The Best Christmas Markets in Germany

Christmas is just around the corner, and it’s the perfect time to plan a visit to some of the best Christmas Markets in Germany. These markets are known for their gorgeous Christmas decorations and trees and their unique selection of gifts for the whole family. So, take the chance to experience the magic of Christmas in some of Germany’s most beautiful destinations.

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Our list of the Best Christmas markets in Germany

Suppose you want a magical Christmas experience with mulled wine and gingerbread cookies. In that case, we highly recommend visiting a Christmas market in Germany. Germany is known for its traditional Christmas atmosphere that is not too commercial or over-the-top. You can experience the scent of Christmas spices, twinkling Christmas lights, and traditional entertainment in Germany.

We also asked other travel bloggers about their favorite Christmas markets in Germany. That’s why we collected a list of the best ones, all of which have been tried and tested with many practical tips. Travel to Germany’s Christmas markets and enjoy a magical vacation. So, you can marvel at the glittering lights in the enchanting towns of Bavaria and experience centuries of traditional festivities.

Note: If you still haven’t had enough magical places in Germany, visit our article about Fairytale Places in Germany. We are sure you would enjoy reading it.

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Cologne’s Christmas Markets

Cologne has a variety of Christmas markets, including the famous one in front of Cologne Cathedral, which attracts over 4 million visitors yearly. There are several other markets situated in various parts of the city. The first Christmas market in Cologne was the Nicolaimarkt in 1820, held in the old town. However, after sixty-five years, the authorities banned the market due to the increased number of stands and rowdiness.

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Nuremberg Christmas Market

The Christkindlesmarkt, held in the Bavarian city of Nuremberg, is one of the world’s most famous and largest Christmas markets. The market dates back to the 17th century. The earliest evidence of the Nuremberg Christkindlesmarkt is a wooden box with an inscription that reads: “Regina Susanna Harßdörfferin von der Jungfrau Susanna Eleonora Erbsin zum Kindles-Marck überschickt 1628” which translates to “received on the occasion of a Christkindl market in 1628”.

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Berlin Christmas Market

The capital of Germany boasts more than 50 Christmas markets worth visiting. Furthermore, the city is known for its flourishing modern-day renaissance in art and architecture, and the Christmas markets are all around the city. That’s why visitors can indulge in food, wine, art exhibitions, local artisan crafts, and even ice skating!

One of the must-visit German food halls in Berlin is Markthalle Neun, also known as “Market Nine,” located in the historic Kreuzberg Railway Station.

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Esslingen Christmas and Medieval Market

Esslingen’s Medieval and Christmas Market is a unique experience where merchants in historical costumes sell their wares. Visitors can learn traditional crafts and enjoy various performances. The market is open daily from 11 am to 8.30 pm and on Fridays and Saturdays until 9.30 pm. The event’s highlight occurs on 19th December at the winter solstice, when visitors and market traders join the famous torchlight procession up to the castle. We recommend visiting this one because it is one of the finest Christmas markets in Germany.

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Munich Christmas Market

Munich is a magical place to visit before Christmas and is one of Germany’s Best Christmas Markets. The city transforms with beautiful lights and Christmas Markets that are worth exploring. The most famous one is at Marienplatz, where a giant Christmas tree stands. You can also check out the ice-skating rink at Karlsplatz and enjoy a cup of Glühwein. For a unique Christmas Market experience, head to Tollwood Winter Festival, where you can buy handcrafted presents and enjoy various organic foods while attending shows and activities.

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Rothenburg ob der Tauber Christmas Market

The Christmas Market here, also known as Reiterlesmarkt, is one of Germany’s most famous. The market has been open for over 500 years and still retains the traditions of the bygone years. You will also see many wooden huts around the Town Hall, selling food, drink, handmade goods, and Christmas ornaments from late November to just before Christmas. More appealingly, the market is known for Santa Claus’s daily appearance, the Rothenburger Reiterle’s arrival on horseback, and the delicious roasted chestnuts and mulled wine. Ultimately, you can also buy a souvenir Reiterlesmarkt mug to take home as a memento of your visit.

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Dresden Christmas Market

Why visit this market? Firstly, Dresden’s Striezelmarkt is Germany’s oldest Christmas market, which is approximately 500 years old. Secondly, decorated wooden buildings make it look like a small village. Glühwein and stollen are the specialties. The market opens with a parade, a cinema, a bakery, rides, and a giant Ferris wheel. Don’t forget to check out the smoking man decoration, a popular item in the region.

Aachen Christmas Market

Aachen in December is a winter wonderland with something for everyone. The city’s Christmas market, situated in the shadow of the famous Aachen Cathedral and the Town Hall, offers sweet treats and unique gifts. You can’t miss trying Aachener Printen, a soft Christmas cookie with various toppings. It’s a great Christmas gift or a treat for yourself with a mug of Glühwein!

Final wordings of the Best Christmas Markets in Germany

Fröhliche Weihnachten! While being at home with family is unbeatable, exploring European Christmas markets is a close second. Most importantly, regarding traditional holiday markets, Germany is a leader in festive decorations, baked goods, and grand celebrations. Of course, shopping is half the fun, so plan for handcrafted ornaments and other unique gifts to delight your loved ones on the big day. But now, we would love to hear your thoughts. Which Christmas markets in Germany do you consider to be the best?