Episode 80 – Essential Tips for Exploring Germany’s Christmas Markets

In episode 80 of the Global Travel Planning Podcast, Tracy is joined by travel expert Cate from My Germany Vacation to dive into the magical world of German Christmas markets.

From iconic cities like Berlin, Cologne, and Munich to charming small-town markets in Rothenburg, Regensburg, and Esslingen, Cate shares her decades of experience to help you plan a festive getaway filled with culture, food, and unforgettable memories.

Discover how to choose between Germany’s countless markets, the best times to visit, and what to pack for cold winter evenings. Learn which foods and drinks you simply must try – like Glühwein, Lebkuchen, and roasted almonds – plus tips for avoiding “food fatigue” when market-hopping.

Cate also explains why smaller, local markets often outshine the big-name ones, and how to balance busy itineraries with slowing down to savour the holiday spirit.

Packed with personal stories, hidden gem recommendations, and practical advice, this episode will inspire and prepare you to make the most of Germany’s yuletide traditions.

Episode 80 – What you’ll learn in this episode

• 📍 How to navigate Germany’s extensive and diverse Christmas markets, with tips for narrowing down which ones fit your travel style
• 📅 Strategies for planning your itinerary, including key dates for visiting markets and why flexibility pays off during the festive season
• 🚄 Insights on moving between cities or exploring multiple markets in one destination, with practical tips for market-hopping logistics
• 🛏️ Advice on packing for comfort—layers, sturdy footwear and weatherproof gear—to ensure you stay cosy while exploring outdoor markets
• 🥢 Essential foods, drinks and treats you must sample, plus how to seek out regional specialities and avoid food fatigue
• 😲 Why smaller, local markets can be even more magical than their famous counterparts, and the value of slowing down to truly savour the holiday atmosphere

Places, foods and words/concepts mentioned

Places Mentioned

• 🏙️ Berlin – A capital city with a huge variety of markets, from historic squares to quirky pop-ups
• 🎄 Cologne – Famous for the Angels Market and a mix of traditional and modern festive markets
• 🍷 Munich – Central and off-the-beaten-path markets, including a Glühwein (mulled wine) festival
• 🛡️ Esslingen – Medieval-themed market with costumes, games and old-world entertainment
• 🏰 Rothenburg ob der Tauber – A fairytale town with a market set in its pedestrianised old town
• 🌉 Regensburg – Riverside markets offering local food and crafts
• 🎡 Stuttgart & Surroundings – A giant main market plus smaller, family-friendly experiences

• 🍷 Glühwein – Classic German mulled wine, in many flavours (including non-alcoholic), served in collectable mugs with a refundable deposit
• 🍪 Lebkuchen – Spiced gingerbread biscuits, often glazed or chocolate-coated
• 🥔 Potato Pancakes – Crispy favourites usually served with applesauce or savoury toppings
• 🥞 Nutella Crêpes – Fresh crêpes with gooey Nutella, always a crowd-pleaser
• 🌰 Roasted Cinnamon Almonds – Warm, sweet almonds roasting at many stalls
• 🥘 Regional Specialities – Mushrooms in cream sauce, bratwurst, and pancakes with cherry compote (popular items can sell out quickly!)

Words & Concepts

• ☕ Christmas Market Mug Deposit – Pay a small deposit for mugs or plates, refunded when returned

Links

Find Cate

• My Germany Vacation
• Germany Travel Planning Podcast

Podcasts

• Episode #45 – Germany Travel Guide: Expert Tips for first-time visitors
• Episode #37 – Tips for first-time visitors to France
• Episode #6: Discovering Switzerland with Swiss travel expert Carolyn Schönafinger

Articles

• 13 Best German Movies on Netflix to enjoy in 2025
• Binge-worthy German TV shows on Netflix

Guest Bio – Cate Brubaker

Loved this episode? Have a question? Get in touch!