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20 Photos That Will Make You Want to Visit the German Christmas Markets

The lilt of snowflakes, the sparkle of white lights against the darkness, the warmth and comfort of hot chocolate, and the delight of Christmas carols. Despite being a Texas girl who hates the cold, I am a sucker for winter. Add the smell of roasting nuts and the charm that emanates from every corner of the German Christmas markets, and I am a goner.

We’ve had the chance to visit the fairy tale markets of Nuremberg, Munich, Trier, Cologne, and Aachen. They are filled with a kind of holiday spirit we’ve rarely experienced at home. Punctuated with every sight, sound, and flavor (sausage!) of winter happiness you could imagine, the markets were the epitome of Christmas cheer.

Just in case you need more reasons to head to Germany in December, here are 20 festive photos that will make you want to run and book a ticket.

Shoppers fill the aisles of the Nuremberg Christmas market
The German Christmas markets buzz with energy and festivity
Brightly-painted gingerbread ornaments
Gingerbread ornaments in Nuremberg
Carousel in the snow at the Nuremberg Christmas market
Carousel in the Nuremberg snow
People serving sausage at the German Christmas markets
All kinds of delicious sausage are a staple at the German Christmas markets
Daddy and daughter eating sausage
Daddy and daughter indulging in a market snack
Children carrying lanterns at night
Young children participate in the Nuremberg lantern parade one night in mid-December
Carolers outside a church at night
Choir performances add to the atmosphere
People standing at a highly-decorated market stall
Gluhwein (mulled wine) and beer stall
Horse-drawn carriage
Horse-drawn carriage that tours through Nuremberg
Pastries for sale
Pastries for sale
Decorations and half-tiber buildings in Nuremberg
Decorations throughout the cities
Drink stand decorated like a German Christmas pyramid with propeller
Even the food stalls are elaborate
Lit Christmas tree in front of Munich city hall
Christmas tree in front of Munich city hall
Potpourri and ornaments on display for sale
Potpourri and ornaments
Winter fruit for sale in Munich
Winter fruit
Beer steins
Beer steins are everywhere at the German Christmas markets
Ornaments and figurines at German Christmas markets
Ornaments and figurines
Wooden ornaments
Wooden ornaments are popular throughout Germany
Figurines made of nuts and prunes dressed like people
Figurines made of nuts and prunes are traditional in Nuremberg

Have you ever been to one of the German Christmas markets? What did you think?

Visiting the German Christmas markets in Nuremberg and Munich is a fun thing to do during the holiday season. Drink some gluhwein, shop for an ornament, listen to the music, and have a great time | 20 Photos That Will Make You Want to Visit the German Christmas Markets

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Sue

Thursday 23rd of September 2021

We have been to the Christmas markets in Rothenburg, Nuremberg and Munich. Absolutely the best experience ever!!!

Harry W Tuerpe

Wednesday 4th of March 2020

I highly recommend "Danube River Christmas Markets" From Passau, Germany to Budapest, Hungary and all the stops in between. The best ever. Most colorful, beautiful and the food and Gluhwein really great. We got to spend time on the many Christmas Markets along the way. The best way to see the many Christmas Markets is on a River Cruise, not fly to one city. Unforgettable memories. We also went to Egypt, Peru and Mallorka, Spain. Love to travel.

Nita Snyder

Wednesday 30th of November 2016

On our way Saturday. Can't wait. The pictures make me even more excited .

Laura Longwell

Wednesday 30th of November 2016

That's great! You will have such an amazing time.

Kristina O

Friday 18th of March 2016

This is my favorite childhood memory. Germany is a magical place to grow up. If you want a little piece of this but can't afford to travel to Europe, try the Kristkindl Market in Chicago. It even has the red and white striped awnings. You can get the same ornaments and food as in Nuremburg because those same businesses travel here for the Market.

Francesca (@WorkMomTravels)

Tuesday 22nd of December 2015

Gorgeous photos! I love Germany so much and have long wanted to see the Christmas markets there.... This definitely makes me wish I could get there sooner rather than later.

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