My girlfriend and I are going to Europe over Christmas. 20th to the 3rd round about. i would like to know if Amsterdam, Paris and Munich is to much for 2 weeks? i dont mind not seeing "everything" in each city. just want to see what each place has to offer. The Christmas markets and slow tourist season are the main reasons why id like to go during this time. i know its a broad question just want to know what you all thought.
Posted by
Calgary
2297 posts
Yes, that's quite doable. If you're interested in Christmas markets I'd fly into Munich first to make sure not to miss them as most will end on Dec 23 or 24. You could also take a daytrip to other Christmas markets in Bavaria from there.
Posted by
OP
Kettering, Ohio, USA
4 posts
my girl friend would also like to know about Christmas markets in Paris. Is there any and would you all rather do Christmas in Paris or Germany?
Posted by
Sacramento, California U.S.A.
10203 posts
There was a smallish Christmas market in Paris when we arrived on 12/29, but it was gone after that first day. We arrived in Amsterdam on 12/26 and there were no signs of a Christmas market.
I agree with the advice to start in Munich, since you will most likely find a market still open then.
Posted by
Charlotte, NC, USA
3428 posts
The German and Austiran Christmas Markets are wonderful. If you are in Munich you should make a point to do a day trip to Salzburg- their market is huge and has some great stuff. Plus it is lovely in the winter.
Posted by
Danville, VT
12040 posts
There are plenty of Christmas markets in all three cities, so this shouldn't determine the order you visit each.
But the holidays are not "slow tourist season", as many people from around the world use their Christmas vacation time to visit Europe. Although major tourist sites are not as mobbed as in the summer, you can still expect significant crowds at the most popular destinations.
Here's one bit of advice. The weather in Amsterdam and Paris is usually mild over Christmas (highs in the 30s and 40s), but the last two years have proven to be a huge exceptions. Keep your planning somewhat flexible. Bad weather may throw you a few unexpected curves.