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If you're thinking about taking a festive holiday this year, you seriously need to consider spending Christmas in Germany. Not only do they have incredible Christmas markets, delicious food and phenomenal ice skating rinks, but they also have many esteemed Christmas traditions that have been passed down over the years.
In this blog, we'll tell you all about how to celebrate Christmas in Germany, including German Christmas traditions and the best places for spending Christmas in Germany 2024 that includes:
- Nuremberg
- Rothenburg ob der Tauber
- Cologne
- Dresden
- Munich
- Düsseldorf
- Stuttgart
- Breitnau
- Mosel
- Essen
What To Know About Christmas in Germany
Is Germany a good place to go for Christmas?
Yes, Germany is an excellent Christmas holiday destination! Cities like Nuremberg, Cologne, and Munich offer historic festive atmospheres, while towns like Rothenburg ob der Tauber and Breitnau provide enchanting, picturesque settings. From enjoying mulled wine at Christmas markets to exploring cultural landmarks, Germany offers a magical holiday experience for everyone.
Do Germans celebrate Christmas for 3 days?
Yes, Christmas in Germany is celebrated over three days. The festivities begin on December 24th with Christmas Eve (Heiligabend), when families exchange Christmas gifts and attend church services. December 25th, Christmas Day (Erster Weihnachtstag), is a public holiday spent relaxing with family, while December 26th, Boxing Day (Zweiter Weihnachtstag), is also a holiday for visiting extended family or enjoying a day off.
Why do Germans celebrate Christmas on 24th?
In Germany, Christmas Eve (Heiligabend) is the main day of celebration. Germans believe that Christmas begins on the evening of December 24th, and this is when families gather for festive meals, open Christmas presents, and attend church services. It’s a cherished tradition that marks the start of the Christmas holiday, focusing on family togetherness and festive preparations.
What do Germans call Santa?
Germans call Santa Claus “Der Weihnachtsmann,” which means “The Christmas Man.” He is similar to the Santa Claus found in other cultures, visiting children on Christmas Eve to deliver gifts. While Der Weihnachtsmann brings joy and presents, he is just one part of Germany’s rich Christmas traditions.
What is the bad Santa tradition in Germany?
Germany’s “Krampusnacht” or “Krampus Night” features a mischievous figure called Krampus, who accompanies St. Nicholas on December 5th. Unlike the jolly St. Nicholas, Krampus is known for scaring naughty children as a playful reminder of good behavior. This tradition adds a thrilling twist to the festive season with spooky costumes and lively celebrations.
The Most Popular Christmas Traditions in Germany
Christmas in Germany is a magical time filled with cherished German Christmas traditions and festive celebrations. From the Advent season to Germany's unique Christmas Eve, Germany has numerous Christmas traditions that have been passed down through generations. Let's explore the heartwarming German Christmas traditions that make Christmas in Germany truly special.
1. Advent
The Advent tradition begins on the 4th Sunday before Christmas Eve, officially ushering in the Christmas season. It is a time when families gather to celebrate traditions, light candles on the Advent wreath, and count down the days to Christmas through Advent calendars, creating a sense of anticipation and joy.
Where does the Advent wreath candle holder originate from?
An Advent wreath is a wreath usually woven from fir greenery, on which four candles are placed, one more of which is lit every Sunday before 24 December. Its origins go back to the 19th century and its history is heartwarming. At the time, the Protestant pastor Johann Hinrich Wichern opened a home for children in need in Hamburg. To shorten the endless time before Christmas for the waiting children, he invented what we know today as an Advent wreath. At that time, it was still made of wood and hung from the ceiling, but the custom was born. If you're spending Christmas in Germany, you can make your own or buy a ready-made one from a florist.
2. Baking Traditional German Christmas Cookies
Getting together with friends or family and baking traditional German Christmas biscuits (otherwise known as Lebkucken) is definitely one of the best German Christmas traditions. If you're spending Christmas in Germany, get the family in the kitchen and get creative with your biscuit decorations. The most popular biscuits and pastries at Christmas time are vanilla crescents, speculoos, nut cookies and coconut macaroons.
3. Visiting German Christmas Markets
Germany is home to many of the world's best Christmas markets and many people spend a large part of their pre-Christmas period here. Most German Christmas markets open as early as November, so you have plenty of time to explore a wide range of different places and pick up some unique Christmas gifts.
4. Cleaning Boots for St. Nicholas Day
St. Nicholas comes on 6th December and you better have a clean boot on your doorstep. Children in particular take this German Christmas tradition very seriously because they know that St. Nicholas will put a few Christmas gifts in their boot over night and if the boot has not been cleaned, sadly the poor kids will be empty-handed. So, if you're spending Christmas in Germany, don't forget to clean your boot on St. Nicholas Day.
5. Attending a Christmas Eve Service in Church
For many Germans, Christmas is still a sacred and religious festival, which is why chapels and churches all over the country hold services on Christmas Eve. Even if you are not religious, when spending Christmas in Germany it's definitely worth attending one of these Christmas services at least once, because they are beautiful to watch and give you a sense of a beautiful traditional Christmas in Germany.
6. Giving Christmas Presents
Finally, the time has come - Christmas presents! In many countries, Christmas gifts are only given on Christmas Day, i.e. on the 25th of December. In Germany, however, the whole family gathers around the Christmas tree on the evening of the 24th December and unwraps the presents underneath together. Then it's typical for the children to:
- Recite poems
- Play an instrument
- Sing a Christmas carol
Before the evening is rounded off with a classic German Christmas meal. When celebrating Christmas in Germany, Christmas Day and Boxing Day are spent visiting the rest of the family and having a jolly time together.
Enjoying a traditional German Christmas dinner
Let's face it, apart from the Christmas presents, this is what we look forward to most at Christmas time, the meal on Christmas Eve. It's a tradition where everyone comes together and enjoys all kinds of delicacies.
German Christmas food traditions differ somewhat from region to region. However, the most typical dishes are:
- Potato salad with sausages
- Roast duck or goose with potato dumplings and red cabbage
- Raclette or fondue
Now that we've unpacked the most important German Christmas traditions, let's explore the 5 best places to spend Christmas in Germany to truly elevate your festive season.
The Best Places to Spend Christmas in Germany
Christmas is the most beautiful time of the year, and spending it in Germany offers a truly magical experience. If you're looking for the perfect destination to celebrate Christmas, these German cities should be at the top of your list
1. Nuremberg
First on our list of the best places to spend Christmas in Germany is Nuremberg. Although Nuremberg is famous for its Christmas market, this city's winter charm goes far beyond this. With its medieval ambience, wooden stalls, and traditional gingerbread cookies (Lebkuchen), it's a winter wonderland that transports you back in time. Don't miss the lighting of the Christmas Angel, who opens the season with a heartwarming prologue from the balcony of the Church of Our Lady.
Our Hotel Pick for Christmas in Nuremberg
To fully immerse yourself in the enchanting atmosphere of Nuremberg during Christmas, we recommend staying at the elegant Dürer Hotel Nürnberg. Located in the heart of the Old Town, this boutique hotel offers easy access to the famous Christmas market and other historical attractions. With its charming decor and warm hospitality, it's the perfect home base for your holiday adventures.
2. Rothenburg ob der Tauber
Experience the magic of a medieval Christmas in Germany by staying in Rothenburg ob der Tauber. This charming Bavarian German town is like a fairy tale coming to life, featuring half-timbered houses and cobblestone streets. It's even said to be one of Germany's best-preserved towns and is a much-loved Christmas destination for couples.
When staying in Rothenburg ob der Tauber, make sure you visit The Reiterlesmarkt, one of Germany's oldest Christmas markets, which showcases unique artisanal crafts and creates a Christmas atmosphere that warms the heart and opens before the 1st Advent. This Christmas market usually takes place between the Market Square and the Church Square and typically boasts over 50 stalls. After you're done browsing the festival stalls, wander up to the Town Hall to see the windows decorated with local children's Christmas artwork.
Our Rothenburg ob der Tauber Hotel Pick
For a truly festive Christmas in Germany, stay at the authentic Hotel Herrnschloesschen located in Rothenburg ob der Tauber's old town. When staying at this beautiful hotel, you'll be steps away from the Church of St. Jakob and only a 5 minute walk from the decorative Town Hall.
3. Cologne
Another top choice for German Christmas destinations is Cologne. Explore the stunning Cologne Cathedral, a masterpiece of Gothic architecture, as snowflakes gently fall. Stroll along the picturesque Rhine River promenade, where you can take in the serene winter views and sip on warm Glühwein (mulled wine) at cosy riverside cafes. Enjoy the city's rich cultural scene, from world-class museums to enchanting theatres. Cologne offers a magical winter experience that extends far beyond the holiday season.
Our Cologne Hotel Pick
For a memorable Christmas stay in Cologne, book a room at the luxurious Excelsior Hotel Ernst am Dom. Situated right next to the Cologne Cathedral, this grand hotel combines timeless elegance with modern comforts. Enjoy breathtaking views of the cathedral from your room and indulge in gourmet dining at the hotel's Michelin-starred restaurant. It's the ultimate setting for a magical holiday experience.
4. Dresden
Dresden is a top German Christmas destination packed with things to do. When staying in Dresden, take in the city's historical architecture, which provides a picturesque backdrop for winter photography. Visit the stunning Frauenkirche and take in the serene winter views from its observation deck. Immerse yourself in the holiday spirit with Dresden's famous Stollen (fruitcake) and discover the city's rich cultural heritage through its museums and theatres.
Our Hotel Pick for Christmas in Dresden
If you're looking for a luxurious stay in Dresden this Christmas, you can't go wrong with staying at the historic Hotel Taschenbergpalais Kempinski. Nestled in the heart of the city, this opulent hotel offers luxurious accommodations and impeccable service. Admire the festive decorations adorning the hotel's interior and explore Dresden's enchanting Christmas markets just steps away.
5. Munich
Famous for Oktoberfest, Munich is a superb winter holiday destination for a multitude of reasons. This Bavarian gem seamlessly blends modernity with tradition, offering visitors a diverse and enchanting winter experience. The Marienplatz Christmas market in the heart of the city is a festive wonderland, where the impressive Glockenspiel chimes to the delight of onlookers.
Beyond the Munich Christmas market, Munich's rich cultural scene beckons with tons of fun activities like world-class museums and enchanting theatres, providing respite from the winter chill. And when it's time to warm up, cosy up with a cup of mulled wine or savour hearty Bavarian dishes like sauerkraut and sausages. Munich's unique charm, historical landmarks, and festive ambience make it a fantastic choice for a winter getaway in Germany.
Our Hotel Pick for Spending Christmas in Munich
For a Christmas in Germany filled with Bavarian warmth and hospitality, look no further than the Hotel Vier Jahreszeiten Kempinski München in Munich. This iconic Munich hotel exudes luxury and tradition, offering guests a truly festive experience. From its cosy rooms with panoramic views of the city to its world-class dining options and spa facilities, every moment spent here is magical. Immerse yourself in the festive spirit of Munich while enjoying the comfort and elegance of this renowned hotel.
6. Düsseldorf
When looking to spend Christmas in Germany, Düsseldorf is another great option with its Christmas markets offering a delightful array of crafts, foods, and festive entertainment. The city's luxury shopping street Königsallee boulevard is adorned with dazzling lights, making evening strolls a magical experience. Don't miss the "Engelchenmarkt" at Heinrich-Heine-Platz, where angel-themed decorations create a serene and enchanting atmosphere.
Additional Activities in Düsseldorf:
- Take a walk along the Rhine River Promenade and enjoy the festive lights reflecting on the water.
- Visit the Kunstpalast Museum to explore its impressive art collections.
- Enjoy ice skating at the Corneliusplatz rink.
Where to Stay in Düsseldorf:
Stay at the luxurious Breidenbacher Hof, a Capella Hotel, for an unforgettable Christmas experience in Düsseldorf. Located in the heart of the city, this elegant hotel offers refined accommodations, exceptional service, and close proximity to the city's top Christmas markets and attractions.
7. Stuttgart
Stuttgart is a fantastic city to visit during the Christmas season, offering a blend of festive cheer and cultural experiences. The city transforms into a winter wonderland with its charming streets adorned in holiday lights and decorations.
One of the highlights of Stuttgart during Christmas is its enchanting atmosphere throughout the city. You can explore the beautifully decorated squares, where you’ll find everything from festive stalls to twinkling lights. The city's lively atmosphere is complemented by the aroma of roasted chestnuts and mulled wine that fills the air.
Stuttgart also features a delightful children’s fairy-tale land, creating a whimsical experience for the little ones. But it’s not just about the markets—there are plenty of other activities to enjoy. You can visit the historic Stuttgart Castle, take a stroll through the scenic parks, or discover the city's rich cultural heritage at its world-class museums.
Additional Activities in Stuttgart:
- Visit the Mercedes-Benz Museum and learn about the history of the iconic car brand.
- Explore the Stuttgart Art Museum, which features a diverse collection of modern and contemporary art.
- Take a stroll through the beautiful Wilhelma Zoo and Botanical Garden, which is especially enchanting during the winter months.
Our Stuttgart Hotel Pick:
For a memorable stay in Stuttgart during the Christmas season, book a room at the luxurious Althoff Hotel am Schlossgarten. Located near the Schlossplatz, this hotel offers elegant accommodations, stunning views, and easy access to the city's vibrant Christmas market.
8. Breitnau
Breitnau offers a quintessential Black Forest Christmas experience. The small village in Germany is known for its scenic beauty and traditional charm, making it a serene destination for Christmas. The Ravennaschlucht Christmas market, set in a picturesque gorge, is a highlight, featuring beautifully decorated stalls and a festive atmosphere enhanced by the surrounding nature.
Additional Activities in Breitnau:
- Enjoy hiking in the Black Forest, with trails offering stunning winter landscapes.
- Visit the Hofgut Sternen Glassblowing Studio and watch artisans create beautiful glass ornaments.
- Relax at a local spa and indulge in wellness treatments inspired by the natural surroundings.
Our Breitnau Hotel Pick:
Stay at the Hofgut Sternen, a historic hotel nestled in the heart of the Black Forest. With its cosy rooms and warm hospitality, it's the perfect place to enjoy a peaceful and picturesque Christmas in Germany.
9. Mosel
The Mosel region, famous for its vineyards and charming towns, offers a unique and tranquil Christmas experience. The Christmas markets in towns like Cochem and Bernkastel-Kues are intimate and welcoming, set against the backdrop of medieval architecture and rolling vineyards. Enjoy wine tastings and scenic walks along the Mosel River during your stay.
Additional Activities in Mosel:
- Take a scenic boat tour along the Mosel River and enjoy the picturesque views.
- Visit the Reichsburg Castle in Cochem, which looks enchanting when adorned with holiday lights.
- Explore the historic wine cellars and indulge in wine tastings of the region's famous Rieslings.
Where to Stay in Mosel Germany for Christmas
For a luxurious and relaxing Christmas stay in the Mosel region, choose the Weinromantikhotel Richtershof in Mülheim. This elegant hotel offers refined accommodations, exceptional dining, and easy access to the region's Christmas markets and vineyards.
10. Essen
Essen's Christmas market is known for its stunning light displays and diverse array of stalls offering international crafts and foods. The Essen Christmas market stretches through the city centre, creating a festive and lively atmosphere. The Zollverein Coal Mine Industrial Complex, a UNESCO World Heritage site, also hosts a fun German Christmas market, blending industrial history with holiday cheer.
Additional Things to do in Essen:
- Visit the Museum Folkwang, which houses an impressive collection of modern and contemporary art.
- Take a tour of the Zollverein Coal Mine Industrial Complex and learn about its history and significance.
- Explore the Grugapark, a large botanical garden and park that is beautifully decorated during the holiday season.
Where to Stay in Essen for Christmas
For a comfortable and stylish stay in Essen, book a room at the Atlantic Congress Hotel Essen. Located near the Grugapark and within easy reach of the city's Christmas markets, this hotel offers modern amenities and excellent service for a delightful holiday experience.
Will you spend Christmas in Germany in 2024?
These festive German cities not only showcase the beauty of winter but also offer a festive atmosphere, delicious seasonal treats, and a wide range of German Christmas traditions to make your Christmas holiday truly unforgettable. Whether you're seeking historic charm, a vibrant cityscape, or a taste of the past, Germany has it all for a magical Christmas.
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