Area Daily: Christmas Markets in Munich, Germany

City sidewalks, busy sidewalks, dressed in holiday style… no, it’s not New York, its Munich. Get a serious dose of holiday cheer at Munich’s Christmas Market (Nov 28 – Dec 24; 10:00am - 8:30pm), held every year on the Marienplatz. This festive market, which locals say dates from the 14th century, is a great place to pick up some creative gifts for family and friends.

A huge twinkling Christmas tree presides over the stalls selling everything from gingerbread to homemade candles to exquisite glassware from the Bavarian Forest. When you’re tired of browsing the goods, relax with a stein of beer and a Weisswurst, or a warm glass of Glühwein (mulled wine).

Nearby is the totally different Tollwood (Nov 28 – Dec 31), Munich´s fantastic ethnic festival. On the Theresienwiese, this spectacle of tents offers a mix of international music, drama, art, handicrafts and cuisine from all over the world.

While in town, sleep at The Cortiina, a stone’s throw from the Marienplatz, a boutique hotel that’s awfully hip (witness the crowd in the lobby bar, always the measure of a hotel’s social success) and at the same time completely dignified. After a day whizzing about the city, you’ll appreciate the peace and calm of your room.