Have you vacationed in Austria in the winter?

Question

I am thinking of going to Austria and Germany the first week of December. All my European travel has been Spring and Summer when everything is open and easily accessed. I am excited to see the Christmas markets, but how easy is it to get to other things? For instance, Neuschwanstein Castle. I don't ski and have no interest in winter sports. How cold would it be? Too cold to walk around the towns on the Romantic Road? Thanks.

Answer 1

I have been in Slovakia, just across the border from Vienna, in January.
It was cold, but in the valleys not freezing.
The towns will be charming, as winter is a top time for them and they will have a lot of decorations on already.

Early December is too early for most of the winter-sports anyhow, only on the higher pistes you would be snow certain, (if there,) so you might not see as many people skiing as you would expect.

For sights, search at the name of the town and tourist info, or the name of the sights you are interested in.
I expect many of them to have shorter hours, or less days a week.

Answer 2

Christmastime is beautiful and every town center will have its traditional market! All will be cold, and the further northeast you go, it can get freezing!!! For example, the southwestern Black Forest area along the Rhine has the mildest climes and smaller towns, but you really would need a car. Bavaria -Munich/Augsburg are large cities with the most popular Markets, and also have alot to offer in the way of museums, music, theatre, concerts and within walking distance that you can cover in 7-10 days... and would be my recommendation. From there you can make that side trip to Neuschwanstein by train/bus and then a hike but it is a cold Castle, pretty on the outside-unfinished inside (like all of King Ludwigs)... you will be more thrilled with the Amelienburg Palace in Munich!
Austria is downright freezing cold (minus temps) and VERY expensive... my worst Xmas/New Year's was in Vienna, probably due to the fact that everyone smokes to death there!