We have compiled the ultimate list of Christmas markets in Germany (over 50 markets in total across 7 articles). For a long time, festive markets have been a big part of Christmas celebrations in Germany – and with our guide, you never have to worry about your journey anymore.
But don’t be too caught up with exploration! Don’t forget the Christmas gifts or gift experiences for your loved ones as well.
For your convenience, here is the list of Christmas markets:
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Are you ready to explore the best Christmas Markets in Germany? Scroll to read more!
Christmas Markets in Berlin
Embark on a festive adventure through Berlin with our guide to the top 15 Christmas markets in the city (but there are over 80 in total). Explore the diverse array of crafts, savor traditional treats, and experience the magical atmosphere that makes these markets the heart of Berlin’s winter celebrations.
Heissa Holz-Markt
Embark on the festive journey starting with Heissa Holz-Markt, a winter wonderland nestled along the banks of the Spree. Explore the enchanting stalls, enjoy the cozy atmosphere, and soak in the holiday magic as you begin your winter adventure.
- Located at Holzmarkt 25, Holzmarktstraße 25, 10243 Berlin, Germany.
- Operating from the 23rd of November 2023 until the 23rd of December 2023
- Open on Friday from 4 pm, Saturday & Sunday from 2 pm
- Heissa Holzmarkt in Berlin is famous for being set against the Magnificent view of the river Spree.
Lucia Christmas Market at Kulturbrauerei
Step into the enchanting Lucia Christmas Market at Kulturbrauerei, where festive magic unfolds in every corner. Wander through the historic brewery transformed into a winter wonderland, adorned with twinkling lights and festive decorations.
- Located at Kulturbrauerei, Schönhauser Allee 36, 10435 Berlin.
- Operating from 27th of November until 22nd of December 2023, from 3 pm to 10 pm.
- The Lucia Christmas Market is inspired by the Nordic goddess of light and is famous for being set against a 19th-century brewery.
Here is our full article on the Complete List of Christmas Markets in Berlin.
Christmas Markets in Munich
Embark on a festive journey through Munich with our guide to the top 10 Christmas markets in the city. Explore the diverse crafts, savor Bavarian treats, and experience the magical atmosphere that makes these markets the heart of Munich’s winter celebrations.
Munich Christkindlmarkt in Marienplatz Square
The Munich Christkindlmarkt in Marienplatz Square is a quintessential Bavarian Christmas experience, where the heart of the city comes alive with festive joy.
- Located at Marienplatz Square, Munich, Germany.
- Dates: November 21st to December 24th, 2023
- Hours: Monday – Saturday: 10 am – 9 pm, Sunday: 11 am – 8 pm
- The Munich Christkindlmarkt is renowned for its traditional wooden stalls, the iconic Christmas tree, and the opening ceremony featuring the Christkind, creating a magical atmosphere for all.
Kripperlmarkt
Kripperlmarkt is a unique Christmas market specializing in nativity scenes and festive decorations, providing a special touch to holiday celebrations.
- Located at Neuhauser Straße, 80331 Munich, Germany.
- Dates: November 21st to December 24th, 2023
- Hours: Monday – Saturday: 10 am – 8 pm, Sunday: 11 am – 7 pm
- The Kripperlmarkt is known for nativity scenes, providing a unique focus on this traditional Christmas symbol.
Here is our full article on the Complete List of Christmas Markets in Munich.
Christmas Markets in Cologne
Explore the festive spirit of Cologne with our guide to the 6 enchanting Christmas markets throughout the city. Discover the diverse crafts, savor local specialties, and experience the magical atmosphere that makes these markets the heart of Cologne’s winter celebrations.
Cologne Cathedral Christmas Market
Welcome to the magical Cologne Cathedral Christmas Market, where festive joy radiates in the shadow of the iconic cathedral. Wander through the enchanting stalls, adorned with twinkling lights, and experience the heartwarming atmosphere.
- Located at Roncalliplatz, Roncallipl., 50667 Köln, Germany.
- Operating from 23rd of November to 23rd of December 2023
- Open Sunday-Wednesday from 11 am to 9 pm, Thursday-Friday from 11 am to 10 pm, Saturday from 10 am to 10 pm
- The Cologne Cathedral Christmas Market is known for being set against the backdrop of the Cologne Cathedral.
Cologne’s Old Town Christmas Market
Step into the charm of Cologne’s Old Town Christmas Market, a festive haven nestled in historic surroundings. Savor local delights, explore unique crafts, and immerse yourself in the timeless allure of this cherished market in Cologne’s Old Town.
- Located at Old Market, Alter Markt 18, 50667 Köln, Germany.
- Operating from the 24th of November to the 23rd of December 2023, from 11 am to 9 pm.
- The Christmas Market in Cologne’s Old Town is known for having the largest ice skating rink.
Here is our full article on the Complete List of Christmas Markets in Cologne.
Christmas Markets in Nuremberg
Explore the festive magic of Nuremberg with our guide to the 4 enchanting Christmas markets scattered across the city. Discover the traditional crafts, savor the local delights, and experience the magical atmosphere that makes these markets the heart of Nuremberg’s winter celebrations.
Christkindlesmarkt
Welcome to the iconic Christkindlesmarkt in Nuremberg, a timeless celebration of the holiday season. Immerse yourself in the enchanting atmosphere as you stroll through the historic market square adorned with festive decorations.
- Located at Hauptmarkt, 90403 Nürnberg, Germany.
- Operating from the 1st until the 24th of December 2023, from 10 am until 9 pm.
- The Nuremberg Christmas Market, known as Nürnberger Christkindlesmarkt, is known for being Germany’s most popular and one of the biggest Christmas markets.
Original Regional Market
Step into the Original Regional Market, a hidden gem among Nuremberg’s Christmas festivities. Explore the unique charm of this market, showcasing regional crafts and specialties.
- Located next to St. Sebaldus Church, 90403 Nürnberg, Germany.
- Operating from the 1st until the 24th of December 2023, from 10 am until 8 pm.
- The Original Regional Christmas Market is known for being like a small part of the big Christkindlesmarkt.
Here is our full article on the Complete List of Christmas Markets in Nuremberg.
Christmas Markets in Hamburg
Embark on a festive journey through Hamburg with our guide to the top 10 Christmas markets in the city. Explore the diverse crafts, savor local treats, and experience the magical atmosphere that makes these markets the heart of Hamburg’s winter celebrations.
Rathausmarkt Christmas Market (City Hall Christmas Market)
No trip to Hamburg’s Christmas markets would be complete without visiting the iconic Rathausmarkt. This grand market is located in the heart of the city, surrounded by the stunning architecture of the Rathaus (City Hall) and the historic buildings of the Old Town.
- Located at Rathausplatz, 20095 Hamburg.
- November 21st to December 30th, from 11:00 AM to 9:00 PM.
- The Rathausmarkt is renowned for its traditional atmosphere being situated in the City Hall. It’s remarkable for its central location, stunning views, and iconic setting.
Jungfernstieg Christmas Market
Located along the Binnenalster Lake, this elegant market boasts stunning views and a romantic atmosphere. Stroll through rows of stalls selling traditional Christmas ornaments, gifts, and delicious food, all while enjoying the twinkling lights and festive decorations.
- Located at Jungfernstieg, 20095 Hamburg.
- November 16th to December 30th, from 11:00 AM to 9:00 PM
- The Jungfernstieg Christmas Market is known for having stunning views of the Binnenalster Lake. It offers an elegant atmosphere and traditional Christmas offerings.
Here is our full article on the Complete List of Christmas Markets in Hamburg.
Christmas Markets in Stuttgart
Embark on a festive journey through Stuttgart with our series of 3 articles, each unveiling a unique facet of the city’s Christmas markets. Explore the diverse crafts, savor local treats, and experience the magical atmosphere that makes Stuttgart’s Christmas markets a cherished part of the winter season.
Stuttgart Christmas Market
Stuttgart Christmas Market is a magical winter wonderland located in the Wilhelma Botanical Garden. The garden is transformed into a wintery fairy tale, with twinkling lights, towering trees, and festive decorations.
- Located at Wilhelma, Neckartalstraße 70, 70376 Stuttgart, Germany.
- Open from November 15, 2023, to January 14, 2024, from 5:00 PM to 9:30 PM.
- Stuttgart Christmas Market is known for being one of the biggest and oldest markets in Europe, it has a history dating back to at least 1692.
Merry Markthalle
Merry Markthalle is a historic indoor market located in the heart of the city. The market is home to over 80 vendors selling fresh produce, meats, cheeses, seafood, baked goods, and more.
- Located at Markthalle Stuttgart, Markthalle 1, 70174 Stuttgart, Germany.
- Open from 7:30 AM to 6:30 PM on Monday to Thursday
- 7:30 AM to 5:00 PM on Friday
- 7:00 AM to 5:00 PM on Saturday, it is closed on Sundays
- The Markthalle is celebrated for its longstanding tradition of providing a wide variety of goods, fostering a vibrant atmosphere, and serving as a key cultural and economic center.
Here is our full article on the Complete List of Christmas Markets in Stuttgart.
Christmas Markets in Dresden
Embark on a festive journey through Dresden with our guide to the top 6 Christmas markets in the city. From the historic charm of Striezelmarkt, one of Germany’s oldest markets, to the delightful stalls along the Augustus Bridge, immerse yourself in the holiday cheer.
Dresden’s Striezelmarkt
Steeped in history dating back to 1434, the Striezelmarkt is the oldest Christmas market in Germany and one of the most famous worldwide. It boasts over 250 stalls overflowing with traditional handicrafts, delectable treats like the namesake “Striezel” (fruit bread), and festive ornaments.
- Located at Altmarkt Square, 01067 Dresden, Germany.
- Open from November 23 to December 24, 2023.
- Monday-Thursday: 10:00 am – 8:00 pm, Friday-Saturday: 10:00 am – 9:00 pm, Sunday: 11:00 am – 8:00 pm.
- Dresden’s Striezelmarkt is renowned for being the oldest Christmas market in Germany and one of the most popular in the world.
Winterlights of Dresden
This contemporary market at Neumarkt Square blends festive cheer with modern art installations and interactive light displays. Expect vibrant projections, illuminated sculptures, and a vibrant atmosphere with live music and performances.
- Located at Neumarkt Square, 01067 Dresden, Germany.
- Open from November 23 to December 24, 2023.
- Sunday-Thursday: 4:00 pm – 10:00 pm, Friday-Saturday: 4:00 pm – 11:00 pm.
- The Winterlights of Dresden is known for a fusion of Christmas tradition and modern art, with light projections transforming the square into a dazzling wonderland.
Here is our full article on the Complete List of Christmas Markets in Dresden.
Final Thoughts
We’ve journeyed through the best Christmas markets in Germany. Each one, a unique blend of culture, tradition, and holiday cheer.
So, if you’re in Germany during the festive season, make sure to visit at least one of these markets. It’s an experience you won’t want to miss. But what else can complete your Christmas story? Right, the gifts!
For those seeking classic gift ideas, our recommendation is to start with Amazon first for more gift ideas and price comparisons. You can also give them gift experiences they will never forget.
Have a happy holiday!
Tom Emerson
Tom’s travel writings are a testament to his insatiable curiosity and love for the road less traveled. Eschewing the typical tourist spots, Tom has built a reputation for uncovering hidden gems known only to locals.
From secluded mountain villages in the Himalayas to untouched beaches in the South Pacific, his adventures have taken him to the world’s most undiscovered corners.
