abrunettetravels Last updated on November 1st, 2023 at 07:08 pm
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When people think of Christmas markets, Frankfurt often gets overlooked. Being known as a business center and hub for transportation doesn’t conjure up thoughts of Christmas cheer. To be honest, this was my thought, too until last year. Last minute changes to our Christmas market plans took us from Bavaria to Frankfurt. All I can say is, what a pleasant surprise! Keep reading for a complete list for the Frankfurt Christmas markets.
A Little Bit of History
Frankfurt is not a newcomer to the Christmas market scene. Surprisingly, their market is one of the oldest in Germany dating back to 1393. As you would expect, it now includes all of the traditional market offering of today’s markets.
Expect to find beautiful handmade gifts, traditional German Christmas decorations and, of course, food! Bratwurst, currywurst, soft pretzels, steaming hot soups, crispy potato pancakes with applesauce, apple strudel and fruits of all kinds dipped in chocolate can be found at the adorable chalets throughout the market.
Let’s take a look at where all of these awesome items can be found in this complete guide to the Frankfurt Christmas markets.
Where to Visit
There are 4 main markets in Frankfurt. As you are strolling through them, it can be difficult to tell where one ends and the next begins. The area becomes one large meandering maze of people, stalls, wonderful smelling food and twinkling lights.
The dates for 2023 have been set and you can start strolling through the markets beginning on November 27th. The final day of the Christmas markets is December 21st. Hours for the markets are Monday-Saturday from 10:00am – 9:00pm and Sunday from 11:00am – 9:00pm.
Weihnachtsmarkt Frankfurt Romerberg
The heart of Frankfurt’s Christmas market is surrounded by half-timbered buildings decked out in red and green trimmings. In the center, you can’t miss the 30m live Christmas tree shining with white lights and red bows or the vintage carousel nestled among the rustic chalets selling ornaments, nativities and candy.
Starting here will put you in the holiday mood especially when you start your browsing with a warm mug of glühwein. Afterward, keep walking until you arrive at the next market.
Hauptwache Market
Continue walking from Romerberg and you will reach Hauptwache Market. Unlike other markets, this one is located close to Frankfurt’s busiest shopping street, which gives it a unique energized feeling. Food is front and center at Hauptwache with selections not found in the others. You can choose salmon served on wooden planks, beef tenderloin and piping hot soups or you can sample all three!
Additionally, your furry friends will be happy with the homemade pet treats at this market. Whatever you choose for you or your pet, you can’t go wrong!
Paulsplatz Market
Similar in feeling to Romerberg, but this one has St. Paul’s Church for a backdrop. As you walk north from Romerberg, this is the next market you will come across. We found this one focused on gifts and decor.
Wagner’s Honinghaus is a perennial favorite specializing in all things honey related. This market is also where we first introduced to Schokokuss–a light, sweet treat that consists of a chocolate covered marshmallow. Making it even better, there was a variety of flavors–coconut (my fave), mocha, caramel, amaretto, egg nog and many more. Best of all, they are an inexpensive treat. We ate ours while sitting below St. Paul’s and with a perfect view of the small carousel lighting up the corner of the market.
Maikai Market
If bustling crowds and lines for Glühwein, have you longing for a quieter environment, head to Mainkai. The Main River provides a dreamy backdrop for this smaller market.
Fortunately, what it lacks in sheer size, it makes up for with quality food and gift stalls. An excellent option for a quieter market to balance out the other ones.
Conclusion
Don’t overlook Frankfurt at Christmas. While it isn’t known as a vacation destination at Christmas, its excellent transportation options make this a great city to begin or end your trip. It is easy to fly into Frankfurt, spend a couple of days and hop on a train to visit the next town on your list. If you are looking for another market to visit, I highly recommend Cologne.
If you are planning to visit multiple markets in different areas, I suggest packing in a carry on for your travels. It makes moving around so much easier. I have a guide on how to pack for the Christmas markets in just a carry on you can read here.
If you are looking for some fun ways to explore Frankfurt and the Christmas markets, check here for some cool options.
I hope this complete guide for the Frankfurt Christmas markets encourages you to visit at Christmas. Frohliche Weihnachten!
