Stuttgart Christmas Market is one of the oldest and largest Christmas markets located at Marktplatz, Downtown Stuttgart in Germany. The market opens on Sunday, November 29, 2023 and closes on Saturday, December 23, 2023. Stuttgart Christmas Market attracts over 3 million visitors each year, providing a boost to the local economy and tourism. The market features over 250 wooden stalls selling Christmas foods, baked goods, ornaments, arts, crafts and gifts and access to the market squares and streets is completely free. The festive atmosphere, traditional German food and drinks like bratwurst and mulled wine and holiday entertainment make the Stuttgart Christmas Market a must-see event that offers an authentic German Christmas experience.
What is the Stuttgart Christmas Market?
The Stuttgart Christmas Market is one of the oldest and largest Christmas markets in Germany. The first official Stuttgart Christmas market was recorded in the year 1784. Stuttgart Christmas Market opens on Sunday, November 29, 2023 and closes on Saturday, December 23, 2023. It has become one of the largest and most popular Christmas markets in Germany, attracting over 3 million visitors each year. The market features over 250 decorated wooden stalls selling a wide variety of Christmas foods, baked goods, ornaments, arts and crafts and other gifts.
The market has continued to expand since the 19th century, with more stalls and events added over time. It closed during WWII but reopened in 1947 with around 40 stalls and has grown steadily in the postwar years. It was moved to Schlossplatz in 1997 and later expanded across other squares, with entertainment and events added to enhance the festive atmosphere In recent decades, more entertainment, events and activities have been added to enhance the festive atmosphere. The Stuttgart Christmas Market attracts both locals and tourists from around the world.
When will the Stuttgart Christmas Market open for 2023?
The Stuttgart Christmas Market opens on Sunday, November 29, 2023 and closes on Saturday, December 23, 2023. It is open from Monday through Thursday from 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. on Friday and Saturday from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. and on Sunday from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m.
Where is the Stuttgart Christmas Market taking place?
The Stuttgart Christmas Market is located at Marktplatz, Downtown Stuttgart, with Latitude and longitude coordinates of 48.783333 and 9.183333. The market spans across Schlossplatz and Schillerplatz,
Why should you visit the Stuttgart Christmas Market?
Listed below are the reasons why you should visit the Stuttgart Christmas market.
- Traditional German Food and Drinks. Traditional German food and drink is one of the highlights of the Stuttgart Christmas market. Vendors serve up bratwurst sausages, potato pancakes, roasted almonds and chestnuts and freshly baked stollen fruit cake. You can also enjoy a mug of warm, spiced mulled wine or hot cider as you walk around the Christmas market.
- Handmade Crafts. Handmade Crafts such as ornaments, toys and souvenirs are made locally by artisans from the Stuttgart Christmas market. You can find unique decorations like smoked-glass baubles, nutcracker dolls, carved wood figures, advent calendars, bee wax candles and more. Browsing and buying the crafts is a great way to find special mementos.
- Easy Access in the City Center. Easy access in the city center as Stuttgart's Christmas market location makes arriving hassle-free. You can take the train, use public transport or park in one of the many nearby garages.
- Special Events and Concerts. Special events and concerts scheduled provide performances for the Christmas season. Visitors can enjoy choirs, jazz bands, children's shows, candlelight shopping nights and craft demonstrations. The program of events means each visit provides something new and to look forward to the Stuttgart Christmas market.
What is the cost of visiting the Stuttgart Christmas Market?
Stuttgart 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 rides, special events, food, drinks and craft demonstrations. Rides to carousels require tickets ranging from €2 ($2, £1) to €8 ($8, £7) per ride. Special events such as live shows, Christmas plays and events in the market require separate tickets ranging from €5 ($5, £4) to €10 ($10, £8) per event. Food and drinks and other beverages cost between €2 ($2, £1) to €8 ($8, £7). Craft demonstrations such as workshops, cookie decorating and ornament making require paid registration from €5 ($5, £4) and above.
What are the attractions close to the Stuttgart Christmas Market?
Listed below are the attractions close to the Stuttgart Christmas market.
- Wilhelma. Wilhema is a botanical garden located 1 kilometer (0.6 miles) from the Stuttgart Christmas market. Wilhelma has over 9,000 animals across 1,200 species in various enclosures and biomes, as well as impressive greenhouses containing around 50,000 plant species. Visitors can easily spend hours exploring the 30-hectare grounds and learning about wildlife conservation, which draws 5,000 to 10,000 Christmas market visitors daily.
- Evangelische Schlosskirche. Evangelische Schlosskirche is located in the main Schlossplatz, where the Stuttgart Christmas market is held. The Evangelische Schlosskirche's stunning interior features high vaulted ceilings, ornate carvings and artistic frescoes, along with an original Silbermann organ dating back to the 18th century. The church caters to 1,000-2,000 Christmas market visitors every day due to its location.
- Glanzlitcher Stuttgart. Glanzlitcher Stuttgart is located just 0.5 kilometers (0.3 miles) from the Stuttgart Christmas market. This mall museum is dedicated to the history of lights and lighting. It displays a fascinating collection of lamps, chandeliers, neon signs and other lighting elements spanning centuries of design. The dazzling displays get visitors into the holiday spirit. The Christmas season attracts between 500 to 1,000 Christmas market visitors interested in the lighting displays while enjoying the market.
Is there an alternative name for the Stuttgart Christmas Market?
Yes, Stuttgart Christmas Market is commonly referred to by its German name “Stuttgarter Weihnachtsmarkt”, by locals and German speakers. “Weihnachtsmarkt” simply means “Christmas market” in German. The full German name translates to “Stuttgart Christmas Market”. The main English name is the Stuttgart Christmas Market. The alternative German name is “Stuttgarter Weihnachtsmarkt”. This directly translates to “Stuttgart Christmas Market” in English.
What are the Stuttgart Christmas Market's impacts on the Local Economy and Tourism?
Stuttgart Christmas Market has a significant positive impact on the local economy and tourism in Stuttgart. These provide income opportunities for thousands of local workers, increase sales for local retailers and restaurants, generate additional tax revenue for Stuttgart city and Germany, drive tourism spending on lodging, dining, shopping and attractions and provide international exposure and boost Stuttgart's image. The market requires vendors, servers, cooks, cleaners, drivers, guides, security staff and more to run the Christmas market stalls and events, creating thousands of temporary Christmas jobs and income sources for locals. Visitors often shop and dine at stores and eateries in the wider city, increasing sales for retailers, restaurants, bars and other establishments. From the rental fees collected from market stall vendors to sales tax on purchases, the city earns extra tax revenue during the Christmas market season. Visitors flocking to the market spend additional money at local hotels, restaurants, stores, museums and landmarks, further benefiting tourism businesses. The market's reputation helps advertise Stuttgart as a top Christmas destination, adding to its international visibility and brand image.
Are the Stuttgart Christmas Markets better than the Nuremberg Christmas Market?
Yes, the Stuttgart Christmas Market is better than the Nuremberg Christmas Market in terms of duration, market size and tourism impact. The market opens on November 29th and closes on December 23rd, spanning almost a month. The Stuttgart Christmas Markets are one of the largest in Germany, spanning across multiple city squares and streets and featuring over 250 stalls, which makes the scale and scope of Stuttgart's market greater. The market attracts over 3 million visitors annually, providing a significant boost to the local economy and tourism industry.
What food can visitors eat at the Stuttgart Christmas market?
Listed below are the local German foods visitors can eat at the Stuttgart Christmas market.
- Steak Wecken. Steak Wecken is a round yeast roll with salt and caraway seeds on top. The top of the roll is cut off, the bread hollowed out slightly, then filled with the warm steak and onions and closed back up to make a sandwich. Steak Wecken is a signature dish found at food stalls throughout the Stuttgart Christmas market.
- Lebkuchen. Lebkuchen is a traditional gingerbread in Stuttgart. The cookies are made with a dense honey dough and coated with chocolate or powdered sugar. Heart-shaped lebkuchen are popular Christmas gifts and are displayed at the Stuttgart Christmas market.
- 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 stalls can be found all over the Stuttgart Christmas market.
- Reibekuchen. Reibekuchen are fried potato pancakes with applesauce, sugar or other sweet toppings. They are served at stalls in the Stuttgart Christmas market, where they are made fresh to order.
- Bratwurst. Bratwurst is grilled over a wood fire and is a popular savory food. The best bratwurst has a perfect snap when you bite into it and a blend of pork and spices. It is paired with mustard and sauerkraut and served at stalls in the Stuttgart Christmas market.
What to drink at the Stuttgart Christmas Market?
Listed below are the drinks you can have at the Stuttgart Christmas market.
- Heißer Apfelsaft. Heißer Apfelsaft is a hot spiced apple cider made by slowly heating fresh pressed apple cider from Baden-Württemberg with cinnamon sticks and cloves. It is a popular non-alcoholic drink option at the Stuttgart Christmas market, especially for kids and those not drinking alcohol.
- Glühwein (Mulled Wine). Glühwein is a traditional hot spiced red wine that is a must-have drink at any European Christmas market. Glühwein is available at the Stuttgart Christmas market. It is usually served in commemorative mugs that you can take home.
- Feuerzangenbowle (fire tongs punch). Feuerzangenbowle is a potent rum-based drink that features a flaming sugarloaf that caramelizes into the wine and rum mixture. You can get a delicious cup of this drink at the Stuttgart Christmas market.
- Kinderpunsch. Kinderpunsch is a hot fruit juice beverage made specifically for children at the Stuttgart Christmas market. It typically consists of a blend of fruit juices like apple, orange or cherry mixed with water or tea and warmed up with cinnamon and lemon for flavor.
What can people buy at the Stuttgart Christmas Market?
Listed below are the things you can buy at the Stuttgart Christmas market.
- Christmas Ornaments. Christmas Ornaments are decorative objects used to adorn Christmas trees and homes during the holiday season. Ornament stalls at the Stuttgart Christmas market offer a variety of glass, wooden and handcrafted ornaments featuring Christmas symbols and designs. These make for great holiday souvenirs and gifts.
- Stuttgarter Weihnachtsmarkt Mugs. Stuttgarter Weihnachtsmarkt mugs are commemorative mugs featuring new designs each year that can only be purchased at the Stuttgart Christmas market, making them popular collectibles and souvenirs.
- Dogs of the Augsburger Puppenkiste. Dogs of the Augsburger Puppenkiste are crafted stuffed dogs and puppets of characters from the Augsburg Puppet Theatre and are specialty items only available at their booth in certain Stuttgart Christmas markets.
- Glass Ornaments from Lauscha. Glass Ornaments from Lauscha are skilled artisans who demonstrate centuries-old glass-blowing techniques from the Lauscha region to create stunning ornament designs sold exclusively at the Stuttgart Christmas market.
How to get to the Stuttgart Christmas Market?
There are four ways to get to the Stuttgart Christmas market. These are by plane, train, metro, taxi and on foot. Firstly, by plane, Stuttgart Airport (STR) is 13 kilometers (8 miles) South of the City Center. Take the S2 or S3 train from the airport to Stuttgart Main Station (Hauptbahnhof). The Christmas Market is about a 10-minute walk from the station. Secondly, by train, Stuttgart Hauptbahnhof is a major hub for trains in Germany. There are direct trains from cities like Frankfurt, Munich, Nuremberg, etc. The market is right outside the station. Thirdly, by metro, take the U-Bahn lines U5, U6, U7 or U15 to stop at Schlossplatz. Fourthly, by taxi, Taxis are available from the airport or any part of the city. The fare from the airport to the city center is around €30-40. Ask to be dropped off at Schlossplatz or Schillerplatz. Lastly, on foot, the Christmas market is within walking distance since it spans several squares and streets adjacent to the Main Station. Follow signs for the Schlossplatz and Schillerplatz.
Where to stay in Stuttgart during the Stuttgart Christmas Market?
Listed below are the best hotels to stay near the Stuttgart Christmas market.
- EmiLu Design Hotel. EmiLu Design Hotel is 0.4 kilometers (0.3 miles) from the Stuttgart Christmas Market located. The hotel features stylish, minimalist décor with rooms equipped with rainfall showers, Nespresso machines and soundproofed windows. Guests can enjoy breakfast in the on-site bistro and lounge in the urban garden. The hotels’ proximity to the Christmas market events makes it the best place to stay in Germany during the Christmas season.
- Der Zauberlehrling. Der Zauberlehrling is located 0.3 kilometers (0.2 miles) from the Stuttgart Christmas market. Der Zauberlehrling is a 4-star hotel housed in a historic building from 1912. The rooms blend modern amenities with classic features like wood floors, high ceilings and artwork. Visitors can start their day with a tasty breakfast buffet before strolling the market. The hotel's location is considered one of the best places to stay in Germany.
- Das Edith. Das Edith offers sleek rooms 0.9 kilometers (0.6 miles) away from the Stuttgart Christmas market in the downtown area. The contemporary rooms feature designer furniture, rainfall showers, Nespresso coffee makers and panoramic windows. It has easy access to trams and the underground U-bahn metro system outside the hotel. Das Edit is considered one of the best places to stay during your visit to the Stuttgart Christmas Market and Germany.
What are the best restaurants to eat in Stuttgart?
Listed below are the best restaurants in Stuttgart.
- Cube Restaurant. Cube Restaurant is 0.4 kilometers (0.3 miles) from Stuttgart Christmas market. This Michelin-starred restaurant located on the top floor of the Kunstmuseum Stuttgart offers creative modern French cuisine paired with stunning city views. The tasting menus showcase the chef's innovations, like foie gras lollipops and oysters with black currant champagne. Cube is considered one of the top fine dining experiences to eat in Germany.
- Restaurant Ochsn-n Willi. Restaurant Ochsn-n Willi located 0.3 kilometers (0.2 miles) from the Stuttgart Christmas market, serves authentic Swabian dishes. Restaurant favorites include Maultaschen (stuffed pasta), Spätzle noodles and the signature Ochsn-n Willi Teller showcasing regional smoked hams and sausages. They serve the famous giant pork knuckle, which is a classic example of traditional German cuisine.
- Empore. Empore is located 1 kilometer (0.6 miles) from the Stuttgart Christmas market, allowing visitors to access both cultural attractions easily. The restaurants' seasonal menus focus on modern European cuisine accented with regional touches, like pike perch with local lentils. They have an extensive wine list and attentive service and is one of the top fine dining to try in Germany.
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