2026 Frankfurt Christmas Markets Guide
As the home to one of Europe’s most major airline hubs, Frankfurt is a great place to start or end your Christmas markets trip. Whether you’re looking to spend one night in the city to pop by the markets before or after your flight or you’re staying for a week as the home base to visit other Christmas markets in the region, there’s a lot to love about Christmas time in Frankfurt. The picturesque backdrop of their main market to the classic german food make it well worth a visit, no matter how long your stay. Here’s what to know about visiting Frankfurt Christmas markets in 2026!
Frankfurt Christmas Market Locations
Frankfurt is home to about six markets, but while there are a few others that pop up for a few days during the season, these are open the longest and are the most worth-it. The central and most impressive market is the Römerberg market, but the others each have their special features! Here are the locations and specialties of each market:
Römerberg Christmas Market
This historic square is the heart of Frankfurt's Christmas celebrations. With its stunning backdrop of half-timbered houses and a towering Christmas tree, it's the perfect spot to soak up the festive atmosphere. You'll find over 200 beautifully decorated stalls selling everything from handmade crafts to delicious treats like Bratwurst and Glühwein. This market extends across Römerberg, Paulsplatz, and Mainkai and is located at Römerberg 27, 60311 Frankfurt am Main, Germany.
Pink Christmas at Friedrich-Stoltze-Platz
Get ready for a unique experience at the Pink Christmas market! This vibrant spot is decked out in pink and rose lights, creating a cozy atmosphere where you can enjoy hot cocktails and homemade soups from wooden huts. It's a fun twist on traditional Christmas markets and welcomes everyone with open arms. This market is located at Friedrich-Stoltze-Platz. 60311 Frankfurt am Main, Germany.
City Christmas Market
For a panoramic view of the city, head to the rooftop terrace of the City Alm. Here, you can indulge in hot cocktails and hearty specialties surrounded by rustic alpine huts. The city lights at night make it a truly magical spot to enjoy the festive season. This market is located at Carl-Theodor-Reiffenstein-Platz 5, 60313 Frankfurt am Main, Germany.
Sachsenhausen Christmas Market
Located near the picturesque Goethe Tower, this market offers a serene winter wonderland experience. Amidst the natural beauty, you can find Christmas specialties and handcrafted goods that make perfect gifts or souvenirs. This market is located at the Goethe Tower, Am Goetheturm, 60599 Frankfurt am Main, Germany.
Frankfurt, Germany Christmas Markets Opening Dates & Times
The 2026 Frankfurt Christmas Market dates have officially been announced! The Frankfurt Christmas markets will be open from November 23- December 22, 2026. The markets are scheduled to be open from 10 a.m. - 9 p.m. daily. Visiting during the week was quite crowded, but we thankfully didn’t find the shoulder to shoulder crowds that can often be found on the weekend. Visiting during the day is also a way to avoid some of the bigger crowds, especially on the weekend, though there's something undeniably magical about the buzz of evenings under the illuminated lights of the Römerberg Market.
Food & Drinks to Try in Frankfurt
Riesling - when is Rome, I mean, Frankfurt, right?! This regional white german wine is offered at many stalls along with staple local dishes.
Kartoffelpuffer - crispy potato pancakes served with applesauce or sour cream.
Bretzels - fun fact, pretzels are called bretzels in Germany! For some reason, they taste extra delicious freshly warmed then eaten in front of a well lit Christmas tree with a hot cup of glüwhein.
Bratwursts - you can't come to Germany and not try some brats! Head to the nearest booth and try one (or several) of the many different varieties.
Frankfurt Bethmännchen - a traditional Frankfurt treat made from marzipan, rolled into balls and decorated with three half-almonds.
Feuerzangenbowle - a delicious specifically german take on mulled wine which literally translates to fire tongs punch. They torch and melt sugar over the giant bowl of mulled wine, add a few extra touches such as an orange liquor or rum, and serve it piping hot.
What to Shop For at the Christmas Markets
Hand-painted Ornaments – Beautifully crafted glass or wooden ornaments that add a touch of German charm to your tree.
Nutcrackers and Wooden Pyramids – Traditional German wooden crafts, such as nutcrackers and spinning pyramids, make great decorative pieces.
Candle Holders and Arches – Known as "Schwibbögen," these are great keepsakes that can be small enough to tuck away in your suitcase.
Christmas Ornaments – The market offers a vast selection of handcrafted Christmas ornaments, including glass baubles, wooden carvings, and straw stars.
Handmade Wooden Toys and Crafts – Explore the stalls for beautifully crafted wooden toys, nutcrackers, and other traditional German crafts.
Where We Stayed in Frankfurt
Moxy Frankfurt Center
Four-Star Marriott property only a few blocks away from the markets for less than $200 per night.
The hotel rooms are modestly sized, but very modern, practical, and comfortable.
The hotel has such a cool, modern vibe with vibrant colors and neon adorning the walls.
The Moxy takes communal space in the lobby seriously! With a 24/7 bar (for both drinks and coffee), plenty of quick service food and drink options, ample tables and work spaces, and many card and board games to borrow and play, there's no shortage of good vibes and chill times here. We rarely see people actually hanging out in hotel lobbies, but morning and night, the lobby was full of people working and playing together.
How to Get Around Frankfurt
Get your walking shoes on! The only ideal way to navigate the city is by foot. You could rent a bike, but why not take the opportunity to stroll around town and visit the sites? The best way to get to Frankfurt from other cities is by train or car. If you'd like to rent a car, keep in mind that you will only use it a little while in the city. The central train station in Frankfurt is about a 5-15 minute ride share from just about everywhere locally.