Written by Ann Augunas

In her book “1,000 Places to See Before You Die,” author Patricia Schultz lists the Christkindlmarkt in Munich, Germany as a definite must-see. Considered by many the most famous and certainly one of the oldest and largest of the multitudes of other Christmas Markets (over 2,500) spread across Germany during the holiday season, Munich’s Christmas Market is worth putting on your own wish list for future travel reference. We added a few more to our own list while we were there.

Dating back to the 14th century, some would argue the 16th, today’s Christkindlmarkt magically transports the visitor to that period in time when, even though life was hard and frugally-lived, the joy of the season brought everyone together for celebration as well as providing an opportunity to sell hand-made wares and favorite food stuffs at market. Fast-forward to present time, while still an opportunity for commerce, we found while traveling through these various market places we were wrapped up in the spirit of Christmas in more simple fashion.

Last year, some three million national and international visitors thronged the town squares where markets are set up. We found ourselves among them in the Marienplatz, Munich’s main square. Crowds notwithstanding, the air was electric and the sights delightful. Millions of twinkling lights framed each stall, little huts, trees and magnificent buildings. Folks strolled about taking it all in while sipping steamy mugs of Gluhwein (spicy mulled wine), hot chocolate, or maybe munching on the popular sausage sandwich, delectable treats of steamed or grilled links protruding from a warm bun, or on bags of roasted almonds or chestnuts. Aromas were enticing.

All the trimmings of Christmas filled the stalls and surrounding specialty shops; toys, gingerbread houses, soldier-shaped nutcrackers, glass ornaments, candies and all manner of sweets and fruit breads. Costumed carolers entertained in various spots around the square. Mere steps from the Marienplatz we had the opportunity for a photo op with a Knight Templar and a Crusader, providing us with an almost authentic step back in time.

The nearby Rindermarkt, one of Germany’s largest, focuses on Nativity scenes. Anyone interested in starting their own authentic Nativity Creche will find absolutely everything from fodder for the animals to Magi gifts.

The whole experience allowed us to refresh ourselves on just how many of our Christmas customs, including the Christmas tree, originated in Germany. Especially intriguing, we discovered that whether it was in a hotel, or a restaurant, or even in some upscale stores, the only constant decoration on display besides lights was the Advent Wreath, beautifully displayed front and center everywhere. And as we traveled from one city to another we saw no plastic globes, or Santa’s, or reindeer adorning lawns. The true focus was on Advent, the time of preparation for Christmas.

Leaving southern Bavaria by train from Munich Station, we headed north to the Bavarian region of Franconia, just a short, one-hour ride away, destination Nuremberg where 950 years of history blends effortlessly with a lively, modern urbanity to create an interesting, cultural dynamic. A highlight of this grand city is its amazing 950 year-old architectural heritage that has encapsulated its historic past.

The Nuremberg Christmas Market, Germany’s best known, and said by some to rival Munich’s, is held in the distinctly medieval Hauptmarkt or main market square. It’s an , amazing place - almost out of a movie - with its cobbled stones, its rushing river that winds through the town, half-timbered houses, ancient cathedrals, bridges, old shops, high-end fashion stores and an eclectic variety of restaurants, all within steps of the other.

By now our heads were filled with the sights, sounds, aromas and bounty of the season but Bamberg and Hamburg were still on the horizon. We arrived in the fabulous little town of Bamberg first, City of Dreams, and a UNESCO World Heritage site. While there, our lodging for the night, one of the loveliest hotels we’ve visited, was the Romantik Hotel Messerschmitt. The actual birthplace of aircraft designer of the same name, this boutique hotel has hosted dignitaries from all over the world including princes of the church and world aristocracy. (Overnight was not enough!)

Famous also for a brewing tradition that spans almost 900 years, Bamberg boasts10 privately owned breweries and their taverns that fill the town and allow the visitor many options. And so, a beer-tasting, an evening stroll around yet another enchanting Christkindlmarkt, followed by dinner, ended an all-too-short but perfect day. Next on the list, Hamburg.

To describe Hamburg in a short space is impossible but a highlight was the uniquely enchanting lakeside venue of the Christmas Markets. Lighted boats, a small ice rink, thousands of twinkling lights, happy faces and a lovely Christmas spirit permeated the whole scene. We regretted not having more time to spend.

Finally, while our whirlwind visit to Germany may have left us breathless, the memories of it, the friendly people we met, and all the things we learned will be memories to cherish; a course on history, geography and culture all wrapped up in one lovely Christmas gift.

For information on travel to Germany call the tourist hotline at 1-800-651-7010 or visit www.cometogermany.com.