Heidelberger Christmas Markets are annual holiday markets held in the city of Heidelberg, Germany. The market runs from Monday, November 27, 2023 and closes on Friday, December 22, 2023. Heidelberger has other Christmas markets, namely, Marktplatz Square Market and Kornmarkt Square Market, that attract 1.5 million visitors to enjoy the festive atmosphere each year. The markets feature over 150 wooden stalls selling traditional German Christmas gifts, decorations, ornaments and food. Market stalls offer hot mulled wine and sweets like gingerbread and roasted almonds. The market highlights additional events, such as musical performances scattered around town.
What are the Heidelberger Christmas Markets?
Heidelberger Christmas Markets are traditional Christmas markets held annually in Alstadt of Heidelberg, Germany. The Christmas market opens on Monday, November 27, 2023 and closes on Friday, December 22, 2023. The markets feature 140 decorated wooden huts and stalls selling traditional German Christmas foods, sweets, mulled wine and handicrafts.
Heidelberger Christmas Markets originate from Germany's long tradition of Christmas markets, which began in the Late Middle Ages. The market has become one of Germany's most famous and beloved Christmas markets, attracting over 1.5 million visitors each year. The markets embody centuries of German Christmas tradition, from the craftsmanship of the ornaments and decorations to the smells of roasted nuts and gingerbread.
Listed below are the best Christmas markets in Heidelberger.
- Marktplatz Square Market. Marktplatz Square Market, located in Altstadt, Heidelberg, opens its Christmas market on Wednesday, November 15, 2023 and closes on Thursday, December 23, 2023. The Heidelberg Christmas Market opens annually in Marktplatz Square, attracting 3 million visitors. The market features over 140 stalls selling gifts, decorations, traditional German foods and drinks. Attractions include an ice rink, carousel rides and live music. Marktplatz Square is in Heidelberg's pedestrian zone and accessible via tram lines 22, 23 and 24 to the Universitätsplatz stop. Heidelberg's main train station is 2 kilometers away, with regular buses and trams to the old town. The square sees high visitor numbers as a popular tourist destination in Heidelberg.
- Kornmarkt Square Market. Kornmarkt Square, located in Altstadt, Heidelberg, opens its Christmas market on Wednesday, November 27, 2023 and closes on January 01, 2024. The historic pedestrian zone transforms into a traditional Christmas market with 150 vendor stalls, drawing over 1 million visitors annually. The square is surrounded by Town Hall, Church of the Holy Spirit and castle ruins overlooking the Neckar River banks. Kornmarkt is accessible by regional trains to Heidelberg central station 1 kilometre away, with buses to the city center. By car, the A5 autobahn reaches Heidelberg, with parking at garages around the old town. Visitors can walk through the festive lanes to reach the Christmas market stalls.
1. Marktplatz Square Market
Marktplatz Square Market is located in Altstadt in Heidelberg, Germany. It is the central square of Heidelberg and a popular Christmas market destination. The square was first built in the early 13th century and has been the site of Heidelberger Christmas markets. Marktplatz Square opens on Wednesday, November 15, 2023 and closes on Thursday, December 23, 2023.
Marktplatz Square Market opens annually and attracts 3 million Christmas market visitors each year. The square is a traditional German Christmas market with over 140 wooden stalls around the square selling gifts, decorations, ornaments and seasonal food and drinks. Some stalls sell Christmas tree ornaments, nutcrackers, smoked goods, cheeses, wines, arts and crafts made by local artisans and traditional German holiday baked goods like stollen, gingerbread and honey cookies. The center of the square features an ice rink for skating. Children's rides, like a carousel, are installed during the Christmas market. Live music and entertainment take place daily on an open-air stage. Musicians, school choirs, dance groups and theatre troops perform traditional Christmas carols, plays and shows.
The square is located in the center of Heidelberg's pedestrian zone and is easily accessible by public transportation. Visitors can take tram lines 22, 23 or 24 and get off at the Universitätsplatz stop to the Marktplatz. The Heidelberg main train station is 2 kilometers (1.2 miles) away, with buses and trams running frequently to the old town.
2. Kornmarkt Square Market
Kornmarkt Square Market is located in the center of Altstadt in Heidelberg, Germany. The square is surrounded by historic buildings such as the Town Hall and the Church of the Holy Spirit. It sits on the banks of the Neckar River and is known for its castle ruins and historic old town. Kornmarkt Christmas Market draws over 1 million visitors each year. It is one of the most popular and visited Christmas markets in Germany. Kornmarkt Square Market opens on Monday, November 27, 2023 and closes on Monday, January 01, 2024. The Christmas market features 150 decorated stalls selling traditional Christmas foods, sweets, gifts, crafts and more. Vendors sell roasted almonds, gingerbread, stollen, roasted chestnuts and glühwein (mulled wine). There are stalls with handmade wooden toys and decorations, jewelry, knitwear, books and international cuisine.
Heidelberg is located 75 kilometers (46 miles) south of Frankfurt. It is accessible by train, bus or car. The Heidelberg central train station is 1 kilometer (0,6 miles) from the Kornmarkt square. There are regular regional trains from Frankfurt, Stuttgart, Mannheim and other major German cities. Buses run from the train station to the city center. By car, Heidelberg can be reached via the A5 autobahn and parking is available at garages around the town. The Christmas market itself is pedestrian-only. Visitors can walk through the historic narrow lanes decorated with lights to reach the market.
When will the Heidelberger Christmas Markets open for 2023?
Heidelberg Christmas Markets opens on Monday, November 27, 2023 and closes on Friday, December 22, 2023. Marktplatz Square opens on Wednesday, November 15, 2023 and closes on Thursday, December 23, 2023. Kornmarkt Square opens on Monday, November 27, 2023 and closes on Monday, January 01, 2024.
Where are the Heidelberger Christmas Markets taking place?
Heidelberger Christmas Markets are taking place throughout Altstadt of Heidelberg, centered along Main Street of Haupstrasse. Marktplatz Square Market is located in the central Marktplatz (Market Square) in Altstadt. Kornmarkt Square Market is located on the banks of the Neckar River and is known for its castle ruins and historic old town.
Why should you visit the Heidelberger Christmas Market?
Listed below are the reasons why you should visit the Heidelberger Christmas Market.
- Centuries of Tradition. Centuries of tradition from the 1800s, the Heidelberger market lets you immerse in deep-rooted German Christmas customs. The markets feature roasted chestnuts, intricate glasswork and generations-old skills that reflect their rich German culture.
- Regional Activities. Regional activities such as workshops let you craft traditional wreaths and decorations and observe artisans demonstrate glassblowing, woodcarving and more at the Heidelberger Christmas markets.
- Quality Artisan Gifts. Quality artisan gifts from 140 vendors that sell specialized gifts like smoked glass ornaments, nutcrackers and cuckoo clocks. Skilled artisans from the region and across Germany sell their expertly crafted wares that are not easily found elsewhere.
- Postcard-Worthy Views. Postcard-worthy views at the Heidelberger Christmas markets set against the panorama of the Neckar River and Heidelberg's iconic castle ruins make the scene look straight from a Christmas postcard.
What is the cost of entering the Heidelberger Christmas Market?
Heidelberger Christmas Market does not charge an entry fee. Access to the market squares and streets is completely free. Visitors can wander the stalls, displays and attractions without needing to buy a ticket. The only optional costs involved would be fees for food and beverages, rides, workshops and concerts. Food and Beverages such as Christmas treats, snacks and mulled wines sold at the vendor stalls range in price from €2 ($2, £1) to €8 ($8, £7) per item. Rides on Merry-Go-Round charges start from €10 ($10, £8). Workshops like wreath-making have participation fees of €5 ($5, £4) and above. Concerts such as special Christmas choral performances and events may require tickets purchased in advance at a price point of €10 ($10, £8).
What are the attractions close to the Heidelberger Christmas Market?
Listed below are the attractions close to Heidelberger Christmas Markets.
- Heidelberg Castle. Heidelberg Castle is a historic castle and fortress located on a hill above the city of Heidelberg. It was built in the 13th century and houses ruins and intact buildings. The castle has Gothic, Renaissance and Baroque architecture. It attracts over 1 million Christmas visitors per year and has gardens, a museum and views of Heidelberg. It is 0.8 kilometers (0.5 miles) from the Heidelberger Christmas markets.
- Old Bridge. Old Bride is a famous stone bridge that crosses over the River Neckar in Heidelberg's Altstadt. The bridge was built in 1786 and is a popular spot to view the city and river. This famous stone bridge over the River Neckar built in 1786 draws over 500,000 Christmas market visitors annually. It is 1 kilometer (0.6 miles) from the Heidelberger Christmas markets.
- Philosophenweg. Philosophenweg is a walking trail that runs along the northern side of Heidelberg's hills with panoramic views over the city. It follows the River Neckar for 2.5 kilometers (1.6 miles). The trail passes historic sites and lookout points. Many poets and philosophers walked here for inspiration. It is 1.5 kilometers (0.9 miles) from the Heidelberger Christmas markets, which cater to over 250,000 Christmas market visitors per year.
- Church of the Holy Spirit. Church of the Holy Spirit is located 0.2 kilometers (0.1 miles) from the Heidelberger Christmas markets. This church was built in the 15th century and features stained glass windows and the tomb of Prince Elector Ruprecht III.
Is there an alternative name for the Heidelberger Christmas Market?
Yes, the Heidelberger Christmas Market is known as the “Heidelberger Weihnachtsmarkt”. Weihnachtsmarkt is the German name for the Christmas market. Heidelberger Weihnachtsmarkt directly translates to “Heidelberg Christmas Market” in English.
The two names Heidelberger Christmas Market and Heidelberger Weihnachtsmarkt, refer to the same annual Christmas market held in Heidelberg, Germany. Weihnachtsmarkt is the native German name for this popular seasonal market.
What are the Heidelberger Christmas Markets' Impacts on the Local Economy and Tourism?
Heidelberger Christmas Markets have a significant positive impact on the local economy and tourism in Heidelberg. These are revenue generation, employment, promotion of local businesses, preservation of tradition and tourism growth. Revenue Generation for the Christmas markets generates significant revenue for local businesses, vendors, hotels, restaurants and attractions. Employment as many local jobs are supported by the markets, including vendor stalls, food and beverage services, transportation, entertainment and more. Promotion of local businesses provides exposure for many Heidelberg businesses, allowing them to sell their products and services to a large audience of potential new customers. Preservation of Traditions as the markets help preserve and promote local culture and heritage, including traditional crafts, foods, music and celebrations. German tourism growth as the markets help attract visitors to Heidelberg and the surrounding region during the winter months. Improved infrastructure as the revenue generated enables further investment in infrastructure to improve the city for both locals and tourists, such as transportation, facilities and restoration of historic sites.
Are Heidelberger Christmas Markets better than Düsseldorf Christmas Markets?
Yes, Heidelberger Christmas Markets is better than Düsseldorf Christmas Markets. Düsseldorf Christmas Market in terms of the setting, size, tradition, navigation and authenticity. Heidelberger has a more scenic setting along the Neckar River, overlooking the Heidelberg Castle ruins, that provides an authentic old-town German Christmas market ambiance. Heidelberger offers a more intimate atmosphere since it only has 2 Christmas markets. Heidelberger focuses more on traditional handmade crafts and foods that showcase German heritage and artisanship. The compact Heidelberger markets are easier to walk around and Heidelberger Christmas markets provide a more authentic traditional German Weihnachtsmarkt experience
What food can visitors eat at the Heidelberger Christmas Market?
Listed below are the local German foods visitors can eat in the Heidelberger Christmas markets.
- Flammkuchen. Flammkuchen are thin-crust German pizzas that are topped with cream, onions, bacon and cheese and then baked fresh on-site. The crisp warm flatbread is an ideal snack. Flammkuchen stands can be found all over the Heidelberg Christmas markets.
- Schupfnudeln. Schupfnudeln are small dumplings made from potato dough and are served tossed in buttered breadcrumbs or sauerkraut. This finger food is a regional delicacy at the Heidelberg Christmas markets.
- Roasted almonds. Roasted almonds are freshly roasted almonds coated in sugar or salt and are sold in paper cones. They make for a perfect sweet and salty snack while strolling through the market. Vendors sell them throughout the Heidelberg Christmas markets.
- Bratwurst. Bratwurst are classic grilled German sausages served on a roll or a plate with sauerkraut. From pork to veal varieties, bratwurst is a hearty meal. Bratwurst is sold at many food stalls at the market.
- Lebkuchen. Lebkuchen are traditional soft gingerbread cookies, often coated in chocolate or decorated with icing and are a Christmas market favorite. The dense, spice-filled lebkuchen is for sale as a sweet treat.
What to drink at the Heidelberger Christmas Markets?
Listed below are the drinks you can have at Heidelberger Christmas Markets.
- Glühwein (Mulled Wine). Glühwein is a traditional hot spiced red wine that is a must-have drink at any Christmas market in Germany. Glühwein is available at Heidelberger Christmas markets. It is usually served in commemorative mugs that you can take home.
- Hot chocolate. Hot chocolate is made from high-quality couverture chocolate melted with hot milk or cream. It is often served with a mountain of fresh whipped cream and chocolate shavings on top at Heidelberger Christmas markets with flavors like salted caramel.
- Eierpunsch. Eierpunsch gets its rich consistency from egg yolks whipped with wine or cider, rum or brandy, vanilla and spices. It is often topped with whipped cream and ground cinnamon or cocoa powder. Eierpunsch is usually made fresh at the Heidelberger Christmas markets.
- Apfelpunsch. Apfelpunsch is a non-alcoholic apple punch made from pressed apple cider heated up with lemon juice, oranges, cloves, cinnamon sticks and sugar. Vendors sell it at Heidelberger Christ markets by the cup to enjoy while walking around.
What can people buy at the Heidelberger Christmas Market?
Listed below are the things you can buy at Heidelberger Christmas Markets.
- Heidelberg Ornamental Wares. Heidelberg Ornamental Wares are glass mugs, cups and Christmas balls painted or engraved with scenes of Heidelberg's landmarks like the Old Bridge and Heidelberg Castle are popular ornamental souvenirs. These make great, memorable keepsakes and are displayed at Heidelberg Christmas markets.
- Packaged Treats. Packaged treats like chocolate, stollen, lebkuchen and candy are neatly packaged in Christmas tins and boxes to take home or gift. These German confections allow you to sample local flavors available at Heidelberg Christmas markets.
- Artisanal Wooden Toys. Artisanal Wooden Toys are hand-carved wooden trucks, trains, planes, rocking horses and spinning tops that make old-fashioned toys for children available at Heidelberger Christmas markets. These toys reflect traditional German crafts.
- Decorative Candles. Decorative Candles made from beeswax candles shaped into Christmas decorations like stars, trees and angels make fragrant holiday decor. These candles are packaged as souvenirs at Heidelberg Christmas markets.
How to get to the Heidelberger Christmas Market?
There are four ways to get to Heidelberger Christmas Markets. These are by plane, train, metro, taxi and on foot. Firstly, by plane, Fly into Frankfurt Airport (FRA) or Stuttgart Airport (STR). Take the hourly shuttle train to Heidelberg Main Station (1 hour ride) from the airport. Take the shuttle bus to Stuttgart main station, then train to Heidelberg (1.5 hours ride). Take a taxi from either airport directly to Heidelberg (1 hour ride). Secondly, by train, take a direct train to Heidelberg Main Station (Hauptbahnhof) from cities like Frankfurt, Stuttgart, Munich, etc. Walk for 15 mins or take tram line 22 or bus 31/32 to Altstadt (10 mins ride). Thirdly, by metro, take tram line 22 or bus 31/32 from the Heidelberg Main Station to the Bismarckplatz stop in Altstadt. The ride is 10 minutes from the main station. Fourthly, by taxi, taxis are available at Heidelberg Main Station, Frankfurt and Stuttgart airports. Taxis can take you directly to the Altstadt area and drop you off near the Christmas markets. Last, on foot, the Christmas markets are a 5-10 minute walk away if you are staying in the city center. Markets are located in several small plazas and streets in the pedestrian zone of Altstadt.
Where to stay in Heidelberger during the Heidelberger Christmas Market?
Listed below are the best hotels to stay near the Heidelberg Christmas Markets.
- Hotel zum Ritter St. Georg. Hotel zum Ritter St. Georg is a 4-star hotel located 0.1 kilometers (0.06 miles) from the city center of Altstadt. The historic hotel has been welcoming guests since 1592 and features stylish, contemporary rooms. This hotel is decorated for Christmas with festive trees and lights in the lobby. The cozy bar serves glühwein and seasonal treats. Many rooms overlook the main Christmas market, which makes the stay in Germany worthwhile.
- Hotel Europäischer Hof Heidelberg. Hotel Europäischer is located in a historic building dating from 1865, this 5-star luxury hotel is located 0.5 kilometers (0.3 miles) from the Heidelberg Christmas markets. The hotel provides elegant rooms with marble bathrooms, a spa and a Michelin-starred restaurant.
- ADVENA Hotel Heidelberg. ADVENA Hotel Heidelberg is a contemporary hotel in the city center of Altstadt, located 0.5 kilometers (0.3 miles) from the Heidelberger Christmas markets. The hotel offers comfortable, recently renovated rooms and amenities like free breakfast, gym, bar and bike rentals.
- Hotel Villa Marstall. Hotel Villa Marstall is located 0.8 kilometers (0.5 miles) from the Heidelberger Christmas markets. The hotel is a neo-classical mansion from 1914, with rooms that feature antique furnishings, marble baths and artwork. The hotel has a courtyard, restaurant and historic wine cellar.
What are the best restaurants to eat in Heidelberger?
Listed below are the best restaurants in Heidelberger.
- Vetter's Alt Heidelberger Brauhaus. Vetter's Alt Heidelberger Brauhaus is a traditional German brewery and restaurant located 0.6 kilometers (0.4 miles) from Heidelberg Christmas markets. The restaurant serves classic Bavarian fare like schnitzel, roast pork, spätzle and sausages alongside their own fresh, unfiltered beer, with a starting price point of €12 ($13, £10) per meal.
- Kulturbrauerei Heidelberg. Kulturbrauerei Heidelberg is a former brewery from the 1500s, this restaurant offers creative seasonal dishes using fresh, local ingredients. Their menu features venison stew and duck breast with cranberry compote that costs €18 ($19, £15) and above. They have a nice selection of Heidelberg regional wines and are located 0.6 kilometers (0.4 miles) from the Heidelberg Christmas markets. The proximity of the restaurant makes eating in Germany and enjoying the Christmas season the visitors enjoy of best of both worlds.
- Zur Herrenmühle. Zur Herrenmühle is a restaurant in an old mill house that overlooks the River Neckar. They serve traditional German dishes like sauerbraten and flammkuche at a starting price of €15 ($16, £13). The restaurant provides live jazz music to entertain its visitors. Zur Herrenmühle is located 0.9 kilometers (0.6 miles) from the Heidelberg Christmas markets.
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