Looking for the classic wooden huts, beautiful handmade trinkets and a non-stop flow of glühwein? Here are the best traditional Christmas markets in Munich – all post-card perfect like you’ve always dreamed:
Marienplatz Christmas Market (Christkindlmarkt Marienplatz)
Open from Nov 27 – Dec 24, 2018
Location: Marienplatz
THE king of Munich Christmas Markets. This Christkindlmarkt can be found in Marienplatz, Munich’s main square, with delightful stalls spilling out into the nearby shopping streets as well. Because of its central location in Munich’s Old Town, this is by far the most touristy and crowded market, but it’s popular for a reason: stall after stall of traditional handmade crafts, delightful snacks to be bought and the all-too-romantic backdrop of the Neues Rathaus. Be sure to duck into the courtyard of the Rathaus to see more stalls and the Christkindl post office, where you can get a special Christkindl stamp for your postcards/letters.
PS: To get an extra magical view, be sure to climb up St Peter’s Church Tower after sunset too!
Sternenplatzl at Rindermarkt
Open from Nov 27 – Dec 24, 2018
Location: Rindermarkt
While technically still part of the Christkindlmarkt Marienplatz mentioned above, this little set-up at the Rindermarkt is a few minutes’ walk away from the main square, so many miss it. Trust me, you won’t regret a stop here. It’s one of my favourite little markets, offering up a super romantic and cozy vibe. All the trees are lit up with strings of star-shaped Christmas lights and (at least last year), they were serving up gluhwein in adorable little red boots. PS: the Feuerzangenbowle here (complete with a MASSIVE block of sugar that they light on fire) was my favourite of all those I tried last year, so don’t forget to give that a little taste test 😉
Residenz Christmas Village (Weihnachtsdorf im Kaiserhof der Residenz)
Open from Nov 22 – Dec 22, 2018
Location: Courtyard, Residenzstrasse 1 (right next to Odeonsplatz)
As far as magic goes, it’s a little tough to beat a mini-Christmas village placed in the courtyard of a royal palace. This small market has a cozy assortment of different vendors selling traditional craft items, ornaments, snacks, and oh um, how can I forget – there’s a bunch of little doll displays that border on terrifying. STILL, that doesn’t take away from the market’s magical vibes. Do note that this one gets really packed and busy, so claustrophobes beware.
Winter Magic at Viktualienmarkt (Winterzauber auf dem Viktualienmarkt)
Open from Nov 24, 2017 – Jan 6, 2018 [2018 dates TBA]
Location: Viktualienmarkt (just off of Marienplatz)
Munich’s famous open air food market gets a Christmassy makeover during the holidays, with the addition of multiple new stalls and some seriously pretty decorations. This year, they’re even introducing curling to the mix, if you fancy getting destroyed by skilled Bavarians 😉 Those in search of foodie gifts should definitely stop by here – you’ll be spoiled for choice with all of the delicious, local products.
Chinese Tower (Chinesischer Turm) Christmas Market
Open from Nov 29 – Dec 23, 2018
Location: Chinese Tower (Chinesischer Turm) in English Garden
This enchanting little Christmas market can be found in the heart of Munich’s English Garden (one of the world’s largest city parks). The stalls are similar to what you would find at other markets (handmade jewelry, ornaments, crafts, etc.) but the ambiance is really something else. Secluded, quiet and painfully romantic – it’s perfect for a little date night. They even offer horse-drawn carriage rides on weekends so if you’re looking to ball out a little – here’s your chance.
