Frankfurt Christmas Market

The Frankfurt Christmas Market in 2028

Between the Römerberg and the Hauptwache, the old centre of Frankfurt turns into one of Germany's best known Christmas markets each year. Wooden stalls, string lights, brass music and the scent of roasted almonds make it a popular stop for locals, tourists from Germany and visitors from abroad. This page looks at the 2028 season.

As the date is far in the future, the information below should be read as a planning aid based on earlier years rather than a promise.

Estimated dates and Advent calendar

The entry for 2028 runs from Monday 27 November to Friday 22 December 2028 and is marked as estimated. The organiser has not published official dates. The estimate follows the pattern of recent years in which the market opened on the Monday before the first Sunday of Advent. In 2028 the first Sunday of Advent is 3 December, so the Monday before is 27 November.

Advent Sundays in 2028 are 3, 10, 17 and 24 December. Because Christmas Eve falls on a Sunday, the fourth Advent coincides with it. The estimated last day is a Friday, so it is worth checking whether the market really closes on 22 December or runs on into the weekend.

Atmosphere and traditions

The market spreads over the Römerberg, Paulsplatz and nearby streets, framing the half-timbered Römer buildings and the Paulskirche. The contrast between historic façades and the glass towers of the banking district is part of the Frankfurt charm. The stalls offer handicrafts, candles, ornaments and toys, and the lights are at their best at dusk.

On Advent weekends the crowds are dense, particularly in the evenings. If you prefer calm, choose weekday afternoons.

What to see, do and eat

Look for Bethmännchen, the marzipan treats with almond halves that belong to Frankfurt, as well as Printen, Lebkuchen and roasted chestnuts. Many stalls offer mulled wine, and warm apple wine is the regional twist. Sausages, potato pancakes and waffles fill the savoury and sweet side.

Beyond the market, the cathedral, the Museumsufer along the Main and the shopping street Zeil are all close. A traditional apple wine tavern in Sachsenhausen is a fine place for dinner after the stalls.

Getting there and where to stay

Use the S-Bahn or U-Bahn to Hauptwache or Römer, which are right at the market. Frankfurt Hauptbahnhof receives ICE and regional trains from across the country, and the airport has a quick rail link. Driving into the centre is not recommended, because streets are busy and car parks cost more on peak days.

Hotels are most in demand on the first two Advent weekends. If prices are high, look at Offenbach, Darmstadt, Mainz or Wiesbaden, all reachable by train.

Public holidays and vacation days in 2028

The estimated opening day, Monday 27 November, is an ordinary working day. Christmas Day and Boxing Day, 25 and 26 December 2028, fall on a Monday and a Tuesday, but they come after the estimated closing date of Friday 22 December, so the market cannot be combined with them unless the dates change. No public holiday in Hessen falls inside the window. A weekend visit on one of the Advent Saturdays costs no vacation days, whereas a closing-day visit on Friday 22 December needs one day or a half day.

The market suits couples, families and anyone who wants a short Christmas trip. Check the organiser's website for confirmed dates, dress for the cold and arrive at off-peak times if you dislike crowds.

Because the estimated closing day, 22 December, is a Friday, a late visit on the last evening may be your only chance for a Friday trip, so confirm the final date first. A daylight stroll is good for crafts, while the lights are best after dusk.