Munich Christmas Market

There are actually several locations in Munich where there are Christmas Markets, but the main one is certainly the one at Marienplatz. This one is in the heart of the city and in the midst of the main shopping area, but it still has a christmassy flair because the surrounding buildings are nice. There are good handcrafted gifts to be had and of course there is more Gluehwein (mulled wine) and sausages than you can stomach. The little wooden stalls look nice. The only downside to the Munich Christmas Market that it is quite crowded, not only because of the Christmas market's visitors but also because there is a lot of through traffic from other pedestrians who just want to cross the Marienplatz in order to get from A to B.

Munich Christmas market is the archetypal picture postcard Christmas market that you would expect to see on a Christmas card. The city is the perfect setting to get into that Christmas vibe thanks to the traditional wooden stalls, the freezing cold air that turns every breath into a ball steam (wrap up warm!) and some beautiful old baroque architecture.

They usually build an ice rink in the centre of town walking distance from the main market if you fancy a bit of more active fun. Most people just tuck into the German wurst - great long sausages that are served in tiny rolls - and the gluhwein - strong and tasty mulled wine. Being a veggie I stick to the gorgeous crepes.

Aside from the markets Munich is full of grand buildings and a castle or two. It's also famous the massive Hofbrauhaus beer hall where your beer is served in massive 1 litre glasses.

The only downsides for visiting Munich's Christmas market is that I found the nightlife a little disappointing with the best bars and clubs seemingly kept out of sight of the tourists. It's not the cheapest of destinations either with far fewer direct flights available than you may expect.

That said I'd definitely recommend Munich as great location for a traditional German Christmas market to quadruple your Christmas spirit over a weekend.