Best Preserved Ancient Cities: Timeless Walled Cities
Precisely built to be the last line of protection for historic cities and their people, massive stone walls are silent sentinels from a bygone age.…
Germany’s Christmas markets conjure centuries-old traditions: medieval town squares transform into bustling winter bazaars of candlelit stalls, carols and mulled wine. Visitors move between wooden booths under flickering lights, sampling spiced sausages and gingerbread while artists carve toys or play folk tunes. Cultural anthropologists note that what makes these markets truly memorable is “the whole experience of sound, smell, visuals, but also the physicality of the people around you”. From late November through December, dozens of German cities will host these Weihnachtsmärkte or Christkindlmärkte, each blending history, craft and convivial atmosphere.
Table of Contents
General Patterns. Most markets kick off in the final week of November and wrap up by December 23. The first Sunday of Advent in 2025 is November 30, and many cities open on the preceding Friday, November 28. A few major cities even begin earlier (Monday, November 24) to stretch the season. Markets typically continue through December 23 or 24, pausing for Christmas Eve and Christmas Day. In fact, many markets close by late afternoon on Dec 24 (Christmas Eve) and resume only after Dec 26, if at all.
2025 Dates by City. The schedule for 2025 is similar across cities: most markets run about four weeks. For example:
– Munich: The famous Christkindlmarkt at Marienplatz is set for Nov 7 – Dec 24, 2025, with related events (like the Christmas Village) extending to Jan 6, 2026.
– Berlin: Hundreds of stalls across the city open roughly Nov 13, 2025 – Jan 5, 2026. (Berlin’s main Gendarmenmarkt site itself is Nov 24–Dec 31.)
– Frankfurt: Markets typically span Nov 24 – Dec 23, 2025.
– Cologne: Various markets run Nov 17 – Dec 23, 2025. (Cologne has multiple themed markets, including the Cologne Cathedral market and a fairy-tale market at Alter Markt.)
– Nuremberg: The Christkindlesmarkt will operate Nov 28 – Dec 24, 2025. (It closes on Dec 24 at midday.)
Other notable dates: Dresden’s historic Striezelmarkt is Nov 29 – Dec 31, 2025. Hamburg’s markets run Nov 24 – Dec 23, 2025. Major markets usually follow this pattern: late-November start, roughly three to four weeks open, with Christmas Eve either short-hours or closed.
After Christmas. Most close by Dec 23–24. Two exceptions run into early January: Munich’s Christmas Village at Nymphenburg Palace remains open until Jan 6, 2026, and Berlin’s markets extend past New Year (Gendarmenmarkt goes to Dec 31, and other Berlin markets often stay open into Jan). In contrast, Dresden ends on Dec 31 and Nuremberg on Dec 24. There are no markets on Dec 25 (Christmas Day).
Munich offers a rich network of markets, led by the grand Christkindlmarkt at Marienplatz. Against the backdrop of the Neo-Gothic town hall, Marienplatz hosts Munich’s oldest market (roots in the 1400s). In 2025 it runs Nov 24–Dec 24. Officials tout it as the “original market” of Munich, with a huge decorated Christmas tree and a celebrated large nativity scene display. (Live Bavarian brass bands and choirs perform from the Rathaus balcony each day.) Hundreds of stalls form a vibrant maze where shoppers can sip Glühwein, snack on roasted walnuts, and browse Bavarian crafts. The mood is distinctly festive, combining centuries-old charm with modern crowds.
Christkindlmarkt at Marienplatz (Nov 24 – Dec 24, 2025): Munich’s centerpiece market. Visitors browse 140+ wooden huts offering ornaments, toys, gingerbread, local cheeses and warm drinks. Highlights include the massive 30-meter spruce tree and the city’s nativity display. (Admission is free.) Tip: The market gets very crowded by night, so visiting at dusk provides golden light for photos.
Alternative Munich Markets: Munich has several other markets worth exploring. For foodies, the Viktualienmarkt (Munich’s historic food market) hosts a small Advent market with a famous walking Advent calendar and seasonal treats. A few blocks away, the Karl’splatz (St. Michael’s) Eiszauber offers an ice skating rink under the church’s towers (Nov 24 – Dec 23) – a great stop for families. Artisans flock to the Medieval Market at Wittelsbacherplatz (Nov 24 – Dec 23). There, merchants in period costume sell flammkuchen (tarte flambée), grilled sausages over open fire and spiced mead; dozens of wooden huts “bring the Middle Age back to life”. Finally, Munich’s Tollwood Winter Festival (on the Theresienwiese, Nov 25 – Dec 23) is dubbed the city’s “alternative” Christmas market. Tollwood is as much cultural fair as market, featuring international performances, organic food stands and socially conscious crafts. In short, Munich’s markets range from classic to quirky, so allot time for more than one.
Berlin hosts over 60 Christmas markets in late 2025, so visitors have endless choices. The flagship market at Gendarmenmarkt (Nov 24 – Dec 31) exemplifies the city’s flair. A historic square flanked by twin cathedrals and the concert hall, its “WeihnachtsZauber” market features 30+ stalls of finely crafted gifts. Artisans carve wooden toys and mold candles on-site in a large tent pavilion, while the scent of bratwurst and roasted almonds fills the air. (Gendarmenmarkt charges a modest €2 entry for adults.) Evening music concerts complete the polished atmosphere.
Berlin also offers whimsical and themed markets. In old-town Spandau, the Advent market on the Altstadt plaza transforms the streets into a “Christmas world” with market stalls and a Renaissance fair. This is Berlin’s largest market, known for a medieval flair (fire dancers, jugglers and a fairground for kids). For an offbeat scene, the Klunkerkranich (Neukölln rooftop) market is perched atop a parking-garage bar; there you’ll find handmade crafts, art, live indie music and even mulled apple cider on tap. Berlin is also creative: in 2024 the city experimented with “doggie Christmas markets” complete with pet shows. In short, Berlin’s Weihnachtsmärkte range from the grand (Gendarmenmarkt, Alexanderplatz) to bohemian. Speak a little German (“Danke”) and jump on the U-Bahn – most major markets are just steps from central stations (for example, Gendarmenmarkt is a short walk from U-Bahn Friedrichstraße).
Frankfurt’s Christmas market is classic old-world. Centered on the Römerberg (the medieval town hall square) and nearby Paulsplatz, it sprawls through cobblestone alleys of the Altstadt. In 2025 it runs Nov 24 – Dec 23. This market is one of Germany’s oldest and largest, with roots in 1393. In centuries past it was the city’s major winter market where merchants sold winter supplies and the public watched mystery plays. Today the Frankfurt market is famous for its towering Christmas pyramid (a 14-meter wood carousel of nativity figures) and a giant 30-meter fir. It offers numerous food stalls (sausages, Handkäse mit Musik, mulled apple wine) and craft vendors. Despite modernization, the mood is festive and communal. The market is free to enter and usually crowded by early evening. (Minor tip: roaming brass bands in traditional dress often play on Saturdays.)
Cologne’s skyline and its four Christmas markets define the season. The largest and most picturesque is on Roncalliplatz, nestled beneath the twin spires of Cologne Cathedral (Nov 17 – Dec 23). Thousands of white lights outline its 28m tree, and red-and-white stalls ring the plaza. Nearby, the medieval Alter Markt/Heumarkt hosts “Heinzels Wintermärchen”, a fairytale market with 140+ stalls and an ice rink (a nod to the city’s legendary house gnomes, the “Heinzelmännchen”). On the Rhine promenade, the romantic Hafenmarkt (at Rheinauhafen) recreates a harbor village with maritime décor and modern art installations. Each market has its own style – from historic to fanciful – yet all share Cologne’s warm Rhineland hospitality. Thanks to the compact city center, one can easily wander between them on foot (e.g. from the Cathedral market to the Old Town is a 10-min walk).
The Nuremberg Christkindlesmarkt is perhaps the most emblematic German market. Held on the Hauptmarkt square, it runs Nov 28 – Dec 24. Its roots are legendary: this market draws on nearly four centuries of tradition (its name means “Christ child market”). Today it welcomes over 2 million visitors per season. From the moment the hometown Christkind opens the market, it feels like stepping into a timeless scene of red-and-white stalls, gingerbread and carols. Nuremberg’s chefs grill Bratwürste (small sausages) on open grills while kids hang hearts of glazed gingerbread (Lebkuchen, €2–€6 apiece) around their necks. Glühwein, candied almonds and smoked trout are local specialties. The market’s famed craftsmanship (hand-carved wooden nutcrackers, pewter toys and incense burners) makes it a paradise for gift-hunters. In sum, Nuremberg delivers the classic Bavarian-Christmas ambiance in full regalia.
The food stalls are a major attraction. Expect to find classics at every market: Bratwurst (grilled sausages, often in a roll), Glühwein (hot mulled wine with spices), Gebrannte Mandeln (candied roasted almonds), Maroni (roasted chestnuts), Berliner Pfannkuchen (jelly-filled doughnuts), Schmalzkuchen (mini fried cakes), Kartoffelpuffer (potato pancakes) and Waffeln (Belgian waffles with toppings). Christmas cookies and sweets abound: gingerbread (Lebkuchen), cinnamon stars, and local gingerbread varieties. One distinctive Saxon specialty is Schneeballen: deep-fried dough balls dusted with sugar or chocolate (found in places like Rothenburg, Dresden or Nuremberg stalls). Also keep an eye out for Reibekuchen with apple sauce or leek, or savory crepes filled with cheese and ham. For a warm, street-food meal, try grilled salmon on skewers (common in northern markets) or potato Kartoffelspiralen (spiral-cut fries). In short, many markets claim unique twists, but the ubiquitous elements are Glühwein, sausages, and sweet gingerbread treats.
Lebkuchen are soft German gingerbread cookies, often heart-shaped and iced. Nuremberg is famous for Nürnberger Lebkuchen, known as the “Nuremberg gingerbread,” but you’ll find Lebkuchen hearts at virtually every market. They vary by region: some are cakey and honey-sweet (Franconian style), others drier and darker (like Lebkuchen from Aachen). Look for larger stands or dedicated baker stalls to buy fresh ones. Prices typically run €2–6 per heart, depending on size. Tip: They make great gifts or luggage-friendly souvenirs.
Glühwein (hot mulled wine) is the quintessential Christmas market drink. Usually made from red wine heated with cinnamon, cloves, citrus and sugar, it warms hands and spirits. Many markets also offer Weißer Glühwein (spiced white wine) and fruit-glühwein (with berries or exotic fruits). A cup of Glühwein costs around €3–€5 in 2024–25. However, most vendors charge a deposit (Pfand) for the mug: typically €3 or more. You pay roughly €1 extra per cup to keep the souvenir mug, or return the mug for your refund. For example, in Berlin the price recently reached €5 for a mug of Glühwein (a rise from ~€3.25 before). Beer (warm beer is rare), Kinderpunsch (non-alcoholic fruit punch for kids), and spiced cider (Apfelglühwein) are also common. When ordering, a tip: many markets serve Glühwein in beautifully decorated glasses – collect them! Just remember to ask for (“Pfand zurück, bitte”) if you plan to reclaim the deposit.
Each city adds local flair. In Lübeck and northern markets you’ll see Lübeck Marzipan treats prominently displayed (marzipan with Protected Geographical Indication in Lübeck). Nuremberg stands sell the famous Nürnberger Rostbratwurst (short grilled sausages) and gingerbread. In Dresden, try the original Dresdner Christstollen, a fruitcake dusted with powdered sugar. Munich markets often feature Münchner Weißwurst (white sausages) and Obazda (cheesy bread dip) by Bavarian vendors. Cologne might have regional Halver Hahn (rye roll with cheese). A fun note: at Nürnberg’s Kinderweihnacht kids often collect gluten-free treats called “Kinderpunsch” (mulled apple juice) instead of Glühwein. Exploring smaller towns, you’ll find local cheeses (e.g. Allgäu Bergkäse at Bavarian stands) and smoked specialty items (Munich’s smoked hams, Black Forest sausages, etc.). In general, Lebkuchen and Glühwein are everywhere, but keep an eye out for city-specific specialties and local sweets.
Vegetarians and vegans are well-catered to at many markets now. Look for stalls or labels marking veggie/vegan menus. You can often find vegetarian sausages or falafel-style wraps, grilled halloumi, Kartoffelpuffer with apple sauce, Spätzle salads, or currywurst made with plant-based sausage. Sweets like roasted almonds, candied fruit, potato pancakes and Schneeballen are naturally vegetarian. Non-dairy mulled drinks or Kinderpunsch are naturally vegan. Some markets even offer vegan bratwurst or curried Seitan sausages. If you have strict needs, inquire at the stall (“Ist das vegan?”) – some vendors keep allergen info, and bigger cities often have an explicitly “vegan street” section. In a pinch, nut vendors, potato and chestnut stands are safe bets.
Always appreciate the craftsmanship: these artists poured months of labor into their goods. Do not mock the quaint or traditional – for example, the Erzgebirge nutcrackers or wooden smokers might seem old-fashioned, but to locals they’re beloved folk art. In fact, one etiquette guide urges visitors “buy locally made and avoid plastic…and you will enjoy the piece for years to come”. If you’re curious about an item, ask the vendor about it; you might hear a fascinating history. Also mind your waste: use public bins (or take litter with you) to keep the festivity clean.
Are German Christmas Markets Open on Christmas Eve? Generally, Christmas markets wind down by Dec 24. Most markets close by midday on Christmas Eve. For example, Berlin’s popular Gendarmenmarkt operates until 6pm on Dec 24. Similarly, Munich’s markets typically end by early afternoon on the 24th. Nearly all markets are closed on Dec 25 (Christmas Day), and on Dec 26 some smaller pop-up stalls may run afternoon-only. If you arrive on Dec 24, plan to arrive before 4pm or check the city’s official market website for exact closing hours.
Which German Christmas Market Is the Largest? By attendance and scale, Dortmund’s Christmas Market (Ruhr area) is often cited as the largest in Germany. It boasts ~300 stalls and a world-famous giant Christmas tree over 45 meters tall, drawing 3.5 million visitors in recent years. Dortmund’s market spans numerous plazas in the city center. (Another way to see a record-breaking market is in Munich: the city’s main market at Marienplatz draws roughly 3.5 million visitors as well, with over 140 booths.) In any case, “largest” can mean most stalls, most visitors, or largest tree; Germany has claims on all of these. But Dortmund holds the official title by visitor count.
Can You Visit Multiple Markets in One Day? Absolutely. In fact, big cities encourage it. For instance, Berlin alone has over 60 markets scattered in neighborhoods – no one sees them all! In Munich or Frankfurt, the main markets in the old town are within a 10–20 minute walk of each other, so you can easily hop from one square to another on foot. In Cologne, the Cathedral market, Alter Markt, and Hafenmarkt are each a short stroll apart. The key is geography: plan one or two central clusters per day. Public transport (trams, subways) can zip you between districts if needed. Just keep in mind that each visit can take 1–2 hours, so realistically see 2–4 markets per day to enjoy them. If you’re ambitious, an evening train or autobahn trip between cities like Frankfurt→Munich or Berlin→Dresden can allow two different city’s markets in one holiday trip.
Are German Christmas Markets Expensive? They are not cheap, but not exorbitant for one-time treats. A mug of Glühwein typically costs around €3–€5. Sweets like Lebkuchen hearts run ~€3–€6 each. Grilled sausages or crepes are usually €3–€8. Smaller ornaments start in the low single digits, while high-end crafts (wooden nutcrackers, porcelain pyramids) can cost €50–€100 or more. Budget-conscious visitors can sample snacks and skip the big souvenirs. In general, plan on about €20–€30 per person for a hearty snack/meal and drinks. Note that any souvenir mug or glass you keep adds cost (or bring-a-mug scheme). Some markets offer all-inclusive packages (e.g. Berlin’s Spree-all-you-can-eat ticket for €30+), but for most travelers it’s pay-as-you-go.
Do You Need to Speak German to Enjoy the Markets? No, basic English will suffice at most markets. Many vendors have stalls aimed at tourists and can say “two Glühwein, please” in broken English. But it’s respectful to learn a few German phrases: “Guten Tag” (good day), “Bitte” and “Danke” (please/thank you) will be warmly received. Restaurant or hotel staff often speak excellent English, so ordering food or asking questions is easy. Still, knowing a little German vocabulary (Lebkuchen, Würstchen, Glühwein) can enhance the authentic experience. Remember, even if you don’t speak German, a smile and polite gesture go a long way.
Are There Christmas Markets for Children in Germany? Yes, most markets are family-friendly. As mentioned, Nuremberg’s Kinderweihnacht and Munich’s Christmas Village are expressly designed for kids. In general, most markets welcome children with amusements like carousels, puppet theaters and family crafts. Children under 6 often enter free. Note that some markets offer Kinderpunsch (non-alcoholic punch) so kids can join in the glühwein-toast tradition. Stollens (fruitcakes) and gingerbread are sweet on their level. Just keep an eye on kids in dense crowds! Overall, families find the markets enchanting for all ages.
Which Cities Have the Best Christmas Markets? The answer depends on what you seek. The “big five” – Munich, Berlin, Frankfurt, Cologne, Nuremberg – each have distinctive draws (see city sections above). Munich often wins for quaint Bavarian charm and variety, Berlin for sheer number and hip vibe, Nuremberg for tradition, Dresden for age and scale, Frankfurt for a festive downtown. Beyond those, Hamburg and Stuttgart have spectacular markets (both award-winning), Dresden is famous as the oldest, and Rothenburg ob der Tauber is the ultimate medieval feel. Tourism surveys often rank Nuremberg and Dresden at the top. In practice, choose a city that fits your itinerary – all major German cities have at least one excellent market. (As a rule of thumb, bigger cities offer more to see in a few days, but smaller towns offer a cozier ambiance.)
What Are Medieval Christmas Markets? These are markets styled after the Middle Ages. Vendors wear period costume, and the goods emphasize old crafts (leather, pottery, arms & armor). Accompanying entertainment might include sword fights, troubadours, and fire-dancing. Prices in these markets can be a bit higher (themed events draw big crowds), but the atmosphere is immersive. Highlights include Esslingen Medieval Market (Stuttgart region) and the Munich Wittelsbacherplatz market. Children especially enjoy the jousting simulators and archery stands at these events. If you enjoy historical reenactment, these themed markets are a great alternative to the more commercial fairs.
How Long Should I Spend at Each Market? There’s no set rule, but a good estimate is 1–3 hours per market. If you’re there just to stroll and drink in the ambiance, an hour is fine. To eat a meal, watch a performance, or shop extensively, budget at least 2 hours. Giant markets (Munich, Nuremberg) could occupy a whole evening if you like bar-hopping between stalls. In multicity trips, many travelers do 2–3 markets per day, combining midday and evening sessions. Ultimately, follow your interest: there’s no rush beyond the market’s closing hour, so enjoy as long as you like.
Can I Keep the Christmas Market Mugs? Yes – if you pay the extra deposit. Every stall has its own mug design, and by default you pay a refundable deposit (Pfand). If you hand the mug back, you get the deposit (€3–5) returned. But if you “buy” the mug by paying that extra, you get to bring it home as a free souvenir. Many visitors do collect mugs as keepsakes – just remember to pack them carefully! (Broken mugs may incur a charge to your deposit.)
Precisely built to be the last line of protection for historic cities and their people, massive stone walls are silent sentinels from a bygone age.…
France is recognized for its significant cultural heritage, exceptional cuisine, and attractive landscapes, making it the most visited country in the world. From seeing old…
While many of Europe's magnificent cities remain eclipsed by their more well-known counterparts, it is a treasure store of enchanted towns. From the artistic appeal…
Greece is a popular destination for those seeking a more liberated beach vacation, thanks to its abundance of coastal treasures and world-famous historical sites, fascinating…
Lisbon is a city on Portugal's coast that skillfully combines modern ideas with old world appeal. Lisbon is a world center for street art although…
