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Germany's best Christmas markets-by rail

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Amy Rhodes, Travel Agent in Puyallup, WA

Amy Rhodes

Puyallup, WA Travel Agent

Amy Rhodes

Puyallup, WA · 25+ Years of Experience

Amy Rhodes - Dream Vacations, a Travel Leaders Network Affiliate Agency
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DESTINATIONS VISITED:Austria, Czech Republic, Germany
PLACES VISITED:Augsburg, Dresden, Munich, Nuremberg, Prague, Salzburg
SUGGESTED DURATION:8 Days
Experience the magic of Europe at Christmas with a festive rail journey through Germany, Austria, and the Czech Republic. Begin in Munich exploring the famous Marienplatz Christmas Market before continuing to Augsburg, one of Germany’s hidden Christmas gems. Travel on to Salzburg for alpine scenery and traditional Austrian holiday charm, then visit Nuremberg’s world-famous Christkindlesmarkt. Continue to Dresden to experience the historic Striezelmarkt and beautiful baroque architecture before ending in enchanting Prague, where Old Town Square transforms into a winter wonderland. Travel comfortably by train between cities while enjoying Christmas markets, festive foods, historic old towns, and unforgettable holiday traditions. Fly into Munich and home from Prague. Perfect for travelers who love culture, history, rail travel, and the magic of Christmas in Europe.
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DAY1
Munich
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Fly into the capital of Bavaria
Arrive in Munich and transfer to your hotel. Spend the evening exploring the famous Marienplatz Christmas Market, filled with festive lights, mulled wine, handmade ornaments, and traditional Bavarian foods.
HIGHLIGHTS:
A moment to catch up on jetlag
DAY2
Munich
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Explore the city and beyond
Enjoy a full day exploring Munich’s historic old town and Christmas markets. Visit the Glockenspiel, Viktualienmarkt, Residenz Christmas Village, and Hofbräuhaus. Optional excursions include Dachau Memorial Site or Neuschwanstein Castle.
HIGHLIGHTS:
Dinner at the Hofbrau Haus
DAY3
Augsburg
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More Bavarian sites
Travel by train to Augsburg (approximately 45 minutes). Explore the charming medieval city and its beautiful Rathausplatz Christmas Market. In the evening, enjoy the famous Augsburg Angel Performance (“Engelesspiel”).
HIGHLIGHTS:
Try a specialty drink...Sexy Oma
DAY4
Salzburg
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Music and Fortress
Board the train to Salzburg, Austria (approximately 2 hours). Explore Salzburg’s picturesque old town and enjoy the Cathedral Christmas Market beneath the fortress and cathedral spires.
HIGHLIGHTS:
Sound of Music tour
DAY5
Salzburg
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Explore the markets and maybe a concert
Full day in Salzburg. Visit Mozart’s Birthplace, Mirabell Gardens, Hohensalzburg Fortress, and enjoy the magical alpine Christmas atmosphere. Optional Sound of Music touring available.
HIGHLIGHTS:
There are many free music concerts throughout the city
DAY6
Nuremberg
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World famous Christkindlesmarkt
Travel by rail to Nuremberg (approximately 3 hours). Visit the world-famous Christkindlesmarkt, known for traditional gingerbread, handmade decorations, and festive German holiday traditions. Explore Nuremberg’s medieval old town, castle, and additional Christmas markets. Enjoy traditional Nürnberger bratwurst and warm glühwein.
HIGHLIGHTS:
Spend the evening enjoying the lights and the traditional Baviaria band playing Christmas favorites.
DAY7
Dresden
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Oldest Christmas Market it Germany
ravel to Dresden by train (approximately 3–4 hours). Explore the beautifully restored baroque city and visit the historic Striezelmarkt, one of the oldest Christmas markets in the world. Enjoy a full 2nd day exploring Dresden, including the Frauenkirche, Zwinger Palace, riverfront promenade, and Saxon Christmas traditions.
HIGHLIGHTS:
Visit during the famous Stollen festival and the the 2000# Stollen
DAY8
Prague
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3 days to explore this city
Travel by train to Prague, Czech Republic (approximately 2.5 hours). Explore the Christmas Market in Old Town Square and enjoy the festive atmosphere of one of Europe’s most beautiful cities. Full day in Prague. Visit Prague Castle, Charles Bridge, the Astronomical Clock, and the charming Christmas markets throughout the city center. Free day for sightseeing, shopping, river cruising, or optional excursions. Enjoy a final evening soaking in Prague’s magical holiday atmosphere.
HIGHLIGHTS:
Visit the Jewish Quarter
FINAL THOUGHTS
These are a few of my favorite markets. If time allows, visits to Ulm, Leipzig and Messen are suggested. You can also end in Berlin or do this itinerary the opposite directions.