Experiences
Christmas markets in Germany and Austria: the best cities and hotels
Mulled wine in a mug, gingerbread from Nuremberg and stollen from Dresden. How to choose a Christmas market in Germany or Austria, and where to stay in the middle of it all.
It smells of cinnamon, cloves and grilled sausages, and you are holding a warm mug of mulled wine in both hands. Around you, little stalls sell wooden toys, stars and gingerbread in rows beneath strings of lights. Church bells ring across the square.
The Christmas markets of Germany and Austria are the most famous in Europe. Some have long traditions, others are known for a particular cake. Here are the cities to choose between, and the hotels close to the markets.
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The best Christmas markets
Book the experience: See tours and experiences in Nuremberg
Nuremberg
The Christkindlesmarkt on the Hauptmarkt is one of the best-known Christmas markets in Germany, opened by the Christkind. Try Nuremberg Lebkuchen and the little sausages served three in a roll.
Dresden
Dresden's Striezelmarkt is considered one of the oldest Christmas markets in Germany. The city is famous for its stollen, and a giant Christmas pyramid stands in the middle of the market.
Cologne
Cologne has several Christmas markets, and the best known stands right by the cathedral. Combine the market with a climb up the cathedral tower.
Vienna
Vienna has Christmas markets all over the city, and the largest is in front of the town hall. The market at Schönbrunn Palace is calmer.
Book the experience: See tours and experiences in Vienna
Tips for the Christmas markets
Mug deposit: you pay a deposit on your mulled wine mug and get it back, or keep the mug as a souvenir.
Weekdays: weekends are very busy. Go on a weekday or early in the evening.
Dress warmly: you will be outside for hours.
If you have time, the Christmas market in Innsbruck in the Alps is also worth a visit.
Innsbruck
The Christmas market in Innsbruck old town.
Innsbruck
In Innsbruck the market stands in the old town beneath the mountains, and the atmosphere is lovely with snow on the peaks.
Where to stay near the Christmas markets
Stay central so you can walk to the market in the evening and back to the hotel when you get cold.
Le Méridien Grand Hotel Nürnberg
By the station in Nuremberg.
Le Méridien Grand Hotel Nürnberg
Le Méridien is opposite the main station in Nuremberg, a short walk from the old town and the Christkindlesmarkt.
Book your stay: See rooms at Le Méridien Grand Hotel Nürnberg
Hotel Taschenbergpalais Kempinski
In Dresden old town.
Hotel Taschenbergpalais Kempinski
The Taschenbergpalais is in the heart of Dresden's old town, close to the Striezelmarkt. A historic palace with a spa.
Book your stay: See rooms at Hotel Taschenbergpalais Kempinski
Excelsior Hotel Ernst am Dom
By Cologne Cathedral.
Excelsior Hotel Ernst am Dom
The Excelsior Hotel Ernst is right by Cologne Cathedral, with the Christmas market outside the door.
Book your stay: See rooms at Excelsior Hotel Ernst am Dom
Hotel Sacher Wien
Next to the opera in Vienna.
Hotel Sacher Wien
Hotel Sacher is next to the opera in Vienna, home to the famous café and Sachertorte. Several Christmas markets are a short walk away.
Book your stay: See rooms at Hotel Sacher Wien
Hotel Imperial, a Luxury Collection Hotel
Christmas decorations at the Hotel Imperial.
Hotel Imperial, a Luxury Collection Hotel
The Imperial is on the Ringstraße in a former palace. It is beautifully decorated for Christmas, and you can walk to the market at the town hall.
Book your stay: See rooms at Hotel Imperial, a Luxury Collection Hotel
When are the Christmas markets open?
Late November: most markets open around the first Sunday of Advent.
December: peak season. Many markets close around 23 or 24 December.
Some markets: stay open until New Year. Check the dates for your city.
Christmas markets FAQ
Which Christmas market is the best?
Nuremberg, Dresden, Cologne and Vienna are among the most famous.
When do the Christmas markets open?
Most open in late November.
What should I try?
Mulled wine, Lebkuchen in Nuremberg and stollen in Dresden.
Do I have to pay for the mug?
You pay a deposit, which you get back when you return the mug.
Where should I stay?
Centrally, close to the market, so you can walk there in the evening.