Best Christmas Markets in Munich (2024): A Complete Guide

Looking for the best Christmas Markets in Munich? If you’re visiting Munch this December, you’re in luck because there are so many amazing Christmas Markets all around the city! Here is a guide to the all the best Munich Christmas Markets, along with tips to visit!

I never really saw what the big deal was about Christmas Markets, because there aren’t that many in the US (and most of the ones here are meh). But when I finally made it over to Europe to experience a true European Christmas Market, I finally got all the hype.

Y’all, the Christmas Markets in Europe are on a whole different level, and some of the best of the best are located in Munich. Going to the Christmas Markets is one of the best things about visiting Munich in winter.

The Munich Christmas Markets are absolutely magical, with plenty of festive vibes, delicious food, and tons of vendors selling unique handcrafted goods. There are so many markets in the city that there’s a Christmas Market for everyone – whether you’re looking for something traditional, something offbeat, or even something in between.

One of the coolest things about all the markets here is that many of them are set up at some of the main attractions in the city. So, basically you can visit them while ticking off some of the top things to do on your Munich itinerary!

There are so many markets, and so little time. So, if you’re looking for the best Christmas Markets in Munich, then you’re in luck! Keep on reading for the top Christmas Markets to hit up, along with everything you need to know about visiting, including what to eat, drink, and buy!

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A Few Things to Know Before Visiting the Munich Christmas Markets…

• Pay attention to opening dates: All of the markets have different opening and closing dates, so pay attention before planning your trip. In general, most of them open the last week of December and stay open until the days leading up to Christmas.

• Most of the markets close by Christmas: While opening dates vary between markets, many of them close before Christmas, so plan accordingly.
  
• Bring cash: While there are some vendors that accept credit cards, most are cash only so be sure to have some cash on hand. I like to take out Euros at the airport ATM upon landing. Avoid currency exchange booths, as those have the most unfavorable rates.
  
• Wear layers: It’s pretty chilly in Munich during Christmas market season, especially at night. However, I found that indoor places such as museums and restaurants liked to blast their heater and it got HOT. Be sure to pack layers that you can take on and off quickly!

• There’s a deposit for those gluhwein mugs: So technically, you’ll pay a few extra Euros (usually €3-4) as a deposit for those gluhwein mugs, so you’ll find yourself paying more than the sign says. You can take them back to get your money back, or you can just keep the mugs and take them home – they make excellent souvenirs!

• Bring a tote: If you plan to do lots of shopping, definitely bring a tote. You won’t have to juggle a ton of smaller bags (and it’s better for the environment). Carry a packable tote bag with you (I like the ones from Baggu because they’re super sturdy and durable) to have in case you end up buying allll the things (as you likely will be tempted to!)
  
• Learn a few basic German phrases: While some of the vendors at the Christmas Markets speak English, not all do so it’s helpful to know a handful of basic German phrases. Either way, it’s always appreciated by the locals, so practice a bit on Duolingo before your trip, or have Google Translate handy.

Best Christmas Markets in Munich to Visit in 2024

There are tons of Christmas Markets all over the city of Munich! There’s a market for everyone, each with a different vibe and feel.

The sheer amount of markets can be a bit overwhelming, so make a plan! You won’t get to all of them, so prioritize the ones you really want to go to, and go from there. 

If you want to visit some of the best Munich Christmas Markets in one go and have someone else do the planning for you, you can book this highly-recommended Munich Christmas Market Food Tour. You’ll visit some of the top markets in the city, and taste the best traditional food, with all tastings included.

In any case, here are my picks for the best Christmas Markets in Munich:

Munich Christkindlmarkt in Marienplatz square

The Christmas Market at Marienplatz is Munich’s original market, as well as the largest. It’s also one of the largest and oldest in Europe, dating back to the 14th century. 

There are over 130 vendors set up here, selling everything from handicrafts, traditional snacks and sweet treats, gluhwein, and more. There’s also live holiday music from the balcony of the town hall, carolers under the Christmas tree, and various craft workshops for kids.

It’s hands-down one of the best Christmas Markets in Munich, as well as the city’s most popular Christmas market. Expect to see crowds here at all hours of the day. 

However, you can’t do much wrong with the setting, with the twinkling Christmas tree standing in front of the  Gothic facade of the Neus Rathaus. If you only have time to visit only one Munich Christmas Market, make it this one. It is simply stunning! 

The market also spills over into a few of the side streets, as well as the courtyard of the Neus Rathaus, which is a good place to duck into to escape from the crowds. There are a handful of booths here, as well as a post Christkindlmarkt post office, where you can get your letters and postcards stamped with a special Christkindlmarkt stamp!

While you’re here, be sure to also climb up to the top of the tower Peterskirche. You’ll have to climb up 300 steps, but you’ll get an amazing view of Marienplatz and the Christmas Market below. It’s especially gorgeous around dusk, when you can start to see the lights come up, and the Christmas tree sparkle!

Location: Marienplatz
2024 Dates: November 25-December 24

Sternenplatzl at Rindermarkt

Technically, this is a part of the Marienplatz Christmas Market, but is located a few blocks away. Many people don’t know it’s there, so it’s slightly less crowded with a more open feel. 

It’s located on Rindermarkt, which is one of the oldest streets in Munich. You won’t be able to miss it as you’ll spot the towering Christmas pyramid.

Be sure to visit at night as it’s got an especially magical feel. The market ’s surrounded by trees with strands of twinkling star lights hanging overhead. You can also see Neus Rathaus over in the distance, and it’s an especially beautiful sight with the lights.

In addition, it’s home to one of the largest nativity displays in Germany, with a life-sized nativity scene. 

They also have gluhwein sold in super cute boot-shaped mugs. I walked around from Marienplatz until I saw people holding them, and then looked for the nearest gluhwein stall. 

Location: Rindermarkt
2024 Dates: November 25-December 24

Christmas Village in the Kaiserhof of the Residenz (Weihnachtsdorf im Kaiserhof der Residenz)

When looking for the best Munich Christmas Markets, you can’t do much better than this one. It’s set up in the courtyard of a royal palace, which is pretty much what Christmas dreams are made of.

Nestled within the walls of the Residenz, the largest city palace in Germany, this market is straight up transformed into an actual mini Bavarian Christmas village. It’s on the smaller side, with a cozy vibe with lots of charm.

You’ll find a variety of vendors selling traditional handicrafts and handmade ornaments, and there’s even craft workshops here. There’s also lots of delicious food and snacks, which was some of the best among the Christmas Markets in Munich.

The village also has animatronic displays depicting various holiday and nativity scenes, which can be cute or creepy depending on how you look at it. There’s also a 30 foot tall Christmas pyramid here as well. 

Location: Munich Residenz, enter from Residenzstrasse near Odeonsplatz
2024 dates: November 18-December 22

Christmas Market at the Chinese Tower (Chinesischer Turm)

The sprawling English Garden (or Englischer Garten) is Munich’s largest city park, and one of the largest urban parks in the world – it’s larger than New York City’s Central Park! And right in the middle of it is another one of the best Christmas Markets in Munich.

The market is located near the Chinese Tower (a wooden pagoda-style tower that *ahem* doesn’t look very Chinese lol), and has sort of a secluded feel compared to all of the other markets in the city.

It’s got a woody and romantic vibe and I loved it because you’re in the midst of nature, surrounded by trees. It feels so peaceful here, and is a nice way to escape the crowds at all the other Christmas Markets..

You’ll find all the food and handicrafts that you’ll find at other markets (and all the gluhwein, of course), but you’re basically coming for the vibe, with cute wooden huts and whimsy facades. There’s also a carousel, a curling rink, and they even offer horse-drawn carriage rides on the weekends.

Location: Chinese Tower (Chinesischer Turm) at the English Garden (Englischer Garten)
2024 dates: November 27-December 23

Winter Magic at Viktualienmarkt

Winter Magic at Viktualienmarkt is one of the best Munich Christmas Markets for foodies.

Viktualienmarkt, the city’s open-air market, started as a farmer’s market back in the 19th century but has evolved into much more over the years. You’ll find a plethora of fresh produce, gourmet food products, traditional bites, colorful flowers, and more.

During the holiday season, the market gets a festive makeover and transforms into a Christmas Market. It’s a fantastic place to shop for souvenirs, as you’ll find a variety of local food items, along with some really beautiful handcrafted Christmas decorations and ornaments.

Hopefully you’re feeling hungry, because you’ll find plenty of amazing food here in the food stalls and restaurants. They also have gluhwein and other traditional drinks (which will also keep you warm), and a beer garden that has a nativity scene.

Standing in the middle of the market is a giant Bavarian Maypole, which depicts various scenes of life in Munich. It’s such a unique sight, and you can’t miss it.

Location: Vikutalienmarkt (near Marienplatz)
2024 Dates: November 27-December 24

Märchenbazar (The Fairytale Bazaar)

I ended up stumbling upon Märchenbazar because it was down the street from my hotel, and it was actually the first Christmas Market that I visited in Munich (which was also my first European Christmas Market)!

I really enjoyed this market, which is held in Olympiapark, home of the 1972 Summer Olympics. It’s such a unique market, with a circus theme. You’ll find tents, tons of twinkly string lights, and plenty of colorful art. 

There’s an international array of foods offered here, that’s not your traditional Christmas Market fare, from ramen, butter chicken, and vegan doner. 

It’s also got an artsy vibe and has some unique artisan goods for sale, from leather items, handmade jewelry, and wooden artwork.

It’s also one of the few markets that are open after Christmas, and on Christmas itself.

Location: Olympiapark South
2024 Dates: November 28-December 29

Munich Airport Christmas and Winter Market (Weihnachts und Wintermarkt)

Here’s the cool thing about arriving in Munich – you can go to a Christmas Market as soon as you step off the plane because there’s one right at the airport!

The market is located in the covered space in between terminals, and I passed through it as I made my way towards the train station. It’s not a huge market but it’s got plenty of holiday cheer!

You’ll find the stalls selling lots of traditional food, gluhwein, and souvenirs (although I heard most of the merchandise here is cheap and mass produced, and that you should do your shopping at one of the other Christmas Markets in Munich). 

There’s also an ice rink for skating and curling, live music, Santa visits, and other events such as Advent wreath tying.

I wouldn’t make a special trip just for the market, but it’s well worth a visit right after your land, or to kill time before your flight takes off. 

Location: Munich Airport MAC-Forum (under the roof)
2024 Dates: November 14-December 29

More Christmas Markets to Visit in Munich

So many markets, so little time! I had limited time in Munich, so sadly I couldn’t get to all of the ones I wanted to visit. Here are some of the markets that I also had on my list but didn’t make it to:

Christkindlmarkt at Sendlinger Tor (2024 Dates TBA): This Christmas Market takes place at the old gates of the city, and dates back to 1886. It’s got a bit of a multi-cultural feel, with international goods and nativity scenes from Tyrol and Peru. The vendors here sell extravagant baubles, ceramics, scented candles, Indian handicrafts, and more.

The Medieval Market at Wittelsbacher Platz (2024 dates: November 25-December 23): Here’s a unique spin on a Christmas Market, with a medieval twist! This is another one that is supposed to be super fun. You’ll take a step back to the Middle Ages at this market, with vendors dressed in period costumes, gluhwein served in clay goblets. You can even eat Medieval cuisine and shop for ancient handicrafts! 

The Tollwood Winter Festival (2024 dates: November 26-December 31l: This one is the hipster/alternative market – think organic food, unique handmade goods, and art installations. It’s got a bit of a party vibe as well, which makes sense since it is held on the same grounds as the Oktoberfest festival. It’s also one of the few markets that stays open past Christmas.

The Pink Market (2024 Dates: November 25-December 23): This kitschy market is the city’s LGBTQ Christmas Market, and is super inclusive and fun! You’ll find pink everythinggg and glitter here, as well as drag queens, and plenty of cocktails. I ran out of time to make it down here, but I’ve heard that it is super fun! 

What to Eat and Drink at the Munich Christmas Markets

I don’t know about you, but I think the best part about Christmas Markets (aside from the vibes) is the food!

There are sooo many yummy things to eat and drink at all the Christmas Markets in town, so be sure to leave extra room in your stomach to try them all!

Glühwein: AKA mulled wine, which is a staple of any Christmas Market. It’s basically hot wine that’s mixed with a variety of warming spices. Honestly, the gluhwein I had in Germany is simply the best, and I haven’t found any that’s on the same level (the ones in Prague and Quebec City came the closest though). It really is the best thing to have when you’re freezing your butt off (it keeps your hands nice and warm!) and comes in the cutest mugs.

Kinderpunsch: A warm non-alcoholic drink made with a variety of juices and spices, which makes a good alternative to Gluhwein if you don’t drink alcohol.

Bratwurst: If you go to Germany and don’t have bratwurst at least once, did you even go to Germany? You’ll find bratwurst at the markets all over town, and you can’t go wrong. You’ve gotta have one with a ton of sauerkraut piled on top.

Weisswurst: A white German sausage that is a Munich specialty. It’s usually eaten without the skin.   

Currywurst: German sausages slathered in a curry-flavored sauce. I almost didn’t try it because it sounded so weird, but everyone told me to try it and I’m glad I did! Be sure to get it with a side of fries to soak up allllll the sauce!

Gebrannte Mandeln: When walking through the Christmas Markets, you’ll likely catch a whiff of these roasted almonds and immediately be tempted to get some. The almonds are covered in a candied coating of brown sugar and cinnamon – so yummy!

Lebküchen: These are the adorable German gingerbread cookies that you’ll see everywhere. They are usually adorned with colorful icing spelling out various German phrases and make the perfect souvenirs as well.

Streusel: Another traditional German dessert that’s a must-try! There’s all kinds of streusel at the Christmas Markets, from the traditional apple, chocolate, raspberry, and more.

Käsespätzle: Egg noodles covered in cheese and crispy fried onions. It’s basically like German mac and cheese and SO good!

Kartoffelpuffer: These potato pancakes are one of the staple dishes of German Christmas Markets, and taste kinda like hash browns. Traditionally, they are served with applesauce, but you’ll find a variety of sweet and savory toppings.

Apfelkücherl: Deep fried apples with various spices – kinda like apple donuts!

Feuerzangenbowle: An alcoholic drink in which a roam-soaked sugarloaf is lit on fire and drips into gluhwein. Careful though, these are STRONG!

What to Buy at the Christmas Markets

Christmas Ornaments: I saw soooo many gorgeous handcrafted ornaments at each of the Christmas Markets that I visited, and it was so hard not to buy them all. You’ll find them made from a variety of materials, including wood, glass, ceramic, lace, textiles, and natural materials. 

Christmas Pyramids (Weihnachtspyramide): You’ll see these pyramids standing at the Christmas Markets, but you can also buy a miniature version of them to take home. 

Glühwein mugs: The cute little mugs that gluhwein comes in make the best souvenirs! Technically, you pay a deposit and you’d get your money back if you return them, but why would you do that? I came home with a whole suitcase full of them, haha.

Lebküchen: These German gingerbread cookies are decorated so adorably and make perfect gifts!

Paper star lanterns: I saw these colorful stars everywhere, and they were so eye-catching! 

Nativity Decorations: You’ll find a variety of nativity scenes and figurines at the markets. There’s even a section of the Marienplatz Christkindlmarkt that is dedicated to them.

Nutcrackers: You’ll find handcrafted nutcrackers in a variety of shapes and sizes, which are perfect to take home.

Candles and candle holders: There are so many amazing candle holders available at the Christmas Markets, from wooden ones, hand-painted glass ones, to intricately carved metal ones, as well as a variety of unique candles.

Where to Stay for Your Munich Christmas Market Trip

If you’re planning a Christmas Market trip to Munich and are wondering where to stay, well, you have some options.

Generally speaking, staying near Altstadt (aka the Old Town) will be the most convenient. You’ll be a short walk away from several of the best Christmas Markets in Munich, making it very easy to visit. However, do note that the hotel rates here tend to be the highest.

Munich does have great public transportation, so I don’t think that it’s an absolute necessity to stay in the Old Town. I stayed in Olympiapark, and found that you can get the best bang for your buck there. It was super easy to get to Altstadt via public transportation so I didn’t find it an inconvenience at all.

Here are some suggested places to stay in Munich when visiting the Christmas Markets:

• Mercure Olympiapark: This is where I stayed. I’ve stayed at several Mercure properties, and I can always count on them for a comfortable stay – this was no different. The rates were very affordable (under $100/night when I went), and it’s just a 2 minute walk to the tram to take you into Altstadt.
• Cortiina Hotel: This elegant boutique hotel is located just a 5 minute walk from Marienplatz. The rooms are comfortable and modern, with stylish furnishings. The staff is said to be super friendly and helpful as well.
• Hotel Bayerischer Hof: This luxurious boutique hotel is located close to many of Munich’s top attractions. Each of the rooms feature a different design style, from cosmopolitan to colonial. There’s also a rooftop pool, with a stunning view of the city.

What to Pack for Munich at Christmas

• Warm winter coat: I packed a waterproof winter jacket like similar to this winter jacket, but if you want to be extra classy, a wool trench coat also works.
• Warm, waterproof, and comfortable boots: I packed my favorite winter boots (they’ve been discontinued but these are also similar boots) as my only pair of shoes for a week of winter weather in Europe, and they were perfect, even as I was walking over 30,000 steps a day! They kept my feet warm, and dry even though I encountered rain and snow.
• Sweaters: To add extra warmth on those chilly days/nights. A sweater dress is super cute and keeps you warm as well!
• Flannel button-down: Makes a perfect layering piece for winter in Munich.
• Cardigans: Also a perfect layering piece, especially because you can get them on and off easily.
• Fleece-lined leggings: Perfect under your sweater dresses, or as an extra layer of warmth under your jeans.
• Lightweight thermals: I’ve been wearing the Uniqlo Heattech shirts for years and they definitely came in handy during my time in Munich! I love that they are lightweight but keep you warm without making you sweaty and moist.
• Beanie: I also packed a knitted headband to switch it up a bit.
• Warm Gloves: These gloves also allow you to use your touchscreen smartphone without taking them off.
• Wool Socks: These wool socks will keep your feet nice and toasty (and will wick moisture)!
• Scarves: I packed a thick infinity scarf, as well as a blanket scarf (this is my favorite scarf!)
• Power Adapter: If coming from outside of Europe.
• Power Bank: To keep your devices charged – the cold makes your phone battery drain fast! I never travel without this one – one charge will give five full charges to your devices.

Have you ever visited Munich at Christmas? What are some of your picks for the best Christmas Markets in Munich?

You might also like:
Magical Things to Do in Munich in Winter
The Perfect One Day in Munich Itinerary
A Complete Guide to Visiting Neuschwanstein Castle in Winter
Incredible Things to Do in Prague in Winter
The Perfect 2 Days in Prague Itinerary

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