Bavaria boasts a unique range of Christmas markets – from those held in fairy-tale castle ruins and monasteries to cozy forest markets and island events. Each market is special in its own way, offering a warm atmosphere, regional treats, and traditional arts and crafts. Here are the 10 best Christmas markets in Bavaria, perfect for an unforgettable Advent experience.

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1. Nuremberg Christmas Market

As one of the most famous Christmas markets in the world, the Nuremberg Christkindlesmarkt attracts millions of visitors each year. Highlights include the “Zwetschgenmännla” (figures made of dried plums) and the iconic Nuremberg gingerbread.

• Dates: November 28 to December 24, 2025
• Special Feature: The market opens with a festive ceremony led by the Christkind, who recites poems and officially ushers in the Christmas season.

2. Christmas Market on Marienplatz, Munich

Munich’s Christmas market stretches through the old town, with a wide selection of handmade nativity scenes and figures, especially at the “Kripperlmarkt.”

• Dates: November 24 to December 24, 2025
• Special Feature: Set against the backdrop of the impressive town hall and its carillon, this market is a perfect place to experience traditional Bavarian Christmas charm in the heart of the city.

3. Regensburg Christmas Market at Thurn and Taxis Palace

Nestled in the historic Thurn und Taxis Palace, this market has a distinctly old-world Christmas atmosphere. All the stalls offer exclusively handmade goods.

• Dates: November 21 to December 23, 2025
• Special Feature: Experience Christmas as it used to be, with real candles, carolers, and the beautifully decorated palace facades.

4. Christmas Market on Fraueninsel, Chiemsee

This romantic market, set on an island in Chiemsee, can only be reached by boat and offers a tranquil, magical atmosphere by the water.

• Dates: Only on the first two Advent weekends
• Special Feature: Surrounded by fairy lights and the wintry lake, this market is especially peaceful, offering the perfect setting for a reflective break.

5. Augsburg Christmas Market

Held in the stunning Renaissance square in front of Augsburg Town Hall, this market is one of the oldest in Germany. It’s filled with artistic crafts and regional specialties.

• Dates: November 28 to December 24, 2025
• Special Feature: On Fridays and Saturdays, the Town Hall windows come alive with a charming “angel play,” featuring over 20 angels.

6. Bad Tölz Christmas Market

Set in the picturesque historic market street, this market is one of Bavaria’s most scenic. Visitors can enjoy a mix of regional delicacies, mulled wine, and traditional crafts.

• Dates: November 28 to December 24, 2025
• Special Feature: The market offers a chance to experience Bavarian traditions firsthand, including the “Perchtenlauf,” a tradition where people wear eerie masks to ward off evil spirits.

7. Berchtesgaden Advent

Against the stunning backdrop of the Bavarian Alps, the Berchtesgaden Advent market offers a cozy, festive atmosphere with regional foods and handmade goods.

• Dates: November 21 to January 3, 2026
• Special Feature: The market’s stalls are filled with traditional crafts, including hand-carved wooden figures and nativity scenes – a must for those who love Bavarian heritage.

8. Forest Christmas in Halsbach

The Waldweihnacht in Halsbach, surrounded by dark fir trees and flickering fireplaces, creates a magical, almost mystical atmosphere. The market is adorned with fairy lights and lanterns.

• Dates: November 28 to December 14, 2025
• Special Feature: The rustic, cozy market allows visitors to enjoy mulled wine by the campfire and soak in the natural sounds of the forest.

9. Burghausen Castle Christmas

Set in the world’s longest castle, Burghausen Castle hosts a medieval-inspired Christmas market where visitors can explore historical crafts and enjoy hearty rustic food.

• Dates: December 12 to 14, 2025
• Special Feature: The medieval music and historical atmosphere make this market feel like stepping into a fairy tale – a fantastic experience for the whole family.

10. Kaltenberg Castle

This unique Christmas market takes place in the historic setting of Kaltenberg Castle, offering a magical experience with thousands of lights, artistic decorations, and a fairytale-like atmosphere throughout the castle grounds.

• Dates: Fridays to Sundays on all Advent weekends – from November 28, 2025 to December 28, 2025.
• Special Feature: The extensive castle grounds transform into an atmospheric winter world of fire pits, sparkling lights, walk-about performers, and beloved fairy-tale characters.

Our conclusion: These 10 Christmas markets in Bavaria are not only extraordinary but also offer unique experiences that will make your festive season truly unforgettable. So, immerse yourself in the magic of Advent in Bavaria and make the most of this special time of year.