Christmas Markets in the Frankfurt Area of Germany
The lovely, small and historic villages of Germany put out the most magical Christmas markets with twinkling lights, mom and pop homemade goods, popular Glühwein (warm, mulled wine in collectible mugs) stands, carousels, nativities all on cobblestone streets surrounded by beautiful cathedrals. What can be more festive than that?
These Christkindl markets are a beautiful way for the senses to soak in all the wonders of Christmas – carols, lights, and the smells of gingerbread and spices. The markets below are in Frankfurt and also just a short train ride away – easy to do it all in 3 days for a quick trip adventure.
Day 1: Arrive at Frankfurt Airport. Transport to your hotel (taxis are waiting outside – make sure they take credit cards and always ask for an estimated fare) or use the train system (get the DB Navigator app which will display times/transfers and payment options). Drop off luggage at your hotel and be on your way to the Christmas markets in Frankfurt!
Christmas Markets in Frankfurt, Germany
Römerberg/Paulplatz Christmas Market
The largest Christmas market in Frankfurt is nicely spread out in the Römerberg/Paulplatz area of the city with architecture remaining from the 15th century and under the Frankfurt Cathedral that can be climbed to the top – 320 steps with nice view of the city. The Christmas market is very well done with many “restaurants” (nothing is really indoor, but some have covered eating areas with heaters), 100s of stalls selling all kinds of homemade goodies including wooden wares, spices, and local delicacies. Also important – nice restrooms. However, this was the busiest Christmas market I visited so, while it held its charm and authenticity, there were quite a lot of people trying to enjoy the same things.
Day 2: Take the train from Frankfurt (~ 1.5 hours) or drive (~30 minutes) to Mainz, Germany
Mainz, Germany Christmas Market
Mainz Christmas Market in Markt is not too large but full of everything you need for a magical market. I found the best part to be the cozy wooden huts with a table inside to enjoy Glühwein and Germany pastries. There are also about 100 stalls with all the wonders of the season. The Markt square is in the shadow of a large 1000+ year old Mainz Cathedral.
Day 3: Take the train from Frankfurt (~2 hours) to Heidelberg, Germany. Hire a taxi (plenty are waiting outside the train station) and head to Marktplatz. From Marktplatz Christmas market it’s an easy 5 minute walk to the next quaint Christmas market at Universitätsplatz.
Heidelberg, Germany Christmas Market
The Heidelberg Christmas markets are located along Heidelberg’s “Hauptstrasse” (Main Street) which is one of Europe’s oldest, and most popular streets to shop. It is a lovely pedestrian-only walkway with restaurants, bars, cafes and shops all along it. The Christmas markets of Marktplatz and Universitätsplatz are located on this main street. It’s just a sweet 5 minute stroll between the two Christmas markets as the castle glows way above this very charming atmosphere.
For places to stay check out VRBO, Hotels.com, Booking.com, or Travelocity.com.