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I’ll never forget my first Christmas market experience because it was Munich. There’s something magical about sipping kinderpunsch from a mug you’ll take home, watching the glockenspiel chime over Marienplatz, and soaking in the festive energy of the city.
Munich at Christmas left me with that warm holiday spirit that lingers long after you’ve left.
Whether you’re a first-timer wondering where to start or a seasoned traveler looking to add some Bavarian cheer to your holidays, this guide has everything you need to plan a festive getaway in Munich for Christmas Market season 2025.
Having experienced first hand last year, I’ll share the best markets (including a medieval hidden gem), where to stay, what to buy (hint: bring an extra tote bag), and how to avoid the crowds like a pro.
Christmas in Munich 2025
Munich during Advent is more than just its famous markets. The city comes alive with twinkling lights, decorated shop windows, holiday concerts, ice skating, and seasonal treats. Festive touches are everywhere.
In 2025, the Munich Christkindlmarkt at Marienplatz runs from November 24 to December 24, open 10am to 9pm Monday through Saturday and 10am to 8pm on Sundays. It closes early at 2pm on Christmas Eve.
Smaller themed markets appear across the city, including a Medieval market that quickly became one of my favorites.
Evenings are very crowded, especially on weekends, so I recommend visiting during the day and returning later to enjoy the lights and festive atmosphere.
Want everything done for you? Join this highly rated tour that includes wine and small bites.
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Read on for all the must-see spots in Munich during the holiday season!
Things to Do in Munich at Christmas
There’s more to Munich at Christmas than just shopping. While the markets are a major highlight, the city is filled with festive experiences that are perfect for couples, families, and first-time visitors alike. Here are my top recommendations for what to do during your holiday trip.
🎄 Visit the Marienplatz Christmas Market
The Munich Christkindlmarkt at Marienplatz is the centerpiece of the city’s holiday season. With centuries of tradition and an unbeatable setting in front of the Neues Rathaus (New Town Hall), this market transforms central Munich into a wonderland filled with music, lights, and festive experiences.
We visited this market several times to enjoy treats, dinner, or just to wander around the stalls. The backdrop of the new and old town hall makes this market truly special.
Over 140 stalls line the square and nearby streets, offering everything from handmade ornaments , nativity scenes, bratwurst, candied almonds, and glühwein or kinderpunsch served in collectible mugs. Don’t miss the giant Christmas tree, towering above it all.
The are no entry fees and the 2025 market runs from November 24 to December 24, open 10am to 9pm Monday through Saturday and 10am to 8pm on Sundays. On Christmas Eve, it closes early at 2pm.
There are festive performances from the balcony, traditional music, and the famous glockenspiel show in the tower above of Marienplatz.
Families with kids will love the dedicated children’s programs. Inside the Neues Rathaus (New Town Hall), the “Himmelswerkstatt” (Heavenly Workshop) invites children aged 6–12 to don angel costumes and take part in hands-on craft activities. The workshop is free but fills quickly, so arrive early or check ahead for hours. There’s also the Kasperltheater, a traditional puppet show featuring Kasperl the clown and his humorous, family-friendly adventures.
Another beloved tradition is “Singing Under the Christmas Tree” every Wednesday at Alter Peter, just steps from Marienplatz. The event is inclusive, with barrier-free access, and offers song texts in large print and Braille, making it one of the most heartwarming and accessible holiday experiences in the city.
The Munich Christkindlmarkt at Marienplatz gets very crowded in the evenings, especially on weekends. For the best experience, arrive in the morning to shop, then return in the evening to enjoy the lights.
🏰 Explore the Medieval Christmas Market
If you’re looking for something different, the Medieval Market at Wittelsbacherplatz is a must. It runs from November 24 to December 23, 2025, and is open daily from 11:00 to 21:00. This market features costumed vendors, artisans crafting goods by hand, and food and drink served in traditional wares like goblets.
At this market you’ll find hand-forged iron goods, natural soaps, leather journals, and live music played on period instruments. There are no entry fees, and it’s especially enjoyable for adults and older kids who want a more immersive holiday setting away from the crowds of Marienplatz.
This market became one of my favorites! I loved the theme and how everything centered around it including the food, costumes, and music. It’s very different from the other markets around town.
🗺️ Visit Other Christmas Markets Around Munich
While Marienplatz is the star, Munich has several other markets worth visiting if you have more time and they are all free to visit! These markets are easy to reach via foot or public transit, and many are just a few minutes apart.
- Residenz Christmas Village: Nestled in the courtyard of the Residenz Palace, this market feels like a secret village with traditional décor, treats, and lights.
- Chinese Tower Market (English Garden): A local favorite, this market offers a relaxed setting beneath the Chinese Tower, with Bavarian food, drinks, and family-friendly stalls.
- Schwabing Christmas Market: Artsy and community-focused, known for handmade gifts, artisan crafts, and small performances.
- Pink Christmas (Stephansplatz): Munich’s LGBTQ+ friendly market with vibrant decor, inclusive energy, and a festive, welcoming atmosphere.
- Winter Magic at Viktualienmarkt (Winterzauber): This centrally located food market takes on a festive twist, with seasonal specialties and warm drinks perfect for a break during your day.
- Sternenplatzl at Rindermarkt: Just a few steps from Marienplatz, this market features beautifully lit stars and charming stalls selling gifts and local delicacies.
- Winter Tollwood Festival (Theresienwiese): A cultural alternative to the Christmas markets with international food, eco-conscious gifts, live music, and art installations. General entry is free but some indoor shows or concerts may require tickets. This is a very unique experience on the grounds of Octoberfest.
- Munich Airport Christmas Market: Yes, even the airport has a full market with an ice rink and over 40 stalls. What a great way to spend a layover in Europe or the start/end to you market visits.
Each market has its own vibe, so if you’re in town for a few days, I definitely recommend market-hopping to experience the full range of Munich’s holiday spirit.
Suggested Route for Market-Hopping
If you’re exploring on foot from Marienplatz, here’s a festive walking loop that hits several of the top spots:
- Start at Marienplatz – in the heart of the action.
- Walk 3 minutes to Rindermarkt (Sternenplatzl).
- Continue 3 minutes to Residenz Christmas Village via Dienerstraße.
- Walk 5 minutes to Wittelsbacherplatz (Medieval Market).
- From there, it’s about 10 minutes to Karlsplatz/Stachus and then on to Viktualienmarkt (loop back toward Marienplatz).
👉 Here is a helpful walking map for the route so far. Click on the highlighted link or the map below 👇 and save it to your phone!
If you’re up for a longer walk or a tram ride, visit Schwabing Christmas Market or the Chinese Tower in the English Garden.
End with Pink Christmas at Stephansplatz (just a few minutes from Sendlinger Tor U-Bahn station).
👉 This map shows you those 3 stops.
For farther-flung markets like Tollwood at Theresienwiese or the Airport Market, use your Munich City Card to ride the U-Bahn or S-Bahn with ease.
💡 Pro Tip: The Munich City Card offers unlimited U-Bahn, S-Bahn, tram, and bus rides, plus discounts at museums, restaurants, and shops.
Tips for Visiting Munich Christmas Markets
- Carry some cash – Many stalls take cards but some don’t, especially for snacks and small purchases. It’s best to carry cash also.
- Keep (or return) your mug – Hot drinks in the market mugs come with a €3–4 deposit for the mug. You can return it for a refund or take it home as a festive souvenir. Also, you can just buy the mug without the drink at many places.
- Visit early – Daytime is less crowded and easier for shopping; evenings are best for lights and music.
- Wear comfy shoes – You’ll be walking a lot on cobblestone streets.
- Know the restroom spots – Public toilets are at major squares, or pop into a café with a small purchase.
- Layer up – Hats, gloves, and a warm coat make all the difference.
- Bring a tote bag – Perfect for carrying gifts and those extra mugs you “accidentally” collect. 😉
😈 Experience the Krampus Run (Krampuslauf)
One of the most unforgettable traditions during Advent in Munich is the Krampus Run. This Alpine custom features performers dressed as terrifying Krampus creatures, complete with horns, chains, and bells, who parade through the city and interact with the crowd.
In 2025, the Krampus run will take place on Sunday, December 14, from 3 to 5 p.m. The exact route is still TBD, but it usually runs through the old town from the main shopping street, Sendlinger Straße, and past Alter Peter. It’s a thrilling, family-friendly (though little ones might find it spooky), and totally unique to the region.
🍽️ What to Eat at the Munich Christmas Markets
Munich’s markets are packed with yummy treats at Christmas..
Start with a bratwurst in a Semmel roll, then try Käsespätzle (cheesy noodles), Kartoffelpuffer (crispy potato pancakes with applesauce), or Flammkuchen (thin flatbread with cream, bacon, and onions).
For something sweet, look for roasted almonds, Schmalznudeln (fried dough pictured here), Lebkuchen (gingerbread), marzipan treats, and chocolate-covered fruit. You’ll also find crepes, a staple at Christmas Markets.
Wash it down with a warm mug of glühwein, kinderpunsch, or hot chocolate in the collectable mug of course!
🛍️ Shop for Handcrafted Holiday Gifts
Munich’s markets are perfect for picking up high-quality, meaningful, and hand-crafted gifts. Look for nutcrackers, wooden toys, snow globes, hand-poured candles, and embroidered textiles.
You’ll also find gifts unique to Munich, like hand-carved Alpine figures, Bavarian ceramics, beer steins, and even locally produced ornaments featuring the city’s skyline or the Frauenkirche towers.
💡Insider Tip: Not every stall features handmade or locally crafted goods. Some offer mass-produced or imported items, which you can usually recognize if you see large quantities or notice the same pieces at several stalls. Both types can be fun to browse, and I enjoyed a mix of each.
📸 Ride the Elevator to the New Town Hall Viewing Platform
For a panoramic view of the market, head to the Neues Rathaus (New Town Hall) just off Marienplatz. An elevator takes you up to the top for a beautiful view at the market stalls and rooftops below. It’s one of my favorite photo spots in the city.
Tickets are affordable, and it’s suitable for all ages and accessibility levels thanks to the elevator. Tickets can be purchased online or in the tourist office on the first floor of the new town hall. We purchased them at the tourist office and they were extra helpful making sure we didn’t miss the Glockenspiel show!
🎶 Enjoy Free Holiday Concerts and Performances
During Advent, live music fills many corners of the city. Choirs and brass ensembles perform on the Marienplatz balcony and other squares throughout the city.
Churches like St. Peter’s and Theatinerkirche often host organ concerts or carol services that are open to the public. Many of these performances are free, though you may want to arrive early for a good seat.
⛸️ Ice Skate at Karlsplatz
Karlsplatz (Stachus), located on the western edge of the old town, transforms into an outdoor skating rink every December. You can rent skates on site, and the rink is surrounded by food stalls, lights, and music. It’s festive, fun, and great for families or anyone looking for a winter activity beyond the markets.
☕ Warm Up with Apple Strudel and Coffee
If you need a break from the cold, head into one of Munich’s historic cafés. I recommend Café Luitpold or Café Glockenspiel for a slice of apple strudel and a coffee with views over the city. It’s a great way to rest your feet and soak in the holiday vibe.
🧣What to Wear While You’re There
Munich in December is cold, often damp, and occasionally snowy, but with the right layers, it’s easy to stay warm and comfortable while exploring the markets.
Average daytime temperatures are between 25°F and 40°F (-4°C to 4°C). Nights feel colder, especially when standing outside sipping glühwein or watching performances. Wind and light snow are also common, so dressing in layers is key.
Essentials to Pack:
- A warm, insulated coat – ideally waterproof or wind-resistant
- Waterproof boots with good grip for cobblestones and snow
- Merino wool socks – my personal favorite for all-day warmth
- Gloves, hat, and a scarf – pick up some handmade ones at the market
- Thermal base layers if you tend to get cold easily
- A compact umbrella or a water-resistant hood, just in case of sleet or mist
Locals dress in a way that is both practical and stylish, often wearing tailored coats, warm scarves, and smart boots. If you take a cue from them, you will stay comfortable and blend right in.
You’ll be outdoors most of the time, so staying dry and comfortable makes a big difference in how long you’ll want to linger in the markets.
🏨Where to Stay in Munich at Christmas
Choosing the right place to stay during the holiday season can make your trip both magical and convenient. I recommend staying within walking distance of the Old Town (Altstadt) so you can enjoy the markets day and night without needing transit.
Here are a three solid picks based on budget, comfort, and location:
📍 Budget Option: Premier Inn Munich
This budget property offers private bathrooms, AC, free WiFi, and an optional breakfast. It is close to public transport and is about a ten minute walk from Marienplatz.
📍 Budget Mid-Range Option: King’s Hotel City Center (My Pick)
This is where I stayed, and I had a great experience. The hotel sits just a few blocks from the main train station, which makes arriving and getting around very easy. Marienplatz is about a twenty minute walk or a quick U Bahn ride. The rooms were clean, quiet, and comfortable, and the staff was very helpful.
📍 Luxury Option: Mandarian Oriental Hotel
This 5 Start hotel has a rooftop pool, and city views, and is close to Marienplatz. Options also include an airport shuttle and family friendly rooms.
Book early. Munich gets busy in December, and the best-located hotels fill up fast. If you’re visiting on a tighter budget, staying a bit farther out and using the Munich City Card for transit is also a great option.
👉 If you want more hotel ideas, I have a full guide on Where to Stay in Munich.
FAQs
Planning a Christmas market trip to Munich? Here are a few quick answers to the most common questions travelers ask this time of year.
Is Munich worth visiting for Christmas?
Yes, Munich is absolutely worth visiting for Christmas. It’s conveniently located and easy to get to. The city is beautifully decorated and offers a wide variety of markets, seasonal food, concerts, and festive events for couples, families, and solo travelers alike.
Do Munich Christmas markets charge an entrance fee?
Most Christmas markets in Munich are free to enter, including Marienplatz, the Medieval Market, and Residenz Village. The only exception is the Tollwood Winter Festival, where general entry is free but some indoor shows or concerts may require tickets.
What is the most Christmassy place in Germany?
That depends on your vibe! Nuremberg and Rothenburg ob der Tauber often top the list for fairy-tale charm, but Munich strikes the perfect balance between tradition, variety, and accessibility. With multiple themed markets, twinkling streets, and caroling under the Christmas tree, it’s a strong contender for the most Christmassy city.
How many days do you need in Munich for Christmas?
Three days is the sweet spot. You’ll have time to explore Marienplatz, visit a few smaller markets, enjoy a festive concert, take in some of the main tourist sites, and maybe even take a day trip. Add a fourth day if you want to see more of the city or relax at a slower pace.
Final Thoughts
Munich at Christmas is everything you hope for in a holiday escape; festive Christmas markets, tasty treats, holiday music, and that festive feeling you’ll remember long after you’ve left. Whether you’re sipping kinderpunsch in a mug you’ll take home or watching the glockenspiel in Marienplatz, the city makes it easy to fall in love with the season.
If it’s your first Christmas market trip, this is the perfect place to start. And if you’re already a holiday travel fan, Munich still finds ways to surprise you with its blend of old-world charm and festive cheer.
Munich Christmas Market 2025 at a Glance
- Main Market Dates: November 24 to December 24, 2025 (Marienplatz)
- Best Time to Visit: Weekday mornings or early afternoons to avoid crowds
- What to Eat: Bratwurst, Käsespätzle, Lebkuchen, glühwein, and roasted almonds
- What to Buy: Handmade ornaments, nutcrackers, candles, Munich-themed gifts
- Where to Stay: Near Marienplatz or Hauptbahnhof (I loved King’s Hotel City Center)
- Don’t Miss: Glockenspiel show, Medieval Market, Himmelswerkstatt (for kids), and Singing under the Christmas Tree
- Getting Around: Use the Munich City Card for unlimited public transport & discounts at some of the top tourist sights
- Pro Tip: Bring cash, layer up, and carry a tote bag for all your festive finds
I hope you found this Munich Christmas Market Holiday Guide helpful for planning your trip in 2025 or whenever you go! Drop me an email if you have any questions. TravelandTinsel@gmail.com I love to hear from readers.
