For a truly unique and enchanting way to spend the Christmas holiday, travel to a Christmas market in Germany. Very popular with the locals and tourists alike, these traditional markets speak to a time in the past when Christmas was magical and special. If you’d like to return to a time when Christmas was all about goodwill and love, these Christmas markets are the perfect holiday getaway.
Christmas markets typically begin the last week of November and are open each day through Christmas Eve. Those in Mainz, Trier, and Koblenz are known to be large markets, while the one in Heidelberg features an ice rink. For a true picture of what Christmas means to the Germans, visit at least two markets—one in a city and one in a charming little village.
(Note: November 20, 2011 is a special remembrance holiday called Totensonntag, and Christmas markets may not be open. Be sure to check with your travel agent.)
One of the most well known Christmas markets is the one in Baden-Baden, though many other cities, such as Munich, have incredible markets of their own.
Christkindelsmarkt
Baden-Baden’s Christmas market is romantic and enchanting. From its live nativity scene to the wide variety of music throughout the season, you’ll love the festive atmosphere as you browse the stands and shops selling artisan handmade gifts, woodcarvings, toys, clothing, and jewelry.
The food at Christkindelsmarkt will not only keep you warm, but will also make you smile on the inside. From mulled wine to roasted chestnuts and grilled sausage to delicious sweets and fruits, you’ll wonder why you didn’t make the journey before now.
Christkindl Markt
Munich’s version of the Christmas market is the center of the town’s activity for the month before Christmas. You’ll not only enjoy over 150 enchanting stands and shops, but you’ll also enjoy the architecture and charm of the old part of the city. You’ll love the live Christmas music as you become part of a tradition that has been alive for over 300 years.
Nostalgic Christmas market
The Christmas market in Bad Hönningen is known for its historic, cozy atmosphere, as well as its live music and lively decorations. This market features a merry-go-round, pony riding, and Santa Claus handing out gifts. A large Advent calendar rests on one wall of the Hohe Haus and overlooks a lavishly decorated square and variety of nativity scenes.
When you visit Germany’s Christmas markets, you’ll experience a new side to Christmas that we often don’t see here: a traditional celebration full of romance, festive food and music, and gifts created from the heart.
For more information on the Christmas markets of Germany and elsewhere in Europe, please visit our Facebook page.
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Pingback by Holiday Celebrations Around the Globe: Holiday Travel | Well Designed Journeys — December 16, 2011 @ 3:49 pm
[...] happy holiday in the U.S., it’s also a special time in other countries. Today, we’re exploring Christmas in Germany, Australia, and [...]
Comment by Dora Theiss — December 17, 2011 @ 1:32 pm
Just back from the European Christmas markets (Switzerland, France, and Germany). It was an incredible experience that even non shoppers should not miss.
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