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The Dusseldorf Christmas Market is simply magical! Several classic German Markets dot the city, each one featuring traditional holiday huts that serve warm glühwein and local treats. In addition to twinkling lights and decorated trees, a giant riverside Ferris wheel and an outdoor ice-skating rink compliment the festiveness of Dusseldorf at Christmastime.
Why Visit the Dusseldorf Christmas Market?
On top of the many Fun Things To Do in Dusseldorf, the city is jam-packed with merriment during the month of December.
In our opinion, Dusseldorf is one of the best places in Germany for Christmas – and we nearly missed it. Underrated and often overlooked, the Dusseldorf market came to our attention at the last minute, and we are so pleased that it did!
The previous year, we had spent time at the Frankfurt Christmas Market and were completely in awe of the celebration. Craving similar revelry, we started searching for where to go in Germany for Christmas markets.
We had a few free days in our schedule between visiting Croatia and traveling to the Netherlands. With those open dates, we were on a quest to experience another epic German Christmas market.
Initially, large cities – like Berlin and Munich – sprang to mind as classic German festive destinations. But then we heard whispers about Christmas in Dusseldorf – and realized the lesser-known location was an ideal place for a German Christmas Market break.
What To Expect at the Christmas Market in Dusseldorf
It was with great anticipation (and pretty high expectations) that we arrived at the Dusseldorf Christmas Fair – and it absolutely delivered!
Each decorated market is bathed in the soft glow of Christmas lights and adorned in classic décor. With holiday spirit in the air and a steaming cup of glühwein in hand, we descended into the jovial atmosphere of Dusseldorf at Christmas.
Dusseldorf, Germany Christmas Market Guide
Let the holiday festivities begin! Our Dusseldorf Christmas Market review features everything you need to know – including locations, dates and times. Additionally, we include what to eat and other things to do in Dusseldorf at Christmastime.
Plus, we offer our tips for visiting nearby European Holiday Markets – like the famous one in Cologne – that are just a short train ride away.
Fun Düsseldorf Christmas Market Fact: In German it’s called Weihnachtsmarkt or Kerstmarkt, but it all refers to the same event.
Save, Pin or Bookmark our guide to plan your Dusseldorf Christmas Market 2024 trip!
Finding the Dusseldorf Christmas Markets
The Christmas Market in Dusseldorf isn’t limited to one location. The city proudly proclaims seven distinct areas!
Each one unique, they are located along cobblestone lanes, in prominent squares and in cozy corners. Yet, all of the Dusseldorf Christmas Markets are within easy walking distance of one another. So, grab your glühwein and let’s get going!
7 Christmas Markets in Dusseldorf, Germany
This list is in order of the Dusseldorf markets we enjoyed the most on our visit. Use the complete map further below to find your favorite spot at the Christmas Market in Dusseldorf!
#1 Engelchen Markt on Heinrich-Heine-Platz
Engelchen Markt – or Angels Market – is the best Christmas market in Dusseldorf! Illuminated in a golden hue and overlooked by cherubs, the Engelchen Markt is our favorite spot for a stroll and a mug of mulled wine.
#2 Sternchen Martk in Wilhelm-Marx-Haus Courtyard
Tucked into a quaint courtyard adjacent to Engelchen Markt, the Sternchen Markt is the most atmospheric Christmas Market in Dusseldorf. Decorated in a canopy of white lights, the cozy enclave feels secluded from the rest of the city.
#3 Handwerke Markt on Marktplatz
Trips to Dusseldorf at Christmastime would not be complete without visiting the Handwerke Markt.
Located on the main square under the gaze of the Elector Jan Wellem equestrian statue, the picturesque bazaar features handmade crafts, a historic carousel and a towering Christmas tree. Also, don’t miss the life sized Nativity Scene.
#4 Altstadt Markt on Flinger Strasse
Lined with huts resembling old Burgher houses (which dole out classic German Christmas fair food), the Altstadt Christmas Market is the perfect route to get from the Engelchen Markt to Marktplatz.
The festive space is centered on a Christmas pyramid which features characters of Dusseldorf’s past – and is a popular spot to grab a goblet of glühwein.
#5 Marchen Markt adjacent to Corneliusplatz
Especially enticing to children, the Marchen Markt is where German fairy tales are recited…and where Santa can be found on Fridays.
#6 Ko-Bogen Markt
Overlooking the city center Hofgarten, the Christmas fair at Ko-Bogen features activities just for kids and organized carol singing (sheet music provided, so everyone can sing along!).
#7 Schadow Markt
Dusseldorf’s popular shopping street, Schadowstrasse, is enhanced at Christmas time with rows of holiday booths selling traditional and custom holiday gifts.
More Festive Spots during Christmas in Dusseldorf
In addition to the seven themed Dusseldorf Christmas fair markets, there are a few more jovial places to see.
Dusseldorf Ferris Wheel: The Riesenrad Wheel of Vision
Situated on the banks of the Rhine River in Burgplatz is the iconic Dusseldorf Ferris Wheel. Operating both day and night, visitors can get a birds’ eye view of Dusseldorf from one of the enclosed (and heated) gondolas.
We enjoyed the spectacle from the ground – and were thoroughly entertained by the surrounding Christmas atmosphere. In fact, this spot was one of our favorites!
Pro Tip: A unique thing to do in Dusseldorf in December is to enjoy breakfast in a Ferris Wheel gondola while overlooking the Rhine River.
Ice Skating Dusseldorf: Ko on Ice
The Dusseldorf Christmas Ice Rink, located on Corneliusplatz, is a completely inviting scene.
Marking the north end of the posh Konigsallee shopping street and Stadtgraben canal, the rink encircles a tiered fountain. Visitors can rent skates or even play a few rounds of curling. We happily took in the wintery scene from the cozy lodge!
Konigsallee
Konigsalle – or King’s Avenue – is one of the prettiest promenades in the entire city. Although it is not part of the Kerstmarkt in Dusseldorf, we believe it is worth a stroll for Christmassy vibes.
The wide boulevard features a long canal that is lined with trees, decorated with statues and crossed by picturesque bridges.
Well-known for brand-name fashion and boutique stores, we think the best reason to take a walk along Konigsalle at Christmastime is the romantic Lichterdom – a dome of lights – that arches across the Benrather Strasse Bridge.
Schadow Arkaden Christmas Tree
We actually never made it to the Schadow Arkaden Mall to see the Singing and Dancing Christmas Tree, but it was on our list just in case the weather turned too poor to be outside. The store’s centerpiece decoration dazzles guests with a light and music show every hour on the hour.
Rhine River Christmas Dinner Cruise
Seeking a special Dusseldorf experience? Hop aboard a Rhine River cruise for an afternoon of holiday fun.
The 2-hour cruise features atmospheric lights and Christmas décor. Passengers get a panoramic view of Dusseldorf while enjoying German specialties from the on-board bar. Book your spot!
Dusseldorf Christmas Market Food and Drink
One of the great things about German Christmas Markets is the food – so, naturally, we ate as much of it as we could!
While there is an array of cuisine to feast on at the Dusseldorf Christmas Markets, there are a few things that should not be missed.
Gluhwein – Mulled Wine
There is no other drink that ushers in the holiday season quite like Gluhwein. The hot wine is spiced with cloves and citrus…and is utterly delicious.
Each festive area has at least one mulled wine vendor – and a special mug they serve it in. If you want to take it up a notch, try a cup of the potent Feuerzangenbowle!
Top Tip: A small deposit is required for the mug at Kerstmarkt Dusseldorf. After you finish the drink, either return the mug for a refund – or keep it as a souvenir!
Bratwurst
The heavenly aroma of grilled sausages hangs heavy in the air at the Christmas Market in Dusseldorf.
There is an assortment of sausages on offer, but we prefer a classic bratwurst with mustard (and we gobbled up more than our fair share).
Pro Tip: The sausages at the Handwerker Markt were far and away the best we had in Dusseldorf!
Reibekuchen
German potato pancakes – called Reibekuchen or Kartoffelpuffer – are fabulous fried fritters that come with a side of applesauce or sour cream (that latter is our preference).
The first time we tried these delicious delicacies was at a small German village Christmas Market near Nijmegen, Netherlands…and we have been pretty much craving them ever since.
Top Tip: The Reibekuchen at the Altstadt Markt are divine – and they sell sauteed mushrooms, too!
Flammkuchen
An iconic German dish, Flammkuchen – or Tarte Flambee – is a thin, crispy dough topped with cream, cheese, onion and bacon pieces.
However, there are several topping variations and even sweet flammkuchen, too. The delectable treat is a perfect snack while sipping warm glühwein at the Dusseldorf Christmas Market in Germany.
Pro Tip: The vendor at Engelchen Markt makes the absolute best Flammkuchen we’ve had in Dusseldorf!
Langos – Hungarian Fried Bread
Although Langos originates in Hungary, it has made its way into Christmas Festivals across Europe – and we are not complaining!
A classic Langos is deep fried dough, which is slathered with sour cream then topped with grated cheese and seasoning.
Top Tip: Find the tastiest Langos at the Dusseldorf Christmas Market near the base of the Ferris wheel.
Christmas Shopping Dusseldorf
There are ample opportunities for Christmas shopping in Dusseldorf! The city is a well-known fashion hub of high-end designers and shopping malls. Konigsallee – nicknamed Ko – and Schadowstrasse are the two most popular shopping streets.
That said, the prime place to buy holiday gifts is actually at the Dusseldorf Christmas Markets. If you are looking for something unique and handmade, head to the Handwerke Markt. Those seeking out traditional German Christmas gifts should peruse the wares for sale at the Altstadt Markt.
For classic Christmas presents, we recommend checking out the booths at the Engelchen Markt. And last but not least, to help stay warm, pop into Et Kabuffke Killepitschstube for a nip of Killepitsch (or just order from the takeaway window).
Dusseldorf Xmas Market Info and Details
Before you plan your trip to Dusseldorf for Christmas, be sure to check the dates and times of the Dusseldorf Christmas Markets.
Dusseldorf Christmas Market 2024
The dates of the 2024 Christmas Market in Dusseldorf are November 21 to December 30. They are all open daily, with two very important exceptions: November 26 for Totensonntag (Sunday of the Dead) and December 25.
Dusseldorf Christmas Market Opening Times
All of the Christmas Markets Dusseldorf keep the same hours. The opening hours for 2024 are as follows: Sundays to Thursdays from 11am until 8pm; Fridays and Saturdays from 11am until 9pm.
Special Christmas Hours: The Dusseldorf holiday festival observes shorter hours on December 24 (from 11:00am until 3:00pm) and on December 26 (2:00pm until 8:00pm).
Quick Guide to Dusseldorf Christmas Market 2024 Dates
- November 21: Opening of Dusseldorf Christmas Markets 2024. Hours are 11am to 8pm Sunday to Thursday and 11am to 9pm on Friday and Saturday.
- November 24: Closed for Totensonntag
- December 24: Open from 11am to 3pm
- December 25: Closed for Christmas Day
- December 26: Open from 2pm to 8pm
- December 30: Last day of 2024 Dusseldorf Christmas Markets
We also encourage you to check the official website for any last minute changes!
Dusseldorf Christmas Market Map
Where exactly is the Dusseldorf Christmas Market? Use this map to find the location of each Dusseldorf Winter Market we featured above.
Why Visit Dusseldorf, Germany in December
Dusseldorf may not hold any Germany Christmas Market titles – it’s not the oldest, biggest or grandest – but we believe it’s one of the best places to visit in Germany at Christmas.
In addition to hosting one of the top Christmas Markets in Germany, we have a few more reasons why you will want to start planning your trip to Dusseldorf!
There’s Plenty of Things To Do in Dusseldorf in December
While the holiday fairs are the premier attraction, there are other reasons to spend a weekend – or longer – in Dusseldorf. Visitors can take in the sights, go to museums, cheer on the hockey team and sample more of the local flavors.
Christmas Markets Near Dusseldorf
Another fantastic reason to visit Dusseldorf in December is it’s close proximity to other cities which have their own holiday festivities.
Well connected by public transportation, visitors can easily travel by train from Dusseldorf to explore more of the region and revel in the merrymaking. We are highlighting a few easily-accessible destinations.
Cologne Christmas Market
If you are trying to decide between Dusseldorf or Cologne Christmas Market breaks, we say go to both!
From Dusseldorf, the Cologne, Germany Christmas Market is a short 30-minute train ride away. The two main Cologne Xmas Markets – at the Cathedral and in the Old Town – are just steps from the station.
To be honest, the real reason we decided to go to Cologne was for a hockey game. However, we were thrilled that we stayed for the Koln Christmas Festival!
Sipping glühwein under a canopy of lights beneath the soaring Gothic towers of the Kolner Dom ranks as one of our top Christmas moments! Check out this great article for more on the Christmas Market in Cologne!
Dortmund Christmas Market
The city of Dortmund is only about an hour from Dusseldorf by train. Dortmund boasts a cheerful Christmas fair and claims to display the World’s Largest Christmas Tree (which is created using more than 1500 spruce trees).
We had grand plans to visit the Christmas Market in Dortmund – and making stops in Duisburg and Essen along the way – but we got too distracted by all the fun in Dusseldorf. Perhaps next year!
How To Get to Christmas Markets around Dusseldorf
Getting to these Christmas Markets close to Dusseldorf is as simple as hopping on a train. The Deutsche Bahn regional service connects Dusseldorf to all other major cities in the North Rhine-Westphalia region.
Pro Tip: Before buying tickets, find the right one for your trip! Deutsche Bahn offers a range of money-saving tickets. Get complete info on the DB website.
It’s Easy To Get to Dusseldorf
Need one more great reason to go to Dusseldorf for the holidays? It’s easy to get to from numerous places across Europe – and from select cities in North America, too!
The Dusseldorf Airport (DUS) is served by all major European airlines and most low-cost carriers. In fact, we took a direct flight from Split, Croatia to Dusseldorf. Start your search for cheap flight fares on SkyScanner.
Dusseldorf is also incredibly well-connected by train. Visitors can easily reach other German destinations and nearby magical European cities (like Strasbourg or Paris) via rail.
We departed Dusseldorf on a direct train to Amsterdam. It was just a quick two-hour ride and Amsterdam at Christmas is amazing!
Several companies – including our preferred choice, Flixbus – transport passengers to Dusseldorf from many other locations throughout Europe.
Dusseldorf Travel Tips
Now that you are ready to go to Dusseldorf, Germany, we have some advice to help you plan your trip!
Planning a Christmas Market Dusseldorf Trip
We have shared our top tips for the best things to do at the Dusseldorf, Germany Christmas Market. However, there is more to this trip than deciding what to visit at the holiday fair.
Travelers also need to consider where to stay and what to pack in their backpack or suitcase. Those traveling to Germany from overseas should start with our guide to Planning a European Vacation.
As you begin to make your plans, you will need to stay on top of all the details. We recommend using our Printable Travel Planner to track your visit to the Dusseldorf Markets at Christmas time!
Weather for Dusseldorf in December
Winter weather in Dusseldorf can be quite cold. Average high temperatures for December hover in the mid-40Fs, and wind can make if feel much colder. The city does not experience a ‘dry season,’ so precipitation – in the form of rain or snow – is likely.
During our visit, we experienced howling wind, rain, overcast skies and sunshine. That said, it was not nearly as cold as we anticipated…perhaps it was the glühwein!
What You Will Need for Christmas Trips to Germany
Before you set off, you will want to make sure you pack the correct things. So grab our FREE Packing Checklist and let’s get you to Germany!
Winter Weather Gear
We recommend wearing layers under your winter coat – along with a hat, scarf and gloves. Also don’t forget your favorite day bag to keep all those everyday items organized!
Durable Shoes
You will likely be spending a lot of time on your feet celebrating Christmas in Dusseldorf. While there isn’t too much walking required, there are very few places to sit and rest your feet. We suggest packing a pair of warm and comfortable travel shoes or walking boots.
Travel Insurance for Germany
Trip coverage could come in handy for inconvenient issues – such as delayed flights or lost luggage. It may also cover unexpected medical costs abroad for illnesses or injuries. Consider prices and plans with World Nomads before traveling to Europe.
Where To Stay in Dusseldorf
Because we waited until the last minute, the most affordable hotels close to the Dusseldorf Christmas Market were already booked.
Alternatively, we found an Airbnb Apartment for our trip to Dusseldorf. We often find that apartments are less expensive – and offer more space – than hotels.
Hotels Near Dusseldorf Christmas Markets
Those who would rather stay in traditional accommodations have a range of choices (as long as you book in advance).
The most opulent hotel in Dusseldorf is the Capella Breidenbacher Hof, which is located right on Konigsallee. The Hotel Favor also gets rave reviews and offers slightly less expensive rooms.
Budget-minded travelers can find more affordable places east of Altstadt – between the city center and the train station. For example, the boutique Hotel Lindenhof is within easy walking distance to all the top Dusseldorf sights.
Search for more Dusseldorf Hotels on Booking.com – but first, read our Tips on Finding Prime Places to Stay for Cheap!
Start planning your trip to Germany! Search for the lowest airfares, the best accommodations and fun things to do…then start packing! Want more advice? Head over to our Travel Planning Page for tips on traveling – and for country-specific information, take a look at our Travel Guides Page!
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