6 Popular Christmas Markets In Germany + 2 Lesser Known Ones

The Christmas markets in Germany are one of the biggest attractions in the winter months. In fact, Germany has some of the best Christmas markets in Europe. As a visitor these fairytale markets are definitely something that you should add to your bucketlist.

I realized just how much joy the bring to the locals after we started living in the Netherlands. Generally speaking the Christmas markets in Germany start off around the 21st of November. This does change depending on the location. What doesn’t change with locations is the fact that the weather is generally dark, cold and wet. Weeks and weeks of this weather can get rather depressing and the Christmas markets give you a reason to get out and find some joy.

People congregate next to the warm stalls to have a cup of mulled wine or eggnog. Even the children enjoy their hot chocolate and with good reason! The markets bustle with activity, there are loads of Christmas souvenirs to check out, fun activities that take place and even merry-go-rounds for the kids.

Now almost every city and town has its own version of the Christmas markets in Germany. I know this because we spent a lot of time exploring the smaller towns that were closer to us. These are generally less crowded and super cute. I highly recommend checking them out too.

I’m going to list out all the popular Christmas markets in Germany but I’m also going to add in the smaller markets that I loved for people who would like to plan a more offbeat route.

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Tips When Visiting The Christmas Markets In Germany

We’ve visited a number of the different Christmas markets in Germany and have realized while the markets are awesome it is always good to be prepared. This is especially true if you are traveling with young children or someone who is elderly. Here are a couple of tips that I put together to make your trip pleasant.

Dress warm: The weather in general is cold and wet so make sure that you layer up. If you get cold, get into one of the stalls that serve warm drinks. They usually tend to have heaters. Keep an eye on your children too especially the ones that are in strollers. Since they aren’t moving about they tend to get cold faster.

Beware of pickpockets: The crowds are insane and it is ripe for pickpockets. Make sure to keep your belongings safe.

Head early in the day to avoid the crowds: If you want to avoid the crowds start off in the markets during the day. In the night, the place gets really packed. Most people head here after work. If you want the ambiance then the night time is the best.

Keep cash on hand: Note that most of the stalls will not accept a credit card so make sure that you carry cash. I would also carry smaller notes rather than larger notes because its easier.

Popular Christmas Markets In Germany

Most of the big cities host the most popular Christmas markets in Germany. The ones that have been at the top of my bucket list are Cologne, Rothenburg Ob Der Tauber and Nuremburg. If you aren’t passing by any of these, don’t worry. Every big city in the country has its own so you won’t miss out.

1. Cologne

Location: Cologne

Christmas market In Cologne dates: 18th November to 23rd December 2024

Getting There: As Germany’s fourth-largest city, Cologne receives numerous international flights to Cologne Bonn Airport Konrad Adenauer. Terminal 2 is a hub for budget flights from across Europe.

If traveling by train, Cologne´s Central Station is well-connected to major cities in Germany. It also offers international high-speed trains linking Cologne to London, Paris, Amsterdam, and Brussels.

Where to Stay: The best area to experience the Christmas spirit and visit major landmarks in Cologne is the Altstadt (Old Town), the city’s medieval quarter along the Rhine River. Here, you’ll find the iconic Cologne Cathedral and the city’s most important museums.

Famous for its stunning Gothic cathedral and rich history, the city of Cologne is known for its long-rooted tradition of Christmas markets in Germany. The first one opened back in 1820.

The Cathedral Christmas Market (or Weihnachtsmarkt am Dom) is the most famous place in the city to enjoy the festive spirit. It is known for a huge decorated Christmas tree at the foot of the impressive Cologne Cathedral. At the red-covered stalls of The Cathedral Market, you can find anything from handcrafted goods to the seasonal delicatessen, like German gingerbread (Lebkuchen). 

Just an 8-minute walk away you will spot Heinzels Winter Fairytale, another unique Christmas market with a large ice rink and lots of traditional handicraft stalls.

St. Nicholas Village (or Nikolausdorf) is considered one of the most picturesque places in the city over the winter holidays and is set by Hahnen City Gate, the remains of Cologne’s medieval walls.

Cologne’s unique Christmas markets, combined with its iconic landmarks, like Cologne Cathedral, Hohenzollern Bridge, and the Romanesque Gross St. Martin Church, make it one of the top Christmas destinations in Europe.

By Anna from Lifestyle Crossroads

2. Düsseldorf

From the airport, you can be in the city in 20 minutes by train. Just one thing to keep in mind: the airport “Düsseldorf Weeze“ is nowhere close to Düsseldorf, but a one-hour drive away from it. (Everyone always wonders, how they got away with naming it like that when it is so far away from the city). So make sure, not to book a flight there. 

Where To Stay: One of the greatest places to stay in Düsseldorf is the Me And All Hotel at the Immermannstraße. From there, you can get to all the major Christmas markets by foot easily.

All year round, Düsseldorf attracts tourists with its cozy atmosphere, local beer and bar highlights, and our Japanese community around the Immermannstraße making it one of the dreamiest places in Germany. But once a year, during Christmas time, there is another reason people frolic in our small city: the Christmas markets.

The thing that makes the Christmas markets in Düsseldorf even more special, is that during December, the whole city turns into one giant Christmas market. In the city center, every major street gets the Christmas market „makeover“ and so, street by street you can discover more and more wonders.

One of my favorite places is the Cornelius Platz which turns into a giant skating rink with their own Alm restaurant attached. Even cozier and more magical is the one area on the Rathausplatz, where you can not only find the best mulled wine in red and white but also the most amazing delicacies every single year.

Although it is hard to compare it with all the other Christmas markets around the world, the one in Düsseldorf remains my favorite of all time because of its variety of stalls and décor. Every year, it changes and yet, the classics remain.

For those who also want to explore a little further than just the city center: only a 25-minute tram ride away with the U72, you will get to Schloss Benrath, a pastel pink palace where you can find a charming small Christmas market where you can find the best food possible and most wonderful Christmas gifts. 

By Paula from La Vie En Marine

3. Hamburg

Location: Hamburg, Germany

Christmas market In Hamburg dates: 18th November to 29th December 2024 (It however depends on the market because the individual markets have different dates.)

Getting There: The easiest way to get to Hamburg is by plane. The international airport is located only half an hour away by train from the city centre. Alternatively, you can arrive to Hamburg by train, with direct trains from the major cities in Germany. 

Where To Stay: Hamburg can be very expensive when it comes to accommodation. A great place to stay is Villa Viva, located 15-20 minutes walk from the train station, which is a modern hotel with affordable prices. From the train station, the main Christmas market in Hamburg is only 10 minutes walk away.

Out of all the Christmas Markets in Hamburg, one is a bit different. The one located in St Pauli, the city’s Mile of Sin, is dedicated only to adults. Here you will find naughty gifts, questionable tree ornaments and a stripping Santa on weekends.

Make sure to dress accordingly when you visit Hamburg in December, as the temperature can drop to under 0 degrees Celsius. It may even snow, making it a perfect Christmas atmosphere. Plus it houses one of the coolest Christmas markets in Germany. Definitely something that should be on your bucket list for November and December in Europe.

Joanna from The World In My Pocket

4. Nuremberg

Location: Nuremberg, Germany

Christmas market In Nuremburg dates: 29th November to 24th December 2024

Getting There: If you are flying in from Europe, the Albrecht Dürer Airport Nuremberg offers plenty of inexpensive flights and is connected with the center of town via subway. However, for visitors from overseas the airports in Munich or Frankfurt may be more convenient. You can easily reach Nuremberg from either one by high-speed train in about 2.5 to 3 hours.

Where To Stay: Nuremberg isn’t huge and there is good public transportation within the city, so the exact location of your hotel is less important than in some other destinations. The most convenient place to stay may be one of the moderately priced chain hotels near the main train station.

You will find plenty of stalls selling various delicious treats. Don’t miss out on “Glühwein” (Mulled Wine) and “Nürnberger” (the local sausages) in a roll. Of course there are also sweet treats available. Nuremberg is most famous for its “Lebkuchen” (Gingerbread), a must-try delicacy.

If you are visiting the market for some early Christmas shopping you will find lots of interesting treasures. Zwetschgenmännle (little figures made out of prunes), candles, and various Christmas ornaments are probably the most popular items for sale.

In recent years, there have been a number of changes at the Nuremberg Christmas market which have added to its appeal. Near the traditional market you will find a section specifically geared towards families with a couple of rides, child-friendly offerings, and family activities.

Another newer addition is an area dedicated to stalls run by Nuremberg’s international sister cities, like Nice (France) or Prague (Czech Republic).

All in all, the Nuremberg Christmas Market is a top choice amongst the Christmas markets in Germany. The festive season here has something for everyone!

By Kitty From Kitty meets World

5. Rothenburg Ob Der Tauber

Location: Rothenburg ob der Tauber, Bavaria Germany

Christmas market In Rothenburg Ob Der Tauber dates: 29th November to 23rd December 2024

Getting there: The closest international airport to Rothenburg is Frankfurt International. From there you can drive (1.5 hours), take the train (3.5 hours, with changes.) The effort required to get there is 100% worth it!

Where to stay: The Historik Hotel Gotisches Haus Garni, old world décor at this 700-year-old gem, right in the heart of the old town and just steps from the market.

Rothenburg ob der Tauber is one of Germany’s best preserved medieval towns. Here you’ll find a wonderful mixture of half-timbered houses and crooked cobblestone streets. Rothenburg has one of Germany’s best preserved city walls from the Middle Ages, which wraps its way around the entire old town. Christmas in the storybook village of Rothenburg is decidedly magical.

The town is dressed in its Christmas finest with fresh greenery and Christmas trees and twinkling white Christmas lights. Add a little dusting of snow to the scene and you’ll think that you’ve made your way into a winter wonderland scene from a snow globe!

The market is held in the old town square with the historic Rathaus (city hall) as the backdrop. Look closely at the windows, during the Christmas season it turns into a giant advent calendar!

The traditional German Christmas market wraps its way around all sides of the city hall, and in the middle of the square, you’ll find a giant Christmas tree.  Here you can shop for traditional hand made German Christmas gifts, souvenirs and decorations. The smells of roasted nuts, grilled wurst, gingerbread, and Glühwein permeate the air.

Rothenburg is also home to the world-famous Käthe Wohlfahrt store, which is so big you may just find yourself getting lost inside. On the upper floor of the store you’ll find the German Christmas Museum, worth a look if you just can’t get enough of this festive holiday. 

By Angie from We’re Not In Kansas Anymore

6. Stuttgart

Location: Stuttgart, Germany

Christmas market In Stuttgart dates: 27th November to 23rd December 2024

Getting There: Stuttgart Airport is about 20 minutes from the city center by train or car. If you’re taking the train, get off at Stuttgart Hauptbahnhof (main station), and it’s just a 10-minute walk from there. Several buses and trams also stop nearby. Look for routes heading to Schlossplatz or Charlottenplatz.

If you’re driving, there are parking garages around the city center, but it can get busy, so plan for extra time.

Where to Stay: If you are looking to stay as close to the market as possible, choose accommodations near the city center around Schlossplatz. The Mitte area is a great choice, with easy access to shops, restaurants, and public transport.

If you prefer a quieter option, consider staying in the West or Süd districts, which are still close to the market but not as busy.

The Stuttgart Christmas Market is one of the oldest and largest in Germany, dating back to 1692. Located right in the heart of the city center, it is surrounded by gorgeous historic buildings like the Altes Schloss, Neues Schloss, and the Stiftskirche.

But what really makes this market unique are the exquisite stall rooftops. In fact, every year there is a contest to see who has the best rooftop design.

Each stall is decorated with a creative theme, that includes lavish sparkling lights, music, and even animated characters. Some are absolutely jaw-dropping!

There’s also plenty to do at the Stuttgart Christmas Market. You can explore over 280 stalls offering incredible handmade Christmas ornaments, toys, decorations, woollen clothing, and local crafts.

For a bit of fun, be sure to check out the giant Riesenrad (Ferris wheel) for a bird’s-eye view of the market and the iconic light sculptures. If you have young children, then the miniature train ride, carousel and small Ferris wheel are perfect.

Another thing that is unique to the Stuttgart Christmas Market, is the roller rink at Schlossplatz. Skate rentals are available for a small fee and the music always keeps the party jumping!

Of course, you can’t go to a Christmas Market without sampling some of the incredible food. For savoury options, try Schupfnudeln (potato noodles with sauerkraut), Steckerlfisch (whole grilled fish on a stick), or bratwurst on a bun.

If you’re in the mood for something sweet, Dampfnudeln (dumplings filled with fruit compote and covered in vanilla sauce), traditional Lebkuchen (gingerbread cookies), or Schokoküsse (chocolate-covered marshmallows)are great choices.

And last but not least, be sure to grab a keepsake mug filled with Glühwein (mulled wine) or hot chocolate to keep you warm as you explore the market.

By Marianne from Galavanting the Globe

Smaller Christmas Markets In Germany

I personally love the Christmas markets in Germany that are in the smaller cities. These are bustling but not overtly full with tourists. These markets have the vibe that you are going for and are full of fun. These are also a great place to take younger children since there is always space for them to roam about a bit more freely. It is however worth noting that these markets get crowded at night.

7. Bremen

Location: Bremen, Germany

Christmas market In Bremen dates: 25th November to 23rd December 2024

How To Get There: Bremen is just 126 kilometers away from Hamburg. You could choose to drive there or take the train.

Where To Stay: Radisson Blu Hotel Bremen

Bremen is one of the lesser visited Christmas markets in Germany but that’s because most of the the international tourists don’t know about it. The city has two markets. One is the Freibeuterdorf zum Schlachtzaubermarkt. This is a buccaneer themed market that is set up on the Schlachte Weser promenade. I have honestly never heard of a pirate themed Christmas market before this!

My kids absolutely loved the market. Everything from the shops to the food is themed. This isn’t even the main market. Its the smaller side market. The main Christmas market in Bremen is set up on the main square and it is huge! It also seems larger than it is in the night where walking from one end to the next is at a snail pace because there are so many people around!

There’s a huge Christmas tree that is set up, loads of stall that sell hot chocolate, eggnog, mulled wine and more. There are even some iconic stalls that sell souvenirs and Christmas decorations. I absolutely loved browsing in these. The sheer diversity of things to do here makes it one of my favorite Christmas markets in Germany.

8. Leer

Location: Leer, Germany

Christmas market In Leer dates:

Where To Stay: Hotel Frisia

Leer is one of my favorite small towns in Germany and it has one of the cutest Christmas markets in Germany. It isn’t very touristy and most people generally never reach here but its is less than an hour drive away from our home in Groningen, the Netherlands. We head here very often because its a fun break but in the Christmas season this place turns magical. The streets are lit up with lights, the whole town centers turns vibrant and its one huge Christmas market.

You will find that there is a lot going on in this place. There is a huge merry go round that runs through the day and the night. There are plenty of great places to eat. My favorite here are the braadworst stalls where they sell hot toasted sausages that are stuffed into one of the best German bread that I can lay my hands on. My kids call them hotdogs but that’s just not a fair comparison since they are way way better!

There are loads of cool shops in the center of the city and there are plenty of things to do in Leer. So if you want one of the offbeat Christmas markets in Germany on your list then do consider this one!

As you can see, there are so many different Christmas markets in Germany. Each one often feels better than the last one that it becomes very hard to choose. My recommendations is not to try to every location. Instead head to the ones close to you. That way you don’t spend a lot of time running from destination to destination and you will make the most of your vacation.

Other Posts About Germany

• Epic guide to Quedlinburg
• Fun things to do in Emden
• Really cool souvenirs from Germany
• Visiting the cool Schloss Drachenburg
• Fun things to do in Mannheim
• Things to do in Bad Bentheim

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