WHERE: Heidelberg, Germany
WHEN: November 24 to December 22, 2025

Every year, the Christmas markets (better known in these parts as Christkindlmarkt or Weihnachtsmarkt) attract thousands of visitors from across the country. And from neighboring countries.

Cologne. Dresden. Munich. And, above all, Nuremberg, one of the oldest in Europe, certainly need no introduction. Those seeking a more intimate and characteristic market with a magical atmosphere should not miss a visit to one of the most beautiful towns in Baden-Württemberg: Heidelberg.

Nestled on the banks of the Neckar and dominated by the silhouette of its splendid Castle (or at least what remains of it), Heidelberg hosts beautiful Christmas markets every year.

Scents. Colors. And a thousand sparkling lights that offer a truly unique spectacle. And let’s not forget the beautiful ice rink, one of the most evocative in all of Germany!

Furthermore, Christmas in Heidelberg is… “green.” Only energy-efficient LED lighting is used. No stalls use incandescent bulbs. And as if that weren’t enough, the ice rink has been powered exclusively by green energy since 2017.Christmas in Heidelberg

Photo ©, Daderot

CHRISTMAS IN HEIDELBERG 2025: THE MARKETS

2025 PROGRAM AND OPENING HOURS

Monday, November 24th, at 6:00 PM, Christmas in Heidelberg 2025 officially begins.
The markets are open daily until December 22nd, from 11:00 AM to 9:00 PM. They close at 10:00 PM only on Saturdays.

Bismarckplatz and Marktplatz host numerous stalls where you can purchase beautiful souvenirs and local crafts, as well as numerous culinary delicacies.
Universitätsplatz is a favorite spot for children, thanks in part to the beautiful carousel. And of course, let’s not forget Karlplatz!
The main streets of the historic center also dress up for the holidays with beautiful decorations and stunning lights.

For the little ones, don’t miss Santa’s House on Marktplatz. With a donation of at least €5, you can take a tour inside the house and take a photo and video with Santa Claus. The proceeds will go to support the Heidelberg-Altstadt Lions Club for children in need.

ICE RINK

What would Christmas be without the inevitable ice rink? From November 24, 2025, to January 11, 2026, a charming ice rink (Eisbahn) will be set up on Karlplatz, with the castle ruins as a backdrop.
A truly magical rink, in a fairytale atmosphere.
The rink is open all day.