Germany is known throughout Europe as a prime location to experience the beauty of winter, from its festive Christkindlmarkts to its delicious cuisine. People from all over the world travel to Germany during the holiday season, and crowds can be expected anywhere you go. Despite this, winter time is still highly enjoyable and gives travelers the opportunity to experience the holidays from a German point of view. Though I’ve only been living in Germany for about two months, I was lucky enough to visit last winter and was able to experience a week of Christmas in Germany.

The day I arrived in Germany, my family headed straight to the Mainz Christkindlmarkt. It was located in a square in central Mainz and included large oak barrels which were decorated with fir boughs and had tables that could fit a whole family. There were countless stalls selling everything from beeswax candles to traditional German foods, including bratwurst and Champignons mit Zwiebel, a dish of mushrooms with onions in a garlic sauce. Central to the market was a Weihnachtspyramide, a large carousel that contained Christmas ornaments and candles.

Christkindlmarkts in Rüdesheim and Wiesbaden contained attractions such as a street lit up by enormous flowers made completely of string lights and live music. There were Glühwein stalls around every corner, offering mulled wine to warm up cold shoppers. The overall atmosphere was one of celebration, and everyone was happy to be out and enjoying the festivities, despite the chilly temperatures.

In every square that has a Christkindlmarkt, there is almost guaranteed to be a cathedral of some kind. These churches, sometimes dating back to the Middle Ages, offer a respite from the cold and a chance to view the beautiful architecture that many European churches possess. This includes soaring ceilings, gothic arches and picturesque stained glass that offers a fascinating look into the past of German religion.

Perhaps the most memorable part of my holiday trip to Germany was Christmas Eve Day in Frankfurt, where I was able to witness the Pealing of the Bells. During this event, thousands of people gathered in a square to hear bells from many of Frankfurt’s churches tolling at the same time. This tradition has gone on for more than a century, and it’s truly incredible to hear so many bells of different volumes and pitches being rung at the same time.

Winter in Germany is an incredible experience and gives any visitor a taste of what it’s like to be a German. From wandering the Christkindlmarkts to experiencing a traditional German meal, Christmas here is steeped in tradition and is enjoyable for people of all ages.