10 Exciting Christmas Markets In Hamburg Germany 2023
There are lots of fun activities to enjoy in Hamburg during the winter, and visiting the city’s cheerful Christmas markets tops the list.
But with over 30 markets spread across the city, fitting them all during a short visit to Hamburg can be challenging.
As long-time Hamburg lovers who make an annual tradition of hitting nearly all the Christmas markets there, we’ve honed in on the best markets that truly capture the holiday spirit.
In this guide, we’ll highlight the top Christmas markets in Hamburg, the best food and drinks to try, fun activities, popular souvenirs to shop for, and some tips for visiting these magical markets.
We’ll cover all you need to know for a festive and hassle-free trip to Hamburg this holiday season.
Christmas Markets In Hamburg
When winter comes to Hamburg, the city lights up with Christmas markets.
The city has a great mix of historic and lively, fun-filled modern markets for travelers to enjoy during the Christmas season.
There are traditional markets focused on arts, crafts, and gifts, as well as more modern ones with unique themes or amusement rides and live music.
You can even shop for handmade decorations while enjoying the special feeling of a German Christmas.
Here are the exciting Christmas Markets in Berlin that you should not miss:
Unique Christmas Markets in Hamburg
Hamburg is home to some of Germany’s most-themed Christmas markets.
During the festive season, the city transforms into a winter wonderland, with unique Weihnachtsmärkte popping up across neighborhoods.
These specialty markets offer not just Christmas shopping and decorations but fun and immersive experiences you won’t find anywhere else.
Wander the stalls and enjoy the sights, sounds, smells, and tastes of the season at these one-of-a-kind destinations.
Winterwald in Hamburg
Winterwald in Hamburg is a fantastic Christmas market between the City Hall and Hamburg Central train station.
Even though it’s right in the center, Winterwald gives you this feeling like you’re in a winter forest with its traditional wooden stalls and all the twinkling pine trees spreading everywhere.
It is pretty magical, especially at night, with all the lights and the festive vibe.
They’ve got stalls selling all sorts of festive delights – fries, gluhwein, waffles, and hot chocolates, perfect for strolling around.
Oh, and don’t worry about the crowds; there’s more room to move around in this market than in other Christmas Markets in the City center.
Opening Hours
The Winterwald Christmas market in Hamburg is going down from November 20th to December 23rd, so you’ve got a solid window to check it out.
The action starts at 11 am and continues until 9 pm, giving you plenty of time to soak in the festive vibes. We loved staying late to see all the lights.
Just a heads up, they’re taking a breather on Christmas Day, so plan accordingly.
Cost of Entry
You can visit this Christmas market for free!
How to Get There
As for the spot, it’s all happening around the Mönckebergbrunnen and Gerhart-Hauptmann-Platz.
It’s super easy to get there; just hop on the U-Bahn line U3 to Mönckebergstraße.
Then, it’s just a quick 3-minute walk to reach the Christmas market.
Santa Pauli Christmas Market
The Santa Pauli Christmas Market in Hamburg is right smack in the Spielbudenplatz.
It’s not your typical festive setup—it’s more like the “horniest Christmas market,” they say.
This spot is awesome if you’re after a lively scene that breaks away from the usual routine.
It’s a mix of dazzling cheeky stalls and themed entertainment. There are regular Christmas stalls, but they spice things up with erotic gift ideas.
They’ve also got a strip tent with free shows every hour. It’s definitely adults-only territory.
For a chill time, we preferred hanging at the Winter Deck, where there’s a fireplace and live music for that cozy feel.
Don’t forget to check out their open-air art gallery and catch some cool performances to get into the holiday vibe. Just hit up their website for more information on live shows.
There’s this cool spot with loads of drink choices, like mulled wine and punch. You can even visit Santa’s mulled wine pharmacy, where you can make your own mulled wine.
So, whether you’re flying solo or with your buddies, it’s got something for you.
And yeah, some parts might raise an eyebrow, but it’s all about the shock factor.
Opening Hours
The market runs from November 13, 2023 to December 23, 2023.
They’re open from 4 pm to 11 pm on Sunday through Wednesday. And then, on Thursdays, they go all out and stay open till midnight.
Oh, and don’t forget Fridays and Saturdays – that’s when the Christmas market kicks in at 1 pm and keeps the vibe going till 1 am.
Cost of Entry
Feel free to check out the Christmas market without spending a dime.
How to Get There
To hit up the Santa Pauli Christmas market in Hamburg, just hop on the U3 Ubahn line and cruise your way to the St. Pauli stop.
But if you’re rolling with the Sbahn, catch a ride on lines S1, S2, or S3, and stop at Reeperbahn station.
Once you’re there, it’s just a short 6 to 7-minute stroll to soak in the festive vibes at the market.
Winter Pride Christmas Market
The Winter Pride in St. Georg, just a short hop from the Central Station, is one of the unique Christmas markets in Hamburg.
You can’t miss it – just look for the vibrant pink and red decorations. There’s the absence of the usual Christmas tunes in the market.
But that’s part of Winter Pride’s charm—we loved how it breaks away from the basic Christmas market scene that you see everywhere else.
Also, the market doesn’t go for the typical square setup; it’s more like a street gathering with a friendly and open vibe.
Winter Pride may be a bit smaller than the other markets, but there are food and drink stalls here that you can enjoy with LGBTQ+ flair.
Make sure to try their mulled wine and other delicacies like potatoes. Also, don’t forget to check out some fabulous jewelry and artwork there.
Things really heat up in the evening, especially on Fridays and Saturdays when DJs turn it into a lively party. So, don’t miss that out!
Opening Hours
Winter Pride runs from November 20 to December 23, opening from 12 noon to 10 pm, Sunday to Thursday.
Then, they stay up until midnight on Fridays and Saturdays.
Cost of Entry
This Christmas market is free to enter, so come on down and soak up the holiday cheer!
How to Get There
Hop on any train heading to Hamburg Hauptbahnhof, and from there, just take a quick 5-minute stroll to Lange Reihe—the Christmas market hub.
Christmas Markets in Hamburg With Historic Significance
Hamburg has many charming old Christmas markets tucked into downtown plazas and squares.
Though styles and offerings may have changed over the years, the enchanting atmosphere of these traditional Christmas markets remains.
There is perhaps no better place than Hamburg’s Christmas markets to soak up history while embracing the holiday spirit.
Christmas Market in Rathausmarkt
The Christmas Market at Rathausmarkt in Hamburg is a cool winter spot at the oldest square in front of the town hall.
What’s great is that this market has been around since the late 19th century.
We can say that this is one of the neatest Christmas markets in Hamburg.
And they’re all about being eco-friendly and fair trade, selling cookware, glassware, wood carvings, Christmas decorations, handmade toys, and even jewelry.
Food is everywhere, with donuts, bratwurst, fried potato cakes, and roasted almonds. Our favorite was the gingerbread – so fresh and delicious.
Make sure to visit Spezialitätengasse, a street just for special eats, which adds to the whole festive vibe.
And, of course, don’t miss out on their hot chocolate and mulled wine from the town hall market that everyone seems to be into.
We guarantee you’ll find amusement all around at the Christmas market
For the kiddos, there’s this toy street, Spielzeuggase, with a big model railway running through the stalls.
It’s not just a shopping place; it’s like a Christmas wonderland for everyone.
And right in the middle of the market, there’s this old-school merry-go-round that you and your kids shouldn’t miss.
Oh, and heads up, there’s this Flying Santa Claus who pops in regularly with his sleigh, and he does it at 4pm, 6pm, and 8pm. It’s a spectacle, honestly.
Nighttime is when it gets really magical, with all the stalls lit up, especially against the big, dazzling Christmas tree.
But note that this Christmas market can get pretty packed. It is best to visit on a weekday when it’s not as crazy busy.
Opening Hours
The market is happening from November 27 to December 23, 2023, and it’s open every day from 11 am until 9 pm.
Cost of Entry
There is no need to worry about shelling out any cash to get into the Christmas market – it’s free entry, no tickets necessary.
How to Get There.
The easiest way to reach the Christmas market is by taking a U-Bahn and getting off at Rathaus station.
It was so convenient for us – just a short 2-minute stroll to reach the Christmas market.
Christmas Market at St Michael’s Church
Check out St. Michael’s Church Christmas Market – it’s been a tradition in Hamburg since 1922.
This market isn’t just about shopping; it’s also a cultural experience perfect for families and friends.
This is probably one of the smallest Christmas markets in Hamburg, but it’s got this super chill vibe, and we really had the best time here.
And the cool thing is you not only get to check out the market but also visit the church and snag some historical tidbits about it.
There’s a bunch of stalls (over 100, actually) with fashion and crafts stuff, plus some tasty treats like crepes and mulled wine that we look forward to every year.
Also, make sure to watch out and enjoy some musical concerts happening around the church.
Opening Hours
Drop by on December 1, 2023, anytime between 3 pm and 7 pm. Or on December 2-3, 2023, between 11 am and 7 pm.
Cost of Entry
Visiting St. Michael’s Church Christmas Market won’t cost you a dime.
It’s a fun and free activity, so don’t miss out on the holiday spirit with a dash of history that this market brings.
How to Get There
There are many ways to get to St Michael’s Church Christmas Market.
You could hop on the S1, S2, or S3 S-Bahn lines and hop off at Stadthausbrücke – super easy.
Or, if you’re feeling the bus vibe, just snag one and jump off at Michaeliskirche. Take your pick, no stress.
The Christmas Market at the Petri Church
The Christmas Market at the Petri Church in Hamburg, right by the city’s oldest standing church, gives you this chill Christmas escape.
It is a big deal, mixing history, magic, and festive fun. They’ve got over 200 dazzling fir trees, making it like a Christmas forest.
You can’t miss it with those cute Scandinavian Nordic huts where you can find some art stuff and quality toys for your kids.
My friend found the cutest handmade stuffed animal for her daughter there.
The market also has these old-school dioramas that both kids and adults will undoubtedly love. They’re like scenes from classic fairy tales with moving dolls.
You’re also in for a cozy vibe with mulled wine, sausages, and other local and international treats.
Opening Hours
The market’s on from November 23rd to December 30th, 2023, and its schedule is all set for the week.
If you’re planning to visit, they’re open from 10 am to 6:30 pm on Mondays, Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Fridays.
Wednesdays have a bit of an extension, closing at 7 pm.
Saturdays offer a solid window from 10 am to 5 pm, and on Sundays, the market gets an early start at 9 am, wrapping up at 8 pm.
So, whether you’re planning a midweek visit or a weekend outing, you’ve got tons of time to soak in the festive vibes at St. Petri Church.
Cost of Entry
You can visit the St. Petri Church Christmas Market in Hamburg for free.
How to Get There
If you’re heading to the Christmas Market at St. Petri Church, the U-Bahn is your best bet.
Just hop off at Rathaus station, and it’s a quick and easy 5-minute walk to the market.
Christmas Markets With Special Attractions
The Christmas markets of Hamburg are a beloved annual tradition, attracting both locals and visitors from around the world.
In addition to the classic Christmas market experience, Hamburg has several special attractions that add extra magic and wonder to the season.
Here are some of the Christmas markets in Hamburg that will surely make your holidays festive:
White Magic on the Jungfernsteig
The White Magic on the Jungfernsteig, also known as Weisser Zauber Christmas, is this cool winter spot right by the Binnenalster Lake.
Being by Binnenalster Lake adds some magic, with lights reflecting everywhere.
We can definitively say from experience that it is one of the nicest Christmas markets in Hamburg.
It’s a pretty popular Christmas market, mainly because of its cool appearance.
It rocks a white theme with star-topped tents where you can snag some Mutzenmandeln, Pretzels, Fire Tong punch, and mulled wine to keep you warm.
If you have your family and friends with you, don’t miss out on their huge and old Ferris wheel from 1899, giving off major nostalgic vibes.
And for an adventure, you can even hop on a short boat ride around the lake.
One of our favorite parts was the huge Christmas tree on a pontoon, or what they call an Alster fir tree, all decked out for Christmas.
To complete your visit, witness the weekend Christmas parade that kicks up the festive vibe.
So, when you need a break from the city craziness, swing by the Weisserzauber Christmarket at Jungfernstieg.
Opening Hours
You can swing by White Magic at the Jungfernsteig Christmas market between November 23rd and December 29th.
They’re open every day from Monday to Sunday. On weekdays (Monday to Thursday), you can soak up the festive vibes from 11 am to 9 pm.
Fridays give you a bit more time to revel, with doors open until 10 pm.
Saturdays follow suit with the extended hours until 10 pm, and Sundays keep it chill until 9 pm.
Now, mark your calendars for a brief pause in the holiday hustle – they’re taking a breather on November 24th, 25th, and 26th.
So, if you’re planning a visit on those dates, you might want to shuffle your plans a bit.
Cost of Entry
The entry to White Magic on Jungfernsteig is totally free.
How to Get There
To hit up the Christmas market, hop on U-Bahn lines U1, U2, or U4. Then, swing by Rathaus station – it’s a short 7-minute walk to the market from there.
If strolling isn’t your thing, grab a taxi for a quick 3-minute ride. Just a heads-up, though: taxis can hit your wallet a bit.
Christmas Market on the Fleetinsel
The Fleet Christmas Market in Hamburg, right at the Michaelis bridge, has this amazing maritime vibe between the Alster and Elbe rivers.
The enchanting canals all around the market and the presence of vintage ships give a unique nautical atmosphere.
The market itself on Fleetinsel is not massive, but it’s charming, especially with the Advent lights reflecting in the canal.
They’ve also got this carousel perfect for families with kids.
We’d say Fleet Christmas Market is a nice break from the city buzz.
You’ll mostly find drink stalls here. So don’t miss out on their mulled wine, and they have this thing called feuerzangenbowle.
Plus, there’s a covered area, so you can enjoy yourself even if the weather decides to act up.
Luckily, the weather didn’t concern us, but it’s nice to have that option.
Opening Hours
From November 27th to December 23rd, 2023, the market will keep the good vibes rolling seven days a week.
Every Monday, their doors swing open at noon and stay that way until 9 pm.
On Fridays and Saturdays, they’re giving you a bit more time to savor the holidays, staying open until 10 pm.
Cost of Entry
The entry cost for Fleetinsel Christmas Market is free. So, just swing by and soak up the festive vibes without spending a dime.
How to Get There
The Christmas market is close to the Stadthausbrücke S-Bahn station and Rödingsmarkt U-Bahn station, so it’s pretty convenient.
Just hop on S1 or S3 and get off at Stadthausbrücke, or take U3 and stop at Rödingsmarkt.
From there, it’s just a quick 1 to 2-minute walk to the Christmas market.
Christmas Market in Ottensen
The Ottensen Christmas Market near Altona station is a perfect spot for winter vibes.
The whole market lights up with sparkly lights and Christmas trees, creating a chill village scene on Ottenser Hauptstraße.
It’s a family-friendly vibe Christmas market that has something for everyone – there’s a carousel, a puppet show for the kids, and even hands-on stuff for the kiddos, like baking and crafting.
Oh, and don’t miss St. Nick rolling in on December 6th, handing out small goodies to the little ones.
What sets Ottensen apart is its trendy vibe. It’s a mix of classic German vibes and a touch of international flair.
You can munch on different international products here, like Estonian crafts or some African bling.
You’ll also find some awesome stalls dishing out the tastiest festive treats and drinks, such as empanadas, almonds, vegan currywurst, mulled wine, and the famous Feuerzangenbowle.
So, if you’re down for a Christmas market that’s a bit more than usual, Ottensen is where it’s at during the winter season.
Opening Hours
From November 27th to December 23rd, the Christmas market in Otenssen is open for a festive experience.
You can swing by any day of the week, Monday through Sunday.
On weekdays, Monday to Wednesday, they’re serving up the seasonal vibes from 11 in the morning until 9 at night.
On Thursdays and Fridays, they keep the holiday spirit going a bit longer, closing at 10 pm.
And for the weekend warriors, Saturdays are open until 10 pm, while Sundays wind down a bit earlier, wrapping things up at 8 pm.
Cost of Entry
Entry is on the house, so feel free to stroll and soak up the holiday vibes without digging into your pockets.
How to Get There
The closest spot to the Christmas market is Altona station. Hop on either S-Bahn S1 or S3 to get there.
From the station, it’s just a short 3-minute walk.
Christmas market on Spitalerstraß
The Spitalerstraße Christmas Market in Hamburg is like a winter wonderland smack in the city center, making it a cool spot for a pre-Christmas hangout.
Also known as the City Market, it’s got this mix of old-school charm and modern vibes that sets a unique scene.
Don’t miss this one out because it has one of Hamburg’s biggest walk-in Christmas trees. If you’re into eye-catching stuff, this is your jam.
The market is not your typical Christmas market setup. Instead of being all over the place, it lines up along this one street.
The stalls are rocking a classic Hanseatic brick look, blending right into the busy shopping scene.
But it’s not just about looks. The market buzzes with artisans and foodies dishing out everything from traditional bites to some out-of-the-box treats.
Opening Hours
Mark your calendar from November 23rd to December 30th, 2023, and note the hours – 11 am to 9 pm (food stands stay open till 11:00 pm).
Heads up, though: Closed on November 26th, Christmas Eve, Christmas Day, and Boxing Day.
Cost of Entry
You can visit the Spitalerstraße Christmas Market for free!
How to Get There
Getting there is easy. Hop on U1, U2, U3, U4, S1, S2, S3, S21, or S31 to Hauptbahnhof train station.
Hamburg’s perfect for a laid-back stroll, so after that, you can take a short 5-minute walk to the Christmas market.
Must-Know Tips for a Festive Adventure to Christmas Markets in Hamburg
Christman markets in Hamburg are among the most popular ones in Germany.
From the historic Christmas Market in Rathausmarkt to the Santa Pauli event held in the red light district along the Reeperbahn, Hamburg’s Christmas markets exude holiday spirit around every corner.
If you’re planning a festive winter getaway to experience these markets, there are a few tips to know that will ensure your adventure goes off without a hitch.
Bundle Up
Hamburg can get quite cold in the winter. With the markets located outside, be sure to layer up and bring warm accessories like hats, gloves, and scarves.
Packing thermal underwear and thick socks will go a long way towards keeping you comfortable while you explore.
Look For an Accessible Place to Stay
When you’re in Hamburg for the holidays, you’ll want to snag a spot close to the Christmas markets for the real festive vibe.
Tortue Hamburg is a solid choice, just a short 7-minute walk from Rathausmarkt, where over 100 vendors set up shop around the historic Hamburg Rathaus building.
The place itself offers modern apartments with all the essentials – living areas and WiFi.
Plus, the 24-hour reception is a lifesaver for those late-night market sessions.
Besides the prime market location, it’s got your back with in-room kitchens for some DIY meals between market rounds.
Perfect for grabbing fresh goodies from the stalls and kicking back in your own space.
You can also explore other markets, such as Fleetinsel, St. Michael’s Church, and Jungfernstieg, as they are located close to the hotel.
So, with Tortue Hamburg as your holiday lodging, you’re basically living in the heart of Hamburg’s Christmas magic.
Use Public Transportation
Hamburg has many main Christmas markets in the city center, along with many smaller neighborhood markets.
Using the city’s extensive public transportation system is the easiest way to visit multiple markets without dealing with traffic or parking.
The train and metro stations are centrally located and connect you to all the major market hubs.
Consider purchasing a day pass for unlimited travel.
> Get This Hamburg City Card with Free Public Transportation
Stay Up-to-Date on Transportation
Public transportation is usually very efficient and reliable in Hamburg.
However, be aware that schedules and routes may change, especially during the busy holiday season.
Check online or at station agent booths for up-to-date route maps, timetables, and notifications about construction, closures, or detours that could impact your travel.
Knowing this information ahead of time will make navigating between Christmas markets much smoother.
Don’t Overplan Your Itinerary
Part of the magic of Hamburg’s Christmas markets is letting yourself get lost amongst the glittering lights and festive displays. Don’t overplan!
Leave room for serendipitous discoveries down picturesque side streets and market lanes.
A Can’t-Miss Winter Wonderland Adventure Awaits In Hamburg
Hamburg’s Christmas markets are pretty cool as there are over 30 of them spread all over the city, so it’s not hard to catch the holiday vibes.
From the old-school Rathausmarkt market to the modern Santa Pauli market, there’s something for everyone.
You’ve also got options like Fleetinsel with its nautical theme, Winter Pride that’s LGBTQ-friendly, and Winterwald, which feels like you’re walking in a winter forest.
And they’ve got all sorts of stuff here – artsy things, crafts, gifts, decorations, and of course, loads of food and drinks.
Plus, getting around is easy with public transport, but strolling through Hamburg’s streets is a treat in itself.
Hamburg indeed turns into this winter wonderland that totally captures the holiday spirit.
The variety and quality of the markets here are top-notch – definitely worth checking out for a festive vibe.
