Munich Christkindlmarkt: Bavarian Advent on Marienplatz

Munich's main Christmas market spreads around Marienplatz and the neighbouring streets, right below the neo-Gothic New Town Hall. Brass music, a huge Christmas tree and rows of stalls make the city centre especially festive in Advent.

Fun facts

• The market has deep roots in the city and is one of the oldest in Bavaria.
• A large Christmas tree is set up in front of the New Town Hall every year.
• Next to the main market is a nativity market, the Kripperlmarkt, dedicated to crib figures.

What to see

• The Glockenspiel figures in the New Town Hall tower.
• The Frauenkirche with its two domed towers.
• The medieval-style market at the Residenz and other smaller markets in the centre.

What to taste

• Glühwein and Feuerzangenbowle, mulled wine with a flaming rum-soaked sugar cone.
• Bratwurst in a bread roll from a grill stall.
• Gebrannte Mandeln, warm candied almonds.

What to do

• Listen to the evening Advent music from the Town Hall balcony.
• Shop for traditional wooden toys and nativity figures.
• Visit the seasonal Tollwood winter festival on the Theresienwiese.

💡 Tip: S-Bahn trains connect Munich Airport with Marienplatz directly in well under an hour. The market is busiest on weekend evenings, so go on a weekday afternoon if you can and book accommodation early.