What to expect at Hamburg Christmas Markets
Ah, the holiday season is upon us and there’s no better way to get into the festive spirit than by wandering through the twinkling wonderland that is Hamburg’s Christmas markets. You might be headed to Hamburg for the Holiday season and be wondering the following:
- is Hamburg a good place to visit for Christmas Markets?
- is Hamburg worth visiting during Christmas?
- Where is the best place to stay in Hamburg for Christmas Markets?
With their charming stalls overflowing with handmade gifts, delicious treats, and enough gluhwein to keep you warm all winter long, these markets are a must-visit for anyone looking to immerse themselves in yuletide cheer. I was so lucky to be invited by Come to Hamburg for a PR trip to discover their Christmas Markets around the city.
So grab your coat, dust off your jingle bells, and let’s dive headfirst into this merry madness!
Want to see my other posts that revolve around Christmas? ⬇️
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Hamburg at a Glance: Lets Get Situated
Overall, Hamburg offers a mix of history, culture, and modernity every season. Whether you’re exploring its maritime heritage, enjoying its music scene, or relaxing by the Alster, exploring Christmas Markets there’s something for everyone in this bustling, yet laid-back, German city
You can explore the UNESCO-listed Speicherstadt, a historic warehouse district, and take harbor tours for unique views.
St. Michael’s Church, or “Michel,” is an iconic landmark, offering stunning city views from its tower. For a fascinating experience, visit Miniatur Wunderland, the world’s largest model railway exhibition. The Elbphilharmonie, a modern concert hall atop a historic warehouse, is another architectural marvel.
The Reeperbahn, Hamburg’s famous entertainment district, is known for its nightlife and Beatles history. The city also boasts impressive museums like the Kunsthalle and International Maritime Museum, as well as a thriving theater scene.
For nature lovers, Hamburg has beautiful green spaces, including Alster Lake, perfect for outdoor activities, and Planten un Blomen park, offering peaceful gardens. The city’s food scene celebrates seafood, traditional dishes like “Franzbrötchen” (cinnamon pastry), and international flavors.
With a rich history as a member of the Hanseatic League and modern cultural offerings, Hamburg is a city of contrasts that appeals to all interests.
Getting Around: Navigating Hamburg with Ease
Hamburg’s efficient U-Bahn and S-Bahn systems make it easy to travel between the Hamburg Christmas markets and major attractions. With direct connections to St. Pauli, Jungfernstieg, and Holstenwall, you’ll have no trouble hopping from one festive stop to the next.
The S-Bahn (S1) offers a direct, 25-minute ride to the central train station, Hauptbahnhof. It’s a comfortable and efficient way to travel, with trains running regularly throughout the day.
The Hamburg Metro app is a helpful tool for navigating Hamburg’s public transport system. It provides detailed maps and route planners for the city’s metro, bus, and train services. With offline access, you can easily plan your journey, check real-time schedules, and find the fastest routes to your destination, whether you’re using the S-Bahn, U-Bahn, or buses.
It’s especially useful for first-time visitors who want a stress-free way to explore the city. You can download the app directly on the Google Play Store.
Hamburg Card
The Hamburg Card is a convenient tourist pass designed to make exploring Hamburg Christmas Markets easier and more affordable. It provides unlimited access to public transportation (buses, trains, and ferries) within the Greater Hamburg Area, as well as discounts on a variety of attractions, tours, and dining options.
Key Features:
- Unlimited Public Transport: Includes the U-Bahn, S-Bahn, buses, and even harbor ferries.
- Discounts: Reduced entry fees for museums, exhibitions, and sightseeing tours.
- Group Options: Available for single travelers or groups of up to five people.
Pricing and Availability:
The card is available for durations ranging from 1 to 5 days, making it ideal for short visits or longer stays. It can be purchased online, at ticket machines, or tourist information centers in Hamburg.
The Hamburg Card is an excellent way to save money while enjoying the city’s extensive transportation network and many attrac
Where to Stay When You Visit the Hamburg Christmas Markets
While I don’t think there is the best place to stay in Hamburg, I do think there are certain areas of Hamburg worth staying in to maximize your time.
We were put up at Motel One am Michel, ideally located for easy access to the city’s Christmas markets and attractions.
This was close to St. Michael’s Church, Reeperbahn and St. Pauli were only 600 meters away.
We walked to many of the Hamburg Christmas Markets from here and utilized the Hamburg transportation system. While this was a hosted stay, some of the things that I immediately noticed
What I loved: Quiet and comfy rooms, Close to the action and metro stops, friendly staff, and you could stow your luggage and explore the city a bit after check-out, it was family-friendly. Sustainable practices and even Green Key Certified.
What I didn’t love: Hard to find seating during breakfast as it was BUSY, packed elevators.
If this happens to be beyond your budget, why not check out this map of places to stay in Hamburg that suit your needs and budget? Select the dates, and number of travelers and play with a filter to find accommodations!
Budget Friendly
This is in the St. George area and has a Sustainability Certification by Third Party. Guests have highlighted the cleanliness of the rooms and showers. The staff received praise for their friendliness. The location is near the main station was convenient but some found the area less safe at night.
Room comfort was mixed with some finding it cosy, while others noted limited space.
Mid
This is in the Hamburg Altstadt where guests loved the central location and friendly staff at The Cloud One Hamburg-Kontorhaus. The bar was a popular spot, though breakfast received mixed reviews due to its cost.
Room comfort was appreciated, but room size was often considered small. Value for money was a common concern.
Family Friendly
Black Suite 6 Luxus in Alsternähe
Featuring garden views, Black Suite 6 Luxus in Alsternähe provides accommodation with a garden and a terrace, around 3.9 km from Hamburg Dammtor Station.
The property features city and inner courtyard views, and is 4.2 km from Inner Alster Lake.
Free WiFi is available throughout the property and Hamburg Central Station is 3.7 km away.
The spacious apartment is located on the ground floor and comes with 2 bedrooms, a flat-screen TV with streaming services and a fully equipped kitchen that provides guests with a dishwasher, an oven, a washing machine, a microwave and a toaster. Towels and bed linen are provided in the apartment. The property has an outdoor dining area.
German Christmas Market Terminology Cheat Sheet
If you are new to Christmas Markets here is a list of words that might be new to you and help you out
The Best Christmas Markets in Hamburg
There is quite an array of Christmas Markets in Hamburg and you can’t go wrong with visiting many of these. I recently found out on this trip that Hamburg has over 18 different Christmas Markets scattered throughout the city. Talk about choice overload!
Rathausmarkt Christmas Market
Dates: November 25 – December 23, 2024
Located in front of Hamburg’s City Hall, this traditional market offers handcrafted goods, festive foods, and the much-loved flying Santa, who narrates holiday stories while soaring above the market.
I loved how this market was set up in the iconic Rathausplatz. I noticed quite a few people turned their heads when Rathausplatz got brought up, thinking that they’d find rats there. However, if you know a lot about the German language it’s just simply means town hall.
Rathausmarket Christmas Market REALLY felt traditional and you can find all sorts of food here and an aisle filled with traditional toys.
We stopped here to grab a mug of Gluhwein and relax after a long day walking around Hamburg. We were also waiting for Santa to appear above us. I settled on a mug of WeiserGluwein. This seems to not hurt my stomach as much and to be honest it tastes like a pineapple gummy bear. Do with that information what you will.
A fascinating bit of knowledge is that the man who dresses up and flys across the sky, his real name is Rambo and he’s quite the lover of Christmas!
You can catch Santa flying across the sky every day at 4 pm, 6 pm, and 8 pm. You’ll want to be ready for this as it can get crowded in the market when he appears. However, the crowd becomes quiet and all you can hear are the clicks of cameras and “Ooooh’s and “Ahhhhs”
Must-Try: Schmalzkuchen (mini donuts) and Glühwein.
Pro Tip: Visit at dusk for the best holiday lights and photo ops. (I am so serious about this because it is BEAUTIFUL)
Jungfernstieg Christmas Market (Weißer Zauber)
Dates: November 25 – December 31, 2024
Set along the Binnenalster, this elegant market features white tents with sparkling lights. There’s a beautiful fir tree in the Alster lake that lights up at night. I wish I had taken more pictures of the Jungfernsteig Christmas Market, but I quite literally took pictures of the grill master at the Christmas Market. I was hungry.
We saw the Alster Lake steamboat making its rounds around the lake. It was a MAGICAL setting with the tree in the background. While I didn’t get a chance to do this, you can totally plan for this in the summer or winter in Hamburg. Check out the website here for the Alsterdampfer St.Georg Hamburg!
That being said I saw stalls selling dog treats and even a vendor selling, and I am not kidding, Witch brooms.
A can’t-miss is the Hamburg Christmas Parade which starts at MediaTech and makes it way down to the street in front of the Jungfernsteig Christmas Market. This happens every Saturday during the advent.
- Must-Try: Kaiserschmarren (pancakes) and bratwurst.
- Highlight: The Alster fir tree, beautifully illuminated on the water.
Santa Pauli Christmas Market
Dates: November 20 – December 23, 2024
Blending traditional holiday charm with St. Pauli’s edgy vibe, this market includes burlesque shows, live music, and a cheeky holiday atmosphere. Bring your patience with you because it gets packed when the Burlesque and Male Strip shows come on. YOU COULD HARDLY MOVE. That being said, the atmosphere is lively here and I would caution against bringing smaller children to this one as they might have some questions as to some of the items that are on sale.
- Must-Try: Personalized mulled wine at Santa’s pharmacy.
- Unique Feature: Adults-only entertainment options.
Marché de Noël (Bleichenhof)
Dates: November 22 – December 23, 2024
The Marche de Noel was one of my favorite Christmas Markets of the weekend as it was a chic and cozy market in the Stadthöfe ensemble, with fur-covered seating, stylish copper mulled wine cups, and beautifully decorated wooden stalls. You’ll find the Petit Noel and the Chez noel Christmas Market through the passages. Think of cozy warm furs lining benches, copper domes, and little greenhouses with bench seating. It was stunning.
The mugs were just as cute and sadly I didn’t keep the copper one.
- Must-Try: French-inspired pastries and mulled wine.
- Highlight: A stylish holiday vibe perfect for a relaxed evening.
Winter Pride St. George
Dates: November 25 – December 30, 2024
Winter Pride St. George in Hamburg is a vibrant and inclusive Christmas market that celebrates diversity and equality during the holiday season. Located in the lively St. George district, this market stands out for its welcoming atmosphere, offering a colorful blend of festive cheer and LGBTQ+ pride.
Visitors can expect to find unique holiday stalls featuring handmade crafts, local goods, and delicious seasonal treats such as Bratwurst, Glühwein (mulled wine), and sweet Lebkuchen cookies.
The market’s vibrant decor, with rainbow lights and flags, creates a joyful environment, making it a great place to shop for gifts, enjoy live performances, and connect with the local community. Whether you’re savoring traditional German food or exploring the LGBTQ+-friendly atmosphere, Winter Pride St. George offers a one-of-a-kind Christmas market experience in Hamburg, celebrating love, unity, and festive spirit.
- Must-Try: Festive cocktails and hearty street food.
- Highlight: A colorful celebration perfect for everyone.
Fleetinsel Christmas Market
Dates: November 25 – December 23, 2024
The Fleetinsel Christmas Market in Hamburg is a charming and lesser-known holiday destination that offers a cozy, intimate atmosphere away from the larger crowds. Located in the historic Fleetinsel district, this market is nestled along the beautiful canals, providing visitors with a picturesque setting to enjoy traditional German holiday treats, mulled wine, and unique gifts.
With its quaint wooden stalls, the Fleetinsel Christmas Market features handcrafted decorations, artisanal goods, and local specialties like Kartoffelpuffer (potato pancakes) and Glühwein (mulled wine). Its scenic location and peaceful vibe make it the perfect spot for those looking to experience a more relaxed and authentic Christmas market experience in Hamburg. Whether you’re exploring the charming canals or browsing through one-of-a-kind holiday crafts, the Fleetinsel Christmas Market offers a memorable holiday experience with a touch of local flair.
- Must-Try: Smoked fish sandwiches and warm Glühwein.
Weihnachtsmarkt am Michel
Dates: Select days in December, check their Official website here —Weinachtsmarkt Am Michel
Near the iconic St. Michael’s Church, this traditional market offers local goods and a stunning Advent wreath inside the church. I loved the setting of this, alas we found out it was happening the weekend before.
However, GO INSIDE the church. This is one of the most remarkable examples of baroque architecture. I couldn’t believe how beautiful this was when we walked in. White walls, gold accents, and a stunning organ. It’s even more beautiful with the Christmas Tree. The Christmas tree had golden tinsel hanging from it and I couldn’t believe my eyes.
But perhaps my favorite bit was the large advent wreath hanging from the ceiling. I found out that the advent wreath was invented in Hamburg according to Hamburg Tourismus
“The inventor of this original Advent wreath was the founder and operator of the Rough House, Johann Hinrich Wichern. Wichern was a Hamburg-born theologian who devoted his life to helping, caring for and nurturing the sick, the weak and the needy.”
- Highlight: Combine your visit with a tour of one of Hamburg’s most important churches.
The Food in the Hamburg Christmas Markets
Absolutely! The food at the Hamburg Christmas Markets is a feast for the senses, offering an authentic taste of German holiday traditions. As you stroll through the festive stalls, you’ll be greeted by the irresistible aromas of sizzling bratwurst and smoky sausages, a staple of German Christmas markets. Bratwurst is often served in a fresh roll with mustard or sauerkraut. Another must-try is the hearty Kassler, a smoked pork chop served with sauerkraut or potato salad.
For a sweet treat, be sure to sample Lebkuchen, soft gingerbread cookies decorated with icing. Hamburg’s markets also offer Stollen, a festive bread filled with dried fruits, nuts, and marzipan, dusted with powdered sugar. You can’t forget about Marzipan—a sugary almond paste that comes in many shapes and forms.
For a more indulgent snack, try Kartoffelpuffer, crispy potato pancakes served with applesauce or sour cream. Another favorite is Bratapfel, a roasted apple filled with marzipan, raisins, and cinnamon.
To wash it all down, indulge in Glühwein, the quintessential Christmas drink. This mulled wine is spiced with cinnamon, cloves, and orange peel, served steaming. If you prefer something non-alcoholic, try Kinderpunsch, a spiced fruit punch, or Hot Chocolate.
And don’t forget to sample Fischbrötchen, a local specialty of Hamburg—fresh fish served in a bun with pickles and onions.
With its mix of hearty, savory dishes and sweet treats, the food at Hamburg’s Christmas Markets offers a rich and memorable culinary experience that complements the festive atmosphere perfectly.
Other Things To Do in Hamburg
- Ice Skating at EisArena: Glide under twinkling lights at one of Hamburg’s favorite seasonal attractions. Tickets are 9.50 Euro and you can even rent your own skates — EisArena
- Elbphilharmonie: Ride the world’s longest escalator and enjoy breathtaking views of the harbor. Tickets are 3.00 Euro and you can purchase them here — Elbphilharmonie
- Bucerius Kunst Forum: They have different exhibits at the forum and it’s well worth checking out. Check out their website here– Bucerius Kunst Forum
Tours You Can Take in Hamburg
If you are itching for ways to fill your time while in Hamburg, why not check out a tour or two?
Tips for visiting Christmas markets in Hamburg
Heading to any Christmas Market this season? Be sure to check out my tips below!
- Dress warmly: Hamburg winters can be cold and damp, especially near the waterfront. Layer up with a scarf, gloves, and waterproof boots to stay comfortable.
- Get a Hamburg Card: Offers discounts and free public transportation, making it easier to travel between various market locations around the city.
- Visit during quieter times: Go early in the day or on weekdays to avoid the large crowds. Weekends and the days leading up to Christmas can be especially busy.
- Bring cash: Many stalls, at Hamburg Christmas Markets small and local ones, still prefer cash payments. While card payment is becoming more common, cash is safer.
- Warm up with hot drinks: Take a break and enjoy a steaming cup of Glühwein (mulled wine) or hot chocolate to stay cozy while exploring the markets.
- Explore lesser-known markets: Check out the smaller markets around the Historic Warehouse District and Fleetinsel for a more intimate, local experience.
- Shop for unique gifts: Look for handmade goods, like wooden ornaments, candles, and Christmas decorations, perfect for memorable gifts.
- Check out the food stalls: Don’t miss out on local treats like Kartoffelpuffer (potato pancakes), Stollen (fruitcake), and Marzipan specialties to truly taste the holiday season.
Wrapping it up: Is Hamburg worth it during Christmas Markets?
I loved my time in Hamburg and would love to come back and explore a bit of Hamburg in the spring and summer. Hamburg is incredibly easy to get around and I loved the charm of the Christmas markets in Hamburg. I say go as a solo traveler, as a family and couples. There’s no doubt that you will have so much fun in Hamburg during Christmas Market Season.
Any Questions? Feel free to connect with me on my Instagram Here
Want to read about my experience at the Hamburg Christmas Markets on Stars and Stripes?
Unfortunately as of 3/5/2025, due to DEI “crackdown” efforts by the US government this article was taken down on Stars and Stripes because I mentioned the Pride and LGBTQ markets. Certain words are not allowed on Government platforms. I am leaving this here as a nod to the fact that I did have an article published once. If you support journalism in all forms now is the time to support your friends who are in the field of journalism or writing in any way, shape or form. It’s a dark day for democracy when freedom of expression in the right way is taken away. I am in no way, shape or form blaming the publication because they did all they could. If you are American please call your representative or congresswoman/man and speak your piece.