Self-drive: Christmas Markets in Bavaria | Yampu Tours

Custom Travel Experiences Since 1998

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Self-drive: Christmas Markets in Bavaria

PRIVATE/GROUP TOUR - 7 DAY SAMPLE ITINERARY

Private/Group Tour Highlights

  • Experience the magic of Munich, Nuremberg, and Rothenburg's Christmas markets.
  • Discover Munich's city center on a 4-hour walking tour, including a Viktualienmarkt tasting adventure.
  • Explore Nuremberg's historic sites and its famous Christmas market.
  • Step back in time with a Rothenburg night watchman tour.
  • Enjoy leisure days in Munich for art, culture, or more market exploration.
  • This trip blends holiday spirit, culture, and cuisine for a memorable German festive season journey.
Interested in this tour?   Let us build you a customized quote based on your budget.

Tour Overview

This journey immerses you in the charm of Germany’s festive season. Upon arrival in Munich, you’ll be warmly welcomed at the airport and set off on an engaging 4-hour walking expedition through the city center, highlighted by a delightful tasting tour at Viktualienmarkt.

You’ll have leisurely hours to explore Munich’s Christmas markets and cultural gems such as art museums. Subsequently, you’ll retrieve a rental car for a scenic drive to Nuremberg, renowned for its captivating Christmas market. An exclusive tour of Nuremberg’s historic sites will follow. Your next destination is Rothenburg ob der Tauber, where an intriguing night watchman tour awaits, and the ensuing day provides ample time to soak up Rothenburg’s festive atmosphere. Ultimately, your journey concludes with a return to Munich, capping off this enchanting holiday experience.

Inclusions
Rental car for 5 days
Included into the car rent:
- GPS guaranteed
- Automatic guaranteed
- Unlimited km
- Additional driver
- Fully comprehensive and theft protection with minimal deductible
- Liability insurance
- Car must be returned with a full tank in order to avoid additional costs.
Best Time to Travel
JAN FEB MAR APR MAY JUN
JUL AUG SEP OCT NOV DEC

Best Good Consult

Trip Type:

All our trips are operated on a private basis unless specified otherwise. This is only a sample itinerary; your Yampu Tour Consultant will personalize this trip for you according to your available dates, interests and type of hotels. This is your trip and we will work on making it perfect!

Tour Itinerary

Day
1

International Flight to Germany

Overnight international flight to Munich, Germany

Overnight international flight to Munich, Germany

Day
2

Welcome to Munich!

Upon your arrival at the airport, our driver will be waiting for you at your gate with a name board. After checking into our hotel in Munich, you will have some free time to relax.

Later in the day, our private guide will pick you up for a 2-hour walking Highlights Tour in Munich, followed by a 2-hour Viktualienmarkt Tasting Tour. During the walking Highlights Tour, you'll get to witness Munich's most famous sights while our guide provides you with in-depth insights into the city's history and culture.

Our guide will also introduce you to the Munich Christkindlmarkt Christmas market, renowned as the most famous and visited Christmas market in Munich. Conveniently situated in front of the New Town Hall, it features numerous stands during Advent, selling mulled wine, Christmas delicacies, toys, clothing, and gifts.

The historic Viktualienmarkt farmers' market, located in the heart of the old town, offers a sensory delight. It's a premier destination for shopping for fresh produce, dairy, bread, Bavarian specialties, and even Bavarian arts and crafts. Our guide will take you on a leisurely stroll through the Viktualienmarkt, introducing you to the marketeers who are eager to share their knowledge about their products, their history, and the true traditions of Bavarian companies.

As you listen, you will have the opportunity to taste various Bavarian delicacies, such as Obatzter with fresh bread or local cheese. ...read less

Day
3

Day at Leisure in Munich

Take another leisurely stroll through the enchanting Christmas Market to fully immerse yourself in the festive ambiance. Savor the aroma of roasted chestnuts, sip on mulled wine, and browse through the charming stalls adorned with unique handcrafted ornaments and gifts.

Alternatively, delve into the rich cultural offerings of Munich by visiting the Pinakothek art museums. Here, you can admire an extensive collection of masterpieces from various periods and styles. Alternatively, explore the fascinating world of automotive innovation and design at the BMW World and Museum, where cutting-edge technology and luxury automobiles await your exploration. Whether you choose to continue your festive market adventure or delve into the cultural treasures of Munich, you're sure to find an array of captivating experiences to enjoy. ...read less

Day
4

Nuremberg

Your rental car will be delivered to your hotel. Once you're behind the wheel, drive to Nuremberg, which is approximately a 2-hour journey.

Enjoy your afternoon exploring one of the world's most renowned Christmas markets. Until Christmas Eve, the "little town of wood and cloth" will illuminate the heart of Nuremberg's Old Town, transforming it into the "Christmas City." Over 180 market stalls, adorned with fresh greens and twinkling lights, beckon you to savor traditional Christmas ornaments in various shapes and sizes, the local gold-foil angel, "Zwetschgenmännle" figurines crafted from prunes, toys and games, and delectable holiday treats for eating and drinking. ...read less

Day
5

Nuremberg

Protected read more...

Protected by the castle, arts and crafts once flourished, while a new spirit of freedom enlivened the city at a time when few other places could offer such a quality of life. And the same is still true today.

Your guide takes you to the medieval city and tells you about how the main buildings in the city were bombed in WWII and then reconstructed using the original stone. Your guide will also introduce you to the Albrecht-Dürer-Haus.

The mighty half-timbered house was the home and workplace of Germany's most famous painter, Albrecht Dürer. Find out how he lived there and get to know some of his works of art!

In the afternoon, we recommend visiting the Nazi Party rally grounds on your own. ...read less

Day
6

Rothenburg ob der Tauber

Continue your journey to Rothenburg ob der Tauber (approximately 1.5 hours).

In the evening, join the Rothenburg Night Watchman on his captivating and enlightening rounds through the darkness. Traverse dark alleyways and wander across dimly lit squares as you immerse yourself in the unique nocturnal atmosphere of the town. Listen to his captivating stories and gain insights into how people lived during the Middle Ages. It's a delightful way to conclude your evening in Rothenburg.

Continue your journey to Rothenburg ob der Tauber (approximately 1.5 hours).

In the evening, join the Rothenburg Night Watchman on his captivating and enlightening rounds through the darkness. Traverse dark alleyways and wander across dimly lit squares as you immerse yourself in the unique nocturnal atmosphere of the town. Listen to his captivating stories and gain insights into how people lived during the Middle Ages. It's a delightful way to conclude your evening in Rothenburg.

Day
7

Rothenburg ob der Tauber

Enjoy a leisurely day in Rothenburg ob der Tauber. Visit the German Christmas Museum, shop for Christmas decorations, wander through the Christmas market, and be sure to savor Rothenburg ob der Tauber’s specialty: Schneeballen (a pastry).

Enjoy a leisurely day in Rothenburg ob der Tauber. Visit the German Christmas Museum, shop for Christmas decorations, wander through the Christmas market, and be sure to savor Rothenburg ob der Tauber’s specialty: Schneeballen (a pastry).

Day
8

International Flight Home

At the appropriate time, you'll drive your rental car from your hotel to the airport, where you'll return the car before catching your flight home.

At the appropriate time, you'll drive your rental car from your hotel to the airport, where you'll return the car before catching your flight home.

Munich, Germany

Rothenburg ob der Tauber, Germany

Nuremberg, Germany

Places You'll See

  • Munich

    The capital of Bavaria and one of Germany’s most vibrant cities, is a harmonious blend of rich history and modernity. Known for its world-famous Oktoberfest celebration, Munich boasts a stunning cityscape adorned with historic architecture, including the iconic Frauenkirche and Nymphenburg Palace. The city is a cultural hub, home to renowned museums like the Alte Pinakothek and the BMW Museum. Munich’s lively Marienplatz square is a bustling center, surrounded by charming cafes and shops, while the English Garden offers a serene escape within the city limits. With a thriving arts scene, excellent beer gardens, and a warm Bavarian hospitality, Munich warmly invites visitors to experience its unique blend of tradition and innovation.

  • Nuremberg

    Nuremberg, a city steeped in history and culture, stands as a testament to Germany’s medieval past and its role in modern history. The city’s well-preserved medieval old town, known as the Altstadt, boasts cobbled streets lined with half-timbered houses and iconic structures like the Imperial Castle (Kaiserburg) and the stunning St. Lorenz Church. Nuremberg’s rich heritage is evident in landmarks like the Albrecht Dürer House, a tribute to the famed artist, and the Documentation Center Nazi Party Rally Grounds, a somber reminder of the city’s role during World War II. Today, Nuremberg hosts the world-renowned Nuremberg Toy Fair and the festive Christkindlesmarkt, making it a delightful destination for history enthusiasts and travelers seeking authentic German culture.

  • Rothenburg ob der Tauber

    A picturesque medieval town, transports visitors back in time with its enchanting cobblestone streets, preserved timber-framed buildings, and charming town square. Located on the Romantic Road, this fairytale-like town is renowned for its well-preserved medieval architecture, including the iconic Plönlein, a charming square framed by two picturesque towers. The medieval wall that encircles the town offers panoramic views of the surrounding countryside, and a visit to the Medieval Crime and Punishment Museum offers a fascinating glimpse into medieval justice. Rothenburg’s Christmas market is famous for its magical ambiance, making it a popular destination for travelers seeking a truly charming and historic experience in Germany.

Hotel Options

4 Star Properties

Munich : Hotel Excelsior by Geisel

Munich : Hotel Platzl

Nuremberg : Adina Hotel

Nuremberg : Hotel Drei Raben

Rothenburg ob der Tauber : Burggartenpalais

Rothenburg ob der Tauber : Romantik Hotel Markusturm

5 Star Properties

Munich : Mandarin Oriental

Munich : Rosewood

Munich : The Charles

Nuremberg : Le Meridien Grand Hotel

Nuremberg : Karl August- A Neighborhood Hotel

Rothenburg ob der Tauber : Herrnschlösschen

Testimonials

Debby B.

Traveled November 2021

From pick up to drop off our trip was magical!

From pick up to drop off our trip was magical! We hired a private tour for the 5 days and it paid off, we saw so many hidden gems, hiked in caves we would have never known about, ate at organic greenhouses etc., I would highly recommend this company.

Traveled To

Jonathan C.

Traveled October 2021

The best guides, the best experiences, and the best service in every country

My wife and I have used Yampu 4 or 5 times now to plan our travel for us. They have access to the best guides, the best experiences, and the best service in every country we’ve used them to visit – from Portugal to Cambodia and from Peru to Iceland. This most recent trip to Iceland was perfect. Two days in Reykjavik, where we did a walking tour of the city, a food tour, the Fly Over Iceland experience, and some shopping and relaxing. Then 2 nights at the Retreat Spa – which is a very special experience in itself that is hard to describe – and then two nights in the countryside where our private guide took us to all of the main attractions on the Golden Circle and South Coast. Private guides mean no waiting, front row parking and VIP access everywhere, and wonderful knowledgeable guides without a lot of time herding on and off of buses and going places that may not interest you. It is a bit more expensive, although not as much as you might think, often less than a high end group tour — without the group. Yampu has planned each trip just for us, exactly what we want to do, and not anything we don’t – and it has always worked out great – highly recommend.

Traveled To

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