5 Best Germany Christmas Markets You Need to Visit in 2025

Germany is famous for its Christmas markets, which are filled with festive lights, delicious food, and handmade gifts. If you're planning a trip in 2025, these are the 5 best Christmas markets to visit. Here’s what you need to know, including the dates to help you plan your visit.

1. Cologne Christmas Market

Dates: November 25 - December 23, 2025

The Cologne Christmas Market is one of the biggest and most popular in Germany. It takes place in front of the Cologne Cathedral, making it an amazing backdrop for holiday photos. The market has over 150 stalls where you can find all sorts of Christmas gifts, decorations, and local treats like gingerbread and sausages. There’s also live music to add to the fun.

Why Visit?

Cologne is perfect if you want a big, festive market in a stunning location.

2. Dresden Christmas Market

Dates: November 26 – December 24, 2025

The Dresden Christmas Market, known as the Striezelmarkt, takes place on the historic Altmarkt square. It’s one of Germany’s oldest Christmas markets, with over 200 wooden stalls offering traditional crafts, local foods, and handmade decorations. Every evening, the market glows with festive lights, and the scent of Stollen, roasted almonds, and mulled wine fills the air. Live music and performances make the market feel even more magical.

Why Visit?

Dresden is perfect for anyone wanting a historic, traditional German Christmas experience. The market’s centuries-old charm, combined with local treats like Stollen and roasted chestnuts, cozy wooden stalls, and festive performances, creates an unforgettable holiday atmosphere. It’s especially great for lovers of Christmas crafts and family-friendly activities.

3. Hamburg Christmas Market

Dates: November 25 - December 30, 2025

The Hamburg Christmas Market happens in front of the city’s Town Hall. It's known for its historical look, with many of the stalls selling high-quality handmade crafts. One of the coolest parts is the flying Santa, who appears above the market every day! This market also runs later into December, so it’s great if you're visiting later in the holiday season.

Why Visit?

Hamburg is ideal for families and anyone looking for a traditional, magical Christmas market experience.

4. Bremen Christmas Market 2024

Dates: November 27 - December 23, 2025

The Bremen Christmas Market is located in the heart of Bremen’s old town, a UNESCO World Heritage site. With over 170 stalls, this market offers everything from festive foods to handcrafted gifts. Nearby, you’ll also find the Schlachte Magic market along the river, which has a nautical Christmas theme and delicious seafood.

Why Visit?

Bremen is perfect for those who want both a traditional Christmas market and something a bit different by the river.

5. Frankfurt Christmas Market

Dates: November 25 - December 22, 2025

The Frankfurt Christmas Market is one of the oldest and largest markets in Germany. It’s set in Römerberg square, with a massive Christmas tree lighting up the area. There are hundreds of stalls selling Christmas decorations, gifts, and tasty treats like the famous Frankfurter Bethmännchen (a marzipan pastry). The market’s central location makes it easy to get to and explore.

Why Visit?Frankfurt is perfect for travelers who want a large, bustling Christmas market with lots of shopping options and festive fun.

Plan Your 2025 Christmas Market Trip!

Germany’s Christmas markets are some of the best in the world, offering a magical holiday experience. Whether you prefer a big, lively market or a traditional one with local flavor, these 5 markets are the top choices for 2025. Start planning now to make sure you don’t miss out on the festive fun!

With love,

Melis Andreea

Website: melisandreea.com

Instagram: @melis.andreea