Christmas season: Germany's most beautiful Christmas markets | 2024 recommendations


With the European Christmas season about to begin, the streets of Germany are beginning to fill with the aroma of mulled wine (Glühwein) and grilled sausages (Bratwurst), and fairytale Christmas markets are opening one after another. From time-honored traditional markets to modern and innovative niche markets, each one is truly captivating!

Collect this collection of German Christmas markets to add some magic to your winter trip! 

Dresden Christmas Market Striezelmarkt This historic Christmas market (established in 1434) features highlights like the world's largest 15-meter-high step pyramid and a giant walk-through candle arch. Also featured is the popular Stollen Festival, featuring a four-ton cake! November 27th – December 30th

Nuremberg's Christkindlesmarkt is a world-renowned Christmas market, boasting a unique "Christmas city within a city." Must-see: The limited-edition hot red mug! November 29th – December 30th

Lübeck's Weihnachtsmarkt Christmas Market is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the "Christmas City of the North." Don't miss the Lübeck Marzipan and Marine Christmas Markets. November 21st – December 30th

Kassel's Fairytale Christmas Market, themed after Grimm's fairy tales, features a 22-meter-high pyramid and a fairytale slide that will transport you back to your childhood. November 25th – December 23rd

Munich's Christkindlmarkt Christmas market at St. Marienplatz dates back to the 14th century. Highlights: The square's 24-meter-tall Christmas tree and the surrounding art galleries. November 25th – December 24th.

Berlin's Gendarmenmarkt Square Christmas Market, Weihnachtsmarkt am Bebelplatz, has moved to Bebelplatz this year, featuring a white tent and 1,000 fairy lights. It runs from November 25th to December 29th.

Weihnachtsmarkt am Dom: The magnificent Cologne Cathedral illuminated by 70,000 lights. November 18th – December 23rd

Hamburg Christmas Market Weihnachtsmarkt: The Christmas market in Hamburg is a must-see! The Scandinavian-style market is also unique. November 23rd – December 30th

Lindau Harbour Christmas Market Hafenweihnacht is a new market with Lake Constance and the Alps as its background. It is picturesque. Time: See the official website for updates

Dortmund's Christmas town, Weihnachtsstadt, boasts the world's largest Christmas tree, made up of 1,700 fir trees and reaching a height of 45 meters. Time: See official website for updates.