December 6, 2025, 6:33 am | Read time: 4 minutes
The days are getting shorter, the city lights brighter, and the air is filled with the scent of cinnamon, punch, and roasted almonds. Now is the time when people love to stroll through Christmas markets and make small discoveries. The TRAVELBOOK editorial team has gathered information and compiled a selection of the most beautiful markets—this time in Thuringia.
With the Thuringian Forest, one of Germany’s most famous low mountain ranges, Thuringia is especially popular with nature and hiking enthusiasts. But the state also has much to offer in winter. Whether you live here or are visiting for a day trip, if you’re unsure which Christmas market to visit this year, you’ll find inspiration here, selected by the editorial team.
Overview
Historic Christmas Market at Wartburg
The Wartburg in Eisenach is renowned throughout Germany and is a UNESCO World Heritage site, making it a highlight in itself. A visit is especially worthwhile during Advent, as the historic castle transforms into a medieval Christmas village with torches and lights. This market is not your typical one; it evokes times gone by. Craftsmen such as glassblowers and blacksmiths demonstrate their skills between the stalls, while minstrels and storytellers roam the grounds.
There are also booths with traditional specialties and a view of the Thuringian Forest that perfectly complements the setting. Good to know: The ticket price includes not only shuttle buses from city parking lots to the castle but also admission to the museum, Luther’s room, and the grand ballroom.
Open: Dec. 6, 7, 13, 14, 2025
Admission: Adults: 10 euros, Students (ages 7-18) 5 euros, Children up to 6 years free
Erfurt Christmas Market
Another Christmas market that should not be missed is the Erfurt Christmas Market. Its location on Cathedral Square, with views of St. Mary’s Cathedral and the Church of St. Severus, already makes it special. As the largest Christmas market in Thuringia, it attracts many visitors, especially on weekends, so it can get quite crowded. However, the almost fairy-tale atmosphere quickly makes up for it.
Around 200 booths with handicrafts and specialties are spread across the square, allowing you to easily spend an entire afternoon here. There is also a Ferris wheel, a life-size nativity scene, and the free-to-access fairy tale forest. Families can also join in at the eco-bakery to make their own treats.
Open: Nov. 25 to Dec. 22, 2025
Admission: free
Meiningen Christmas Magic
A small but all the more romantic Christmas market is located in southern Thuringia: the Meiningen Christmas Magic. Each year, a cozy Advent scene is created on the market square at Heinrichsbrunnen. In addition to an eight-meter-high Christmas pyramid, there is a wide festival program with performances by kindergarten groups, school classes, and local clubs. Another special feature is “Meiningen on Ice”—the illuminated ice rink where young and old can skate, and it is the largest ice rink in southern Thuringia. Of course, Santa Claus also makes an appearance, so a visit is worthwhile!
Open: Nov. 24 to Dec. 22, 2025
Admission: free
Saalfeld Grotto Advent
In Saalfeld, there are two noteworthy Christmas markets. In the city center around the market square and the adjacent alleys, small booths offer mulled wine, baked goods, decorations, and wool items, as well as a small carousel. However, the real highlight is the Saalfeld Grotto Advent. Here, the Advent season is celebrated not above ground, but underground. On December 6 and 7, visitors can descend into the show caves, where choral music, torches, and the magically shimmering caves await. The musical tour in the show mine lasts about an hour. In the adjacent Fairy Grotto Park, right at the entrance to the caves, the Advent market takes place, where souvenirs, handicrafts, and many fairy tale figures can be discovered.
Open: Dec. 6 & 7, 2025
Admission: for the musical tour: Adults 16 euros, Children (ages 4 to 14) 9 euros