Hamburg at Christmas - Christmas market at the town hall market; Shutterstock ID 1580307877; Purchase Order: -

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Hamburg Christmas markets

In Hamburg at Christmas, you can indulge your taste buds, explore enchanting markets, and experience magical atmospheres like no other. During a trip here, in the festive season, you won’t have to look far for fun with plenty of traditional and alternative Christmas attractions to discover.

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Cunard

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Traditional Hamburg Christmas markets

Alternative Hamburg Christmas markets

Hamburg Christmas markets with a special theme

Hamburg Christmas market FAQs

Traditional Christmas markets

With mulled wine, roasted nuts, and handmade crafts in abundance, these Hamburg markets ooze tradition.

Weihnachtsmarkt am Rathaus

From November to December, Weihnachtmarkt am Rathus Christmas market is set in front of the historic backdrop of Hamburg City Hall. Here, you‘ll find a wide selection of handmade wood carvings, gingerbread, and a special Rathausmarkt mulled wine that attracts almost three million visitors each year.

Watch Santa Claus as he flies his sleigh above your head before telling the inspiring story of Rudolf the red-nosed reindeer, and enjoy the twinkling lights of the main Christmas tree.

Gänsemarkt Christmas market

You could join the celebrations at the cozy Gänsemarkt Christmas market held at Gänsemarkt Square. Warm your hands by the fire, visit the gingerbread huts, and admire the eye-catching decorative details before warming up with a cup of Feuerzangenbowle, a traditional German drink savored on festive occasions.

Fleetinsel Christmas market

Located in the middle of Hamburg’s city center, the Fleetinsel Christmas market offers friendly hospitality and an array of traditional gifting stalls. This magical place invites you to enjoy a slow day, afternoon, or evening with family and family to embrace the Christmas spirit.

Beautiful illuminations at Weihnachtsmarkt am Rathaus in Hamburg during Christmas week

Alternative Christmas markets

For a unique experience, the city of Hamburg also provides a range of alternative Christmas markets filled with non-seasonal delights such as organic food vendors, handmade clothing, and unique gifts that are worlds away from that of a traditional market.

Winter Pride

Set within the friendly neighborhood of St.Georg, Winter Pride is recognized for its open and colorful atmosphere that travels throughout the main street, Lange Reihe. A giant sparkling reindeer takes center stage as it presides over the covered market, where you can enjoy fun entertainment shows, hot chocolate, and an array of tasty German fare.

Weihnachtsmarkt in der Fabrik

The local residents of Hamburg bring you another Christmas market at the Alte Fabrik. Typically held on the first weekend of Advent, the organizing committee invite you to indulge in the colorful market and enjoy a cheerful stage program including a classic Christmas concert. Puppet shows, fairy tales, handmade crafts, carousels, games, and gifts are all among the treats in store.

Handmade wooden decorations for sale at a Hamburg Christmas market

Christmas markets with a special theme

With a special theme at the heart of the celebration, these markets offer a Christmas experience like no other.

HafenCity Christmas market

Located at the Old Port Authority, the atmosphere of the HafenCity Christmas market is one to be treasured. Featuring all kinds of stalls and classic Christmas delicacies such as mulled wine and roasted almonds, this market will charm you further with its unique Wintergolf, free for under 18s, and merry maritime seafood platters.

Weihnachtsmarkt im Museum der Arbeit

The Museum of Work Christmas market combines celebration with sustainability. It’s an ecological fair that the whole family can enjoy. Among the local exhibitors, you will find organic foods, entertainment, and gifts made from recycled, natural materials. Activities at the Museum of Work Christmas market include Christmas card making, face painting, animal riding, and maritime-inspired crafts.

Harburg Christmas market

In Harburg’s Town Hall at Christmas time, an inviting scent of pine trees, punch, cake, and almonds lingers in the air. One of the town’s most notable traditions, the Harburg Christmas market truly brings the magic of Christmas to life. Each day, a door on the Advent calendar is opened to reveal a mystery present, puppeteers spread Christmas cheer, fairy-tale aunts tell stories from around the world, and Santa is all ears.

Bergedorfer Christmas market

Bergedorfer Christmas market takes place each year on enchanting castle grounds. Here you can browse through a range of handmade gifts, enjoy mulled wine in a cozy drinking booth, and snack on treats by the open fire. Children are welcome to participate in handicraft workshops and live performances are present on weekends to play the sounds of Christmas.

Snow and Christmas scenery by night near Hamburg

FAQs on Hamburg Christmas markets

When do Hamburg's Christmas markets open?

Christmas markets in Hamburg generally run from November to December, however specific dates are announced each year sometime in fall.

Are the markets open every day?

Most German Christmas markets open every day from the morning through until late in the evening.

What kind of products are sold at the Christmas markets?

At the Christmas markets in Hamburg you will find a wide selection of products on sale. You’ll see everything from handmade jewellery and Christmas crafts to mulled wine and other culinary delights.

Is there an admission fee for the markets?

Admission to Hamburg markets is typically free. However, there may be a small charge for activities within each venue.

What is the best time to visit the markets?

Christmas markets are generally at their busiest during weekends and in the evenings. To avoid the hustle and bustle, the best time to visit the Hamburg Christmas markets is during the day on weekdays.

Are the markets accessible for people with disabilities?

Most Christmas markets in Hamburg are located outside in a sheltered area, making them accessible for people with disabilities.

Christmas in the lobby of Queen Mary 2

View our itineraries to Hamburg on our famous flagship Queen Mary 2 or one of her sisters, or browse our Christmas voyages, where your ship is transformed into a festive wonderland in true Cunard style.