The 10 most beautiful Christmas markets in Germany

The Christmas season is a magical time, and Germany's Christmas markets are among the most beautiful and atmospheric in the world. Here is an overview of ten special Christmas markets in Germany, their opening times and highlights.

1. Christkindlesmarkt in Nuremberg

Where? Hauptmarkt, Nuremberg, Bavaria

Opening times: 1 December - 24 December 2024

• Monday to Sunday: 10:00 - 21:00

• Christmas Eve: 10:00 - 14:00

Highlights:

• The Christ Child's ceremonial prologue at the opening

• Traditional wooden toys from the Erzgebirge

• Nuremberg gingerbread and mulled wine from regional producers

The Christkindlesmarkt in Nuremberg is the epitome of the traditional German Christmas market. Under the backdrop of the impressive Frauenkirche church, the red and white stalls are strung together like pearls. The scent of roasted almonds and gingerbread fills the air, while the Christ Child himself speaks at the opening.

2. Striezelmarkt in Dresden

Where? Altmarkt, Dresden, Saxony

Opening hours: 28 November - 24 December 2024

• Daily: 10:00 - 21:00

• Christmas Eve: 10:00 - 14:00

Highlights:

• The largest Erzgebirge Christmas pyramid in the world

• Dresden Stollen in all variations

• Handicrafts from the Erzgebirge region

The Striezelmarkt is one of the oldest Christmas markets in Germany, first mentioned in 1434. In addition to the famous Dresden Stollen, lovingly designed stalls with hand-carved wooden figures and Christmas tree decorations attract visitors. The pyramid on the Altmarkt is a real photo opportunity.

3. Christmas market at Kölner Dom

Where? Roncalliplatz, Cologne, North Rhine-Westphalia

Opening times: 25 November - 23 December 2024

• Sunday to Wednesday: 11:00 - 21:00

• Thursday to Saturday: 11:00 - 22:00

Highlights:

• Spectacular backdrop of Cologne Cathedral

• Large selection of international arts and crafts

• Regional specialities such as potato pancakes

The Christmas market at Cologne Cathedral enchants with a breathtaking light installation and a majestic Christmas tree. Around 150 stalls offer everything your heart desires - from arts and crafts to culinary delights.

4. Lübeck Christmas market

Where? Old Town, Lübeck, Schleswig-Holstein

Opening hours: 25 November - 30 December 2024

• Daily: 11:00 - 21:00

Highlights:

• Marzipan from Lübeck

• Historic market in the Heiligen-Geist-Hospital

• Romantic illumination of the Old Town

Lübeck is known as the city of marzipan, and this Christmas market reflects the sweet tradition. The historic market in the Heiligen-Geist-Hospital is particularly worth a visit, with authentic craft demonstrations and medieval flair.

5. Christmas market in Rothenburg ob der Tauber

Where? Market square, Rothenburg ob der Tauber, Bavaria

Opening times: 29 November - 23 December 2024

• Daily: 11:00 - 20:00

Highlights:

• Fairytale old town as a backdrop

• Rothenburg snowballs (sweet pastries)

• Historic night watchman tours

The Christmas market in Rothenburg ob der Tauber transports visitors back in time. The illuminated half-timbered houses and the medieval backdrop create a unique atmosphere.

6. Stuttgart Christmas market

Where? Schlossplatz and Schillerplatz, Stuttgart, Baden-Württemberg

Opening hours: 27 November - 23 December 2024

• Daily: 10:00 - 21:00

Highlights:

• Elaborately decorated stalls with award-winning facades

• Regional specialities such as Maultaschen

• Children's playhouse and ice skating rink

Stuttgart's Christmas market is one of the largest and most detailed in Germany. The stalls are ornately decorated and the varied offerings range from high-quality gifts to Swabian delicacies.

7. Gendarmenmarkt in Berlin

Where? Gendarmenmarkt, Berlin

Opening hours: 25 November - 31 December 2024

• Daily: 12:00 - 22:00

• Christmas Eve: 12:00 - 18:00

Highlights:

• International gastronomy

• Artisans at work

• Big New Year's Eve event

The Christmas market at Gendarmenmarkt offers a luxurious experience with exquisite food and high-quality products. Christmas romance becomes tangible against the backdrop of the Konzerthaus and the two cathedrals.

8. Aachen Christmas market

Where? Around Aachen Cathedral, Aachen, North Rhine-Westphalia

Opening times: 22 November - 23 December 2024

• Daily: 11:00 - 21:00

Highlights:

• Aachener Printen

• Handmade Christmas decorations

• Special offers for children

Aachen's Christmas market is famous for its Printen cakes and its cosy atmosphere. The impressive backdrop of the cathedral creates a festive atmosphere.

9. Frankfurt Christmas market

Where? Römerberg and Paulsplatz, Frankfurt am Main, Hesse

Opening hours: 25 November - 22 December 2024

• Daily: 10:00 - 21:00

Highlights:

• Traditional Frankfurt Bethmännchen (biscuits)

• View from the Christmas tree

• Regional artisans

The Frankfurt Christmas market delights with its mixture of tradition and modernity. The large Christmas tree and the half-timbered houses on Römerberg form an unmistakable backdrop.

10. Augsburg Christkindlesmarkt

Where? Rathausplatz, Augsburg, Bavaria

Opening times: 25 November - 24 December 2024

• Monday to Thursday: 10:00 - 20:00

• Friday to Sunday: 10:00 - 21:30

Highlights:

• "Engelesspiel" at the town hall

• Delicacies such as Augsburg bratwurst

• Picturesque old town centre

  
  

The Augsburg Christmas Market is characterised by the famous Engelesspiel, in which actors perform heavenly scenes in the windows of the town hall. This experience enchants young and old alike.

What is one of your favourite Christmas markets in Germany?

Write it in the comments!