Trier Christmas Market Dates
Friday, November 22, 2024 – Sunday, December 22, 2024 [closed on Sunday, November 24 – Germany’s ‘Sunday of the Dead’]
- Monday through Thursday 10:30am – 8:00pm
- Friday and Saturday 10:30am – 9:30 pm
- Sunday 11:00 am – 8:00 pm
Trier Christmas Market Location
The Medieval main square, and in front of the Trier Cathedral is where you’ll find it all!
“The Most Romantic Christmas Market in the World”
Are you looking for a Christmas market experience with all the sparkle, history, and full-on charm only Germany can provide? Want to avoid nightmare crowds, expensive hotels, and throngs of tourists? Shhhhh. Don’t tell anyone, but I’m about to let you in on one of Germany’s best-kept Christmas secrets – the ancient city of Trier [Pronounced TREE-er]. I’d been to Trier several times in the spring and summer, and kept thinking, “I bet they have a fantastic Christmas market!” and I’ve never been so happy to be right!
Apparently, I’m not the only one who thinks so! Several online tourism platforms have rated Trier as a top Christmas market, and one even said it’s “the most romantic Christmas market in the world.” I really can’t argue with that, and here’s why!
History of Trier (and why it makes for the ultimate Christmas market experience!)
Trier is Germany’s oldest city, and believe it or not, it was once the Western capital of the Roman Empire! In 16 BC Augusta Treverorum was founded by the Romans, and for centuries, it thrived as a major Roman metropolis. Grand structures like the Porta Nigra (the only surviving Roman gate to the city), the Imperial Baths, the amphitheater, and the Aula Palatina, a Roman basilica built between 300-310AD, still exist to this day.
As the Roman Empire crumbled, Trier transitioned into a major center of Christianity north of the Alps. Its absolutely stunning cathedral (Trier Dom), and the neighboring Frauenkirche are absolute must-sees. In the Middle Ages, the Archbishop-Elector of Trier wielded immense power as one of the seven Electors of the Holy Roman Empire, and ruled over vast territories of land. The main square of Trier is full of stunning Medieval architecture, beautiful timbered buildings, and envelopes you in a complete fairytale vibe.
All of Trier’s incredible 2000 years of history, plus its stunning monuments provide a backdrop that makes the Trier Christmas market experience magical and unique!
Trier is located in the Western region of the German state of Rhineland-Palatinate near the border with Luxembourg, and France. It’s location on the romantic Moselle River is not really close to any major German tourist destination which is why it remains under the radar for so many travelers.
A Feast for the Senses
Beyond the over-the-top wow factor of the actual city of Trier as your backdrop, you have to check out the stunning antique carousel, the booths with little mechanical people and creatures in the eaves, and their gorgeous spinning Christmas pyramid.
The lights are beautiful too, simple and white, but glittering like stars and snowballs overhead.
Food and Drink
Traditional Fare and Sweet Treats
Trier does not fall short in the food and drink department! In addition to scrumptious brats and spaetzle, seek out the huge sizzling potato pancakes and my favorite, the amazing dampfnudel! Picture a big slightly sweet sticky puffy dumpling freshly made, filled with vanilla custard and drizzled with some kind of amazing warm glaze that I’m still dreaming about. I inhaled it so fast I forgot to take a picture!
Local Libations!
And of course, the glühwein (hot mulled wine in white or red) is a must, as is the eierliquorpunsch with whipped cream (think warm eggnog only better)! But it doesn’t stop there! This was my first time trying Feuerzangenbowle! The name translates to “fire tongs punch” and holy wow! It is a traditional German warm alcoholic drink, and the preparation is half the fun!
Originally a pair of tongs was used to prepare it, but now it’s more common to see a metal grate placed on top of the bowl. On top of this is placed a 9 oz. loaf of sugar. The sugar is then soaked with high-octane rum and ignited! The flame then melts and caramelizes the sugar which drips into the bowl of spiced wine. After the caramel has all dripped into the wine, the punch is served in special mugs.
Feuerzangenbowle is as decadent and delicious as it sounds, and it will set you back a few extra Euros from the regular glühwein, but it’s totally worth it to have this unique German Christmas experience!
Shopping Treasures at Trier Christmas Market
All German Christmas markets have their share of really cool things to buy from the many and varied market stalls that line the cobbled walkways. But Trier in particular seems to have more than the usual amount of gorgeous handmade products including candles, crafts, home decor, jewelry, and really beautiful knitwear. I bought several Christmas gifts here, and also replaced a lost wallet with a beautiful yet inexpensive one from a leather goods stall that was just incredible.
You’ll also find tons of adorable wooden and glass Christmas ornaments, illuminated paper stars, and “smokers.” These are little ceramic figures in the shape of a wood stove, or sometimes a person smoking a pipe. You put a little pellet inside and they puff smoke!
Also, be sure to check out the gift store near the Porta Nigra and the Museum Simeonsift. They have lots of great Trier souvenirs, and a host of amusing Karl Marx-themed gifts as well. Marx was born in Trier and his house is now a museum you can visit.
Entertainment
The Trier Christmas market is introducing some new activities like workshops where families can learn traditional German Christmas carols, and puppet shows from groups that will also teach adults and kids the art of puppetry!
You can check here for the latest events added to the calendar!
The Mulled Wine Queen!
Trier is in the heart of German wine country, and it shows! At the Trier Christmas market, if you’re lucky, you’ll get to see the reigning German Mulled Wine Queen make an appearance! She usually resides between the Cathedral and the Main Market in the Medieval Town Square. She’ll be there until December 22, promoting genuine vintner mulled wine from the Moselle region.
Trier Christmas Market Pro-Tips
🌞🌛 Timing
Like all Christmas markets, the day vs. night vibe is very different. Daytime is for fewer crowds, checking out the market stalls, soaking in the history and enjoying the architecture, and grabbing lunch while you explore all the booths. It’s also a little warmer.
As day turns to night, a winter chill sets in, the twinkling lights come on, and the whole market transforms into a glittering dreamland. Mittens and hot glüwein only add to the festivity. You won’t want to miss the sea of twinkling lights, the illuminated Christmas pyramid, and the general merriment that starts when the mulled wine and Feuerzangenbowle begin to flow!
💵 Cash
Definitely bring cash, since many booths are cash only. Understand the exchange rate so you’ll know what you’re spending and how much to bring. Usually the Euro is worth slightly more than the dollar. Just Google “Dollar to Euro conversion” and today’s exchange rate will pop up for you. You’ll find most things at the market to be very reasonably priced.
🧤What to wear
Hats, mittens or gloves, a warm coat, and a scarf will serve you well, especially in the evening. If you do forget something, it will be a good excuse to pick up a fabulous hand-knit accesory from one of the stalls!
Also, smartwool socks, and comfortable warm shoes or walking boots are a must! If you’re wearing sneakers, make sure they aren’t the ventilated kind.
Check out this link for current weather conditions in Trier. Know what to expect before you plan your time at the market.
If you do need to warm up, the cathedral is a great spot to duck inside.
☕ Mug protocol
Glühwein, Feuerzangenbowle, Eierliquor (like eggnog only better) and Kinderpunsch (non-alcoholic) will all come in a ceramic mug and the cost of the mug (usually a couple dollars) will be included in your charge. If you want to return the mug when you’re done, you’ll be refunded the cost that you paid. Or you can keep the mug as a souvenir if you like! Each market has a different mug each year.
I have an ever growing collection of market mugs, and every time I use one it brings a smile and all the memories come flooding back. Guaranteed mood elevator!
Why Trier Christmas Market?
Trier is definitely one of my favorite markets for so many reasons. The city itself is a winner, regardless of the season, but something about Christmas makes it even more magnificent.
👧 Many people in Trier speak English really well! You’ll find that especially younger people who have taken English in school as part of their curriculum are very proficient. Learning hello [Hallo! Guten tag! Guten abend!], and thank you [Danke! Danke schön! Vielen dank!] in German is appreciated, and most people will continue in English as soon as they figure out that it is your primary language.
🅿️ The parking is fairly easy with many garages, and the public transport drops you off within easy walking distance of the market. And of course there are many hotel options right in the middle of the action.
🎄 There’s a nice bustling feel, but without the crushing crowds in some of the larger markets, so weekend visits are possible without getting smushed.
🛍 There are lots of food options at the Trier Christmas market, and great drink options to boot, with a large number of unique and beautiful things to buy. And the market celebrates all that is uniquely Trier from antiquity to its current wine city status.
🐾 The Trier Christmas market is dog-friendly! Just be sure your little buddy is on a leash and behaves well around people and activity. No, my dog does not qualify to go to Christmas markets!
Nearby Sights to Explore
All these sights are within walking distance of the Trier Christmas market, and are definitely worth your time to visit.
The Black Gate [Porta Nigra]
You can’t miss this one! It’s the landmark most associated with Trier and right at the end of the market on one side. You can also go up inside the gate, and wander the stone passageways and look down over the market.
Trier Cathedral of St. Peter [Trier Dom]
Do not miss this one! Again, you won’t miss it because it’s right next to the market. It is astounding from both the outside and the inside. If you are there during the day, also check out the small but impressive cathedral treasury.
Church of Our Lady [Frauenkirche]
This is the cathedrals neighbor, attached by a little passageway, or accessible from the outside. The stained glass is stunning! Don’t miss it!
The Roman Baths [Kaiserthermen]
The Roman baths are absolutely fascinating! It’s about a 10 minute walk from the market, and a really unique and amazing spot to wander. Some of it is underground, and there are educational plaques and an information building at the entrance.
Rheinisches Landesmuseum [The State Museum of Rhineland-Palatinate]
If you are a museum person, or if you are just wondering where all the artifacts went from this former capital of the Roman empire, this is your answer! Allow a couple hours for the whole museum, or a little over an hour for the Roman section and you won’t be disappointed. Here you’ll find the largest collection of Roman mosaics north of the Alps and so much more!
Stadtmuseum Simeonsift [The City Museum]
This museum is located right by the Black Gate. The gift shop is practically right on the market. This is the city museum and is a little quirky and eccentric but also fascinating, with an impression collection of ivory netsukes, medieval statuary, a World War II display about the Jewish residents of Trier (sadly only in German), some interesting mid-century displays, and some very well preserved uniforms and dresses from the 18th and 19th centuries.
Check out my post on Trier, which has details on all these amazing places, including a couple extra sites and food recommendations, plus some more history of this remarkable city!
Getting to Trier
For details on getting to the Trier Christmas market (or anywhere) this is a great website that allows you to plug in origin and destination and check out this website which gives you all the ways to get to Trier from wherever you are!
🚉 Trier By Train
It’s only a 10 minute walk from the train station to the center of the Christmas Market.
- From Frankfurt Main Station: 3 hours 2 minutes
- From Strasbourg, France: 2 hours 45 minutes
- From Cologne: 2 hours 25 minutes
- From Kaiserslautern: 1 hour 56 minutes
🚗 Trier By Car
If you are driving, there are many parking places near the market. The map shows the main market area as the dotted line between the red pin and the white circle.
- From Frankfurt: 2 hours
- From Strasbourg: 2 hours 10 minutes
- From Cologne: 1 hour 44 minutes
- From Kaiserslautern: 1 hour 6 minutes
🚌 Trier By Bus
You’ll want to get off at the Trier Hauptbahnhof bus stop (Trier main train station) which is a 10 minute walk to the market.
- From Frankfurt: 2 hours 27 minutes
- From Strasbourg, France: 3 hours 15 minutes
- From Cologne: 3 hours 30 minutes
- From Kaiserslautern: 1 hour 30 minutes
✈️ Closest Airports to Trier
Luxembourg airport is closest, but Frankfurt Airport and Cologne Airport are also close with easy access to Trier.
You can also find directions provided by the Trier Christmas market itself.
I hope you get the opportunity to experience the Trier Christmas market for yourself, and enjoy all the city and region has to offer!
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