Germany, after Christmas
 

Hi,
I am going on an organized tour to various Christmas markets in Germany. The tour ends on 25 December in Munich. I do not feel that I should go home then as I have another week of leave left. I have been to Germany before and have seen the major cities and sights, but I have not been north of Frankfurt. I am thinking of 3 days Berlin, maybe Augsburg, Dresden or even outside of Germany. Any suggestions would be welcome. I am a solo female traveller and plan on using public transport. Thanks.

Berlin is a wonderful city with fantastic museums and is worth more than 3 days. Just be aware that this is a real winter and make sure your clothes and boots are up to par. there is plenty to do indoors if the weather is heavily winter. If you have enough extra days you might also consider adding Prague - not a long trip from Berlin and a fascinating city.

Hi Henda,

One thing you should consider is that Christmas falls on a Friday this year.

That means that shops will be closed on Christmas day, then on the next day, and then shops will be closed on Sunday as usual. That means that you'll have to deal with three full days with all shops closed.

You should be able to find out which museums or sights will be open on those days, so you'll be able to keep yourself busy. If you're near the countryside, you can always take a nice walk, etc. You should be able to find enough restaurants open, too.

Ski towns will be fully operating.

I adore Augsburg, even more than Munich, with its canals and its spiderweb of interesting streets.

But if I were you, I think I would head to Paris. I don't think they have a public holiday on the second day of Christmas, so more things will be open.

Have fun as you plan!

s

Thanks for the advice so far. I have been to both Prague and Paris before. Was looking for a new destination. I am a bit worried about the public holiday and Sunday being closed, but thought I could make the 26th my travelling day. I am so confused and do not want to "waste" my leave. Also, the weather could be a problem as I am not used to such cold weather, coming from South Africa. Will the palaces ( Charlottenburg, Sanssouci, Potsdam) be open on a Sunday?

Best is to check the websites for each individual museum or palace. Many of them will be open on holidays. Also keep in mind that Germany kind of shuts down on the 24th around 1400, but since you will be with your tour group that shouldn't be a problem. Trains will be running on a Sunday schedule.

One can never have enough days in Berlin, so just stay put, maybe take a day trip to Potsdam. Visit as many museums as you can.

Thanks for all the help. I am leaning towards staying the 6 days in Berlin. What would be the most convenient neighbourhood to look for a hotel? A have read that maybe Alexanderplatz or Charlottenburg would be a good base?