In this article, we will look at Where to stay in Munich for Christmas Markets, best areas to stay in Munich for Christmas Markets, how to get to the Christmas Market, and the best hotels in Munich for all budget travelers.
Munich is a wonderful destination for experiencing the magic of Christmas markets. The city’s Christmas markets, or “Weihnachtsmärkte” in German, are known for their festive atmosphere, charming decorations, delicious food, and unique handmade crafts.
Some of the best Christmas markets to visit in Munich during the holiday season:
- Marienplatz Christkindlmarkt
- Munich Residenz Christmas Market
- Viktualienmarkt Christmas Market
- Tollwood Winter Festival
- Chinese Tower Christmas Market
- Pink Christmas Market
- Kripperlmarkt (Nativity Market)
- Schwabing Christmas Market
While visiting Munich for its Christmas markets, make sure to indulge in some traditional Bavarian treats like Glühwein (mulled wine), Bratwurst (grilled sausages), roasted chestnuts, and Lebkuchen (gingerbread cookies).
Munich can get quite cold in December, so be prepared for chilly weather. Dress warmly with layers, including a good winter coat, hat, gloves, and a scarf.
Enjoy the festive lights, decorations, and the overall warm and welcoming holiday atmosphere that Munich offers during the Christmas season. Keep in mind that the markets usually open at the end of November and run until December 24th, so plan your visit accordingly.
There are several great areas to stay in if you want to explore them during the holiday season. Consider staying in the city center to have easy access to the markets.
Where to stay in Munich for Christmas Markets?
The best areas to stay in Munich for Christmas Markets are Marienplatz (Altstadt/ Old Town), Munich Residenz, Viktualienmarkt, Nymphenburg Palace, Schwabing, Haidhausen, Sendlinger Tor. These areas offer easy access to Christmas Markets both on foot and by public transportation.
In general, Marienplatz, Viktualienmarkt, and Munich Residenz are the best areas to stay in Munich for tourists and first-time travelers who want to be at the heart of the action. If you prefer a quieter, more residential feel, consider areas like Nymphenburg Palace or Haidhausen.
When booking your accommodations, make sure to do so well in advance, especially if you plan to visit during the peak Christmas market season. Munich is a popular destination during this time, and hotels tend to fill up quickly.
Map of the best areas to stay in Munich for Christmas Markets:
Overviews of best areas to stay in Munich for Christmas Markets
Here is an overview of recommended areas in Munich for Christmas Markets and why you should stay in each area:
| Best areas in Munich for Christmas Markets | Why should you stay in this area? |
|---|---|
| Marienplatz (Altstadt/ Old Town) | This is the heart of Munich Old Town and home to the city’s most famous Christmas market, the Christkindlmarkt. Staying in the Marienplatz area will put you right in the center of the festive action, with easy access to the market, historic sites and shops. |
| Munich Residenz | The Christmas village in the courtyard of the Munich Residenz Palace offers a unique and historical setting for a Christmas market. You can explore various stalls and enjoy the beautiful backdrop of the palace. |
| Viktualienmarkt | This area is also centrally located and within walking distance of Marienplatz. Viktualienmarkt itself is transformed into a charming Christmas market during the holiday season, and you’ll find plenty of nearby attractions and restaurants. |
| Nymphenburg Palace | If you prefer a quieter and more regal setting, consider staying near Nymphenburg Palace. While it’s not as central as the other options, it offers a unique and elegant atmosphere, and you can visit the palace’s Christmas market. |
| Schwabing | If you prefer a more relaxed and trendy atmosphere, consider staying in the Schwabing district. Schwabing has its own Christmas market and offers a quieter and more local experience compared to the city center. |
| Haidhausen | Haidhausen is a great neighborhood to stay in during the Christmas season. It has a cozy, neighborhood feel and hosts its own Christmas market at Weißenburger Platz. It’s also conveniently located near the city center. |
| Sendlinger Tor | This area is close to the Sendlinger Tor Christmas market and is well-connected to the city center. It’s a convenient location for exploring the markets. |
| Glockenbachviertel | The gay-friendly neighborhood often hosts a Christmas market with a unique and welcoming atmosphere. It’s a great place to find artisanal gifts and enjoy the local scene. |
How to get to the Munich Christmas Market?
Munich has an efficient public transportation system, which includes trams, buses, U-Bahn, and S-Bahn (suburban train). The MVV is the public transportation authority, and you can purchase tickets for all modes of transportation through them.
Single tickets, day passes, and multi-day passes are available. The S-Bahn is a convenient way to travel within the city and its outskirts. Consider purchasing a Munich Card for unlimited travel on public transportation and discounts at various attractions.
Munich is served by the Munich Airport (Flughafen München), also known as Franz Josef Strauss Airport, one of Germany’s busiest airports. From the airport, you can easily reach the city center using the S-Bahn (suburban train) or by taking a taxi or shuttle bus.
Munich’s main train station, Hauptbahnhof, is one of the largest in Europe and is well-connected to various European cities, including Vienna, Zurich, and Paris. You can take high-speed trains (ICE) or regional trains to reach Munich.
Munich’s city center is pedestrian-friendly, and many of its attractions, restaurants, and shops are within walking distance of each other. Exploring on foot is a great way to discover the city’s charm.
8 Best areas to stay in Munich for Christmas Markets are:
1. Marienplatz (Altstadt/ Old Town)
Marienplatz is one of the best areas to stay in Munich for Christmas Markets. It is located in the heart of Munich Old town and is home to Christkindlmarkt, one of Munich’s most famous Christmas markets.
Marienplatz’s central location makes it incredibly convenient for exploring the city’s Christmas markets. Many of the most popular markets are within walking distance or a short tram ride away.
The Christkindlmarkt is known for its stunning Christmas tree, the enchanting town hall backdrop, and a wide variety of traditional German holiday treats and crafts.
Marienplatz is surrounded by shops and boutiques, offering plenty of opportunities for holiday shopping. You can find unique gifts, ornaments, and souvenirs to commemorate your visit.
Marienplatz is often the starting point for Munich’s annual Christmas parade, featuring festive floats, music, and performances that add to the holiday spirit.
In some years, Marienplatz hosts an ice rink during the holiday season, providing additional entertainment for visitors.
In addition to the Christkindlmarkt at Marienplatz, you can have easy access to other popular Christmas markets in Munich Old Town including the Eiszauber at the Karlsplatz-Stachus, Christmas Village in the Kaiserhof of the Residenz, and Christkindlmarkt at Sendlinger Tor.
Staying in Marienplatz also allows you easy access to cultural attractions like the New Town Hall (Neues Rathaus), St. Peter’s Church (Peterskirche), and the Viktualienmarkt.
The area around Marienplatz offers a variety of bars and nightlife options, allowing you to enjoy the holiday festivities by day and night.
While Marienplatz is an excellent choice for experiencing Munich’s Christmas markets, keep in mind that it can be quite popular and crowded during this time of year. Be sure to book your accommodations well in advance if you plan to stay in this area during the holiday season.
Best places to stay in Munich in Marienplatz for Christmas Markets:
- Luxury ($$$): DO & CO Hotel München
- Mid-range ($$): Platzl Hotel – Superior
- Budget ($): Hotel Schlicker
2. Munich Residenz
The Munich Residenz is a historic palace complex, and during the Christmas season, it transforms into a charming and picturesque Christmas village. Staying nearby allows you to experience the magical atmosphere of this location, with its beautifully decorated stalls and the Residenz backdrop.
The Munich Residenz is centrally located in Munich’s Altstadt (Old Town), making it convenient for exploring other Christmas markets and attractions.
In addition to the Christmas Village at the Residence, you’ll be within walking distance of many other markets, such as Marienplatz, Viktualienmarkt, and Tollwood, allowing you to easily visit multiple markets in one day.
Best places to stay near Munich Residenz for Christmas Markets:
- Luxury ($$$): Hotel Bayerischer Hof
- Mid-range ($$): Hotel Opera
- Budget ($): Unsöld’s Factory Hotel
3. Viktualienmarkt
Viktualienmarkt is a popular area to stay in Munich, especially during the Christmas season. It is within walking distance of several famous Christmas markets in Munich, including the Marienplatz Christkindlmarkt, which is the city’s central and most renowned Christmas market.
The entire area around Viktualienmarkt is beautifully decorated during the Christmas season, creating a festive atmosphere that enhances the holiday experience. You can enjoy the holiday lights, decorations, and the general sense of celebration right outside your doorstep.
Viktualienmarkt is Munich’s most famous open-air food market, and it’s known for its stalls offering a wide variety of culinary delights such as roasted chestnuts, gingerbread cookies, and mulled wine.
Beyond the Christmas markets, Viktualienmarkt is also conveniently located near the historic Old Town, the Glockenspiel, and numerous museums and churches such as Münchner Stadtmuseum, Jewish Museum, Beer & Oktoberfest Museum, and Isar Gate.
Best places to stay in Munich in Viktualienmarkt for Christmas Markets:
- Luxury ($$$): Louis Hotel
- Mid-range ($$): Haus im Tal
- Budget ($): Hotel Am Markt
4. Schwabing
Schwabing is a popular area to stay in Munich during the Christmas season. It is well-located within Munich and offers easy access to some of the city’s most famous Christmas markets.
The Schwabing area itself also hosts smaller, charming Christmas markets, such as the Schwabing Christmas markets at Münchner Freiheit. It is also close to the Märchen Bazar (Fairytale bazaar) at Olympiapark, the Christmas Market at the Chinese Tower in the English Garden.
The English Garden, one of the largest urban parks in the world, is located nearby. During the winter months, the park transforms into a beautiful winter wonderland, with opportunities for ice skating and winter sports.
Schwabing is home to Ludwig Maximilian University of Munich, one of Germany’s oldest universities. This adds to the youthful and intellectual atmosphere of the area.
Best places to stay in Munich in Schwabing for Christmas Markets:
- Luxury ($$$): Andaz Munich Schwabinger Tor – a concept by Hyatt
- Mid-range ($$): Steigenberger Hotel München
- Budget ($): Hotel Leopold
5. Nymphenburg Palace
Nymphenburg Palace is a lovely area to stay in Munich, especially during the Christmas season. While it might not be as central as some other neighborhoods, it offers a unique and charming experience for those looking to enjoy the Christmas markets in the city.
Nymphenburg Palace is surrounded by beautiful gardens and parkland. During the Christmas season, these grounds are often illuminated with festive lights and decorations, creating a magical atmosphere.
THe surrounding area of Neuhausen-Nymphenburg is home to several Christmas markets including the Neuhauser Christmas market / Christmas market at Rotkreuzplatz (square) and the Blutenburg Christmas at Blutenburg Castle.
While the city center can be bustling and crowded during the Christmas markets, Nymphenburg Palace offers a quieter and more serene environment. Staying in Nymphenburg gives you a taste of local Munich life.
Best places to stay in Nymphenburg Palace for Christmas Markets:
- Luxury ($$$): Amalienburg – Boutique & Boarding Hotel
- Mid-range ($$): Prinz Myshkin Parkhotel
- Budget ($): Hotel Kriemhild am Hirschgarten
6. Haidhausen
Haidhausen is situated to the east of the city center of Munich, across the Isar River. It is home to the Ostbahnhof (East Railway Station), a major transportation hub in the area.
Haidhausen is home to the Haidhausen Christmas Market located on Weissenburger Platz. You can easily walk or take public transportation to famous markets in the Munich Old Town like the Marienplatz Christmas Market, the Tollwood Winter Festival, and the Medieval Market.
Haidhausen itself is a picturesque and historic neighborhood with cobblestone streets, charming architecture, and a cozy atmosphere that complements the festive spirit of Christmas. It provides a quintessential Bavarian experience.
While Haidhausen is close to the city center, it tends to be less crowded and hectic compared to some other areas during the Christmas season. This allows for a more relaxed holiday experience.
Staying in Haidhausen provides a more local and authentic Munich experience, as it’s a residential neighborhood where many locals live.
In addition to the Christmas markets, Haidhausen is home to the Gasteig cultural center, which hosts concerts, exhibitions, and events throughout the year.
Best places to stay in Munich in Haidhausen for Christmas Markets:
- Luxury ($$$): Hotel München Palace
- Mid-range ($$): Hilton Munich City
- Budget ($): Motel One München – Deutsches Museum
7. Sendlinger Tor
Sendlinger Tor is a popular and centrally located area in Munich, and it is a great place to stay during the Christmas season. It has its own Sendlinger Tor Christmas Market, and is also located within walking distance of the famous Christkindlmarkt at Marienplatz and Pink Christmas Market.
The area around Sendlinger Tor is rich in cultural attractions, including the Asamkirche (Asam Church) and the Sendlinger Tor Gate itself. These landmarks are beautifully decorated during the Christmas season, adding to the festive ambiance.
There are various accommodation options in and around Sendlinger Tor, ranging from hotels to vacation rentals, catering to different budgets and preferences.
Best places to stay in Munich in Sendlinger Tor for Christmas Markets:
- Luxury ($$$): Hotel MIO by AMANO
- Mid-range ($$): City Aparthotel München – KOOS Hotel und Apartments
- Budget ($): myMINGA4 – Hotel & serviced Apartments
8. Glockenbachviertel
Glockenbachviertel is one of the best locations to stay in Munich for Christmas Markets due to its proximity to several Christmas Markets including the Tollwood – the winter festival at the Theresienwiese Oktoberfest fairground and the Pink Christmas at Stephansplatz.
The Glockenbachviertel is a popular neighborhood located in the Isarvorstadt-Ludwigsvorstadt district, just south of the historic city center of Munich. It is bordered by the Isar River to the east and the Sendlinger Tor area to the north.
Glockenbachviertel has a strong LGBTQ+ presence and is often considered Munich’s gay quarter. It is known for its welcoming and inclusive atmosphere, with numerous LGBTQ+-friendly bars, clubs, and shops.
The Glockenbachviertel is renowned for its nightlife. You can find numerous bars and clubs that cater to various tastes, from cozy pubs to lively dance floors.
While it’s a lively urban neighborhood, Glockenbachviertel is not far from green spaces like the Deutsches Museum, Isar River, and Gärtnerplatz, where you can relax, have a picnic, or go for a walk.
Best places to stay in Glockenbachviertel for Christmas Markets:
- Luxury ($$$): Hotel Deutsche Eiche
- Mid-range ($$): Hotel Admiral
- Budget ($): Hotel Olympic
See more:
- Where to stay in Munich for Oktoberfest
- Where to Stay in Munich First Time
- 28 Best things to do in Munich, Germany
In conclusion, Marienplatz (Altstadt), Munich Residenz, Viktualienmarkt, Nymphenburg Palace, Schwabing, Haidhausen, and Sendlinger Tor, are the best places to stay in Munich for Christmas Markets. With its excellent public transportation system, you can easily get to the Christmas Markets no matter where you stay.