Hamburg Christmas market 2026

Experience Christmas in Hamburg by train

From 23 November to 23 December 2026, Hamburg transforms into an atmospheric winter city filled with lights and decorations. In the city centre, you will find several Christmas markets, each with its own character. The best-known market is held at Rathausmarkt, where craft stalls, mulled wine and traditional treats create a warm and festive atmosphere. Nearby, on the Binnenalster, you will find the elegant Jungfernstieg market with its historic Ferris wheel, while the Kiez is home to the unconventional Santa Pauli Christmas market, known for its unique, edgy atmosphere. With NS International, you can travel comfortably by train to enjoy Christmas in Hamburg, with one-way fares starting from € 33.

A Christmas trip to Hamburg

Hamburg is one of Germany’s most beautiful Christmas destinations. The historic city centre and atmospheric canals provide the backdrop for a variety of Christmas markets, including the nostalgic market at Rathausmarkt and the Winterwald on Mönckebergstrasse. The aroma of roasted almonds, gingerbread and baked apples fills the air, while horse-drawn carriages and Christmas parades create a festive atmosphere throughout the city.

When are the Christmas markets in Hamburg?

Hamburg’s three largest Christmas markets—Rathausmarkt, Jungfernstieg and Santa Pauli—all close on 23 December 2026. The Rathausmarkt opens on 23 November; the exact opening dates for Jungfernstieg and Santa Pauli have not yet been announced. Some smaller Christmas markets in the city may remain open after Christmas, but their dates for 2026 are not yet known.

Your train trip to Hamburg

Travel relaxed with ICE to Hamburg. There are several connections per day from the Netherlands, and the train offers a fast and comfortable journey to northern Germany. On board, you can enjoy spacious seats, catering and free Wi-Fi.

Check the international itinerary planner for your best route and departure times.

Going to the Christmas market after 12 December 2026?

Going to a Christmas market? Good news: most Christmas markets open as early as November. You can already buy train tickets to Christmas markets until 12 December.

Do you want to visit a Christmas market after 12 December? Then, in some cases, you will have to be a little patient when buying train tickets. Due to a new schedule from 13 December, we cannot yet sell some tickets. But don't worry. We can let you know when tickets are available on your desired travel day:

Click on your desired travel time in the calendar
Click on 'set alert' and enter your email address
You will receive an email as soon as the tickets are available

This way you will always be the first to know and benefit from the lowest prices.

What else to do at Christmas in Hamburg

Beyond the Christmas markets, Hamburg offers a beautiful winter setting for a weekend getaway. Take a walk along the Inner and Outer Alster lakes, explore the modern HafenCity district with the Elbphilharmonie, or enjoy a winter boat tour through the harbour. In the evening, the city comes alive with festive lights, markets and cosy cafés where you can warm up with a cup of mulled wine.