If there were an unofficial home of Christmas, Germany would take the crown. With cities all over the country coming to life during the festive season, it’s the perfect location for embracing everything Christmas, featuring bustling markets, enchanting events, and delicious food and drink, all enjoyed with a chill in the air.
Hamburg is one of the gems in Germany’s Christmas crown, and a popular stop on our Christmas cruises. From the twinkling wooden huts to the smell of mulled wine in the air, Hamburg hits the mark in every way when it comes to getting into the festive spirit.
In this guide to Hamburg’s Christmas markets, we give you all the need-to-know information from their start date to the best things to buy – read on to find out more.
When do Christmas markets start in Hamburg?
The exact dates of each market’s opening change each year and vary from market to market; however, the majority open in late November and close before Christmas Eve.
Traditionally, the markets would open for Advent (the fourth Sunday before Christmas), but in more modern times, they open slightly earlier so they can be enjoyed for longer.
Where are the Christmas markets in Hamburg?
The most iconic and popular Christmas market is Rathausmarkt – Hamburg’s Historic Christmas Market. Located in the central square beneath the iconic town hall, this traditional Roncalli market lights up the heart of Hamburg every year. As the largest and most popular in the city, it’s a one-stop shop for all things festive.
Just north of Rathausmarkt is Jungfernsteig Christmas Market. Located on the bank of Binnenalster Lake, Jungfernsteig is atmospheric and charming – it even boasts a historic Ferris wheel which has been in operation since 1899!
Another popular waterside spot, the Fleetinsel Christmas Market is located on an ‘island’ between the Alster and Elbe rivers. With views over the city’s well-loved canals and of the nearby historic ships, this charming market provides all of the festive fare you expect, in its own, unique location.
Gängeviertel Christmas Market is located in the city’s “alleyway quarter” and offers an alternative option, focusing on independent traders, artists and craftspeople. With a less commercial offering, if you’re looking for something you truly couldn’t get anywhere else, Gängeviertel is the market to visit.
The highlights of Hamburg's Christmas Markets
The Christmas markets of Hamburg boast a range of highlights that make them unique and exciting, even for repeat visitors.
Firstly, the diverse selection of markets on offer is one of the city's best features. From Santi Pauli in the red light district to the maritime market of Fleetinsel, there are plenty of unique and original locations to explore around the city.
Another highlight and must-see for those in Hamburg over Christmas is the famous Flying Santa. Taking to the skies over the Town Hall Square at 4 pm, 6 pm and 8 pm daily, see Santa Claus in his sleigh on his reindeer as he waves down to the market crowds.
Fun Fact: The same man – Rambo Bügler – has manned the sleigh for the full 20 years that Santa has flown over the town hall square.
The exceptional food and drink on offer is another highlight. With a series of traditional offerings, you’ll be able to indulge in the festive atmosphere and some delicious bites! From steaming hot glühwein to freshly grilled bratwurst, you’ll be dreaming of the stalls here long after you return home.
There is also plenty more to do in Hamburg besides the Christmas markets. From the world’s largest model railway at Miniatur Wunderland to Speicherstadt, the city’s historic, UNESCO-listed warehouse district, there is plenty to enjoy.
You might also like: Five reasons to celebrate Christmas on a cruise
What to eat, drink and buy at Hamburg Christmas Markets
You don’t need to buy anything to make a visit to Hamburg’s Christmas markets enjoyable, but it’s definitely better if you do. From iconic eats to the best buys, we've compiled a list of purchases you should consider.
What to eat at Hamburg Christmas Markets
If your stomach is rumbling already, then watch out, as there are some delicious dishes to get your hands on whilst browsing Hamburg’s festive markets…
- Bratwurst – this iconic Christmas treat is a classic German sausage, often cooked over a fire and served in a bun with toppings.
- Currywurst – a sliced Bratwurst covered in curry ketchup and curry powder.
- Raclette – melted cheese scraped onto an item of your choosing, often bread or potatoes.
- Lebkuchen – German gingerbread cookies, often in a heart shape and adorned with messages.
- Stollen – a rich, sweet bread loaded with dried fruit and nuts and covered in powdered sugar.
What to drink at Hamburg Christmas Markets
You’ll need something to wash down that delicious food…
- Glühwein – the German for mulled wine and the most popular Christmas market drink. It’s often served in a mug that you pay a deposit for and get refilled (many people choose to keep their mug as a souvenir rather than get their deposit back!).
- Eierpunsch – a sweet and creamy alcoholic drink, this drink is similar to eggnog and offers a delightful way to warm up as you explore.
- Grog – another drink guaranteed to warm you up. Grog is made from rum, sweetened with sugar and spices.
- Hot chocolate – a classic festive drink, a steaming mug of hot chocolate is one of the perfect accompaniments to browsing stalls at any Christmas market.
- Beer – it may be Christmas, but you still can’t overlook Germany’s brewing prowess, and there are also local brews on offer to those who prefer.
What to buy at Hamburg Christmas Markets
Whether you’re gift shopping or looking for a souvenir, some choice items should be top of your “to buy” list when browsing Hamburg's markets…
- Advent calendars – a classic Christmas item, a traditional Advent calendar is something you can cherish for years to come.
- Nutcrackers – traditional German nutcrackers are handcrafted and beautiful, perfect for a gift or a reminder of your trip.
- Mugs – most markets have unique mugs with their name or a festive design on them. You receive one when purchasing a glühwein and can opt to take the mug with you (instead of getting your deposit back upon departure).
- Festive ornaments – whether a bauble for the tree or an intricate wooden carving, there will be myriad festive ornaments to choose from as you browse the stalls.
FAQs about Hamburg Christmas Markets
Which Hamburg Christmas market is best for first-time visitors?
If it’s your first time in Hamburg, we recommend you start at Rathausmarkt. This is the city’s largest and most iconic market, and is the perfect place to start.
What can I expect to find at the markets?
Hamburg’s Christmas markets centre around stalls selling handmade crafts, unique gifts and delicious food and drink. Each has a relaxed atmosphere, with people shopping or simply enjoying the festive atmosphere. Every market has its unique allure, so be sure to check out more than one to get an authentic taste of what Christmas is about in Hamburg.
What should I keep in mind for my visit to Hamburg’s Christmas markets
- Peak times – the markets get busier in the evenings, so if you prefer to shop with a lighter crowd, try to go around midday or early afternoon.
- Weather – although there is plenty going on, Hamburg can get cold in the festive months, so try to bring a layer with you to slip on in case you get chilly.
- Payment – some stalls will only accept cash, so if you are coming to buy, it can be worth bringing some euros with you.
- Mugs - you’ll likely be charged a deposit for your mug when you get your first drink. If you return the mug, you’ll get this back, or you can decide to take the mug home as a souvenir instead if you prefer.
Visiting Hamburg Christmas Markets on a cruise
Visiting Hamburg’s Christmas Markets is easy with Fred. Olsen. Our cruises from the UK bring you to the city, giving you the chance to relax on board surrounded by Christmas decorations with a drink in hand whilst you travel – precisely what the festive season is all about!
Many of our cruise holidays visiting Hamburg at Christmas are planned to include an overnight stay, giving you more time to soak up the merriment by day and night. Get to know Hamburg and browse the iconic wooden huts during the day. As the sun sets, warm up with a steaming mug of glühwein and watch the lights twinkle.