If you’re thinking of visiting the Düsseldorf Christmas Market in 2026, you’re in the right place. In this guide, I’ll tell you about the best markets to visit (because Düsseldorf has seven, not just one), with a map showing their exact locations and the official opening dates. I’ll also share my favourite things to do in Düsseldorf, plus some of the best Christmas markets to visit nearby, including Cologne and Dortmund.
Düsseldorf Christmas Market Review 2026
Düsseldorf Christmas Market is one of the most popular Christmas markets in North Rhine-Westphalia. However, it is not as famous as the markets in Berlin, Cologne or Munich, so it feels less touristy, with plenty of locals. If you prefer a traditional Christmas market without the huge crowds of international visitors, Düsseldorf is a great option. And, of course, entry is free, as it is at most Christmas markets in Germany.
Düsseldorf Christmas Market (Düsseldorfer Weihnachtsmarkt) is spread across seven locations in the city centre, with the main market, Handwerker Markt, set around Marktplatz. The other locations are Altstadt Markt, Schadow Markt, Kö-Bogen Markt, Märchen Markt, The Winter Village and Rhine Promenade.
Together, the markets have more than 200 wooden stalls selling traditional German Christmas food, mulled wine, decorations and toys. You’ll also find a large Ferris wheel at Burgplatz and a 1,700-square-metre ice rink at Corneliusplatz.
I visited Düsseldorf during a Christmas trip that also took me to the markets in Dortmund, Aachen, Essen, Bonn and Cologne. I based myself in Düsseldorf for a few days to explore the nearby markets before continuing to Cologne. If you’re looking for more local and less touristy Christmas markets, I’d definitely add Dortmund, Essen and Bonn to your list. They’re all less than an hour from Düsseldorf by train and make easy day trips.
💖 My favourite hotel in Düsseldorf: Carathotel
Location: just steps from the Altstadt, winter markets and the shopping boulevard Königsallee
What I loved: quiet, spacious rooms and an excellent breakfast
Check details & availability: Booking.com | Expedia
If you’re staying overnight in Düsseldorf, the Altstadt (Old Town) is a great choice. It’s right between the Rhine River and Königsallee, putting you just steps from the Christmas markets. However, if you’re using Düsseldorf as a base to explore the Christmas markets in the area, as I did, I’d recommend staying near Königsallee. It’s conveniently located between the Old Town and the train station, making it ideal for day trips. I stayed here during my trip and found the location very convenient, as I arrived by train from Dortmund and took a day trip to Essen, also by train.
Düsseldorf Christmas Market Dates 2026
| Düsseldorf Christmas Market | 19 November – 30 December 2026 |
These are the official dates for the Düsseldorf Christmas Market. The main market at Marktplatz and all the other locations open and close on the same dates. Note that the markets are closed on Totensonntag (22 November) and Christmas Day (25 December).
Düsseldorf Christmas Market Map
Here’s an interactive map with the exact locations of all the markets.
Best Christmas markets in Düsseldorf 2026
Handwerker Markt
Handwerker Markt is the most popular Christmas market in Düsseldorf. It is situated on Marktplatz, set against the beautiful backdrop of the 16th-century Rathaus (Town Hall). Completed with red huts and a sparkling Christmas tree, this market looks like a Christmas village. The hand-carved life-sized Nativity scene brings a traditional touch to Handwerker Markt.
The stalls offer all sorts of handicrafts, including pottery, glasswork, textiles, carved wood products and others. You can even watch the artisans at work and enjoy demonstrations of glass-blowing, tin casting, and wood carving.
Handwerker Markt is my favourite market in Düsseldorf, because of the stunning backdrop of the medieval Town Hall.
During my last visit, this market was listed separately. Last year, it was combined with the Altstadt Markt, but I’ve kept the two markets separate in this guide, including the pins on the map. They’re a few minutes’ walk from each other, and it’s easy to miss the section where the Handwerker Markt is located, which is my favourite part.
Handwerker Markt Opening times
From 19 November to 30 December 2026
From Sunday to Thursday – 10 AM to 7 PM
Friday and Saturday – 10 AM to 8 PM
22 November (Totensonntag) and 25 December (Christmas Day) – closed
24 December – from 10 AM to 2 PM
26 December – from 1 PM to 8 PM
Address: Marktplatz, 40213 Düsseldorf, Germany
Weihnachtsmarkt official website
Best hotels near Düsseldorf Christmas Market
Best mid-range stay – Hotel Favor
8.8 | 1,340+ reviews – perfect location, right on Königsallee shopping boulevard and just steps from the winter markets
Best luxury stay – Breidenbacher Hof
9.1 | 580+ reviews – luxury stay with an indoor pool and sauna, within walking distance of the markets
Best budget-friendly stay – Hotel Sir & Lady Astor
8.6 | 1,910+ reviews – quiet, charming rooms with a fantastic breakfast, in a convenient location between the Old Town, winter markets and train station
Altstadt Markt
Altstadt Markt takes place along the Flinger Straße and Marktstraße in the Old Town of Düsseldorf. These pedestrian shopping streets, lined with 17th and 18th-century buildings, provide the perfect backdrop. The stalls, designed to resemble old burgher houses, offer handmade decorations, jewellery and Christmas goods.
The centrepiece of Altstadt Markt is the Christmas Pyramid, where you can buy mulled wine.
Rather than traditional Christmas figures, it displays figurines of important individuals from Düsseldorf, adding a local charm.
Altstadt Markt Opening times
From 19 November to 30 December 2026
From Sunday to Thursday – 10 AM to 7 PM
Friday and Saturday – 10 AM to 8 PM
22 November (Totensonntag) and 25 December (Christmas Day) – closed
24 December – from 10 AM to 2 PM
26 December – from 1 PM to 8 PM
Address: Flinger Straße, 40213 Düsseldorf
Best Düsseldorf Tours & Experiences
Brewery Tour with Alt Beer Tastings – visit three local breweries, taste the city’s famous Altbier and hear stories about the city’s brewing culture and history
Old Town & Altbier Tour – explore the historic Old Town, discover its hidden stories, and taste the city’s famous Altbier with a local guide
Kö-Bogen Markt
Kö-Bogen Markt occupies the public square, Joachim-Erwin-Platz, nestled between the Kö-Bogen building complex. The charming wooden stalls offer delicacies such as Prague ham, roasted duck, flame-grilled salmon and traditional cheese from the Alps. Be sure to try the hot punch at the Feuerzangenbowle.
Kö-Bogen Markt Opening times
From 19 November to 30 December 2026
From Sunday to Thursday – 10 AM to 7 PM
Friday and Saturday – 10 AM to 8 PM
22 November (Totensonntag) and 25 December (Christmas Day) – closed
24 December – from 10 AM to 2 PM
26 December – from 1 PM to 8 PM
Address: Joachim-Erwin-Platz, 40212 Düsseldorf, Germany
Märchen Markt
Just a brief stroll from Kö-Bogen Markt lies the enchanting Märchen Markt. This fairytale market features white-roofed wooden stalls, decorated with characters from the Brothers Grimm fairytales. There is also a children’s carousel, which adds to the festive charm. And every Friday, you have the chance to meet Father Christmas at the Children’s Tower.
Märchen Markt Opening times
From 19 November to 30 December 2026
From Sunday to Thursday – 10 AM to 7 PM
Friday and Saturday – 10 AM to 8 PM
22 November (Totensonntag) and 25 December (Christmas Day) – closed
24 December – from 10 AM to 2 PM
26 December – from 1 PM to 8 PM
Address: Schadowplatz, 40212 Düsseldorf, Germany
The Winter Village
The Winter Village is situated along the Königsallee, a lively shopping street with high-end boutiques. It’s a small market featuring stalls selling gift items, Christmas decorations, and a handful of food vendors.
The Winter Village Opening times
From 19 November to 30 December 2026
From Sunday to Thursday – 10 AM to 7 PM
Friday and Saturday – 10 AM to 8 PM
22 November (Totensonntag) and 25 December (Christmas Day) – closed
24 December – from 10 AM to 2 PM
26 December – from 1 PM to 8 PM
Address: Tritonenbrunnen, Königsallee, 40212 Düsseldorf, Germany
Schadow Markt
Schadow Markt is situated on one of the city’s main shopping streets, Schadowstraße, right next to the Schadow-Arkaden shopping mall. It’s the ideal place to shop while enjoying the festive spirit of Christmas at the same time. At the wooden stalls, you’ll find all kinds of delicious foods, including crêpes, waffles, sausages, potato fritters and more.
Schadow Markt Opening times
From 19 November to 30 December 2026
From Sunday to Thursday – 10 AM to 7 PM
Friday and Saturday – 10 AM to 8 PM
22 November (Totensonntag) and 25 December (Christmas Day) – closed
24 December – from 10 AM to 2 PM
26 December – from 1 PM to 8 PM
Address: Schadowstraße, 40212 Düsseldorf, Germany
Christmas promenade
The Christmas Promenade (Weihnachtspromenade) stretches along the Rhine embankment. You’ll find nostalgic sales trolleys, glass pavilions and stalls designed to look like old townhouses. It’s a lovely spot to sip mulled wine while enjoying the views of the Rhine.
During my last visit, I stumbled across this winter market by chance, as it wasn’t listed anywhere, not even on the official website. It was such a nice surprise! The following year, it became an official market. Just a short stroll from here, you’ll also find the Wheel of Vision, but more on that later.
Weihnachtspromenade Opening times
From 19 November to 30 December 2026
From Sunday to Thursday – 10 AM to 7 PM
Friday and Saturday – 10 AM to 8 PM
22 November (Totensonntag) and 25 December (Christmas Day) – closed
24 December – from 10 AM to 2 PM
26 December – from 1 PM to 8 PM
Address: Rheinuferpromenade Rheinwerft, 40213 Düsseldorf
What to do in Düsseldorf at Christmas
Take a ride on the Wheel of Vision
Discover Düsseldorf from a completely new perspective by taking a ride on the Wheel of Vision. This 55m (180 feet) tall Ferris wheel, equipped with 42 gondolas, offers panoramic views of the Rhine River and the festive Old Town. You can book a longer ride and enjoy a glass of wine (or even breakfast) during the experience (view all exclusive ride options here).
Address: Burgplatz, 40213 Düsseldorf, Germany
Go ice skating
Each Christmas season, Corneliusplatz transforms into a magical winter wonderland. At its heart, you’ll find a huge ice rink, set around the picturesque 19th-century fountain. You can also enjoy curling here.
Visit the Church of St. Andreas
The Church of St. Andreas is one of the most beautiful churches in Düsseldorf. Constructed during the 17th century, the church originally functioned as a Jesuit church before becoming the court church of the House of Palatinate-Neuburg. The Church of St. Andreas was built in German Baroque style, featuring a stunning interior with intricate plasterwork and sculptures.
See the Dome of Lights
Every year, Königsallee is festively illuminated. A huge double arch, known as the Dome of Lights (Lichter Dom), is constructed over the bridge at Steinstraße. The Dome of Lights shines with 3,500 lights, making it a stunning sight after sunset.
Address: Lichterdom, Steinstraße, 40210 Düsseldorf
Taste your way around Düsseldorf
For some good coffee and cheesecake, make your way to Kioki Café. Their Lotus Biscoff and Pistachio cheesecakes are amazing.
For some authentic German cuisine, head to HeimWerk Altstadt. This restaurant serves one of the best Schnitzels in the city. My favourite was the Bergkäseschnitzel vom Kalb (veal Schnitzel with cheese), paired with the classic Kartoffelsalat (potato salad).
If you’re looking for some excellent chocolate, Gut & Gerne Schokolade is the place. This little store offers a wide selection of chocolate bars, pralines and truffles.
Düsseldorf Christmas Market food
Here are some of the most popular Christmas market foods you’ll find in Düsseldorf.
Bratwurst
These savoury grilled sausages, typically made from pork, are one of the most popular foods at the Christmas markets. Served hot off the grill, bratwursts usually come in a fresh bun with mustard or ketchup. Don’t forget to pair them with some French fries!
Reibekuchen
These potato pancakes are crispy on the outside and soft on the inside. They’re typically served with apple sauce or sour cream, a perfect vegetarian meal.
Flammkuchen
Flammkuchen is the German version of pizza. This thin, crispy pizza is topped with crème fraîche, onions, and bacon.
Glühwein
No German Christmas market experience is complete without a steaming mug of Glühwein. This is mulled wine, infused with spices like cinnamon, cloves, and orange peel. It’s the perfect beverage to keep you warm as you explore the market stalls.
Best Christmas markets near Düsseldorf
Cologne Christmas Market
Located about 40 minutes away by train, the Cologne Christmas Market is the most popular one near Düsseldorf. The city is home to 8 Christmas markets, so I’d highly recommend staying overnight so you can explore them all. However, if you’re visiting Cologne for a day trip, be sure not to miss the Cologne Cathedral Christmas Market, Heinzels Wintermärchen at Heumarkt, and Alter Markt.
Find more info in my complete guide to the best Christmas market in Cologne.
Essen Christmas Market
Less than thirty minutes away by train, the Essen Christmas Market makes for an ideal day trip from Düsseldorf during the holiday season. The city of Essen hosts 5 Christmas markets in its heart, including a Medieval Christmas market. The main market takes place at Kennedyplatz, with additional locations including Flachsmarkt, Kettwiger Straße, Theaterplatz, Markt, Porschekanzel, Kettwiger Straße and Burgplatz.
Thousands of illuminations and stunning light displays decorate the city’s streets and squares, following a different theme each year. In 2025, you’ll spot illuminated animals from all around the world, plus the popular teddy bear with its Christmas letterbox.
I highly recommend visiting the Essen Christmas Market in the late afternoon, so you can enjoy the magical light displays.
How to get to Essen
Take a train from Düsseldorf Hbf to Essen Hbf (20min journey). From there, it’s less than a 10-minute walk to the closest Christmas market at Kettwiger Straße.
Essen Christmas Market Opening times
From 13 November to 23 December 2026
From Sunday to Thursday – 11 AM to 9 PM
Fridays and Saturdays – 11 AM to 10 PM
Closed on 22 November (Totensonntag)
Address: Kennedyplatz, 45127 Essen-Stadtbezirke I, Germany
Essen Weihnachtsmarkt official website
Dortmund Christmas Market
With over 250 stalls, the Dortmund Christmas Market is one of the largest markets in Germany. It is also home to the largest Christmas tree in the world! Situated at Hansaplatz, the Christmas tree reaches a height of 45 meters (147.6 feet), decorated with around 48,000 LED lights.
The Dortmund Christmas Market is held at several locations in the city centre, with the main one being at Hansaplatz. Additionally, you can find stalls at Katharinentor, Kleppingstraße, and Reinoldikirche.
How to get to Dortmund
Take a train from Düsseldorf Hbf to Dortmund Hbf (50min journey). From there, it’s about a 15-minute walk to the main market at Hansaplatz.
Dortmund Christmas Market Opening times
From 19 November to 30 December 2026
From Monday to Thursday – 11 AM to 9 PM
Fridays and Saturdays – 11 AM to 10 PM
Sunday – 12 PM to 9 PM
Closed on 22 November (Totensonntag) and 25 December
24 December – 11 AM to 2 PM (only some stalls are open)
Address: Hansaplatz, 44137 Dortmund-Innenstadt-West, Germany
Dortmunder Weihnachtsmarkt official website
Düsseldorf Christmas markets 2026
- Handwerker Markt
- Kö-Bogen Markt
- Märchen Markt
- The Winter Village
- Altstadt Markt
- Schadow Markt
- Christmas promenade
FAQs about Düsseldorf Christmas Market
Yes, Düsseldorf hosts 6 Christmas markets, all located in the city centre. Running from November 19th to December 30th, 2026, the main Christmas market, Handwerker Markt, is situated adjacent to the City Hall.
The Düsseldorf Christmas market is worth visiting if you’re looking for a more authentic Christmas market with a local vibe. However, if this is your first Christmas trip to Germany, I’d recommend visiting the markets in Cologne, Berlin, Munich or Nuremberg.
The Christmas market in Düsseldorf starts on November 19, 2026, and continues until December 30, 2026. The stalls are open daily from 11 AM to 8 PM, except on November 22 (Totensonntag) and Christmas Day (25 December.
Yes, the Düsseldorf Christmas market remains open until December 30.
Choose the Cologne Christmas market. The Christmas market in Cologne is one of the best, largest and most famous in Europe. It is spread across several locations throughout the city, including the famous Cologne Cathedral.
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