There’s no doubt that the holiday season in and around Munich is a magical time, especially awe-inspiring for children. Naturally one of the best ways to experience the festive spirit is by visiting the traditional German Christmas markets. If you’re new to the concept then find out what to expect from German Christmas markets here.

If you’ve already experienced the Christmas markets in Munich and want to venture out a bit further then this is the list for you!

Here are some of the most charming and family-friendly Christmas markets near Munich that promise an enchanting experience for families.

1. Nuremberg Christkindlesmarkt

The Nuremberg Christkindlesmarkt is a short train ride away and is often regarded as one of the most picturesque Christmas markets in Germany.

Some things to expect for children:

• A dedicated “Children’s Christmas” area
• Nostalgic carousel
• A steam train
• A giant Ferris wheel
• Children’s crafts
• Delicious food & christmasy snacks
  
  The market also features the iconic “Christkind,” who opens the market with a prologue from the balcony of the Church of Our Lady.

ℹ️ Opening: 29.11 – 24.12.2024
📝 View website here
📍Address: Hans-Sachs-Platz 1, 90403 Nürnberg

2. Augsburg Christkindlesmarkt

Augsburg, another Bavarian gem, hosts a charming Christmas market that offers a range of activities for kids.

Some things to expect for children:

• A petting zoo
• Pony rides
• Ferris wheel
• Delicious food & christmasy snacks

Additionally, the market is adorned with beautifully crafted nativity scenes, adding a touch of tradition to the festivities.

ℹ️ Opening: 25.11 – 24.12.2024
📝 View website here
📍Address: Rathausplatz 1, 86150 Augsburg

3. Berchtesgadener Advent

Imagine a Christmas Market with the most idyllic setting with a backdrop of the Royal palace and that is exactly what the Berchtesgaden Advent offers.

Some things to expect for children:

• Christmas tree maze
• Children’s coursel
• Children’s bakery
• Living crib: a stable with animals.

Additionally, you can expect horse-drawn carriages, historical market tours & more!

ℹ️ Opening: 22.11 – 03.01.2024
📝 View website here
📍 Address: Maximilianstraße 2, 83471 Berchtesgaden

4. Dachau Christmas Market

Just a short drive from Munich, the Dachau Christmas Market is a local gem that exudes a cozy, traditional atmosphere. In addition to the stalls selling crafts and seasonal treats, children can look forward to the magical “Christmas Forest” (Weihnachtswald) with its fairytale characters and puppet shows.

Some things to expect for children:

• Santa Claus’s visit on Dec 6th at 3:30 – 4:30 pm
• Puppet shows
• Christmas reading on Dec 10th at 2:30 – 3:30 pm
• Delicious food & christmasy snacks

One of the highlights is the daily opening of a calendar door at the town hall. With its 300 square meters, the calendar is the largest in Bavaria to date and promises exciting and valuable daily prizes in the raffle. The raffles take place daily from December 1st to 23rd at 7 p.m – more information here

ℹ️ Opening: 22.11 – 23.12.2024
📝 View website here
📍Address: Dachauer Str. 3, 85244 Röhrmoos

5. Christmas Market on Chiemsee

At Christmas time, the Fraueninsel in Chiemsee becomes a romantic winter fairy tale. It hosts 90 beautiful Christmas stalls full of the finest handicrafts, jewelry and delicious Christmas snacks.

The markets are open on the first two weekends of Advent, from Thursday to Sunday.

ℹ️ Opening in 2024: Friday to Sunday on all four Advent weekends – 13:00 to 20:00
📝 View website here
📍Address: Alte Rathausstraße 11, 83209 Prien am Chiemsee

Hope you enjoy visiting these Christmas markets with your family & friends!