Guide to Christmas Markets in Munich

Looking to kick off the festive season in the Bavarian capital? Then you’ll have to check out our guide to the wonderful Christmas Markets in Munich!

The most wonderful time of the year is especially festive in Munich, with Christmas Markets filling the city, and people flocking to the various stalls. From the end of November until just before Christmas, you can join locals in tasting a variety of sweet treats, and participating in an array of traditional festivities.

Germany is well known for its traditional Christmas markets, and Munich boasts one of the largest, oldest, and most impressive in the country. Up to 3 million visitors come each year to visit the Bavarian capital and its array of festive markets. Planning a visit to help you get in the Christmas spirit? Read on for our guide to Christmas Markets in Munich.

Guide to Christmas Markets in Munich- Photo by Anelale Nájera on Unsplash

Christmas Tree at Marienplatz – Photo by Anelale Nájera on Unsplash

A Variety of Christmas Markets in Munich

One of the best reasons to make Munich your destination for Christmas markets is simply due to the options. From the traditional, to the ultra-throwback, and LGBTQ markets, Munich has it all.

Traditional Markets

For a traditional experience head to Munich’s Christkindlmarkt. It’s located at Marienplatz and spills into the surrounding pedestrian streets. The famous market dates back to the 14th century and is the best place for hand-made gifts, traditional food and drinks. Locals favourites include lebekuchen, zimtsterne, and glühwein. You can also enjoy carolling with local Bavarian musicians. This market runs until 24 December.

Nearby there’s the Rindermarkt where you can also enjoy plenty of food and sweets surrounded by seasonal illuminations. It’s also the location of the Christmas Crib Market. It’s very picturesque especially if you’re lucky enough to visit in the snow!

Guide to Christmas Markets in Munich - Photo by Daniel Seßler on Unsplash

Marienplatz – Photo by Daniel Seßler on Unsplash

Student, LGBTQ, and Alternative Markets

It’s not just all about the traditional Christmas markets in Munich. The LGBTQI+ community in Munich organises the Pink Xmas, which is always a fun and lively place to ring in the holidays. For a more student orientated vibe, head to the Schwabing Christmas Market in Künstviertel (the student area).

Tollwood hosts the Winter Festival takes place until 23Rd December. Organisers aim to promote cultural and ecological activities, with an international philosophy of tolerance, so the stalls and performances here reflect these themes. And most of the events are free.

There’s also a market next to the famous Chinese Tower in the Englischer Garten, so you can enjoy a wander in the park and visit the market, from end of November until 23 December.

Guide to Christmas Markets in Munich – Photo by Alisa Anton on Unsplash

Ultra-Throwback Markets

So we talked about the traditional and alternative Christmas markets in Munich. Now it’s time to talk about something special here. Bavaria has a long history with agriculture, and they also like to recreate past events that celebrate their history. So it’s not uncommon to find Christmas markets in Munich where vendors, and some patrons, are dressed up in traditional clothing.

Il Sendlinger Tor Christmas market is a recreation of the 1886 market and is open from November until just before Christmas. It’s a small but pretty market where you can buy Christmas decorations, candles, jewellery, wooden toys, glassware, and scented oils.

And finally, you can check out the Christmas Market at Munich Residenz. It’s essentially a recreated farming village at the former Bavarian seat of government. You’ll love the charm of this special Christmas market in Munich!

Guide to Christmas Markets in Munich – Photo by Darya Kraplak on Unsplash

Where to Stay in Munich

Book your bed at Euro Youth Hostel for the best beds and international bar in town. You’re guaranteed to love their Happy Hour, and live music at the weekends. If you plan to visit Munich during the Christmas Markets, make sure you book well in advance as it’s a popular annual event!