Every once in a while, you embark on a trip that fuses holiday magic, cultural immersion, and just enough spontaneity to keep things interesting. Ours was exactly that—a journey starting in Munich right before Christmas Eve, hopping over to Prague (where the holiday festivities refused to pause for December 25th!), then gliding on to Vienna with its regal architecture and vibrant Christmas markets, before returning full circle to Munich to catch our flight home.
We managed to cram all this into roughly eight days (give or take travel time), and although it was fast-paced, each city greeted us with unique flavors, traditions, and a spark of holiday cheer. If you’re considering a whirlwind winter escape to these three capitals (or even just one of them), read on for our detailed itinerary, food and drink highlights, cultural must-sees, and a few practical tips we discovered along the way.
Table of Contents
- Why This Trip
- Getting Around: Trains, Tickets & Timing
- Day 1–2: Munich (Before Christmas Eve & Christmas Eve)
- Day 3–5: Prague (Christmas Day & Beyond)
- Day 6–7: Vienna
- Day 8: Return to Munich & Departure
- Additional Notes & Pro Tips
- Food & Drink Highlights
- Recommended Resources & Cheat Sheet
- Accomodations
- Final Reflections
Why This Trip?
Winter in Europe has always captured our hearts. Yes, it can be cold—sometimes bone-chillingly so—but there’s something uniquely cozy about a city bathed in festive lights, mulled wine aromas, and the possibility of a light dusting of snow. Germany, Czech Republic, and Austria are known for their Christmas markets, classical architecture, and a deep sense of tradition, so we knew we’d be in for an adventure that balanced history with holiday spirit.
We specifically chose:
- Munich for its traditional Bavarian markets, hearty comfort food, and the fact that it’s a major airport hub.
- Prague because while most of Germany shuts down on Christmas, Prague keeps its markets alive, making it the perfect place to spend December 25th without running into closed shops and empty streets.
- Vienna for its grand palaces, art museums, coffeehouse culture, and another wave of Christmas markets. Also, traveling between Prague and Vienna is straightforward by train.
Getting Around: Trains, Tickets & Timing
European Train Travel: Trains are the backbone of travel in this region, and we took advantage of that almost daily.
- Munich to Prague: We booked a train that left shortly after Christmas Eve. If you’re seeking extra comfort or a personal host service, you can go with RegioJet. Otherwise, the standard Czech Railways (České dráhy) trains are reliable.
- Prague to Vienna: Again, RegioJet or other rail companies run this route. Downloading the specific train app or buying tickets directly from the official rail site can save you money—and let you pick your seat.
Timing:
- Christmas Eve & Day: Keep in mind that many places in Bavaria (and across Germany) close early on December 24th, and remain closed on the 25th. Prague, by contrast, bustles through the holiday.
- Public Transport: In major cities like Munich and Vienna, metro and bus schedules might be slightly reduced on holidays, but you’ll still get around easily.
Day 1-2 Munich (Before Christmas Eve & Christmas Eve)
Our flight landed in Munich just in time to catch the tail-end of the bustling Christmas market scene on December 23rd. Stepping off the plane, we felt that crisp winter air—a sure sign that mulled wine and hot chocolate would become our best friends.
Checking In & First Impressions
- Where We Stayed: Many travelers prefer a hotel near Marienplatz or anywhere central, so they can walk to the main attractions. We found a spot not too far from the old town, which kept us close to the action but slightly away from the heavier foot traffic.
- Why Munich First? The logic was simple: it’s often cheaper to fly into Munich than smaller European cities, plus it’s a short train ride away from Prague.
Munich’s Christmas Market Scene
Marienplatz truly glistens this time of year. The market sprawls around the New Town Hall (Neues Rathaus), and a towering Christmas tree presides over the festivities.
- Food Stalls: We indulged in everything from chocolate-covered fruit (raspberries, bananas, strawberries) to hearty sandwiches stuffed with salmon cooked over an open fire. Yes, the line can wrap around the corner, but the payoff is a smoky, savory treat best enjoyed with a side of fresh bread.
- Warm Punch & Cider: While Glühwein (mulled wine) is a staple, we found ourselves reaching for fruit punch or hot cider—non-alcoholic but equally warming in the chilly weather.
- Last-Minute Shopping: If you arrive before Christmas Eve, you can pick up artisan ornaments, handmade nutcrackers, and other unique souvenirs. We grabbed a few star lanterns for friends back home.
Christmas Eve in Munich
- Expect Quiet Streets: By the morning of December 24th, you’ll notice a significant slowdown in the city. Many shops and even some restaurants close early so families can celebrate together.
- Marienplatz Revisited: Some stands were still open in the morning, but by midday, many vendors started packing up. We managed to snag a final round of sweet snacks—think gingerbread hearts and stollen—before the market shut down.
- Evening Plans: Restaurants can be tricky to find open, so we had pre-planned a quiet dinner. It wasn’t the big, bustling meal you might imagine, but it did feel special to savor a slower evening in a usually energetic city.
By nightfall, we were tucking ourselves in early, gearing up for a Christmas Day journey to Prague.
Day 3–5: Prague (Christmas Day & Beyond)
Christmas Day Train to Prague
Leaving a Quiet Munich
On the morning of December 25th, we hopped on a train from Munich to Prague. The stations were hushed, and the entire city felt like it was still in pajamas, opening presents around Christmas trees. It was surreal to see the once-bustling Marienplatz practically empty.
Train Ride Highlights:
- Comfort: We chose a comfortable seat class (you can upgrade on RegioJet for personal host service), but even standard seats are pleasant.
- Scenery: The Bavarian countryside, dusted with snow, morphed into the rolling hills of the Czech Republic. We spent a portion of the ride reading, napping, and just gazing out the window.
Arrival in Prague
Stepping onto the platform at Praha hlavní nádraží (Prague’s main train station) felt like entering a different holiday universe. Whereas Munich was winding down, Prague seemed to be in full festive swing.
- Where We Stayed: Anywhere near Old Town (Staré Město) or within easy reach of the metro is ideal. We stayed at a Hilton few stops few stops from the Old Town.
- First Taste of Czech Christmas: Dropping off our luggage, we practically ran to the Old Town Square to see what was going on—and it did not disappoint.
Old Town Square & Christmas Market
- Vibrant Holiday Scene: Illuminated stalls, a massive Christmas tree, live music or carolers, and the sweet smell of trdelník (a rolled dough pastry grilled on a spit) in the air.
- Food, Food, and More Food:
- Warm Fruit Punch: A top contender for best holiday drink.
- Churros & Crepes: Perfect street treats for fueling more exploration.
- Local Czech Dishes: Goulash in bread bowls, sausages, and potato pancakes.
- Astronomical Clock: The Old Town Hall’s famous clock is extra magical at Christmas. We made sure to see the little show on the hour: a small window opens, revealing figurines of the Apostles.
Exploring Prague’s Highlights
Charles Bridge
- Over 600 years old, this Gothic wonder is best crossed early in the morning or late at night to avoid crowds.
- We climbed the tower on the Old Town side for panoramic views—seeing Prague’s spires, the Vltava River, and the bustle below.
Wenceslas Square
- This area is known for more modern shopping, bars, and restaurants. Even on Christmas Day, it had a lively vibe, especially with families and tourists seeking somewhere to eat.
- Historically, it’s also a site of important Czech national events, so it’s worth reading up if you’re a history buff.
Jewish Quarter (Josefov)
- Home to several synagogues, a Jewish cemetery, and the Jewish Museum. While some places might be closed on certain holidays, we found a few sites open, though check in advance.
- For architecture lovers, keep an eye out for the House of the Black Madonna, a famous example of Czech cubism.
Prague Castle & Mala Strana
- We learned you can walk up to the castle in about 20–30 minutes—no need for a bus or Uber. The route takes you through winding streets and eventually uphill for a grand view.
- Mala Strana below the castle is an enchanting district full of Baroque buildings, quiet gardens, and the vibrant John Lennon Wall—an ever-evolving canvas of street art.
Funicular to Petřín Hill
- If time allows, the funicular ride up Petřín Hill offers expansive city views. There’s also a miniature version of the Eiffel Tower at the summit, the Petřín Lookout Tower.
Additional Tips & Hidden Gems
- Vyšehrad Fort: Less touristy, with historical walls, a park, and stunning views of the river.
- Municipal Prague Library: Known for an optical-illusion installation of infinite books.
- Bars & Nightlife:
- Anonymous Bar (reservations can be necessary).
- Alchemist Bar: A popular, slightly theatrical cocktail spot.
- If you want something truly unique, try Blue Light Bar on the other side of Charles Bridge.
Cheat Sheet:
We had a fantastic Prague cheat sheet from a city tour company that included free walking tours, local tips, and hidden gems. You’ll find a link in the “Recommended Resources” section below if you want to access it for your own travels.
Day 6-7: Vienna
Train from Prague to Vienna
- Tip: Download offline maps for each city. It’s handy for quick navigation and deciding which metro stop or tram route to take.
Vienna: First Night at Schönbrunn Palace Market
We arrived in the early evening and decided to head straight to Schönbrunn Palace. This UNESCO World Heritage site exudes imperial grandeur, and its Christmas market is famed for refined decorations and artisanal crafts.
Synthetic Ice Rink Fail: They had a small synthetic rink set up for kids—fun in theory, but the surface was less than ideal. Our attempt at gliding across it quickly turned comedic. Still, the festive ambiance was worth the minor disappointment.
Hot Drinks & Local Crafts: Plenty of mulled wine, punch, pretzels, and unique souvenirs like handmade ornaments and intricate lace.
Evening Stroll: The palace itself glows under the winter lights. Even if you don’t pay for a full palace tour, walking around the courtyard and market area is magical.
Vienna’s Iconic Sights
St. Stephen’s Cathedral (Stephansdom)
- Standing tall in the city center, this Gothic masterpiece is unmissable. The mosaic-tiled roof is particularly eye-catching, and if you’re up for the climb, you can ascend one of the towers for a scenic view.
- Walking around inside is free for certain areas, though certain chapels and the catacombs tour have an entrance fee.
Naschmarkt
- A bustling food and flea market with a dizzying array of fresh produce, spices, cheese, and international street food. Perfect for a midday culinary detour.
- We grabbed lunch from a variety of stalls—spanning Middle Eastern to traditional Austrian snacks—and capped it off with some sweet baklava.
Albertina Museum
- Famed for its extensive art collections, including pieces by Monet, Picasso, and Degas. Even if you’re short on time, stepping into the entrance hall or gift shop can be an inspiring snippet of Vienna’s rich art scene.
Austrian National Library
- Nicknamed the “Most Beautiful Library in the World,” and for good reason. The State Hall is an opulent Baroque chamber lined with centuries-old books, frescoed ceilings, and statues of Habsburg emperors.
- We booked a timed entry to avoid crowds, though it wasn’t too busy during the holiday season.
Donau Zentrum Mall
- On our last day, we explored a more modern side of Vienna at Westfield Donau Zentrum. After days of old-world architecture and historical sites, it felt surreal to wander a sleek shopping mall. Perfect for last-minute souvenirs or simply warming up indoors.
Culinary Highlights in
Vienna
- Coffeehouse Culture: Viennese coffeehouses are legendary. If you can snag a seat at places like Café Central, you’ll see plush interiors, decadent pastries, and a sense of old-world charm.
- Markets Galore: Between Naschmarkt and the palace stalls, you’ll never go hungry for delicacies like schnitzel, pretzels, and kaiserschmarrn (shredded pancake).
- Modern Eateries: Don’t be surprised if you run into Asian fusion or Middle Eastern spots. Vienna is more international than one might
Day 8: Return to Munich & Departure
With our final day upon us, we caught a train back to Munich. This time, the trip was less about sightseeing and more about convenience—our flight back home departed the following morning. Still, it felt poetic to circle back to where our holiday escapade began.
- Munich Revisited: We had an evening to roam the city’s quieter streets. Many of the Christmas lights were still up, though most official markets had closed post-December 24th.
- Farewell Dinner: Enjoyed one last Bavarian meal—think soft pretzels, potato salad, and maybe a final mug of mulled wine at a local tavern that keeps the spirit alive a bit longer.
- Airport Bound: The next morning, we headed out bright and early to catch our flight home, already reminiscing about Prague’s lively markets and Vienna’s regal halls.
Additional Notes & Pro Tips:
Holiday Schedules
- Germany: December 24th (Christmas Eve) is when most things shut down early, and December 25th can be very quiet.
- Czech Republic: Prague remains vibrant on the 25th, making it a prime spot for holiday travel if you still want that market experience.
- Austria: Check opening times for specific attractions around Christmas—some may have adjusted hours.
Transportation
- Trains: Book in advance for potentially cheaper fares, and consider seat reservations, especially around the holidays when trains can be busy.
- Local Transit: Munich, Prague, and Vienna all have excellent metro/tram systems. We rarely needed taxis or rideshares.
Currency
- Germany and Austria use the Euro (€).
- Czech Republic uses Czech Koruna (CZK). However, many tourist spots in Prague accept euros, though the exchange rate may not be favorable. Having some Koruna on hand is always a good idea.
Clothing & Weather
- Winter temperatures can hover around freezing or dip below, so pack layers, gloves, a scarf, and sturdy shoes.
- Christmas markets generally stay open regardless of weather, so be prepared for drizzle, snow, or just a cold breeze.
Family Friendly?
- Absolutely. Many of the tours in Prague and Vienna cater to kids, and the holiday ambiance is a hit with all ages. Just keep an eye on closing times if you have hungry little ones in tow.
Food & Drink Highlights:
Throughout this trip, we found ourselves chasing the coziest comfort foods and warmest drinks:
- Munich:
- Salmon Hoagies: Roasted over an open flame, often served with a tangy herb sauce.
- Warm Punch or Cider: Non-alcoholic options that feel just as festive as mulled wine.
- Chocolate-Covered Fruit: A guilty pleasure, but who can resist?
- Prague:
- Trdelník (Chimney Cake): Cylindrical pastries covered in sugar and cinnamon.
- Savory Street Food: Sausages, goulash bread bowls, fried cheese (smažený sýr).
- International Eats: Surprising variety from Mexican (Las Adelitas) to modern Czech spots.
- Vienna:
- Classic Viennese Coffee: Sip a melange or an Einspänner at a historic cafe.
- Naschmarkt Delicacies: Cheese, olives, falafel, and sweet treats from every corner of the globe.
- Pretzels & Schnitzel: Traditional Austrian staples that never fail to satisfy.
Recommended Resources & Cheat Sheet:
Prague City Tours Company: We used a fantastic cheat sheet with free walking tours, must-see spots (like the Municipal Library’s art installation), and local food recs. You can find it here:
Cheat Sheet
Train Bookings:
- RegioJet: regiojet.com
- Czech Railways: cd.cz/eshop/en
Free Walking Tour: FreeWalkingTourPrague.eu
City-Specific Tourist Boards:
- Munich: www.muenchen.de/int/en.html
- Prague: Click hereere's the Free Walking tour info
- Vienna: www.wien.info/en
Accommodations:
Final Reflections:
In under eight days, we experienced three distinct takes on Christmas (plus a quick encore in Munich). We reveled in the old-world charm of Bavaria, immersed ourselves in Prague’s lively markets on the very day of Christmas, and finally basked in the imperial elegance of Vienna. Each city presented its own holiday soundtrack—carolers in Prague, classical ensembles in Vienna, and jovial brass bands in Munich.
Despite the brisk temperatures and the sometimes-crowded markets, the sense of warmth and camaraderie was universal. There’s nothing quite like sipping a hot drink under twinkling lights, surrounded by centuries-old architecture, while laughter and music fill the air. It reminds you that even in the modern age, the spirit of the holidays can make time feel slower, softer, and full of wonder.
If you’re thinking of planning a similar trip, our biggest advice is to embrace the moment. Some days you’ll want a meticulously planned schedule (especially on holidays when things might shut down), and other days you’ll want to wander aimlessly—stumble upon that hidden alley or local bar that feels serendipitous.
Until Next Time: As we boarded the plane in Munich for our journey home, we held onto these memories: the glow of the Old Town Square in Prague, the regal corridors of Vienna’s museums, and the heartwarming first bite of salmon on a bun in Munich. We hope you’ll get to experience a similar magic on your next European Christmas adventure.