Itinerary Advice for 7-day Germany/Austria trip

I would take the train to Salzburg, for sure. Pack light enough to manage your luggage on the train. You don't need a car in Salzburg or Munich. Last I checked, there was a market in town and one out at Schloss Hellbrunn, so you could have two markets to visit in Salzburg.

I agree about taking the train to Salzburg - a car would just be a hindrance there. There is plenty of room on the train for your luggage, too - there are luggage racks or stalls at the end, or if it's not crowded, just put your bags near you in the seats.

For one of your day trips, I would suggest Regensburg. It is a beautiful old town with two Christmas Markets, easily reached on foot from the train station.

Traveling by train with luggage? I am a 78 year old with two knee replacements and a major shoulder repair. We travel Germany with luggage every year by train, usually 10-14 days. It is not that hard. The main thing about traveling by train is to pack light. It has worked over 20 times in the last 16 years.

We previously lived in Germany with our own car. Travel by car was great in the countryside, not so great into cities. Traffic and parking was a hassle.

Driving to Salzburg won’t be a problem, but driving and parking in Salzburg is kinda stressful and a hassle. Take the train. And add another day in Salzburg maybe.

I assume you’re staying in Munich for the rest of your trip and you’re just looking for some day trip/activity suggestions?

Regensburg for sure
Perhaps Nuremberg

Recent Decembers have not had much snow in Germany. Austrian Alps yes. It would not concern me for driving. The car gives you flexibility. Unfortunately some of the smaller Christmas Markets you might reach with a car are open only Friday-Sunday for one or two weekends. From München I agree with Christmas Markets in Regensburg, maybe Landshut and even Nürnberg. It would be a long day, but maybe the train from München to Innsbruck? Maybe see some snow there. If you drive I would make sure you have parking where you are staying, or a parking arrangement at a garage etc.

Add those two ? days to Salzburg. Spend a day cruising on the Wolfgangsee, starting in St. Gilgen and visiting Strobl, and St. Wolfgang. All have very nice markets and charming old town holiday atmosphere. Plus the lake ship is very comfortable with snacks, light meals, hot drinks, etc. We spent a day during early Dec and loved it.

Stop and see Ludwig’s Herrenchiemsee on the way back to Munich.

Thank you all for the great suggestions. We will cancel the car and enjoy the train.

We are unable to extend our time in Salzburg but like the ideas of visiting Regensburg, Landshut and Nürnberg.

I appreciate all the replies as well as the weather information….thank you again!

CiCi

7 days in the Winter. Wear warm clothing, gloves, long overcoat and warm shoes.

While in Salzburg, have you considered visiting Berchtesgaden nearby and adding a day there? Take the Dachau tour on day six.
Consider Augsburg, which is about 50 miles west of Munich, it is over 2000 years old and worth a day. Visit the Rathaus and the Fuggeri, the first housing for the poor (300 years old). They have a nice Christmas market.

Wool socks are a blessing in winter.