The Erfurt Christmas Market (Erfurter Weihnachtsmarkt) is a seasonal market in Erfurt, in the central German state of Thuringia. Visitors can wander through more than 200 charming wooden stalls spread across the city’s most beautiful locations – from the majestic Cathedral Square (Domplatz) to the Fish Market (Fischmarkt), across the scenic Castle Bridge (Schlösserbrücke), along the bustling Anger boulevard, and extending to Willy Brandt Square (Willy-Brandt-Platz) right in front of Erfurt’s central train station.
The market showcases Thuringia’s culinary heritage, with local specialties taking centre stage. The Erfurt “Schittchen” (a traditional Christmas cake unique to the region) and the famous Thuringian bratwurst are particular highlights that you shouldn’t miss. Beyond delicious treats, shoppers can discover exquisite Thuringian handicrafts including handmade Christmas ornaments, traditional blue-print textiles, and a wide selection of locally crafted pottery, alongside beautiful folk art pieces from the Ore Mountains region.
Spectacular decorations create an unforgettable atmosphere throughout the Erfurt Christmas Market. A towering 25-meter Christmas tree illuminates the night with festive lights, while a remarkable nativity scene features 14 hand-carved, nearly life-sized wooden figures. Other must-see attractions include an authentic 12-meter Ore Mountain Christmas pyramid and a magnificent 5-meter Advent wreath adorning the cathedral steps.
For those tired of walking around and wishing to explore beyond the market itself, a convenient guided bus tour departs from the special Domplatz-Süd stop, offering a fascinating journey through Erfurt’s medieval Old Town with city guides providing commentary on the historic churches and buildings along the route. Click here to learn more!
There’s also a “Katerexpress” (Hangover Express) – a restored 1967 tram that once served Erfurt’s rail network and now offers three holiday experiences: a relaxing “Classic” ride to enjoy the Christmas decorations in peace, a whimsical “Fairy Tale” journey featuring Christmas stories perfect for families with children, or the “Anecdotes” tour where passengers can sip mulled wine while listening to tales about Erfurt’s history and Christmas traditions from an experienced city guide. Click here to learn more!
2025 market dates – Erfurt Christmas Market
25 November – 22 December 2025
Opening hours on market days – Domplatz
Monday: 10am – 8pm
Tuesday: 10am – 8pm
Wednesday: 10am – 8pm
Thursday: 10am – 9pm
Friday: 10am – 10pm
Saturday: 10am – 10pm
Sunday: 10am – 8pm
Opening hours on market days – Fischmarkt, Schlösserbrücke, Anger, Willy-Brandt-Platz (Bahnhofsvorplatz)
Monday: 10am – 8pm
Tuesday: 10am – 8pm
Wednesday: 10am – 8pm
Thursday: 10am – 8pm
Friday: 10am – 8pm
Saturday: 10am – 8pm
Sunday: 10am – 8pm
Market tips
- During the Christmas market, the parking garages in the city are usually very busy due to the large number of visitors
- Instead, use the tram and buses, as well as the park-and-ride options on the outskirts of the city, which are connected to the local public transport system. Click here to learn more about reaching the Christmas market.
Website (Erfurt Tourism) • Website
Find more Christmas markets in Germany!
Featured image © Kulturdirektion Erfurt, Hans P. Szyszka / CC-BY-NC-ND
