The Christmas Markets in Germany are among the most beautiful in the world and attract millions of visitors from Germany and abroad every year. This year, they have all opened normally again, after many had to remain closed last year or were only allowed to open with restrictions. But which is the most beautiful Christmas market in Germany? The Nuremberg Christmas Market, the Dresden Striezelmarkt and the Cologne Christmas Market at the Cologne Cathedral are among the favorites every year. But there are also many other markets that are worth a visit. I visited the Christmas Markets in Cologne, Mainz and Oberhausen myself. I also asked some of my travel blogger colleagues for their tips for the most beautiful Christmas Markets in Germany, which they will share with you in this blog article.

The historic Christmas Market at Mainz Cathedral - Copyright: Vanessa Schade - The Travelling Colognian
The historic Christmas Market at Mainz Cathedral – Copyright: Vanessa Schade – The Travelling Colognian

Cologne Christmas Markets

There are four large Christmas markets in Cologne, which attract numerous visitors from Germany and even from abroad in addition to the people of Cologne every year. These are the Christmas market at Cologne Cathedral, the Christmas market in Cologne’s old town, the Christmas market at Neumarkt, also known as Market of Angels (Markt der Engel), and the Christmas market at Rudolfplatz, also known as Nikolausdorf. But the Harbor Christmas market in the Rheinauhafen directly at the chocolate museum and the Christmas market in the Stadtgarten (city garden) are also very popular and atmospheric. In addition, there is the Christmas market on Chlodwigplatz, the Winter Magic (Winterzauber) at Eigelstein and the smallest Christmas market in Cologne at the Luther Church in the southern part of the city, as well as various Christmas markets in the Cologne districts. Read more about them in my blog article about the best Christmas markets in Cologne.

The Cologne Christmas market at Neumarkt – Copyright: Vanessa Schade – The Travelling Colognian

CentrO Christmas Market in Oberhausen

The CentrO Christmas market in Oberhausen stretches along the CentrO promenade in the outdoor area of the large shopping center. A toboggan run with real snow awaits you here, as well as the Ferris wheel, which has moved closer to the CentrO because of the Christmas market. For children there is a fairy tale tree, a gnome train and a colorful elf carousel.

The 130 Christmas huts are decorated differently, which gives this Christmas market a special charm. The selection at the huts ranges from nutcrackers, Kastel ceramics, nativity scenes, glass art, winter accessories, South Tyrolean carvings, leather goods, felt articles, Asian handicrafts to spices, spice flowers, angels, candles, jewellery, amulets and talismans. Käthe Wohlfahrt and the candy maker also have a hut at this Christmas market.

In the Flachaualm you can enjoy Kasnocken, Spezialgröstl and Kaiserschmarren. Otherwise, the culinary offer ranges from Hungarian langos, potato twisters and baked potatoes, raclette, spaetzle, tarte flambée, pasta made from a Parmesan loaf, mushrooms and cauliflower, soups, flame salmon, sausages and grilled specialties to pancakes, churros, donuts, Christmas cookies, liquorice and herbal sweets as well as other delicacies.

  • Dates: November 11 to December 23, 2022.
  • Opening Hours: Sunday to Thursday from 11 AM to 9 PM, Friday from 11 AM to 10 PM and Saturday from 10 AM to 10 PM.
The CentrO Christmas market in Oberhausen at the CentrO Promenade - Copyright: Bengt Langer
The CentrO Christmas market in Oberhausen at the CentrO Promenade – Copyright: Bengt Langer

Historical Christmas Market at Mainz Cathedral

The historic Christmas market in Mainz is also one of the most beautiful Christmas markets in Germany. The location in front of the impressive Mainz Cathedral at the Höfchen, Market and Liebfrauenplatz gives it a very special atmosphere. The Mainz Christmas market developed as the successor to the Nikolose market and can look back on a tradition of more than 200 years. As soon as you enter the Christmas market through the entrance at the Höfchen, you can see the eleven-meter-high Christmas pyramid from the Ore Mountains, in which, in addition to angels and Santa Claus, the Mainzelmännchen, Gutenberg, the Roman Drusus, the bishop and numerous Mainz carnival personalities are circling. If you enter the Christmas market through the lower entrance at Liebfrauenplatz, you will find a nine meter high music box with 18 hand-carved angels on the roof, which slowly rotate.

In front of the Gotthard chapel of St. Martin Cathedral you will find some hand-carved, life-size nativity figures. Concerts and performances are also regularly held here. The Christmas market looks like a sea of lights thanks to the countless chains of lights that stretch across the market. Children will surely have fun on the two historic carousels.

In the atmospheric honey house you get a variety of honey specialties and beeswax products. At the other, beautifully decorated stands you will find an angel workshop, pottery and leather goods, paper glowing stars, wood fire art, products and games made of wood, candles, herbs and spices, tableware with cat motifs, glass art and jewelery as well as many other decorative items, accessories and gift ideas.

The culinary offer ranges from tarte flambée, potato specialities, soups and stews, sausage and grill specialities, waffles, crêpes, baked goods and herbal sweets to other dishes and drinks.

  • Dates: November 24 to December 23, 2022.
  • Opening Hours: Sunday to Thursday from 11 AM to 8.30 PM, Friday and Saturday from 11 AM to 9 PM.
The historic Christmas Market at Mainz Cathedral - Copyright: Vanessa Schade - The Travelling Colognian
The historic Christmas Market at Mainz Cathedral – Copyright: Vanessa Schade – The Travelling Colognian

Christmas Market in Frankfurt am Main

Due to its size and number of visitors, the Frankfurt Christmas market is one of the most important Christmas markets in Germany. It stretches across Römerberg, Paulsplatz, Mainkai, Hauptwache, Friedrich-Stoltze-Platz and Roßmarkt. There you can explore the numerous stalls. A visit from St. Nicholas is on the agenda for December 6th.

Although it is almost traditionally littered with scorn and ridicule, the huge Christmas tree at the Römer is a real eye-catcher. “Manni”, as it is called this year, is one of the largest Christmas trees in the country with a height of 25 meters. Not far from there, on Friedrich-Stoltze-Platz, there is the so-called “Rosa Weihnacht”, a gastronomic area that is aimed in particular at the gay community.

Another highlight at the Frankfurt Christmas market is the great singing of Advent carols in the Church of our Lady (Liebfrauenkirche). Every Saturday at 7:30 PM, visitors sing well-known Advent carols together with choirs and instrumental ensembles. In the evenings, regular Advent concerts are held on the Römer stage, including performances by the Frankfurt Police Choir. The popular carillon sounds three times a day. In addition, the artists’ Christmas market will celebrate its 100th anniversary in 2022.

There is also a lot on offer in culinary terms at the Frankfurt Christmas market. But between all the classics, you should definitely try the Bethmännchen. You can find the marzipan specialty almost everywhere and it belongs to Frankfurt like Handkäs’ mit Musik and Ebbelwoi. So that you can feast your way through all the delicacies and enjoy one or the other alcoholic drink, it is best to travel by public transport. Parking spaces in downtown Frankfurt are rare and the subway stops right at the Römer.

  • Dates: November 21 to December 22, 2022.
  • Opening Hours: Monday to Saturday from 10 AM to 9 PM, Sunday from 11 AM to 9 PM.
The Christmas market in Frankfurt am Main - Copyright: Christina Schneider - TRIP TO THE PLANET
The Christmas market in Frankfurt am Main – Copyright: Christina Schneider – TRIP TO THE PLANET

On her travel blog TRIP TO THE PLANET, Christina writes about short trips, city breaks, day trips, hikes, bike tours and road trips for the little break in between. General travel tips and travel photography are also not neglected.

Mannheim Christmas Market

The Mannheim Christmas market is one of the oldest and largest in the country. A total of no fewer than 200 huts are waiting for you, inviting you to feast, stroll and shop for Christmas gifts and decorations. There is a lot to discover here and you might even come up with one or the other gift idea for the holy feast. It takes place around the water tower, in the heart of the square city, and is therefore also in a really nice location. So don’t forget your camera! There is a carousel organ and an 18 meter high Christmas pyramid that you can climb. There is even a café at the top. Cool right? There is also a stage with a varied programme: choirs sing, dancers dance… There’s really something going on here! It will take place in 2022 without restrictions.

  • Dates: November 21 to December 23, 2022.
  • Opening Hours: Monday to Sunday from 11 AM to 9 PM.
Christmas Market in Mannheim - Copyright: Barbara Riedel - Barbaralicious
Christmas Market in Mannheim – Copyright: Barbara Riedel – Barbaralicious

Barbara writes about digital nomadism, the travel lifestyle and travel in general on her travel blog Barbaralicious. Her focus is on Europe and Asia.

Christmas Markets in Heidelberg

Heidelberg is a picturesque city located in southwest Germany, just one hour from Frankfurt. What makes the Heidelberg Christmas Markets special is that they are nestled beneath Schloss Heidelberg, making them one of the most atmospheric markets in the country. There are actually six market squares within walking distance of each other on the main road in Heidelberg. They each have a variety of traditional stalls offering everything from gingerbread to mulled wine, bratwurst, pretzels, carousel rides, and authentic gift vendors. There is also an ice rink in the main square making it the perfect place to warm up and enjoy some festive fun. If you’re looking for a traditional Christmas market experience, Heidelberg is definitely one of the best Christmas Markets in Germany.

  • Dates: November 21st through December 22nd, 2022.
  • Opening Hours: Sunday to Friday from 11 AM to 9 PM, Saturday from 11 AM to 10 PM.
Christmas Market in Heidelberg - Copyright: Cassie Yoshikawa - Cassie's Compass
Christmas Market in Heidelberg – Copyright: Cassie Yoshikawa – Cassie’s Compass
Cassie Yoshikawa has a serious passion for travel and her mission is to inspire that same love in others. She curates destination guides as well as faith-based travel resources on her blog Cassie’s Compass.

Stuttgart Christmas Market

With over 300 merchants and a market divided into several parts of the main square, the Stuttgart Christmas Market is one of the oldest Christmas markets in Europe.

A children’s fairyland at the town hall, a whole row of houses with vendors selling local gifts and baked goods and stalls in one area serving some of the best German food of the region are just some of the spectacular areas that can be visited at this market.

Instead of an ice rink, there is a roller skating rink and roller skates that you can borrow at the “Wintertraum” this year. A flamingo teaches those who don’t know how to roller skate. The roller skating rink is open until January 8, 2023.

Popular events occurring as part of the magic of the market include concerts at Altes Schloss, which are free to the public. For this year’s market – 2022 – the city has added something new, the Winter Hut, which is an indoor wooden hut that features several fun indoor games and sports as well as an area to enjoy German food. There are two curling lanes in front of the hut.

The best way to get to the market is by train. Stuttgart is served by an airport nearby that connects to local trains that go straight to the center of town. At night there is a night bus line.

  • Dates: November 23 to December 23, 2023.
  • Opening Hours: Monday to Thursday from 10 AM to 9 PM, Friday and Saturday from 10 AM to 10 PM and Sunday from 11 AM to 9 PM.
The Stuttgart Christmas Market - Copyright: Diana Calia – Travels in Poland
The Stuttgart Christmas Market – Copyright: Diana Calia – Travels in Poland

Diana blogs about Poland on her travel blog Travels in Poland. Whether you are traveling there for the first time or have been there before, here you will find information on the best itineraries and hotels, Polish cuisine, culture and local people.

Ulm Christmas Market

For me, the Christmas market in Ulm is one of the most beautiful in Germany. The ambience at the foot of the Ulm Minster – the highest church tower in the world – is simply special. The small streets simply invite you to stroll and there is a lot of regional craftsmanship to discover. I particularly like the relative separation of the sales and food stands. So you can stroll around in peace without having to consider people who are eating. And while eating, you can stand comfortably without the feeling that you’re constantly in the way.

There are plenty of delicacies to discover at the Christmas market in Ulm. I particularly recommend the handmade gingerbread. With so many flavors it’s hard to decide, but after trying them out for a few years I can say they’re all delicious. You will find the stand directly at the Neue Mitte entrance. But also fire sausage and “snowballs” are a regional specialty that you should definitely try. A visit to the “Gold Ochsen” stand is always obligatory for us. The beer gin there is just so delicious. We can’t resist that. Every year we buy a bottle for special occasions. The living nativity scene in the middle of the Christmas market is also very popular. It’s always nice to see the beaming children’s eyes looking at the donkey and sheep. And not only the children are enthusiastic here. The walk through the Ulm Christmas market is simply something very special.

  • Dates: November 21 to December 22, 2022.
  • Opening Hours: Monday to Sunday from 10.00 AM to 8.30 PM.
The Christmas market at Ulm Minster - Copyright: Kathleen Marr – Immer auf Reisen
The Christmas market at Ulm Minster – Copyright: Kathleen Marr – Immer auf Reisen

Kathleen writes on her blog Immer auf Reisen about traveling in Germany, Europe and the world. There are also regular hiking routes and city trips to be discovered.

Munich Christmas Markets

Travelling 2 days to Munich in the winter is perfect to discover the city and its Christmas markets. Every year these Christmas markets attract a huge number of visitors and the advantage is that there are several Christmas markets in Munich to visit.

The Munich Christmas market (Münchner Christkindlmarkt) is one of the reasons to visit the beautiful German city. The Weihnachtsmarkt, or Munich Christmas market, attracts thousands of visitors each year. The Christmas market is the perfect place to buy Christmas gifts. Often these Christmas markets are open from November 21 to December 24 and the opening hours are from 11:00 am to 9:00 pm. There are hundreds of cozy stalls scattered throughout the city. You can also iceskate in the center and warm up with delicious hot mulled wine or hot chocolate. Don’t forget to try the “bratwurst” when you visit this Christmas market. There are several Christmas markets in Munich to visit. These three are especially recommended.

Munich Christmas market (Münchner Christkindlmarkt): The Marienplatz is the beating heart of the city. On this square, you will also find the beautiful Neues Rathaus. At this traditional German Christmas market you will find many stalls, mulled wine and other delicacies.

Christmas Market at Sendlinger Tor: This is one of the most atmospheric Christmas markets in the city. Every day there is live music at the Kaiserhof Christmas market.

Christmas Market at the Chinese Turm. In the city park “Englischer Garten” at the Chinesischer Turm you will find one of the nicest Christmas markets. The ideal Christmas market if you want to escape the hectic pace of the big city.

The Munich Christmas market on Marienplatz - Copyright: Daniel Sessler - Unsplash
The Munich Christmas market on Marienplatz – Copyright: Daniel Sessler – Unsplash

Cynthia and Alexander report on hikes and city trips on their travel blog Travel your Memories. During their travels they usually stay in budget and mid-range hotels.

Nuremberg Christmas market (Nürnberger Christkindlesmarkt)

Nuremberg is known for the classic Christmas market in Germany. The iconic medieval city is located in Franconia, in Bavaria. Located at the Hauptmarkt in the old town next to the Schöner Brunnen and near the castle, locals call it the Christkindles market. It starts every year at the end of November and wraps up on Christmas day the 24th December. Visitors can experience true Christmas vibes daily from 10 am to 9 pm and the entry is completely free. Look out for food specialties such as the true Nuremberger Lebkuchen cookies. Lebkuchen are a form of gingerbread spiced cookies and the Nuremberg Lebkuchen are legendary thanks to the way they are prepared with dried candied fruits and nuts.

The city has a long tradition as an important trading post and the Jewish community called it their home in Medieval and Renaissance times. As traders, they brought many spices, dried fruits and nuts from the Middle East and Asia and due to this abundance, Nuremberg became rich in food specialties. On a stroll through the streets of Nuremberg, don’t forget to look out for the famous Nuremberg sausages, they are just irresistible street food favorites! If you have a few days to spare in this magical German city, visit more fascinating landmarks in Nuremberg to complete your trip.

  • Dates: November 25 to December 24, 2022.
  • Opening Hours: Monday to Sunday from 10 AM to 9 PM, on December 24 from 10 AM to 2 PM.
Stand with gingerbread hearts at the Nuremberg Christmas Market - Copyright: Paul D’Souza – PaulMarina
Stand with gingerbread hearts at the Nuremberg Christmas Market – Copyright: Paul D’Souza – PaulMarina

Paul travels with his wife through Europe and Asia. On his travel blog PaulMarina, you will find travel recommendations for couples, off-the-beaten-path tips and city guides.

Historical Christmas Market at the Wartburg

The Wartburg towers over the city of Eisenach and is a very special place – not only because the castle is part of the UNESCO World Heritage. It is certainly famous for the stay of Martin Luther and the translation of the Bible into German, which he made in this place.

But there is another reason why a visit to the Wartburg is worthwhile, especially during the Christmas season. The historic Christmas market at the Wartburg takes place here on the weekends before Christmas.

During this time, the Wartburg is transformed into a magical place. The first stalls await you even before the gates of the castle. If you go through the gate into the inner courtyard, it’s like a little journey into another time.

Torches and fireplaces create a cozy atmosphere in the medieval ambience. There are small stalls on every corner that offer goods – from candlesticks to soap makers to herbalists.

The scent of Christmas delicacies fills the air and it’s time for the first mulled wine or mead. A varied program of music, trickery and stories rounds off the offer at the Christmas market.

For those interested in history, there is also a free visit to some of the Wartburg’s rooms in this special ambience.

  • Dates: November 26 and 27, December 3 and 4, December 10 and 11, and December 17 and 18, 2022.
  • Opening Hours: 10.00 AM to 7.00 PM.
  • Entrance fee: 8 Euros for adults.
Historical Christmas market at the Wartburg - Copyright: Nicolo Martin – Nicolos Reiseblog
Historical Christmas market at the Wartburg – Copyright: Nicolo Martin – Nicolos Reiseblog

You’ve come to the right place on Nicolo’s Reiseblog if you want to accompany Nicolo on his voyages of discovery through Europe and the adjacent Mediterranean Sea.

Dresden Striezelmarkt

With so many amazing Christmas markets in Germany, it can be hard to decide which ones to go to. If you’re looking for tradition and history, Dresden is a top choice. Dresden is located south of Berlin in eastern Germany, so it’s easy to get from Berlin to Dresden by train, which takes about 2 hours. The main Christmas market in Dresden is the famous Striezelmarkt held in the Altmarkt Square. This is considered the oldest Christmas market in the world, so it’s definitely worthy of a trip.

When you get to the Striezelmarkt you will notice a tall wooden structure, which is called an Erzgebirge pyramid. These are common at German Christmas markets, but this one is special because it holds the title of the tallest Erzgebirge pyramid in the world. It’s height comes in at 14.62 meters, or almost 48 feet tall.

The stalls at the Striezelmarkt are well organized so you can easily walk up and down the aisles to enjoy what’s on offer. The old town gives it a wonderful atmosphere, and you can feel the tradition in the air here. Be sure to try some Stollen, which is a bread similar to fruit cake, and even though you’ll find them all over the country, they are said to originate from Dresden.

While the Stiezelmarkt is an amazing Christmas market, there are other markets to see in the old town. Check out the ones near Frauenkirche, Stallhof, and the Dresden Castle, among others.

  • Dates: November 24 to December 23, 2022.
  • Opening Hours: Monday to Sunday from 10 AM to 9 PM.
Dresden Striezelmarkt - Copyright: Ali Garland – Berlin Travel Tips
Dresden Striezelmarkt – Copyright: Ali Garland – Berlin Travel Tips
On her site, Berlin Travel Tips, Ali loves showing people how to explore her adopted home city of Berlin, where she has been living since 2015.

Magdeburg Christmas Market

Magdeburg as a stronghold at Christmas time? Yes absolutely! There are several Christmas markets within walking distance of each other in the city center of Magdeburg. In addition to the large Christmas market in the heart of the city, around the Alter Markt, there is also the historic Kaiser-Otto-Pfalz Christmas market, a winter magic at the Green Citadel (Hundertwasserhaus) and a Scandinavian Christmas market between the main station and City Carré. And that’s not all: at the same time, the Lichterwelt (world of lights) in Magdeburg will take place with many light sculptures! Strolling through the markets mentioned, you will pass various elements of this world of lights, which immerse the city in a festive glow of lights. The facades are also beautifully decorated. It doesn’t get much more Christmassy than that.

Don’t forget to try one or the other Magdeburg specialty: a bag of the original Magdeburg lard cake, fried liver, kale with Kassler or a delicious Lemsdorfer Lümmel. This is a special grilled sausage.

In particular, the large Christmas market around the Old Market also has a lot of interesting things in store for the little ones. When the kids do their rounds in the fire truck on the children’s carousel, the children’s eyes will definitely light up. Of course, a stroll through the fairy tale alley, where scenes from Grimm’s fairy tales are presented, is also a must.

  • Dates: November 21 to December 29, 2022.
  • Opening Hours: Monday to Thursday from 11 AM to 10 PM, Friday and Saturday from 11 AM to 11 PM and Sunday from 11 AM to 8 PM.
The Christmas market in Magdeburg at the old market - Copyright: Cornelia Döring - Silvertravellers
The Christmas market in Magdeburg at the old market – Copyright: Cornelia Döring – Silvertravellers

On her travel blog Silvertravellers, Cornelia gives tips on short trips, round trips and cruises. The focus here is on enjoying the journey.

Christmas Market at the Red Town Hall (Rotes Rathaus) in Berlin

Sure, Berlin has countless Christmas markets and you can get into the Christmas spirit on almost every corner. A small insider tip for Berlin is the Christmas market at the Red Town Hall (Rotes Rathaus).

The scenery on the west side of Alexanderplatz is something very special, because as soon as it gets dark in Berlin, the town hall, the Berlin TV tower and the Neptunbrunnen all light up. The absolute highlight, however, is the 50-meter high, colorful Ferris wheel with its heated panoramic gondolas. During a ride you experience the Christmas market from a completely different perspective and you can even see the Brandenburg Gate, Potsdamer Platz and even the radio tower. Children and the young at heart will also enjoy the ice rink, which lures you onto the ice over an area of around 600 square metres. And there is something very special for the very young guests: Santa Claus comes three times a day at 4:30 PM, 6:30 PM and 8:30 PM and flies over the Neptune Fountain on a sleigh with a team of reindeer. In addition to classic stands with sausages and mulled wine, there are also stands that offer traditional handicrafts such as Christmas decorations.

  • Dates: November 21 to December 30, 2022.
  • Opening Hours: Monday to Friday from 12:00 PM to 10:00 PM and Saturday and Sunday from 11:00 AM to 10:00 PM.
The Christmas market in Berlin at the Red Town Hall - Copyright: Anne Steinbach und Clemens Sehi – Travellers Archive
The Christmas market in Berlin at the Red Town Hall – Copyright: Anne Steinbach und Clemens Sehi – Travellers Archive

Anne Steinbach and Clemens Sehi write journal articles, authentic stories and give tips in their travel magazine Travellers Archive. They listen to the advice of the locals.

Hamburg Christmas Markets

Hamburg is the second largest city in Germany. It hosts more than 20 Christmas markets, which are located all over the city. Each market has its own theme and part of them are more local neighborhood markets.

The most famous of all the Christmas markets in Hamburg is the historical market at Am Rathaus. Sankt Pauli has a ‘red light’ themed Christmas market and is called Santa Pauli during the Advent period. The oldest Christmas market in Hamburg is in Bergedorf. St. George has a pink Winter pride theme. When looking for a more traditional Christmas market go to St. Petri.

On all these markets German treats are sold, such as curry wurst, roasted chestnuts, lebkuchen, pretzels, glühwein and hot chocolate with rum. The drinks are being sold in mugs. The mug is decorated and changes each year. The mug can be returned, since there’s a deposit on it or it makes a perfect souvenir.

  • Dates: Most Christmas markets are from November 22nd to December 23rd, 2022. Some are also open after Christmas.
  • Opening Hours: Most Christmas markets are open from 11AM to 9 PM.
Stalls at one of the Christmas markets in Hamburg - Copyright: Cosette Karsmakers-Adriaans – KarsTravels
Stalls at one of the Christmas markets in Hamburg – Copyright: Cosette Karsmakers-Adriaans – KarsTravels

KarsTravels is a travel blog on road trips, mostly in Europe and North America. Family travel and food play a big role in this blog.  

Christmas Markets in Lübeck

The eleven Lübeck Christmas markets all take place in the beautiful ambience of the historic old town island. This was added to the list of World Heritage Sites by UNESCO.

The Christmas markets in the Hanseatic city have a long tradition – the first was documented in writing as early as 1648. The great thing about the Lübeck Christmas markets is that they are all almost next to each other and you can stroll from one to the other in a relaxed manner. A visit is also worthwhile in bad weather, as five of the markets are indoors. You can also do a bit of sightseeing at the same time: for example at the arts and crafts market in the 13th-century Holy Spirit Hospital or inside the St. Peter’s Church, from whose tower visitors also have a wonderful view over the old town and the Holstentor – Lübeck’s landmark. For the little ones there is the fairy tale or the gnome forest, as well as the medieval Christmas market, a maritime one and, brand new, the harbor glow at the Drehbrückenplatz.

The Christmas markets in Lübeck, like those everywhere in Germany, usually start on the Monday after the Sunday of the Dead, this year on November 21st. Most Christmas markets in Lübeck take place until December 30th and are open daily.

Mugs at one of the Christmas markets in Lübeck - Copyright: Claudia Sittner – Weltreize
Mugs at one of the Christmas markets in Lübeck – Copyright: Claudia Sittner – Weltreize

Claudia made her big dream come true and traveled around the world for a year. Since then, she has been blogging on Weltreize.com. Her motto: The world begins on your own doorstep. On her active adventure and city trips, she loves trying out new things and leaving her comfort zone with a bit of fear.

Celle Christmas Market

It’s that time again! The holidays are just around the corner and that means it’s time to plan your trip to the best Christmas market in Germany: the Celle Christmas market! Here are our reasons why you should put Celle at the top of your list this year.

The Celle Christmas market is widely regarded as one of the most beautiful Christmas markets in Germany. And not without reason. Framed by numerous historical half-timbered houses and lovingly decorated, the Christmas market stretches through the historic old town of Celle with a colorful mixture of craft stands and numerous eating and drinking stalls.

This year, the Christmas market will take place from the Großer Plan via Robert-Meyer-Platz and Poststraße to the Stechbahn, the central square directly in front of the town church, with more than 80 stands. Unfortunately, the otherwise popular part in front of the sparkling white castle with ice skating rink and small Christmas village is falling victim to the high energy and electricity costs this year.

We are always enthusiastic about the many small stands where you can buy extraordinary goods from small manufacturers and handicraft businesses. In addition to decorative Christmas items made of glass, clay, fabric or felt, handmade beeswax candles, warming lambskin items and unique wooden toys are offered in huts decorated for Christmas.

The Christmas market in Celle is also known for its many delicious treats that can be bought at the stands. From sweet pastries and marzipan to roasted almonds and Nuremberg gingerbread to mulled wine and hot chestnuts, there is everything your heart desires.

  • Dates: November 24 to December 28, 2022.
  • Opening Hours: Monday to Thursday from 11 AM to 8 PM and Friday to Sunday from 11 AM to 9 PM.
Celle Christmas market - Copyright: Oliver Bock – Helga and Heini on Tour
Celle Christmas market – Copyright: Oliver Bock – Helga and Heini on Tour

helgaandheiniontour.com is the travel blog for cosmopolitan city travelers and running enthusiasts. As a freelancer, Judith deals with the topics of running and travel, is an editor and extreme athlete with numerous international successes. Oliver is a professional content creator, social media expert and photographer. Together, the two report on their travels in Europe and the world on their blog.

Winter in the Park – Winter World in Wolfsburg

The winter world in the large park of the Autostadt Wolfsburg is not a classic Christmas market, but rather a winter market. Even if there is no snow, there is a winter feeling there. One of the hills has been redecorated with artificial snow to form a large snow play world with a sledge run for children up to 12 years of age.

The absolute highlight is definitely the 4000 square meter ice surface. During the day you can iceskate there, in the evenings ice dancing is the order of the day at the ice disco. Hot fire tongs punch and punch are served in the magic hut. There are also stalls with Christmas decorations, gift ideas and sweet and savory treats.

The Autostadt emphasizes that, despite artificial snow and artificial ice, it has halved the energy consumption for the Winter in the Park compared to 2019 with various measures. Some lights are gone. But the lights should shine on the big Christmas tree.

  • Dates: November 25 to December 28, 2022.
  • Winter opening times in the park: 12 noon to 10 PM – Ice rink: 10 AM to 10 PM – Magic hut and winter market: Monday to Friday from 2 PM to 10 PM and Saturday and Sunday from 12 PM to 10 PM.
The Winter in the Park winter market in the Autostadt Wolfsburg - Copyright: Angela Misslbeck – Unterwegsmitkind
The Winter in the Park winter market in the Autostadt Wolfsburg – Copyright: Angela Misslbeck – Unterwegsmitkind

Angela describes experiences at the Winter World in the Autostadt Wolfsburg in the article linked above on her travel blog Unterwegs mit Kind. The name says it all: There are ideas, tips and information for excursions and trips with children – from the packing list for hikes to planning a road trip to long-distance travel with kids.

Phantastischer Lichter (Fantastic lights) Christmas Market in Dortmund

Like many other Christmas markets, the Phantastischer Lichter (Fantastic Lights) Christmas Market is finally allowed to open its doors again after a two-year break. This time even under a completely new management and with a new, particularly gentle concept for the park.

The Christmas market takes place in one of the largest parks in Dortmund. The center of the market and the park is a beautiful lake, on which many small boats with candles are set up for the light Christmas market.

The banks of the lake are lined with medieval structures, which are also bathed in a fantastic atmosphere by hundreds of torches and candles.

Not authentic, but fantastic is the motto of the Christmas market. So old storytellers walk around on the paths, telling you stories. Grim Reaper cracks dark jokes and if you get lost too deep in the forest, you can even encounter dinosaurs. Along the way are wrecks of pirate ships on which rotting skeletons slumber.

If that’s not enough for you, then stroll through the stalls and let them sell you a high-proof magic potion or armor and sword. Passing the stalls, you will also meet fire breathers, falconers and even relevant bands such as In Extremo or Saltatio Mortis, who give concerts on five different stages.

  • Dates: November 17 to December 30, 2022.
  • Opening Hours: Thursday to Sunday from 3 PM to midnight. It is open every day from December 19th. Days off: December 24th to 26th, 2022.

On his travel blog A World to Uncover, Patrick gives travel tips, tells you the best diving spots, photo tips and the best recipes to cook at home.

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