What Not to Miss at the Hamburg Christmas Markets

Christmas Markets are celebrated across Europe, starting in late November and ending a few days after Christmas. European Christmas markets, especially German ones, are famous because they embody the spirit of the season in a way that feels magical and timeless!

Germany is considered the birthplace of the traditional Christmas market, with some dating back to the Middle Ages. While not among the oldest, Hamburg in northern Germany is home to some of the most beautiful Christmas markets in the country.

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With more than 30 unique locations across the city, the Hamburg Christmas markets offer visitors a true taste of the European holiday season. As you wander among the market stalls, take in all the festive decorations, twinkling Christmas lights, and live music.

They’re a great way to see the city, drink mulled wine, try traditional treats, and shop for Christmas gifts. If you’re dreaming of a trip to see these festive markets, keep reading for my ultimate guide on everything you need to know about Hamburg’s Christmas markets.

What Is it Like to Visit the Hamburg Christmas Markets?

The sparkling Christmas markets of Hamburg feel like a break with the dwindling sunlight and shortening days that winter brings. The official starting date of the Christmas market is the Monday before Advent, but some markets can open in early November.

German Christmas market festivities continue all month with Der Adventskranz, or the Advent Wreath, laid flat holding 4 candles, one for each Sunday of Advent. Each Sunday is celebrated with caroling and cookies.

Santa often makes appearances, especially at the larger and more family-friendly markets like the Rathausmarkt Christmas Market. Kids can meet Santa, share their holiday wish lists, and take photos with him. There are also historic carousels and kid-friendly activities.

And while Christmas tends to be thought of as a children’s holiday, these festive markets are a great way for adults to get in on the fun and nostalgia! Imagine strolling through cobblestone streets lined with twinkling lights, the air filled with the scent of warm spices, roasted chestnuts, and fresh pine. Enjoy a cup of warm Glühwein as you browse the charming stalls.

They may have separate names and be on different streets, but many of the markets sprawl over into each other. So, you can walk through several without realizing it! If you start at Winterwald, both Spitalerstraße and St. Petri are closest. There’s the Rathausmarkt with Jungfernstieg a bit further down.

In nearly every public square in Hamburg, wooden stalls spring up, covered in lights and red trim. You will also find carolers and plenty of stalls selling gifts and decorations. The city’s rich history adds to the experience, with many markets set against stunning backdrops like the grand City Hall or along the picturesque canals.

Best Time to Visit the Hamburg Christmas Markets

Most of the Weihnachtsmärkte, or Christmas Markets (also called Christmärkte or Wintermärkte) are open every day starting at the end of November.

The best time to visit the Hamburg Christmas markets is during the first few weeks of December. If you want to miss heavier crowds, come on a weekday. If you want to attend special events or live performances, come during the weekends. The markets tend to be busier then, but that’s part of the fun!

For the best experience, come after dark, of course! Evenings are particularly magical with everything lit up. Fortunately, it starts getting dark around 4 in December, so even small children can enjoy the festivities.

While Hamburg weather is usually reasonably mild during December considering the latitude, be sure to bundle up and drink some hot chocolate or Glühwein (hot mulled wine) to keep you warm.

The 10 Best Hamburg Christmas Markets

There are over 30 Christmas Markets in Hamburg. They come in every size, from quaint and quiet to large and loud! While they usually have similar stalls, most have their unique features.

Some have themes like Maritime, as well as Scandinavian and British for homesick expats. There are historic and traditional markets as well as trendy markets. On my list, I’ve included options that are best for families with young children, as well as an adult-only Christmas market!

However, not all the Hamburg Christmas markets are equal. So, here’s my list of the top 10 Christmas markets in Hamburg.

1. Rathausmarkt Christmas Market

If you only have one night to enjoy the festivities in Hamburg, head for the Rathausmarkt. Located in front of the City Hall, this is one of the largest and most popular markets, known for its beautifully decorated stalls and historic carousel.

The Rathausmarkt is also called the Roncalli Christmas Market because it’s organized by Circus Roncalli, a well-known German circus company that brings its signature look and feel to the event.

Blending traditional Christmas market charm with elements of a circus, this makes Rathausmarkt one of the most distinctive of the Christmas markets in Hamburg! Plus, Rathausmarkt benefits from the beautiful backdrop of the grand City Hall building, which dates back to the 1800s.

From the Rathaus, you can wander over to the Binnenalster, the smaller of 2 man-made lakes in the center of Hamburg. Every year, a huge Christmas tree is installed on a platform in the lake. There are also a few small carnival rides for the kids here.

Since the Rathaus is in the middle of the main Hamburg shopping district you could also do some holiday shopping. There are several department stores and shopping streets that gladly take the opportunity to get in on the spirit of the season!

2. Winterwald in Hamburg

Winterwald is one of the main markets in Hamburg. It’s located at Gerhart-Hauptmann-Platz with an entrance on Mönckebergstraße, one of the city’s main shopping streets.

As you enter the market, it’s like stepping into a winter wonderland! This market is best known for having plenty of Christmas trees, meant to create the feeling of being in the middle of an enchanting winter forest (Winterwald literally means “winter forest!).

While Winterwald is a smaller market that tends to have fewer stalls than others, this market is all about the ambiance. Stalls are covered in garlands of festive lights and pine sprigs, selling hand-painted Lichthäuser and intricate Christmas decorations.

3. Jungfernstieg Christmas Market

Another main Christmas market in Hamburg is Weißerzauber auf dem Jungfernstieg. Sitting on the edge of Binnenalster, this market not only offers beautiful views of the water but also an elegant atmosphere.

This is thanks to its unique white pagoda tents where you can shop for souvenirs and holiday presents. Here you will find a mix of traditional German items as well as trendy and high-quality gifts your loved ones will appreciate.

If you can time it right, definitely come here after dark. Glowing in tones of ivory, gold, and ice blue, it’s easy to see why Jungfernstieg is considered one of the most beautiful and best Christmas markets in Hamburg!

4. Spitalerstraße Christmas Market

For a mix of traditional and modern, Spitalerstraße Christmas Market is the perfect place to go. Situated on one of Hamburg’s busiest pedestrian-only shopping streets, this market is a great stop while holiday shopping.

It features market stalls in a unique brick style, food stalls, and tons of photo ops. Enjoy live music while you shop for classic market items or pop into one of your favorite clothing stores!

5. The St. Petri Christmas Market

Next to St. Petri Church in the heart of Hamburg, the St. Petri Christmas Market is a must-visit, especially if you have young children with you! This is a cozy, Scandinavian-style market that offers a warm atmosphere and entertainment for all ages.

In addition to the classic German treats, this market is known for its selection of international delicacies. Charming chalet-style stalls surrounded by decorated fir trees sell custom gifts, Christmas decorations, and beautiful handcrafted toys.

The main attraction at this particular Hamburg Christmas market is the darling fairy tale-themed dioramas from another era. Be sure not to miss!

6. Ottensen Christmas Market

Get out of downtown Hamburg and head to the trendy neighborhood of Ottensen, which hosts its own Christmas market. What makes it worth a trip to the Altona district is the unique gifts and great entertainment you will find!

When you get off the bus at the Altona stop, you’re just steps away from the Ottensen Market that runs the length of the Mercado shopping mall and beyond.

The sea of red and green market stalls trimmed with Christmas lights number in the 40s, with a mind-blowing variety of souvenirs and gifts. You will find more than your typical market ornaments here!

Ottensen is a family-centric area, and you can tell. Take the kids for a ride on the stunning merry-go-round, see a puppet show, or listen to kid-friendly Christmas music. If you come on December 6th, you might get to see Santa, too!

When you get hungry, you can sample classic market fare, international favorites, and gourmet delicacies. So, there’s something for even the pickiest eater in the family!

7. Santa Pauli Christmas Market

If you’re looking for something a bit less child-friendly, or if you have a kid-free night in Hamburg, you might want to check out Santa Pauli Market. Not for the faint of heart, this is definitely an X-rated market that doesn’t hold back.

Located in the red light district of St. Pauli, this is another of the more popular Christmas markets. Here you will find some of your classic market stalls selling candles and ornaments, as well as classic market fare. But visitors come to Santa Pauli for the spicier gifts.

During the day (and on Sundays) this market is less hectic. After dark, it’s all about the spice. Grab a cup of Glühwein, dance to the blaring music, and enjoy the adult entertainment.

8. Schloss Bergedorf Christmas Market

Another great market that’s worth the trip is the Christmas market at Schloss Bergedorf. This relatively out-of-the-way market takes place on the grounds of the 13th-century Bergedorf Castle, which just adds to the holiday spirit!

Come here if you’re looking for something outside the hustle and bustle of downtown Hamburg. The Bergedorf Market is popular for its Nordic theme. In addition to traditional market fare, you will also find Scandinavian delicacies. This is a popular stop if you’re looking for local handcrafted gifts.

This market is also great for kids, with its wooden carousel, game booths, and arts and crafts tables. On the weekends, kids can visit Santa and take pictures. Or come on Sundays for Advent caroling.

9. Christmas Market around the Michel

If you’re looking for a historic Christmas market, the Michel Christmas Market is it. This is the oldest Christmas market in Hamburg and it takes place in the square around St. Michael’s Church.

Unlike the other locations on my list, this market only takes place the first weekend of Advent (11/29-12/1 in 2024). This is where to come for a unique experience with very traditional elements.

Of course, there are your classic market stalls and food vendors. And all weekend, families can enjoy events like a Christmas tree lighting, Advent concerts, prayer services, and more.

10. The Treudelberg Christmas Market

For a different side of Hamburg, head to the north. The Treudelberg Christmas Market is a quaint, countryside market that takes place in the courtyard of the Steigenberger Hotel Treudelberg.

This is a stunning, rustic Christmas market. It’s especially popular with families because of its quieter atmosphere, but also because of all the activities for kids, like arts and crafts and a carousel.

What to Eat at the Hamburg Christmas Market

Every festival in Germany has classic sausages and pilsner. You can also find them at Christmas markets! There will also be delicious food like crepes, stollen, Lebkuchen (a German cousin of gingerbread), and plenty of sweets like Marzipan and tool-shaped chocolates. We recommend trying all of the Christmas market food!

Glühwein is served in ceramic mugs and you pay a few euro deposit. This is returned when you turn in your mugs. There are other hot drinks, like chocolate (with peppermint schnapps if you so desire) served similarly.

Best Things to Buy at a German Christmas Market

Most of the Hamburg Christmas markets feature a variation of the same thing: classic German souvenirs, trendy gift items, and Christmas decor. Some will also sell a variety of toys and houseware, and a few might even have boutique designers.

The sky’s the limit when it comes to what you can buy at the Hamburg Christmas markets! But if you’re looking for traditional German items, there are a few I suggest focusing on.

Among the best things to buy are the beautiful, illuminated paper stars, which add a warm and cozy glow wherever you hang them. For a truly special gift, look for intricately crafted German handmade toys that are perfect for children and adults alike.

Don’t miss the chance to pick up regional items like Hamburg honey or Speicherstadt coffee, which offer a taste of the city’s local flavors. And collectible glühwein mugs, often hand-painted, make wonderful souvenirs. Traditional Christmas ornaments, whether made of glass or wood, are also a must-buy while at any German Christmas market.

If you want to build on your miniature Christmas village scene, this is where you will find authentic Lichthäuser, the classic painted porcelain Christmas village figurines that light up!

Tips for Shopping at the Christmas Markets

While you’re perusing all the amazing things to buy at the Hamburg Christmas Market stalls, here are a few tips for visiting German markets:

• Check Online for Market Schedules – While most markets are open every day during the holidays, some have varying schedules. Check on the Hamburg tourism website for up-to-date Christmas Market schedules and times. 
• Bring Something to Carry Home What You Buy – Come prepared with a sturdy cloth bag or backpack to carry your purchases. Many items, like delicate ornaments or handmade crafts, may require extra protection on your way home.
• Bring Cash – Many vendors at Hamburg Christmas markets prefer cash, so it’s a good idea to have Euros on hand. While some stalls may accept cards, carrying cash ensures you won’t miss out on any unique finds.
• Look for Mass-Produced Products – While they may market themselves as handmade crafts, there are many mass-produced items in the midst. These can be more affordable, but make sure to ask about the origin if you’re looking for something truly unique and authentic.
• Think About How You Will Get It Home – Consider how you will transport your purchases, especially fragile or bulky items. Wooden ornaments and paper stars are more easily packed away in suitcases. If you’re traveling internationally, be mindful of customs regulations.

Looking for more Christmas travel ideas? Check out the best European Christmas markets, and where to celebrate Christmas around the world.

About the author: Claire of World Traveler in Training is the original author of this post. It has since been edited by Elizabeth Ramos.