The Heidelberg Christmas markets are one of Germany’s most famous Christmas markets. They take place from November 21 to December 22nd and are located in the city center of Heidelberg. They’re a great way to enjoy the Christmas season with friends and family, as well as a very popular tourist attraction for those visiting Germany during this time of year. Since moving to Heidelberg, the Christmas Markets have been one of my favorite things to do.
The Heidelberg Christmas Markets are a quintessential German tradition, and perhaps the most famous in the country. They’ve been a mainstay of the Heidelberg holiday season since the 15th century when they were first held to celebrate the birth of Jesus Christ.
The markets take place each year in the city center, in and around Heidelberg Castle. The streets are lined with stalls selling everything from handmade decorations to delicious food and drink. You’ll also find a variety of entertainers performing throughout the day.
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A Guide to the Heidelberg Christmas Markets
Heidelberg Christmas Markets are a magical experience. Every year, people from all over the world come to Heidelberg to enjoy the sights and sounds of this famous German holiday tradition.
If you’re planning on visiting Heidelberg any time soon, here’s everything you need to know about how to do the Christmas Markets. I’ve also created this post on brunch spots in the area.
Grab a hot drink
The city is filled with lights and Christmas trees, and there are plenty of opportunities to get a hot drink. You can grab a glühwein —hot mulled wine—or a traditional German beer, hot cocoa, or warm apple juice. At the Uniplatz, the establishment that serves the BEST Glühwein features a giant sign reading “Eier Punsch” in yellow and red.
Shop around
Shopping is also a popular activity at Heidelberg’s Christmas market, so grab some friends and make your way through the stalls selling Christmas decor, customized mugs, candles, blankets, and more! It’s also a great way to pick up some souvenirs for family back home!
Grab a bite
For me, there’s nothing better than eating a Kartofel puffer (potato puff) and drinking a hot chocolate with whipped cream at the Christmas market. The Kartofel puffer is just potatoes and apple sauce on top of the dough, but it’s so delicious! And then I always have to get myself some Langos, which is fried bread with salt or Nutella, depending on how much of a sweet tooth you have.
Capture the Merry Christmas Sign
Head over to Marktplatz for market number two. Make sure you get there early enough to watch the city hall turn into a giant Merry Christmas sign at nightfall (6 pm). It’s breathtaking! Then go inside and check out Heidelberger Fass—it’s an old wine barrel that has been converted into a souvenir shop. While you’re there, don’t forget to get another beverage and a bratwurst! We highly recommend getting one with Sauerkraut (sauerkraut). You can’t spend too much time in Heidelberg without trying out local beer!
Shop at Kornmarkt Christmas Market
This is the smallest market with mainly shopping options and a few food stalls. The stands here offer everything from chocolate truffles to gourmet chocolates and even handmade wooden gifts for your friends back home. It’s also the perfect spot for a selfie with the castle in the background.
In addition to the charming Christmas market, Heidelberg also boasts a wide variety of other attractions. The Heidelberg Castle is a must-see. From Kornplatz, take the tramway up to the castle grounds, where you may take a guided tour or just stroll about the palace garden and castle at your leisure.
Go Iceskating
Visit the final market at Karlsplatz! Time to get your skates on! This market has an ice rink that overlooks the castle, which makes for some amazing photos and memories of a lifetime. You can also find some great food options here too like hot cocoa and mulled wine—and they’re all served up in festive mugs! If skating isn’t your thing then why not just walk around town instead? There are plenty of shops along Market Street that sell festive decorations like wreaths and lights so you can get into the holiday spirit before even hitting up any markets.
It’s hard to explain what makes this place so special. It’s not just the food; it’s also the atmosphere. You can see local craftsmen selling their wares right there at the market and listening to live music while you snack on your treats. It doesn’t get much better than that!
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