Christmas Markets of Germany

What could be more Christmassy than a festive market in Germany? Clasping a mug of gluhwein to keep yourself warm against the winter chill as you browse the stalls packed with traditional toys, gifts and crafts.

Cologne

Cologne is famous for being a beautiful city, but during the festive period it is completely transformed into a winter wonderland. The Fairytale Christmas Market (or Märchenweihnachtsmarkt in German!) is held each year in the aptly-named Rudolfplatz. With a huge range of stalls offering a massive variety of gifts, you’ll be spoiled for choice. Everything from classic wooden toys to handmade winter clothing and much, much more. There is also entertainment available from magicians, jugglers and traditional glassblowers for you to see as you shop. There are other markets in Cologne too, the Market of Angels at Neumarkt has chalet-style stalls and the Harbour Christmas Market sits alongside the city’s chocolate factory.

Düsseldorf

Just a short drive from Cologne, Düsseldorf has a truly international Christmas market, with different themed stalls from all over the world throughout the city. The stalls are lovingly decorated and stock gifts, souvenirs, arts and crafts from all corners of the globe for a unique market experience.

Bremen

Bremen’s Christmas market is one of the most attractive in Europe, with around 170 stalls to choose from and a huge walk-through advent calendar on display. The city’s river banks become a mini Christmas village with the aroma of freshly baked bread and smoked fish in the air for an unforgettable Christmas shopping experience.

Koblenz

There is also a festive market at Koblenz, which attracts tourists from all over the world each year. Koblenz is one of Germany’s oldest cities and becomes a romantic Christmas wonderland for the festive period, ideal for couples and families wanting to get swept up in the atmosphere of the season.

Aachen

The Christmas market in Aachen centres around the city’s cathedral, and transforms the area into a funfair of light and colour. Traditional Aachen baked goods such as Domino Stones or Spekulatius (types of ginger or marzipan bread) come fresh from the oven straight to you.