heidelberg christmas market 2023

Last updated Oct 09, 2023

The smell of roasted almonds, the crackling of the fire, the taste of gingerbread and gentle musical sounds and bells ringing in the background... The most beautiful time of the year has begun! And where better to get in the mood for Christmas than the beautiful city of Heidelberg. Here are our 5 reasons why a visit to the Heidelberg Christmas Market definitely has to be on your bucket list... 

 
 
 
 
 
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Ein Beitrag geteilt von Felix (@fh.graphy)

 

Important Information: 

  • Where? In the old town of Heidelberg

  • When? 27th November 2023 – 7th January 2024, daily from 10am to 9pm. Closed on 24th December.

  • Highlights: romantic scenery, ice skating rink, carousel, railway

 

one christmas market, six different locations

The Christmas market in Heidelberg is spread over the entire old town so you can't miss it! Find culinary delicacies, Christmas decorations and beautiful handicrafts in traditional wooden huts spread over the following six areas in the city:

  • Bismarckplatz: Christmas flair right at the entrance to the old town.

  • Anatomiegarten: Festive huts filled with treasures for you to explore. 

  • University Square: Hop on the carousel on front of the university. Christmas stalls invite you to linger with a wide selection of food and drinks.

  • Market Square: Famous for the traditional Christmas pyramid, but also for the so-called Heidelberg barrel. This walk-in, wooden barrel is modeled on the barrel in Heidelberg Castle, which is about twice as large, and offers a magnificent view of the hustle and bustle of the Christmas market above the sales stand.

 

 
 
 
 
 
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Ein Beitrag geteilt von Michael Koch (@mek18111976)

 

 

  • Kornmarkt: Illuminated fir trees and tents, a nativity scene and toy train invite you to visit.

  • Karlsplatz: At Christmas, Karlsplatz resembles a picture-book. Christmas huts are lined up on the square and the romantic castle scenery stretches out in the background. Ice skating enthusiasts will also find an ice rink on Karlsplatz.

 

 
 
 
 
 
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Ein Beitrag geteilt von Jobi Thottungal (@jo_globe)

 

eat, drink and be merry!

What would a Christmas market be without mulled wine? The Heidelberg Christmas market mulled wine is probably one of the best mulled wines in Germany. Made from fruity red wines and winter spices such as cloves, cinnamon and star anise, it guarantees a good time. Not a fan of red mulled wine? Not a problem, it's also available in white and rose. If that's not exciting enough for you, try a Heidelberger Feuerzangenbowle – a special festive punch. Eggnog and hot chocolate with whipped cream are always good ideas!

 

 
 
 
 
 
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Ein Beitrag geteilt von Dorotheos Sokratous (@dorotheos_sokratous)

 

ice skating and fun for young and old

From late November to early January, Karlsplatz in Heidelberg boasts the most beautiful ice-skating rink in Germany. The ice rink is open daily from 12:00 to 21:30. More information can be found on the website.

On the University Square, a carousel is just waiting to make children's eyes shine. While the parents warm their hands with a mulled wine, the children enjoy an exciting ride on one of the many animals followed by a ride on the toy train at the Kornmarkt! Another highlight at the Kornmarkt is the beautiful nativity scene.

 

 
 
 
 
 
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Ein Beitrag geteilt von Eckart Würzner (@eckart.wuerzner)

 

love is in the air!

Heidelberg also has a lot to offer away from the romantic Christmas market. A highlight is Heidelberg Castle. The funicular takes you from Kornplatz up to the castle grounds, where you can join a guided tour or a leisurely walk through the castle and the palace garden. If you want to go even higher, you can get from the castle up to the 568-meter-high Königsstuhl, Heidelberg's local mountain. And those looking for even more nature and postcard views can take a winter walk along the Philosopher's Path.

 

 
 
 
 
 
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Ein Beitrag geteilt von Schloss Heidelberg (@schlossheidelberg)

 

relax with friends and family 

Thanks to its fairytale atmosphere and many attractions, Heidelberg offers the perfect alternative to the Christmas hustle and bustle of the big city. Kids will love the ice-skating and fairground attractions, while adults are kept entertained with the Christmas stalls and many cosy pubs. It's easily explored on foot and a breeze to get to with its train station and many nearby airports. 

 
 
 
 
 
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Ein Beitrag geteilt von Markus (@makus_photo)

 

 

Book your Christmas Market stay today and enjoy the perfect blend of home and hotel with Staycity Aparthotels, Heidelberg. Just a 10 minute walk from the central train station and a short tram ride to the Old Town, Staycity is the ideal location for a Heidelberg city break.