The Best of Winter in Munich

"Middle Ages Christmas Market It won't take more than a few seconds from entering the Middle Ages Christmas Market and you'll feel as if you've stepped back in time a few hundred years. Vendors are dressed in full medieval costumes selling primitive medieval wares and homemade jewellery and soap. Take in the historic atmosphere over a mug of mulled wine served appropriately in a chalice. The market is open from the end of November, until December 23rd each year."

"Germany's Largest Manger Market Christmas mangers have been a tradition in Munich since 1597. You can bring a small piece of history back home with you by purchasing a manger itself, or some of the smaller handmade wooden or unbreakable plastic figurines to go in a manger. The Kripperl Market (Manager Market) is open from the end of November (dates vary every year according to Advent) and closes December 23."

"Under the Starry Trees A favorite Christmas market of locals, it houses over 60 vendors, so you can shop till you drop. There are also rides for the kids making it family friendly. Everyone will enjoy the good eats - try the Flammkuchen (pizza served on a very thin slice of dough), or one of the many potato dishes. Open from the end of November (dates vary each year depending on the Advent) and runs until Dec 24."

"Magical Munich Karlsplatz, the city center nicknamed Stachus after a pub Beim Stachus, is home to local life and history, making it the perfect place to start exploring Munich . Around this central hub you'll find that farmers' markets, historical interest points, and traditional life come together for a wonderful mix in Bavaria's largest city. When one thinks of Munich , Octoberfest is usually the first thing that comes to mind, and while it is an amazing event, Munich offers much more. By Rob Kerwin"

"Tollwood: Munich's Favorite Winter Festival Tollwood is a festival taking place at the start of the first Advent continuing until December 23rd (check the website for exact dates). Its focus is on culture and the environment, and there are a wide variety of programs ranging from live musical and theatrical performances, to speeches and films. The fair-like atmosphere also lends itself to shopping from unique vendors and a bio food court where the focus is on sustainability. The winter festival is held in the Theresienwiese, the same venue as Oktoberfest. There's also a summer version of the festival held in Olympic Park South."

"Sendlingertor: Munich's Southmost Gate Sendlingtor is one of three remaining gates standing that were the entrance to medieval Munich . It formed part of the north-south highway. It was first mentioned in 1318 as the starting point to Italy, but it likely existed earlier. Unlike the other gates, Senlingtor was barely damaged in WWII."