AACHEN
Market Dates: Aachen’s Christmas Market will be open November 21 to December 23, 2025
Hours: Daily 11am-9pm, Except Nov 23 6-9pm, Dec 13 11am-10pm, Dec 23 11am-9pm
Recommended Accommodations:
- Art Hotel Superior has a cool, modern vibe with lots of unique artwork around the place. It’s about a 10-minute walk to the Christmas market, so it’s convenient to all the festive action. The rooms are comfy, and the whole hotel has a laid-back, artistic feel to it.
Arrival & Location:
Aachen is a lively city with a lot of history, sitting right on the borders of Germany, Belgium, and the Netherlands. It’s famous for its stunning cathedral and charming old town. Getting here is easy. Aachen’s main train station is well-connected to cities like Cologne, Düsseldorf, and Brussels. From there, it’s just a short walk to the city center and the Christmas markets.
The city’s public transport is pretty straightforward, with buses and trams making it simple to get around. Aachen is also really walkable, especially in the historic center.
If you’re driving, there are parking options around the center, but it’s usually easier to use public transport or park a little outside the main area, especially when the Christmas market gets busy.
Accessibility:
The Old Town in Aachen is super easy to get around, especially on foot. The cobbled streets and narrow alleys might be a little tricky for those with limited mobility, but overall, the area is quite accessible. The Christmas market, which is right in the heart of the Old Town, is also easy to reach, and it’s mostly pedestrian-friendly.
If you have mobility issues, there are a few things to keep in mind: Some areas around the market can get crowded, so it might be slower going during peak times. The main streets leading to the market are generally flat and accessible, and there are a few spots where you can rest if needed.
Restaurant Recommendations:
Al Triangolo is a cozy, family-owned Italian restaurant known for its authentic dishes and welcoming atmosphere. It offers a variety of classic Italian meals, from fresh pastas to pizzas.
Holiday Activities:
The curling rink will be open during the holiday season. Advance reservations are suggested and can be made here.
BADEN-BADEN
Market Dates: November 27, 2025 thru January 6, 2026
The Baden-Baden Christkindelsmarkt is a charming and picturesque Christmas market held in the historic spa town of Baden-Baden, Germany. Set against the backdrop of beautifully illuminated 19th-century architecture, the market offers a festive atmosphere filled with the aroma of mulled wine, roasted chestnuts, and freshly baked gingerbread. Visitors can explore a variety of wooden stalls offering handcrafted gifts, traditional decorations, and artisanal treats. The market is renowned for its warm, welcoming ambiance, often featuring live music, seasonal performances, and a picturesque ice-skating rink, making it an enchanting destination for holiday shoppers and families alike.
Recommended Accommodations:
- Brenners Park Hotel & Spa – A luxurious 5-star hotel offering a short walk to the Christmas Market, ideal for guests seeking convenience and elegance.
- Hotel Merkur – A quaint 4-star boutique hotel located just a 2-minute walk from the markets, perfect for visitors looking for proximity and comfort during their stay in the spa town.
Arrival & Location: The city recommends using public transport, especially on weekends.
- Park & Ride: When using the P&R parking spaces in the Cineplex garage, up to 5 people per parking ticket have free transportation on line 205 to the city centre (Leopoldsplatz/Sophienstraße stop).
- Car parks: Overview of all car parks.
Accessibility: People with walking difficulties and wheelchair users can access the Christmas market. Per the city, entrances and all paths are barrier-free, while only the historic drinking hall with the nativity scene exhibition cannot be visited without taking a few steps. The Christmas huts are easily accessible
Holiday Activities:
- Rockin’ Around the Christmas Tree: Every year, the daily live program on the Sky Stage of the Baden-Baden Christmas Market delights! Look forward to concerts with top live bands, numerous artists, choirs, orchestras, and much more. Get swept away by the festive atmosphere and experience exuberant moments under the starry sky.
- Exclusive Dining in a Private Igloo: A visit to one of the 11 gourmet igloos at the Christmas market takes you into a unique culinary winter wonderland. Expect exquisite enjoyment in an extraordinary atmosphere. The pop-up restaurant offers a “Fondue menu”, a combination of meat fondue and raclette cheese, perfectly complemented with regional wines. The gourmet igloos accommodate up to 8 guests and can be booked online for groups of 4 or more.
- Guided Christmas Market Tour: Discover the winter magic of the Baden-Baden Christmas Market on our 2-hour guided tour that includes 8 culinary tastings, insights into arts and crafts, stop at the most beautiful photo spots, and a sweet surprise and souvenirs to take home. The English-speaking tours are available every Saturday from 2-4pm from Nov 25-30, 2024.
Restaurant Recommendations:
- Restaurant Nigrum is a fine dining establishment in Baden-Baden, renowned for its innovative and modern European cuisine. With an emphasis on seasonal ingredients and creative presentations, Nigrum provides an elegant dining experience in a stylish setting.
- Monte Christo is a popular restaurant in Baden-Baden known for its Mediterranean-inspired cuisine and warm ambiance. Located in a historic building, the restaurant offers a menu that blends traditional flavors with contemporary twists, featuring dishes like grilled meats, seafood, and flavorful salads.
- Ristorante Stromboli offers a taste of authentic Italian cuisine in the heart of Baden-Baden. Known for its cozy atmosphere and traditional dishes, the restaurant serves a variety of pasta, pizza, and seafood, all prepared with fresh ingredients and served with Italian hospitality.
Be sure to make advance reservations during the busy holiday season.
Website: Baden-Baden Christmas Market
COLOGNE
The city of Cologne’s Christmas markets will be open November 17 – December 23, 2025.
Hours: Sun-Wed 11am-9pm, Thu-Fri 11am-10pm, Sat 10am-10pm
Cologne has seven main Christmas markets, each offering a unique festive experience. Here they are:
Chocolate Museum Christmas Market
Situated at the Chocolate Museum, this market celebrates Cologne’s famous sweet treat, with stalls offering chocolate-themed gifts, snacks, and delicious hot chocolate drinks. It’s a sweet escape for anyone with a love of chocolate!
Cologne Cathedral Christmas Market
Set against the backdrop of the stunning Cologne Cathedral, this is the city’s most famous market. It features a grand selection of festive stalls, including handmade crafts, delicious food, and plenty of mulled wine, all in a magical setting.
Old Market (Altstadt) Christmas Market
Located in the heart of Cologne’s historic Old Town, this market exudes traditional charm. It offers a cozy atmosphere with wooden stalls, artisan products, and a variety of regional treats.
Harbor Christmas Market (Rheinauhafen)
This market takes place at the picturesque Rheinauhafen district, with its modern architecture and riverside views. It has a slightly more contemporary feel, with a focus on unique gifts, holiday décor, and plenty of food and drink options.
Angel’s Market (Engel’s Markt)
Held at Neumarkt, this market has a fairy-tale vibe with its angel-themed decorations. You’ll find artisanal crafts, festive treats, and a warm, welcoming atmosphere perfect for families and visitors of all ages.
Cologne’s Christmas Market at the Stadtgarten
This market, located in the green space of Stadtgarten, offers a relaxed and charming atmosphere. Known for its focus on regional products and crafts, it’s a great spot to discover local artisans and enjoy a peaceful break from the hustle and bustle.
Cologne’s Market of the Three Kings (Dreikönig-Markt)
A smaller market with a focus on celebrating the Epiphany and the Three Kings, this market has a unique twist, offering both classic Christmas items and international crafts, alongside live music and festive performances.
Recommended Accommodation:
- The Midtown Hotel is a fantastic place to stay in Cologne. My husband and I had a wonderful stay here and loved the central location that made it easy to walk to several of the city’s Christmas markets. The hotel is modern and comfortable, offering a perfect base for exploring the festive holiday atmosphere.
Arrival & Location:
Getting around Cologne is easy, as the city is well-connected by public transport. The main train station, Köln Hauptbahnhof, is right next to the Cologne Cathedral and only a short walk from several Christmas markets, including the Cologne Cathedral Christmas Market. From there, you can easily walk or hop on a tram to explore other markets around the city. Buses and trams are also very accessible for getting around, and they run frequently throughout the holiday season.
If you’re driving, there are several parking garages near the city center, but be aware that parking can be tricky and pricey, especially near the markets. The city recommends to use public transport or park a little further out and take public transport into the heart of the city. Many areas, including the Old Town, are pedestrian-friendly, so once you arrive, walking is the best way to get around and soak in the holiday spirit.
Accessibility: Cologne is generally quite accessible for people with disabilities or special needs, especially during the Christmas market season. Many public transport options, including trams and buses, are equipped with low floors for easy access, and Köln Hauptbahnhof (the main train station) has elevators, ramps, and wide doors to accommodate wheelchairs.
The Christmas markets themselves are also designed to be accessible, with most of them being located in pedestrian areas, though some areas may be a bit crowded, especially on weekends. The stalls are generally reachable with a wheelchair, though cobbled streets and uneven surfaces may pose some challenges in certain parts of the city center.
Restaurant Recommendations:
- Ristorante Pizzeria Il Valentino is a charming Italian restaurant known for its tasty pizzas and classic Italian dishes. The vibe is laid-back and friendly, making it a perfect spot for a casual meal. Whether you’re in the mood for a classic pizza or something a bit different, they offer a variety of options made with fresh ingredients. It’s a great place to enjoy some authentic Italian flavors in Cologne!
- Takumi is a fantastic spot if you’re a big fan of ramen like I am. They serve up delicious, authentic bowls of ramen in a cozy atmosphere. Definitely worth checking out if you’re in the mood for top-notch ramen!
Website: Home – Christmas Market at Cologne Cathedral
NUREMBERG
Nuremberg’s Christmas Markets will be open November 28 thru December 24, 2005.
Market Hours: Mon-Sun 10am-9pm, Except Dec 24 10am-2pm
The Nuremberg Christmas Market is a total highlight if you’re in town during the holidays. It’s in the heart of the Old Town, all decked out with lights, and filled with stalls offering everything from delicious food to unique gifts. You’ll find traditional treats like bratwurst, gingerbread, and mulled wine. The whole vibe is super festive, and it’s just a fun place to wander around, soak in the atmosphere, and enjoy the holiday spirit.
Recommended Accommodations:
- Novotel Nuremberg Centre Ville is a good choice if you’re looking for a convenient place to stay near the Christmas markets. It’s only a short walk to the market, so you can easily pop by whenever you want. The hotel itself is modern and comfy, with spacious rooms, free Wi-Fi, and a nice breakfast. It’s a great spot for both families and solo travelers.
- Mövenpick Hotel Nürnberg is just a short walk from the Old Town and the Christmas Markets, so it’s really convenient if you want to check out the holiday action. The hotel’s got a nice, modern vibe, and the rooms are comfortable. It’s a great spot if you’re looking for something simple but nice while you’re in town.
Restaurant Recommendations:
- Namaste is a great place for Indian food. They have a variety of dishes, including curries, tandoori options, and plenty of vegetarian and vegan choices. The atmosphere is casual and relaxed.
- Padelle d’Italia in Nuremberg is a great spot if you’re in the mood for some good Italian food. They’ve got everything from pastas to pizzas, all super tasty. The vibe is laid-back, so it’s perfect for a chill meal with friends or family. Definitely worth checking out if you’re craving Italian!
Arrival & Location:
The Nuremberg Christmas Market is located right in the heart of the city at Hauptmarkt Square, making it easy to get to. If you’re traveling by public transport, you can take the U-Bahn or trams, with stops very close to the market. For drivers, there are parking garages nearby, and you’ll find plenty of parking spots within walking distance. Once you’re at the market, getting around is simple, most of the stalls and attractions are all within walking distance, so it’s easy to explore and enjoy the festive atmosphere.
Accessibility:
The Nuremberg Christmas Market is pretty accessible for people with disabilities. There are wide paths and ramps throughout the market, so it’s easy to get around in a wheelchair or with a stroller. They’ve also got accessible toilets at different spots, which makes things more convenient. If you have a guide dog, they’re welcome, too. There are accessible parking spots nearby. Overall, it’s a great place to enjoy the holiday fun without worrying about accessibility!
Holiday Events:
The Nuremberg Christmas Market offers several fun activities for children, including the Children’s Christmas Market “Kinderweihnacht” with a two-tiered merry-go-round, a mini Ferris wheel, and a child-sized steam train. Kids can also enjoy hands-on booths where they can create treats or art. The Sternenhaus nearby hosts over 150 cultural events, with some specially tailored for English-speaking visitors. Another highlight is the Lantern Procession, a heartwarming tradition, and visitors can also enjoy a stagecoach tour around the market.
Website: Nuremberg Christmas Market – christkindlesmarkt.de
ROTHENBURG OB DER TAUBER
The Rothenburg ob der Tauber Christmas Market will be open November 21 to December 23, 2025.
Market Hours: Mon-Thu 10am-7pm, Fri-Sun 10am-8pm
The Rothenburg ob der Tauber Christmas Market is like stepping into a fairytale! The medieval town looks absolutely magical, with its cobblestone streets, colorful buildings, and twinkling lights. The market itself is set in the town’s historic square, and you’ll find all sorts of festive treats like mulled wine, roasted chestnuts, and traditional German Christmas cookies. It’s small but super charming, with handmade ornaments, local crafts, and beautiful decorations everywhere you look. It’s the perfect spot to soak in that classic Christmas spirit while wandering around the quaint streets. Plus, there’s a lovely Christmas shop called the “Reiterlesmarkt” where you can pick up unique gifts and souvenirs.
Recommended Accommodation:
- Hotel BurgGartenpalais is a great choice for those visiting the Christmas Market. It’s just a short walk from the market and is set in a peaceful area with lovely gardens. Rooms are modern and comfortable, and a perfect for visitors who want both comfort and convenience near the holiday action.
Restaurant Recommendation:
- Zur Holl is actually a popular restaurant located very close to the Christmas market. It serves traditional German cuisine in a cozy, rustic setting. It’s perfect if you’re looking to enjoy some local flavors while being just a short walk from the Christmas market in the heart of the town.
Arrival & Location:
- Trains: Rothenburg ob der Tauber is well-connected by train. The nearest train station is a short 15-minute walk from the town center. The travel times by train to Rothenburg ob der Tauber from nearby cities can vary depending on connections, but here’s a general idea:
- Nuremberg to Rothenburg ob der Tauber: About 1.5 to 2 hours. You’ll need to change trains in either Ansbach or Steinach.
- Munich to Rothenburg ob der Tauber: Around 2.5 to 3 hours. You’ll typically transfer in either Nuremberg or Ansbach.
- Frankfurt to Rothenburg ob der Tauber: About 2.5 to 3 hours. You’ll change trains, usually in Würzburg or Nuremberg.
- Stuttgart to Rothenburg ob der Tauber: Approximately 3 hours. You’ll generally transfer in either Nuremberg or Ansbach.
- Parking: Since Rothenburg is a small medieval town, the historic center is mostly pedestrian-only. However, there are several parking lots located just outside the city walls, and they’re easy to access. The most popular options are the P1 (Gerlachshaus), P2 (Bahnhofstrasse), and P3 (Marktplatz) parking lots. From these, it’s a short walk into the town center where the Christmas market is located. During the Christmas season, these lots can get crowded, so it’s best to arrive early.
During the holiday season, Rothenburg ob der Tauber can get quite busy, especially with the Christmas markets and the influx of visitors. The streets and the Christmas market area are beautifully decorated, but they can also be crowded, so be prepared for a cozy, bustling atmosphere.
Website: Tourism Rothenburg ob der Tauber: Reiterlesmarkt – the Christmas market in Rothenburg ob der Tauber
STUTTGART
Stuttgart’s Christmas Market will be open November 26 to December 23, 2025.
Market Hours: To be announced
I loved Stuttgart’s festive Christmas markets! Here’s a list of the main ones:
- Stuttgart Christmas Market – This is the largest and most famous market, located in the city center around the historic Old Castle. It’s one of the oldest Christmas markets in Europe, dating back to 1692. You’ll find a charming mix of traditional wooden stalls, selling everything from handcrafted ornaments to festive treats like roasted almonds and mulled wine. The atmosphere is magical with beautiful lights, a large Christmas tree, and plenty of live music performances.
- Stuttgart’s Medieval Christmas Market – Located near the Old Castle, this market offers a unique experience with a medieval twist. The market features stalls that resemble those from the Middle Ages, selling medieval-inspired goods, food, and crafts. The market is known for its rustic charm, with artisans dressed in period costumes and offering handmade items like candles, pottery, and traditional toys. It’s a great place to step back in time while enjoying the festive cheer.
- Christmas Market at Karlsplatz – The Karlsplatz Christmas Market is a smaller, more intimate market that’s perfect for those looking for a cozy, relaxed vibe. The market is set up in the lovely Karlsplatz square, surrounded by beautiful architecture. Here, you can enjoy a variety of Christmas treats, local handicrafts, and mulled wine. The market has a very local, community feel to it.
- Weihnachtsmarkt am Schlossplatz – This market is another prominent part of Stuttgart’s Christmas celebrations, located in front of the grand Neues Schloss (New Palace). It’s part of the main Stuttgart Christmas Market but focuses on high-quality, artisanal products. You’ll find premium handcrafted items, as well as gourmet food stalls offering a range of delicious seasonal foods. The market is beautifully lit up, adding to the festive atmosphere.
- Stuttgart’s “Wintertraum” at the Markthalle – Known as the “Winter Dream,” this market inside Stuttgart’s iconic Markthalle (Market Hall) is perfect for those looking for unique, locally sourced food and gourmet treats. The market offers an indoor experience where you can enjoy a wide range of delicacies like chocolate, pastries, and local specialties. It’s a more laid-back spot to escape the cold while still soaking in the holiday spirit.
Recommended Accommodations:
- Le Meridien Stuttgart is just a 10-minute walk to the Christmas markets. My husband and I stayed here in December, and it was the perfect spot for our holiday trip. The hotel is comfortable and well-located, making it super easy to visit the markets whenever we wanted. After a day of exploring, we could relax in the cozy ambiance of the hotel, and the festive lights and atmosphere outside added to the charm of the whole experience.
Restaurant Recommendations:
- Umami Ramen is is a total gem if you’re into ramen! We loved it! The broths are rich and flavorful, and they’ve got all the classic toppings you want. The vibe is super chill, making it a perfect spot for a laid-back meal.
- Le Cassoulet is located within the Le Meridien hotel and is a great option if you want something a little more fancy. We had dinner here and the food was very good, and the service was top notch.
Arrival & Location:
Accessibility:
Read all about the Stuttgart markets’ accessibility here.
Holiday Events:
There will be a miniature railway and a mini ferris wheel for kids, as well as a living nativity scene for everyone to enjoy.
Website: Home: Stuttgarter Weihnachtsmarkt 26.11. – 23.12.2025