The Best Christmas Markets in Germany: Nuremberg and Cologne

What is the best Christmas market in Germany? For visitors, two unstoppable contenders emerge as quintessential experiences: Cologne and Nuremberg.

We invited two die-hard local advocates to champion their hometowns as the quintessential destinations for Christmas festivities. Which Christmas market stands out in Germany—and possibly, the world? Let’s delve into their compelling arguments before you decide on your holiday destination.

Why Nuremberg Reigns as the Best Christmas Market

Summer Rylander, a Nuremberg resident since 2015, believes that prune men brilliantly capture what makes her city’s market special.

While one can find a Christmas market in any corner of Germany, the Nuremberg Christmas market (Nürnberger Christkindlesmarkt) is indeed unique, primarily because of its iconic prune men.

This marks my ninth year attending, and I remain endlessly entertained by Zwetschgenmännle; charming, human-like figures crafted from dried prunes. With heads made from walnuts and bodies from figs, they are meticulously adorned to represent various interests, from sports to baking. Prune men are a Nuremberg original, sold since the 18th century, with local crafts and delectable food at the heart of the city’s holiday celebrations documented since 1530.

Centuries-Old Traditions and Global Cuisine

Nearly 500 years later, this tradition remains a centerpiece of Nuremberg’s Christmas market. As you stroll between the wooden booths in the Hauptmarkt (main square), an array of ornaments, jewelry, decorations, and festive trinkets awaits. Additionally, you will discover Nuremberg’s time-honored customs, including its renowned toymaking, luxuriously spiced gingerbread known as lebkuchen, and Nuremberg bratwurst. These delightful sausages are best enjoyed hot, filling the chilly December air with an irresistible aroma, especially when paired with Glühwein (mulled wine).

Regular attendees have a favorite booth for their mulled wine; mine is the Südtirol booth in the Markt der Partnerstädte. This market showcases booths from Nuremberg’s sister cities, making it a unique highlight that promotes cultural exchange and unity. From culinary delights to souvenirs from localities nearby like Prague and distant ones such as Shenzhen, this section of the market is irresistibly charming.

Explore Less Crowded Markets via U-Bahn

While Nuremberg’s Altstadt (old town) is where most of the festive buzz occurs—with the city’s population swelling from 500,000 to nearly two million during the season—there are quieter locations to enjoy. Stopping by Gostenhof district for a Glühbier (hot spiced beer) is a perfect option, or taking the U-Bahn just 19 minutes to Fürth, boasts another cozy and less crowded Christmas market.

The Nuremberg Christmas market is widely recognized; however, its lively energy contributes significantly to the festive atmosphere. The Christkindlesmarkt truly embodies the magic of the season, beckoning visitors to experience its wonders—even those typically averse to large crowds.

Cologne: The King of Christmas Markets

Julia Floss, a Cologne local, shares her love for the myriad of food options across the city’s markets, offering an enticing glimpse into Cologne’s culinary delights.

The enthusiasm among Cologne residents for Christmas markets is palpable, with 15 unique markets spread throughout the city, each with its dedicated following.

Newcomers to Cologne should not miss the Cathedral Christmas market. As you wander the quaint wooden stalls, the scent of fresh waffles fills the air while choirs sing Silent Night. Savoring a steaming cup of hot wine beneath the majestic cathedral is an experience that leaves a lasting impression.

When it comes to culinary traditions, Cologne delivers with classics like Reibekuchen (potato pancakes). These crispy delights made from grated potatoes, onions, and spices are typically served with apple sauce or sugar beet syrup, blending sweet and savory flavors perfectly. Another culinary staple is Himmel un Äd (Heaven and Earth), a heartwarming dish featuring black pudding, potatoes, and apples, best enjoyed in the cathedral’s company.

The Intersection of Tradition and Modernity

Next, we visit Heinzels Winter Fairytale, the city’s largest Christmas market, nestled in the heart of Cologne’s Old Town. Adorned with charming wooden stalls selling antiques and handcrafted gifts, the market also features a bustling ice rink that attracts visitors. My favorite spot is the giant swivel grill at Alter Markt, offering delectable grilled sausages and roasted mushrooms, all while enjoying the lively atmosphere of figure skaters practicing.

A stroll along the Rhine leads to the Harbour Christmas Market, where you can savor Flammlachs (fish roasted over an open flame) and sip prosecco amidst the modern skyline overlooking the river.

Celebrating Cologne’s diversity, Heavenue is a gay-friendly Christmas market that sparkles with festive cheer. It’s perfect for anyone seeking a lively party atmosphere this season.

Don’t Miss the Stadtgarten Market

While there are many Christmas markets in Cologne, Stadtgarten in the heart of the city is a standout. The park, illuminated with fairy lights, features stalls offering unique regional gifts. An absolute must-visit is the raclette hut, where guests can enjoy gooey melted cheese served over bread or potatoes, complemented by pickled veggies and thick slices of Black Forest ham.

With such delightful food and an abundance of markets, Cologne undoubtedly offers a remarkable Christmas market experience. Where else can you embrace the holiday spirit in such a vibrant and diverse way?

This article was first published on October 27, 2022, and updated on November 17, 2023.