German train system, is one of the most efficient systems in the world, and they are operational in the winter as well, so use them. There are many apps and websites that will help you with this. Private cabs and buses are also a good option. Ride-hailing apps are also available in the country.
Where to stay in Germany in December?
Many hotels and resorts are available for guests coming in December. Homestays are available as well. In hilly areas like the Alps, there are stay options in the towns and hamlets, and there are also many ski resorts and ski lodges. Wherever you stay, make bookings in advance, as December is the peak tourist season.
What to eat in Germany in December?
Eat special winter foods like Gänsebraten, Sauerbraten, Wiener Schnitzel, Rinderroulade, Kartoffelsuppe, and Eintopf. In the sweet department, try Zimtsterne, Pfeffernüsse, and Christstollen. You should also try festive drinks like Feuerzangenbowle, Glühwein, and Eierpunsch.
FAQs about Visiting Germany in December
Check out the following FAQs about visiting Germany in December. These will help you know more about what tourists are expecting this month.
1. Is the weather too cold in Germany in December?
No, Germany temperature in December is manageable, as the weather in the following month is a lot colder, but with the right warm attire, you can get out and enjoy what Germany has to offer.
2. Why visit Germany in December?
The winter season is just beginning, so it is not unbearably cold, and winter activities begin in the high altitude places. Hiking is also possible because snow is still quite low. Plus, this is a festive season, so the atmosphere throughout the country is quite celebratory.
3. What seasonal foods are available in Germany in December?
Cold weather is hard for vegetable growth, but there are still many seasonal foods that grow in Germany. Beets, carrots, parsnips, kale, and Brussels sprouts are available this month, and they are widely used in many meals during this time.
4. Are there any holidays in Germany in December?
Yes, Christmas Eve (24th Dec.), Christmas Day (25th Dec.), and Second Christmas Day or Boxing Day (26th Dec.) are all public holidays, so plan properly as many places are shut.Take any list of Schengen countries, Germany would be on top because this country has everything. From historical monuments and strong culture to modern attractions and an enviable nightlife, there’s everything that makes Germany an ideal destination. It is even more wonderful in December, so pack your winter clothes and head to Germany for a great time.
