Munich Christkindlmarkt 2026

The Munich Christkindlmarkt 2026 (Münchner Christkindlmarkt) is the traditional Christmas market on Marienplatz, the main square of Munich, Germany. It runs from 20 November to 24 December 2026 and is closed on 22 November. With craft stalls, Advent music and Bavarian traditions, it suits families, couples and groups on a winter city break or a Christmas market tour.

About Munich Christkindlmarkt

According to the official website, the market's roots are said to go back to the 14th century and the St Nicholas markets. It was renamed 'Christmarkt' in 1806 and found its permanent home in the heart of the city in 1972. The organiser is the City of Munich, through its Department of Labour and Economic Development.

Highlights described on the official website include:

• The Christmas tree on Marienplatz, which the official site says is 25 metres high and lit with 3,000 candles.
• The Kripperlmarkt near St Peter's Church, which the organiser calls probably Germany's largest nativity market, with stalls selling nativity scenes, figures and accessories.
• Advent music from the Town Hall balcony, with traditional Bavarian music, wind ensembles and choirs from Sunday to Thursday, starting at 5.15 pm.
• The Krampus run, a show of Alpine customs with figures such as Krampus and Perchten, organised with Munich's first Krampus group.
• 'Carols under the Christmas Tree', a free sing-along, and a Heavenly Workshop for children aged 6 to 12 in the Town Hall.
• The Christkindltram, a festive tram that runs through the old town on selected days.

The official site also says food and drink options include vegan, gluten-free and lactose-free choices.

Munich Christkindlmarkt 2026 dates and opening hours

The Munich Christkindlmarkt 2026 dates are 20 November to 24 December 2026, at Marienplatz, in front of the New Town Hall. Opening hours for 2026, according to the official website:

• Monday to Saturday: 10 am – 9 pm
• Sunday: 10 am – 8 pm
• 22 November: closed
• 24 December: 10 am – 2 pm

Programme details, including Krampus run dates, are on the official Munich Christkindlmarkt website.

How to get to Munich for the Christkindlmarkt

The city is served by Munich Airport (MUC), north-east of the centre. S-Bahn trains connect the airport with Marienplatz station, right under the market. Taxis and pre-booked transfers are also available.

Marienplatz is in the pedestrian zone, so groups on coaches will need to use drop-off points outside the old town. Munich's S-Bahn and U-Bahn are the easiest way to reach the square.

Where to stay

For hotels near Marienplatz, consider the Altstadt (old town) for walking access, the area around the main station (Hauptbahnhof) for value and transport links, or Maxvorstadt and Isarvorstadt for a local feel. Advent weekends are busy, so book early.

Planning a group trip to Munich Christkindlmarkt

A Munich Christmas market travel package is easy to sell. Tips for agencies:

• The market is an open public space. Some extras, such as the Heavenly Workshop and the Christkindltram, have limited places, and the official site says group reservations for the tram are not possible.
• Visit in the early evening for the lights and the Advent music from the Town Hall balcony.
• Combine Munich with other Christmas markets in Bavaria or neighbouring countries for a multi-city tour.
• Advise warm clothes and comfortable shoes.
• Ask travellers to check the official entry requirements for Germany and the Schengen area.

Frequently asked questions

When is the Munich Christkindlmarkt 2026?

The Munich Christkindlmarkt runs from 20 November to 24 December 2026 at Marienplatz. It is closed on 22 November and closes at 2 pm on 24 December.

Where is the Munich Christmas market held?

It is held on Marienplatz, Munich's central square in front of the New Town Hall. The Kripperlmarkt for nativity items is nearby, near St Peter's Church.

Do I need tickets for the Munich Christkindlmarkt?

No ticket is needed to visit the market. Some extras, such as the Christkindltram or the children's workshop, have limited places, so check the official website.

What is the nearest airport to Munich?

Munich Airport (MUC) serves the city. S-Bahn trains run from the airport to Marienplatz station, directly below the Christmas market.

What are the opening hours of the Munich Christkindlmarkt?

In 2026 it opens Monday to Saturday from 10 am to 9 pm and Sunday from 10 am to 8 pm. It is closed on 22 November and opens 10 am to 2 pm on 24 December.

Travel agencies can book flights for travellers going to the Munich Christkindlmarkt 2026 in the QuickOTA B2B Panel and set their own markup.