Tony5

During the first week of Dec my wife and I along with two friends will be visiting the Christmas markets and not sure what to expect weather wise and what clothing to pack. We have been to Germany 3 times before but never during the winter months. We will be traveling by rental car. Any advise would be greatly appreciated.

treplow

Which part of Germany will you be in? In december there is liekly to be quite a difference between northern and southern Germany. Thinking of the Danube as the dividing line,the north will likely be humid, low clouds, coldis, sort of a maritime climate like New York.

The south will likely be colder, freezing temps at night, nor quite a humid, but also cloudy, with some snow, not snow stroems likely, yet. This southern pattern can be interrupted by clear blue sky and cold temps.

So, the answer is: Layers, layers, layers.

treplow

Sorry for the typos, I hit the "submi"t button when I wanted to hit the "review" button. Should read "likely", "coldish","not quite as humid", "snow storms"

Lady

We've been to the Christmas markets in Munich,Germany twice, both times in late December. Both times it was cold, but dry. Each time we were also in Salzburg and Vienna where it was snowy/slushy.

It seems that temps can vary from year to year no matter where you go. If I were you, I'd be prepared for just about anything which means I'll be layering so I'm ok if it's a warm winter and good if it turns really cold. My shoes are always waterproof.

And I always have a good supply of hand and toe warmers (available at Wal-Mart). I always have extra of these. They make amazing gifts for the Germans because they don't seem to have these--at least they didn't 2 years ago. It's a real joy to have one warmed up in your hand and then give it to a young girl in the market, blowing into her gloves to keep her hands warm. The wide eyes and grin will warm you up in a heartbeat

Have a great trip. I LOVE the Christmas markets!

AisleSeat

Wear layers with something that sheds water on the outside. Dont forget either waterproof warm footwear or bring a change of shoes in case one gets wet. Caps and gloves can be very welcome accessories in the cold weather. If it gets too cold at the Christmas markets stop for a cup of gluhwein or pop into a nearby beerhall to soak up the warmth and perhaps a bier.

quokka

Any of the weather conditions mentioned so far can occur anywhere in the country. There are no general rules and each year is different. Better forget about the "North-South" pattern, except for the immediate coastal regions where the humid conditions apply. Everywhere else, prepare for a mix of everything. Experience of 45 winters in this country.

You need a wind-and rainproof outer shell and layers underneath. Scarf, hat, gloves. Footwear is important - warm boots with Goretex lining are my choice. Buy a pair of insulating inlay soles to put into them, they make a lot of difference.