The German National Tourist Office welcomes GGC visitors to experience the winter season full of festive markets, cultural cheer, and a layer snow-capped mountains

Dubai, UAE – Germany’s abundant wonderland of mountains, castles, and festive markets have created a well-known status for the country during the winter season, reminiscent of a charming icy fairy-tale. The picture-perfect landscapes surrounded by snow easily makes this season the perfect time to visit. With the temperatures dropping once again, Destination Germany invites travellers to sight-see, ski, hike, snowboard or go sledding at one of the many outdoor parks and recreation areas around.

“Germany’s winter offerings are always popular with our GCC visitors who enjoy the contrast in weather with luscious snow and colder temperatures,” said Yamina Sofo, Director of Sales and Marketing of the German National Tourist Office. “The country offers a variety of activities, fitting for everyone to enjoy from seasonal sports in the alpine mountains, to relaxing spa retreats with lakeside views, Germany is at its best during the festive season.”

The easing of COVID-19 travel restrictions announced by the German Federal Government for all travellers twelve years and above, regardless of individual vaccination status, means those travelling from the Bahrain, Kuwait, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, and the United Arab Emirates, can now enter the country with a negative COVID-19 test taken within 72 hours of travel, a valid vaccination certificate, or proof of recovery.

To take advantage of Germany during the winter season, the German National Tourism Office has collated the top suggested attractions to visit across the country.

Europa Park

Located in the south-west of Germany in the town of Rust, Europa Park is one of the most popular amusement parks in Europe. The attraction, which has won the global title of Best Amusement Park in the World for four consecutive years, is decorated with thousands of festive lights and decor cascading across the walkways throughout the winter season. Along with the thrilling rides and joyful show programmes, the inviting scent of cosy hot chocolate and warm treats will leave any visitor in awe and eager to book their next visit before leaving.

Garmisch-Partenkirchen

The ski town of Garmisch-Partenkirchen in Bavaria is home to Germany’s highest mountain, Zugspitze, standing at 2,962 meters tall. More than 400 mountain peaks, deep canyons, can be explored. Offering adventure and relaxing experiences, the pristine alpine region hosts a cogwheel train and cable car that provide panoramic views. Garmisch is noted as the modernised, trendy area of the region, while Partenkirchen’s traditional cobblestone streets retain the historical Bavarian feel.

Baden-Baden

The breath-taking beauty of the Black Forest is accentuated as snow piles into the pathways of the stunning Lichtentaler Allee Park. A variety of charming cafes are also available for visitors to enjoy a cup of coffee at while taking in the view, or those taking a break from the ski slopes and toboggan runs. For travellers wanting to warm up away from the cold climate, the State Art Gallery Baden-Baden and the Museum Frieder Burda are connected by a glass bridge and open yearly for tourists to explore.

Festive Markets of Cologne

Cologne’s exceptional winter markets are not to be missed when in Germany.  The festively decorated stalls stocked with delicious treats, handmade crafts, and seasonal beverages run all throughout November and December. The charming market atmosphere provides for a calming exploration of Germany whether taking a comforting stroll through the shops or sliding across the ice rinks.

Traditional German Spas

The luscious spa’s across Germany’s Allgäu region offer the perfect wellness retreats for those looking to indulge in a relaxing vacation complete with views of pristine mountains and lakeside views. The #German.Spa.Tradition campaign, running all year round, highlights the innovative thermal springs and baths, health resorts, and spa treatments on offer across the country as Germany celebrates more than 200 years of healing spa practices.

The EU issues and updates its travel recommendations to member states regularly. The safe list is reviewed and revised every two weeks by the EU authorities and members states.