I know it's early, but I am looking at a brochure that offers two very different itineraries. Both look appealing, for different reasons. Maybe some of you can help me decide.

First, let me say that this would be my first organized tour. I did a solo trip for Christmas Markets in 2008, but did not enjoy it as much as I expected. It was quite a distance from most train stations to the markets, and a bit lonely with no one to share the experience.

Second, it is not so much the markets themselves that interest me as it is the scenery and general ambiance of the areas and towns.

Third, I sometimes walk with a cane and would like towns/hotels where I can easily stroll about on my own if I don't want to go on group day trip.

Both of these tours start and end in Munich, with first and last nights at the Kempinski Airport Hotel. Here are my choices:

OPTION 1:
Innsbruck, 2 nights, Grand Hotel Europa (day visit Hall in Tirol & crystal factory)
Bolzano, 3 nights, Hotel Stiegl (day visits to Ortisei and Merano)
Garmisch: 1 night, Reindl's Partenkirchner Hof

I have always wanted to see the Alps!

OPTION 2:
Annaberg, 3 nights, Hotel Wilder Mann (day trips to Regensberg, Erzgebirge Mts,Seiffen)
Weimer, 1 night, Hotel Elephant (stop in Leipzig)
Bamberg, 2 nights, Romantik Hotel Messerschmitt (day trip Lauscha)

Hotels and towns appear to be smaller and more charming on this itinerary!

Welcome any/all advice!

Christmas season is nowhere more charming than in the Erzgebirge - and Annaberg is right in the middle of these mountains. Hotel Wilder Mann is also very charming, with medieval architecture elements preserved. It is right on the market square where the Christmas Market takes place. So I'd go for the second itinerary. I guess with day trip to Regensberg they mean RegensbUrg (from Munich).

You have a brochure from my favorite Christmas market tour company. I would recommend the 2nd option. Anaberg is a delight and the market is just outside of the hotel. The view from my window, looking down on the market was spectacular! Again, in Weimar, the market is right outside of the hotel, which is very historic. You would certainly enjoy this trip. And Gerhard and Darlene take good care of you. This trip appeals to me, but if you wanted to go to Italy, I'm sure the other one will also be great. Enjoy! CJ

You've gotten good advice. I agree. Tour #2 is in a gorgeous part of Germany, especially at Christmas. All those fabulous German wooden ornaments come from the Erzbirge. I don't think Lauscha is very exciting, but it is home to many glass ornament factories, and some good bargains.

Can i ask what tour company you are looking at?

This the link to the tour company:

www.christmastrips.com

It is based in my home town of Portland, OR and has a good reputation. Small size groups and better hotels than most of the bigger tour companies.

I agree with Ingo, but I read that some of the Erzgebirge markets are open only on week-ends--Ingo is that correct? Yet all the time the tour will be there is during the week (Mon-Wed).

Also, a youtube of the Annaberg market, which is open during the week: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3zz_GF0CW_I

Most of the smaller markets are indeed open only on weekends. But those in bigger towns are open all week (though only for two weeks or so, so watch the dates). Like Annaberg, Schwarzenberg, Schneeberg, Marienberg, Freiberg. And Seiffen e.g. is full of workshops, museum, shops - basically the whole town is a Christmas Market.

CarolJean: What can you tell me about the age range and fitness level of people on Gerhard's Christmas trips? This would be my first organized tour. I have traveled independently in Europe in the past (age 40-60) using public transportation and doing a lot of walking. On my last trip to Germany in 2008 (age 65 and solo) it was much more difficult. I ended up flying home early after seeing just 2 Christmas markets.

I would not want to be a burden on the other tour members. I am a slow walker these days, and sometimes use a cane. My thought is that I could drop out and find a nice cafe near the tour bus to while away the time with a cappucino and my Kindle. On our "home base" days, I could easily take a bus or taxi back to the hotel if I tire. Does this sound logical to you? I don't want a tour where I am a total misfit.

Hi Barbara, have you given any thought to doing a river cruise during the Christmas market time? We've done several and thoroughly enjoyed them, stay in the same cabin all the time, lovely scenery during the sailings, new towns, cities each day with transportation from the ships to the markets, all inclusive and easy to meet people. I did my first river cruise solo in 2006 and had a wonderful time, there were many couples but also groups of women - friends, sisters, who were doing trips, just can't say enough good things. If you're interested take a look at some of the different river cruise companies, Uniworld, Grand Circle and several more. The nice thing about river cruising is the size of the ships, usually only about 130 passengers. Hope this helps.
Susan

Susan,
I did look into the river cruises for my 2008 Christmas Market trip. I'm not sure it's the right option for me.
I like staying in charming old hotels, with lots of free time to stroll around and experience the atmosphere and history of the town(s). I'll check again, though. I know there are some shorter ones with pre or post cruise days on land.

The Christmas cruise I did in 2006 allowed plenty of time to wander on my own through the towns we visited. It was a great way to see the Christmas markets without having to move from hotel to hotel or travel by bus.

Barbara - The age range is 'older' - 40+ with several (quite a few) seniors. You never know who will sign up but the way they are set up, you can do exactly what you said. In Weimar and Annaberg, the hotels are adjacent to the market so you are free to come and go as you please. I don't know the hotel in Bamberg but imagine that is the case there also. I have seen people with some mobility issues hanging around at a cafe having coffee and just soaking up the atmosphere. On the walking city tours you can drop out at some point, etc. I think you would be very happy with the tour company. You would fit in well and would not impact anyone else. Just a personal preference but I would choose it over a cruise. On tour #2 you will definitely see very special places. Any other questions, just ask. CJ

My only comment is on the second one--with only 2 nights in Bamberg, I think an included day trip to Lauscha is a bit too much activity. Both seem rushed with all the day trips.

I love Bamberg. You are in area that is flat. I think you will be very pleased.

en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bamberg

www.bamberg.info/en

pictures
http://www.picturechoice.org/francon...erg/index.html