Germany's Best Christmas Markets: A Festive Points and Miles Getaway The holiday season is upon us, and that means it's time to start planning the ultimate winter wonderland escape. For many, a trip to the renowned Christmas markets of Germany tops the list of seasonal must-dos. From the twinkling lights and charming wooden stalls to the steaming mugs of mulled wine and the mouthwatering aromas of freshly baked gingerbread, these traditional European markets offer an unparalleled festive experience. Luckily, with a little strategic planning, you can turn your yuletide dreams into reality using points and miles. Whether you're hoping to wander the centuries-old squares of Munich, get lost in the medieval allure of Nuremberg, or discover the hidden gems of smaller German towns, there are plenty of ways to book an unforgettable Christmas market getaway on a budget. To help you make the most of your holiday travels, we've rounded up a guide to some of Germany's best Christmas markets, along with tips on how to get there using rewards points and airline miles. Munich's Marienplatz Christmas Market Perhaps the most famous of all German Christmas markets, the Christkindlmarkt in Munich's Marienplatz dates back to the 14th century. Set against the stunning backdrop of the neo-Gothic New Town Hall, the market's charming wooden stalls offer an endless array of seasonal delights. Browse the handcrafted ornaments, sample traditional Bavarian fare like bratwurst and potato pancakes, and sip on steaming mugs of glühwein (mulled wine) as you soak in the festive atmosphere. To reach Munich on points and miles, consider booking a flight with Lufthansa, the national airline of Germany. As a Star Alliance member, Lufthansa partners with United, Air Canada, and other major carriers, allowing you to redeem miles from a variety of loyalty programs. You can also look into flying with American or Delta, which both offer nonstop service from several U.S. hubs. When it comes to accommodations, you'll find a range of points-friendly hotel options in Munich, from Marriott and Hilton properties to Airbnb rentals. Nuremberg Christmas Market Dating back to 1628, the Nuremberg Christkindlesmarkt is one of the oldest and most renowned Christmas markets in the world. Held in the city's picturesque medieval Old Town, the market features rows of charming wooden stalls selling everything from handcrafted toys and seasonal treats to traditional Nuremberg sausages and the iconic lebkuchen (gingerbread). The highlight of the event is the daily Christkind (Christ Child) appearance, when a young woman in a golden gown and crown greets visitors from the balcony of the Frauenkirche church. To get to Nuremberg, you can fly into the city's international airport or opt for a connection through a larger hub like Frankfurt or Munich. United, Lufthansa, and American Airlines all offer service to Nuremberg, making it easy to redeem miles. When it comes to accommodations, look for Marriott, Hilton, and IHG properties in the city center to be within walking distance of the Christmas market. Dresden Striezelmarkt Dating back to 1434, the Striezelmarkt in Dresden is the oldest Christmas market in Germany. Set against the stunning baroque architecture of the city's historic center, the market is renowned for its traditional German crafts, lively musical performances, and mouth-watering regional cuisine. Don't miss the iconic Stollen, a dense, fruit-filled Christmas cake that's a specialty of the region. To reach Dresden, you can fly into the city's international airport or connect through larger hubs like Berlin or Frankfurt. United, Lufthansa, and American Airlines all offer service to Dresden, making it easy to redeem miles. When booking accommodations, look for Marriott, Hilton, and Hyatt properties in the city center to be close to the Striezelmarkt. Smaller Town Christmas Markets While the big-name Christmas markets in Germany's major cities are undoubtedly impressive, some of the country's most charming and authentic yuletide celebrations can be found in smaller towns and villages. Consider visiting markets in quaint destinations like Rothenburg ob der Tauber, Cochem on the Moselle River, or the Black Forest town of Gengenbach. These smaller markets often have a more intimate, local feel, with a focus on traditional crafts, regional delicacies, and live music performances. No matter which German Christmas market you choose to visit, planning your trip with points and miles can help you save a significant amount on airfare and accommodations. By strategically redeeming rewards from programs like United MileagePlus, American AAdvantage, or Chase Ultimate Rewards, you can maximize your holiday budget and enjoy more of the festive magic. So, what are you waiting for? Start planning your German Christmas market adventure today, and get ready to immerse yourself in the timeless traditions and unparalleled charm of the holiday season.