German Markets

Experience the charm and winter magic of Berlin, the capital of the German Christmas Markets. Home to sixty markets ranging from quaint and enchanting to lively and urban. Whatever you are looking for, you will find it in Berlin. Keep yourself warm with a mug of glühwein and wander the city to discover festive markets that are located on large boulevards and squares, small side streets and even in some of the museums. All are infused with the wonderful aromas of hot chestnuts, grilled sausages and baked apples.

For a Christmas market which has roots dating back to the 14th century, pay a visit to Munich. Head for the Marienplatzin the city centre, where town records mention a ‘Nicholas Market’ in 1642. Munich's delightful stalls offering traditional Christmas gifts and exquisite glassware from the Bavarian forest are just some of the many thousand festive gifts on display. The Christmas atmosphere is completed by the daily alpine concert played from the balcony of the Town Hall, and the aromas of roasted nuts, glühwein and Lebkuchen (German gingerbread) floating around the market place.

Dusseldorf during Advent is an exciting blend of Christmas markets and shopping. A stroll through the centre during the festive season is a wonderful experience. Atmospheric markets with individual themes are staged at different locations around the city. Make time to pay a visit to, and stroll along the world famous Königsallee and admire the brilliant lights that illuminate the giant chestnut trees lining the boulevard. Whilst here, look out for the 'gingerbread houses' selling all sorts of Christmas gifts and local festive delicacies, the huge outdoor ice rink offers fun for all the family.

Cologne offers six markets, the most impressive of which is the market at Cologne cathedral, not least because of the magnificent backdrop. Beneath the enormous Christmas tree at the heart of the square, you will find over 160 attractive wooden pavilions selling a huge array of Christmas gifts. Browse the stalls and keep warm with a delicious mug of mulled wine. For something magical, head for the market on Rudolfplatz and immerse yourself in the wonderful world of fairytales. Against the backdrop of the medieval Hahnentorburg, the festive illuminations are a real treat.

The magic of traditional German Christmas markets is casting more and more visitors under its spell each year. Hamburg's Town Hall provides the setting for the most charming of these markets. Around a hundred shops and stalls are set up in the large urban square,where you will find handcrafted Christmas decorations, wood carvings, silversmiths, pottery and bakers selling gingerbread and cookies. Completing this magical atmosphere is Santa Claus riding up to the sky above the roofs of the market cottages on his reindeer sleigh.

If you would like to visit the home of the Christmas market we recommend a visit to Dresden. Prepare to be charmed by the authentically decorated stalls and marvel at the Erzgebirge Christmas pyramid featuring 42 locally crafted figurines. Watch the master bakers as they prepare the traditional Stollen or the crafting of beautiful Christmas decorations. Enjoy the magical atmosphere as Santa Claus opens a door of the advent calendar each day and tells children’s stories in his traditional house.

Set amidst the Old Town, the world famous Nuremberg Christmas market, has an unmistakable atmosphere. Each year the Christmas Angel opens the Christmas Market in a ceremony that dates back over 400 years, marking the beginning of a magical festive season. Stroll around over 180 stalls of traditional gifts and decorations alongside tempting delicacies of sweet roasted almonds, Nuremberg sausages and gingerbread. Children even have their own Christmas Market, where they can meet the Christmas Angel and send a letter to Santa Claus.

"From" prices are per person based on 2 adults sharing a standard room on a Bed and Breakfast basis, and represent the lowest prices available on selected dates and on selected flights, typically at off peak times of the year. Christmas Market dates vary - please check the individual market details for information on specific destinations. Prices include all applicable savings. Offer correct as at 25 August 2011.