Germany is world-renowned for its Christmas markets, which date back to the late Middle Ages. Each market is a winter wonderland of twinkling lights, wooden chalets, Glühwein, festive music and traditional crafts. From major cities to charming medieval towns, the Christmas markets in Germany offer visitors a truly magical festive experience.
Here’s a guide to some of the best Christmas markets in Germany.
Best Christmas Markets in Germany
Berlin – WeihnachtsZauber Gendarmenmarkt
Berlin’s historic Gendarmenmarkt comes alive during Advent, featuring artisan stalls, international treats, and live performances in a grand, candle-lit square.
Cologne Cathedral Christmas Market, Cologne
Set beneath the stunning Cologne Cathedral, this market combines Gothic backdrop with hundreds of festive stalls, mulled wine and traditional German foods.
Dresden Christmas Market – Striezelmarkt
Dating back to 1434, Dresden’s Altmarkt hosts the famous Striezelmarkt with its towering Christmas pyramid, artisan crafts, and the world-famous Stollen bread parade.
Erfurt Christmas Market, Erfurt
Erfurt’s historic cathedral square offers a cosy, fairy-tale setting with seasonal foods, handmade gifts and traditional lights that charm all visitors.
Frankfurt Christmas Market, Frankfurt
Frankfurt’s Römerberg market is one of the oldest in Germany, offering hundreds of stalls, festive lights and classic Glühwein for all ages.
Leipzig Christmas Market, Leipzig
Leipzig’s market fills the historic city centre with lights, entertainment, and craft stalls, making it one of Saxony’s most atmospheric festive events.
Munich Christkindlmarkt – Marienplatz, Munich
Held in Marienplatz, Munich’s market features a giant Christmas tree, traditional Bavarian treats and handcrafted gifts in a lively city atmosphere.
Nuremberg Christkindlesmarkt, Nuremberg
One of Germany’s most famous markets, Nuremberg draws over two million visitors each year with its traditional wooden stalls, festive foods, and Christkind angel opening ceremony.
Rothenburg ob der Tauber – Reiterlesmarkt
Set in a perfectly preserved medieval town, Rothenburg’s Reiterlesmarkt offers fairy-tale streets, local crafts, and festive traditions dating back centuries.
Stuttgart Christmas Market, Stuttgart
Stuttgart’s market spreads across several squares, offering handcrafted goods, traditional foods, live music, and a warm festive atmosphere that captivates visitors.
Christmas Wrapping
From Berlin’s bustling Gendarmenmarkt to Rothenburg’s medieval charm, Germany’s festive offerings cover the full spectrum of holiday experiences. Visiting the Christmas markets in Germany allows travellers to immerse themselves in centuries-old traditions, savour local delicacies, and enjoy sparkling lights and seasonal cheer.
Plan your visit in late November through December to make the most of these markets’ festive magic, whether in a major city or a charming regional town. These markets are the perfect way to experience the heart of German Christmas spirit.