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It is one of the most wonderful times of the year. During the Advent season, Germany is transformed into a winter wonderland, filled with twinkling lights, festive decorations and the enticing scent of roasted almonds, spicy biscuits, mulled wine and, of course, love. The Christmas markets are a beloved tradition, attracting visitors from all over the world. This guide introduces you to Germany’s Christmas markets, highlights some of the most beautiful in Munich, and presents the delicacies that you should definitely try and that make this festive season so special.
Christmas markets in Germany date back to the Late Middle Ages and are held in town squares across the country during Advent. These markets are characterized by their charming wooden stalls selling handcrafted gifts, ornaments, and seasonal treats. Each market has its own unique atmosphere, often featuring live music, festive performances, and a warm sense of community. From the end of November until Christmas Day, visitors can enjoy a variety of culinary delights every day while browsing for unique gifts and getting into the Christmas spirit.
At the traditional Christmas markets in Munich, there are usually wooden huts selling homemade arts and crafts, Christmas tree decorations, and delicious, hearty food.
Visitors can expect to find a wide range of traditional German foods, such as mulled wine (Glühwein), grilled sausages (Bratwurst), and crispy fried onions.
The markets are usually decorated with festive lights, Christmas trees, and traditional Christmas decorations.
You will have the opportunity to learn traditional Bavarian and German Advent and Christmas carols.
Location: Marienplatz
Dates: November 25th to December 24th, 2024
Highlights: The heart of Munich’s Christmas festivities is the Marienplatz Christmas market, set against the backdrop of the stunning Neues Rathaus (New Town Hall). With over 150 stalls, visitors can find traditional handicrafts, decorations, live music from the town hall balcony and delicious food at this Magical Christmas market. The centerpiece is a magnificent Christmas tree adorned with thousands of lights.
Location: Wittelsbacherplatz
Dates: November 25th to December 23rd, 2024
Highlights: Just a short walk away from Munich’s famous Odeonsplatz, at this Medieval Market artisans in period costumes showcase their crafts. Enjoy traditional music and entertainment while browsing unique handmade goods.
Location: Theresienwiese
Dates: November 26nd to December 31st, 2024
Highlights: This alternative market combines art, culture, and sustainability. Visitors can enjoy organic food stalls, handmade crafts, and live performances in a vibrant atmosphere.
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Location: Munich Residenz (City Palace)
Dates: November 18 – December 22, 2024
Highlights: Nestled within the largest courtyard of Munich’s city palace, this charming market features a variety of stalls offering handmade crafts and delicious seasonal treats. Visitors can enjoy puppet shows and engage in handicraft workshops while soaking in the festive atmosphere surrounded by historic architecture.
Location: Haidhausen District, Weißenburger Platz
Dates: November 26 – December 24, 2024
Highlights: This cozy market is known for its friendly atmosphere and local charm. Set in a picturesque square, the Haidhausen Christmas market has been taking place for forty years – according to some, it is the most beautiful Christmas market in Munich. There is live Christmas music and a children’s programme here almost every day. It’s a great place to experience a more intimate holiday setting away from the larger crowds.
Location: Stephansplatz
Dates: November 25 – December 23, 2024
Highlights: This unique market in the Glockenbachviertel is Munich’s LGBTQ+ Christmas market. It offers a vibrant atmosphere with festive food, glühwein, and special performances. Open from late November to December 23rd, Pink Christmas features white pagoda tents, a show stage with DJs and drag performances, and a prosecco bar. It’s known for its inclusive environment, welcoming visitors from all backgrounds.
Location: Karlsplatz-Stachus
Dates: Coming soon
Highlights: This market combines Christmas cheer with ice skating. Visitors can glide on the ice rink surrounded by twinkling lights and festive stalls.
Location: Isartor
Dates: November 25 – January 06, 2025
Highlights: Located near the historic Isartor, this market specializes in the traditional German holiday drink Feuerzangenbowle. Visitors can enjoy this flaming rum punch while taking in the medieval atmosphere.
Location: Festival area in front of the Cosimabad (Cosimastraße/corner of Englschalkingerstraße)
Dates: November 14th 2024 to January 6th, 2025
Highlights: Set in a magical forest atmosphere, this market is known for its extensive selection of Glühwein varieties.
A bohemian twist on the traditional Christmas market, featuring artisan vendors, art tent, a sculpture trail, installations and performances.
A historic food market that gets a festive makeover during the holiday season, offering special treats and decorations.
Surrounded by the picturesque backdrop of the historic Chinese Tower, built in the style of a pagoda, the market offers a festive atmosphere with numerous small stalls offering local handicrafts and culinary delicacies.
🎄Glühwein: A hot wine flavored with spices, a must-try at Munich Christmas markets.
🎄Feuerzangenbowle: A strong, lit-on-fire drink made with glühwein, rum, and sugar.
🎄Eierpunsch: A boozy egg-based drink similar to eggnog.
🎄Bratwurst: A traditional German sausage, often served with sauerkraut and potatoes.
🎄Lebkuchen: A traditional German gingerbread, often decorated with festive icing and candies.
🎄Gebrannte Mandeln: They consist of almonds that are caramelized with sugar and water, creating a crunchy, sweet coating.
🎄Stollen: A traditional German fruitcake, often served with butter or marzipan.
🎄Kartoffelpuffer: Crispy potato pancakes often served with applesauce
🎁Ornaments: Hand-painted baubles and intricately carved wood pieces make for unique gifts.
🎁Paper lantern Christmas stars: A popular decorative item, often handmade by local artisans.
🎁Handmade candles and candle holders: A great gift option, often featuring traditional German designs.
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🎀Sheepskin products: Slippers, coats, and other items made from sheepskin make for a unique and cozy gift.
🎀Nutcrackers: A traditional German Christmas decoration, often handmade by local artisans.
🎀Christmas tree decorations: Handmade ornaments and decorations make for a unique and festive gift.
Munich’s Christmas markets are characterised by their Bavarian charm and unique offerings. The Pink Christmas Market, for example, offers a more modern and inclusive take on the traditional Christmas market, with LGBTQ+-friendly entertainment and a vibrant atmosphere . The Feuerzangenbowle market at Isartor is a spectacular sight, with flaming sugar cones sinking into mulled wine to create a warm and aromatic drink that is perfect for cold winter nights. The Winterzauber at Viktualienmarkt combines the city’s culinary prowess with Christmas cheer, offering gourmet versions of classic Christmas market fare. From traditional to modern, Munich’s Christmas markets offer something for everyone and make the city a must-see destination during the Christmas season. Whether you’re looking for unique gifts, trying seasonal delicacies or simply soaking up the festive atmosphere, Munich’s Christmas markets promise an unforgettable winter experience.
