World Of Wanderlust

The festive season is fast approaching! Get ready for the best time of the year with twinkling fairy lights and the joyful sound of bells ringing throughout the town. One of the highlights of Christmas is definitely the Christmas markets. If you’re searching for vibrant and beautiful Christmas markets, Germany is the place to be. The country is home to some of the oldest Christmas markets in the world. Here are the best Christmas markets in Germany you should visit in 2023.

**Top German Christmas Markets to Visit**

**Striezelmarkt, Dresden**
If you’re wondering which Christmas market to visit, Striezelmarkt in Dresden is a must-see. This is the oldest Christmas market in Germany, dating back to 1434. You’ve got to experience this historic market! Striezelmarkt is famous for its sweet treats and Christmas bread. Be sure to try a Stollen, a delicious bread filled with candied fruit and covered in icing sugar. While enjoying your Stollen, you can explore around 170 stalls and admire the enormous Christmas tree. The market also features lovely wooden huts, a Ferris wheel, and the largest Nutcracker in Germany. With its authentic charm and attractions, make sure Striezelmarkt is on your must-visit list!

**Cologne Cathedral Christmas Market**
Known for its unique atmosphere and beautiful setting, the Cologne Cathedral Christmas Market is undoubtedly one of the best in Germany. Held in the town square near the picturesque Rhine River, this market offers a romantic backdrop of the gothic Cologne Cathedral, bathed in warm Christmas lights at night. You’ll find a giant Christmas tree, wooden pavilions, 150 stalls, and lively musical performances. Don’t miss the chance to try organic potato pancakes or cathedral-shaped waffles for a cozy treat.

**Essen International Christmas Market**
Essen’s Christmas market is known for its diverse selection of souvenirs, ornaments, and foods from various cultures, truly living up to its name, “Essen International Christmas Market.” With about 170 stalls, colorful lights, chandeliers, and strings of magical Christmas lights overhead, this market is a feast for the senses. You can enjoy a variety of dishes, from German sausages to Turkish falafel. It’s also perfect for families, offering plenty of attractions for kids.

**Stuttgart Weihnachtsmarkt, Stuttgart**
Celebrate Christmas in the beautiful city of Stuttgart, where the Stuttgart Weihnachtsmarkt is held in the city center, surrounded by enchanting houses and medieval buildings. Running for over 300 years, this market brings a festive spirit to the city with around 280 stalls selling all sorts of goodies, from souvenirs to delicious sausages. Don’t miss the stunning Christmas towers, Ferris wheels, and the giant Advent calendar, a landmark in the city square.

**Charlottenburg Palace Christmas Market, Berlin**
Berlin is known for its array of charming Christmas markets, and Charlottenburg Palace Christmas Market is one of the most magical. Set against the elegant backdrop of Charlottenburg Palace, illuminated with Christmas lights as night falls, this market is a sight to behold. You’ll find impressive stalls, delicious treats, and plenty of activities for kids, such as the Royal Christmas Market and Wanderland Winter Forest. Adults can enjoy a stroll through the palace gardens or savor some mulled wine.

**Braunschweig Christmas Market, Braunschweig**
Experience Christmas in the charming city of Braunschweig, situated between Berlin and Hanover. The market, located on the square of St. Blasii Cathedral, offers a beautiful scene of medieval-style buildings. Operating since 1505, the Braunschweig Christmas Market blends old traditions with new attractions, such as giant ice sculptures and the Kohlmarkt skating rink.

**Münchner Christkindlmarkt, Munich**
The Münchner Christkindlmarkt in Munich is unique and offers a taste of Bavarian culture and history. Located in Marienplatz, in front of the magnificent Munich Neues Rathaus cathedral, this market showcases centuries-old baroque buildings. You’ll see a giant Christmas tree decorated with over 2,500 lights and can enjoy a ride on a charming Christmas tram.

**Reiterlesmarkt, Rothenburg ob der Tauber**
This medieval town is perfect for a festive getaway. The Reiterlesmarkt in Rothenburg ob der Tauber is a pre-Christmas market filled with colorful stalls and enchanting performances. The highlight is the Rotheburger Reiterles, a story about a horseman who brings joy to everyone during Christmas.

**Rüdesheim Christmas Market of All Nations, Rüdesheim**
Rüdesheim Christmas Market is one of the most diverse in Germany, featuring items from 12 different countries in its 120 stalls. The market offers a nostalgic atmosphere of the Rhein Valley and scenic walks along lit-up old streets. You can even enjoy a picturesque cable car ride to the market.

**Leipzig Christmas Market, Leipzig**
Located in the heart of Leipzig, this Christmas market features glowing lights, a giant Ferris wheel, and an impressive 20-meter Christmas tree. With over 250 stalls selling colorful souvenirs and delicious foods, there’s plenty to explore. The medieval-themed market is another highlight, offering a chance to sip hot mulled wine and enjoy performances by trombonists at the Old Town Hall.

**Explore Germany’s Best Christmas Markets**
Germany’s Christmas markets are truly magical. JoinMyTrip offers fantastic trips, including Christmas trips, where you can explore these amazing markets. You’ll have the opportunity to meet like-minded travelers and be guided by experienced TripLeaders. Don’t miss out on this unforgettable experience—book your dream trip now!