German Christmas Market Destinations in North Rhine-Westphalia

Call it a traditional Christkindl market or refer to it as a German Christmas market; these locales are staples of North Rhine-Westphalia's holiday season. The Grinch is no match for their scents, sounds and festive atmosphere. Which Christmas markets are the best?

Christmas Market in Dortmund

Dortmund's Christmas Market is billed as one of the "largest and most beautiful Christmas Markets in Germany," and rightfully so. Consider that a guided tour around the locale takes up two hours, and it is clear that there is a lot to see and do.

Visit the 147-foot tall Christmas tree topped with a 13-foot tall angel. Some 48,000 lights shine brightly, just as local artisans present hand-crafted toys and ornaments. Mulled cider, handmade chocolate confectioneries and - of course - bratwurst and Dortmunder Reibekuchen fill empty stomachs.

Christkindl Market in Aachen

Spanning the area between Aachen's cathedral and its city hall building, this German Christmas market capitalizes on these historic backdrops to deliver a truly magical holiday experience. While other holiday markets shine during the dusk hours, visit this venue at night, when all the lights are providing a festive illumination and even the cathedral features holiday lights. Enjoy customary treats and drinks; look for the woodworkers - it is their offerings that are an annual highlight of Aachen's market.

International Christmas Market in Essen

There is a little something for everyone at Essen's international Christmas market. The main attraction is a 148-foot tall Ferris wheel that offers a stunning look above the roofs of the city. Event organizers estimate that there will be 45,000 lights used above the venue and another 600,000 all around the market.

Participate in candle-making activities, the proceeds of which benefit locally supported charities. Stock up on paper crafts and handmade cards, enjoy traditional cakes and do not forget to follow your nose to the Gluehwein shack.

Muenster Christmas Markets

Muenster is unique in that it hosts five unconnected Christmas markets throughout its downtown area. Attendees love the idea of window-shopping only to suddenly turn a corner and face a festively lit market. Walk a bit further, and another market opens up.

Tourists are encouraged to spend a few hours taking in all the sights and sounds that these Christmas markets have to offer. Each has its own draw and unique features. For example, the Kiepenkerl monument will become the center of a Christmas village complete with booths and culinary delights. The Aegidiimarkt venue highlights a gorgeous creche scene as well as fairy tale displays.

Venue Information

Dortmunder Weihnachtsmarkt

Nov. 17 to Dec. 23 (closed 11-20-11)

Königswall 18 a in 44137 Dortmund

Open Monday through Thursday from 10 a.m. to 9 p.m.; until 10 p.m. on Friday and Saturday; 12 p.m. to 9 p.m. on Sunday

+49 231 18-99-9222

Aachener Weihnachtsmarkt

Nov. 18 to Dec. 23

Klosterplatz 2in 52062 Aachen

Open Monday through Saturday from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m.; Sunday from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m.

+49 (0)2 41/2 51 41

Internationaler Weihnachtsmarkt Essen

Nov. 17 to Dec. 23

Rathenaustrasse 2 - Theaterpassage - in 45127 Essen

Open daily from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m.; 11-12-11 only from 6 p.m. to 10 p.m.

+49 201 88 720-0

Christmas Markets in Muenster

Nov. 21 to Dec. 23

Prinzipalmarkt 10 in Muenster

Tuesday to Friday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.; Saturday and Sunday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

02 51/4 92-27 24