Local’s Guide: What to wear in Germany in winter
Germany in the wintertime is wunderbar. In general, you’ll find that the winter weather is fresh, cool, and crisp. In the higher altitudes you can run into snow, but cityscapes typically stay just warm enough to avoid any major build up. So between the Christmas markets (Weihnachtsmarkt), skiing, and city exploring, you may be wondering how to dress for Winter in Germany while visiting this central European country. We’ve rounded up a comprehensive packing list for what to wear in Germany in winter - written by locals.
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Winter Weather in Germany
Freiburg Münster
Generally speaking, the climate in Germany is characterized by cold winters with average daily temperatures around 0 °C (32 °F) or slightly above. During the winter months (November - February), snowfalls are quite frequent though generally not abundant (except in Bavaria and in the mountains, and sometimes in the north-eastern plain). For the most part, you can anticipate a wintery mix that is more “wet”.
When visiting the northern regions (see Bremen, Hamburg, Lübeck, Rostock, Kiel) you’ll find weather that is slightly milder. However, it also tends to be more rainy and windy because of the influence of the Atlantic Ocean. In southern Germany, the hills and small portion of the alps have a mountainous climate. This, of course, means colder temperatures and a larger build up of snow.
From our experience, winter is just above freezing with abundant rain.
Check out our trip the the Ravennaschlucht (Ravenna Gorge) Weihnachtsmarkt (Christmas Market)
Waterproof Boots
Whether you’re going out to dinner after a day of skiing in the Black Forest or walking the Christmas Markets of Cologne, you’ll want to make sure to pack along a pair of leather waterproof (yet stylish) boots.
You’ll find that a tall, slip on ankle boot style are particularly popular for men and women alike, due to their versatility and casual-cool appearance.
We particularly love the Women's Kodiak Alma Waterproof Chelsea Boot or the Men's Chase Chukka Boot by Kodiak, a Canadian shoemaker.
Their boots meet all of our must haves: quality construction and workmanship, waterproof, stylish, and a 6 month warranty. These are a no-brainer when it comes to what to wear in Germany in winter.
Wool Socks
Along with your leather boots, we recommend wearing a pair of wool socks underneath to help keep your feet warm for winter in Germany. While it is rare for Germany to have extreme weather, the added wool socks will help to keep you warm during the hours and hours of strolling the cobbled streets.
We recommend socks by Smartwool. Their Women’s Margarita Crew Socks - Merino Wool Performance Socks or the Men's PhD Outdoor Light Crew Socks. The ultra light cushioned bottom allows you to wear these socks all year round for maximum performance in close-fitting clothes.
Plus, they are made from 61% Merino Wool, 37% Nylon, and 2% Elastane, and can be machine washed in warm water and tumble dried on low.
Freiburg Christmas Market (Weihnachtsmarkt)
Comfortable, Lightweight Wool Sweater
Once you land, you will soon notice that German’s like to keep their interiors warm - very warm. As in above 24℃ (75℉) and above. Typically, residential flats and local restaurants alike will be heated with radiators, which means that the heat tends to be more humid than forced air heat like in the United States.
We find it essential to wear lightweight long-sleeved clothing so we can easily transition from the cold outside to the warm temperatures indoors.
We particularly love Burton of London’s line of Merino wool products.
Jonathan's Pick: Burton of London’s v-neck sweater in extra fine merino wool
Ashton’s Pick: Burton of London’s ¾ sleeve Openwork Bib Sweater. The perfect balance of feminine flair and function.
Dark Jeans or Pants
When deciding what to wear in Germany in winter, there really aren't too many rules. The vast majority of Germans keep it simple by wearing dark jeans or pants. The only real item of clothing that they don’t wear in public are stretch leggings.
A common staple in the U.S., the athleisure wear trend didn’t really catch on in Germany… unless, of course, you are going to the gym. In short: leggings do not meet the dress code in Germany.
Casual: An Insulated Puffer Jacket
If going to a casual event or just walking around the city, the dress code in Germany is an insulated puffer jacket. These are extremely common because they fit the first rule of German attire: practicality.
We prefer products from North Face because of their quality of craftsmanship and lightweight construction.
Jonathan’s Pick: Men's Thermoball Eco Hoodie
Ashton’s Pick: Women's Thermoball Eco Parka
Ravenna Bridge Christmas Market (Weihnachtsmarkt)
Dress: A Long Wool Coat
If you plan on going to a more formal event or simply want to look a bit more posh for your European adventures, we recommend purchasing a long length wool coat. We love this classically cool trend with a longer-cut coat that will age well over time. After all, a nice wool dress coat is expensive. You should pick one that will last many years.
Jonathan’s Pick: IKKS Men’s Hooded Coat
Ashton’s Pick: Max & Co. Mid Length Wrap Coat, Long Run in Khaki Green
Wool Knit Scarf, Gloves & Hat
The best accessory for wintertime in Germany is a great pair of gloves, a hat or ear warmer, and a warm scarf. We picked up our set during a trip to Amsterdam from a local Dutch brand called Bickley + Mitchell. When so many wool accessories are bulky, we loved that their products struck just the right balance between functional, slimming and effortlessly cool.
