Christmas market in Heidelberg: A must during Advent

The Christmas market in Heidelberg 2024

The Christmas market in Heidelberg is worth a trip to in 2024 Baden-Württemberg. There is Christmas romantic. Heidelberg is one of the university cities in Germany. With its old town, its location on the Neckar and the castle in Heidelberg on the hill behind the old town, it offers a backdrop that romantics like. This comes into its own during the Christmas season. You can experience them at the Christmas market. From November 25th to December 22nd, 2024, Heidelberg will shine in the splendor of the Christmas market. This is open daily from 22 a.m. to 11.00 p.m. until December 21.00nd.

The Heidelberg Christmas market with a view of the castle

The Christmas market in Heidelberg not only offers you atmospheric stalls, but also an impressive view of the castle. Especially in the evening, when the castle is illuminated, a magical backdrop is created that characterizes the entire ambience of the market. From the Kornmarkt you can admire the full splendor of the castle while strolling through the stalls. This view makes a visit to the Heidelberg Christmas market a special experience that you will not soon forget.

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History of the Heidelberg Christmas market and its significance for the city

The Heidelberg Christmas market has a long tradition and is firmly rooted in the city's history. It has been attracting visitors for decades and contributing to the festive atmosphere in the old town. The market is spread over several squares and combines a historical backdrop with a Christmas atmosphere. The Kornmarkt in particular, with a view of the illuminated castle, plays a central role. The Christmas market is not only an important economic factor, but also a cultural event that brings the community together and enlivens the city during Advent.

The smell of Heidelbär mulled wine at the Heidelberg Christmas market

At the Heidelberg Christmas market you will find local delicacies such as roasted almonds, gingerbread and bratwurst, which are firmly part of the regional tradition. Mulled wine is particularly popular, often refined with regional wines from the Palatinate. This spicy, hot wine has its origins in medieval recipes and will warm you up in the cold season. Heidelberger Schneeballen, a traditional pastry from the region, are also a speciality that you should try. These culinary experiences combine taste with the history and culture of the region.

With the scent of Heidelbär Mulled wine, Christmas biscuits and almonds flow through the city. The best thing to do is to try the blueberry mulled wine in all its variations. It even comes in white and pink. Buy yourself a mug full and stroll past the many Christmas stalls. In them you can find handicrafts, Christmas decorations, Christmas tree decorations and perhaps a Christmas present for the family.

The Heidelberg Christmas market takes place at these locations

The Heidelberg Christmas market is spread across various locations in the city.

The Bismarckplatz, which is located at the entrance to the old town and at the same time sets the mood for the Christmas market.
Am Anatomy Garden with the statue of the chemist Robert Bunsen, who taught in Heidelberg. There are also Christmas-decorated huts here.
The University Square with the old one Karussell is the largest square in the market. Children definitely love the historic jumping horse carousel.
The grain market with the Winter forest, where fir trees, pointed tents and a Christmas nativity scene spread the atmosphere. There are also culinary delights, handicrafts and a children's railway.
Am Marketplace Finally, the Christmas town is located with the Big barrel, on whose roof the Heidelberg symbolic figure rotates. It also says this there Santa Claus' house, where children can have their photo taken with Santa Claus for €5,00. (The money goes to Heidelberg children's projects.)

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The Heidelberg Barrel has been on the market square since 2019. Despite a capacity of 120.000 liters, it is only half the size of the original barrel in Heidelberg Castle. There is a sales room inside. You shouldn't miss the room above it. From there you have a beautiful view of the Christmas market.

The Christmas market in Heidelberg

When strolling through the Advent market in Heidelberg, you shouldn't miss the attractions on the city's squares. A merry-go-round awaits visitors on Universitätsplatz. This makes children's eyes light up. Children can ride a train at the Kornmarkt. There is also a nativity scene to admire. In the marketplace of Heidelberg finally stands the Christmas pyramid. At Karlsplatz in Heidelberg, visitors can rent ice skates and try out their skills on the ice rinks.

Advent market and castle — Heidelberger Castle

It's not just the children who get into the Christmas spirit when strolling through the Advent market in Heidelberg. Adults like it too.

Opening hours 2024:

The Heidelberg Christmas market takes place from November 25 to December 22, 2024.

Heidelberg Christmas market:

25. November to 22. December 2024

Heidelberg Winter Grove:

November 25, 2024 to January 1, 2025
Closed December 24th

Heidelberg ice rink:

If you are looking for a sporting activity, one of the most beautiful ice rinks in Germany awaits you with a view of Heidelberg Castle.

November 25, 2024 to January 6, 2025
Daily 10.00:22.00 a.m. – XNUMX:XNUMX p.m
December 24: closed
December 25th and 26th: 12.00pm - 22.00pm
December 31: 10.00 a.m. - 01.00 a.m.
1 January: 12.00:22.00 p.m. – XNUMX:XNUMX p.m

Further information

If you have more time, you will find additional tips here what you can do in Heidelberg. (in English)
More about the City of Heidelberg you can find out here.
Other Christmas markets in Germany and Austria can be found on this page.
information about Heidelberg Castle has the city's tourism authority.

Experience the Christmas market in Heidelberg

Christmas in Heidelberg is an experience you shouldn’t miss. Here are some reasons why you should experience Christmas in Heidelberg.

Historical backdrop

The market in Heidelberg takes place against the backdrop of the old town and Heidelberg Castle. This historic setting gives the market a very special flair. A stroll through the picturesque streets and past the sights of Heidelberg is worthwhile.

Stands of all kinds

Whether handicrafts, decorations for the Christmas tree or delicacies – the selection of stands is large. You'll find everything your heart desires here, from mulled wine to homemade gifts.

fun for kids

For younger visitors, for example, there is a carousel and a small train. Various workshops and events are also offered that inspire children.

Cultural events

In addition to the stands, there is also a program full of culture, ranging from choir performances to theater performances.

Regional cuisine

Another highlight is the regional cuisine. From bratwurst to chestnuts to student kisses - the variety is definitely great.

Sustainability is very important

The market's lighting has been powered exclusively by green electricity since 2017. Since the lighting was converted to energy-saving technology, it has used 75 to 80 percent less electricity. At the Christmas market, the mandatory replacement of conventional lighting technology with LEDs etc. began early on.

Questions and answers about the Christmas market in Heidelberg

When does the Christmas market in Heidelberg take place and how long does it last?

The Christmas market in Heidelberg usually starts at the end of November and runs until just before Christmas Eve. Enjoy the festive atmosphere during the four weeks.

Where exactly is the Christmas market in Heidelberg?

The Christmas market stretches along the main street, from Bismarckplatz to Universitätsplatz. The entire pedestrian zone will be transformed into a Christmas village.

Are there any special attractions or activities for children at the Christmas market in Heidelberg?

Yes, there is a stage for fairy tales and other events for the little ones. They can also have fun on the carousel or visiting Santa Claus.

What delicacies await me at the Christmas market in Heidelberg?

There are a variety of delicacies at the Heidelberg Christmas market. Be sure to try the stollen, cookie, bratwurst, roasted almonds and warm yourself up with mulled wine.

What is the best way to get there and is there parking near the Christmas market in Heidelberg?

The easiest way to get to the Christmas market is by public transport. The train station is also not far away. If you come by car, you can find parking spaces in the parking garages around the city center. However, be aware that they can fill up quickly during Advent.

Travel Arrangements:

How to reach us

By Car:

From Frankfurt: Take the A5 southbound, exit 37-Heidelberg/Schwetzingen and follow the signs to Heidelberg. There are several parking garages in Heidelberg near the Christmas market, e.g. "P12 Kornmarkt/Schloss" or "P11 Universität".
From Stuttgart: Take the A81 and A6 towards Mannheim/Heidelberg, take exit 32-Heidelberg/Schwetzingen and follow the signs towards Heidelberg.

By train:

Regional trains: Heidelberg is well connected to the regional rail network. From Heidelberg main station, you can easily reach the old town by tram (lines 5 or 21) or bus (lines 32 or 33).
Long-distance trains: For visitors from further afield, Heidelberg Central Station can also be reached by ICE and IC. From the main station, it is about 10 minutes by public transport to the old town, where the Christmas market is held.

By plane:

Frankfurt Airport: The nearest major airport is Frankfurt am Main. From there there are direct ICE connections to Heidelberg (journey time approx. 45 minutes).
Stuttgart Airport: There are also regular train connections to Heidelberg from Stuttgart Airport, although the journey time is a little longer at around 1,5 hours.
Compare and book flights here*. (Advertisement) The nearest airport is Frankfurt. From there you can travel by car or train.
You can also rent a car there for your onward journey.
You can rent a car cheaply here.

parking:

There are several parking garages in Heidelberg's old town that are close to the Christmas market, such as the "P12 Kornmarkt/Schloss" parking garage. However, due to the high number of visitors, it is recommended to use public transport to get to the Christmas market without stress.

By bus:

Several bus companies offer special trips to the Christmas market in Heidelberg during Advent. These often include a guided city tour and a visit to the market. It is worth looking for offers in your own region.

Here you can book your parking space at the (departure) airport.

Anyone arriving from outside should also plan a night in Heidelberg:

You can book hotels in Heidelberg here*

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Also get the Heidelberg Card. You can save money with this.