The run-up to Christmas is magical - and what could be better than a visit to one of the most beautiful Christmas markets? Whether traditional or modern, cozy or spectacular: Christmas markets are more than just a place to drink mulled wine. They are an experience for all the senses and offer the perfect opportunity to get into the festive spirit. Our ipartment christmas market guide takes you to the best Christmas markets in Germany - selected for ipartment guests who are looking for magical festive escapes. From Berlin to Böblingen, from Hamburg to Cologne: discover markets full of atmosphere, culinary highlights and Christmas inspiration.
The most beautiful Christmas markets for the festive season
Photo: Jeremy Bishop from Unsplash
Berlin: Christmas market on Bebelplatz
The Christmas magic on the Gendarmenmarkt is considered one of the most beautiful Christmas markets in Germany, but had to move until 2025.
This year, the charming stalls around the Staatsoper on Bebelplatz will once again shine. Arts and crafts, leather goods, graphic art, photography and a wide variety of food and drink come together here - all in an impressive setting with a cozy atmosphere. Mulled wine, roasted almonds and more invite you to enjoy. Part of the proceeds will be donated to cultural and social projects in Berlin.
Place
Bebelplatz, 10117 Berlin
Period
November 25 - December 31, 2024
- Daily: 12:00-22:00
- Friday & Saturday: until 23:00
- Christmas Eve: 12:00-18:00
- New Year's Eve: 12:00-0:00
Entrance fee
2 Euro, children up to 12 years free; Monday-Friday from 12:00-14:00 free of charge (except December 24-26 & 31).
Hamburg: Fairytale Christmas magic
Jungfernstieg is where the White Magic unfolds - a Christmas market straight out of a winter fairy tale. Until December 29, impressive light displays enchant visitors and create a dreamlike atmosphere.
Highlight: A ride on the historic Ferris wheel from 1926 is a special experience for young and old.
As you stroll along the festively decorated stalls, you can discover Christmas treats and arts and crafts. The sight of the sparkling Alsterhaus and the glowing Inner Alster rounds off the experience.
Place
Jungfernstieg, 20354 Hamburg
Period
November 25 - December 29, 2024
- Daily: 11:00-21:00
- Friday & Saturday: until 22:00
Entrance fee
Free
Braunschweig: Christmas market with historical flair
In the heart of Braunschweig, around St. Blasii Cathedral and Dankwarderode Castle, the Christmas market unfolds a magical atmosphere. 137 festively decorated stalls offer inspiring arts and crafts, regional specialties and Christmas treats - perfect for an enjoyable Advent stroll.
Immerse yourself in the magical backdrop of historic buildings and discover unique gift ideas, handmade jewelry and warming accessories - a feast for all the senses!
Place
Around St. Blasii Cathedral and Platz der Deutschen Einheit
Period
November 27 - December 29, 2024
- Opening day: 17:45-21:00, market open from 18:00
- Monday-Saturday: 10:00-21:00
- Sundays & public holidays: 11:00–21:00
- December 29: 11:00–20:00
Break December 24 & 25
Entrance fee
Free
Frankfurt: Christmas magic between half-timbered houses and lights
In the middle of the old town, surrounded by historic half-timbered houses, Frankfurt's Christmas market shines in all its glory. Around 200 lovingly designed stalls entice visitors with handicrafts, toys, candles and Christmas decorations.
One highlight is the 32-metre-high Christmas tree, which illuminates the picturesque backdrop of Römerberg, Paulsplatz, Mainkai and the Hauptwache with over 6,000 lights. Frankfurt specialties such as sweet Bethmännchen, Brenten and Quetschemännchen or a hot apple wine sweeten the festivities.
Let yourself be enchanted by the magical atmosphere and the wide range of products on offer - it's well worth a visit!
Place
Römerberg, Paulsplatz, Mainkai, Hauptwache, 60311 Frankfurt am Main
Period
November 25 - December 22, 2024
Opening hours:
- Sunday: 11:00–21:00
- Monday-Saturday: 10:00-21:00
Entrance fee
Free
Wolfsburg: Winter wonderland in the Autostadt
Until January 7, the Autostadt Wolfsburg will be transformed into a magical winter wonderland with something for the whole family. In addition to a winter market with 24 festively decorated stalls, there is a 4000 m² ice rink and a 1100 m² snow world for tobogganing, romping around and building snowmen.
Immerse yourself in this winter wonderland and enjoy unforgettable moments!
Place
Autostadt Wolfsburg
Period
Until January 7, 2025
Opening hours:
- Ice rink: Daily, 10:00–22:00
- Snow world: 12:00–20:00
- Winter Market: Monday-Friday from 14:00, weekends from 12:00, until 22:00
Entrance fee
Free entry. Skates can be rented on site for 4 euros.
Cologne: Traditional Christmas market at Alter Markt and Heumarkt
The Christmas market at Alter Markt, also known as the “Home of the Heinzel”, delights with its rustic charm and atmospheric ambience. Surrounded by nostalgic little houses, it transports visitors back in time - without any modern frills.
Highlights:
- Traditional flair: This market has been delighting visitors with its authentic atmosphere since 1820.
- Craftsmanship: Themed alleyways invite you to watch craftsmen at work or discover handicrafts.
- Ice skating rink: A highlight for young and old - perfect for winter fun.
- Rustic pleasure: Cozy taverns offer warming drinks in a convivial atmosphere.
Immerse yourself in Cologne tradition and enjoy the magical ambience of this special Christmas market!
Place
Alter Markt and Heumarkt, Cologne
Period
End of November until December 23, 2024
Opening hours:
- Monday-Sunday: 11:00-22:00
Entrance fee
Free
Leverkusen: Christmas idyll in the Bergisches Dorf
The Bergisch village in Opladen transforms Kölner Straße into a festively illuminated winter paradise. For 46 years, this Christmas market has been delighting visitors with its family atmosphere and charming mix of traditional flair and festive coziness.
Highlights:
- Christmas booths: Discover handmade gifts and regional specialties.
- Culinary delights: Mulled wine and tasty treats ensure convivial evenings, daily until 22:00.
- Special ambience: The pedestrian zone shines in festive splendor - ideal for a relaxed stroll.
Let yourself be enchanted by the festive atmosphere of the Bergisch Village!
Place
Kölner Straße, Opladen
Period
November 21 - December 30, 2024
Opening hours:
- Monday-Saturday: 11:00–20:00
- Sunday: 12:00–20:00
Entrance fee
Free
Böblingen: Fairytale Advent magic on the Schloßberg
Embedded in the historical backdrop of the Schloßberg with its half-timbered houses, town hall and town church, Böblingen's Christmas market shines in the magical splendor of the “World of Fairy Tales”. The Christmas magic delights with a festive atmosphere and a variety of arts and crafts, Christmas decorations and regional delicacies.
Highlights:
- A fairytale setting: Picturesque stills of well-known fairytale characters create a special atmosphere.
- Christmas offer: From arts and crafts to mulled wine and the smell of gingerbread, there is something for everyone.
- Festive Flair: The Schloßberg becomes an atmospheric meeting place for the whole family.
An unforgettable experience in a historical and fairytale setting - perfect for the run-up to Christmas!
Place
Marketplace at the Schloßberg, Böblingen
Period
Mid-November to December 2024
Opening hours:
- Wednesday-Saturday: 12:00-22:00
- Sunday: 12:00–20:30
Entrance fee
Free