It’s the most magical time of the year—and we might argue there’s no place more enchanting in December than a German Christmas market. While you can find dreamy Christmas markets from Nice to Prague or Edinburgh to Naples, you can’t ignore the preeminence of a traditional German Weihnachtsmarkt or Christkindlmarkt. After all, Germany has held some of the most magical markets for over five centuries!
If exploring some of the best German Christmas markets is at the top of your travel plans, then dive into our curated list of favorites. We’ve included some of the biggest markets like Nuremberg and Dresden in our guide, but you’ll also see a few Christkindlmärkte (Christ child markets) in smaller towns like Breitnau and Baden-Baden. And if you want to learn some helpful German phrases before you go, trust that German is easy to learn with Rosetta Stone!
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When do German Christmas markets start?
As you decide which of the many Christmas markets in Germany you are dying to check out, verify when each market starts so you can plan your flights and train tickets accordingly. Most Weihnachtsmärkte open in late November or early December, but each market and city is different (and bigger cities have multiple markets).
Some of the smaller markets we recommend visiting are located in southern Germany and may have more limited dates. Most markets close by December 24th, though some extend to January 6.
1. Dresden Striezelmarkt
Dates: Nov. 27-Dec. 24, 2024
Location: Almarkt
“Go big or go home” might be the hallmark of the Dresden Striezelmarkt. Since 1434 A.D., Dresden has held a Christmas market in the Altmarkt square. That’s nearly 600 years! The word Streizel refers to a holiday fruit-filled bread also known as Stollen, which has a history dating back to 1329 A.D. in Dresden.
The mountains near Dresden are filled with mines, so you’ll see a variety of shops in this marketplace with beautiful silver or salt souvenirs (not to mention intricate glasswork and handmade decorations). Stollen is one of the most popular foods to buy here, but you’ll find lebkuchen (similar to gingerbread), mulled wine, pretzels, and much more. Striezelmarkt is considered the largest and oldest Weihnachtsmarkt in Germany, so spend a few hours here shopping and riding the Ferris wheel!
What’s unique: You can take pictures next to a 48-foot wooden pyramid towers that towers over you near a massive wooden arch with candles.
2. Reiterlesmarkt in Rothenburg ob der Tauber
Dates: Nov. 29-Dec. 23, 2024
Location: Marktplatz
Little Rothenburg ob der Tauber has a secret: It’s Christmas time all year long. Inside this adorable, walled medieval city you’ll find cobblestone streets, colorful homes, Christmas stores, and Germany’s only Christmas museum! The love of all things Christmas-related is on display year round, so if you come before the markets start, don’t be surprised if you see a 7-foot-tall Nussknacker (nutcracker) in a doorway surrounded by blooming geraniums.
The Reiterlesmarkt is the crown jewel of the ongoing Christmas celebrations. You’ll likely hear choirs performing traditional Advent songs and contemporary holiday music, too. This isn’t the biggest market you can find, so don’t expect carnival rides here. What you will find is some of the best hospitality and Christmas spirit in the most fairy-tale setting you can possibly imagine. Be sure to buy an authentic German Pyramide that depicts winter or nativity scenes!
What’s unique: We love the local treat called Schneeballen (snowballs), which are fried pastry dough balls rolled in powdered sugar.
3. Weihnachtsmärkte in Frankfurt
Dates: Nov. 25-Dec. 22, 2024
Locations: Römerberg and Paulsplatz areas
Frankfurt has several major Weihnachtsmärkte throughout the city and sponsors several Christmas markets in major cities in Great Britain. The market in the square called Römerberg is likely the most popular and dates back to 1393 A.D.! The early markets only allowed Frankfurt residents to join, but now it’s a popular destination to hit up several markets at once.
The traditional Tannenbaum (fir tree) has a grand place in this market, and nearby you’ll also find an incredibly beautiful carousel that you won’t be able to resist. As with all Christmas markets in Germany, coming at night gives you the most magical experience! Don’t miss heading north one block to the market in Paulsplatz to find Wagner’s Honighaus (honey house) for hundreds of honey products, including mead.
What’s unique: Frankfurt specializes in almond treats, so try dozens of types of gebrannte mandeln (candied almonds) and varieties of marzipan called Brenten and Bethmännchen.
4. Rathausmarkt in Hamburg
Dates: Nov. 29-Dec. 22, 2024
Locations: Rathausmarkt or Jungfernsteig areas
Looking for some unique Christmas markets in Germany? Then Hamburg might be your best bet. You can explore over a dozen different types of markets, some of which are reserved for adults. Perhaps most importantly, Hamburg has a strong food market scene, and that carries over into the Christkindlmärkte throughout the city.
You have to stop at the Rathausmarkt (town hall market) as it’s truly iconic. Keep an eye out for Santa Claus who flies overhead three times throughout the day! Kids love exploring the toy street that has train tracks to follow through the stalls. But if you’re here with a romantic partner, you might prefer exploring the dreamy vibe of Jungfernsteig. It’s on the promenade of the lake where you can take a ride on the Ferris wheel and see the glittering lights on the water.
What’s unique: Hamburg has a variety of types of Christmas markets for LGBTQ+ travelers, families, foodies, and honeymooners.
5. Baden-Baden Christkindelsmarkt
Dates: Nov. 21-Jan. 6, 2024
Location: in front of Kurhaus
If you’re heading towards Strasbourg, France, for their famous Christmas market, then don’t miss stopping at the town of Baden-Baden in Germany’s Black Forest. Throughout the year, Baden-Baden is considered one of the best spa towns in Europe, but it takes on a magical vibe during the winter months.
The imposing Kurhaus makes a beautiful backdrop for the Christkindelsmarkt at Baden-Baden. What we really love here is the Trinkhalle where you can wander among dozens of different nativity scenes—many of them handcarved. If you want to try the best Glühwein (mulled wine) in Germany, Baden-Baden is the place to go. They bring a renowned sommelier and wine expert to judge mulled wine offerings, so you’re sure to sample the best.
What’s unique: You can reserve a snow globe igloo to enjoy fondu in a truly magical setting!
6. Stuttgart Weihnachtsmarkt
Dates: Nov. 27-Dec. 23, 2024
Location: Schlossplatz, Schillerplatz, and Karlsplatz
For the most beautiful German Christmas markets, head to Stuttgart. In central Stuttgart, three markets are located within short walking distances and the backdrops of medieval castles make for an enchanted evening. Nearly 300 vendors compete to win the award for the most beautifully decorated booths, which means you might forget to shop as you take in the gorgeous displays here.
Stuttgart’s Weihnachtsmarkt is great for families with kids who want to decorate their own Lebkuchen (gingerbread). You can find all the tasty treats and foods you’d expect to find at a holiday market here too. But make sure you explore all the markets so you can see the beauty of each booth beneath the two major castles here.
What’s unique: Free daily concerts happen in the Renaissance square where you can hear trombone bands, choirs, and jazz.
7. Weihnachtsmarkt in Düsseldorf
Dates: Nov. 21-Dec. 30, 2024
Locations: Altstadt and Corneliusplatz
Many people skip over Düsseldorf when they make their German Christmas market itineraries, but we recommend adding it to the list if you love outdoor winter activities. Düsseldorf may not have the oldest market, but it balances a fun blend of vintage and modern Christmas traditions. You’ll find activities spread over two areas that are close to each other.
In the Altstadt area, you can wander among the booths filled with goodies and gifts while also shopping along Düsseldorf’s most popular shopping area. You get to wander along the Rhine River or overlook it from the 50-foot Ferris wheel. For fun winter activities, head to the Kö on Ice events at Corneliusplatz. Here you and your friends can go ice skating or give curling a try!
What’s unique: Many of the booths in the Altstadt are designed to look like historic burgher houses.
8. Nuremberg Christkindlesmarkt
Dates: Nov. 29-Dec. 24, 2024
Location: Hauptmarkt
Nuremberg might be one of the most famous Christmas markets in Germany, and it’s been around since 1530 A.D. Unlike many markets that are opened by the town mayor, Nuremberg is opened by a Christkind (Christ child), played by a young woman in a golden crown and white robe. Vendors sell more handmade gifts here at the Nuremberg Christmas market in Germany than you might find in other major markets.
Local children are part of a parade of lanterns to the castle that’s really fun to watch, but your own kids can enjoy many of the interactive activities throughout the booths. If you’re an organized traveler, you could download their self-guided tour to explore the best booths, taste the best foods, and learn the unique history of this special market. Look for the stall that sells the face-sized Lebkuchen, some of which are covered in chocolate. They also boast having the largest Feuerzangenbowle, which is flambeed rum over sugar that drips into the mulled wine for added flavor!
What’s unique: Nuremberg is known for their special bratwursts that are smaller than most German bratwursts; order them like a local by saying Drei im Weggla (three in a bun)!
9. Ravennaschlucht Weihnachtsmarkt near Breitnau
Dates: Fridays through Sundays, Nov. 22-Dec. 15, 2024
Location: Ravenna Gorge near Breitnau
Tucked deep in the Black Forest, about 90 minutes from Strasbourg, France, and Stuttgart, Germany, lies Ravenna Gorge. Stunning in the summer, a tiny wooded area is transformed into a winter wonderland for a few weekends. The Weihnachtsmarkt in Ravenna Gorge near Breitnau is not for everyone, but if you like off-the-beaten-path excursions, then don’t miss this ultra-cozy spot.
You won’t find even 50 vendors here as this Christmas market is set up in the wild outdoors. But the Glühwein is impeccable, the food is hearty and warm, and the handmade decorations are charming. Head to Breitnau and look for the free shuttle to the market in the gorge. You’ll need to buy your tickets in advance as this is the only market on our list that has an entry fee.
What’s unique: You’ll wander a few dozen stalls beneath a stunning 130-foot-tall railroad bridge in a completely natural setting outdoors. The pictures at night will be unforgettable!
10. Weihnachtsmarkt in Cologne
Dates: Nov. 18-Dec. 23, 2024
Locations: Roncalliplatz and Rudolfplatz
The city of Cologne or Köln has one of the most recognizable cathedrals in Europe, so it makes sense that you can find the biggest Christmas market nestled below the towering gray spires. With 4 million visitors each year, the Weihnachtsmarkt in Cologne isn’t one to miss, even if it’s not nearly as old as many other cities.
Many of the stalls at the cathedral market are “half-timbered,” which means they look more traditional and historic. Cinnamon rolls and baked apples are highlights here, but you’ll still find most of your other favorite German foods and treats. We also recommend finding a smaller market several blocks away at Rudolfplatz. This St. Nicholas Village market feels more like the north pole, and you can sip hot drinks served in a Santa boot!
What’s unique: The Weihnachtsbaum (Christmas tree) at the Cologne cathedral market is usually the tallest in Germany!
11. Heidelberg Weihnachtsmarkt
Dates: Nov. 25-Dec. 22, 2024
Locations: Universitätsplatz, Kornmarkt, and Karlsplatz
We love the Heidelberg Christmas markets for their dreamy location on the Rhine River and the castle that towers over the city. While Heidelberg has numerous Weihnachtsmarkt spots you can check out, we recommend the three locations listed above, all within Old Town. It’s unclear how old the tradition of Christmas markets is in Heidelberg, but trust us when we say you’ll fall in love with this smaller city.
The Universitätsplatz is the main square where you’ll find most of the stalls. It’s also a great place to try a Schokokuss which is like a creamy marshmallow covered in sumptuous chocolate. Kornmarkt is filled with Tannenbäume (fir trees) and is appropriately named Winterwäldchen (winter forest). But the most fun place to go is Karlsplatz. It’s just below the Heidelberg castle, so you can go ice skating with the best backdrop ever!
What’s unique: Look for the massive, lit-up pyramid and the enormous water barrel filled with 120,000 liters of water that’s an odd-but-proud symbol of Heidelberg.
12. International Christmas Market Essen
Dates: Nov. 15-Dec. 23, 2024
Location: Kennedyplatz
There are thousands of reasons to go to Essen for their International Christmas Market—they twinkle all evening as part of the massive “Crown of Lights” that spreads over Kennedyplatz in the city center. While other cities focus on the heritage of Christmas markets, Essen has modernized with sustainable practices (green energy, plastic ban, etc.), lots of LED lights, and a focus on international cuisines and goods.
As much as we love the amazing sweets and foods at German Christmas markets, we also love trying other fun foods in Essen like crêpes, churros, kebabs, Peruvian potatoes, and more. And if you really love the medieval vibe, then you’ll be happy to know there’s a section of booths dedicated to handmade soaps, honey products, blacksmithing, and other historic crafts.
What’s unique: The amount of lights used at this market is incredible. You’ll have fun looking for animal statues from every continent that are fully covered in lights!
13. Christkindlmarkt in Munich
Dates: Nov. 25-Dec. 24, 2024
Location: Marienplatz
München, or Munich, is a city that loves to throw a good party. The world’s biggest folk festival known as Oktoberfest is held here each year, so it makes sense that they’d also have an amazing Christkindlmarkt and fun traditions that make it worth seeing. Munich can trace their markets back to the 14th century, but what you’ll find at the Marienplatz today has only been around since 1972.
Beneath the famous Glockenspiel and Rathaus, you’ll be entertained for days by events like open caroling on Wednesday nights, live music played from the balconies of the town hall, and a Himmelswerkstatt or workshop for children to do crafts. We highly recommend getting Käsespätzle (cheesy noodles) as you explore the food market here. And don’t miss the famous Krampuslauf or Krampus Run where hundreds of people dress up in scary costumes (as the counterpart to Santa Claus) and run several blocks.
What’s unique: You’ll find the largest nativity scenes here at Marienplatz and St. Peter’s Church, but also head over to the Munich Residence to find a Hansel and Gretel wonderland with puppet shows!
Frequently asked questions about German Christmas markets
With so many places to travel to, you might be wondering if it’s worth exploring Germany during the Christmas season and what you’d encounter there. Here are some answers to frequently asked questions that can shed some light on the adventures you’ll find.
What happens at a German Christmas market?
A traditional Weihnachtsmarkt is a beautiful holiday festival in the main square(s) of a city. Vendors decorate their stalls and sell homemade crafts, toys, pyramids, nativities, and other products. Perhaps the most famous part of a German Christmas market is the mulled wine known as Glühwein, which has a nonalcoholic version, too.
Delicious foods, especially local delicacies, are sold at each market. Depending on the size of the market, you’ll find carnival rides, like carousels and Ferris wheels, and there are often activities specifically for children to enjoy. Christmas music plays a big role in many markets, so you’ll hear carolers or bands playing live music at various times.
What can you buy at a Christmas market in Germany?
Many vendors will sell nativity scenes, some of which are called Pyramide. These can be a single or multi-layered pyramid with a variety of characters that usually depict the nativity. You’ll also find Nussknacker (nutcracker figures), stockings, children’s wooden toys, handmade ornaments and soap, gems and jewelry, Honig (honey) products, sweaters, scarves, and so much more.
What food and drinks should I try at a traditional Weihnachtsmarkt?
You’ll find many familiar favorites at most Weihnachtsmärkte, but some cities will also have specialty foods that stand out. Some of the most popular drinks you can buy include:
- Glühwein (mulled wine)
- heiße Schokolade (hot chocolate)
- Apfelpunsch (apple punch)
- Eierpunsch (eggnog)
- Kinderpunsch (children’s punch)
We recommend trying any of these foods at a Christmas market:
- Gebrannte Mandeln (candied almonds)
- Marzipan
- Lebkuchen (similar to gingerbread)
- Würsten (sausages)
- Käsespätzle (cheesy noodles)
- Stollen (fruit-filled holiday bread)
- Brezeln (pretzels)
- Kartoffelpuffer (potato pancakes)
- Maroni (roasted chestnuts)
- Raclette (melted cheese on bread)
- Schupfnudeln (German potato dumplings)
- Frikadella (pork hamburger)
- Pommes Frites (fries)
- Germknödel (sweet dumpling with jam)
- Baumstreizel (chimney cone from Hungary/Czech Republic)
What is the best German Christmas market?
It’s difficult to pick a single best market as each one is unique! You might prefer the larger cities like Dresden for their large, historic markets and variety of activities. Nuremberg’s market might be one of the most beloved for its size and the religious traditions surrounding the Christ child celebration.
We also think the smaller cities have the best Christkindlmärkte since there are fewer crowds and more unique gifts to buy from local vendors. If that’s the case, you might say that Baden-Baden or Rothenburg ob der Tauber have the best Christmas markets.
Do they speak English in Germany at the Christmas markets?
In the largest cities, most vendors will speak English. Some will be very fluent in English, while others will know enough to communicate as you purchase a unique gift or treat. English is spoken widely through Germany, but you will encounter many people who speak little English, so it’s helpful to practice some German words or learn German through Rosetta Stone’s App before you go.
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