German christmas markets

Munich boasts over 10 Christmas markets, including the historic Marienplatz market, which is considered the original among Munich's Christmas markets. Set against the romantic neo-Gothic town hall, it exudes old Bavarian charm and impresses with a 25-meter high Christmas tree decorated with 300 candles and glittering angel hair. Only a few steps away is Germany's largest Nativity scene market. Here you can find all you need for an authentic Nativity scene – from stable lantern to the chaff for the ox and donkey to the gifts of the Magi.

Dresden offers eleven distinct Christmas markets, each with its unique charm. Dating back to 1434, Dresden's Striezelmarkt is one of the oldest Christmas markets. and is renowned for its regional treasures, including Ore Mountain woodcrafts, Lusatian blue-printed fabrics, and Moravian stars, all of which are particularly popular. A piece of original Dresdner Christstollen -a special fruit loaf - is of course another must.

One of the most iconic and enchanting highlights of the Christmas markets in Germany is the Christkindlmarkt in Nuremberg, dating back to the 16th century, making it one of the oldest and most historically rich Christmas markets in the world. In the wooden stalls of the "little town made of wood and cloth" you will find traditional, often handmade Christmas decorations and sweet treats such as the famous Nuremberg gingerbread.

Nestled in the picturesque setting of the old town, the Christmas market is considered one of the most charming Christmas markets in Germany. In the Käthe Wohlfahrt Christmas village, centrally located in the old town, you will find appealing Christmas decorations. And the adjoining German Christmas Museum presents beautiful historical Christmas decorations from various German regions.

The Harbor Christmas Market in Lindau on Lake Constance offers a very special Christmas market experience with its romantic backdrop. There are lovingly decorated wooden stalls along the lakeside promenade, it smells of mulled wine and cookies and a magical fairytale forest of mighty fir trees exudes a fresh pine scent. Another highlight is the Christmas ship: the “Austria”, enchantingly decorated for the festive season, takes its guests from the Harbor Christmas Market to the Christmas markets in Bregenz, Austria. On the return journey to Lindau, there is a fantastic view of the illuminated backdrop of the harbor.