Bavaria Christmas Markets 2024

Germany is renowned for hosting some of the finest Christmas markets in Europe, and Bavaria stands out with its magical and elaborate festive celebrations. From the grand markets in Munich, Nuremberg, Rothenburg, and Regensburg to the charming Alpine villages, the region’s Christkindlmärkte offer a winter wonderland experience. Visitors can indulge in traditional holiday treats such as the iconic Nuremberg bratwurst, handcrafted Lebkuchen gingerbread, and steaming mugs of Glühwein. Whether in a bustling city square or a quaint village, Bavaria’s Christmas markets are sure to immerse you in the festive spirit.

Best Christmas markets in Bavaria

Munich Christmas Market (November 25–December 24, 2024)

Munich is home to the iconic Christkindlmarkt on Marienplatz, often regarded as the crown jewel of Bavarian Christmas markets. This festive market dates back to the 14th century and spans 5 ac (2 ha), with nearly 150 stalls offering seasonal delicacies, handmade crafts, and holiday trinkets. Each year, around 3 million visitors are drawn to its cozy and vibrant atmosphere, which features a towering 25-meter Christmas tree adorned with 3,000 candles. Not far from Marienplatz, Germany’s largest Kripperlmarkt showcases everything needed for traditional nativity scenes, from handcrafted figurines to intricate accessories. For those staying longer, other noteworthy markets include the Christmas Village at the Residenz and the Weihnachtsmarkt at the Chinese Tower. A pint at the Hofbräuhaus adds a classic Munich touch to the holiday experience.

Nuremberg Christmas Market (November 29-December 24, 2024)

Praised for its gorgeous medieval charm, Nuremberg draws about 2 million visitors to its Christkindlesmarkt in Hauptmarkt Square. Dating back to the 17th century, this Bavarian market offers an authentic Christmas experience, featuring over 180 stalls with local vendors selling handmade gifts, gingerbread, and traditional sausages. The stalls are adorned with white-and-red cloth—hence comes the fair's fancy name, "Little Town from Wood and Cloth." Highlights include the children’s market, Kinderweichnacht, with a vintage carousel and a giant Ferris wheel, as well as visits from Christkind, the angelic figure central to German Christmas folklore. This market transforms Nuremberg’s old town into a festive wonderland.

Regensburg Christmas Market (November 25–December 23, 2024)

The medieval city of Regensburg is a top destination for Christmas markets in Bavaria, offering four distinct holiday fairs within a 20-minute walk of each other. The main market, Christkindlmarkt at Neupfarrplatz, is set against the stunning backdrop of the historic Altstadt, with St. Peter’s Cathedral nearby. This market enchants visitors with beautifully decorated stalls selling handcrafted straw stars, ornaments, and cozy accessories. Daily live performances and a vintage carousel add to the festive charm, while visitors enjoy mulled wine and traditional bratwursts. A stroll from Neupfarrplatz takes you to the markets at Haidplatz, Arnulfsplatz, Wurstkuchl, and Stadtamhof, each with its unique atmosphere and twinkling Christmas trees.

Memmingen Christmas Market (November 29–December 22, 2024)

The Memmingen Christkindlesmarkt opens just in time for the first Advent with a torch-lit ceremony led by the mayor and the Christkind. Situated in the picturesque town square, surrounded by the Rathaus, historic guild houses, and charming Bürgerhäuser, the market features around 30 festive stalls offering Christmas goods and treats. Visitors can enjoy performances by choirs and brass bands, while children are entertained by Kasperle puppet shows and visits from Nikolaus, who hands out small gifts on weekends. A special highlight is the heated “Himmelsstube,” a cozy retreat where guests can enjoy the Advent season in both joyful and peaceful moments.

Rothenburg Christmas Market (November 29–December 23, 2024)

Rothenburg ob der Tauber, often hailed as the most romantic timber village in Bavaria, transforms into a fairytale during the Reiterlesmarkt (Rider’s Market). Nestled between the town hall and St. Jakob’s Church, this market is considered one of the most enchanting in Germany. In the evening, the entire old town, from Herrengasse to the atrium of the town hall, glows with festive lights. With 54 stalls offering holiday crafts and treats, visitors can also enjoy daily brass performances in the Green Market. Don’t miss the ceremonial opening, where a rider on horseback greets the crowd and the town’s massive Christmas tree is illuminated. For an extra dash of history, explore the Medieval Torture Chamber or take a walk along the city’s ancient walls.