Imagine stepping into a snow-covered forest, the scent of mulled wine in the air, torchlight flickering off the trees, and a glowing Ravenna Gorge Christmas Market nestled beneath a towering 40-meter-high viaduct.
This isn’t a dream—it’s the Ravenna Gorge Christmas Market in Germany’s Black Forest, and it might just be the most magical holiday experience in Europe.
I mean I thought it was!
Whether you’re planning your first solo winter escape or looking for the perfect holiday trip with your best friends ( Girls Trip, HAAAY!), this guide gives you everything you need to experience the magic of Germany’s Ravenna Gorge Christmas Market in 2025—torchlight hike included.
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Table of Contents
What Is the Ravenna Gorge?
The Ravennaschlucht Gorge is a stunning natural ravine located in the southern part of the Black Forest, near the town of Hinterzarten in Baden-Württemberg, Germany.
The centerpiece of the gorge is the iconic Ravenna Bridge—a 40-meter-high stone viaduct that carries the Höllentalbahn (Hell Valley Railway) above the market site.
This architectural marvel dates back to the 19th century and creates the jaw-dropping backdrop for the annual Christmas market.
The area’s historic charm is accentuated by remnants of old mills and trading routes that once ran through the forest. Today, the viaduct is illuminated with festive lights each winter, transforming the dramatic landscape into a glowing holiday postcard.
Why the Ravenna Gorge Christmas Market Is Worth It (Especially in 2025)
This isn’t your average European Christmas market.
Set deep in the Ravenna Gorge (or Ravennaschlucht), this market feels secretive and exclusive—in part because it actually is.
Now, I know there are other bloggers out there who will pose the question, ” Is the Ravenna Gorge Christmas Market worth it?” Yes, and here is why I think it is:
- Location, location, location. Beneath the stunning Ravenna Viaduct, the entire market is framed by forested cliffs, snowy trees, and twinkling lights.
- Torchlight arrival. You can literally hike through the Black Forest by torchlight (Fackelwanderung) to arrive at the market—yes, it’s as magical as it sounds.
- It’s limited-access. Only open on select weekends and ticketed to control crowds, it never feels chaotic or commercialized.
- Perfect for beginner travelers. Easy to get to by train or shuttle. You don’t need a car, and English is widely spoken.
- Safe and festive for solo travelers. I went with a friend, but would have felt 100% comfortable solo.
Need help planning your route? Check out my full guide to the Ravenna Gorge Torchlight Hike for step-by-step details on how to make the magical walk part of your experience.
2025 Ravenna Gorge Christmas Market Dates & Ticket Details
Market Dates and Ticket Details
Expected Dates: Fridays–Sundays, from November 21 to December 14, 2025 (to be confirmed)
Opening Hours:
Friday: 3 PM – 9 PM
Saturday: 2 PM – 9 PM
Sunday: 2 PM – 8 PM
Ticket Prices:
Entry before 4 PM: €5.50
Entry after 4 PM: €7.50
Shuttle + Entry from Freiburg: €24.00
Parking (must be reserved): €8.00
When to Buy:
Tickets go on sale mid-October 2025 on the Hoch Schwarzwald official website.
Prime time slots, torchlight hikes, and on-site parking sell out quickly!
How to Get to the Ravenna Gorge Christmas Market
Comparison Chart for Transportation methods
| Transport Method | Where You Start | How It Works | Best For | Cost Estimate (2025) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 🚆 Train | Freiburg, Basel, Titisee | Take the S1/S10/S11 lines to Hinterzarten or Himmelreich | Solo travelers, car-free adventurers | €10–€20 one-way |
| 🚌 Shuttle Bus | Freiburg, Titisee, Hinterzarten | Direct shuttle to market (must book with entry ticket) | Beginner travelers, groups | €24 (includes entry ticket) |
| 🚗 Car | Anywhere in Germany or nearby countries | Drive & park at reserved lots (must book in advance) | Groups or travelers with mobility needs | €8 for parking + fuel tolls |
| ✈️ Plane | Basel, Zurich, Stuttgart | Fly in, then take a train to Hinterzarten or shuttle to the market | International visitors | Varies (plus local transport) |
By Train: The Scenic & Stress-Free Option
How it works:
Hop on a Deutsche Bahn regional train (S1, S10, or S11) toward Hinterzarten, Himmelreich, or Titisee. All three are near the market, but Hinterzarten is the most common stop for torchlight hikers.
- From Freiburg: Direct trains every 30–60 minutes.
- From Basel: Connect in Freiburg or Titisee (~1.5 hours total).
- From Stuttgart/Munich/Zurich: Connect through Freiburg.
Why it’s great:
Solo Traveler Tip
Sit on the right side coming from Freiburg for forest views!
By Shuttle Bus: The Easiest Option If You Hate Planning
How it works:
Shuttles depart from Freiburg, Titisee, and Hinterzarten and go directly to the market entrance. You must pre-book your shuttle when you buy your ticket online in October.
- Timed departures and returns
- No parking stress
- Available Friday–Sunday during market dates
Why it’s great:
By Car: Doable—But You Must Book Parking in Advance
How it works:
Drive to the Ravenna Gorge and follow signs to the reserved parking area. Parking is limited and must be booked ahead of time when you buy your ticket.
- Roads are windy, especially in winter
- Signage will direct you to “Ravennaschlucht Weihnachtsmarkt”
Why it works for some:
✅ Good for groups with gear or mobility issues
✅ More flexible timing than trains
Why it’s tricky:
By Plane: Flying In? Here’s What to Do Next
Airports near the market:
| Airport | Distance to Ravenna Gorge | Train Time to Hinterzarten |
|---|---|---|
| EuroAirport Basel | ~80 km | ~1.5 hours |
| Zurich (ZRH) | ~125 km | ~2 hours |
| Stuttgart (STR) | ~175 km | ~2.5–3 hours |
Next steps:
From the airport, take a regional train or Flixbus to Freiburg, then transfer to a local train or shuttle.
What The Ravenna Gorge Christmas Market is Like: Food, Drinks, and Market Vibes
With over 40 artisan stalls, the market delivers a cozy, curated atmosphere. You won’t find commercial chaos here—just locals selling handmade crafts, warm foods, and festive drinks. The wooden stalls are wrapped in twinkling lights, and there’s a sense of magic in the air the second you arrive.
The Ravennaschlucht Christmas Market offers a mouthwatering selection of traditional German holiday treats, with something to please every palate. The wooden stalls that are set up are covered in beautiful Christmas lights and create a beautiful atmospheric vibe.
One of the must-try drinks at the market is Rudi’s Glühwein, where they sell a warm, spiced mulled wine that’s perfect for sipping as you wander through the stalls. For something a bit more festive, visitors can enjoy Füerfzangenbowle, a theatrical and sweet concoction of wine, rum, and sugar, flambéed at the stall for a truly magical experience. I almost burnt my eyebrows off with this one!
The sight of it being prepared is as captivating as the drink itself. It was hilarious to even try to ask the crew at Rudi’s for this, as they had to spot check my pronunciation.
Must-Try Eats & Drinks:
- Rudi’s Glühwein: Sweet, spiced mulled wine—classic.
- Füerfzangenbowle: A flaming wine-and-rum concoction (my eyebrows barely survived!)
- Currywurst: Sausages + spiced ketchup = heaven.
- Bratpilze: Fried mushrooms. Addictive.
- Kartoffel Puffen: Crispy potato fritters.
- Langos: Deep-fried flatbread topped with cream and cheese.
- Hot Macaroni: Cheesy comfort food, perfect in the cold.
- Schwarzwälder Bratwurst: A juicy, regional favorite.
The Prices at the Ravennaschlucht Christmas Market
I would say come prepared to spend some money while here, as I thought the prices were a bit high, but for a specialty Christmas market, what do you expect?
I pulled about €100 out and spent about €60, so I guess that is not bad.
Drinks range from €6 to €12. The Food is about the same. You do get large portions in my opinion. If you are with a group, why not sample items and have a smorgasbord?
Watch My Visit on TikTok: Want a peek at the magic in motion? Click here to watch the full video on TikTok and see what it’s like to arrive at the market under the glowing Ravenna Viaduct.
Where to Stay Near Ravenna Gorge
I based myself in Titisee and highly recommend it, especially for first-time travelers to the Ravenna Gorge Christmas Market.
It’s well-connected, scenic, and has great accommodation options.
Want more options? Scroll to the interactive accommodation map to find a spot that suits your style and budget.
My friend Kristy opted to stay at Gastehaus Sandvoss. She loved her stay there as it was private, the bed was comfortable, and quite close to the train station!
Try the Torchlight Hike (Fackelwanderung)
This 45-minute hike from Hinterzarten to the market is guided, beginner-friendly, and done entirely by torchlight. You’ll see twinkling trees, old mill homes, and the forest glowing under firelight. It’s available in English and German, with two guides—one for each language.
Book early—it fills fast!
Want the full story, with hiking tips, photos, and what to expect?
Read my full guide to the Ravenna Gorge Torchlight Hike here.
Other Christmas Markets Nearby
Make a full festive itinerary with these nearby markets:
- Freiburg Christmas Market – Big city energy, beautiful stalls
- Schönwald – Germany’s highest Christmas market
- Löffingen St. Nicholas Market – Historic charm and cozy vibes
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Ravenna Gorge Christmas Market safe for solo travelers?
Absolutely. Well-lit, easy to navigate, with friendly locals and plenty of English spoken.
Can I do it as a beginner traveler?
Yes! The transport is easy, signage is clear, and people are helpful.
Is it worth it in 2025?
100%. It’s limited, immersive, and incredibly scenic. One of the best Christmas markets I’ve visited.
Where can I stay nearby?
Titisee and Hinterzarten are great choices. Both are close to shuttle routes and offer cozy stays for every budget.
What should I wear?
Dress warmly! Layers, waterproof boots, gloves, and a hat are musts—especially for the hike.
Final Thoughts
The Ravenna Gorge Christmas Market isn’t just a place—it’s an experience. Whether you’re arriving by train, hiking through snow with a torch in hand, or sipping flaming wine under a glowing bridge, this market brings the wonder of the holidays to life.
For solo female travelers, beginner adventurers, or anyone craving a meaningful winter escape—it’s absolutely worth it.
➡️ Ready to go? Book early, pack warm, and let the Black Forest work its magic.
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Looking for other Christmas Markets to Check out in Europe?
