From its gleaming cities strung with glittering lights to its sprawling countryside scenery and charming half-timbered houses dusted with snow, Germany is truly a magical place to spend wintertime. Famed for its whimsical holiday festivities, this enchanting country boasts over 2,500 winter markets where visitors can shop for hand-crafted trinkets, sip on mulled wine, and listen to festive music. In the southeast region of Germany, Bavaria is home to a slew of enchanting medieval cities, flaunting age-old castles and idyllic town squares where these markets are hosted. Discover three of Bavaria’s most beguiling locations for such seasonal celebrations!

– NUREMBERG –


Considered the world's most famous German Christmas market, the Nuremberg Christkindlesmarkt is set within the city’s medieval walls of Old Town, immediately enchanting visitors with its Gothic architecture and emanating the vibes of an old timey marketplace. Here, visitors can shop for hand-made crafts and goods, savor tasty Nuremberg sausages, stop to ride the multi-tiered carousel, and participate in gingerbread-making classes!

Nuremberg Market Dates: November 29 – December 24, 2024
Take a tour: Nuremberg Christmas Market Tour 
More Market Information Here 

– ROTHENBURG OB DER TAUBER –

A medieval city adorned with half-timbered houses and cobblestone lanes, Rothenburg ob der Tauber is a gem in the heart of Bavaria’s Franconia region, flaunting charm at every corner. During Advent, the entire old town starts to glow as the famed Reiterlesmarkt sets up shop for the season with with dozens of market stalls. Musical groups take to the stage at the Green Market to enchant visitors with traditional brass music suited for the season.

Rothenburg Market Dates: November 29 – December 23, 2024
Take a Tour: Rothenburg Walking Tour 
More Market Information Here 

– REGENSBURG –

Located along the dazzling Danube River, Regensburg shimmers with appeal as four local markets open up for Christmastime. Meander all throughout the well-preserved medieval city to explore its myriad of stalls, whether at Neupfarrplatz – the city’s oldest market boasting over 200 years of history – or the unique environment of the Romantic market, taking place inside the Thurn and Taxis Castle square.

Neufarrplatz Market Dates: November 25 – December 23, 2024
Thurn and Taxis Market Dates: November 22 – December 23, 2024
Take a Tour: Regensburg Walking Tour 
More Market Information Here 

 Discover more about where to go this winter season with our partners from Bavaria Tourism!