Germany is the place to be if you want to explore amazing markets. There are thousands of Christmas markets in Germany so we’ve narrowed down some of the best. Shop for gifts in a fortress or in a ship – the markets in Germany have it all!
Did you know that there are more than 2,200 Christmas markets in Germany? There are 60 of them in Berlin alone! If you’re not sure which Christmas market to head to, we’ve created a guide to help you out! We’ve listed the best Christmas markets in Germany by theme – from a market on an island to an ancient German fortress, to the markets that are closest to busy urban centres.
Christmas Markets an Hour (or less) from Frankfurt
Darmstadt Christmas Market
The Darmstadt Christmas market takes more of an international approach with vendors serving Langos from Hungary, cheese from Switzerland, and so much more! The market spans across multiple squares (the market square, Ernst-Ludwig-Platz, Friedensplatz and Luisenplatz) with Santa arriving in his carriage on December 6th.
Wiesbaden Christmas Market
Known as the ‘Twinkling Star’ market, the Wiesbaden Christmas market has four illuminated gates in the shape of lilies that form the entrances into the shopping centre. The market is located at Schlossplatz square, a place where the old and new town halls meet. Life-size nativity scenes, a kids-themed railway, and the 800m² ice rink are sure to keep families entertained.
Frankfurt Christmas Market
Since Frankfurt is a major hub for travellers, why not make a stop at the Christmas market that stretches from Römerberg square to Mainkai Quay? First opened in 1393, the Frankfurt Christmas market is the oldest Christmas market in the world and one of the largest in all of Germany. For even more fun, take one of the themed tours of the market.
Image courtesy: Jochen Keute
Unusual Christmas Markets in Germany
Island of Frauenchiemsee Market
It doesn’t get more romantic than a Christmas market on an island surrounded by the crystal clear Lake Chiemsee in the Bavarian Alps. If you’re on the mainland, it will be impossible to miss the thousands of lights and decorations of this Christmas Market on Fraueninsel Island. There’s also a good chance that you’ll be able to smell the aromas of over 60 stalls selling traditional German cuisine.
Emden Engelke-Markt
Christmas markets on ships? The Emden Engelke-Markt attracts visitors with their maritime theme. Visitors step aboard illuminated museums and traditional sailing ships with Father Christmas appearing every night at the city garden to give out gifts to the children. Time things right and you can even catch Dutch Sinterklaas with his helper “Zwarter Piet” as they arrive by ship.
Bochum Christmas Markets
Bochum is actually home to two Christmas Markets. There’s a traditional one where high-wire artist Falko Traber dresses as Santa Claus and flies twice a day for the crowds. At the medieval market by the Paulus church, actors dress up in period costumes and encourage visitors to experience the old times.
Image courtesy: Bochum Marketing GmbH, Michael Grosler
German Christmas Markets at Castles
Königstein Fortress Christmas Market
Located near Dresden, the Königstein Fortress market motto is “a winter wonderland.” The sparkling lights are known as the most impressive in all of Saxony, but it’s the fairy-tale grotto that gets the kids most excited. Don’t miss the underground Kasematte-Weihnach, which is a smaller Christmas market located under the arches of the Fort.
Charlottenburg Palace Christmas Market
Thirty-six pagodas will also be set up in Charlottenburg Palace so visitors can browse crafts, shop for jewelry, or enjoy some delicious food. Every evening, an original Christmas dining scene will be set up so you can see how the holiday was celebrated in the old days. Some would even argue that this is the best Christmas market in Germany.
Bückeburg Palace Christmas Market
About an hour away from Hanover in Northern Germany, Bückeburg Palace is the place where the Royal Schaumburg-Lippe family resides. During the holidays, the Palace serves as one heck of a backdrop for a Christmas market, so take in your surroundings while you enjoy the festivities.
Image courtesy: Hardy Hochgraef
What to do in Germany
Christmas markets in Germany are such a great way to enjoy the festive season but there is also plenty to do in Germany besides visiting the Christmas markets. If you’re looking for more activities then check out these Skyscanner posts for inspiration. This year, Germany was ranked #2 in Lonely Planet’s top countries, so you know you’ll have a great time!
- Museums Not to Be Missed in Berlin
- Spending a Day in Berlin
- Getting Funky in Kreuzberg Berlin
- Discovering what Munich has to Offer in a Day
- Daytripping to Neuschwanstein Castle from Munich
Need to find a way to get to Germany this year? Check out the Skyscanner search engine for the best deals on flights, car rentals, and hotels!
