Top 5 Christmas Markets in Germany

Germany

If you love Christmas, you can't miss the German Christmas markets! Christmas traditions hold special significance in Germany, where the festive season begins on the first day of December, leading up to a magical Christmas Eve. German Christmas markets offer the perfect setting to celebrate Advent with family and friends, surrounded by colourful lights, festive decorations, traditional carols, and holiday treats.

Why are Christmas markets so important in Germany?

The tradition of Christmas markets in Germany dates back to the 15th century, rooted in the Middle Ages. At that time, Germany, as part of the Roman Empire, celebrated the birth of Christ with religious customs, like Nativity scenes and carolling. These traditions can also be found in other countries, such as Austria and France, which is renowned for its famous Alsatian Christmas markets.

Gradually, these markets became a space for families to gather, share meals, and prepare for the Advent season. Over the centuries, Christmas markets grew in significance, evolving into the festive we know today.

5 Christmas markets - the best in Germany

CarJet has put together a list of the 5 best Christmas markets in Germany for you to take your trip to a whole new level. Are you ready?

Nuremberg

The Nuremberg Christmas market, known as the Nürnberger Christkindlesmarkt, is one of the oldest in Germany, held annually since the 15th century. The market opens on the last weekend of November, featuring a famous opening ceremony where the Christkind—the market’s most important figure—appears on the town hall balcony.

The market is located in the Hauptmarkt, Nuremberg’s main square, where you can admire the Frauenkirche, a 15th-century church. You’ll find countless wooden chalets, lights, and decorations that transport you straight into a magical winter world. The festive atmosphere is filled with the aromas of hot spiced wine and delicious food. Make sure to try the Nürnberger Rostbratwurst, a roast sausage that's a true regional specialty. It is a must-try!

Munich

The Munich Christmas market is ready to welcome you! Located in Bavaria, in southern Germany, Munich's world-famous market attracts thousands of tourists each year. Its origins date back to the 14th century, when a festival was held in honour of St. Nicholas. The main market, Christkindlmarkt, is situated in Marienplatz, the city’s central square, home to St. Peter's Church.

Everything is decorated down to the last detail: lights and Christmas trees fill the pretty streets of the old town. Stroll through the chalets offering handmade crafts and traditional foods like Lebkuchen (gingerbread), Schupfnudeln (potato dumplings), and Lebkuchenherzen, biscuits inscribed with Christmas greetings—a true holiday delight!

Cologne

Next up is the beautiful city of Cologne and its Christmas market, which will leave you speechless. The main market takes place in front of the Cologne Cathedral, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Carol choirs add a festive touch, while an ice-skating rink offers fun for everyone who’s ready to lace up their skates.

When strolling through the city, you will discover several flea markets. The one at Rudolfplatz, with its mediaeval market atmosphere, or the harbour market on the Rhine river, are definitely worth a visit.

Dresde

The Dresden Christmas market's renown is well-deserved, as it has been held every year on Altmarkt square for over 500 years. Nicknamed Striezelmarkt, this market offers a cosy, traditional atmosphere in a beautiful city with unique activities—you definitely won’t get bored!

Be sure to add the Stollenfest to your agenda. At this event, organisers bring a gigantic Stollen (a fruit and spice cake) to the market, where it’s cut up and shared with visitors. Another must-see is the iconic Christmas Pyramid, a carved wooden structure depicting scenes of Christmas and regional traditions.

Heidelberg

Our final destination is the Heidelberg Christmas market, one of Germany’s most picturesque. Set against the backdrop of Heidelberg Castle, this market offers a postcard-perfect scenery.

The market spreads across several of the city’s squares: wander through the illuminated streets, discovering festive delights at each turn. Universitätsplatz hosts the largest market, while Kornmarkt square features a miniature market for children. The Marktplatz market showcases handicrafts, where you can find wooden and glass objects, Christmas decorations, and other homemade specialties—perfect for finding Christmas presents to take home.

Hire a car and discover Germany

To visit the best German Christmas markets, we recommend hiring a car. You’ll have the freedom to create your own itinerary, visiting one or all of the markets mentioned here or exploring others, such as those in Hamburg, Rothenburg ob der Tauber, or Leipzig. This way, you can comfortably and conveniently tour Germany. If you’re planning a trip to Bavaria, be sure to explore its beautiful mediaeval villages, too!

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