When do the Christmas markets in Germany start?

The Christmas markets in Germany usually start in the last week of November and run until just before Christmas. Some markets even stay open until the New Year's weekend. The exact start and end dates can differ from city to city, so it's always a good idea to check in advance when the markets in your favourite destination are open.

Germany's largest Christmas market: Nuremberg

Nuremberg is home to one of the largest and most famous Christmas markets in Germany: the Christkindlesmarkt. This market attracts more than two million visitors from all over the world each year. At the heart of the market is the impressive Nuremberg Frauenkirche, where the famous “Christkind” officially opens the market. The market stalls offer everything from handmade Christmas decorations to delicious baked treats such as the famous Nuremberg Lebkuchen (gingerbread).

De mooiste kerstmarkt van Duitsland is een kwestie van persoonlijke voorkeur, aangezien elke stad zijn eigen unieke charme heeft. Sommige van de meest populaire en beroemde kerstmarkten zijn: * **Neurenberg** (Christkindlesmarkt): Bekend om zijn traditionele karakter, glühwein en de beroemde Nürnberger Rostbratwurst. * **Dresden** (Striezelmarkt): Een van de oudste kerstmarkten in Duitsland, beroemd om de Dresdner Christstollen. * **Keulen**: Met meerdere markten verspreid over de stad, waaronder de markt bij de kathedraal en de sfeervolle markt op de Alter Markt. * **München**: De Marienplatz is het toneel van een grote, traditionele kerstmarkt, met de beroemde Reiterlesmarkt op de Rindermarkt. Andere noemenswaardige markten zijn die in **Hamburg**, **Berlijn**, **Frankfurt** en de kleinere, pittoreske markten in dorpen en steden in Beieren en het Zwarte Woud. De "mooiste" hangt af van wat je zoekt: traditie, sfeer, specifieke producten of een bepaald landschap.

There are many Christmas markets considered the most beautiful in Germany, depending on what you're looking for. If you enjoy a romantic atmosphere, the Christmas market in Rothenburg ob der Tauber is highly recommended. This medieval town feels like a Christmas card come to life, with its narrow streets, cosy stalls, and fairy-tale lighting. The Christmas market in Munich is also a top choice. Located on the famous Marienplatz, this market offers not only typical Christmas stalls but also an impressive atmosphere surrounding the historic town hall.

Environmental sticker: what you need to know

When travelling to Germany by car to visit the Christmas markets, it is important to know that many German cities have environmental zones. This means you will need an environmental sticker to enter the city. The sticker is issued in different colours, and depending on your vehicle's emissions, you will receive a specific colour. This sticker must be visibly affixed to your windscreen.

Getting an environmental sticker is straightforward. You can apply for the sticker online or buy one at petrol stations and border crossings in Germany. Make sure to arrange for this sticker in good time, as you risk high fines without one. Would you like to know how to apply for an environmental sticker? Read more at this page from VWE.

Conclusion: Christmas Markets in Germany 2026

The Christmas markets in Germany are a magical experience you won't want to miss. From Nuremberg's largest Christmas market to the atmospheric markets in Rothenburg ob der Tauber, there's something for everyone. Don't forget to arrange your environmental sticker for Germany so you can enjoy these festive markets worry-free. Wishing you a sustainable Christmas experience? Then opt for public transport and enjoy the conviviality and dazzling Christmas lights without worrying about the car.

Plan your trip to Germany and experience the most beautiful Christmas markets of 2026!

View here Where you exactly need a sticker.