Are German Christmas markets open in January?

Most German Christmas markets close by December 23 or 24, but several, particularly in major cities, remain open into early January 2026. Top options include Heidelberg (until Jan 1), Berlin (select markets until Jan 4), and Cologne (Heinzels Wintermärchen until Jan 4). These are often branded as "New Year" or "Winter" markets.

Do any Christmas markets go into January?

Most European Christmas markets open in mid to late November and run through December, with some staying open into the first week of January. Cities like Amsterdam and Cologne often start around mid-November.

Are Christmas markets in Germany open year round?

Simple answer: they are everywhere. The markets usually open around the end of November and run through until Christmas Eve. The big cities may have several going on at once, but you will find them in just about every small town and particularly in romantic ones such as Celle, Bamberg, Trier or Quedlinburg.

Do European Christmas markets stay open after Christmas?

When do they end? All the big locations traditionally stay open until at least December 23rd. Expect several markets to continue through the Christmas public holiday period as well. One or two may even stay open until late December or early January, often in the form of a New Year market.

What do Germans do on the 25th and 26th of December?

On December 25th (First Christmas Day) and 26th (Second Christmas Day, Zweiter Weihnachtstag), Germans enjoy official public holidays focused on quiet family time, large festive meals with traditional foods like roast goose or carp, exchanging gifts (which often happens on Christmas Eve), and visiting relatives, with most shops remaining closed as the celebration continues after the main gift-giving on Christmas Eve (Heiligabend).
 

7 Must-See German Christmas Markets from Nuremberg to Dresden

What is the best German city to visit at Christmas?

The Best Places to Spend Christmas in Germany

• Nuremberg. First on our list of the best places to spend Christmas in Germany is Nuremberg. ...
• Rothenburg ob der Tauber. Experience the magic of a medieval Christmas in Germany by staying in Rothenburg ob der Tauber. ...
• Cologne. ...
• Dresden. ...
• Munich. ...
• Düsseldorf. ...
• Stuttgart. ...
• Breitnau.

Is everything closed on 26th December in Germany?

December 26: Second Day of Christmas (St.

Many people spend the day relaxing at home, visiting relatives, or enjoying another festive meal. As it is part of the Christmas holiday period, schools and most businesses remain closed.

What is the most Christmassy city in Europe?

Berlin, Germany. It's official – Berlin takes first prize as the most festive city to celebrate the holidays in Europe.

What to do in Germany between Christmas and New Year's?

10 best Christmas & New Year Germany tour packages

• Munich Christmas Markets.
• 4-Day Nuremberg Christmas Market Experience – Discover the Magic of Christkindlesmarkt.
• GERMAN CHRISTMAS MARKETS 2026.
• 4-Day Munich Christmas Market Getaway.
• 4 Days of Berlin's Winter Magic: A Christmas Market Escape.

Is Frankfurt or Munich better for Christmas markets?

The Christmas Markets in Munich

The best part is that's just three of Munich's 12+ markets. This endless diversity and (of course) the beauty of Munich as a backdrop is why I think it's the best place to explore a wide range of awesome German Christmas markets.

What is the best German Christmas market to go to?

Germany offers many top Christmas markets, with Nuremberg (Christkindlesmarkt) known for tradition and prune men, Dresden (Striezelmarkt) for being the oldest and famous Stollen, and Cologne for its stunning cathedral backdrop; other favorites include Berlin (variety), Munich (classic Bavarian), Aachen (pastries), and Düsseldorf (multiple themed markets). The best choice depends on preference for big city buzz vs. fairytale charm, medieval themes (Esslingen), or unique regional crafts and foods like gingerbread (Lebkuchen) and mulled wine (Glühwein).
 

Are Christmas markets in Germany cash only?

Cash is king at Christmas Markets in Austria and Germany (though credit cards are accepted more and more so don't be too worried) #christmasmarket #merrychristmas #christmasinaustria #christmasingermany.

What are Stollen and Lebkuchen?

The Big Three: Essential German Christmas Candies and Cakes

Our selection includes the sought-after Original Dresden Stollen, known for its buttery dough, plump raisins, and subtle citrus zest. It's a staple you must have when you buy Stollen online. Lebkuchen: The Gingerbread Heart of Christmas.

How long are German Christmas markets open?

They usually start in the last week of November and continue up until a day or two before Christmas day. The first Sunday of Advent in 2026 is 29 November. Many Christmas markets start the Friday before the first Sunday of Advent – that is, on Friday 27 November in 2026.

What is the most beautiful Christmas market in Europe?

Berlin is one of the top destinations when it comes to the most beautiful Christmas markets in Europe. The former Gendarmenmarkt, now at Bebelplatz, is the embodiment of festive elegance. Enjoy the smell of roasted almonds and try specialities such as Berlin currywurst, potato pancakes or hot apple wine.

Are Christmas markets better in Germany or Austria?

Each market has it's own traditions, decorations, and food. Germany's markets tend to be more traditional while Austria's tend to be a bit more elaborate. Most markets end just before Christmas, but in towns such as Speyer, Germany they prolong the celebration.

What is the most Christmassy town in Germany?

While many German towns are festive, Rothenburg ob der Tauber is widely considered Germany's ultimate Christmas Town because it feels like a year-round fairytale, complete with medieval walls, cobblestone streets, numerous Christmas shops, and the famous year-round Christmas Museum (Käthe Wohlfahrt) and Reiterlesmarkt. Other top contenders include Dresden for its historic Striezelmarkt and multiple markets, and Quedlinburg for its enchanting medieval atmosphere and Advent calendar.
 

Do Germans celebrate Christmas in January?

On 25th December (Christmas Day) and 26 December, usually the family gets together for celebrations and also the religious Christians will visit Christmas mass during these days. The German festive season starts at the end of November or early December with the Advent celebrations.

What is the prettiest city to visit in Germany?

• 12 Beautiful German Cities You Should Visit.
• Eastern Germany. Leipzig. Görlitz.
• Western Germany. Trier. Mainz. Heidelberg. Baden Baden.
• Southern Germany. Bamberg. Rothenburg ob der Tauber. Würzburg. Nuremberg. Freiburg im Breisgau.

What is the most beautiful Christmas town in the world?

Rovaniemi, Finland (Santa Claus Village)

Often called the best Christmas town in the world. Village Inspiration: Snowy rooftops, log cabins, Santa's Workshop.

What is the cheapest European country to visit at Christmas?

On a Budget? Here Are the Best European Cities to Visit in Winter

• Budapest, Hungary. If you're not afraid of a little cold, then Budapest is one of the best European cities to visit in winter. ...
• Valletta, Malta. ...
• Jasná, Slovakia. ...
• Lisbon, Portugal. ...
• London, UK.

Where is Christmas Village in Europe?

Santa Claus Village is located in Rovaniemi, Finland, the official hometown of Santa Claus. Santa Claus has made Lapland in Northern Finland his home for centuries, and the Arctic Circle is close to his heart because many Christmas secrets are rooted in this magical place.

Why is everywhere closed on Sunday in Germany?

German supermarkets, as well as clothes shops, bookshops and pharmacies, are all closed on Sundays. Sunday is a “quiet day” in Germany, and a law adopted in 1950 prohibits shops from opening so people can enjoy recreational activities and time with family and friends.

Why is 6 January a holiday in Germany?

Three Kings Day | January, 6

Also known as the Epiphany, Three Kings Day (Heilige Drei Könige) is the day the German Christmas tree is taken down and child carol singers dressed as kings collect money for charity.

What happens on the 26th of December in Germany?

Well, the 25th and 26th of December in Germany are official Christmas holidays⛄❄️. They are set aside for quality family time, feasting together🍚🍗, visiting friends and relatives and enjoying more food. Shops are closed on these days!