Winter in Germany can be bitterly cold, especially in the north, when the winds come in from the North Sea and the Baltic Sea. Don't let that sunny day fool you - no cloud cover in the north generally means it is colder than when there are clouds (something about the clouds keeping in the warmth). Naturally, the snow in the Black Forest, the Alps, and the Harz Mountains makes for wonderful skiing and Christmas Markets are even more charming than usual with a dusting of snow.
It gets dark very early - as early as 4:00 pm, night falls which makes the Christmas Markets much more charming but may shorten your ski days. Germans are very energy-conscious so restaurants and bars will often be a little chilly and unless you are in a new hotel, you are not likely to have central heating. Just turn the valve up to high on your radiators when you get into your hotel room and you will be fine.
- Go to the Christmas Markets - Germany's Christmas Markets are world-renowned and every one more charming than the next. Neither rain nor snow nor sleet keep Germans from going to the Christmas Markets. Dress warm - gloves, hat, boots, warm coat and don't worry, there is enough body heat emanating from the crowds that you won't freeze. A little Gluhwein (hot spiced wine) or hot chocolate and you are good to go.
- Go skiing (cross country or down-hill) in the Alps, Black Forest or Harz Mountains.
- Attend Carnival in Cologne, Düsseldorf, Mainz, Munich or one of the many cities that host Carnival (Fasching) celebrations.
- Celebrate Sylvester (New Years Eve) with fireworks and parties around the country.
- Take in theatre or music performances in the city and try to attend one of the many performances of the Messiah at cathedrals and churches around Germany.
- If you are staying for both Christmas and New Years, keep in mind that Christmas Eve and Christmas Day almost everything is closed so plan your Christmas meals accordingly by making reservations at the restaurants you want to eat at, or planning walks in parks or other scenic areas.
- Make sure you eat some goose. Traditionally, goose is served at Christmas here and it is wonderful - you can get it throughout the season and it is well worth trying out.
