Trying to figure out where to travel this winter? Take a trip to Germany to enjoy the sights, sounds, and atmosphere of a historic country. You’ll find wonder around every corner, but if you need some help narrowing down your must-sees and -dos, take a look below at our winter travel guide to Germany. We include our top three German destinations as well as some great places to eat and drink when you visit—check them out!
Quick Pack List
Here are a few things you’ll want to pack to protect yourself from the elements and to enjoy an excellent travel experience:
- Travel essentials: Passport, transportation tickets, driver’s license, portable chargers, wallet, and a GPS tracking device for your wallet.
- Clothing essentials: Sturdy winter boots, scarves, gloves, hat, winter jacket, long johns, and other typical travel clothing—the winter weather in Germany can be harsh.
- Toiletries: Good lip balm, lotion, soaps, medicines, and other needs.
Where to Visit
Berlin
When you think of visiting Germany, you probably think of the three big spots: Berlin, Munich, and Hamburg—maybe a few others. But typically, Berlin is at the top of people’s Germany bucket list. If that’s the case, then you’re sure to fall in love with everything the city has to offer. The capital city features one of the most diverse assemblages of people and cultures in Germany.
Check out: The Berlin Wall, the nightlife, the Bundestag, and the Brandenburg Gate
Mosel Valley
One of the prettiest German destinations in the winter, Mosel Valley is the place to go if you’re looking for castles to explore. The snow-covered hills, Christmas markets, wineries, and scrumptious food are just a few of the reasons to book your trip to this winter wonderland. Stay in the picturesque town of Cochem for quite the sweet accommodations.
Check out: Eltz Castle, the winter vineyards, the Christmas markets, and the historic town strolls
Garmisch-Partenkirchen
If you’re a winter nature-lover, then you need to plan your trip to the enchanting getaway of Garmisch-Partenkirchen now. The breathtaking town is easy to reach from popular German cities as well as from France. Once two separate towns, Garmisch-Partenkirchen features two historical centers as a result, which means tons to explore. It’s one of the best places for skiing as well, and it’s located quite close to another popular ski spot, the Zugspitze.
Check out: The town spa (which features indoor pools, saunas, and body treatments), Linderhof Palace, Partnach Gorge, and Lake Eibsee
Where to Eat & Drink
In Berlin…
- Markthalle Neun
You’re sure to notice Berlin’s culinary diversity at Germany’s first street food market.
- Bei Schlawinchen
A German pub that has supposedly never closed its doors, Bei Schlawinchen is a lively place for a brew day and night.
In Mosel Valley…
- Weinhaus Becker
Located within the Becker hotel complex, this wine house serves internationally influenced dishes to get your taste buds tingling.
- Weinsinnig
Visit this wine bar for some refreshing afternoon sips that will keep you strolling through the town.
In Garmisch-Partenkirchen…
- Gasthof Fraundorfer
The raucous atmosphere at Gasthof Fraundorfer isn’t for the faint-hearted. In fact, it’s best for people who love yodeling, knee-slapping, and drinking steins of frothy ale.
- The Local Cure Lounge Bar
A local whiskey bar and restaurant you won’t want to miss, this bar has everything you need to meet your après-ski needs.
Hopefully, our winter travel guide to Germany will help you achieve the vacation of a lifetime. Make sure you turn to Ekster for a wallet that can handle all your exploration—with a tracker that will help you if you lose it. Happy traveling!
