Experience Advent The Festive Season in the Heart of the City

When the towers of the Frauenkirche shine in the winter light and the scent of roasted almonds drifts across Marienplatz, Munich reveals its most magical side. From Hotel Excelsior, you can reach the loveliest Christkindlmärkte comfortably on foot or in just a few minutes by U-Bahn – the perfect starting point for Christmas shopping, mulled wine, and moments of quiet reflection.

From the grand tradition at Marienplatz to the small, characterful markets in the city's neighbourhoods — sorted by walking time from the Excelsior. All dates apply to the 2026 season; details subject to change.

20 Nov – 24 Dec 2026
Mon–Sat approx. 10 am–9 pm | Sun 10 am–8 pm · Admission free

The city's most tradition-steeped Christmas market unfolds around the town hall. Presiding over the bustle stands a roughly 30-metre-high Christmas tree with some 2,500 lights; all around it, a good 140 stalls line up with handicrafts, nativity figures, roasted almonds and mulled wine. On many evenings, festive tower music rings out from the town hall balcony.

Getting there: On foot through the pedestrian zone (Neuhauser-/Kaufingerstraße) or one stop by S-Bahn to Marienplatz.

Mid-Nov – early Jan
Ice rink & chalets

The nearest winter magic: at Karlsplatz, the square in front of the Justizpalast (Palace of Justice) transforms into a large ice rink, framed by winter chalets serving punch and local treats. The perfect start or finish to a stroll — just a few steps from the hotel.

Dates: not yet finalised for 2026; typically mid-November to early January.

23 Nov 2026 – 6 Jan 2027
Germany's largest Feuerzangenbowle

Around a giant, steaming Feuerzangenbowle on Blumenstraße, Munich celebrates winter in iconic, convivial style. A warm red glow, the scent of cinnamon and a crowd in the best of spirits — a classic that stays open into the new year.

Getting there: On foot towards the Viktualienmarkt, Blumenstraße 22.

20 Nov 2026 – 5 Jan 2027
Long season

Among the stalls of the famous Viktualienmarkt, everything sparkles with Christmas spirit: regional specialities, mulled wine in many varieties and an especially long season that stretches well into the new year. Ideal for food lovers.

Getting there: Located just behind Marienplatz.

16 Nov – 22 Dec 2026
Life-size nativity scene

In the venerable Kaiserhof of the Munich Residenz, an atmospheric Christmas village takes shape, complete with a life-size nativity scene, an enchanted forest and a Punch-and-Judy theatre. Craftspeople demonstrate blacksmithing, weaving and wood carving — especially lovely with children.

Getting there: Via Odeonsplatz; U3/U6 to Odeonsplatz.

20 Nov – 23 Dec 2026
Mead & roast suckling pig

At Wittelsbacherplatz, you travel back to the Middle Ages: fire shows, jesters, music and theatre accompany stalls offering mead, roast suckling pig and handmade crafts. One of the most atmospheric spots in the city.

Getting there: Near Odeonsplatz, within walking distance through the Old Town.

24 Nov – 23 Dec 2026
Culture, art & cuisine

On the Theresienwiese, the Tollwood Winter Festival combines a Christmas market with world culture: international cuisine, arts and crafts, concerts and theatre under large marquees. Around 600,000 guests come every year — the market area is open with free admission.

Getting there: On foot or one stop by U4/U5 to Theresienwiese.

20 Nov – 22 Dec 2026
At the city gate

Around the historic Sendlinger Tor, cosy stalls line up beneath strings of lights. A charming, less crowded market on the southern edge of the Old Town — easily combined with a stroll along Sendlinger Straße.

Getting there: Within walking distance or U1/U2/U3/U6/U7/U8 to Sendlinger Tor.

20 Nov – 20 Dec 2026
Queer & colourful

Munich's LGBTQ+ community Christmas market delights with striking lighting design in glowing pink, drag shows and a warm, welcoming atmosphere in the Glockenbach quarter. Different, warm and unmistakable.

Getting there: Near Sendlinger Tor, Stephansplatz/Blumenstraße.

When do the Christmas markets in Munich open in 2026?
Most markets start between 16 and 20 November 2026. The Munich Christkindlmarkt at Marienplatz runs from 20 November to 24 December 2026. Some markets, such as the Winter Magic at the Viktualienmarkt and the Feuerzangenbowle, stay open until early January.

Which markets can I reach on foot from Hotel Excelsior?
Almost all of the city-centre markets. The Eiszauber at Stachus is around 4 minutes' walk away, the Christkindlmarkt at Marienplatz about 11 minutes and the Winter Magic at the Viktualienmarkt around 13 minutes. Even Tollwood on the Theresienwiese is reachable in about 16 minutes on foot or one U-Bahn stop.

Which Christmas market in Munich is the loveliest?
That's a matter of taste. The Christkindlmarkt at Marienplatz is the most tradition-steeped, with its grand Christmas tree. For a special atmosphere, head to the Medieval Market at Wittelsbacherplatz, the Christmas Village in the Kaiserhof of the Residenz and the international Tollwood Winter Festival. If you prefer something quieter, Sendlinger Tor is a great choice.

Is there an admission charge?
No, admission to Munich's Christmas markets is generally free. Only individual concerts or special events — such as those held as part of the Tollwood Winter Festival — may charge admission.

Are the opening hours the same everywhere?
The hours are similar but vary from market to market. Typically they run on weekdays from approx. 10/11 am–9 pm and on Sundays until about 8 pm. On 24 December, most markets close in the early afternoon. On Totensonntag (Sunday of the Dead, 22 November 2026), some markets remain closed. Please check the official websites for current times.