When I think of Christmas, I think of drawn-out markets filled with delicious food, lovingly homemade gifts and, of course, mulled wine. When I think of Christmas Markets, I think of Germany. This country is without doubt the home of Christmas Markets and visitors can expect to enjoy some of the best ‘street’ food in the world and tonnes of festive cheer. These are the best Christmas Markets in Germany – how many of them can you tick off your list?
The Best Christmas Markets in Germany
Nuremberg Christkindlesmarkt
The Christmas Markets in Nuremberg are some of the oldest and most famous in Germany. The Christkindlesmarkt in the Hauptmarkt is known for its traditional stalls, handcrafted festive ornaments and of course, the vast array of christmassy foods. From Nuremberg sausages, and mulled wine to the traditional gingerbread (Lebkuchen) or stollen, prepare your tastebuds for a journey. Once you’ve checked out the markets, head up to Kaiserburg Castle, where you’ll get great views of the city below.
Open Monday to Sunday 10am to 9pm, Christmas Eve from 10am to 2pm
Open From: 29 November to 24 December 2024
Dresden Striezelmarkt
The Striezelmarkt in Dresden is the oldest in Germany and was established in 1434! This historic market is famous for its giant Christmas pyramid, the world’s largest walk-in candle arch and, of course, Dresden Stollen. The Striezelmarkt also offers a free daily Christmas cultural programme for all ages plus, if you want to unleash your inner-child, you can also ride on the historic ferris wheel. I promise you, it’s fun for all ages.
Open from: 27 November until 24 December 2024
Cologne Christmas Markets
Cologne at Christmas actually features multiple markets. The iconic one is by Cologne Cathedral and is where you can find everything you could imagine. You need to try the Reibekuchen (potato pancakes) and the local waffles, something that Cologne does very well. You can also find local , artisanal crafts and homemade gifts here too. If you have children, from Tuesday to Thursday there is a children’s programme at the Christmas market with Punch and Judy shows, face painting and plays.
If the main Cathedral gets too busy, then no worries; Cologne has plenty of markets to choose from. My favourites have to be the Heinzels Wintermärchen in the Old Town, a magical market inspired by Cologne’s mischievous elves. You can also find an ice skating rink and curling lanes here. For something unique, why not try the Harbor Market along the Rhine, combining festive cheer with maritime flair, or the Medieval Market by the Chocolate museum.
Open From: 18 November to 23 December 2024
Looking for more Inspiration? Check out my post on the Best Christmas Markets in Nordrhein-Westfalen [2024]
Munich Christkindlmarkt
I absolutely love Munich at Christmas time. Bavaria is always magical, but during the festive season it really comes alive. The main market is located in Marienplatz, this market combines Bavarian traditions with gorgeous decorations littered along the streets. You can find all of the classic foods here, from bratwurst to käsespatz, and it just seems to go on forever.
If this is too busy, then try the Medieval Market near Odeonsplatz. I find that this is always quieter and you can find everything you need in one small place. There aren’t as many gift items here, but the food choice is top quality. If you are looking for something a bit different, try Tollwood which is a modern take on a traditional Market. Be warned though; it does get busy and there is a ridiculous amount of choice for food and gifts. It is easily one of the best Christmas Markets in Germany.
Open From: 25 November to 24 December 2024
Looking for More Inspiration? Check out my posts on the Best Food at the Munich Christmas Markets or What to do in Munich at Christmas Time [2024]. For further afield, then check out my post on the Best Christmas Markets in Bavaria [2024]
Stuttgart Weihnachtsmarkt
The Christmas Market in Stuttgart is among the largest and most beautiful in Germany. It is set against the backdrop of the Old Castle and has over 250 stalls and is known for its beautifully decorated wooden stalls and festive atmosphere. Make sure that you try their signature Maultaschen (Swabian dumplings) and their unique Finnish Market.
If you head over to the Schlossplatz, you can also see the children’s fairytale land for families. This is perfect for little ones and features a large ferris wheel, a children’s carousel and even the chance to decorate little gingerbread hearts.
Open From: 27 November to 23 December 2024
Frankfurt Christmas Market
Frankfurt is an underrated German city and has an excellent Christmas Market. The biggest and most iconic market is held in the historic Römerberg square. In 2024, you can find over 200 stalls, all selling a range of different foods and gifts. When in Frankfurt, make sure that you sample plenty of Bethmännchen (marzipan cookies) and mix it up with the delicious Ebbelwoi (apple wine).
If you fancy something a little different, then I would personally head to the Christmas Garden Frankfurt. This is a magical light display set in the Palmengarten and is certainly worth a trip to, especially if you have little children.
Open From: 25 November to 22 December 2024
Rothenburg ob der Tauber Reiterlesmarkt
Considered one of the most beautiful Christmas Markets in Germany, the Reiterlesmarkt in Rothenburg ob de Tuaber offers a romantic medieval setting for visitors. Whilst this is not one of the largest Christmas Markets (54 stalls in 2024), there is still plenty to see and enjoy. Firstly, you need to tuck into some Schneeballen, a deep-fried pastry dusted with powdered sugar. There is also the Christmas Museum which shouldn’t be missed. This is a much quieter Christmas Market experience, but is nonetheless one of the most quintessentially German ones.
Open From: 29 November to 23 December 2024
Hamburg Winterwald Markets
Hamburg has a selection of unique themed markets, offering something a little different this year. Make no mistake though, these are still some of the best Christmas Markets in Germany.
This year, the selection includes the Maritime Market at the harbour and the Winterwald (Winter Forest) where you can stroll among illuminated trees. The largest market in Hamburg is the Historic Christmas Market near the Rathaus (City Hall), where you’ll find over 100 stalls selling a range of different food, drink and gifts. However, I would personally suggest heading over to the Fleetinsel Christmas Market. These are set along Hamburg’s scenic canals, which are beautiful throughout the year. Here you’ll find cozy wooden huts that line the waterways, serving warm mulled wine as you walk along the waterways.
Open From: 25 November to 23 December 2024
Leipzig Christmas Market
Leipzig has some of the largest Christmas Markets in Germany. Usually, the market is filled with plenty of homemade crafts and gifts and is filled with delicious and unique local food and drinks. First up are the Quarkkeulchen, which are sweet potato dumplings, alongside Sachsenschmaus (a hearty traditional dish). You can then wash this all down with the local Heißer Apfelwein (hot apple wine).
One of my favourite things about the 2024 Leipzig Christmas Market is the Märchenwald, a Fairy Tale Forest. This is a magical section of the market where children’s stories come to life. It is just so unique and is definitely a selling point for families.
Open From: 26 November to 23 December 2024
Berlin Christmas Markets
As you would expect from the capital, Berlin offers diverse options for Christmas Markets. First off, you have the elegant Gendarmenmarkt which has to be one of the most beautiful in all of Berlin. If you have little ones, then I would strongly suggest heading to the family-friendly Berliner Weihnachtszeit on Bebelplatz in 2024.
The busiest (and arguably the best) Christmas Market in Berlin is, of course, the Alexanderplatz Christmas Market. Alongside hundreds of different stools, you can also enjoy some ice skating or take a spin on the Ferris wheel. If this is a bit too busy for you, then in true Berlin-style there are some alternative destinations. Firstly, you have the Spandauer Weihnachtsmarkt, which is quieter and set in the picturesque old town. Or, for that different feel entirely, head to the Lucia Christmas Market, offering Nordic-inspired treats.
Open From: 3 November to 12 January 2025
Looking for More Inspiration? Check out my posts on Berlin at Christmas Time: Festive Things To Do [2024]. If you fancy a bit of sightseeing, then make sure you read my posts on the Most Instagrammable Spots in Berlin and the Ten Things You Must See in Berlin
Heidelberg Christmas Market
Heidelberg has, in my opinion, one of the best Christmas Markets in Germany. I just love the quieter side, especially when it is merged with the traditional buildings. The main market is spread across the gorgeous historic Old Town and features cozy stalls, an ice rink, and breathtaking views of Heidelberg Castle. There aren’t many alternative here as Heidelberg is quite small, but it is a top-choice for a weekend break. Trust me.
Open From: 25 November to 22 December 2024
Looking for More Inspiration? Check out my posts on Heidelberg at Christmas Time: December in Heidelberg. If you fancy a bit of sightseeing, then make sure you read my posts on what to do in Heidelberg Germany or the Most Instagrammable Spots in Heidelberg
Düsseldorf Christmas Markets
Next up is a city which is near and dear to my heart. In Düsseldorf you can expect multiple themed markets throughout the city, including the enchanting Altstadt (Old Town) market. I really like this one and it was always a favourite of mine during my time living in the city. I adore the stalls that are based on old local houses, along with the range of food. For something a bit more vibrant, I would suggest the Christmas Market on Königsallee. This year it is all about the lights and this luxury shopping street is transformed into a winter wonderland. Lastly, if you are after
Open From: 21 November to 30 December 2024
Looking for More Inspiration? Check out my posts on what to do in Düsseldorf at Christmas Time! [2024] or 72 Hours in Düsseldorf: The Ultimate Guide to Düsseldorf
Aachen Christmas Market
Aachen has one of the best Christmas Markets in Germany, but it is rather compact and you could probably cover it in a day. It is located near Aachen Cathedral, and is renowned for its festive atmosphere and delicious Aachener Printen gingerbread. Seriously; this stuff is amazing. Once you have walked through the dozens of stalls, make sure that you head over to theKatschhof Square. This year, you can expect plenty of magical light displays and even live performances
Open From: 22 November to 23 December 2024
Final Thoughts | The Best Christmas Markets in Germany
German Christmas Markets are the quintessential festive experience. Whether it be enjoying a bratwurst with a fresh roll, tucking in to some flammkuchen or simply glugging down some glühwein, you can spend days enjoying the various markets scattered across Germany.
