Q: <strong>When do the Munich Christmas markets start in 2025?</strong>

Most Munich Christmas markets begin in late November , with many main ones (like Marienplatz) opening November 24, 2025. Double-check our list below for more info on market-specific opening dates!

Q: <strong>What’s the best time to visit Munich’s Christmas markets to avoid the crowds?</strong>

Weekday mornings and early afternoons (especially Monday–Thursday) are the most peaceful times to visit. People tend to leave work early on Fridays in Germany, so this day can be similar to the weekend in terms of crowds! Speaking of weekends, they (and also weekday evenings) get packed with both tourists and locals, so if you’re crowd-averse, avoid these times... or just lean into the chaos with a Glühwein in hand! All the body heat will keep you warmer, at least 😉

Q: Can I get by speaking only English in Munich?

In general, yes ! Most locals — especially in hospitality — speak English quite well. Most people under the age of 30 will be able to easily converse with you in English. You will find that older Germans, however, do not speak much English and small, local shops may not either. Google Translate or Deepl Translations (especially for voice and photo translations) are your best friends here! Learning a few German words like Dankeschön or Vielen Dank (thank you), Bitteschön (please/you’re welcome), and Frohe Weihnachten (Merry Christmas) is very appreciated in Germany and will earn you a smile!

Q: Is Munich safe to visit at night (especially to the Christmas markets)?

Yes, Munich is one of Europe’s safest cities . Just be sure to use the usual travel smarts, of course: watch your bag in crowds, don’t leave drinks unattended, and stick in pairs and groups for top safety. Even at night, though, the markets are friendly, festive, and very well-lit, and people tend to look out for each other here in Munich 💜

Question 1

When do the Munich Christmas markets start in 2025?

Accepted Answer

Most Munich Christmas markets begin in late November, with many main ones (like Marienplatz) opening November 24, 2025.

Double-check our list below for more info on market-specific opening dates!

Question 2

Are the Munich Christmas markets open after Christmas?

Accepted Answer

Most markets close on December 24th (which is Christmas Day in Germany!), though a handful spots like Tollwood Winter Festival or Märchenbazar will stay open or re-open for New Year’s Eve and Christkindlmarkt unterm Maibaum even stays open almost a full week into January!

So if you’re in town after Christmas, don't worry — you’ll still be able to enjoy plenty of cozy holiday vibes and events!

Question 3

What’s the best time to visit Munich’s Christmas markets to avoid the crowds?

Accepted Answer

Weekday mornings and early afternoons (especially Monday–Thursday) are the most peaceful times to visit. People tend to leave work early on Fridays in Germany, so this day can be similar to the weekend in terms of crowds!

Speaking of weekends, they (and also weekday evenings) get packed with both tourists and locals, so if you’re crowd-averse, avoid these times... or just lean into the chaos with a Glühwein in hand! All the body heat will keep you warmer, at least 😉

Question 4

Do I need cash in Munich, or can I pay with card?

Accepted Answer

Cards are widely accepted almost everywhere and you likely won't need cash, however there are some places where it will come in handy.

Most importantly: public bathrooms! You pay to either the attendant (often in a bowl or plate - 50 cents) or a machine (anywhere from 50 cents to 2 euros) before entering or upon leaving the bathroom.

💡 Tip: if you pay to go to the bathroom at a machine in a gas station, your receipt will usually have a coupon for the gas station store. So double check before you toss it!

In addition, smaller bakeries or cafes might also be cash only. Most have switched to card by now, but be sure to check for any visible card readers or just ask before you wait in line and pick out your favorite pastry!

For info just on the Christmas markets, peep the FAQ below.

Question 5

Do I need cash specifically for Munich’s Christmas markets?

Accepted Answer

Yes, for Munich Christmas markets you will certainly need cash! Almost all vendors are still cash only, especially for handmade gifts.

💡 Tip: ATMs near to Christmas markets can have long lines and charge extra transaction fees, so grab cash before heading to the markets to avoid any trouble!

Question 6

Can I get by speaking only English in Munich?

Accepted Answer

In general, yes! Most locals — especially in hospitality — speak English quite well. Most people under the age of 30 will be able to easily converse with you in English.

You will find that older Germans, however, do not speak much English and small, local shops may not either. Google Translate or Deepl Translations (especially for voice and photo translations) are your best friends here!

Learning a few German words like Dankeschön or Vielen Dank (thank you), Bitteschön (please/you’re welcome), and Frohe Weihnachten (Merry Christmas) is very appreciated in Germany and will earn you a smile!

Question 7

What type of plugs and voltage does Munich use?

Accepted Answer

Germany uses Type C & F plugs (two round prongs) and a 230 V supply voltage.

Bring a universal adapter and check if your devices support 230 V to avoid any unexpected sparks!

Question 8

How cold does Munich get in December?

Accepted Answer

Expect temps between -2 °C and 6 °C (28 °F – 43 °F). It often feels colder, though, thanks to the humidity and wind, so layer up and keep a steaming cup of your Christmas drink of choice in your hands for both warmth and a bit of festive joy!

Note that you will likely get some drizzling rain or light snow, as well. It is unlikely to snow and stick too much in November and December, though. It will often melt immediately or within a day or two!

Question 9

What should I wear to stay warm and comfortable at the markets?

Accepted Answer

Layers, layers, layers! A thermal base, insulated jacket, comfortable waterproof shoes (especially grippy ones for the icy roads), a cozy hat and gloves are a must.

You'll go from shivering while standing in a long line for an Ausgezogene (a deep fried and sugar dusted bit of heaven) to sweating in a packed hut while drinking steaming Glühwein!

Layers – and somewhere to hold them all as you take them off – is the most important rule for comfortably visiting Munich's Christmas markets.

Question 10

Is Munich safe to visit at night (especially to the Christmas markets)?

Accepted Answer

Yes, Munich is one of Europe’s safest cities. Just be sure to use the usual travel smarts, of course: watch your bag in crowds, don’t leave drinks unattended, and stick in pairs and groups for top safety.

Even at night, though, the markets are friendly, festive, and very well-lit, and people tend to look out for each other here in Munich 💜

Local’s Guide to Top Munich Christmas Markets 2025 (+ Hidden Gems)

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