Munich Christmas markets, Germany

Christmas Markets in Munich are a major attraction in the Bavarian capital, drawing visitors from all over the world. They open in late November and run until 24 December; in 2026, the main Christkindlmarkt on Marienplatz is open from 20 November to 24 December (closed on 22 November). A few markets reopen briefly after Christmas, but most have closed by New Year.

Munich itself hosts about 20 Christmas markets, and including the suburbs, the total number approaches 100.

Highlights and Tips for Visitors

• Best time to visit: Mornings are quiet, with few people and many stalls still closed. Lunchtime and evening are ideal, when all pavilions are open and mulled wine flows freely. Markets generally close around 22:00, while nearby restaurants and cafes stay open until 23:00–00:00.
• Marienplatz (Christkindlmarkt): The largest and most famous market, stretching from Marienplatz along Kaufingerstraße and Neuhauser Straße. A 25-meter Christmas tree with some 3,000 lights stands in front of the New Town Hall, and live music is played from the Town Hall balcony in the evening. The courtyard of the New Town Hall also hosts a small fair, and in winter an ice rink is often set up on Karlsplatz (Stachus), at the western end of the shopping street.
• Munich Residence Courtyard: A smaller, cozier, and well-organized market, accessible from Odeon Platz.
• Chinese Tower in the English Garden: A pretty market around the wooden pagoda, a little further from the old town.

What You Can Find

• Handcrafted toys and Christmas decorations
• Souvenirs and wooden crafts
• Sweets and food
• Mulled wine (around €5–7 per cup, plus a mug deposit that is refunded when you return the mug)
• Prices for souvenirs range from €1–2 to over €100 for handmade items

Overall Impression

Munich Christmas markets are enjoyable, lively, and offer a wide selection of goods. However, for visitors seeking the most enchanting Christmas experience, the markets in Vienna are often considered more atmospheric and festive.