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Christmas Markets
Germany is the home of Christmas markets. With their festive atmosphere, mouthwatering aromas and good-natured hustle and bustle, it’s no wonder that other countries mimic the style. Strolling through a market with its beautifully decorated wooden stalls and filled with the intoxicating smells of mulled wine, roasted almonds and grilled specialities, you would be forgiven for thinking you were in a fantasy world of magic and wonder. The glowing lights, the unique, delectable food and the lively brass bands will delight all your senses, creating an experience you will never forget.
Whatever German city you choose to visit, chances are there will be a Christmas market just waiting to be explored. Recommended markets include large historical cities such as Bremen and Dresden, with their old quarters being transformed into a winter wonderland full of choirs. Or if you prefer something on a smaller scale try Augsburg, with its magnificent backdrop of the 16th century city hall and its famous Engelesspiel, when angels appear above the Christmas market against the Town Hall façade.
Perhaps you would prefer Lübeck, where its Christmas markets spread through the historic Old Town and the Märchenwald beside St Mary’s Church brings well-known fairy tales to life in twenty lovingly designed little houses. Whatever you choose you can be sure they will meet your Christmas needs. For a more fairy tale like setting Rothenburg ob der Tauber and Bernkastel-Kues capture the magic of Christmas within their enchanting market stalls. And for the ultimate winter getaway, cross the border to Salzburg, which can be enjoyed alongside Munich’s nearby sprawling Christmas markets.
To visit Nuremberg’s famous Christkindlesmarkt is to step back in history. After all, it is one of the oldest and most famous Christmas markets in Germany, with the ancient Old Town being traditionally decorated in Christmas regalia and filled with the tempting aromas of mulled wine and sweet roasted almonds.
Most German Christmas Markets take pride in their stalls. Consequently, they display the most wonderful array of food, drinks and decorations you can imagine. From Glühwein mulled wine, fat, juicy German sausages, traditional handicrafts and Christmas decorations. It really is a feast for the eyes as well as the taste buds.
Winter breaks have never been so much fun! And there is something for everyone. From tailor-made group holidays to individual pre-Christmas shopping breaks in a city or town which will suit your winter dream. We will help plan suitable accommodation, tours and activities to suit all your festive needs.
The Christmas Markets generally begin in late November, with many running until just before or on Christmas Eve and some continuing beyond Christmas. Dates vary from market to market, so it is always worth planning early, particularly for the most popular destinations. After all, Christmas is a time for giving and receiving.
