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

The European Christmas season is about to begin. The streets and alleys of Germany are beginning to be filled with the aroma of mulled wine (Glühwein) and grilled sausages (Bratwurst), and fairy-tale Christmas markets are also opening one after another. From traditional markets with a long history to niche markets full of modern creativity, every market is a must-see!

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

 Dresden Christmas Market Striezelmarkt The oldest Christmas market (started in 1434) has the following highlights: the world’s largest step pyramid at 15 meters high and a giant walk-in candle arch. There is also the extremely popular Christmas Stollen Festival, where a 4-ton cake will be made! Date: November 27 – December 30

 Nuremberg Christmas Market Christkindlesmarkt is a world-famous Christmas market with a unique "Christmas city within a city". Must-see: Limited edition hot red cup! Date: November 29 – December 30

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


 Kassel's Fairytale Christmas Market Märchenweihnachtsmarkt is themed on Grimm's fairy tales. The 22-meter-high pyramid and fairytale slide bring people back to their childhood. Date: November 25 – December 23

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

 Berlin's Gendarmenmarkt Square Christmas market Weihnachtsmarkt am Bebelplatz moved to Bebelplatz this year, with white tents and 1,000 fairy lights as its hallmarks. Date: November 25 – December 29


 Cologne Cathedral Christmas Market Weihnachtsmarkt am Dom The magnificent Cologne Cathedral is illuminated by 70,000 light beads. Date: November 18 – December 23

 Hamburg Christmas Market Weihnachtsmarkt Highlights: Flying Santa Claus every night! The Scandinavian style market is also very special. Date: November 23 – December 30

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

 Dortmund Christmas Town Weihnachtsstadt has the world's largest Christmas tree, consisting of 1,700 fir trees and 45 meters high. Time: See official website for updates