Looking for the best Christmas markets to visit in Germany this holiday season? You’re not alone! Planning the perfect Christmas market trip can be overwhelming, but we’ve got you covered.
In this guide, we explore 10 magical destinations across big cities and smaller towns, complete with:
- History and festive traditions
- Market stalls and Christmas gifts
- Delicious treats and hot mulled wine
- Family-friendly activities like ferris wheels and ice skating
Follow our tips to plan your ideal visit, immerse yourself in the Christmas spirit, and experience the charm of European Christmas markets like never before
- 10 Famous Christmas Markets in Germany
- 1. Nuremberg Christkindlesmarkt
- 2. Dresden Striezelmarkt
- 3. Munich Christmas Markets
- 4. Cologne Cathedral Christmas Market
- 5. Rothenburg ob der Tauber
- 6. Stuttgart Christmas Market
- 7. Frankfurt Christmas Market
- 8. Hamburg Christmas Market
- 9. Lübeck Christmas Market
- 10. Konstanz Christmas Market at Lake Constance
- Best Christmas Markets in Germany: A Recap
- FAQ
10 Famous Christmas Markets in Germany
1. Nuremberg Christkindlesmarkt
The Nuremberg Christkindlesmarkt is one of the oldest Christmas markets in Europe, dating back to the 16th century. Famous for its Christ Child’s Market opening ceremony, it sets the tone for the entire Christmas season in Germany. The market square comes alive with hundreds of market stalls, offering handcrafted Christmas gifts, roasted almonds, and festive treats.
Kids love the giant wooden Ferris wheel and Santa Claus appearances, while adults enjoy traditional mulled wine. The giant advent calendar displayed across the town hall adds an extra layer of magic.
What to Know
- Location: Main Market Square, Nuremberg
- Highlights: Christ Child opening, giant Advent calendar
- Best Time: Late November to Christmas Eve
- Don’t Miss: Nürnberger sausages & hot mulled wine
See Also Famous Statues in Germany
2. Dresden Striezelmarkt
The Dresden Striezelmarkt is widely considered one of the famous Christmas markets in Germany. It began in 1434, making it the first market officially recorded in the country. Visitors are greeted by a 14-meter-high Christmas pyramid, nativity scenes, and dazzling Christmas lights.
The name comes from “Striezel,” an early version of the city’s beloved Stollen cake. Wander through market stalls in the old town, try hot chestnuts, and marvel at the Christmas village atmosphere. It’s a great trip for families thanks to craft workshops and ice skating rinks.
What to Know
- Location: Altmarkt Square, Dresden
- Highlights: Giant Christmas pyramid, Stollen festival
- Best Time: Late November – December 24
- Don’t Miss: Fresh Stollen cake slices
3. Munich Christmas Markets
Munich Christmas markets transform the Bavarian capital into a winter wonderland. The main market square near the town hall is the centerpiece, but the city hosts many different Christmas markets across neighborhoods. From medieval-inspired stalls to a Christmas village inside the Residenz Palace, there’s something for everyone.
Families will love the ice skating rink in the city center, while food lovers can enjoy hot wine, sweet treats, and roasted almonds. The highlight is the Christmas tree decorated with thousands of lights.
What to Know
- Location: Marienplatz & various city squares
- Highlights: Residenz Christmas Village, medieval market
- Best Time: Late November – December 24
- Don’t Miss: Bavarian sausages & festive live music
4. Cologne Cathedral Christmas Market
Set against the backdrop of the Cologne Cathedral, this is one of the largest markets in Germany. More than 150 Christmas stalls fill the market square, selling ornaments, toys, and traditional food. Visitors enjoy hot mulled wine served in collectible mugs and live choirs that fill the air with festive cheer.
The soaring cathedral and twinkling lights create an unforgettable Christmas spirit. Families will love the ice skating rink, while couples can stroll hand-in-hand through the glowing Christmas village.
What to Know
- Location: Cologne Cathedral Square
- Highlights: Cathedral backdrop, live music, ice rink
- Best Time: Late November – December 23
- Don’t Miss: Collectible mulled wine mugs
5. Rothenburg ob der Tauber
In the heart of a medieval town, Rothenburg hosts the Reiterlesmarkt, one of the most beautiful Christmas markets in Germany. The cobblestone streets and old town walls transport visitors back in time. The festive atmosphere includes horse-drawn carriages, glowing Christmas lights, and handmade crafts.
The market is smaller than those in big cities, but its charm and authenticity make it unforgettable. Families can also visit the year-round Christmas village at Käthe Wohlfahrt’s, a world-famous Christmas store.
What to Know
- Location: Rothenburg old town
- Highlights: Medieval setting, Reiterles figure
- Best Time: Late November – December 23
- Don’t Miss: Local Schneeballen pastries
See Also What Is Germany Famous for?
6. Stuttgart Christmas Market
The Stuttgart Christmas Market is one of the largest markets in Germany, stretching across the market square and surrounding streets. Known for elaborately decorated market stalls, each roof is a piece of art.
With its festive atmosphere, kids love the fairground rides, while adults enjoy warming cups of mulled wine. The town hall is transformed into a giant advent calendar, making it a must-see for families.
What to Know
- Location: Stuttgart City Center
- Highlights: Giant Advent calendar, stall decorations
- Best Time: Late November – December 23
- Don’t Miss: Hot chestnuts and Christmas concerts
7. Frankfurt Christmas Market
Located in the main market square of the city, the Frankfurt Christmas Market blends tradition with modern energy. The centerpiece is the towering Christmas tree lit with Christmas lights. Visitors stroll through hundreds of market stalls selling Christmas gifts, gingerbread, and festive drinks. The city center transforms into a glowing Christmas village, filled with holiday season excitement.
What to Know
- Location: Römerberg, Frankfurt Old Town
- Highlights: Enormous Christmas tree, historic backdrop
- Best Time: Late November – December 22
- Don’t Miss: Bethmännchen marzipan cookies
8. Hamburg Christmas Market
Hamburg’s main market at the town hall square is one of northern Germany’s most festive attractions. The theme is “Artisans from All Over the World,” so visitors can buy unique crafts and Christmas gifts. The Christmas lights shimmer across the city center, and Santa Claus flies over the market square in a theatrical performance each evening. Families enjoy the ice skating rink, and foodies can try hot wine and roasted almonds.
What to Know
- Location: Hamburg Town Hall Square
- Highlights: Santa Claus flyover, artisan stalls
- Best Time: Late November – December 23
- Don’t Miss: Local fish specialties with mulled wine
9. Lübeck Christmas Market
Set in a UNESCO-listed medieval town, Lübeck’s market is one of the most charming markets in Germany. Known as the “City of Seven Spires,” its old town is filled with Christmas stalls, twinkling lights, and the scent of hot chestnuts. Visitors can enjoy marzipan treats, explore the historic city walls, and take a day trip to nearby coastal towns.
What to Know
- Location: Lübeck Old Town
- Highlights: Marzipan specialties, historic city setting
- Best Time: Late November – December 30
- Don’t Miss: Lübeck marzipan chocolate
See Also Museums in Germany
10. Konstanz Christmas Market at Lake Constance
Few Christmas markets in Germany can match the beauty of Konstanz by Lake Constance. The stalls stretch from the old town to the harbor, where a boat is turned into a floating Christmas village. The festive atmosphere is enhanced by twinkling lights, reflections on the lake, and live choirs. Visitors can try sweet treats, enjoy ice skating, and warm up with mulled wine while taking in the views.
What to Know
- Location: Konstanz, Lake Constance
- Highlights: Floating Christmas village, lakeside setting
- Best Time: Late November – December 22
- Don’t Miss: Lake fish specialties & roasted almonds
Best Christmas Markets in Germany: A Recap
Planning a Christmas market trip is one of the best ways to celebrate the Christmas holidays, and the best Christmas markets in Germany deliver unforgettable memories. Whether you’re exploring southern Germany or venturing to smaller cities, each destination offers its own charm.
From riding a festive ferris wheel to enjoying warm treats in the late afternoon, every stop highlights the magic of the Christmas markets in Germany. Many travelers choose train travel for convenience, allowing them to visit more than one Christmas market in just two nights.
If you want to experience the wonder of European Christmas markets, plan a day trip or longer stay and visit Germany this season for timeless holiday joy.