Holiday enthusiasts should not miss Germany’s Christmas markets; an extravagant Avalon Christmas Market Cruise is the best way to see them. These vibrant markets along the Danube, Main, and Rhine rivers mix classic appeal with amazing landscape. Avalon cruises offer a perfect approach to enjoy the beauty of the German Christmas markets with guided tours, first-rate cuisine, and transformative experiences. From historic markets to riverfront celebrations, this guide ranks the top five Christmas markets you can visit using key information such dates, times, and must-see sites. Whether your hunt is for unique gifts, mouthwatering cuisine, or celebratory entertainment, these markets will make your holiday season one to remember. See southern traditions at the New Orleans Christmas Market.
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Toggle1. Cologne Cathedral Christmas Market
Nestled below the well-known Cologne Cathedral, the Cologne Christmas Market is among Germany’s most beloved festive attractions. Renowned for its enchanting ambiance and beautifully lit wooden booths, this market attracts millions of people every year. The centre of the market is the amazing Christmas tree with its brilliant lights and decorations. While browsing handcrafted presents and decorations, visitors may savor classic German cuisine including bratwurst, roasted chestnuts, and Glühwein. This market combines history with modern appeal with live events on the central stage, a devoted children’s area, and its Rhine vicinity. The Cologne Cathedral Christmas Market is an unforgettable event whether your search is for unusual holiday presents or just to enjoy the festive attitude.
- Address: Roncalliplatz, 50667 Cologne, Germany
- Dates: November 23, 2025 – December 23, 2025
- Opening Times: Mon-Fri: 11:00 AM – 9:00 PM; Sat-Sun: 10:00 AM – 10:00 PM
- Entrance Fee: Free entry
- Where to Buy Tickets: No tickets required. Guided tours available via Cologne Tourism.
Nearest T Stations:
- Cologne Hauptbahnhof
- Heumarkt
Events:
- Live Choir Performances: Experience angelic voices daily at the main stage.
- Ice Skating Rink: A popular winter activity for families.
- Light Show: Nightly illuminations around the cathedral.
- Children’s Workshop: Interactive crafts and baking for kids.
- St. Nicholas Parade: A festive procession through the market.
Famous Shops or Stalls:
- Glühwein Stands: Taste authentic mulled wine in collectible mugs.
- Käthe Wohlfahrt: Iconic Christmas decorations and gifts.
- Handmade Crafts Pavilion: Beautiful handmade candles and ornaments.
Special Spots:
- Cologne Cathedral Viewpoint: Stunning views from the cathedral.
- Nativity Scene Display: A life-sized setup with local elements.
- Riverside Walk: Perfect for a scenic stroll along the Rhine.
- Market Carousel: A nostalgic ride for kids and adults.
- Photo Booth: Capture your memories in festive frames.
Parking:
- Address: Parkhaus am Dom, Kurt-Hackenberg-Platz 2, 50667 Cologne
- Fee: €3 per hour
Nearby Hotels:
- Hyatt Regency Cologne
- Excelsior Hotel Ernst
- Maritim Hotel Cologne
Nearby Restaurants:
- Gilden im Zims (Traditional German fare)
- Früh am Dom (Cologne’s famous beer hall)
- Café Reichard (Cakes and coffee with cathedral views)
2. Nuremberg Christkindlesmarkt
Deeply ingrained in history going back to the 16th century, the Nuremberg Christkindlesmarkt is among the oldest and most classic Christmas markets in Germany. Renowned for its genuine Bavarian appeal, it is located on Hauptmarkt square. The market starts with the Christkind, a beloved local custom delivering their introductory remarks. With more than 180 wooden booths, guests may peruse a range of handcrafted items like golden angels ornaments and the well-known Nuremberg Prune Men sculptures. There is a sensory delight as the air smells wonderfully from toasted almonds and gingerbread. It is a family-friendly place with special facilities for kids featuring a carousel and craft classes.
- Address: Hauptmarkt, 90403 Nuremberg, Germany
- Dates: December 1, 2025 – December 24, 2025
- Opening Times: Daily: 10:00 AM – 9:00 PM
- Entrance Fee: Free
- Where to Buy Tickets: No tickets required. Special guided tours available on Nuremberg Tourism.
Nearest T Stations:
- Lorenzkirche
- Hauptbahnhof
Events:
- Christkind’s Opening Speech: A beloved tradition to inaugurate the market.
- Children’s Christmas Market: Interactive rides and entertainment for kids.
- Holiday Concerts: Live performances every evening.
- Mulled Wine Tasting: Sample a variety of flavors at designated stalls.
- Crafting Workshops: Learn how to make traditional decorations.
Famous Shops or Stalls:
- Lebkuchen Schmidt: Renowned for their gingerbread cookies.
- Rauschgoldengel Stalls: Handmade golden angel ornaments.
- Prune Men Figurines: Quirky, handcrafted dolls.
Special Spots:
- Schöner Brunnen Fountain: A stunning landmark near the market.
- Old Town Streets: Decorated with festive lights and garlands.
- Children’s Carousel: A vintage ride loved by families.
- Nuremberg Castle: Perfect for a panoramic view of the market.
- Photo Walls: Decorated backdrops for holiday photos.
Parking:
- Address: Tiefgarage Hauptmarkt, Augustinerstraße 90403, Nuremberg
- Fee: €2.50 per hour
Nearby Hotels:
- Hotel Victoria Nuremberg
- Sheraton Carlton Hotel Nuremberg
- Le Méridien Grand Hotel
Nearby Restaurants:
- Bratwursthäusle (Traditional sausages)
- Zum Gulden Stern (Oldest sausage restaurant in town)
- Café Beer (Local baked specialties)
3. Rothenburg ob der Tauber Reiterlesmarkt
The Reiterlesmarkt, set in the mediaeval village of Rothenburg ob der Tauber, is a Christmas paradise like out of a fairy tale. Nestled amid cobblestone lanes and half-timbered homes, this market is as charming as it is exuberant. The market gets its name from the legendary character from Franconian mythology known as “Reiterle,” who stands for the entrance of the Christmas season. Visitors find great delight in the medieval-themed decorations, the warm glow of lanterns, and the cheerful attitude. The market features various booths offering mulled wine, regional cuisine like Schneeball pastries, and traditional crafts. Its historical value and modest surroundings make this getaway an amazing one.
- Address: Marktplatz, 91541 Rothenburg ob der Tauber, Germany
- Dates: November 29, 2025 – December 23, 2025
- Opening Times: Mon-Fri: 11:00 AM – 7:00 PM; Sat-Sun: 11:00 AM – 8:00 PM
- Entrance Fee: Free entry
- Where to Buy Tickets: No tickets required. Guided tours available at Rothenburg Tourism.
Nearest T Stations:
- Rothenburg ob der Tauber Bahnhof
- Steinach Bahnhof
Events:
- Reiterle Procession: A historical parade celebrating Rothenburg’s medieval roots.
- Live Music Performances: Traditional Christmas songs performed daily.
- Storytelling for Children: Fairy tales and Christmas legends narrated in cozy settings.
- Christmas Baking Classes: Learn to bake traditional German cookies.
- Torchlight Tours: Evening guided tours of Rothenburg’s old town.
Famous Shops or Stalls:
- Käthe Wohlfahrt Christmas Village: A world-famous shop for ornaments.
- Glühwein Booths: Unique mulled wine flavors to try.
- Schneeball Pastries: A Rothenburg specialty dessert.
Special Spots:
- Town Hall Tower: Climb for a panoramic market view.
- Plönlein Corner: A picturesque spot for photos.
- Christmas Museum: Dive into the history of German Christmas traditions.
- Medieval Walls: Walk along the illuminated city walls.
- Market Stage: Enjoy live performances and carolers.
Parking:
- Address: P1 Parking Area, Nördlinger Str. 91541, Rothenburg ob der Tauber
- Fee: €2 per hour
Nearby Hotels:
- Hotel Reichsküchenmeister
- Hotel Eisenhut
- Hotel BurgGartenpalais
Nearby Restaurants:
- Zur Holl (Historic wine and beer tavern)
- Gasthof Goldener Greifen (Traditional German dishes)
- Café Uhl (Delicious cakes and hot drinks)
4. Frankfurt Christmas Market
The Frankfurt Christmas Market is one of Germany’s largest and most vibrant holiday markets. Located in the historic Römerberg square, it is renowned for its stunning decorations, including a giant Christmas tree and traditional half-timbered houses draped in lights. The market is famous for its blend of old-world charm and modern festivities. The lively environment, browsing booths with handcrafted goods, sampling regional cuisine such Bethmännchen (marzipan cookies), and festive spirit is complemented daily by events including choir performances and organ concerts. The Frankfurt Christmas Market is a holiday must-see whether you live here or are a visitor.
- Address: Römerberg, 60311 Frankfurt am Main, Germany
- Dates: November 25, 2025 – December 22, 2025
- Opening Times: Mon-Fri: 10:00 AM – 9:00 PM; Sat-Sun: 10:00 AM – 10:00 PM
- Entrance Fee: Free entry
- Where to Buy Tickets: No tickets required. Event details available at Frankfurt Tourism.
Nearest T Stations:
- Hauptwache
- Konstablerwache
Events:
- Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony: A must-see event on opening night.
- Organ Concerts: Held in St. Bartholomew’s Cathedral.
- Carriage Rides: Enjoy scenic rides through the festive city center.
- Advent Calendar Unveiling: Daily surprises and activities for kids.
- Fireworks Display: A stunning finale on closing night.
Famous Shops or Stalls:
- Cuckoo Clock Vendors: Handcrafted timepieces.
- Apple Wine Booths: Try Frankfurt’s famous Apfelwein.
- Handmade Leather Goods: Unique wallets and bags crafted locally.
Special Spots:
- Römer Square: Central hub of market activities.
- Iron Bridge: Perfect for scenic holiday photos.
- St. Paul’s Church: Historical landmark hosting Christmas exhibits.
- Palmengarten Illuminations: A magical garden of lights.
- Zeil Shopping Street: Festively decorated for the holidays.
Parking:
- Address: Parkhaus Römer, Domstraße 1, 60311 Frankfurt
- Fee: €3 per hour
Nearby Hotels:
- Steigenberger Frankfurter Hof
- NH Collection Frankfurt City
- Hilton Frankfurt City Centre
Nearby Restaurants:
- Apfelwein Klaus (Famous for apple wine and German dishes)
- Margarete (Modern European cuisine)
- Paulaner am Dom (Bavarian specialties)
5. Dresden Striezelmarkt
Rich tradition extending back to 1434, Germany’s oldest Christmas market is the Dresden Striezelmarkt. Nestled on Altmarkt square, it draws its name from the regional speciality stollen bread called ‘Striezel’. This market is a sensory feast with everything from handcrafted wooden products and decorations to great regional cuisine. The tall Christmas pyramid smack in the midst of the market is amazing, as is the nightly shows and illumination processions. Rich in history, happy environment, and a spectrum of celebrations, the Dresden Striezelmarkt is a festival to remember.
- Address: Altmarkt, 01067 Dresden, Germany
- Dates: November 27, 2025 – December 24, 2025
- Opening Times: Mon-Sun: 10:00 AM – 9:00 PM
- Entrance Fee: Free entry
- Where to Buy Tickets: No tickets required.
Nearest T Stations:
- Postplatz
- Altmarkt
Events:
- Stollen Festival: Featuring a giant Christmas stollen cake.
- Lantern Procession: A magical evening parade.
- Christmas Pyramid Lighting: A key attraction at the market’s center.
- Santa Claus Visits: Daily appearances and photo opportunities.
- Nativity Scene Reenactments: Live performances showcasing the Christmas story.
Famous Shops or Stalls:
- Stollen Bakers’ Pavilion: Authentic Dresden stollen to savor.
- Wooden Crafts Stalls: Famous Erzgebirge nutcrackers and pyramids.
- Glassblowers Booths: Intricate, handmade ornaments.
Special Spots:
- Altmarkt Square: The heart of the market.
- Frauenkirche: A beautifully restored baroque church nearby.
- Zwinger Palace Gardens: Lit up for the holidays.
- Procession of Princes: A massive porcelain mural.
- Semperoper Opera House: Festively illuminated at night.
Parking:
- Address: Altmarkt-Galerie Parking, Webergasse 1, 01067 Dresden
- Fee: €1.50 per hour
Nearby Hotels:
- Hotel Taschenbergpalais Kempinski
- NH Collection Dresden Altmarkt
- Hyperion Hotel Dresden
Nearby Restaurants:
- Sophienkeller (Classic Saxon cuisine)
- Restaurant Moritz (Elegant dining experience)
- Aha Café (Vegetarian and organic options)