Winter in Munich is full of wonder. Believed to have hosted one of Europe’s first Christkindlmarkt as early as the 14th century, the Bavarian capital has long been a place where the season shines brightest. Snow-dusted streets, twinkling lights, and the scent of roasted almonds fill the air through Advent, while the quieter months that follow reveal a slower, more peaceful side of the city.
From festive joy and glittering lights to day trips that lead into snow-covered mountains, winter in Munich offers more than you might expect. Whether you’re visiting for the first time or returning to uncover new corners of the city, here’s how to experience the best of the season with The Charles Hotel as your base.
Munich takes its markets seriously, with over a dozen to suit every mood and moment. From the grand squares of the city centre to hidden courtyards, each has its own charm. Browse stalls filled with handcrafted gifts, hand-blown ornaments and traditional food. The air is scented with Glühwein, roasted almonds, and freshly baked Lebkuchen — honey-sweetened biscuits, often intricately decorated with icing — while sizzling bratwurst and raclette tempt hungry shoppers.
Held in the Kaiserhof courtyard of the Munich Residenz — the former Bavarian seat of government — the Christmas Village offers a charming glimpse of a quintessentially Bavarian tradition, and a quieter alternative to the bustling market at Marienplatz. Known for its handcrafted gifts and 30ft wooden Christmas pyramid, little ones will also delight in the small Fairytale Forest filled with festive scenes and stories.
Travel back in time at one of the city’s most distinctive markets. As a tribute to Munich’s medieval trading history, knights, jugglers, and musicians gather around crackling firepits, in a faithful reproduction of the city’s storied past. Feast on wild boar roasted on a spit and hearty stews, all served with mead or spiced beer, or warm up with a Feuerzangenbowle, mulled wine crowned with a flaming, rum-soaked sugarloaf, poured into clay mugs.
Undoubtedly Munich’s most colourful market, and one of its most popular too. A joyful celebration for all, organised by the local LGBTQ+ community, Pink Christmas brings a lively, inclusive atmosphere with pink lights, DJs, cabaret and drag shows. Alongside mulled wine, you’ll find hot Aperol and Caipirinha punch, while food stalls mix global flavours with Bavarian favourites like potato pancakes.
Since 1991, the Tollwood Winter Festival on the Theresienwiese has offered an “alternative market” with a conscience, combining fair-trade handicrafts, sustainable food, and vibrant performances. More than 90% of its concerts and cultural events remain free, while the Market of Ideas showcases eco-friendly goods and world cuisine. This creative, community-minded celebration captures Munich’s modern spirit.
For a magical festive experience beyond the markets, hop aboard the ChristkindlTram, a 30-minute ride departing from Sendlinger Tor, looping through the Old Town past landmarks such as the Isartor, Nationaltheater and Karlsplatz. With mulled wine, children’s punch and gingerbread on board, it’s a cosy and nostalgic way to see the city at its most enchanting.
On a clear, crisp day, the Botanical Garden makes for a blissfully calm and quiet escape. While the outdoor beds lie beneath frost, the tropical greenhouses bloom with orchids and lush foliage. Afterwards, take a gentle stroll through the grounds of Schloss Nymphenburg, where still ponds and bare trees are bathed in soft light.
Beyond December, discover Munich’s favourite winter traditions. As the weather grows colder, grab a pair of skates and head to the ice rinks at Karlsplatz or the Prinzregentenstadion, or if conditions allow, glide across the frozen Nymphenburg Canal. Try Eisstockschießen (similar to curling) at Olympiapark, for a fun, social pastime. For the truly adventurous, locals even practise cold-water bathing in the Isar River – a bracing but invigorating ritual.
Given Munich’s proximity to the mountains, it’s no surprise the city’s cuisine carries an alpine influence. When the cold sets in, it’s time for hearty dishes and communal dining. Visit Gärtnerplatz Alm in the Glockenbachviertel neighbourhood for cheese or truffle fondue served amongst rustic wooden interiors, or warm up over a steaming glass of mulled wine.
Visitors often overlook Munich’s position as a gateway to the Alps and its easy access to nearby ski resorts. In under 90 minutes, you can be clipping into your skis and carving down the slopes. Garmisch-Partenkirchen offers runs for all levels, while the Zugspitze is home to Germany’s highest pistes and panoramic views. For families and beginners, Tegernsee and Brauneck/Lenggries promise gentle descents and ski schools for those keen to learn. Afterwards, warm up in cosy huts with a plate of hearty Käsespätzle or the sweet pancake dessert known as Kaiserschmarrn.
One of Germany’s longest and most scenic toboggan runs, the 6.5km Wallberg Rodelbahn drops over 825 metres from summit to valley. Beginning at 1,620m, it winds through snow-covered woods and open meadows, finishing in Rottach-Egern after a thrilling 30-minute descent. Perfect for families with older children, it’s a joyful way to make the most of Bavaria’s winter landscape.
Just under two hours from Munich, Nuremberg’s Christkindlesmarkt is one of Germany’s oldest and most atmospheric. Wander among stalls selling handmade decorations and spiced Lebkuchen, or visit the Children’s Market with its carousel and steam railway. Afterwards, explore Nuremberg Castle, a medieval fortress overlooking the Old Town.
Hop over the border to Austria and reach Salzburg in under 90 minutes. With its baroque architecture and snow-covered rooftops, the city feels lifted straight from the pages of a fairy tale. Wander through festive markets at the Cathedral and Mirabell Square, tasting Salzburger Nockerl — a light and sweet soufflé-style dessert — and roasted chestnuts. Along the Salzach River, the skyline and distant Alps create a picture-perfect scene. As the birthplace of Mozart, there’s also plenty for music lovers to appreciate, with themed concerts and recitals adding to the city’s enchanting atmosphere.
Located in the Lenbachgärten quarter, close to Königsplatz, The Charles Hotel is your welcoming retreat throughout the season. Munich’s Christmas markets and winter attractions are just moments away, yet our elegant spaces offer every reason to stay cosy indoors, where thoughtful touches ensure your days remain merry and bright.
The season is as much about celebration as it is about slowing down. Visit The Charles Spa, a serene sanctuary in the heart of Munich, and unwind with our heated indoor pool, Finnish sauna, steam room, and tranquil relaxation lounges. Choose from our range of restorative massages and rejuvenating facials, or indulge in a Day Spa package complete with fruit, towels, and selected treatments.
Our concierge team is on hand to anticipate every need, from private transfers to nearby ski resorts and lift pass arrangements, to ski equipment rentals and après-ski dining reservations. Whether your stay is defined by alpine adventure or quiet relaxation, we’ll ensure each detail unfolds seamlessly.
Celebrate the most wonderful time of the year in style. Admire our beautifully decorated tree, warm up with mulled wine or hot chocolate at Circle Bar, and join the excitement of our daily Advent Calendar draw. Gather with loved ones for our Advent Brunch, enjoy a taste of German tradition with our special Goose menu, or ring in the New Year with a sparkling celebration.
For more information contact: concierge.charles@roccofortehotels.com
Set within the verdant Lenbachgärten quarter and close to the historic Königsplatz, the effortlessly elegant Charles Hotel in Munich is where contemporary style meets traditional Bavarian hospitality.
Set within the verdant Lenbachgärten quarter and close to the historic Königsplatz, the effortlessly elegant Charles Hotel in Munich is where contemporary style meets traditional Bavarian hospitality.
Set within the verdant Lenbachgärten quarter and close to the historic Königsplatz, the effortlessly elegant Charles Hotel in Munich is where contemporary style meets traditional Bavarian hospitality.