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

As the chill of winter sweeps across Bavaria, Munich transforms into a festive dreamscape. Picture streets twinkling with lights, the aroma of roasted chestnuts wafting through the air, and wooden stalls brimming with holiday treasures. Munich’s Christmas markets, or Christkindlmarkt, have been enchanting visitors for centuries and they’re the perfect way to dive headfirst into the magic of the holiday season. Let me take you on a journey through some of the best Christmas markets in Munich.

Did you know Munich’s Christmas markets date back to the 14th century? They started as simple winter markets where locals stocked up on essentials to weather the cold months. Over time, these markets evolved, embracing festive cheer with handmade gifts, holiday decorations, and delicious seasonal treats.

So what exactly are Christmas markets, and why are they so beloved? Originally, they were a practical gathering place for artisans and farmers to sell goods for winter. Fast forward to the 19th century, and the rise of Christmas tree traditions brought a booming demand for ornaments, sparking the markets we know and love today. Munich’s markets remain a blend of Bavarian tradition, festive charm, and community spirit.

When Do Christmas Markets Start in Munich?

One of the most common questions travelers ask is: When do Christmas markets start in Germany? The answer? Most markets, including Munich’s, kick off in late November and wrap up on Christmas Eve. For 2024, you can expect the festivities to start during the last week of November—just in time to welcome the holiday spirit.

There’s something truly magical about Munich’s markets. Maybe it’s the scent of spiced Glühwein (mulled wine) mingling with freshly baked gingerbread, or the sight of glimmering ornaments hanging from wooden stalls. Whatever it is, these markets have a way of making time stand still.

Munich’s markets stand out for their rich Bavarian traditions. From high-quality, locally-made crafts to mouthwatering regional treats, each market captures a unique slice of southern Germany’s festive charm. And let’s not forget the incredible settings—from the historic backdrop of Marienplatz to the fairytale forest at the Residenz.

There are several Christmas Markets in Munich and each market has its unique charm and character. But all share a common thread of Bavarian hospitality and tradition, wooden stalls, lovingly decorated with pine branches and twinkling lights. Munich’s Christmas market scene is notably extensive, with numerous markets spread across the city, each with its distinct character. Also, Munich’s strong Catholic heritage influences its Christmas celebrations, setting it apart from the predominantly Protestant regions of Germany.

What to Buy (and Eat!) at Munich’s Christmas Markets

At the Christmas markets in Munich you will find wooden stalls selling handcrafted gifts, delicate glass ornaments, and carved wooden toys next to a culinary bliss of typical Bavarian food you can sample. Even though most of the typical food items contain gluten, there are a growing number of stalls selling gluten-free foods. These stalls will have a big sign saying “Glutenfrei”.

The awareness of gluten-free food options is constantly growing in Munich and according to my experience, Munich is one of the easiest cities in Germany I traveled to after our celiac diagnosis a couple of years ago.

Some gluten-free treats you might love include:

• Leberkäse (without the bun)
• Mulled wine (Glühwein)—perfect for warming up!
• Roasted almonds (Gebrannte Mandeln)
• Grilled meats and sausages (just skip the sauces)

But as always ask questions before eating!

Here is a restaurant guide with gluten-free options in Munich and an interactive travel map where you can find GF restaurants and bakeries all over the world.

With so many markets scattered throughout the city, where should you start? Here are my top picks:

This is the heart of Munich’s Christmas celebrations. Under the towering Christmas tree and the Neo-Gothic New Town Hall, 140 stalls sell everything from Bavarian crafts to holiday treats. Don’t miss the nearby Kripperlmarkt, a market dedicated to Nativity scenes.

During the festive season, Karlsplatz Stachus transforms into a magical winter wonderland, offering one of the city’s most beloved ice skating experiences. Combine festive shopping with a magical ice-skating experience. Glide across the rink surrounded by twinkling lights, then reward yourself with a cup of hot Glühwein.

Visitors can enjoy a variety of tents offering international crafts, organic food with many gluten-free options, and plenty of cultural activities such as street performances, live music, and discussions about environmental topics. This festival is a true fusion of art, culture, and sustainability and is a highlight of Munich’s holiday season.

Nestled in the courtyard of Munich’s royal palace, this market feels like stepping into a Christmas fairytale. Kids will love the Hansel and Gretel forest, and adults will appreciate the craftsmanship on display.

Travel back in time at this market, complete with costumed vendors and medieval-themed goods. The historical ambiance is truly one-of-a-kind.

A favorite among locals, this market in the bohemian district of Schwabing has a more relaxed, artistic vibe. It is known for its artistic flair, featuring handmade crafts, unique artwork, and live performances, making it a hub for creatives and art enthusiasts.

Set in the English Garden, this market offers a serene escape with classic Bavarian treats and a cozy atmosphere beneath the iconic Chinese Tower.

No visit to Munich’s Christmas markets is complete without indulging in the festive fare. Some must-try treats include:

• Glühwein: A warming mulled wine, served in collectible mugs. (Contains alcohol)
• Lebkuchen: Soft, spiced gingerbread cookies (not gluten-free! in the markets but can be purchased gluten-free in selected grocery stores.)
• Gebrannte Mandeln: Candied, roasted almonds (usually gluten-free but double-check)
• Reiberdatschi: Crispy potato pancakes (double check if they are gluten-free or if contain wheat!)
• Stollen: A traditional Christmas fruit bread (not gluten-free!)

Beyond the markets themselves, Munich offers a host of magical Christmas attractions:

• Ice skating at different locations throughout the City: Karlsplatz (Stachus), Prinzregentenstadion or SAP Garden in the Olympic Park. Depending on the thickness of the ice the Nymphenburg Canal will open up to the public for ice skating and curling.
• Christmas tram: Take a festive ride through the city on a beautifully decorated tram
• Christmas concerts: Enjoy performances in stunning venues like the Residenz and Cuvilliés Theatre
• Relax in Munich’s heated outdoor pool Dante-Winter-Warmfreibad.
• Visit the zoo and see elks, yaks, polar bears, and sea lions enjoy the cold weather.
• Explore the wonderful museums in Munich.
• Visit the Therme in Erding
• Go on a day trip to a nearby city like Garmisch-Partenkirchen or a fairy castle like Neuschwanstein. Here are some travel ideas in the area that might interest you.

Why You’ll Love Munich at Christmas

There’s a reason Munich’s Christmas markets are world-famous. They’re not just about shopping or food—they’re about capturing the spirit of the season. Whether you’re sipping Glühwein under a sky full of stars, browsing hand-painted ornaments, or simply soaking up the festive atmosphere, these markets are a reminder of what makes the holidays so special.