10 Exciting Christmas Markets In Munich Germany 2023
Trying to take in all of Munich’s abundant Christmas markets can quickly lead to holiday fatigue.
With years of experience celebrating Advent in Munich, we’re now familiar with the city’s standout and iconic Christmas markets, which we are excited to share with you.
In this guide, we’ll highlight the top Christmas markets to check out in Munich, along with the best activities, local food and products, ways to get around town, and tips for making the most out of your visit to these charming holiday markets.
So, let us help you plan your special trip to the Munich Weihnachtsmärkte this season!
Christmas Markets in Munich
As the winter season arrives, Munich sees the opening of its beloved Christmas markets.
Average temperatures here range from 1°C (33.8°F) during this period, perfect for visiting the Christmas markets and enjoying the festive ambiance while bundling up.
From unique markets featuring medieval themes to those offering sustainable and locally-produced goods, there is an abundance of holiday cheer to discover.
Here are the iconic Christmas markets in Munich that you should not miss:
Traditional Christmas Markets in Munich
Despite an ever-modernizing world, the magic and nostalgia of Munich’s old-world Christmas markets endure.
Their rich history and time-honored charm make them an essential part of the city’s Advent season.
So bundle up because the spirit of the season awaits among the wooden huts and cobbled lanes of these timeless traditions that are still kicking year after year.
Christmas Market in Marienplatz (Christkindlmarkt)
If you’re into genuine Bavarian traditions and a chill atmosphere, this is the spot in Munich for Christmas vibes.
The Christmas Market at Marienplatz in Munich is pretty much one of the city’s oldest and most traditional markets, going all the way back to the 14th century.
It’s got this cool backdrop of the neo-Gothic town hall that gives off this old-school Bavarian vibe.
Note that it’s not just in the square; it expands into the nearby shopping streets and spills over into the Rindermarkt, creating a winter wonderland.
Special Attractions
This market is known to be one of the biggest on the whole Nativity scene. And if you want a touch of mountain magic, don’t miss their alpine nativity scenes.
They also have this huge 25-meter Christmas tree with 3,000 LED candles, lit up every day from 4 pm to 11 pm.
It’s such an incredible tree to see in person – the photos don’t do it justice.
Be on the lookout for live performances from the town hall balcony at around 5:30 pm throughout the season.
You will get to witness a delightful blend of German holiday classics, Bavarian music, folk tunes, and international tunes.
It’s a festive experience that adds a special touch to your holiday celebrations.
And watch out for this Krampus run scene on December 10, 2023, from 3 pm to 5 pm.
This event is where people dress in crazy demon costumes and parade through the streets.
Just a warning, though – things get rowdy and chaotic at these kinds of events. It might be best to avoid the area if you’re not into that kind of scene.
But if you like watching grown adults in silly costumes running around acting foolish, it may just make your day.
This Christmas market is also great for kids because they have this heavenly workshop called Himmelswerkstatt, where they can do crafts for free if they’re aged six to twelve.
It definitely kept my niece and nephew entertained for hours!
For foodies out there, this Christmas market has over 130 wooden huts selling tasty treats like rahm schmankerl (a flatbread with bacon and cheese), nutcrackers, bratwurst, cheese spätzle (German pasta dish), lebkuchen (gingerbread cookies), and mulled wine.
Beyond the food and drink, they sell nativity scene pieces, handmade decorations, and more.
So, if you’re looking for souvenirs, we suggest a glühwein mug as a nice gift for your loved ones back home.
Marienplatz can get pretty hectic ’cause it’s super popular, but the whole setup, the music, and the vibe make it worth checking out.
Opening Hours
The Christkindlmarkt in Marienplatz is open daily from November 27th through December 24th this year.
You can stop by from 10 am to 9 pm, Monday through Saturday, to check out the market and do some holiday shopping.
On Sundays, they close up a little earlier, at 8pm (except for Christmas Eve when they shut down at 2pm).
Cost of Entry
You can visit the Christmas market in Marienplatz for free!
How to Get There
You’ve got a couple of options to get to the Christmas Market.
You can hop on the S-Bahn or U-Bahn and stop at Karlsplatz Station. From there, it’s just a chill 10-minute walk to the market.
But, if the weather’s not playing nice, you can just hail a taxi, and you’ll be soaking in the holiday cheer in about 3 minutes.
Just a heads up, though – taxis can hit the wallet a bit harder, so it’s your call on the convenience-to-budget ratio.
Christmas Market at Rindermarkt
The Christmas market at Rindermarkt is a laid-back option compared to the bustling Marienplatz market.
It’s tucked just south of Marienplatz and has a super cozy and romantic feel that we really liked.
Special Attractions
One cool spot is the Sternenplatzl am Rindermarkt – a cozy square with a Christmas pyramid (Weihnachtspyramide), setting a chill and magical mood.
When it gets dark, and they light up the starry trees around the place, it gets an even more chill and Christmasy feeling.
It’s definitely a nice spot to stop by if you wanna get into the holiday spirit.
This market is known for its flame-roasted salmon sandwiches – a must-try savory delight.
Another cool thing they have is the Feuerzangenbowle, where they light up a rum-soaked sugar block that drips into the glühwein.
It was a quirky twist that drew us in after a unique Christmas market experience.
And while you’re strolling, don’t miss Lion’s Tower (Löwenturm Rindermarkt) – a Medieval tower from the 12th century.
Opening Hours
The Christmas market runs from November 27,2023 to December 24,2023, with hours running 10am to 9pm Monday to Saturday and 10am to 8pm on Sundays.
So, there is plenty of time to wander around and check out all the booths and snacks while doing some holiday shopping.
Cost of Entry
Admission is totally free, so you can just show up and stroll around without worrying about tickets or fees.
How to Get There
Karlsplatz Station is your go-to spot if you’re heading to the Christmas Market at Rindermarkt.
You have the option to take either the S-Bahn or U-Bahn.
Winter Magic at the Viktualienmarkt
If you’re into Christmas traditions and good eats, Viktualienmarkt’s the place to be.
Right between the Residenz and Marienplatz, this market has been around since 1807.
Special Attractions
The market really goes all out at Christmas, decking the place out with stalls and twinkling lights.
It has this Maypole that’s decorated with little village scenes and Christmas stuff.
It’s pretty homey and gets you in the mood to belt out some carols and spread some seasonal cheer.
During the festive stretch, Viktualienmarkt turns into a foodie paradise.
It’s got most here – honey, fish, traditional beer, sausages, cheese, mulled cider, and some spicy mulled wine to keep you toasty.
We greatly suggest that you visit the beer garden because they have a Nativity scene set up, which is a good spot to hang out with some food or a warm drink.
It’s not just about the grub, though. You can also snag some wreaths and other Christmas decorations to make your home merry and bright for the holidays.
Opening Hours
The market is open from November 22, 2023 to January 5, 2024 and you can check it out any day between 11 am and 9 pm.
Cost of Entry
There are no entry fees; just walk in and enjoy the vibes.
How to Get There
Viktualienmarkt is easy to reach, super close to the underground and bus stops.
Just hop off the S-Bahn at Marienplatz station, and it’s just a quick 3-minute stroll from there.
Themed Christmas Markets in Munich
If you’re looking to spice up your Christmas market visits with something more creative and unusual than the typical German fare, the whimsical-themed markets of Munich have tons of fun options for spreading holiday cheer in unique ways.
The Fairytale Bazaar (Märchenbazar)
The Märchenbazar, or Fairytale Bazaar, gives an artsy twist to the regular Christmas market scene.
It’s over at Olympiapark, and instead of the usual holiday vibe, it’s got this grungy and gritty fairground going on, with tons of twinkling lights.
Special Attractions
You can grab some international (Indian and African) and Bavarian foods, as well as clothes, jewelry, and handmade crafts here.
Don’t miss out on their aromatic mulled wine and flavorful buttered chicken. It’s some of the best we’ve had in the area.
And it’s not just about shopping; they throw in live music, colorful tents, craft beer, and funky art.
For families, it’s a good deal. They’ve got puppet shows for kids in tents – perfect for escaping the winter weather.
Opening Hours
The Christmas Market runs from November 23 to December 29, 2023.
During regular weeks, they’re open from 4 pm to 11 pm, Monday through Thursday. On Fridays, hours go later to midnight for some extra fun.
Weekends have extended times, too, with Saturdays open from noon to midnight and Sundays going from 11am to 9pm.
What’s kinda cool is that they’re open on Christmas Day.
But note that from December 14th through the 29th, weekday hours shift to 2pm to 11pm (except on Christmas Eve when they’re closed).
Cost of Entry
You can visit the Fairytale Bazaar for free!
How to Get There
To hit up the Christmas markets at Olympia Park, just hop on U-Bahn line U3 and get off at Olympiaberg Station.
From there, it’s just a chill 3-minute walk to the market.
Pink Christmas Market
The Pink Christmas Market in Munich is like no other, brought to life by the city’s LGBTQI community.
Head over to Stephansplatz, right by Sendlinger Tor, for a dose of vibrant holiday spirit.
Special Attractions
Despite being a small spot, it’s decked out in vibrant pink and purple, creating a cozy vibe.
It’s not just for the LGBTQ+ crowd; everyone’s welcome to soak in the eccentric charm and entertainment.
We really felt how they celebrated love and individuality here during the winter season.
The Pink Christmas Market stands out for its lively evenings and live music.
It ditches the traditional festive scene, opting for a quirky setup with drag shows, disco Santa DJs, and other unique performances on a small stage.
You can also expect offbeat gifts, cocktails, and a mix of local goods here.
It’s definitely a spot to get your holiday shop on and get down with some festive flavor that’s anything but basic.
Opening Hours
Mark your calendar from November 27 to December 23, 2023, but keep an eye on the clock.
On weekdays, the fun kicks off at 4 pm until 10 pm, and on weekends, you can start enjoying the scene from 2 pm to 10 pm.
Cost of Entry
Feel free to visit the Pink Christmas market because they don’t require any entrance fees.
How to Get There
If you’re at the Central station in Munich (Hauptbahnhof), you can take bus line 18 or tram line 16 and get off at Sendlingtor.
Just walk about 5 minutes from there, and you’ll hit the market.
Or you can just grab a taxi straight from the central station to the market if you don’t feel like dealing with public transit. But fair warning, it’ll cost you.
Advent Spectacle and Medieval Christmas Market
If you’re over the usual Christmas markets, this Advent Spectacle and Medieval Christmas Fair at Wittelsbacherplatz is a breath of fresh air.
Special Attractions
This market is big on history and sustainability. We were impressed by the attention to historical detail everywhere we looked.
It’s like a village of timbered stalls, giving you serious Middle Ages vibes.
Walk around, and you’ll see folks in medieval get-ups with iron swords selling pieces of jewelry, old-school stuff, clay goblets, and some drinking horns.
You definitely gotta sip on some Drachenglut, Würzwein, and spiced wine while you wander around and take in the sights.
And don’t sleep on trying feuerzangenbowle, which is basically mulled wine amped up with rum and a flaming sugar cube – it’ll warm you right up.
Go nice with those sweet drinks by getting some fire-roasted Flammkuchen (smoky flatbread with bacon and sliced onion toppings) and grilled meats.
Opening Hours
The Advent Spectacle and Medieval Christmas Market in Munich is set to enchant you from November 27th to December 23rd.
The festivities will run daily from 11 am to 9 pm.
Cost of Entry
No fee is required to experience the enchanting medieval Christmas market in Munich!
How to Get There
The closest stations to the market are Marienplatz and Karlsplatz.
You can get off at either one and then walk around 10-13 minutes to reach the Christmas market. Or, you can just take a taxi if you want to avoid walking.
But heads up, there’s usually a lot of traffic around there, so a taxi might not save much time unless you don’t mind potentially getting stuck staring at brake lights for a while.
Christmas Markets in Historic Locations
Munich is home to many historic sites and landmarks that provide the perfect festive backdrops for Christmas markets.
You will not only experience the joy of Christmas markets here but also gain insights into the fascinating history of these timeless locations.
Christmas Market at Sendlinger Tor
The Christmas Market at Sendlinger Tor in Munich has been around since way back in 1886.
So, if you find yourself in Munich during the holiday season, this is definitely the place to start your Christmas market adventure.
Special Attractions
It’s set up at the city’s old gate that’s been standing since the 15th century, giving the market a cool historic vibe.
It may not be the biggest Christmas market, but it’s got its own charm.
With twinkling lights all around, it’s a nice spot to wander, check out different stalls, and pick up some unique stuff from around the globe.
They’ve got everything from Tyrolean Nativity scenes to jewelry, scented oils, and crafts from India – a bit different from the usual Christmas market scene.
You can also witness their daily Christmas music, getting you in the holiday spirit.
Plus, the neighborhood is decked out with cool bars and restaurants, so it’s a solid spot to chill for the evening, too.
As for us, we kinda just bar-hopped our way through Sendlinger Tor, grabbing some warm drinks like mulled wine and just catching Christmas vibes along the way.
Opening Hours
The Christmas market is open from November 27th through December 23rd.
Feel free to swing by at 10:30 in the morning and stay late until 9:30 at night. It’s a great spot to get all your holiday shopping done this season.
Cost of Entry
You are free to enter the Christmas market!
How to Get There
Getting to the Christmas market is pretty easy, depending on where you’re starting from.
If you’re at the Central station, just grab bus #18. It’ll take about 7 minutes to get you there.
Also, you can hop on tram line 16 if you’re from Karlsplatz station, which will get you there in just around 5 minutes.
Christmas Market at the Chinese Tower
The Christmas Market at the Chinese Tower in Munich is a cool spot right in the middle of the English Garden.
The vibe here is kinda romantic, perfect for a low-key date night in the park.
We always enjoy hanging out here during the holiday season. It’s a nice escape from the hustle and bustle of the city.
Special Attractions
The English Garden turns into a winter wonderland with snow and a nostalgic carousel during the Advent season.
This market is perfect for families. Your kids can hang out at Grandma’s reading hut, participate in a fairytale rally, or maybe hit the curling rink if they feel sporty.
You can even take a carriage ride from the Tower and explore the park in style – they roll from Thursday to Sunday starting at 1 PM.
This market also has traditional stalls with handmade stuff like crafts, jewelry, and local eats.
Opening Hours
From November 24th to December 23rd, the market is open every weekday from 12 noon to 8:30 pm.
And if you’re a weekend warrior, no worries – they’re open a bit earlier, starting at 11 am and keeping the fun going until 8:30 pm.
Cost of Entry
Feel free to stroll into this Christmas market; there’s no entry fee required.
How to Get There
The closest station to the English Garden is Giselastraße. Just hop on the U-Bahn and get off there.
If you’re starting at the Central station, it is best to take the #58 bus – it’ll get you there in about 20 minutes.
Or you can save a few bucks by catching the tram line 16, but you’ll have a bit more walking to the gardens.
And if you’re coming from Marienplatz station, take the U-Bahn to Freiheit and then grab the #54 bus. That’s probably the fastest way – only 8 mins or so on the bus.
Christmas Village in the Kaiserhof of the Residenz
The Christmas Village in the Kaiserhof of the Residenz is like a winter wonderland tucked into the biggest courtyard of Munich’s city palace.
We loved it here for its authentic medieval vibes and cozy atmosphere, away from the bustling markets.
Special Attractions
This Christmas market has an old-school vibe going on – it’s like a little farming village popped up with all these traditional craftspeople showing off their talents.
As you wander around, there are these workshops where you can peek in and see goldsmiths and glassblowers doing their thing right on the spot.
We really got hooked just staring at the glassblower as he spins and shapes a delicate ornament.
The Christmas Village has something for everyone.
There are puppet shows, a fairytale forest with animated stuff, and a special appearance by St. Nicholas on December 5th and 6th that you shouldn’t miss.
Oh, and it’s not just about fun – there’s this charity angle, too. They have this hut for the children’s hospice.
Making those donations indeed felt good, even just contributing a couple of euros to help bring some joy to the children’s hospital patients.
We can’t help but feel the holiday spirit rising while knowing we’re helping spread cheer.
And mark your calendars on December 22 because they’re giving away Christmas trees!
Now, if you’re into grub, they’ve got you covered. You can warm up with a steaming cup of mulled wine, potatoes, or creamy eggnog as you browse around.
Opening Hours
The Christmas market in the Kaiserhof is happening from November 23 to December 22, 2023, between 11 a.m. and 9 p.m. (except on November 26, when it’s closed).
Cost of Entry
Admission is free!
How to Get There
The place is super easy to get to – it’s right by the Odeonsplatz subway stop.
Just hop off there, and it’s only about a 4-minute walk over to the Residenz.
Festival-Inspired Christmas Market
The Christmas markets of Munich are beloved traditions, drawing visitors from around the world each year to soak in the festive atmosphere.
Adding to the classic offerings in recent years is a unique Christmas market inspired by traditional Bavarian cultural festivals.
The Tollwood Winter Festival
The Tollwood Winter Festival in Munich is not your average Christmas market; It is more like a party that lasts until 11:30 pm most of the night.
Special Attractions
It sprawls over half of the Oktoberfest grounds and packs in concert tents set up for live music and art tents full of handmade crafts and paintings.
You definitely don’t wanna miss some of the live acts they’ve got going on, either.
I’m talking speed painters, acrobats, and hula-hoop dancers showing off their skills.
And keep your eyes peeled for the daily fire shows – those always bring in huge crowds. They put on quite the spectacle with the flames dancing and all.
If you have time, wander around the festival to scope out the stands selling fair trade stuff, jewelry, classic German foods, and handmade goods.
Opening Hours
The market is up and running from November 23rd to December 31st, 2023.
As for the hours, they’re kicking things off every Monday from 2 pm to 10:30 pm. Then, from Tuesdays to Fridays, they extend until 11:30 pm.
Saturdays are an early bird special, open from 11 am to 11:30 pm. Sundays keep the good vibes going just until 10:30 pm.
Heads up, though, it’s taking a breather on November 26th for a public holiday.
Cost of Entry
Experience this festival-inspired Christmas market for free!
How to Get There
The closest spot to hop off for the Tollwood Winter Festival is Sendlinger Tor Station.
You’ve got the taxi option, but if you’re up for a stroll (and saving a few bucks), it’s just a breezy 17-minute walk.
Helpful Tips for Your Visit to the Munich Christmas Markets
If you’re heading to the Tollwood Winter Festival in Munich this winter, here are a few extra things to keep in mind:
Find Accessible Lodging
Tucked in the center of Munich’s old town, Hotel Torbräu has the perfect base for experiencing the city’s world-famous Christmas markets.
Its location means you’re just a quick 5 to 6-minute walk away from Marienplatz, where you can check out handmade crafts and fancy decorations at the traditional Christmas market.
The markets at Wittelsbacherplatz and Odeonsplatz are also just a stone’s throw away, filling the air with the cozy scents of mulled wine and almonds.
Even though it’s right in the hustle and bustle, Torbräu somehow keeps things chill, offering a peaceful vibe that’s perfect for recharging between your Christmas market adventures.
And they’re not skimping on the extras either – think onsite parking, wi-fi access, and a workstation.
Weather and What to Wear
Munich winters can be quite cold during the winter season, with an average temperature around 1°C (33.8°F).
There may be snow at the outdoor markets, so be sure to pack winter boots, thick socks, hats, gloves, and warm coats.
It can still get quite cold standing outside for long periods, so we advise you to bring an extra layer or two.
Avoid Crowds
Munich has some of the most popular Christmas markets in Germany, and they attract enormous crowds, especially on weekends and the week before Christmas.
For a more comfortable experience, visit weekday mornings because they are less busy.
Use Public Transportation
You should know that parking is limited and pricey. Save money while hopping to every Christmas market by taking Munich’s excellent subway system.
Grabbing a multi-day public transport pass is a wallet-friendly move, too.
> Get This CityTourCard Munich For Public Transport & Discounts
Keep Your Belongings Safe
As with any crowded tourist destination, you should be alert and keep belongings like wallets and phones secure.
It is also essential to stay away from poorly lit areas alone at night.
Smart Spending
With tempting food and gifts at every turn, costs add up quickly! Set and stick to a Christmas market budget.
Also, you’ll wanna have some cash on you when shopping around because some sellers don’t take cards.
Get Into the Holiday Spirit at Munich’s Festive Markets
Munich’s Christmas markets have it all – the classic and the creative.
From the traditional German market in Marienplatz to the trippy Fairytale Bazaar with fire dancers and funky art, there is nostalgic charm and unique flair around every corner.
Most Christmas markets are running from late November through Christmas Eve, so there’s ample time to explore. So head to Munich, and let yourself be delighted by the winter magic!
