Freiburg Christmas Market (2023): A Magical Experience in the Heart of the Black Forest
The Freiburg Christmas Market, nestled in the heart of the Black Forest, is a magical destination that offers an unforgettable experience for all who visit. This fantastic city hosts a wonderful Weihnachtsmarkt which we believe is one of the top 5 Christmas Markets in the Black Forest.
This comprehensive guide will walk you through the market's rich history, festive atmosphere, enticing shopping options, mouthwatering culinary delights, and fun activities. Plus, we'll cover what to do in Freiburg, how to get there, where to stay, and the best time to visit. Finally, we'll address the most frequently asked questions and share some insider tips to make your visit truly memorable.
Want to experience more Christmas Markets in the Black Forest? Check out our additional guides covering Ravenna Gorge, Baden-Baden, and Gengenbach!
History of the Freiburg Christmas Market
The Freiburg Christmas Market has a long and rich history dating back to the late Middle Ages. The city of Freiburg, founded in 1120, has always been a bustling hub of trade and commerce, and the festive market has been an essential part of its winter celebrations since the 15th century. The market has evolved over the centuries, and today it's a beloved holiday destination for both locals and tourists alike, with its charming wooden stalls, twinkling lights, and festive atmosphere.
The Enchanting Atmosphere
Stepping into the Freiburg Christmas Market is like stepping into a winter wonderland. The historic city center, with its cobblestone streets and half-timbered houses, is transformed into a festive scene filled with twinkling lights, the scent of mulled wine, and the sounds of traditional Christmas music.
The market's 130+ beautifully decorated wooden stalls are spread across multiple locations, including the Rathausplatz, Unterlindenplatz, and Kartoffelmarkt. As you wander through the market, you'll be captivated by the warm, welcoming atmosphere and the friendly locals eager to share their holiday cheer.
When is the Best Time to Visit
The Freiburg Weihnachtsmarkt typically runs from late November to late December (just before Christmas.) The market is open daily from 10:00 am to 8:30 pm, with the festive atmosphere peaking on weekends and evenings. To avoid the crowds, consider visiting on weekdays or during the early hours.
2023 Dates and Times:
November 23rd through December 23rd.
10am through 8:30pm
For up to date times, be sure to visit their official website.
SOOO many unique Christmas ornaments to buy.
What to Buy at the Freiburg Christmas Market
The Freiburg Weihnachtsmarkt is a shopper's paradise, offering a vast array of German handmade gifts, crafts, and festive decorations. Some of the most popular items include:
Handcrafted ornaments: Choose from beautifully crafted wooden, glass, or ceramic ornaments to adorn your Christmas tree or give as gifts to loved ones.
Nutcrackers and wooden figurines: Traditional German nutcrackers and intricately carved wooden figurines make for delightful holiday decorations or collectibles.
Candles and candle holders: Add a warm glow to your home with hand-poured candles and unique candle holders in various shapes and sizes.
Local handicrafts: Support local artisans by purchasing their beautifully crafted pottery, textiles, and jewelry.
Christmas delicacies: Bring home traditional German treats like Lebkuchen (gingerbread), Stollen (fruitcake), and Marzipan (almond paste sweets).
Want to learn more about unique German Christmas traditions? Check out our article here!
Ashton & Jack shopping for Lebkuchen.
Many different Bratwursts to choose from.
What to Eat at the Freiburg Christmas Market Food
Your taste buds are in for a treat at the Freiburg Weihnachtsmarkt. Indulge in a smorgasbord of traditional Black Forest German culinary delights, including:
Glühwein (mulled wine): Warm up with a steaming mug of Glühwein, made with red or white wine, spices, and citrus fruits. There is also Kinderpunsch (alcohol free) for children and those who don’t drink. Enjoy responsibly!
Bratwurst: At German Christmas markets, visitors can savor a wide variety of Bratwursts, a classic and much-loved street food. Served with crusty bread, mustard, or sauerkraut, these juicy and aromatic sausages are cooked to perfection on open-air grills. Exploring the diverse Bratwurst offerings at the market is a must-try experience, allowing visitors to indulge in the authentic taste of German culinary traditions.
Flammkuchen: Flammkuchen, also known as "tarte flambée," is a popular and scrumptious treat often found at Christmas markets in Germany and the Alsace region of France. This traditional dish features a thin, crispy flatbread base, topped with a delicious combination of ingredients, including crème fraîche, onions, and bacon or ham. The flammkuchen is then baked in a wood-fired oven, resulting in a perfectly crisp and flavorful snack.
While the classic version remains a favorite, many vendors at the Weihnachtsmarkt also offer a variety of innovative and creative toppings, such as smoked salmon, goat cheese, or seasonal vegetables, catering to a wide range of tastes. As visitors explore the festive market, flammkuchen provides a delectable and satisfying treat to enjoy while experiencing the enchanting atmosphere and delightful offerings of the holiday season.
Schupfnudeln: Schupfnudeln, a delicious and hearty dish, is a popular treat found at German Christmas markets. These finger-shaped potato dumplings have a soft, smooth texture and are made from a mixture of mashed potatoes, flour, and eggs. Traditionally, Schupfnudeln are either boiled or pan-fried until golden brown and served with a variety of savory or sweet accompaniments.
In the savory version, Schupfnudeln are commonly paired with sauerkraut, bacon, or mushrooms, offering a warm and comforting meal perfect for the chilly winter weather. For those with a sweet tooth, Schupfnudeln can also be served with sugar, cinnamon, and applesauce or fruit compote, making for a delightful and indulgent dessert.
Lebkuchen: Lebkuchen is a traditional German gingerbread treat, synonymous with the festive atmosphere at Christmas markets. These sweet, spiced cookies come in various shapes, with heart-shaped ones being the most popular, often adorned with colorful icing and messages. Made with a blend of honey, molasses, and spices such as ginger, cinnamon, and cloves, Lebkuchen boasts a unique, rich flavor profile. Biting into these delightful confections is a must when visiting a German Weihnachtsmarkt, as they truly capture the essence of the holiday season.
Roasted nuts: Roasted nuts are a quintessential and mouth-watering delight at German Weihnachtsmarkts. These delectable treats fill the air with a warm, enticing aroma that beckons visitors from afar. A variety of nuts, such as almonds, hazelnuts, and cashews, are coated in a delicious blend of sugar, spices, and sometimes even cocoa, creating a sweet, crunchy, and irresistible outer layer. Served in charming paper cones, roasted nuts provide a delightful, warming snack for visitors as they stroll through the festive market.
Raclette: Raclette, although originally Swiss, is a mouth-watering delight that has gained popularity at German Christmas markets in recent years. This savory dish involves melting Raclette cheese, typically on a specialized grill or over an open flame, until it reaches a creamy, gooey consistency. The melted cheese is then scraped onto a plate and served over a variety of accompaniments such as boiled potatoes, pickles, onions, and cured meats. The warm, rich, and indulgent flavors of Raclette provide a comforting and satisfying treat for visitors as they enjoy the bustling atmosphere and festive charm of the German Weihnachtsmarkt.
Ferris wheel in the Kartoffelmarkt.
What to do at The Freiburg Christmas Market
At the Freiburg Weihnachtsmarkt, visitors can enjoy a variety of activities, making it a fun and festive experience for all ages. Some of the things to do at the market include:
Eat the food! See above for all of the delicacies to try. Some might surprise you.
Drink the Glühwein: A European Christmas Market is not complete without the traditional or alcohol free Glühwein. Enjoy responsibly!
Visit the candle workshop: One of the unique attractions at the Freiburg Weihnachtsmarkt is the captivating candle workshop. Here, visitor can create their own personalized candles, under expert supervision. This interactive and immersive experience adds a warm glow to the festive atmosphere, making it a memorable and delightful activity for visitors of all ages.
Visit the Children’s Bakery (Kinderbackstube): Here is a delightful experience for the youngest visitors. This charming attraction invites kids to roll up their sleeves and try their hand at baking traditional holiday treats under the guidance of friendly, experienced bakers. As they learn to create delicious cookies and gingerbread, the little ones can enjoy the fun and magic of the festive season, making the Children's Bakery a perfect stop for families looking to share unforgettable moments together at the market. The cost is about 3 euros.
Enjoy the Ferris wheel: This wooden antique 12 meter tall Ferris wheel is an iconic ride at the Freiburg Christmas market. Surrounded by bright Christmas lights, located in the Kartoffelmarkt, this Ferris wheel has a speed of 8 laps per minute. Quite quick! Maybe ride this before you’ve had too much Glühwein.
Chisel out a gemstone: One of the traditional wooden stalls at the Freiburg Christmas Market has a fun activity for all ages, chiseling a gemstone! That’s right, take a hammer and open a rock to reveal your new reward. Very fun for children.
Marry-go-round (Carousel): Let your kids have a great time by riding the antique marry-go-round in the Rathausplatz. It features many unique old vehicles, many of which have a horn that your children will love.
Hint: It’s right next to two Bratwurst stands… so enjoy some snacks while your kids have fun!
Glass blowing: The Freiburg Weihnachtsmarkt includes many arts and crafts. To top these all off, enjoy watching a master glass blower create figurines, glasses, vases and ornaments!
Shopping: Browse the beautifully decorated wooden stalls offering a wide range of handmade crafts, unique gifts, and festive decorations, such as ornaments, nutcrackers, candles, local handicrafts, and Christmas delicacies.
Marry-go-round at the Freiburg Christmas Market.
Let your kids have fun making some Christmas cookies here!
These activities, combined with the market's festive atmosphere, make the Freiburg Christmas Market a delightful experience for visitors during the holiday season.
Check out our YouTube video here on what we typically do during a Saturday in Freiburg:
What to Do in Freiburg
While the Christmas market is undoubtedly the main attraction, there's plenty more to see and do in Freiburg:
Visit the Freiburg Cathedral (Münster): Marvel at the stunning Gothic architecture and take in the panoramic views from the tower.
Explore the Black Forest: Go for a hike or take a scenic drive through the picturesque Black Forest. It is extra special during the winter time
Enjoy Winter Activities. Go skiing, snowboarding, sledding and snow shoeing on Schauinsland and Feldberg.
Discover the Schauinsland mountain: Ride the cable car to the summit and enjoy breathtaking views of the city and surrounding landscape.
Stroll along the Bächle: Wander the charming streets of Freiburg, following the narrow water channels called Bächle that run throughout the city.
Visit local museums: Learn about the region's history and culture at the Augustiner Museum, the Museum of City History, or the Colombischlössle Archeological Museum.
Go on a short trip to the Ravenna Gorge Christmas Market: Arguably one of the most mesmerizing and beautiful Christmas markets in Germany, this place will certainly leave you stunned. Shuttle buses and trains run from Freiburg. See our experience here!
Go here to see our fully comprehensive article of what to do and see while visiting Freiburg!
How to Get There
Freiburg is easily accessible by various modes of transportation:
By air:
The nearest international airport is EuroAirport Basel-Mulhouse-Freiburg, located about 70 km (43 miles) from the city. From there, you can take a bus or train to Freiburg.
By train:
Freiburg is well connected to the German railway network (Deutsche Bahn) and neighboring countries, with regular trains from major cities like Frankfurt, Munich, and Zurich.
By car:
The city is easily accessible by car via the A5 autobahn from Frankfurt or Basel, and the B31 highway from the Black Forest. Parking is relatively easy if you come early, there are many parking garages to choose from.
For a comprehensive explanation to help you navigate your way to Freiburg, visit our article here.
Where to Stay
Freiburg offers a range of accommodations to suit every budget:
Luxury hotels: Indulge in upscale accommodations at the Hotel Colombi, Dorint An den Thermen, or the Hotel Stadt Freiburg.
Mid-range hotels: Enjoy comfortable lodgings at the Hotel Rheingold, Hotel am Stadtgarten, or the Mercure Hotel Panorama.
Budget accommodations: Save money by staying at the Hostel & Gästehaus Vauban, B&B Hotel Freiburg-Süd, or the Jugendherberge Freiburg International.
FAQ
Is the Freiburg Christmas Market suitable for children?
Yes, the market offers plenty of activities for children, including merry-go-rounds, Ferris wheels, and workshops to make cookies and candles. The festive atmosphere and family-friendly activities make it an enjoyable experience for visitors of all ages.
Are the market stalls and activities wheelchair accessible?
Yes, the majority of the market stalls and activities are wheelchair accessible. However, the cobblestone streets and narrow passages in some areas may pose a challenge for individuals with mobility issues. It's recommended to visit during off-peak hours for easier navigation.
Is there an entrance fee for the market?
No, the Freiburg Christmas Market is free to enter, and many of the activities and events are also free of charge.
Can I pay with a credit card at the market stalls?
While some larger stalls and food vendors may accept credit cards, it's a good idea to carry cash as many smaller stalls and vendors only accept cash payments.
Are dogs allowed at the market?
Yes, dogs are allowed at the Freiburg Christmas Market. However, they must be kept on a leash and under control at all times.
Tips for your Visit
Dress warmly: The weather can be quite chilly during the Christmas season, so be sure to wear layers, including a warm coat, hat, gloves, and comfortable shoes. Check out our article here on what to wear in Germany in the winter.
Plan your visit: To make the most of your trip, plan your visit to the market and the city's attractions in advance. Allocate enough time to explore the market and take part in activities and events. Go here for our dedicated article on visiting Freiburg, it will help you plan.
Arrive early: To avoid the crowds and fully enjoy the market's offerings, try to visit during off-peak hours, such as weekdays or early mornings.
Taste the local cuisine: Don't miss out on the opportunity to indulge in traditional German culinary delights, such as Glühwein, Bratwurst, Flammkuchen, and Lebkuchen.
Bring a reusable shopping bag: With so many unique items and tasty treats to purchase, it's a good idea to bring a reusable shopping bag to carry your purchases and reduce waste.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the Freiburg Christmas Market offers a magical experience for visitors, with its rich history, festive atmosphere, enticing shopping options, mouthwatering culinary delights, and fun activities. This comprehensive guide provides all the information you need to plan a memorable visit, including details on what to do in Freiburg, how to get there, where to stay, and the best time to visit. With our frequently asked questions and insider tips, you'll be well-prepared for an unforgettable holiday experience in the heart of the Black Forest.
Fröhe Weihnachten!
