I’ve visited over 100 Christmas markets in Europe (sure, actually) and I am right here to inform you: Germany has the most effective. If you happen to’re in search of basic, picket stalls, or off-beat funky traditions, you will discover one thing for everybody on the Weihnachsmarkt in Germany. I am bringing you the most effective Christmas Markets in Germany from all my travels!
I’ve compiled a complete information to the most effective Christmas markets in Germany that can enable you to plan your subsequent vacation getaway. Germany is a rustic steeped in historical past and custom, and its Christmas markets are not any exception. From the festive lights and vacation music to the candy smells of gingerbread and roasted chestnuts, there’s one thing magical about visiting a German Christmas market in the course of the vacation season.
If you happen to’re in search of an unforgettable Christmas expertise, look no additional than a German Christmas market! Full of traditions, historical past, and scrumptious meals, you will not be dissatisfied. In reality, the most effective German Christmas markets are a few of the oldest on this planet and Germans take nice pleasure and element of their traditions.
After I first moved overseas I used to be apprehensive: how might I expertise the magic of Christmas, away from dwelling, in Germany? What I discovered was essentially the most magical, fantastic, and fairy tale-like locations on earth. Particularly at Christmas time.
Christmas in Europe is particular, however the German Christmas Markets are the most effective on the continent. I’ve mapped out my favoriteChristmas Markets together with suggestions, occasions, and a information to take advantage of your time.
There may be nothing like Christmas in Germany, y’all. Hand carved picket stalls promoting essentially the most scrumptious treats, beautiful ornaments, folks singing carols, and shaking gloved fingers and saying “Frohe Weihnachten” (that is Merry Christmas in German). The Weihnachtsmarkts of Germany (meaning Christmas Market in German) are the most effective on this planet.
Fully up to date for 2023! As you may know, most of the markets final 12 months have been canceled. I am completely satisfied to say that it seems that ALL of the markets are open this 12 months! I’ve included dates in addition to maps and all the pieces it is advisable know to plan your journey.
The custom of Christmas markets dates again to the 1300s, and right now’s markets nonetheless echo the appeal of this festive season.
Whereas the massive cities may need flashy shows and a number of markets, do not knock the unimaginable intimate settings of the smaller cities. They typically provide cheaper meals and drinks and the markets have their very own particular aptitude.
I’ve mapped out the most effective Christmas markets in addition to the most effective cities to expertise the magic of Christmas. Beneath every city you will additionally discover dates and occasions for every Christmas marketplace for 2023.
Searching for my information to the most effective Christmas Markets in Europe? Take a look at this publish and itinerary!
1. Cologne
Cologne: greatest Christmas market in Germany! Cologne is already a ravishing metropolis – gargantuan twin-spired cathedral, subsequent to the mighty Rhine River, and stuffed with Gothic structure in a picturesque previous city. However the Christmas market takes it excessive. Which is why Cologne is on the prime of my listing for greatest Christmas markets in Germany.
Brimming with appeal and cheer, there are a number of markets unfold all through town of Cologne. There are seven markets all through town, every bringing a very totally different vibe and ambiance. The market in entrance of the cathedral is without doubt one of the hottest, and for good motive. Lovely, conventional wooden stalls encompass a stage with the backdrop of the cathedral.
Additionally, to not be missed is the Previous Christmas market, aka the Alter Market close to city all. This lovely market appears straight out of a narrative e book with gnomes (Heinzelmännchen) perched on rooftops.
Lastly, you should go to the Angel’s Christmas market. That is the oldest market, held in Neumarkt. You may see ladies dressed up as angel’s handing out treats to kids and sparking white lights atop all of the stalls. It is breathtaking.
Cologne Christmas Market 2023 dates and occasions: Nov 21, 2023 – Solar, Dec 23, 2023 from 11 am to 9pm (Saturdays till 10pm)
2. Nuremburg
Nuremburg: greatest conventional Christmas market in Germany! Nuremburg’s Christmas market is without doubt one of the oldest and most well-known German markets, relationship again to 1530. The purple and white stalls convey up a nostalgia that echo again to the unique Christmas markets that began right here a whole lot of years in the past.
This conventional market presents a ravishing setting in entrance of the Church of Our Woman with a particular child’s choir that performs all through the season on the “Christkindlesmarkt.” The Christkind is an emblem for Nuremburg and dates again to the concept she brings kids their Christmas reward.
Of all of the German Christmas markets that is considered one of my favorites.
Nuremburg Christmas Market 2023 dates and occasions: Sat, Nov 25, 2023 – Tues, Dec 24, 2023 from 10 am to 9pm each day.
3. Aachen
Aachen: greatest Christmas market spirit! Decked out with twinkling lights and lavish squares, your eyes can be a-glow from the second you arrive in Aachen. The Aachen City Corridor is reworked to a festive wonderland, town is brimming with magnificence and twinkling lights, and other people from throughout come to affix in on the merriment of the season.
Aachen is named the historic metropolis of Charlemagne’s reign, however in recent times, they’ve change into a significant vacation spot for Christmas. With stunning Roman ruins and a UNESCO world heritage cathedral, you actually can’t go unsuitable visiting Aachen.
What I really like about Aachen’s market is that it’s unfold all through town however you an get to every spot by strolling! The markets are centered round Aachen Cathedral, Charlemagne Centre, and Aachen city corridor. Aachener Printen (gingerbread) comply with you wherever you go and can direct you in direction of the market.
Aachen’s Christmas market is without doubt one of the greatest embellished and loveliest Christmas markets in Germany. You simply must see it for your self!
Yow will discover my Christmas Market Itinerary proper right here.
Aachen Christmas Market 2023 dates and occasions: Nov 18, 2023 – Solar, Dec 23, 2023, 11m – 9pm each day
4. Trier
The Christmas market in Trier is about towards the romantic backdrop of the Moselle river and the medieval Primary Market. The 95 attractively embellished cubicles present an ideal setting for this glorious occasion, with Trier Cathedral offering a powerful backdrop.
This system modifications each day on the Trier Christmas Market, so there’s at all times one thing new for guests to take pleasure in. Whether or not it is historic puppet theater or a star tenor efficiency, there’s one thing for everybody within the household. Along with scrumptious foods and drinks, arts and crafts from around the globe are additionally accessible. The Trier Christmas Market is without doubt one of the hottest markets in Germany attracting hundreds of holiday makers annually.
Trier Christmas Market Dates for 2023: November 18th by December twenty second, 2023.
5. Heidelberg
Heidelberg: greatest meals at a Christas market in Germany! Now for those who suppose I am biased as a result of I lived in Heidelberg, you then’re completely proper. HOWEVER, there’s something so excellent about this Christmas market. Going down all through the Hauptstrasse, you will discover markets dotted alongside the pedestrian road. Conventional in model, this Christmas market is oozing with appeal. See my full information to Heidelberg’s Christmas Market right here!
There are many retailers, meals, and Glühwein, and even an ice skating rink with a citadel view. However my favourite side are the ornate picket stalls. Every metropolis has its personal distinctive tackle decor, and Heidelberg’s is my favourite. Hand carved stalls bursting with Santas, lights, and full measurement reindeer. They’re a few of the most detailed of all of the Christmas markets I’ve attended.
Heidelberg Christmas Market 2023 dates and occasions: Mon, Nov 18, 2023 – Solar, Dec 22, 2023 from 11 am to 9pm (Saturdays till 10pm) There is a second market that goes till January 1, 2024!
6. Munich
Munich: greatest themed Christmas markets! Munich is the jewel of Germany with a stunning backyard, spectacular buildings, and Oktoberfest celebration. The Marienplatz is already an distinctive instance of European magnificence. However the Christmas market in Munich is a feast for all of the senses.
A spectacle of lights, conventional markets, and a few out-there markets that take celebrating Christmas to a complete different stage. Themed markets in Munich are a few of the greatest Christmas markets in Germany and provide a distinct tackle the standard celebrations.
There is a Christmas market live performance held within the metropolis every day in the course of the season, a Kids’s market, and the Tollwood Market is an ethnic pageant with a glance to celebrations of Christmas everywhere in the world. There’s additionally a homosexual Christmas market at Stephansplaz and a Medieval Christmas Market at Wittelsbacher Platz.
Munich Christmas Market 2023 dates: Nov 21, 2023 – Dec twenty fourth, 2023. Instances are Monday by Saturday 10am-9pm. Sunday 10am-8pm.
7. Baden-Baden
Baden-Baden: greatest place to purchase presents at a Christmas market. This historic metropolis is situated simply on the outskirts of the enchanting Black Forest (the place so many fairytales come from!). Baden Baden has a market happening on a protracted stretch simply exterior their previous city.
You may discover over 100 stalls of arts and crafts, scrumptious meals, and merry-go-rounds. Retaining their market easy and conventional you will discover roasting fish or aromatic spiced nuts all through the stalls. This market stays open a bit later within the 12 months which is ideal for those who’re visiting simply after Christmas!
Baden-Baden Christmas Market 2023 dates: Thurs, Nov 24, 2023 – Mon, Jan sixth, 2024. Open 11am to 9pm each day.
8. Frankfurt
I am not even going to deceive you, I’m not a giant fan of Frankfurt usually. It simply appears like a big metropolis with skyscrapers. It does not maintain the identical appeal as different cities appear to in Germany. With the CLEAR exception of Christmas.
I used to be pleasantly shocked however how nicely Frankfurt does Christmas. I imply… have a look at this view!
Plus, for those who’re coming to Germany from the USA, chances are high you are going to fly in to Frankfurt. So, you may as nicely take advantage of it and expertise this stunning Christmas market!
Frankfurt Christmas Market Dates for 2023: Mon, Nov 21, 2023 – Thu, Dec 22, 2023
9. Speyer
Speyer: most lasting Christmas market in Germany! (As in, the dates go over a month!) The yuletide cheer is at all times discovered within the fairly city of Speyer. The glistening stalls lovingly embellished are the proper scene in entrance of the large church. On weekends there is a craft market that takes place in Metropolis Corridor with presents and trinkets of all types.
It is a nice market to attend in case your coming to Germany proper after Christmas or New Years because the market stays open later.
Speyer Christmas Market 2023 dates: November 21, 2023 by January sixth 2024.
10. Dresden
Dresden: greatest Christmas market views. Dresden transforms itself into the capital of Christmas when the tip of November rolls round. There are a number of markets all through town, however the Striezelmarkt is the most well-liked. This alpine-like market will make you are feeling such as you’ve simply come off the slopes.
Town additionally hosts gospel concert events and presents exhibitions and performs centered round Christmas tales. That is the biggest Christmas Market in Germany and to not be missed! There are 11 (YES REALLY) markets all through town!
Dresden Christmas Market 2023 dates: Nov twenty third, 2023 – Dec twenty fourth, 2023
11. Rothenburg Ob Der Tauber
Rothenburg: greatest medieval Christmas market. Rothenburg: greatest small Christmas market in Germany! This tiny city continues to be surrounded by it is city partitions! Add within the Christmas market and it is really as for those who’re stepping again to medieval occasions. The market may be very small, however the entire metropolis has a Christmas vibe. You may discover decorations in any respect the retailers and shops. Do not forget to go to Käthe Wolfarht, a retailer promoting all the pieces you possibly can doable need at Christmas!
Rothenburg appears like Christmas all 12 months spherical with its Christmas museum and medieval setting, it is positively the most effective German cities for Christmas markets. However there’s one thing particular about visiting “Reiterlesmarkt”, the Rothernburg Christmas Market is called after a legend that claims a horse rider carried the souls of the useless. As Christianity unfold by Europe, he reworked from a scary determine into a delicate man who gave presents to all of the folks on earth.
Rothenburg Christmas Market 2023 dates: Friday, Nov twenty fifth, 2023 – Friday, Dec twenty third, 2023
12. Hamburg
The primary market is in entrance of lovely metropolis corridor and with the Rathaus as a backdrop it makes for a powerful scene. It is a tyoical, conventional Christmas market. However to not fear, Hamburg presents many unorthodox markets.
If you happen to’re in search of a extra distinctive Christmas market expertise, look no additional than Hamburg’s Santa Pauli. This year-round Halloween and Christmas market is situated within the St. Pauli neighborhood, which is thought for its nightlife and red-light district. That is fairly actually a intercourse themed market!
Yow will discover erotic Gingerbread males, intercourse toys and all types of different grownup novelties. It is open year-round, however the Christmas market is unquestionably the most well-liked time to go to.
I really like Hamburg usually as there are many fascinating museums and locations to go to.
Hamburg Christmas Market 2023 dates: Nov 21, 2023 – Dec twenty third, 2023
13. Essen
Referred to as the “Worldwide Christmas Market” Essen’s market presents guests a twist on the standard Christmas market aptitude. It is one of many largest Christmas markets in Germany and nicely definitely worth the cease.
The Essen Christmas market within the metropolis middle is sort of unfold out, with just a few steps between every sq.. The Kennedyplatz is the central focus level the place you may leisurely stroll beneath a cover of twinkling lights whereas being impressed by the entire totally different items accessible from stalls representing 190 nations worldwide. You may discover handicrafts from Africa, Christmas decorations from Israel and jewellery kind the Baltic States—simply to call a number of issues!
Essen Christmas Market 2023 dates: Sunday, Nov 12, 2023 – Mon, Dec 23, 2023
14. Stuttgart
Stuttgart: greatest Glühwein at a Christmas market! The Stuttgart Weihnachsmarkt is exclusive pageant providing the standard market vibes together with some distinctive traditions that make it extraordinarily particular. Throughout Introduction the City Corridor of Stuttgart is reworked into an enormous Introduction calendar. Every day a brand new door is opened revealing a brand new picture and coat of arms showcasing considered one of Stuttgart’s districts. Take a look at extra right here.
Stuttgart Christmas Market 2023 dates: Monday, Nov 21, 2023 – Friday, Dec 23, 2023. Instances are 10am -9pm Monday by Thursday. 10am -10pm Friday & Saturday and 11am-9pm on Sunday.
15. Berlin
Berlin: greatest massive metropolis Christmas market. Berlin is without doubt one of the most visited cities in Germany, and Christmas must be no exception. The baroque palace of Charlottenburg is a ravishing setting for a market full with conventional stalls and embellished timber. There’s an ice skating rink, decoration tents, and even heated areas with dinner served in a comfy nook.
There are over 60 totally different markets in Berlin so that you actually cannot miss it!
Berlin Christmas Market 2023 dates: Mon, Nov 21, 2023 – Sunday, Jan 1, 2024.
16. Dusseldorf
A romantic ambiance crammed with cheer and the candy odor of gingerbread waft all through the city of Dusseldorf. You may discover the markets unfold all through town with Königsallee some of the fashionable spots. There’s 7 totally different markets providing many alternative sights. There is a magical dome of lights, an ice skating rink, and even a Ferris wheel! Dusseldorf is the proper place to deck the halls.
Dusseldorf Christmas Market 2023 dates: Nov 17, 2023 – Dec thirtieth, 2023
17. Mannheim
Situated simply quarter-hour away from Heidelberg, is the larger and extra industrial metropolis of Mannheim. And what town may lack in magnificence, it makes up at Christmas. The massive markets right here provide tons of actions, reside music, and even a fairy-tale nook. There is a part devoted to most of the well-known kids’s tales with reside motion characters to entertain the younger and younger at coronary heart. The most important market takes place proper by town’s grand water tower and presents an array of treats and actions for all ages.
Mannheim Christmas Market 2023 dates: Nov 21, 2023 – Dec twenty third, 2023
18. Tübingen
For years, I used to be instructed to go to Tübingen’s magical Christmas market. That is quintessential German Christmas appeal and feels such as you’ve stepped right into a snow globe. The market is situated on the historic market in entrance of Tübingen citadel. It is one of many oldest and most stunning markets in Germany with a historical past relationship again over 500 years.
There are round 80 stalls arrange, which promote all the pieces from handmade crafts to scrumptious foods and drinks. You may discover loads of gingerbread, Lebkuchen and roasted almonds to maintain your vitality up whilst you discover the market. It is solely open one weekend so you will must catch it whereas it is there!
Tübingen Christmas Market Dates for 2023: December 9 – 11 2023
19. Worms
Pronounced “Voms” this metropolis is thought for well-known Martin Luther showing earlier than the emperor in 1571, kicking off the Reformation. Among the many shiny Christmas decorations and carousels you may see the Luther Monument statues to commemorate the Protestant reformer. This gorgeous market has some pretty embellished stalls, a life-size manger scene, and loads of locations to drink scorching Glühwein.
Worms Christmas Market 2023 dates: November 21, 2023 – Dec 23, 2023
20. Schwetzingen
If you wish to go to a market on the location of a Baroque pink palace than look no additional than Schwetzingen. This market is small, however is nicely embellished and has loads of scrumptious meals. Below white tents tinted yellow within the heat mild, distributors promote mustard, honey, and even delicacies from locations like Italy, France, and Hungary.
Schwetzingen Christmas Market 2023 dates: dates not but introduced however solely on weekends
21. Monschau, Germany
Head to the picturesque city of Monschau, Germany on the border of Belgium. Though this can be a tiny village, it is nicely price it to take a look at this picturesque, half-timbered city. A river rushes by city and cuts between gingerbread buildings within the Eifel area of Germany. The market solely takes place on the weekends (Friday, Saturday and Sunday) from November twenty fifth by December 18th, 2023. However even for those who aren’t there for a market, it is a Christmas city all alongside!
Monschau Christmas Market Dates 2023: Solely on Weekends November twenty fifth – December 18th, 2023
Map and Itinerary
This is a map and itinerary for the Christmas markets in Germany. My suggestion could be to fly in to Frankfurt, try Frankfurt’s market then head north to Cologne and Hamburg and Dusseldorf. Subsequent, head south in direction of Heidelberg, Worms, Schwetzingen, and Mannheim. Then make your manner additional south for Baden-Baden, Stuttgart, and Tubingen. Subsequent head east stopping at Rothenburg, Nuremberg, and Munich. Take a look at my full Germany and France Christmas Market Highway Journey Itinerary
Continuously requested questions on Christmas Markets in Germany
What are the dates for the Christmas markets?
These can vary for every metropolis, however are usually held from the tip of November till the twenty fourth of December. Just a few cities provide Christmas Markets after Christmas.
What number of Christmas markets are there in Germany?
There are over 100 totally different Christmas markets all through Germany. Nevertheless, it is exhausting to calculate since many cities provide smaller markets on the weekend. Likelihood is for those who’re in Germany in the course of the vacation season, you will discover a market!
What are the most effective Christmas markets in Europe?
There are such a lot of fantastic markets that I’ve written two totally different weblog posts! Listed below are a few of my favourite Christmas Markets in Europe after dwelling overseas and touring to see the magic of Christmas.
Do you need to now German to go to the markets?
Nope! In reality, most of the touristy cities are distinctive at English. It’s useful to choose up on a number of key phrases and phrases and I at all times advocate downloading the language on Google translate.
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