Germany is famous for its Christmas markets, which really get you in the mood for the festive season.
Many start in late November, so you can plan a trip before the depths of winter set in. Get your gift buying done early while you enjoy the sights, sounds and great food. It’s a wonderful experience, and one not to be missed.
One of the most famous Christmas markets in the country takes pace in Cologne, starting Nov. 25. It is home to the largest Christmas tree in the Rhine region, as well as the beautiful Cologne cathedral. You’ll find lots of organic food from the surrounding area on sale, and there is a stream of music events to keep you entertained.
Next up is Dresden, the east German city home to the oldest Christmas market in the country. Traditional products include handcrafted nutcrackers and stollen, a kind of fruit loaf so revered in Dresden that it has a whole market day dedicated to it.
Another good choice is Rothenburg, a medieval town that puts on a charming Christmas market. It remains faithful to almost 500 years of tradition, so you will be able to experience a typical winter wonderland. It runs Nov. 29–Dec. 23.
Read This Next
“Live Like a Local” Experiences
Top Trends
Dec 11, 2014#TrazeeTravel
Insta FeedSurveys
Oct 21, 2026Business Travel Bigger Than Ever, According to New Hotels.com Study
While just a few years ago, the travel industry may’ve been worried about business travel returning to its pre-pandemic numbers, according to a new Hotels.com study, that worry is no more. Business travel is back — and even more, it’s busier than ever for some travelers.
Sponsored Content
A New Rhythm of Work in Seoul
SEOUL REDEFINES THE FUTURE OF WORKATION by seamlessly integrating business, leisure and culture across the city. From the established MICE hub of Magok to the creative energy and scenic lifestyle along the Han River, it offers a dynamic ecosystem where productivity and relaxation naturally coexist — positioning Seoul as a global destination for a new way of working and living.
Trends
Oct 20, 2026Leading Tour Operators Merge to Create WalksDevour
Walks Tours and Devour Tours, two travel companies known for expert-led cultural tours and food experiences, teamed up to create WalksDevour. The two businesses can now be found under a single global brand and website at walksdevour.com.
Africa
Oct 16, 2026Banyan Group Unveils Its First-Ever Safari Experience
Banyan Group recently unveiled its first-ever safari experience and it’s one you do not want to miss. Located deep in the heart of Tanzania’s Ruaha National Park, Ubuyu, a Banyan Tree Escape is an intimate safari retreat, offering travelers rare opportunities to experience one of East Africa’s most untouched wilderness areas.
Sponsored Content
The Province That Surrounds Seoul — And Outshines It
Skip the Seoul Crowds. The Real Korea is in Gyeonggi.
North America
Oct 16, 2026The Las Vegas Sphere, Lyft Team Up
You know the Las Vegas Sphere. You know Lyft. Now, the two brands have come together, cementing Lyft as the venue’s official rideshare partner.
ShareThis