During the last months of the year, Germany, which is cold and sun-deprived, transforms into a delightful destination for all! The country dazzles with breathtaking decorations and enchanting markets, commonly known as Weihnachtsmarkt, during the weeks preceding Christmas. Sizzling sausages, tangy gingerbread cookies, and mulled wine or Glühwein are just some of the things you’ll get to see and taste if you’re lucky enough to spend Christmas in Germany. The fun doesn’t stop there; visitors can also buy quirky jewellery, traditional handicrafts, and local delicacies, which are common features of these markets. Nothing says Christmas in Germany like these iconic markets, which brilliantly blend rich German culture with holiday cheer and entertainment in a whimsical setting. From hidden fairs in sleepy mediaeval hamlets to those in the country’s heart,
Here’s a list of the best Christmas markets in Germany that you should visit on your next trip to Germany:
Christkindlesmarkt, Nuremberg
From late November to Christmas Eve, Nuremberg glistens and dazzles in festive splendour with the Christkindlesmarkt, Germany’s most popular Christmas celebration. The Nuremberg Christmas market is not only popular in Germany; it is also one of the most famous places to visit during the holiday season. In the first week of December, the fairytale city comes alive with garlanded and embellished timber stands, lightings, and fun rides, while the aroma of roasted almonds, mulled wine, and gingerbread pervades the chilly air. Christmas shoppers from all over Europe flock to this market to find an authentic display of Christmas gifts such as handicrafts, ornaments, quirky toys, and culinary delights. Traditional treats such as Nuremberg’s spicy gingerbread, Bratwursts, and a variety of freshly baked items will tempt your taste buds. The celebration is accompanied by a series of events that complement the charming atmosphere, making Christkindlesmarkt a must-see during your Christmas vacation in Germany.
Marienplatz Christmas Market, Munich
The big daddy of all Christmas Markets in Munich is set against the breathtaking backdrop of the historic New and Old Town Halls, and is atmospherically located in the famous Marienplatz. From November 22nd to December 24th, the festivities at this market maintain the centuries-old customs of market activities in the heart of Munich. The rows of wooden stands decorated with garlands, lights, and ornaments complement the grandeur of the townhouses, and the humongous Christmas tree planted in the centre of the market, as well as the traditional Bavarian goodies on offer, make it a hard-to-miss attraction during the Christmas celebration.
Dresden Christmas Market
Dresden’s Christmas Market, also known as Striezelmarkt, is Germany’s oldest, dating back nearly 600 years. The festival begins at the end of November in the city’s flamboyant and architecturally rich Old Town, against the arresting backdrop of the Church of Our Lady. The vibrant marketplace is a sight to behold. Visitors are enticed by blazing illumination, a charming atmosphere, and a plethora of traditional Saxon treats to choose from in this baroque setting. The Stollen Festival, the massive Christmas carousel, the Pyramid Festival, and the world’s largest nutcracker are among the event’s main draws. Shopaholics can fill their Christmas baskets with fantastic gift items such as handicrafts, candles, pottery, wooden ornaments, and handmade toys, among other things, with over 230 stalls to rummage through.
Lucia Christmas Market, Berlin
The Lucia Christmas Market, named after the Nordic Goddess of Light, is as diverse as Berlin itself. The market, which is popular among locals, is held in the historical area of Kulturbrauerei in the eastern district of Prenzlauer Berg. It opens in the last week of November and runs until December 23rd, inviting visitors to sample German handicrafts, food, beverage, and entertainment with a strong Scandinavian influence, making the market a fascinating Northern European cultural experience.
Am Dom Markt, Cologne
The most famous and largest Christmas market in Cologne has a stunning setting with the Gothic Cologne Cathedral as a backdrop. Every year, millions of people visit the market, which puts on an impressive display of festooneries, lights, and the nostalgic aroma of baked sweets and spices. With 160 red-wooden stands selling traditional crafts, trinkets, food, and drinks, guests can also enjoy live musical performances at this magical location, making their outing even more festive.
Annaberg-Buchholz Christmas Market
Want to see how Germans in small towns celebrate Christmas? Then visit Annaberg-Buchholz, a charming Saxony town nestled in the Ore Mountains known for its most authentic Christmas celebration, where visitors from all over the world can enjoy a more intimate festive experience. The Annaberg-Buchholz Christmas Market begins on December 1st with the traditional Christmas Pyramid and ends on December 23rd with the Grand Miners’ Parade. Throughout the holiday season, all kinds of Christmas goodies, from quirky decorations to trinkets, are available here. Aside from that, guests can savour delectable traditional fare such as chubby sausages, stollen, potato pancakes, and, of course, the ubiquitous mulled wine. The Annaberg Christmas Market has an eclectic collection of fascinating merchandise, such as Erzgebirge figurines and hand-woven lace from Plauen.
