Christmas markets in Germany — where it's cheaper and more fun

Дар’я Нефьодова

журналіст, Німеччина

Christmas markets in Germany are a true winter wonderland, attracting millions of visitors each year. Cologne, Berlin, Hamburg and Düsseldorf all offer their own unique versions of Christmas markets, but which one should you choose if you only have a few days off?

Daria Nefedova, a special correspondent for Novyny.LIVE in Germany, compared prices and entertainment in these German cities to help you decide.

Christmas markets in Cologne

I'll start by saying that there are about 10 fairs in Cologne, but let's talk about the biggest ones:

• Christmas market near Cologne Cathedral;
• Hafen-Weihnachtsmarkt (port market);
• Märchenweihnachtsmarkt (fairytale fair on Rudolfplatz).

What entertainment is there?

• Ice rink at Heumarkt;
• Theatrical performances for children at the fairy-tale fair;
• Street musicians and orchestras.

What about the prices?

• Mulled wine: €4-5 (deposit per cup is €3);
• Fried sausages: €5-6;
• Souvenirs: from €10 for small handmade items.

The main market near Cologne Cathedral is impressive with its wooden huts and grand Christmas tree. A special atmosphere is created here thanks to a choir singing Christmas carols and playing live music.

Berlin: Christmas in a modern way

There are also dozens of fairs in the German capital, but Gendarmenmarkt remains a favorite thanks to its unique workshops and delicious dishes.

The largest fairs:

• WeihnachtsZauber at Gendarmenmarkt.
• Berliner Weihnachtszeit near Alexanderplatz.
• Lucia Weihnachtsmarkt in Kulturbrauerei.

Among the entertainments I can highlight the following:

• Riding on vintage carousels;
• Live music of various genres, from classical to jazz;
• Traditional craft workshops.

Prices:

• Mulled wine: €5-6;
• Dishes: from €6 (you can also find many vegetarian and vegan options);
• Entrance to the Gendarmenmarkt fair: €1-2.

Berlin fairs are distinguished by their modern approach and multicultural atmosphere.

Düsseldorf: A Christmas Fairytale on the Rhine

Main fairs:

• Sternchenmarkt (Star Market);
• Königsallee Christmas Market;
• Weihnachtsmarkt am Rathaus (Christmas market near the Town Hall).

In Düsseldorf, different locations have unique designs: from the magical stars on Sternchenmarkt to the modern style on Königsallee.

There is also a large ice rink with musical accompaniment in the city center.

You can also try making jewelry, candles, and wooden toys. And be sure to try baked chestnuts, potato pancakes, and Rhine wine.

Prices:

• Mulled wine: €4-5 (deposit per cup is €3);
• Dishes: from €4.5 for pancakes to €14 for a hot dish;
• Ice skating: €8-10 (skate rental included).

Düsseldorf's fairs are distinguished by their elegance and diversity. Thanks to the convenient location of the locations, it is easy to visit several in one evening.

You will find perfect photo spots at the fair on Königsallee. Düsseldorf is famous for its handicrafts and gastronomic delights.

What to choose?

For families with children: Cologne with its fabulous entertainment and ice rink. For lovers of modernity and diversity, I recommend Berlin. For a romantic mood, Düsseldorf with its Star Market.

How to save?

1. Buy drinks with your own cup - this sometimes reduces the price by €2-4.
2. Visit fairs on weekdays when there are fewer people and lower prices for attractions.
3. Plan your route in advance to avoid expensive transportation.

Regardless of your choice, the festive mood is guaranteed!

After the terrorist attack at the Magdeburg Fair, security was tightened across Germany.

Recall that on December 20 in Magdeburg, a 50-year-old native of Saudi Arabia drove into a crowd of people at a Christmas market.

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