Koblenz Christmas Market 2024-2025 in Germany

The Koblenz Christmas Market is one of the most anticipated holiday events in southwestern Germany, drawing visitors from across the region with its blend of tradition, festive atmosphere, and winter delights. Set against the backdrop of Koblenz’s historic Old Town, the market offers a six-week celebration, which transforms the city into a sea of lights, festive scents, and joyful activities.

Activities and Attractions

The Koblenz Christmas Market offers something for everyone. With over 130 wooden stalls scattered across seven different squares—including Zentralplatz, Jesuitenplatz, and Münzplatz—visitors can immerse themselves in the festive spirit while browsing handmade crafts, unique gifts, and traditional holiday treats. The air is filled with the rich scents of roasted almonds, mulled wine, and gingerbread, while local specialties such as Krebbelcher pancakes provide a taste of the region.

Entertainment is plentiful, with live music ranging from Christmas carols to jazz performances happening most evenings. Families with children can enjoy horse-drawn carriage rides through the scenic streets of Old Town or visit the Christmas pyramid at Münzplatz, a popular spot for social gatherings. A large ice-skating rink adds to the festive fun, while kids can also enjoy movies and the famous Advent calendar at the City Hall, where a new window opens daily to reveal a festive scene.

Schedule and Program

The Koblenz Christmas Market is open daily during its six-week run, though specific hours vary depending on the day. Typically, the market opens in the late morning around 10 am and stays vibrant well into the evening, with later hours on weekends. As the organizers claim, each of the seven squares offers a unique experience, so visitors are encouraged to explore them all, from the festive displays at Willi-Hörter-Platz to the quiet charm of the smaller market at Liebfrauenkirche.

One of the standout attractions during the season is the "Christmas Garden" at Ehrenbreitstein Fortress. This light and sound installation is described as a magical experience, featuring elaborate illuminations that transform the fortress into a winter wonderland. Visitors can reach the site via a scenic cable car ride from the Deutsches Eck.

Ticket Prices

Admission to the Koblenz Christmas Market is free, although individual activities, such as ice skating or entry to the Christmas Garden, require a ticket. Ticket prices for the Christmas Garden vary, with discounts available for children and families. Adults (15+) pay €19.95, while tickets for children (6-14) are €13.95, and those under 5 enter for free. Family Days on December 9 and 16 and January 6 allow admission for up to five people at €39.95, and families can purchase a ticket for €53.95. Group rates are available for 21 or more. Parking options in Koblenz are plentiful, with several public parking garages located near the market areas.

Location and Infrustructure

The market is centrally located in Koblenz’s Old Town, making it easily accessible by public transportation. Koblenz is well-connected by train along the Rhein route, linking cities like Cologne, Bonn, Bingen, and Mainz. From Koblenz's main station (Hauptbahnhof), the Old Town, where the Weihnachtsmarkt is located, is about 1 mile (1.5 km) away. Visitors can easily walk or take a bus that departs from just outside the station. For those looking to explore more of the region, the famous Rhine Valley, known for its picturesque landscapes and castles, is just a short distance away, offering visitors an additional opportunity to experience the beauty of Germany in winter.

History of the Market

First held over 40 years ago, the Koblenz Christmas Market has grown into one of the largest and most beloved markets in the region. Initially started as a modest event in the square "Am Plan," it has since expanded across multiple locations, each offering a different take on festive traditions. Over the years, the market has introduced new attractions, such as the inclusion of the "Christmas Garden" and more family-oriented activities at Josef-Görres-Platz, while maintaining its focus on traditional holiday cheer.

As the organizers claim, the market has remained true to its roots, offering visitors a sense of nostalgia with its classic wooden stalls, handmade crafts, and timeless holiday décor. Each year, it continues to evolve while preserving the festive charm that has made it a hallmark of the region’s Christmas season.