Germany is famous for its Christmas markets, which attract visitors from around the world each year with their festive atmosphere, delicious food, and unique handicrafts. In this guide, we’ll take a tour of some of the best Christmas markets in Germany and explore the traditions and customs that make them so special.
- The Nuremberg Christmas Market is one of the oldest and most famous in Germany. Its history dates back over 400 years. It’s known for its traditional gingerbread cookies and handmade toys.
- The Dresden Striezelmarkt is another historic Christmas market, with roots dating back to the 15th century. It’s named after the Striezel, a traditional fruitcake that’s a local specialty.
- The Munich Christmas Market is one of the largest in Germany, with over 160 stalls selling everything from handmade crafts to mulled wine and roasted chestnuts.
- The Cologne Christmas Market is spread across several locations in the city, with each market offering its own unique attractions and activities. It’s known for its festive atmosphere and its famous spiced wine, known as Glühwein.
- The Frankfurt Christmas Market is one of the oldest and most traditional in Germany, with a history that dates back to the 14th century. It’s known for its handmade crafts and local delicacies like marzipan and hot apple cider.
- The Stuttgart Christmas Market is famous for its beautifully decorated wooden stalls, which sell a wide range of gifts and souvenirs. It’s also known for its carousel and Ferris wheel, which offer stunning views of the city.
- The Rothenburg ob der Tauber Christmas Market is held in the town’s medieval town square, which is decorated with twinkling lights and traditional wooden stalls. It’s known for its handmade ornaments and local specialties like Schneeballen, a pastry made from fried dough.
- The Erfurt Christmas Market is known for its historic setting, with many of its stalls located in the city’s beautiful cathedral square. It’s also famous for its handcrafted Advent calendars and gingerbread cookies.
- The Lübeck Christmas Market is held in the city’s historic Old Town, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It’s known for its marzipan, which is a local specialty, and its beautiful Christmas lights and decorations.
- The Aachen Christmas Market is known for its festive atmosphere, with many of its stalls offering handmade crafts and local delicacies like Printen, a type of gingerbread. It’s also famous for its unique location, with many of its stalls located around the city’s beautiful cathedral.
By exploring the best Christmas markets in Germany, you can gain a deeper appreciation for the country’s rich traditions and customs. From handmade crafts and delicious food to beautiful decorations and festive music, Germany’s Christmas markets offer a unique and unforgettable experience for visitors of all ages.