One of our family traditions is to visit a Christmas market in Germany every year. We explore a new city and market each year and stay for up to two nights to look around! The Christmas atmosphere here is fantastic, and there are all sorts of German delicacies to try. Here are reviews of the Beautiful and Cozy Christmas Markets in Germany we have been to so far!
Cologne (or Köln)
Our tradition began five years ago in Cologne. We drove here just before Christmas.
Dates: The Christmas markets in Cologne usually start at the end of November and run until December 23rd. PLEASE NOTE: Check the dates every year, as they may vary.
Location: The Christmas markets in Cologne are spread across various parts of the city, with the most famous ones at Alter Markt and Domplatz, near the majestic Cologne Cathedral.
Highlights:
– Cologne offers one of the most picturesque and largest Christmas markets in Germany.
– There is a vast variety of gift items, handmade crafts, culinary delights, and traditional Glühwein.
– The markets are beautifully decorated, spacious, and create an enchanting atmosphere. There are many stalls to explore.
– Don’t forget the Ferris wheel, especially for a stunning view! This was one of our favorites!
Duisburg
The second year, the tradition continued in Duisburg.
Dates: The Christmas market in Duisburg usually starts at the end of November and runs until December 30th. PLEASE NOTE: Verify the dates every year, as they may vary.
Location: The Christmas market in Duisburg is located in the city center, around König-Heinrich-Platz and Sonnenwall.
Highlights:
– This market is also known for its cozy atmosphere and offers a variety of handmade Christmas gifts, decorations, and comfort food such as pasta, baked potatoes, and sausages.
– There are special activities for children, such as an ice rink and a Santa Claus house.
– We found the city itself to be the least beautiful among all the cities we have visited so far. However, the Christmas market was enjoyable enough to visit!
– The market stretched continuously for a long distance!
Münster
The third year, we went to Münster for Christmas. What a beautiful city it was!
Dates: The Christmas market in Münster usually starts at the end of November and lasts until December 23rd. PLEASE NOTE: Verify the dates every year, as they may vary.
Location: The Christmas market in Münster is located on Prinzipalmarkt, around St. Lamberti Church and the courtyard of the town hall.
Highlights:
– Münster is known for its beautiful Christmas market decorations and atmospheric lighting.
– Here, you can find traditional handmade products, gift ideas, Christmas ornaments, charming stalls for drinks, and typical German food.
– There was a small orchestra on a balcony in the shopping street, which was magnificent.
– The Christmas market in Münster was spread out more throughout the city, which we considered a drawback. We prefer a longer market rather than separate stalls. However, the city itself was stunning, the most beautiful so far in our opinion.
Düsseldorf
Last year, we went to Düsseldorf; we had heard that it’s one of the most enjoyable in Germany! This Christmas market attracts thousands of visitors every year.
Dates: This market usually starts at the end of November and continues until just before Christmas. PLEASE NOTE: Verify the dates every year, as they may vary.
Location: The Christmas market in Düsseldorf takes place in the city center, mainly around the market and the old town. Some well-known locations include Marktplatz, Heinrich-Heine-Platz, and Schadowplatz.
Highlights:
– We found Düsseldorf to be an intriguing city with many unique buildings and a nice shopping center.
– The Christmas market is renowned for its wide range of Christmas products, making it an excellent place for Christmas shopping. You can find artisanal goods, handmade gifts, decorations, toys, candles, local treats, and Christmas ornaments.
– There’s a variety of food to try, including Flamkuchen, reibekuchen, German sausages, pretzels, glühwein, and roasted almonds.
– Live music performances are common, and the city is adorned with festive lighting and decorations, enhancing the atmosphere.
– There are multiple sections in the city with many stalls grouped together, which we found enjoyable!
– Additionally, there are lovely shops in the city center.
We hope you visit these Beautiful and Cozy Christmas Markets in Germany for the ultimate christmas experience! Have Fun!
For more travel destinations, click here!
