Coming from the US and we plan to stay overnight in one of these two cities in December during Christmas Markets (we'll still visit both no matter what). Which would be your choice to stay the evening during this time of year? We're used to winter, so weather isn't a problem. We've heard Rothenburg is very crowded for the Christmas markets. Is that a problem? Cochem looks beautiful sitting between the hills. We have to pick one for overnight. Staying in Dusseldorf the night before if we stay in Cochem and if we choose Rothenburg, Heidelburg will be two nights prior.
Thanks!

Rothenburg

Heidelburg amazing town castle

also beats the pants of DUS pretty ugly

I would say Rothenburg

Rothenburg.

I'd also choose Rothenburg, because I've seen Cochem and other towns along the Rhine and Mosel flooded at this time of year. Once you're locked in with a booking, it could get complicated. Alternatively, on the Rhine could be Koeln (Cologne), a large city (DH's hometown, so I know it well), which has lovely Christmas markets, copes well IF the Rhine is in flood with amazing barriers, and has a great Christmas atmosphere. Ah, a glass mug of steaming Gluhwein in the cold, standing near fairylighted Weihnachtshuette, in an aura of "Gemuetlichkeit"! Enjoy!

Rothenburg (odT)and Heidelberg - you won't be disappointed if you're going for Christmas Markets. Markets everywhere are busy in the few weeks lead up to Christmas Eve, particularly in the last 2 weeks.

Rothenburg o/d Tauber hands town

http://s918.photobucket.com/albums/a...view=slideshow

Weekends will be much more crowded than weekdays. The tourist office puts out a publication of daily activities. I think it was Wednesdays that the local children had their light celebration; lots of people, but there were more locals than tourists and it was fun to watch the families celebrate together.

COCHEM -Beautiful! (7 votes here to offset the rest!)
Love the setting, and if the castle above is still open off-season...worth a visit

Rothenburg!

Rothenburg! I love Cochem too, but Rothenburg is wonderful!

Rothenburg! It's wonderful, and at Christmas it must be like magic to be there! Have a wonderful time.

Guess I don't need to vote because my choice is winning by a landslide.

I have been to both but for Christmas I would have to say Rothenburg.

Have been to both also and Rothenburg gets our vote! Rothenburg will be much less crowded at night so you'll be able to visit the markets and take in the ambiance. Also, bundle up and take the Night Watchman tour, even in the cold it's fun.
Enjoy your trip.
Susan

Thanks All!
I think based on the overwhelming response, it will be Rothenburg. But we still plan to stop in Cochem on the way to Heidelburg. We'll also drive along the Mosel river back to the autobahn and experience some of the other towns along the way. We like to drive and see everything.

Rothenburg is not nearly as crowded for the Christmas markets as in the high season. We had snow last year:

http://mcchelsea.smugmug.com/Advent-...15010043_U5wQy

Even without snow it can be quite attractive:

http://mcchelsea.smugmug.com/Germany.../6787052_w2d22

Regards, Gary