The Best Christmas Markets in Germany

It’s the most wonderful time of the year! Again! The days are getting colder and all is slowly turning white. If you’re traveling (hopefully by bus!) between late November and early January, Germany has the perfect way to keep you warm and merry during the holiday season: the Christkindlmarkt. Or Christmas Markets, in plain English.

What is a Christmas Market?

Bustling outdoor Christmas markets have been around since the Middle Ages and are an absolute must-see in Germany. Every city’s square becomes a maze of stalls stocked with hand-crafted ornaments, unique gifts, and local delicacies. Sweet perfumes of gingerbread and hearty aromas of roasting sausages entice your appetite, while the mulled wine is sure to keep you jolly through the night!

Where do Christmas Markets Come From?

Christmas markets date back to the late Medieval Period in Germanic-speaking Europe. Before they were coined “Christmas Markets”, the markets were held over a few days every year, for people to stock up on food and goods before the wintertime.

The Christmas market tradition as we know it took off in the 16th century with Martin Luther, who suggested that children should receive presents around Christmas time (thanks, Martin!). That’s when the winter markets started calling themselves Christkindlmarkts, which literally means “Christ Child Markets”.

What About Christmas Markets Around the World?

Christmas markets have been popular in Germany and Austria for many centuries. But other European countries have decided to jump on the trend and now host fantastic Christmas markets too.

Now, these festive markets are spreading as far as Singapore, the USA, and Canada. So, if you’re traveling to other parts of the world, you can still enjoy some holiday spirit in the UK, Netherlands, Switzerland, Czech Republic, France, Italy, and Denmark, to name only a few.

German Christmas Markets Today

Today, Christmas markets in Germany have evolved into large-scale operations, selling regional specialties made for the season, ornaments, delicious treats and much more.

• When do German Christmas markets start? Most start in late November but some only open in early December.
• When do German Christmas markets end? Some in late December, and others last up to early January.

Make sure you check the dates and opening hours of the Christmas Markets you plan to visit beforehand so you don’t end up missing out on all the fun!

Before you hit the German Xmas markets…

To fully enjoy the Christmas magic as you travel through Germany to visit the best Christmas markets, here are some useful tips:

• Dress warmly and don’t forget gloves, warm socks, and comfortable shoes. If you want to enjoy the full experience, you’ll walk a lot!
• Bring reusable bags. Many vendors do not give out bags to carry your gifts.
• If it’s raining, remember you’ll most likely end up in a crowded area, so wear a good rain jacket instead of carrying around an umbrella.
• Even if it’s Christmas time, watch out for pickpockets! Keep your valuables close, especially when you’re in a crowd.

Which Christmas market is the best?

More than six dozen markets spruce up around Germany every year. We tried, but we couldn’t possibly name one absolute best. To make your life easier, we’ve selected a few based on history, charm and yummy treats. Even better, all are accessible by bus! So here you go — the top German Christmas markets you should visit.

1. Berlin Christmas Markets

It’s only natural to start our best Christmas markets list with the German capital: Berlin. Christmas markets in Berlin start in late November, usually around the 25th, and end by December 31st.

How many Christmas markets are there in Berlin? It may be hard to believe, but there are close to a hundred different markets around the city, all of which are accessible via public transportation.

We realize that it’s virtually impossible to visit all the markets in the city though, even if you’re a local. So, we’ve selected the three best Christmas markets in Berlin. You’re welcome!

The Potsdamer Platz Christmas Market

You won’t want to miss the Potsdamer Platz Christmas Market, because it’s actually a full-blown Christmas party. Bring your skates along, as this Berlin Christmas market features the usual stands, but also a large toboggan and a 500-square-meter open-air ice rink. On weekends, enjoy live music and an after-ski party ambiance. Definitely the place to be if you like to party!

• Dates: The great thing about the Potsdamer Platz Christmas Market is that it usually opens the first weekend of November, which makes it one of the very first markets every season, and ends by January 1st, every year.
• Opening Hours: The Christmas Market is open daily from 10 AM to 10 PM, except on Christmas Eve, when it closes at 2 PM.
• How to get there? Head to the Potsdamer Platz Station (U-Bahn, S-Bahn, Bus).

Insider tips: admission is free and dogs are not allowed.

The Gendarmenmarkt Christmas Market (also known as Weihnachtszauber Gendarmenmarkt)

Located in one of the most beautiful squares in the city, the Gendarmenmarkt Christmas Market is one of the classic markets in the capital. However, due to construction, between 2022 and 2024 the market will be held at Bebelplatz, which is just a short 5-minute walk from the original place.

Renowned for its fine, handcrafted products, it is set in a picturesque and traditional Christmas decor. It features daily live theatre plays, several music shows, and a lovely choir. According to the locals, it’s the most beautiful market in the city.

• Dates: It usually opens on the last Monday of November and closes by December 31st.
• Working hours: Open daily from 12 AM to 10 PM
• Special hours on Christmas Eve: 12 AM to 6 PM
• Special hours on NYE: 12 AM to 1 AM
• How to get there? Get to the nearest metro station: Hausvogteiplatz.

Insider tips: Admission is 1 euro, which is donated to charity and helps finance the various artistic events during Christmas time. Children between 0-12 don’t pay. Dogs, big bags and suitcases are not allowed.

The Spandau Christmas market

The Spandau Christmas Market is the biggest Christmas Market in Berlin, counting over 250 stalls. It is located in the charming district of Spandau, in the old town. What’s great about this Christmas market is that you can walk through the market and the old town for a whole kilometer, while shopping traditional items and tasting delicious food. And, on Fridays, a stage is set up to host “Christmas Meets Rock and Roll” concerts.

• Dates: from the last Monday of November until December 22nd.
• Opening Hours: 
• Monday to Thursday from 11 AM to 8 PM
• Friday, Saturday and Sunday from 11 AM to 10 PM
• How to get there? The Spandau Christmas market takes place on the western outskirts of Berlin, at the end of the U7 line. The nearest station is Altstadt Spandau (which is some 20 to 25 minutes from the center, direct line).

Insider tips: Admission is free and dogs are not allowed.

2. Bremen Christmas Markets

Bremen is a historic city in Northwestern Germany. It is home to a UNESCO World Heritage Site, which is transformed into a festive winter wonderland every year around Christmas time.

Located in front of Town Hall, the Bremen Christmas Market is considered one of the best Christmas Markets in the world and features some 170 stalls in a romantic setting. The backdrop is breathtaking, with the Roland Statue, the 600-year-old Town Hall and the medieval square.

• Dates: from the last Monday of November until December 23rd.
• Opening Hours:
• Monday to Thursday from 10 AM to 8:30 PM
• Friday and Saturday from 10 AM to 9 PM
• Sunday from 11 AM to 8:30 PM

How to get there? You can get to the city by train and getting off at Bremen Hauptbahnhof (main station). Once you arrive, take the south exit and you will find yourself on the way to the city center. You can take a tram and get off Obernstraße stop, which is a very short walk to the square.

Insider tips: We urge you to use public transportation to get to the market! Getting there by car tends to be quite annoying, as parking is limited in the Bremen city center… And the market is quite popular!

3. Frankfurt Christmas Markets

With an international airport and multiple daily train and bus connections, Frankfurt attracts some 3 million visitors annually, of which many come to experience one of the oldest Christmas markets in the World, the Weihnachtsmarkt Frankfurt Römerberg Christmas Market. The city also hosts smaller markets branching off from the main market, but all gathered together in one central location for easy access.

The Main Frankfurt Christmas Market: Weihnachtsmarkt Frankfurt Römerberg

Running since 1393, this Frankfurt Christmas Market is located in the historic quarter of the city around Römerburg and Paulsplatz. What’s so special about it?  It’s huge and got the best food! 

It features some of the best Frankfurt marzipan mix specialties. Remember to taste Brenten, rectangular thick cookies, and Bettmännchen, which are round cookie balls with almonds. The market is also the perfect place to step out of your comfort zone and sample Quetschemännchen, a strange Christmas delicacy that consists of decorated figures made out of nuts and prunes.

It also hosts some great art fairs that you’ll want to check out. These are located within the main market (December 7 to 22, from 12 to 8 PM, closing at 6 PM on December 22) and St Paul’s Church (November 27 to December 22 from 12 to 8 PM, also closing at 6 PM on December 22).

• Dates: November 25th to December 22nd
• Opening Hours:
• Monday to Saturday from 10 AM to 9 PM
• Sunday from 11 AM to 9 PM
• How to get there? Paid parking is available, but if you want to avoid stress, the best way to get to the market is to use public transportation. Simply head to the nearest station: Dom/Römer.

Insider tips: Don’t forget to try hot apple wine, a German Christmas market tradition. Also, the Frankfurt Christmas market is easily accessible for wheelchairs (both main access & bathrooms).

The Main Frankfurt Christmas Market: Weihnachtsmarkt Frankfurt Römerberg located in the historic city center has the best specialty food and goodies!

Adjacent Christmas markets in Frankfurt: Paulsplatz Market, Hauptwache Market, and Mainkai Market

These three smaller markets are all extensions of the main market on the Römerberg. What’s fun is that you can enjoy a calmer setting as well as lovely scenery without going out of your way, since these three Christmas markets are all located in the same district. What’s more, they all have the same dates and opening hours as the main market. 

• The Paulsplatz Market: this Frankfurt Christmas Market is famous for its Wagner’s Honighaus stall: a two-story construction stacked with honey! No worries, you can sample all the products. Simply head to the tasting room on the second floor.
• The Hauptwache Market is located on the busiest shopping street in Frankfurt. Buzzing with action, this Christmas market is a perfect mix of old, traditional markets and modern stores and buildings. Definitely an experience you won’t want to miss!
• The Mainkai Market: enjoy a breath of fresh air as you stroll along the banks of the river Main and discover the Mainkai Market. It’s the perfect spot to escape the crowds of the main market at Römerberg!

4. Stuttgart Christmas Markets

Attracting millions of visitors each year, Stuttgart’s winter wonderland is also something to see! Oh yes, Southwestern Germany knows how to celebrate Christmas. Lively and busy, Stuttgart Christmas Markets reflect both medieval and Nordic themes. There is a main market in the city center, while neighboring towns and villages hold smaller-scale specialty markets.

The Main Stuttgart Christmas Market at Marktplatz

Located on Marktplatz in the city center, the main Stuttgart Christmas market is one of the largest and loveliest in Europe, with some 290 stalls decorated down to the tee, a magical tradition that has been respected for the last 300 years. Unique attractions include specialty candies and handmade ornaments. Starting December 1st, Stuttgart’s town hall (Rathaus) becomes a giant advent calendar with windows lighting up each day leading up to Christmas!

• Dates: November 22 to December 23
• Opening Hours:
• Monday to Thursday from 10 AM to 9 PM
• Friday to Saturday from 10 AM to 10 PM
• Sunday from 11 AM to 9 PM
• How to get there? The nearest stations are Charlottenplatz or Rathaus. 

Insider tips: Make sure also to visit the smaller specialty markets branching off from the main market.

Specialty Christmas markets in Stuttgart

Two lovely specialty markets branch off from the main Christmas market in Stuttgart: the Finnish Christmas Village and the Antique Village at Karlsplatz.

The Finnish Christmas Village

If you’re attending the main market at Marktplatz, all you’ll need to do is walk three minutes and you can discover a traditional Finnish Christmas village. Set up with authentic wooden stalls, it is filled with Finnish specialties, such as Flammlachs (salmon cooked over a fire) and Glögi (Finnish mulled wine). The Finnish Christmas Village holds the same dates, opening hours and directions as the main market, so you shouldn’t have any trouble including them in your day trip to Marktplatz.

The Antique Village

Started in 1984 with the one-week Christmas flea market, this specialty Christmas market officially became the Antique market in 1999. Located right next to the Finnish village, it is the perfect place to find a gift for that special someone, with more than 20 dealers gathered in a heated antique tent. Unique finds include antique books, watches, jewelry, porcelain and much more. An exciting perk? You can bring your own antiques to have experts estimate them on-site!

Important info: Duration & directions are the same as the Marktplatz Market, but on certain specific dates, the opening hours of the Antique market differ from those of the main market:

• November 28, from 6 PM to 9 PM
• December 15, from 10 AM to 10:30 PM, for what is known as the long shopping night!

5. Heidelberg Christmas Markets

Nestled between two mountains in a steep valley in the Odenwald, Heidelberg is known for its romantic cityscape. It hosts several Christmas markets—perhaps not the largest in Germany — but certainly the most romantic. Why? Because the markets are focused on the wintery, festive aspect of Christmas, rather than being overly consumerist.

Spread out across several locations in the old town of Heidelberg, these romantic Christmas markets are all close by and within walking distance of one another. We recommend you follow this simple itinerary to get the most out of your time in Heidelberg.

• First stop, Bismarckplatz. Located at the entrance of the Altstadt (old town), this Christmas market features decorated stands and is definitely the best place to start walking through the markets. If you start here, you can visit a total of six markets on your day trip.
• Next stop is Anatomiegarten. Why stop here? Because the market is known for its arts and crafts … and delicious food stalls!
• Next up is University Square. “Universitätsplatz” is the perfect place to find a unique gift since most of the stalls sell handmade ornaments.
• Then, stop at Market Square. At Marktplatz, discover the heart and soul of the Heidelberg Christmas markets with famous attractions including the Heidelberg Christmas Pyramid and Santa Claus’ House.
• Keep walking and you will find the Corn market. This unusual Christmas market, Kornmarkt, is set with a view of the magical Heidelberg castle — and features a famous Madonna statue you’ll definitely want to photograph.
• Last but not least, head down to Karlsplatz, with your skates! Indeed, this Christmas market is known for its fantastic ice rink, so you can unwind and enjoy some outdoor skating after a busy day of shopping.

All the Heidelberg Christmas Markets are located in the old town. They take place on the same dates and hold the same opening hours.

• Dates: from the last Monday of November until December 22nd.
• Opening Hours:
• From Sunday to Friday from 11 AM to 9 PM.
• Saturdays, from 11 AM to 10 PM.
• How to get there? Get to the Hauptbahnhof—Heidelberg’s main train station through any tram or bus marked for Bismarckplatz and walk the whole length of the markets, starting at the entrance of the Altstadt.

Insider tips: Contrary to popular belief, the Heidelberg castle does not host a Christmas market anymore. It used to, but the stalls were removed in 2016!

6. Hamburg Christmas Markets

If you are planning to head up North while traveling in Germany, make your way to Hamburg, a beautiful German city home to gorgeous harbors and canals.

Quite touristic, Hamburg hosts multiple Christmas markets spread out all over the city. If you have to choose, we recommend that you head to the historical Hamburg Christmas Market at Town Hall and to the Santa Pauli Christmas Market.

Hamburg Christmas Market at the Rathaus (Townhall)

The Hamburg Rathaus Christmas Market is the most famous Christmas market in Hamburg. It’s located at the Rathausmarkt, a lovely setting, thanks to the beauty of the historical town hall that serves as a backdrop.

The numerous stands and huts are decorated with lights and sell traditional Christmas market treats, including handmade ornaments, delicious food, and local products. Alleys are individually themed, which helps focus as you shop! Wood carvings, glass art, food… Artisans regroup so you can shop (and compare) easily.

And to add a little touch of magic, every day at 4, 6 and 8 PM, Santa Claus and his sleigh hovers above the historical market in front of the Hamburg Town Hall.

Dates: from November 17th to December 30th. Closed on Nov/20 and Dec/25.

• Opening Hours:
• Open daily from 11 AM to 9 PM
• On Fridays and Saturdays, the stands are open until 10 PM
• How to get there? The nearest station is Rathaus.

Insider tips: Admission is free!

Santa Pauli Christmas Market in Hamburg

One of the best Christmas markets in Hamburg is located in the Red Light District. True Story! Enjoy the Christmas spirit with a twist by exploring a loud, frivolous and extravagant Christmas market. You’ll be able to shop for x-rated toys, paraphernalia and, for your more conservative loved ones, classic Christmas items. Entertainment flies high, with shows and live music animating the crowds—and to top it off, a giant disco ball. Oh—and one of the coolest things about this unusual Christmas market? It’s open late into the night for party animals, and it’s even child-friendly on weekends, with a dedicated program for kids on Sundays.

• Dates: November 14 to December 23
• Opening Hours:
• Monday to Wednesday from 4 PM to 11 PM
• Thursday from 4:00 PM to Midnight
• Friday and Saturday from 1 PM to 1 AM
• Sunday from 1 PM to 11 PM
• How to get there? Take the U3 to St. Pauli or the S1/2/3/21 to Reeperbahn station.

Insider tips: Admission is free.

7. Nuremberg Christmas Markets

Located in the state of Bavaria, Nuremberg is a popular destination. Located North of Munich, the city boasts Middle Ages roots and sits in a great location, with multiple daily bus connections to every corner of Germany and Europe. In our opinion, the best Christmas markets in Nuremberg are the Christkindlesmarkt, Sister Cities and Children’s market. Find out why, when and where!

The Christkindlesmarkt Nuremberg Christmas Market

With Nuremberg Christmas Market is one of the oldest in the world, as it dates back to 1530. With hundreds of decorated stalls, the Christkindlesmarkt in Nuremberg serves traditional goodies such as Nuremberg Bratwurst and gingerbread cookies.

Located at the Hauptmarkt, it’s definitely the main event in Nuremberg, thanks to its opening ceremony. Every year, to celebrate the opening of the markets, there is music, and a live choir performing on the Friday before the first Advent.

• Dates: From the last Monday of November 25 to December 24,
• Opening Hours: 
• Open daily from 10 AM to 9 PM
• Early closing on December 24, 10 AM to 2 PM
• How to get there? It’s a 15-minute walk from the main bus station (ZOB). You can also take the U1 to Lorenzkirche and then walk for three minutes.

Insider tip: Admission is free.

Sister Cities Christmas Market in Nuremberg

To take a break from traditional German goodies, head to the Sister Cities Christmas Market. Located North of the Hauptmarkt, it hosts some 24 booths, representing Nuremberg’s sister cities around the world! The awesome thing about this market is that it features fine products from across the planet, including Antalya (Turkey), Glasgow (Scotland), Atlanta (USA) and Shenzen (China).

• Dates: November 29 to December 24
• Opening Hours: same opening hours as the Main Christmas Market
• How to get there? One minute walk from the Main Market

Insider tips: Admission is free.

Children’s Christmas Market

The Children’s Christmas Market in Nuremberg is adored by kids of all ages. It features a magical double-decker carousel and many stalls with toys and children’s attractions. The best part? The little train, to get around on site.

• Dates & Opening Hours: Same as the Main Market
• How to get there? The Children’s Christmas Market is located on the Hans-Sachs-Platz, a 2-minute walk south of the Main Market. 

Insider tip: both the carousel and train ride are free!

8. Cologne Christmas Markets

Famous for its massive cathedral, Cologne is the fourth largest city in Germany. It holds many beautiful markets scattered across the city with all the typical Christmas market extravaganza. But Cologne’s best Christmas market is undeniably the Cathedral Market — you guessed it — located in front of the majestic cathedral.

The cool thing about visiting Cologne during the Christmas season is that the city is set up with a small train called the Christmas Market Express, which connects all of the Cologne Christmas markets together. Now, onto our two favorite markets — the Cathedral Christmas Market and the Cologne Christmas Market in Old Town.

The Cologne Cathedral Christmas Market

Located in front of the grand gothic cathedral in Cologne’s city center, the Cologne Cathedral Christmas market is the biggest and most famous market out of all of Cologne’s markets! It is truly magical with the towering church in the background, and it hosts 150 attractively designed wooden pavilions. Live music is performed on a stage, nestled under a roof filled with Christmas lights while you can enjoy both famous regional specialties and organic certified goodies.

• Dates: from the last Monday of November to December 23rd
• Opening Hours:
• Monday to Wednesday from 11 AM to 9 PM
• Thursday and Friday from 11 AM to 10 PM
• Sunday from 10 AM to 9 PM
• How to get there? It is located one minute away from the Cologne central station (Köln Dom/Hbf).

Insider tips: admission is free.

The Cologne Christmas Market in the Old Town

Even more picturesque than the Cathedral Market is the Old Town Christmas market. Located in the heart of Altstadt (the Old Town), this Christmas market distinguishes itself thanks to its famous house gnomes, who, according to a Cologne legend, used to do all the housework.

Huts and stalls sell the usual German Christmas foods, drinks, gifts, and handcrafted gems so you can stock up on gifts with a full stomach. The highlight? This Cologne Christmas Market’s outdoor ice rink is open all day, and its numerous toy stands make this market a great family destination.

• Dates:  from the last Monday of November to December 23rd
• Opening Hours:  from 11 AM to 10 PM
• How to get there? The market is located approximately 200m from the cathedral. The nearest station is Heumarkt (lines 1, 5, 7, 9), but you can also walk from the Cologne central station (it takes about 7 minutes on foot).

Insider tips: Admission is free.

9. Dusseldorf Christmas Markets

Dusseldorf is a chic city and a fabulous place to visit if you’re into art and fashion. Located a short train ride from Cologne, Dusseldorf hosts a fair share of Christmas markets spread across the city.

The best way to visit them all is to start at Schadowstrasse and make your way towards the Aldstadt on foot. And, if you have to pick two, don’t miss the Dusseldorf Christmas market in Marktplatz and the Engelchenmarkt on Heinrich-Heine-Platz. They’re both fantastic, and they open earlier than most markets in Germany.

The Dusseldorf Christmas Market on Marktplatz

The Christmas Market on Marktplatz is the biggest market in the city! It takes place every year in the heart of the old town and features a 100-year-old carousel. Famous for the glass blowers and woodturners who sell their art on the spot, the market also features a vast array of Christmas ornaments, trinkets, and delicious food.

• Dates: November 17 to December 30
• Opening Hours:
• Sunday to Thursday from 11 AM to 8 PM
• Friday and Saturday from 11 AM to 9 PM
• Special hours on December 24 from 11 AM to 3 PM and on December 26 from 2 PM to 8 PM
• Closed on December 25.
• How to get there? The nearest station is Heinrich-Heine-Allee. You can then approximately 5 minutes towards the Rhine.

Insider tips: admission is free. Oh — and don’t forget to try Alt beer, a dark, brownish beer originating from Dusseldorf that’s quite rich in flavors.

The Engelchenmarkt (Little Angel Market) on Heinrich-Heine-Platz

Smaller but oh-so-quaint, the Engelchenmarkt takes place on Heinrich Heine Platz. Catch delicious food and homemade ornaments as you walk through the square.

You can even drink the famous Glüwhein at the music pavilion, which sits in the center of the market. As you browse the various stands, you’ll be illuminated by a sea of lights reflecting the golden angels on all the stalls—a truly magical sight.

• Dates & opening hours: same as the Dusseldorf Christmas Market on Marktplatz
• How to get there? The nearest station is Heinrich-Heine-Allee.

Insider tips: admission is free.

10. Munich Christmas Markets

Home to Oktoberfest, Munich is the third most populous city in Germany after Berlin and Hamburg. During Christmas time, this Bavarian Capital hosts typical Bavarian Christmas markets all over the city. Here are two you won’t want to miss out on.

The Munich Christmas Market at Marienplatz

Happening in Munich’s main square, the Munich Christmas Market at Marienplatz is the largest and most visited market in Bavaria. It overflows beyond Marienplatz and ends up taking over the surrounding pedestrian shopping streets. You can be sure to find a festive ambiance there, with live music starting every evening at 5:30 PM on the balcony of the town hall.

• Dates: from the last Monday of November to December 24th
• Opening Hours:
• Monday to Friday: 10 AM to 9 PM
• Saturdays: 10 AM to 10:45 PM
• Sundays: 10 AM to 8 PM
• How to get there? There is nowhere to park around Marienplatz so public transportation is the only way to get there! Take the S1 — S8, U3, U6 to Marienplatz or get there by Straßenbahn (tram) 19 to Theatinerstraße.

Insider tips: admission is free. We suggest climbing Saint Peter’s Tower at night to see the beautiful market from above!

There you have it! The best Christmas markets in Germany you won’t want to miss. And if you’re planning on traveling by bus, visit Busbud to learn more about buses and trains schedules and how to get around by bus in Germany.