Thinking of exploring the Heidelberg Christmas markets? Here’s what you need to know!
2023 update: Heidelberg’s Christmas market will be open November 27 – December 22!
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Heidelberg Christmas Markets
Heidelberg Christmas markets give a taste of a small city market. It’s definitely bigger than a village, but not so spread you can’t walk to them all easily. They cover several squares off the main road of the Old Town, with booths dotted on the main road too. They run from Universitätsplatz to Karlsplatz. Most years there’s also one at Bismarkplatsz, but last year they consolidated to have fewer entry checkpoints. This year, announcements make it sound like they’ll be back up to their full Christmas market glory!
In addition to the classic options, the Heidelberg Christmas market offers Feuerzangenbowle, a version of gluhwein with sugared liquor added. It’s sweeter than typical gluhwein and sometimes you’ll see them light the sugar-soaked rum if you’re lucky!
These are particularly kid-friendly markets. Each one has some kind of kiddo ride or carousel, and there’s plenty of space so you don’t feel crowded in.
While the Heidelberg markets were fun, I’ll be honest: they weren’t my favorite. I’m not saying that you shouldn’t go, but if you’re coming over to Europe from the States I wouldn’t prioritize these for the markets alone.
That being said, I loved the city itself! It has a ton of fascinating history and is the perfect size for a few days of exploring. But don’t come only for the Christmas markets.
Staying in Heidelberg
Need a place to stay in Heidelberg? I highly recommend Lotte Hostel! It’s only a block from the Christmas markets, and staying there feels more like a home than a hostel or hotel. They offer both dorm rooms and double rooms, and their prices are great! I loved it and would absolutely stay again.
Depending on how much time you want to spend meandering the markets, you can do Heidelberg Christmas markets in a day trip. Add in exploring the town and castle and call it a day and a half?
Want more info on the Heidelberg Christmas markets? Try their official site for more details.
Final thoughts: if you only have time for one city for Christmas markets, I’d recommend something like Cologne, Prague, or Salzburg over this one. But Heidelberg is still a great Christmas market as an add-on destination to a multi-city trip! It has all the magic of Christmas markets in a beautiful town.
Want more of Christmas in Europe? Follow along on Instagram as I explore!
