I have put together for you a list of the best Christmas Markets in Germany. Christmas is my favorite holiday of the year. You are in good hands, as I am quite the expert when it comes to Christmas markets.
It’s that time again. It’s getting colder outside, it’s getting dark earlier and the streets are being lit up. A magical feeling slowly creeps in and you get into the Christmas spirit and the numerous Christmas markets in Germany are already in the starting blocks.
At most Christmas markets you will find the classic mulled wine, sweets and handicrafts. But which is actually the most beautiful Christmas market? Since there are so many, we will show you a selection of the most beautiful Christmas markets in different German regions.
Berlin: Charlottenburg Palace
The Christmas market at Charlottenburg Palace in Berlin is considered one of the most beautiful Christmas markets in Germany.
Since 2008 it has repeatedly been voted the most popular Christmas market. This is mainly due to the romantic flair in front of the magnificent backdrop of the castle.
This is illuminated by elaborate light illuminations. In the various stalls you will find everything your pre-Christmas heart desires, from traditional handicrafts and gifts to gingerbread and mulled wine. A small children’s Christmas market with rides is directly attached to the Christmas market. Always on December 6th, Santa Claus comes accompanied by angels to the Christmas market and hands out little sweets to the children.
Usual opening times: Dates not yet confirmed Address: Charlottenburg Palace, 14059 Berlin
Berlin: Christmas magic at the Gendarmenmarkt
In a Christmassy setting, the Christmas market at Gendarmenmarkt combines visual arts, handicrafts, shows and entertainment as well as culinary delights.
In the large artisan tent you can watch the craftsmen making their products. You can also admire various exhibitions by photographers, wood sculptors and painters.
Various culinary delicacies ensure your physical well-being while strolling through the Christmas market. If it gets too cold while eating, you can retreat to the well-heated gastronomy area and warm up.
Fire artists, choirs, dance groups and acrobats provide entertainment. Entry costs €1.00. More information about the Gendarmenmarkt
Usual opening times: November 21 – December 31 Address: Unter den Linden 7, 10117 Berlin
Berlin: Spandau old town
It used to be an insider tip, but now Berliners in particular appreciate it – the Christmas market in Spandau’s old town.
Definitely one of the most beautiful Christmas markets in Germany, because the streets and alleys become a single Christmas world with a medieval market and a large fir tree.
You will find around 250 stalls here with arts and crafts, gifts and of course lots of goodies. There is also a nativity scene with live animals, which is always an eye-catcher.
Especially popular with families, since Wednesdays are family days. Then Santa Claus comes and takes the children’s wishes and most stands offer reduced admission on this day.
Usual opening times: November 21 – December 22 Address: Carl-Schurz-Strasse 29, 13597 Berlin
Berlin: Domäne Dahlem
The Christmas market on the Domäne Dahlem, once a manor, is also very popular because of its particularly beautiful atmosphere.
Here you will find very special artisans (e.g. glass blowers, goldsmiths, silk painters, hat makers and doll makers). And the workshops with barrel painting, pottery and wood restoration opened their doors at that time.
Various delicacies, such as handmade marzipan, honey and chutney or other delicious country food, ensure your physical well-being.
The cow and horse-drawn carriage rides and the crackling fire basket, where you can warm your hands in between, ensure even more Christmas spirit. Admission is €3.00.
Usual opening times: Every Advent weekend Address: König-Luise-Strasse 49, 14195 Berlin
In NRW there is a Christmas market in particular, which is very popular with visitors and is also really beautiful.
The Christmas market in Cologne at Cologne Cathedral attracts four million people every year. The highlight is definitely the huge red spruce, which stands imposingly and beautifully illuminated in front of the cathedral.
And the around 150 stalls that are set up around the cathedral on the cathedral platform inspire with individual gifts, delicious snacks and of course mulled wine.
There is also a varied program in which more than 100 artists ensure a good atmosphere for young and old. Whether choirs, big bands or solo artists, it will be Christmassy.
Usual opening times: November 21 – December 23 Address: Domkloster 4, 50667 Cologne (Domplatte)
Düsseldorf: Market at Jan-Wellem-Platz
There are also some beautiful Christmas markets in Düsseldorf. The one on Jan-Wellem-Platz is not necessarily the best-known, but it has a special highlight and is becoming increasingly popular with visitors.
Here you can skate in a romantic way on the specially built ice rink in the glow of the glittering fairy lights. If you don’t have your own ice skates, you can rent them on site for €3.00 and put your skating skills to the test.
In addition to bratwurst, stollen and mulled wine, the festively lit stalls also offer beautiful homemade gifts made of wood and wool.
Usual opening times: November 17 – December 30 Address: Jan-Wellem-Platz, 40212 Düsseldorf
The Cranger Christmas market is a real specialty among the Christmas markets in NRW. At the Christmas fair there are not only little stands and mulled wine as you know it, here there is the full show program.
You can skate on an ice rink, curling and watch the big Christmas parade. There should also be an enchanting fairytale forest.
The highlight is the flying Santa Claus, who can fly back and forth and spray sparks. Since the Christmas fair runs until December 31, a large fireworks display is also planned to mark the end of the year.
Usual opening times: November 17 – December 31 Address: Cranger fair, Dorstener Straße, Herne
Dortmund: Christmas market at Hansaplatz
One of the most beautiful Christmas markets in Germany also takes place in Dortmund. In addition, it is one of the largest with around 300 stands.
Here you can stroll through the alleys and find handicrafts, toys, decoration and much more. And you will also find a lot of culinary delights at the Dortmund Christmas market.
For the little ones there is an extra children’s Christmas market. Since 1996, the Christmas market at Hansaplatz has held the record for the largest Christmas tree at 45 meters and 48,000 small lights.
Usual opening times: November 17 – December 30 Address: Hansastrasse 72, 44137 Dortmund
Munich: The Christmas market
There are no Christmas markets in Bavaria. Here they are called Christkindlmarkt and in Munich you will find one of the largest and oldest Christmas markets. With its traditional Bavarian character, it always enchants tourists and locals alike.
On around 20,000 square meters on and around Marienplatz you will not only find old German Christmas decorations and goods from third world trade, but also plenty of food stalls with almonds, stollen, sausages and mulled wine.
What makes the Munich Christkindlmarkt one of the most beautiful Christmas markets in Germany? The Christmas tree in front of the new town hall. This is decorated with 2,500 candles and will surely enchant you immediately.
Usual opening times: November 21 – December 24 Address: Marienplatz 1, 80331 Munich
Everyone is talking about the famous Christkindlesmarkt in Nuremberg. In the middle of the old town, it puts you in a particularly festive atmosphere.
The city became famous, among other things, because of the Nuremberg sausages, which have been a tradition for over 700 years and can also be found at the Christkindlesmarkt. But of course there are also gingerbread, almonds and many other Christmas delicacies. Not to forget: the mulled wine that goes with the Christmas market.
The highlight of one of the most beautiful Christmas markets in Germany is the visit of the Christ Child. From Tuesday to Friday at 3 p.m. you can take a photo with the Christ child and also hand in your wish list.
Usual opening times: November 25 – December 24 Address: Hauptmarkt, 90403 Nuremberg
Rosenheim: Christkindlmarkt Fraueninsel
A very special and definitely one of the most beautiful Christmas markets is the Christkindlmarkt on the Fraueninsel in Chiemsee. You can only reach the romantic winter fairy tale by boat, which is a unique experience.
A very special atmosphere awaits you on the island. In the around 90 stalls you will find the finest handicrafts, gift ideas and of course all kinds of delicacies.
The island Christmas market is only open on the first two weekends in Advent. So you should definitely plan your visit.
Usual opening times: On the first two weekends in Advent Address: Fraueninsel, 83256 Chiemsee
Rothenburg: The Reiterlesmarkt
Medieval Rothenburg will be transformed into a winter wonderland again this year. The Christmas market can look back on a 500-year tradition and not much has changed since then.
The motto here is “More Christmas than a market”. The winding streets and the old houses around the town hall give this Christmas market a particularly romantic charm.
What you definitely shouldn’t miss? The visit of the “Rotheburger Reiterle”. There are also many other performances that will make your visit to Rothenburg special at Christmas.
Usual opening times: November 25 – December 23 Address: Between market square and church square
Esslingen: Medieval Christmas market
In Esslingen, the annual Christmas market is combined with the medieval market. Medieval life takes place at the medieval market with guided tours, archery and other medieval games.
All this makes the market not only one of the most beautiful Christmas markets in Germany, but also the most eventful. At the more than 180 stands you can find everything from wooden toys to soaps and herbs to Christmas decorations.
The highlight is the torchlight procession up to the castle. In addition, you will find fire artists in every alleyway who will throw their torches in the air and enchant you.
Usual opening times: November 22 – December 22 Address: Rathausplatz, 73728 Esslingen am Neckar
Stuttgart: Stuttgart Christmas market
The Stuttgart Christmas market impresses with its lovingly designed stalls with glittering and sparkling light decorations.
That alone makes it one of the most beautiful Christmas markets in Germany. In front of the new castle you will immerse yourself in a unique pre-Christmas atmosphere and be really enchanted. This Christmas market is also one of the oldest in Europe.
The antique market is also part of the Christmas market, where more than 20 dealers offer unique rarities. For the little Christmas lovers there is a children’s fairyland, a fertility tree and a living nativity scene with real animals.
Usual opening times: November 23 – December 23 Address: Stuttgart city center near the main train station
Neubulach: Mine Christmas market
Would you like to experience an extraordinary Christmas market? Then you should spend a weekend in Neubulach in the Black Forest at the Christmas market in the mines.
In the middle of the forest and the mine, you will be whisked away to a magical Christmas world. On the path hung with fairy lights down to the mine you can see the Christmas story and around 50 artisans line the path.
The special feature: You can find part of the Christmas market in a side arm of the tunnel. Definitely unique and therefore one of the most beautiful Christmas markets in Germany. But only to visit on a weekend.
Usual opening times: December 10 – December 11 Address: Tunnel community of the historic Neubulach mines, 75387 Neubulach/Ziegelbach
Ludwigsburg: Baroque Christmas market
A magical winter fairy tale awaits you at the Baroque Christmas market in Ludwigsburg. Not only the arrangement of the stalls of the Christmas market is unique.
These are arranged according to the model of baroque gardens. The imposing angels, which spread their glittering wings over the Christmas market, are also an absolute eye-catcher and put you in a romantic pre-Christmas mood.
In the more than 180 stalls you will find all sorts of nice things such as incense smokers, woolen goods, toys and much more.
So that you can strengthen yourself in between, there is everything your heart desires, from waffles, chestnuts and gingerbread to the typical Swabian wood-fired oven dish.
Usual opening times: November 22 – December 22 Address: Marktplatz, 71634 Ludwigsburg
Sasbachwalden – Germany’s largest gluten-free Christmas market
Be honest: sometimes you zigzag through a Christmas market – from one food stall to another. You can also relax at the Christmas market in Sasbachwalden in the Black Forest if you suffer from celiac disease.
On the 1st weekend of Advent, the gluten-free Christmas market takes place in the festively decorated spa gardens of Sasbachwalden.
On the 2nd weekend in Advent, the themes of the Black Forest feeling and the magic of mulled wine stalls meet. Regional wines and specialties represent the cozy diversity of the Black Forest.
Usual opening times: November 25 – November 27, 2022 and December 3 – December 4, 2022 Address: Kurpark Sasbachwalden, Talstrasse 51, 77887 Sasbachwalden
Lüneburg: Christmas market at the town hall
The Christmas market in front of the historic town hall in Lüneburg is definitely one of the most beautiful Christmas markets in Germany.
In the various Christmas booths you will find wooden decorations, Norwegian sweaters, hand-made candles and lots of gift ideas.
You can also get the salt stone lamps typical of Lüneburg here. A lard cake and a warm mulled wine should of course not be missing from the visit.
A trumpeter, who plays Christmas carols from the balcony of the historic town hall every day at 5 p.m. for all visitors to the market square, ensures the perfect pre-Christmas atmosphere.
An absolute Christmas magic awaits you in the imperial city of Goslar. In the middle of the historic old town with its narrow streets and beautiful half-timbered houses, the Christmas market and Christmas forest inspires with a contemplative atmosphere.
80 rustic wooden huts invite you to stroll and the fairytale Christmas forest made up of 50 romantically illuminated conifers to drink mulled wine or punch.
The great thing about Christmas in Goslar is that you can climb the tower of the market church via the so-called ladder to heaven and watch the whole Christmas spectacle from above. A magnificent view.
Usual opening times: November 23 – December 30 Address: Markt 6, 38640 Goslar
Osnabrück: Historical Christmas market
In the midst of a historical backdrop in Osnabrück you will find one of the most beautiful Christmas markets in Germany. The first Christmas market took place 180 years ago and is still one of the most popular in the north.
What is unique is that the Christmas market does not play atmospheric music in the background. Only the carousel is accompanied by music. This is because Osnabrück is a city of peace and there is therefore no big noise.
That is why it is also affectionately called “the silent Christmas market”. The highlight is definitely the 6 meter high nutcracker and the world’s largest functioning music box with life-size figures.
Usual opening times: November 21 – December 22 Address: Markt 28, 49074 Osnabrück
Hanover: Family Christmas market
The Christmas market in Hanover is considered very family-friendly and delights young and old every year. Around 130 stands offer various handicrafts and Christmas items. The illuminated market church ensures a Christmassy and cozy atmosphere.
With a mulled wine in hand, you can stroll through the alleys past the stalls. Lots of events ensure a varied program, especially for children. Every evening, the end of the events is heralded by a night watchman in costume.
Usual opening times: November 22 – December 22 Address: Hanns-Lilje-Platz 2, 30159 Hanover
The Frankfurt Christmas market is one of the most important in Germany. The unique backdrop in front of the town hall on Römerberg, in the new old town and Paulsplatz also makes it one of the most beautiful Christmas markets in Germany.
The city bell is also impressive. Here, 50 bells from 10 churches ring at certain times. There is also a glockenspiel from the Nikolaikirche on the Römerberg three times a day, which is guaranteed to put you in the festive mood.
For the little visitors of the Christmas market, St. Nicholas will come to visit on December 6th and will definitely have a little surprise with him.
Usual opening times: November 21 – December 22 Address: Römerberg, 60311 Frankfurt am Main
Around the city’s landmark, the white tower, you will find the Christmas market in Bad Homburg in the usual romantic atmosphere.
Hence the name. The hand-carved crib with the life-size figures is particularly unique in the region. Big and small eyes light up when they see the small steam train that tirelessly makes its rounds around the white tower.
Fairy tales and Christmas music are even played for the little ones. The 60 booths offer everything the pre-Christmas heart desires. From cabaret to gift ideas to culinary highlights.
Usual opening times: On all four Advent weekends Address: Weißer Turm, 61348 Bad Homburg v. i.e. Height
Darmstadt: International Christmas Market
Wonderful gingerbread and the scent of mulled wine hovers over the Christmas market at the Residenzschloss in Darmstadt.
What makes the Christmas market in Darmstadt special are the stands of the partner cities. These enrich with handicrafts from Latvia, culinary specialties from Hungary and wine and cheese from Switzerland.
This international diversity alone makes the Darmstadt Christmas market one of the most beautiful in Germany.
Tuesdays and Wednesdays is Children’s Day at the Christmas market, where the little ones can take part in the children’s program and children’s quiz.
Usual opening times: November 21 – December 23 Address: Marktplatz 1, 64283 Darmstadt
Wiesbaden: shooting star market
The pre-Christmas atmosphere in the Hessian state capital of Wiesbaden begins as soon as the tree is put up. This is traditionally inaugurated by the Queen of the Christmas Tree and as soon as it is up, it is decorated with 30,000 LED light bulbs.
On December 27th, the Christmas market will be officially opened with the angels floating from heaven onto the palace square and you can stroll around between the stalls of the artisans. The life-size nativity scene with figures carved from wood is also impressive.
Usual opening times: November 22 – December 23 Address: Schloßplatz, 65183 Wiesbaden
Mainz: Historical Christmas Market
More than 100 festively decorated stalls shine in front of the backdrop of the 1000-year-old St. Martin’s Cathedral on Domplatz in Mainz. Here you will find handicrafts, gift inspiration and of course lots of goodies.
A visit to the artists’ workshop is particularly worthwhile, where Advent arrangements, sewing work and jewelery are made right before your eyes. The 11 meter high Christmas pyramid and the 9 meter music box with its 18 hand-carved angels are particularly worth seeing.
There are also very special events in Mainz at Christmas time. In addition to numerous cathedral concerts, there is the traditional performance of fairy tales in the Mainz State Theater and the printing of Christmas cards.
Usual opening times: November 24th-November 23rd December Address: Markt 10, 55116 Mainz
Koblenz: Traditional Christmas market
At Christmas time, Koblenz becomes particularly romantic and shows its dreamy side. More than 100 stalls are spread across the six old town squares and offer a wide variety of handicrafts and delicacies.
There is also an ice skating rink in front of the modern backdrop of the Confluentes, which really puts you in the pre-Christmas mood. For the little visitors there is a Christmas bakery where they can bake delicious cookies.
In the 24 dormers of the baroque town hall you will find an advent calendar with various Christmas pictures. Up to 300,000 visitors are expected to visit the traditional Christmas market in Koblenz this year.
Usual opening times: 18 November 22 – 08 January 23 Address: Altstadt, 56068 Koblenz
Here in Worms, the Christmas season is linked to the Nibelungen saga, creating a contemplative and even magical atmosphere.
The fact that the people of Worms identify very much with their city can also be seen at the Christmas market. Because here you will find mulled wine from winemakers in the region as well as clubs and private individuals who present their products.
You can really feel the magic of the Nibelung everywhere, including in the “Nibelung Christmas Workshop”. Here you get insights into the craftsmanship and you can let your creativity run free. The little ones can also listen to fairytale stories.
Usual opening times: November – December Address: Obermarkt, 67547 Worms
Trier: Christmas Wonderland
The Trier Christmas Wonderland is considered one of the most beautiful Christmas markets in Germany. Why? Because of its romance and contemplation.
In 90 different wooden houses you will find all kinds of candles, Christmas decorations, toys and ceramics. Of course, there are also a number of delicacies such as waffles, beard sausages and mulled wine. The winemaker’s mulled wine from the Moselle is particularly popular.
The festively decorated stalls create a romantic atmosphere. In addition, the Christmas market takes place on the medieval main market, which also has a special atmosphere. A musical supporting program provides entertainment.
Usual opening times: November 18 – December 22 Address: Hauptmarkt, 54290 Trier
Germany’s oldest Christmas market has been held in Dresden since 1434. You can enjoy mulled wine, gingerbread and other delicacies at the Striezelmarkt.
Immerse yourself in a very special atmosphere in the heart of the baroque old town surrounded by bright lights. Various program highlights such as the Dresden Stollen Festival, the Dresden Gingerbread Festival or the Christmas tree decorations also ensure a Christmas atmosphere.
In the various stalls there are mainly typical handicrafts from different regions, such as ceramics from the Silesian part of Saxony, Christmas decorations from Thuringia or wood carvings from the Ore Mountains. And again a limited Striezelmarkt mulled wine cup.
Usual opening times: November 23 – December 24 Address: Altmarkt, 01067 Dresden
The second oldest Christmas market is in Leipzig. This impresses above all with its easy accessibility in the city center and its unique cultural and culinary offerings.
Highlights are the performances of the Christmas Oratorio by Johann Sebastian Bach, the organ music in the various Leipzig churches, the trumpet horns on the tower of the old town hall, the Christmas show, the fairytale forest and the Santa Claus office hours.
You can find delicacies such as Pulsnitz gingerbread, pretzels, chestnuts and Leipziger mulled wine in the various stalls, which are mainly set up on the market square. And of course handicrafts, Christmas decorations, ceramics and toys.
Usual opening times: November 22 – December 23 Address: Markt, 04109 Leipzig
Here at the Chemnitz Christmas market you will find typical handicrafts from the Ore Mountains. The 12 meter high Christmas pyramid, an oversized music box, the 5 meter high candle arch, the nutcracker and the angels are among the traditional figures of the Ore Mountains.
And at the around 200 stands you can not only buy Christmas decorations and delicacies, but above all Ore Mountain folk art.
In the Erzgebirge village, all houses are lovingly and traditionally designed and offers handicrafts for incense houses, painting of tree decorations and designing candles.
In 2016, Chemnitz was even voted one of the first places in the “Best Christmas City” competition and is definitely one of the most beautiful Christmas markets in Germany.
Usual opening times: November 25 – December 23 Address: Neumarkt, 09111 Chemnitz
Annaberg-Buchholz: Traditional Christmas market
The annual Christmas market in Annaberg-Buchholz in the Ore Mountains takes place against the backdrop of the famous St. Anne’s Church.
The huge Christmas tree, the stalls typical of the Ore Mountains, the handicraft presentations, the secret service for children and of course the culinary delights based on grandma’s recipes ensure the special Christmas flair.
The traditions of the Annaberg Christmas market include pushing the Christmas pyramid on the opening day, night watchman tours and the big mountain parade on the 4th Sunday in Advent.
The little ones can look forward to a gnome world with a gnome bakery and gnome workshop. Ideal for spending the pre-Christmas period with the whole family at the Christmas market.
Usual opening times: November 25 – December 23 Address: Große Kirchgasse 21, 09456 Annaberg-Buchholz
Cottbus: Christmas market of 1000 stars
During the run-up to Christmas, the city center of Cottbus is traditionally transformed into a sea of Moravian stars in the Cottbus colors of red and white.
Not only is the 13 meter high fir tree decorated with almost 100 red and white Moravian stars, but also the shop windows of the shopping centers and the fir garlands that adorn the streets of Cottbus. With more than 1000 stars, a particularly romantic flair is created.
There is also the smell of mulled wine, roasted almonds and other delicacies in the various stalls. And the traders will also be presenting their most beautiful handicrafts on the Altmarkt this year.
In the heart of the market there is also the 10 meter high Christmas pyramid with figures typical of the region such as fishermen, glassblowers and miners.
One of the traditions is the ceremonial opening with the cutting of the 7 meter long giant Christmas stollen accompanied by the Sachsendorf children’s choir.
Usual opening times: November 21 – December 23 Address: Cottbus city center, 03046 Cottbus
Lübbenau: Christmas as it used to be
The Christmas season in Lübbenau in the large Spreewald port will be a very special experience at the Port Christmas. Because here you will experience two Christmas markets at the same time and will be driven back and forth between the two in a typical Spreewald punt.
At Hafenweihnacht, you can stroll through a maritime Christmas market and enjoy smoked salmon, Christmas pancakes and grog, or buy one or two small gifts from the artisans.
Then, wrapped up in thick blankets, take the boat on which the elves tell Christmas stories and sing songs to the Lehde open-air museum.
Here you can experience Christmas as it used to be. In the historic farms and parlors you can see how Christmas was prepared 150 years ago, enjoy Christmas treats and watch the revolving tree being decorated. You can go back by boat or on a torch-lit hike.
Usual opening times: December 10 – December 11 Address: An der Giglitza 1a, 03222 Lübbenau
Experience a fairytale Christmas in the Senftenberg Castle courtyard. Strolling along the market stalls you will meet Mother Hulda, King Drosselbart or Hansel and Gretel.
The wintry fairy tale characters are brought to life by Schwalbe’s traveling theater and are guaranteed to be a highlight for the whole family. Especially the children’s eyes will be big.
With Christmas sounds in the castle courtyard, you can enjoy mulled wine and Christmas treats, buy handicraft products or watch how stars are made from straw in the gnome workshop.
Children can even try out various old handicraft techniques together with the museum educator. Definitely a highlight for the little ones.
Usual opening times: December 11 Address: Schloss Strasse, 01968 Senftenberg
Potsdam: Sinterklaas festival Dutch Quarter
You can find a slightly different Christmas market on a weekend in the Dutch Quarter in Potsdam. Because here the scent of roasted almonds and gingerbread is not in the air, rather the scent of matjes and Kniepertjes is in the air. In keeping with Dutch traditions, Sinterklaas and his entourage will arrive in Potsdam harbor on Saturday, December 8th, 2018.
Dutch and local restaurateurs and Dutch traders also sell their typical Dutch handicrafts here for your well-being. Definitely a festival for the whole family with Dutch flair, which makes it one of the most beautiful Christmas markets in Germany.
Usual opening times: December 10 – December 11 Address: Dutch Quarter, Mittelstrasse, 14467 Potsdam
Along the Schlachte promenade along the Weser, the enchanting stalls are lined up and you immerse yourself in a maritime, wintry and historical flair. In the around 100 different stalls you can find everything that belongs to the pre-Christmas period, from toys and Christmas decorations to gifts.
The special thing is the entire presentation of the Christmas market right on the river bank, because the ships are also decorated with Christmas lights and enchant you. Some even have treats to enjoy. And the stage is also unique. In the form of a historic ship’s stern, you can look out over the entire battle magic on the upper deck.
Usual opening times: November 21 – December 23 Address: First battle gate, 28195 Bremen
Lübeck: Historical Christmas Market
One of the most beautiful Christmas markets in Germany is definitely the traditional Christmas market in Lübeck.
You will find around 200 stands with toys, Christmas decorations and other handicrafts against the historical backdrop of the UNESCO World Heritage Site on Lübeck’s old town island. People have been drawn here again and again since 1648. And not only because of the unique backdrop in front of the historic town hall, but also because no mass-produced goods are sold here.
And physical well-being is also taken care of under the heavenly tent created from thousands of lights. Whether gingerbread, roasted almonds, herbal sweets or bratwurst, you will find everything your pre-Christmas heart desires here.
Usual opening times: November 21 – December 23 Address: Markt, 23552 Lübeck
One of the most beautiful Christmas markets in Hamburg is the White Magic on Jungfernstieg. Simply because of the unique panoramic view of the Alster, which is a dream especially at Christmas time with all the twinkling lights. But there is more.
A historic Ferris wheel for the children, an impressive light show with a thousand small light bulbs and, in contrast to the usual wooden booths, white pagoda tents. Santa Claus is coming for the children on December 6th and is sure to have a gift or two with him. And the ice princess can also be seen here and there.
In addition to all the typical delicacies such as warm waffles, bratwurst and roasted almonds, there is a special quality mulled wine at the Hamburg Christmas market this year that you should not miss.
Usual opening times: November 17 – December 23 Address: Jungfernstieg, 22767 Hamburg
At the Christmas market in the port city of Wismar, things are traditional and yet a little different than you know from the conventional Christmas markets in other cities.
The historic market square shines in Christmas splendor and you will find jewelry, toys, goods from the Ore Mountains and candles in the wooden stalls. However, when Santa Claus comes, he comes by ship, which is quite untypical but traditional for Wismar.
The children in particular at the old port are longingly waiting for the red coat to finally approach on the cutter.
Another tradition in Wismar is the Seaman’s Christmas on the third Sunday of Advent. A maritime Christmas market is set up at the harbor and the ships decorated for Christmas invite you to the last sea voyage of the year.
Usual opening times: November 21 – December 22 Address: Am Markt, 23966 Wismar
Erfurt: Christmas market in the middle of Germany
Just because of the beautiful patrician houses and the lovingly reconstructed half-timbered houses, the Christmas market in Erfurt is one of the most beautiful and popular in Germany.
The Christmas backdrop with the Mariendom and the Severikirche, which are Erfurt’s landmarks, enchants and attracts more than 2 million guests every year.
What should not be missing at the Erfurt Christmas market are the Thuringian Bratwurst and the Erfurter Schittchen. In addition to all the delicacies, you will of course also find the finest craftsmanship, pottery, Christmas tree decorations and folk art from the Ore Mountains.
Highlights are the 25 meter high festively decorated fir tree, the 12 meter high Christmas pyramid and the fairytale forest.
Usual opening times: November 22 – December 22 Address: Domstufen 1, 99084 Erfurt
Weimar is, so to speak, the birthplace of the large fir trees at the Christmas markets. Because in 1815 the court bookseller Hoffmann wanted to make this wonderful sight of a festively decorated fir tree possible for poor people and since then it has been done in every city. And so also in Weimar.
You will also find lots of stalls with handicrafts, gift ideas, tree decorations from the Ore Mountains and of course all kinds of delicacies.
The highlight of the Weimar Christmas market is the ice rink on Theaterplatz, which frames the Goethe and Schiller monument and creates a particularly Christmassy atmosphere.
If you don’t like it that sporty in the cold, you can treat yourself to a hot mulled wine in one of the many mulled wine huts.
Usual opening times: November 22 – January 5 Address: Marktplatz and Theaterplatz, 99423 Weimar
Christmas like many years ago in the historic setting of the Wartburg, which has been a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1999. This is the Christmas market in Eisenach. In addition to the typical Christmas goods, you will also find almost forgotten handicrafts here.
From lantern makers and glass blowers to soap makers and herbalists to candle makers, tin casters and stonemasons. In between, musicians, jugglers and puppeteers provide Christmas entertainment.
Usual opening times: On all Advent weekends Address: Auf der Wartburg 1, 99817 Eisenach
Gera: Christmas market and fairy tale market
Why is the fairytale market one of the most beautiful Christmas markets in Germany? On the one hand because of the life-size fairytale figures and on the other hand because of the beautiful Christmas tree in the middle of the historic market square.
The 38 fairy tale figures are life-size and handmade. Here you can enjoy the pre-Christmas atmosphere with the whole family, because the Christmas market in Gera is particularly family-friendly.
Usual opening times: November 24 – December 23 Address: Marktplatz, 07545 Gera
This concludes my list of the best Christmas Markets in Germany. I recommend you to visit as many as you can, as each one is special in its old way.
About the Author: Elle Johnson, travel writer living in Germany, an avid explorer fueled by wanderlust, uncovers Germany's hidden treasures. From mountains to luxury hotels, spontaneous trips to meticulous planning, she embraces diverse experiences. Join her in unraveling Germany's wonders and creating lifelong memories.
