German Christmas Markets - A Magical Wonderland

On a cold, winter's night, nothing beats visiting a German Christmas Market with warm gluhwein in hand and bratwurst fresh off the grill - whether in Nuremberg or medieval Lubeck! These festive celebrations offer everything needed for the ideal winter break!

Many markets feature craft stalls and children's activities for children as well as nativity scenes and some of Germany's finest Christmas ornaments.

Berlin

Berlin is Germany's capital city and home to an abundance of festive Christmas markets that start popping up towards the end of November and will run throughout December. Offering everything from cozy local markets to designer options and alternative offerings, Berlin's various Christmas markets have something special for every visitor.

Gendarmenmarkt or Bebelplatz is one of Berlin's best-known markets, boasting wooden stalls offering traditional crafts, gifts, and delicious treats ranging from gifts for your holiday shopping list and delicious treats such as hot mulled wine (Gluhwein) or freshly roasted chestnuts. It makes a festive shopping experience.

Another popular Christmas market is the Weihnachtsmarkt am Berliner Mauer, an institution since 1628 that features traditional food and gifts as well as two carousels for children to have some festive fun.

For something a bit different, visit the Adventmarkt im Schloss Charlottenburg held in a 450-year-old castle. Offering bonfires, carriage rides, and even an organic Christmas tree farm as well as handmade nougat or marzipan treats like handmade nougat or marzipan treats and organic cheese products; it makes an excellent escape from city center crowds!

Other popular markets in Berlin include the Weihnachtsmarkt im Rathaus, which provides the ideal spot to purchase last-minute Christmas gifts for loved ones. Attractions of this festive market include giant Ferris Wheel rides, an Ice Skating Rink, and stage performances.

The Christmas Market in Mitte's historic district is an essential destination for anyone seeking unique handmade items and an experience of German culture. One of the liveliest markets in Germany, its central location makes it a must-see stop.

The market offers many restaurants and cafes as well as numerous bars and lounges where visitors can relax over a cup of Gluhwein or warm schnapps, and purchase delicious local specialties such as Nuremberg gingerbread or Christstollen.

Nuremberg

Nuremberg's Christkindlesmarkt is renowned for being Germany's largest and most iconic Christmas market and should not be missed during your travels in Germany during December. The market stands against the stunning Gothic cathedral of Strasbourg and features an endless sea of wooden booths with candy-striped roofs. Visitors to the region can sample everything from delicious local foods such as schnitzels, stollen, and special lebkuchen to delectable regional desserts such as caramelized apples, roasted almonds, and chocolate. At Christmas markets and fairs throughout Germany and Austria, traditional hot mulled wine known as Gluhwein should definitely be sampled, while decorations ranging from mass-produced soldiers to handmade Santas designed as family heirlooms may also be found for sale.

One of the highlights of Nuremberg Christkind Market's attractions is its massive selection of toys for children and infants - with an exclusive section for baby toys! Additionally, daily greetings by Nuremberg Christkind herself - and her traditional costume - greet children. Additionally there is a petting zoo, ferris wheel ride, open fires where visitors can grill sausages over open fires as well as take a ride on the famous Nurnberger Riesenrad (giant rotating Ferris wheel).

If you prefer more intimate markets, visit the Sister City Market just north of Christkindlesmarkt. This special market honors Nuremberg's longstanding position as an important trading port and features products from 24 of Nuremberg's sister cities throughout Europe and beyond, including Italy, Ukraine, and Scotland as well as creative Christmas supplies from this unique market.

Rothenburg ob der Tauber offers one of Germany's most picturesque Christmas markets, located in its picturesque Bavarian town with colorful half-timbered houses and cobblestone streets. Held annually on Rothenburg ob der Tauber's historic market square, this market features traditional Bavarian goods such as delicious gingerbread to delectable sausages - not forgetting its signature Schwibbogen (an enormous pot filled with brandy that fills and then spins around for an amazing display)!

This magical market is an ideal spot for families, providing plenty of activities for both children and adults alike. There are various artisanal stalls selling hand-woven woolen goods and wood carvings; there's even a train that runs around to give scenic tours through this historic district!

Lubeck

German Christmas Markets are well-known for delighting both shoppers and visitors. Offering traditional handicrafts, food, beverages, and entertainment themed around Christmas - including pyramids with rotating nativity scenes or multi-tiered carousels featuring holiday entertainment - German cities typically host these festive markets; certain cities stand out for hosting additional attractions or unique events that draw crowds each year.

Aachen's Historic Christmas Market takes place each year around the Cathedral of St. Lamberti and adjacent market square, providing a great place to purchase authentic Aachener Printen as well as sample the local specialty, Aachen Christmas Liver Sausage. Other activities at the market include children's games, raffle tickets for prizes donated by merchants, as well as visits from St. Nicholas and Krampus!

This market is one of the largest in Northern Germany and features an incredible skyline. Stalls and walkways are set against a picturesque medieval town's half-timbered houses; guests can purchase everything from wooden Christmas tree ornaments to hand-crafted jewelry at this market, along with regional foods like grilled sausages, fried cheese, and an exclusive type of marzipan. A fantastic place for spending quality time with friends and family!

Frankfurt's Christmas Market is an absolute must, while the city's UNESCO World Heritage-listed old town provides its own charming experience. Stroll along Romerberg, lined by traditional half-timbered houses, and browse the many stalls selling local crafts and homemade delicacies. There is also a selection of restaurants and cafes nearby, making your trip all the more festive with a cup of mulled wine in hand!

Lubeck's Maritime Christmas Market offers visitors another wonderful way to immerse themselves in German Christmas tradition. Situated on Koberg Square in the old seafarers' district, this market provides visitors of all ages with an enjoyable Christmas experience. Explore trinket-laden stalls, listen to seasonal concerts, and taste delectable treats such as Lubeck Marzipan; children will delight in riding the merry-go-round and Big Wheel for stunning views of Lubeck's historic architecture.

Lubeck is an ideal location for spending the holidays, with its picturesque castle, cobbled streets, and magical Christmas Markets. At Rathausmarkt's Historical Christmas Market, you can see thousands of lights illuminate the stalls as festive treats such as roasted nuts, gingerbread, hot mulled wine, and other traditional German treats are served on site - truly getting you into the spirit for Christmas!

Erzgebirge

Germany during Christmas offers many renowned markets that feature cozy stalls selling traditional German gifts, treats, and decorations. Some of the best markets can be found in charming storybook towns with half-timbered houses and red tile roofs such as Rothenburg ob der Tauber; popular with couples seeking romantic getaways but equally ideal for families due to its old-world charm and medieval atmosphere.

Nuremberg's Christmas Market is an essential experience for anyone who appreciates all things festive. Boasting over 250 stalls selling everything from ornaments and handcrafted toys, to Christmas tree ornaments and seasonal decor, Nuremberg's historic market dates back to 1434 and is considered to be Germany's oldest and most genuine Christmas market.

Leipzig's Striezelmarkt is another must-visit Christmas market in Germany, having first been established in 1458 and becoming the second-oldest Christmas market today. Situated near Old Town Hall and featuring more than 250 stalls offering unique holiday gifts and delectable treats - not forgetting trumpet fanfares performed by St Thomas Boys Choir performances to maintain an atmospheric ambiance!

One of the highlights of this picturesque market is its captivating light pyramid, standing over 5 feet high. Made of two to five round wooden tiers gradually becoming smaller as you approach its pinnacle, this magnificent structure is lit with warm LED lights for an impressive sight that makes a striking statement in any home.

German Christmas markets offer more than festive attractions - they also provide delicious regional foods to sample! Try Lebkuchen and Magenbrot cookies; Zwetschgenmanle figures made of decorated plums; and of course Gluhwein hot mulled wine - not forgetting bratwurst sausage and traditional German desserts like Pflaumentoffel made up of prunes covered in caramelized sugar!