Best Christmas markets in Germany

Get ready for the festive season!

Germany’s Christmas markets are calling. Think steaming mulled wine, twinkling lights, flame-grilled salmon and beautiful handmade gifts. As Advent approaches, towns and cities across Germany are preparing to transform into winter wonderlands packed with festive cheer.

Each market has its own charm, from historic backdrops and local traditions to live music and the sweet scent of gingerbread and cinnamon stars in the air.

With so many magical spots to choose from, we’ve rounded up some of the most beautiful Christmas markets in Germany, plus the stories behind them, to help you plan your perfect festive escape.

Frohe Weihnachten!

A brief history of Germany’s Christmas markets

Germany’s Christmas market tradition goes all the way back to the late Middle Ages. Back then, the markets were all about practicality, giving locals a chance to stock up on food and essentials before the festive break.

Today, they’re a much-loved symbol of the season, known far beyond Germany’s borders. From handcrafted gifts to twinkling lights and warming winter treats, these markets share the magic of German Christmas traditions with the world.

Germany’s 12 most magical Christmas markets for 2025

1. Nuremberg Christmas Market

One of Germany’s most iconic festive events, the Nuremberg Christmas Market draws visitors from all over the world. With around 180 beautifully decorated stalls, it’s the perfect place to soak up the atmosphere and browse for gifts, treats and traditional crafts.

A standout feature is the daily live music in front of the Frauenkirche, filling the air with festive sounds. Families will love the dedicated “Children’s Christmas” on Hans-Sachs-Platz, complete with rides and hands-on activities that kids will love.

There are themed discovery trails, from culinary to regional and traditional, offering a fresh way to explore. And of course, no visit is complete without tucking into warm chestnuts, Nuremberg sausages, spicy gingerbread and a cup of mulled wine.

Dates: 28 November – 24 December 2025
Opening hours: Daily, 10am – 9pm

2. Stuttgart Christmas Market

Set against the stunning backdrop of Schlossplatz, the Stuttgart Christmas Market is one of Germany’s largest and most enchanting. With hundreds of festively decorated stalls, it’s a wonderland of Christmas crafts, traditional treats and seasonal delights.

Don’t miss the impressive Christmas pyramid and the open-air ice rink, perfect for a festive whirl, whether you’re a seasoned skater or just fancy some frosty fun! Each year, the best-decorated stalls are recognised with awards, adding an extra touch of magic to the scene.

Little ones will love the charming children’s rides, including a miniature railway that’s always a crowd-pleaser. Throughout Advent, the courtyard of the castle comes alive with carol concerts, creating heartwarming moments to remember.

Dates: 26 November – 23 December 2025
Opening hours:
Saturday to Thursday: 11am – 9pm
Friday & Saturday: 11am – 10pm

3. Christmas Market at Cologne Cathedral

Set beneath the awe-inspiring spires of Cologne Cathedral, this Christmas market is as magical as its setting. With a backdrop like no other, it’s the perfect place for an unforgettable festive wander.

Expect a charming mix of handcrafted gifts, warming winter food and a feel-good atmosphere that captures the spirit of the season. At the heart of the market, a stage hosts live music every day, from classical to jazz and festive pop, adding a joyful soundtrack to your visit.

Of course, no trip would be complete without a cup of glühwein in hand, a sizzling bratwurst or two, and sweet treats to warm you through.

Dates: 17 November – 23 December 2025
Opening hours:
Sunday to Wednesday: 11am – 9pm
Thursday & Friday: 11am – 10pm
Saturday: 10am – 10pm

4. Frankfurt Christmas Market

Winding through the heart of the city, the Frankfurt Christmas Market covers one of the largest festive routes in Germany, and it’s one of the most atmospheric too.

Set around the historic Römerberg, the market is packed with beautifully lit stalls offering everything from handcrafted gifts to seasonal treats and traditional decorations.

Don’t leave without trying two local favourites: hot apple wine and Bethmännchen – a marzipan delight that’s a true taste of Frankfurt’s Christmas heritage.

Dates: 24 November – 22 December 2025
Opening hours:
Monday to Saturday: 10am – 9pm
Sunday: 11am – 9pm

5. Munich Christmas Market

Set in the heart of the city at Marienplatz, Munich’s traditional Christmas market draws visitors from near and far with its magical atmosphere and centuries-old charm.

The centrepiece is a towering Christmas tree, glowing with thousands of lights and setting the tone for a truly festive experience. Around 140 stalls line the square, offering everything from handcrafted gifts and twinkling decorations to tasty seasonal snacks.

Families won’t want to miss the “Heaven Workshop,” where children can dress up as angels and create their own Christmas crafts.

Dates: 24 November – 24 December 2025
Opening hours:
Monday to Saturday: 10am – 9pm
Sunday: 10am – 8pm

6. Baden-Baden Christmas Market

With the glowing Kurhaus as its backdrop, the Christmas market in Baden-Baden feels like something out of a fairy tale. Twinkling lights, beautifully decorated stalls and a serene atmosphere make it a magical spot for an Advent escape. Alongside the market’s handmade decorations, fine crafts and festive food, the nearby Kurhaus colonnades offer a more refined shopping experience, perfect for picking up elegant gifts and keepsakes in a relaxed setting.

It’s also a treat for food lovers. Classic Christmas favourites like glühwein, bratwurst and gingerbread sit alongside regional dishes that showcase the flavours of Baden. Live music and cultural events run throughout the season, adding to the charm and making Baden-Baden’s market one of the most special in Germany.

Dates: 27 November 2025 – 6 January 2026
Opening hours: Daily, 11am – 9pm
(Note: hours may vary on public holidays)

7. Hanover Old Town Christmas Market

Set among charming half-timbered houses, the Christmas market in Hanover’s Old Town brings festive cheer to this historic city centre. It’s one of Germany’s cosiest seasonal spots.

Spread across several picture-perfect squares, you’ll find stalls brimming with traditional crafts, handmade decorations and delicious regional treats. One standout feature is the medieval market near the Market Church. Step back in time with artisans demonstrating age-old techniques and stalls styled to reflect the traditions of centuries past.

Sweet tooth? From cinnamon stars to vanilla crescents, there’s a mouthwatering range of Christmas bakes to sample as you stroll.

With twinkling lights, the sound of choirs and live music in the air, this is a market made for magical memories.

Dates: 24 November – 22 December 2025
Opening hours: Daily, 11am – 9pm

8. Dresden Striezelmarkt

One of the world’s oldest Christmas markets, Dresden’s Striezelmarkt celebrates its 591st edition in 2025, and it’s as magical as ever. Set in the historic Altmarkt square, the market takes its name from the beloved “Striezel”, Dresden’s famous Christmas stollen.

Alongside this festive treat, you’ll find spicy mulled wine, crispy Kräppelchen (sugar-dusted mini doughnuts), and all sorts of regional delights to tuck into as you browse the stalls.

Towering over the market are two iconic centrepieces, a 15-metre-high Christmas pyramid and the beautifully lit 25-metre Striezelt fir. With carols in the air and lights all around, it’s a true Advent wonder.

Be sure to check out the traditional Erzgebirge crafts, from candle arches and incense smokers to nutcrackers and hand-carved figures. These timeless pieces are part of what makes the Striezelmarkt so unique.

Dates: 26 November – 24 December 2025
Opening hours: Daily, 10am – 9pm

9. Lübeck Christmas Market

Lübeck’s Christmas Market is a true festive gem, drawing visitors into its beautifully lit Old Town each winter. Twinkling lights line the narrow streets and historic squares, creating a cosy, fairy-tale feel that captures the magic of the season.

The market’s stalls are a treat in themselves, offering everything from handcrafted gifts and sparkling decorations to bratwurst, gingerbread and warming glühwein, perfect for a relaxed festive stroll.

Families will love the enchanting fairy-tale forest, where whimsical scenes and festive figures bring stories to life and make little eyes light up.

Dates: 24 November – 30 December 2025
Opening hours:
Sunday to Thursday: 11am – 9pm
Friday & Saturday: 11am – 10pm

10. Essen International Christmas Market

Bringing festive flair from around the globe, the Essen International Christmas Market is a must-visit for anyone looking to experience Christmas with an international twist. With over 150 stalls, it’s a colourful mix of global traditions, showcasing everything from handcrafted gifts to seasonal décor and treats from different cultures.

Unlike many markets, Essen puts a strong focus on artisan goods rather than food. That said, foodies won’t be disappointed. Taste your way across continents with Belgian waffles, French nougat and exotic spices. It’s a festive world tour in the heart of the Ruhr!

The market also features the world’s tallest Christmas pyramid, a dazzling 20-metre structure on Willy-Brandt-Platz that’s perfect for a festive photo stop.

Dates: 14 November – 23 December 2025
Opening hours:
Sunday to Thursday: 11am – 9pm
Friday & Saturday: 11am – 10pm

11. Quedlinburg Christmas Market

Tucked within one of Germany’s most picturesque old towns, the Quedlinburg Christmas Market is a festive hidden gem. Cobbled streets and timber-framed houses set the scene for a truly enchanting Advent experience.

One of the highlights is Advent in the Courtyards, when more than twenty of the town’s private courtyards open their doors. It's a rare chance to explore behind-the-scenes spaces filled with handcrafted goods, Christmas ornaments and local treats.

With its cosy charm and fairytale setting, this market is perfect for a slower-paced, atmospheric festive getaway.

Dates: 26 November – 22 December 2025
Opening hours:
Sunday to Thursday: 11am – 8pm
Friday: 11am – 10pm
Saturday: 10am – 10pm

12. Aachen Christmas Market

Set against the backdrop of Aachen’s stunning cathedral and historic town hall, this much-loved Christmas market is full of charm and festive atmosphere.

Wander among beautifully decorated stalls offering handmade crafts, traditional ornaments and regional delicacies, including the city’s famous Aachener Printen, a spiced gingerbread treat.

A fun highlight is the curling at the Holzgraben Advent Market, where visitors can book a lane and enjoy a few friendly rounds in a lively, festive setting.

With twinkling lights overhead and the scent of mulled wine and gingerbread in the air, Aachen’s Christmas Market is the perfect place to soak up the season.

Dates: 21 November – 23 December 2025
Opening hours: Open daily, 11am – 9pm

A quick summary of Christmas markets in Germany

A festive tradition that lights up the season
Christmas markets are a much-loved part of Germany’s Advent season, blending age-old traditions with cosy winter cheer. From historic gems like Nuremberg’s Christkindlesmarkt to the globally inspired stalls of the Essen International Market, each one brings something special. Even the biggest Christmas sceptic will find something to smile about!

Expect beautifully crafted gifts, twinkling decorations and the comforting scent of mulled wine, bratwurst and cinnamon stars around every corner.

Set in charming old towns and glowing city squares, these markets come to life with festive lights and music, wrapping visitors in the magic of Christmas.

Now all you need is a place to stay nearby! Explore our collection of holiday homes available over the Christmas period.