Germany transforms into a Winter wonderland each December, offering magical city breaks that are perfect for soaking up the festive spirit. If you love Christmas time and want to add some European flavour, Germany has many great options to seek out that are just a short flight away, from Berlin to Munich and everywhere in between.
These markets aren’t just ideal shopping destinations, but also fantastic for immersing yourself into German traditions and joyful celebrations. Blending the old with the new in enchanting displays that attract visitors from all around the world, below are some of the best places to find a Christmas market for a weekend city break.
Berlin’s Mix of Christmas Markets & Modern Festivities
The German capital has an eclectic mix of history and modernity, and this becomes apparent during the festive season with traditional markets dotted throughout. This array of markets caters to every taste and preference, with the WeihnachtsZauber at Gendarmenmarkt one of the most famous, where vendors sell handcrafted goods, and gourmet treats under a canopy of over a thousand Christmas baubles and lights.
Nearby, at Potsdamer Platz, the Winter World and Christmas Market transforms the area into a snowy wonderland, complete with ice skating rinks, a 12 metre high toboggan run, and traditional curling sheets. For a more modern twist, the Christmas market at Alexanderplatz has a roller skating rink, children’s carousel and plenty of urban street food stalls and exhibitors where you can find mulled wine, bratwurst and lots of handcrafted festive goods. A visit to Berlin is a unique destination for those looking to experience the magic of Christmas in a vibrant city setting.
Munich & Its Bavarian Christmas Charm
Much like Berlin, Munich is another great example of where to find quintessential Bavarian Christmas charm in the city. Central to the city’s yuletide celebration is the Christkindlmarkt held in Marienplatz, Munich’s central square. Beneath the towering town hall is a massive Christmas tree surrounded by stalls selling artisan crafts, from wood carvings to intricate glasswork. This traditional market dates back to the 14th century, and you’ll be able to find everything you need to create your own traditional nativity scene.
Nearby at Wittelsbacher Platz is the Medieval Christmas Market that offers a historical twist, with vendors dressed in period costumes and traditional medieval goods for sale including food and drink inspired from the Middle Ages too. There’s also the Tollwood Winter Festival on the Theresienwiese, famous for hosting Oktoberfest, which transforms into festive performances, organic food, and unique handmade gifts that reflect Munich’s modern, eclectic spirit. Munich’s Christmas markets offer a deeply immersive experience that is a must to enjoy the spirit of the season.
Essential Tips for Your German Christmas Market Getaway
- December can be a peak time for visitors enjoying the markets, so book your hotel or accommodation and any flights and transfers early to secure the best rates and availability.
- German Winters are cold, especially in the evenings. Ensure you pack warm clothing, including thermal layers, a heavy coat, gloves, and a hat.
- While many vendors now accept cards, cash is still king at Christmas markets. Ensure you have enough Euros to enjoy various treats and crafts without the hassle of finding an ATM.
- Don’t go anywhere without booking suitable travel insurance first. Covering the unexpected, look for specialist options specific to your needs, such as medical travel insurance if you have any pre-existing conditions. This will also cover trip cancellations and lost or stolen items just in case. This is especially crucial during the Winter months when the chances of travel disruptions and health issues can be higher.
- Use Germany’s extensive public transport network to get around cities efficiently and affordably. Check for tourist travel cards that offer unlimited travel for a set number of days too.
- Learn a few basic German phrases, such as “Danke” (Thank you) and “Entschuldigung” (Excuse me). This will make walking through busy markets more pleasant and respectful when navigating the crowds.
Dresden’s Historical Festivities & the Striezelmarkt
Dresden celebrates Christmas with a deep respect for its rich history, showcased at the Striezelmarkt, one of Germany’s oldest Christmas markets. Starting in 1434, this market is a centrepiece of the city’s festive activities, held in the historical Altmarkt Square, and welcomes 2.5 million people each year. There’s traditional crafts and food, including Stollen, with the market renowned for its hand-painted wooden crafts and the world’s largest Erzgebirge step pyramid.
Surrounding the Striezelmarkt, other smaller markets can be found, each with its own unique offerings and charming displays. The Winterlights of Dresden found on the Prager Straße has a 15 metre high Christmas tree and two rustic carousels, along with plenty of stalls to enjoy.
Whilst in Dresden, a good idea is to check out their main tourism website. As travel insurance provider Staysure recommends, you can book accommodation, group tours and museum tickets before you head off on your city break, saving you time when you arrive. This means you can spend more time enjoying the festive cheer in Dresden’s Christmas markets.
Cologne’s Festivities & The Backdrop of Its Cathedral
Cologne’s Christmas markets are famously set against the dramatic backdrop of its towering Gothic Cathedral, a UNESCO World Heritage site that adds a layer of grandeur to the festive season. The largest and most visited of these is the market at the Cologne Cathedral, where rows of red-roofed stalls are twinkling with lights. You can browse through many artisan gifts, from hand-blown glass ornaments to intricately carved wooden toys, all while enjoying the more than 100 free events on the Christmas stage.
Just a short walk away, the Market of Angels transforms Neumarkt into a stunning scene of white wooden stalls and fairy lights, with charmingly dressed angels wandering amongst the crowds. The setting is whimsical, perfect for families and couples alike. Each stall and corner of the market welcomes you to something new to enjoy, from hot mulled wine served to the sweet scent of waffles and crepes. Cologne’s Christmas markets not only highlight the city’s historic architecture but also the joyous spirit of the season, making it a must-visit destination.
Enjoy Germany’s Christmas Spirit
As these festive highlights from Berlin, Munich, Dresden, and Cologne show, Germany has some of the most enchanting Christmas markets in the world. A city break during the festive season to any of these locations brings its own unique flavour to the holiday season.
Whether you’re seeking the historical charm of handcrafted gifts, festive food and drink, or spectacular displays of lights and traditional wooden stalls, heading to Germany is sure to provide you with an unforgettable Christmas experience. Be sure to pack your warmest clothes and enjoy!
