16 November 2014
| Last updated on 30 November 2015
German Christmas Markets
If you happen to find yourself in Germany over the festive season, make sure you add one of the country's famous Christmas markets to your diary...
The Christmas markets in Europe are infamous - you'll find gingerbread houses, mulled wine, flavour coated nuts, different types of fudge and great other tidbits. If you're visiting remember to bundle up as the markets are all outdoors and the weather is usually frosty - there is only so much gluhwein to warm you up!! The loos are also very cold as they are prefabs that are located outside - just be prepared.
The Christmas Markets in Germany really stand out as the most popular in the world so if you're on your way to Bavaria this December visit these great Christmas markets - if you don't you're missing out!!
Munich Christmas Market
The Munich Christmas Market in Marienplatz is known as the original market dating back to "Nicholaus Markets". The first market was held in 1642 and according to town records took place near the Beautiful Tower in Kaufingerstrasse . It is the original market and one of the more impressive ones.
Marienplatz
Cologne Christmas Market
Cologne has a few Christmas markets dotted around the city, however one of the most impressive ones is the market at the Cologne Cathedral. The imposing cathedral acts as an impressive backdrop. It is also the home to the largest Christmas tree in Rhineland.
Cologne Cathedral
Gendarmenmarkt Christmas Market Berlin
Berlin is magical and anyone who wants to experience the magic of Christmashas to visit one of the wondorous Christmas Markets in the City. Gendarmenmarkt is one of the most gorgeous squares in the city and forms part of the backdrop for the market. Not only will you see the regular artisans and sample German delicacies, you will also experience dance groups, acrobats, jugglers, jazz, choir and so much more.
Gendarmenmarkt Square
Frankfurt Christmas Market
Frankfurt has one of the oldest Christmas markets dating back a whopping 600 years and is the inspiration for other Christmas markets in the UK like Edinburgh, London and the like. The market is located just 15minutes from the airport so you can go and visit if you have a longer stopover - it's really worth it.
Römerberg square, Paulsplatz and Mainkai qua
Heidelberg Christmas Market
The Christmas markets in Heidelberg can only be described as charming, and while they may have similar elements, each is unique in its own way. The 'olde world' wooden huts will transport you to a different era of Yuletide celebration.
Kornmarkt, Marktplatz, Universitätsplatz, Anatomiegarten and the Bismarckplatz.
Mainz Christmas Market
Mainz is just a stone's thow away from Frankfurt and is a small peaceful town with cobbled streets. Mainz is known for the many festivals that it hosts throughout the year and come Christmas time the city put the same effort into their Christmas markets - so if you're in Frankfurt take the train 20 minutes out of the city and see the beautiful Mainz Christmas Market.
Market Square Mainz
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Dusseldorf Christmas Market
The Dusseldorf Christmas market has something for everyone. There is a large ice skating rink in the centre of the market that is a joy to children and adults alike. Try a cheese sandwich made from a cheese round that is melted in front of a fire and have a drink at the lively bar!!
Gustaf-Gründgens-Platz
Rüdesheim Christmas Market
This Christmas market, set in the town's chocolate box old quarter, brings a romantic feel to the festive season. It is also distinct in the fact that it has many different food stalls for you to sample, ranging from traditional German cuisine, to Finnish delicacies and a taste of the far east in the Mongolian Marqee.
Rüdesheim am Rhein
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Hamburg Christmas Market
Hamburg has many wonderful markets that just pop up over the Cristmas season. The prettiest is probably just outside Hamburg's townhall. It is hosted by Roncalli's Circuis - this means that the guests are seved by clowns and circuir performers. It really is a load of fun.
Most start in November and end around the 24th December
Various locations click here>>
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Stuttgart attracts a large number of visitors because of its reputation for being the Christmas city. The entire city sparkles under the twinkly Christmas lights and the main attraction is the Stuttgart Christmas Market, which is set in the city centre with the Old Palace acting as the backdrop.
Old Palace
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