Ready for a getaway but not sure where to start? The right travel inspiration makes planning your next adventure a breeze. From vibrant cities to secluded beaches, KAYAK helps you discover it all. Explore our guides to uncover the best vacation destinations.
Ready for a getaway but not sure where to start? The right travel inspiration makes planning your next adventure a breeze. From vibrant cities to secluded beaches, KAYAK helps you discover it all. Explore our guides to uncover the best vacation destinations.
Think you know the best places to visit in the U.S.? Think again. Our U.S. travel guides will inspire you to look beyond the major attractions. Discover the unique hidden gems that make exploring America such a treat.
With so many incredible places to visit around the world, choosing your next travel destination can be tough. Luckily, we’ve done the hard work for you. Get inspired to explore somewhere new with our guides to the best vacation spots and must-visit destinations.
Whether you prefer warm weather or chilly climates, there’s always a perfect season to travel. From January to December, near or far, our guides will inspire you to choose the best destinations for every time of year.
One of the best parts of traveling is discovering new and unique experiences. From breathtaking natural wonders to curated excursions, unforgettable adventures await – no matter where you’re headed or what you love to do.
At KAYAK, we offer the best tools to help you travel smarter and make confident decisions about where to go and how to get there. From finding the best deals to sparking travel inspiration, from metasearch to budget planning, our tools take the hassle out of booking your next trip.
Great food is one of the best reasons to travel abroad. But the top foodie destinations might surprise you. From street eats to fine dining, our travel guides will get your taste buds tingling and inspire your next culinary adventure.
Everyone deserves to travel freely and without discrimination. However, accessible travel isn’t always easy, and varying laws can make visiting new destinations challenging for LGBTQ+ travelers. Find insight and inspiration through travel stories from the KAYAK community, shared by fellow explorers.
Air travel isn’t everyone’s cup of tea. Busy airports, cramped planes, and long flights are much easier to manage when you know what to expect. From flight guides to air travel tips, find the essentials that make every journey smoother.
Air travel isn’t everyone’s cup of tea. Busy airports, cramped planes, and long flights are much easier to manage when you know what to expect. From flight guides to air travel tips, find the essentials that make every journey smoother.
Not all airlines offer the same level of service, which is why there are so many flight options to choose from. Let us clear up the confusion with tips and tricks to help you understand flight classes and make the right booking decisions.
Does navigating airports fill you with dread? You’re not alone. Our airport guides offer practical advice on everything from security to duty-free shopping. Discover tips to get you to your gate smoothly, whether you’re at a small regional strip or a sprawling multi-terminal hub.
Whether you travel light or pack a wardrobe on wheels, smart packing tips can save you hassle every time you head out on an adventure. From understanding luggage size restrictions to decoding baggage fees, our guides show you how to pack efficiently for any flight and more.
Planning your next international adventure? Don’t forget your travel documents! Our detailed passport guides cover everything you need for smooth international travel – from applying for the right visas and documents to essential passport tips that simplify your journey.
Did someone say road trip? Our car rental guides will help you hit the road in comfort and style – whether it’s a sleek convertible or a family-friendly 4×4. First, navigate the maze of car types, insurance options, and driving rules. Here’s how.
Did someone say road trip? Our car rental guides will help you hit the road in comfort and style – whether it’s a sleek convertible or a family-friendly 4×4. First, navigate the maze of car types, insurance options, and driving rules. Here’s how.
Before you get behind the wheel of a rental car, make sure you’ve got the essentials covered. From choosing the right model to understanding those often-confusing rental car insurance options, here’s everything you need to know.
The rules of the road vary from country to country. If you’re planning to drive abroad, it’s essential to know what to expect before getting behind the wheel. Check out our tips for driving safely overseas, from understanding international car rental rules to navigating local traffic customs.
Can you hear the call of the open road? From epic cross-country adventures to scenic coastal drives, our road trip guides are here to fuel your wanderlust. Discover tips and ideas for planning your route, packing your car, and finding the best pit stops along the way.
Not all hotels are created equal. From cozy B&Bs and convenient roadside motels to luxurious resorts, our recommendations help you find the perfect place to stay. Whether you’re on a budget or splurging, here’s how to book your next favorite home away from home.
Not all hotels are created equal. From cozy B&Bs and convenient roadside motels to luxurious resorts, our recommendations help you find the perfect place to stay. Whether you’re on a budget or splurging, here’s how to book your next favorite home away from home.
Choosing the right place to stay can make or break your trip. From understanding hotel types to scoring the best deals, knowing what to look for can mean the difference between a restful night and a travel nightmare. Here’s what you need to know before you book.
Discover the best places to stay around the world. Our expert-curated hotel recommendations make it easy to find the perfect accommodation for your next trip. Looking for luxury, something budget-friendly, or a mix of both? Our guides will help you uncover the best hotels wherever you’re headed.
Explore the world without breaking the bank. Our budget travel guides help you save on flights, accommodations, meals and activities. Discover affordable destinations, learn how to travel smart on a budget, and unlock the secrets to cost-effective adventures that don’t skimp on fun.
Explore the world without breaking the bank. Our budget travel guides help you save on flights, accommodations, meals and activities. Discover affordable destinations, learn how to travel smart on a budget, and unlock the secrets to cost-effective adventures that don’t skimp on fun.
Travel can be expensive, but it doesn’t have to be. We’re here to help you see the world without breaking the bank. O ur budget travel tips show you how to find cheap flights, save on accommodations, and make every dollar count.
From budget-friendly European cities to sun-soaked Southeast Asian getaways, there are plenty of affordable places to travel – if you know where and when to go. The best budget destinations are often the most fun, too. See for yourself!
They say knowledge is power. The KAYAK Newsroom keeps you informed with the latest travel industry updates, so you know what’s happening in the places you want to explore. Stay up to date with news about KAYAK, our travel tools, trending destinations and more.
Ready for a getaway but not sure where to start? The right travel inspiration makes planning your next adventure a breeze. From vibrant cities to secluded beaches, KAYAK helps you discover it all. Explore our guides to uncover the best vacation destinations.
Ready for a getaway but not sure where to start? The right travel inspiration makes planning your next adventure a breeze. From vibrant cities to secluded beaches, KAYAK helps you discover it all. Explore our guides to uncover the best vacation destinations.
Think you know the best places to visit in the U.S.? Think again. Our U.S. travel guides will inspire you to look beyond the major attractions. Discover the unique hidden gems that make exploring America such a treat.
With so many incredible places to visit around the world, choosing your next travel destination can be tough. Luckily, we’ve done the hard work for you. Get inspired to explore somewhere new with our guides to the best vacation spots and must-visit destinations.
Whether you prefer warm weather or chilly climates, there’s always a perfect season to travel. From January to December, near or far, our guides will inspire you to choose the best destinations for every time of year.
One of the best parts of traveling is discovering new and unique experiences. From breathtaking natural wonders to curated excursions, unforgettable adventures await – no matter where you’re headed or what you love to do.
At KAYAK, we offer the best tools to help you travel smarter and make confident decisions about where to go and how to get there. From finding the best deals to sparking travel inspiration, from metasearch to budget planning, our tools take the hassle out of booking your next trip.
Great food is one of the best reasons to travel abroad. But the top foodie destinations might surprise you. From street eats to fine dining, our travel guides will get your taste buds tingling and inspire your next culinary adventure.
Everyone deserves to travel freely and without discrimination. However, accessible travel isn’t always easy, and varying laws can make visiting new destinations challenging for LGBTQ+ travelers. Find insight and inspiration through travel stories from the KAYAK community, shared by fellow explorers.
Air travel isn’t everyone’s cup of tea. Busy airports, cramped planes, and long flights are much easier to manage when you know what to expect. From flight guides to air travel tips, find the essentials that make every journey smoother.
Air travel isn’t everyone’s cup of tea. Busy airports, cramped planes, and long flights are much easier to manage when you know what to expect. From flight guides to air travel tips, find the essentials that make every journey smoother.
Not all airlines offer the same level of service, which is why there are so many flight options to choose from. Let us clear up the confusion with tips and tricks to help you understand flight classes and make the right booking decisions.
Does navigating airports fill you with dread? You’re not alone. Our airport guides offer practical advice on everything from security to duty-free shopping. Discover tips to get you to your gate smoothly, whether you’re at a small regional strip or a sprawling multi-terminal hub.
Whether you travel light or pack a wardrobe on wheels, smart packing tips can save you hassle every time you head out on an adventure. From understanding luggage size restrictions to decoding baggage fees, our guides show you how to pack efficiently for any flight and more.
Planning your next international adventure? Don’t forget your travel documents! Our detailed passport guides cover everything you need for smooth international travel – from applying for the right visas and documents to essential passport tips that simplify your journey.
Did someone say road trip? Our car rental guides will help you hit the road in comfort and style – whether it’s a sleek convertible or a family-friendly 4×4. First, navigate the maze of car types, insurance options, and driving rules. Here’s how.
Did someone say road trip? Our car rental guides will help you hit the road in comfort and style – whether it’s a sleek convertible or a family-friendly 4×4. First, navigate the maze of car types, insurance options, and driving rules. Here’s how.
Before you get behind the wheel of a rental car, make sure you’ve got the essentials covered. From choosing the right model to understanding those often-confusing rental car insurance options, here’s everything you need to know.
The rules of the road vary from country to country. If you’re planning to drive abroad, it’s essential to know what to expect before getting behind the wheel. Check out our tips for driving safely overseas, from understanding international car rental rules to navigating local traffic customs.
Can you hear the call of the open road? From epic cross-country adventures to scenic coastal drives, our road trip guides are here to fuel your wanderlust. Discover tips and ideas for planning your route, packing your car, and finding the best pit stops along the way.
Not all hotels are created equal. From cozy B&Bs and convenient roadside motels to luxurious resorts, our recommendations help you find the perfect place to stay. Whether you’re on a budget or splurging, here’s how to book your next favorite home away from home.
Not all hotels are created equal. From cozy B&Bs and convenient roadside motels to luxurious resorts, our recommendations help you find the perfect place to stay. Whether you’re on a budget or splurging, here’s how to book your next favorite home away from home.
Choosing the right place to stay can make or break your trip. From understanding hotel types to scoring the best deals, knowing what to look for can mean the difference between a restful night and a travel nightmare. Here’s what you need to know before you book.
Discover the best places to stay around the world. Our expert-curated hotel recommendations make it easy to find the perfect accommodation for your next trip. Looking for luxury, something budget-friendly, or a mix of both? Our guides will help you uncover the best hotels wherever you’re headed.
Explore the world without breaking the bank. Our budget travel guides help you save on flights, accommodations, meals and activities. Discover affordable destinations, learn how to travel smart on a budget, and unlock the secrets to cost-effective adventures that don’t skimp on fun.
Explore the world without breaking the bank. Our budget travel guides help you save on flights, accommodations, meals and activities. Discover affordable destinations, learn how to travel smart on a budget, and unlock the secrets to cost-effective adventures that don’t skimp on fun.
Travel can be expensive, but it doesn’t have to be. We’re here to help you see the world without breaking the bank. O ur budget travel tips show you how to find cheap flights, save on accommodations, and make every dollar count.
From budget-friendly European cities to sun-soaked Southeast Asian getaways, there are plenty of affordable places to travel – if you know where and when to go. The best budget destinations are often the most fun, too. See for yourself!
They say knowledge is power. The KAYAK Newsroom keeps you informed with the latest travel industry updates, so you know what’s happening in the places you want to explore. Stay up to date with news about KAYAK, our travel tools, trending destinations and more.
Enchanting displays of Christmas lights. Wonderfully warming winter food. Cozy, festive atmospheres. Munich Christmas markets are the perfect places to enjoy holiday cheer and do your seasonal shopping.
With numerous Christmas markets in Munich popping up every year, you’ll have plenty of choice. Ready to plan your Munich winter break? Pack your hats, gloves and scarves, and get ready to discover the best winter markets in this stunning German city.
Winter Wonderland: the history of Munich Christmas Markets
Winter markets in Munich are part of a rich cultural tradition. In fact, the tradition of putting on Munich Christmas Markets dates all the way back to the 14th century when the first winter market was held in the city’s main square.
These early medieval markets in Munich were places where local crafters, bakers, and artisans could sell their wares. They were also where people could come together and celebrate Christian festivals during the winter in Germany. Today, the modern Munich Christmas markets still feature stalls, crafts, and plenty of places to eat, drink, and be merry.
The 10 best Munich Christmas Markets
Staying in Munich’s city center for your next winter escape? You’ll be in the ideal location to enjoy some of Munich’s most spectacular Christmas markets. And if you’re keen to know which ones to add to your Christmas bucket list, here are some of my favorites:
Dates 2025: November 25 to December 24, Monday – Saturday 10 a.m. – 9 p.m., Sundays 10 a.m. – 8 p.m., December 24 10 a.m. – 2 p.m.
Hosted in Munich’s main Marienplatz Square, the Marienplatz Christmas market is the city’s original winter festival. It has been held there since medieval times, making it one of the oldest Christmas markets in the world.
The market is set up outside the incredible neo-Gothic town hall in the city center, giving it an authentic and romantic feel. Adults can browse the many stalls selling carved pieces for nativity scenes. Meanwhile, children can enjoy the free crafts workshops hosted throughout the market.
The Marienplatz Christmas market also features live bands playing traditional folk music and Christmas songs. They perform from the town hall balcony throughout the season. The main square is easy to reach from different parts of the city, with an S-Bahn station and a metro station just a few minutes walk away.
Dates 2025: November 17 to December 22, daily from 11 a.m. – 9 p.m., December 22 11 a.m. – 8 p.m.
The Christmas Village, outside the historic Kaiserhof Residenz City Palace, is one of the most magical Christmas markets in Munich. The historical location gives it an authentic medieval feel, while the puppet shows and fairy tale sets make it truly magical for kids. It’s also a great choice if you want to see artisans at work. The fair usually features a wide range of merchants who are more than happy to put on a show for their customers.
The market’s central location means it’s easily accessible, no matter where you’re staying in Munich. The Residenz is right next to Odeonsplatz Underground Station and also on several main bus routes. This Munich Christmas market’s dates generally run from mid-November, giving you heaps of time to enjoy all the fun.
Viktualienmarkt is one of Munich’s best food markets and it really comes alive during the holidays. The market offers a great spread of traditional snacks, beers, and spicy mulled wine. For some added Christmas magic, the organizers also set up a Nativity Scene in the beer garden each year. It’s additionally decorated with some of the most beautiful Christmas lights in the city.
You can find Viktualienmarkt between the Residenz and Marienplatz, right beside the National Theatre. It’s near the central underground and bus stops, too. Although the food market is open all year round, most of its Christmas produce is available from early November until the first week of January.
Dates 2025: November 24 to December 23, daily from 11 a.m. – 9 p.m.
If you want to experience the unique flavors of historical tradition in Munich, don’t miss the Medieval Christmas Market. It’s hosted on Wittelsbacherplatz, near the Residenz Palace, and showcases a great range of traditional artisan stalls. The stallholders usually dress up in medieval clothing, adding to the festival’s otherworldly and authentic feel.
The Medieval Market is an incredible place for food lovers to visit as many stalls sell traditional German cuisine. Tuck into some traditional German baking that’s all prepared on-site or try some authentic grilled meats fresh from the fire. It’s also the perfect place to sip mulled wine or a traditional drink called Drachenglut (a type of mead).
Are you looking for a Munich Christmas market with a bustling festival atmosphere? The Tollwood Winter Festival is one of the city’s most dynamic winter celebrations. It’s held in Theresienhohe and combines art, theatre, and traditional food, plus an incredible New Year’s celebration. Get ready to enjoy live musical performances, participate in events related to nature and ecology, or simply marvel at the amazing light displays.
The festival generally takes place until late December, with rides and events continuing until the amazing New Year’s Eve party. Tollwood also offers tons of free events for kids and is close to several U-Bahn (underground) stations.
Mulled wine is essential if you want to truly experience a traditional German Christmas. Held in the forest of Bogenhausen on the northeast outskirts of Munich, the Mulled Wine Festival is the perfect place to sample spiced wines and other tasty Christmas drinks.
Visitors to the festival can sip on a variety of beverages and tuck into delicious and authentic festive snacks. This includes plenty of traditional Christmas treats like marzipan, gingerbread, and stollen. The festival also hosts free activities for kids such as carousel rides, puppet shows and storytelling events.
This festive event takes place at the Cosmibad festival grounds and is easily accessible via tram lines 16 and 37. You can also reach the grounds via U-Bahn (underground) line U4.
Dates 2025: November 28 to December 24, Monday to Friday from 12 to 8.30 p.m., Saturday and Sunday from 11 a.m. to 8.30 p.m., Christmas Eve from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.
If you love arts and crafts, Schwabing Christmas Market should be on your radar. This Munich Christmas market is home to a famous annual sculpture trail and an art tent where you can peruse local artists’ work. It also hosts unique art installations each year and offers lots of free workshops and various live performances.
The Schwabing Market takes place near Tivoli and is on a major tram line. The market is also near the Bonner Platz Underground Station, making connecting to the city center very easy.
Dates 2025: November 27 to December 28, December 24 closed
If you want to capture the enchantment of Christmas in a cozy, outdoor setting, you must visit the Fairy-tale Bazaar Christmas market at Olympiapark. The market features a range of stalls selling artisanal crafts, jewelry, and classic Bavarian delicacies. There are also lots of entertaining workshops and play areas for kids.
One of the best things about the Fairy-tale Bazaar is the snug bar right in the heart of the festival where you can enjoy a glass (or two) of mulled wine. This Munich Christmas market is an ideal day out for anyone who loves to get outside and explore natural surroundings.
Dates 2025: November 20 to December 23, Monday – Friday 5 p.m. to 10 p.m., Saturday – Sunday 1 p.m. to 10 p.m.
The Moonlight Express Christmas market (Mondscheinexpress) is a truly unique experience for visitors in Munich, combining an industrial location with a cozy Christmas feel. This Christmas market sees the disused train tracks and the surrounding area transformed into a festive grotto, with arts and crafts stalls, live music, and cabaret performances.
It’s a great place to spend a fun, romantic evening or grab a glass of mulled wine and catch up with friends. Of course, there’s also a vibrant market with all kinds of wares on sale. You’ll find the Moonlight Express market close to multiple underground stations too, making it easy to reach from the city center.
Dates 2025: November 24 to December 23, daily from 11 a.m. to 8:30 p.m.
Neuhauser Market is an excellent place to pick up some handmade Christmas decorations or buy some Christmas gifts. This Munich Christmas market specializes in crafts like candles, soaps, and decorative items. It’s also generally a lovely, relaxing place to spend time.
Feeling lucky? The market has a raffle that visitors can participate in, plus regular live music performances. You can find the Neuhauser Market near Rotkreuzplatz Square. The square handily has tram stops, an underground station, and is on several bus lines.
Christmas markets in Munich start in late November. They usually stay open right up until Christmas Day (sometimes even longer). This gives you over a month to soak up all their festive delights.
Absolutely! Munich’s Christmas markets are among some of the oldest in the world and are bound to get you in the festive spirit. The atmosphere at them is always joyful, plus there’s no shortage of traditional treats to try. Whether you’re shopping for gifts or want to experience local traditions, they’re well worth traveling for.
Munich’s Christmas markets are scattered all over the city, so it doesn’t really matter where you book to stay. For easy access to big hitters like the Marienplatz Christkindlmart, book a Munich hotel in the heart of the city center.
Annika ZiehenAnnika is an author, foodie and diver. Originally from Germany, Annika now travels the world, constantly on the lookout for the tastiest plate of noodles, and either frog fish or sharks. She writes about her experiences above & below the water surface on her blogs The Midnight Blue Elephant and The Very Hungry Mermaid. Follow her on Instagram for more travel inspiration.
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