Altmarkt - people walking on market during daytime
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Altmarkt

4.7
·4k reviews·Dresden, Germany

Dresden's historic Altmarkt, famed for Germany's oldest Christmas market and vibrant seasonal fairs.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Late Nov - Dec

Oldest Christmas market magic

CrowdHigh
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Altmarkt - people walking on market during daytime

Altmarkt

Best Time

Late Nov - Dec

Oldest Christmas market magic

CrowdHigh
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Dresden's historic Altmarkt, famed for Germany's oldest Christmas market and vibrant seasonal fairs.

4.7
(4k reviews)

"Best Christmas market I’ve ever been to! Definitely one of my favorite in Europe!!"

Vertical photo
TIP

🎯 Oldest Christmas Market

Experience Germany's oldest Christmas market! Great decor, food, and shopping.

☕ Collectible Mugs

Each year's Christmas market mug has a unique design, perfect for collectors.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Altmarkt Christmas Market

Altmarkt Christmas Market

Germany's oldest Christmas market, dating back to 1434. Festive stalls, unique mugs, and a magical atmosphere.

Seasonal Fairs

Seasonal Fairs

Experience autumn harvest or other seasonal markets. Enjoy local food, drinks, and crafts in a lively square.

Architectural Surroundings

Architectural Surroundings

Admire the historic buildings framing the square, including the Frauenkirche and New Town Hall.

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Planning Your Visit

Timing is Everything for Altmarkt

Altmarkt is renowned for its vibrant seasonal markets, especially the historic Christmas market. Plan your visit around these events for the full experience. Be prepared for significant crowds during peak market times, particularly closer to holidays.

Embrace the Market Atmosphere

Beyond the famous Christmas market, Altmarkt hosts other seasonal fairs like an autumn harvest festival. These offer a similar festive vibe with food and drink stalls, but with warmer weather and fewer crowds than the winter peak.

Best Times

When
Late Nov - Dec
Why
Oldest Christmas market magic
Crowd
High
When
Sept
Why
Warmer autumn fair vibes
Crowd
Medium
When
Weekday mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, relaxed pace
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

📍location - Dresden ✨ what to do in Dresden: 📍zwinger castle 📍theaterplatz 📍semperoper opera house 📍residenzschloss 📍hofkirch 📍furstenzug 📍altmarkt 📍frauenkirche 📍bruhls terrace 📍grand garden 📍kunsthofpassage 📍pfunds molkerei #germany#travel#dresden
@berlin.with.me
26.4K likes • 213.5K views

🎯 Oldest Christmas Market

Experience Germany's oldest Christmas market! Great decor, food, and shopping. Reddit

☕ Collectible Mugs

Each year's Christmas market mug has a unique design, perfect for collectors. Reddit

Spare Ribs all you can eat in Dresden und das für 19,50€? 🫢 Das findet ihr : Jeden Montag ab 15 Uhr Play off Dresden Altmarkt Galerie #dresden #dresdenfoodguide #dresdenallyoucaneat
@nenasenf
8.1K likes • 172.3K views
590. DRÁŽĎANSKÝ STRIEZELMARKT Drážďany - Weihnachten🎄🎁☘️ Altmarkt se letos koná již po 590 Typickým nápojem je bezpochyby svařák, který si můžete zakoupit v keramickém hrníčku vyráběným speciálně pro Striezelmarket. Hrníček jsem si odnesla domů jako suvenýr a vzpomínku na vánoční Drážďany.🎄🎁 #striezelmarkt #nemecko #drazdanyvanocnitrhy🎄🎇 #pratelstvi #trhy #almark #česká #turism #turista #insta ...
jedlickova_hanka
116 likes • 1.5K views

🛍️ Shop Local Crafts

Discover specially decorated stands with unique merchandise and local crafts. Reddit

🎶 Festive Entertainment

Enjoy children's singing and puppet shows during the Christmas market. Reddit

Am Freitag ist es soweit! 🍂 Der Herbstmarkt eröffnet endlich auf dem Dresdner Altmarkt. 🥹🍁 ⏰12. September (Marktstart): 12 bis 20 Uhr So–Do: 10 bis 19 Uhr Fr–Sa: 10 bis 20 Uhr Freitag, 3. Oktober (Feiertag): 10 bis 20 Uhr #dresden #autumn #markt
sachs.weiter
2.7K likes • 83.7K views

Tips

from all over the internet

🎯 Oldest Christmas Market

Experience Germany's oldest Christmas market! Great decor, food, and shopping. Reddit

☕ Collectible Mugs

Each year's Christmas market mug has a unique design, perfect for collectors. Reddit

🛍️ Shop Local Crafts

Discover specially decorated stands with unique merchandise and local crafts. Reddit

🎶 Festive Entertainment

Enjoy children's singing and puppet shows during the Christmas market. Reddit

🍽️ Seasonal Food Stalls

Plenty of food and drink stalls, especially during autumn and Christmas markets. Reddit

🚶‍♀️ Avoid Peak Crowds

Visit on weekdays or mornings to avoid the busiest times, especially before Christmas. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.7
(4k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Altmarkt is celebrated for its historic Christmas market, the oldest in Germany, offering a magical festive atmosphere with unique stalls and collectible mugs. Visitors also appreciate the seasonal autumn fair and the convenience of the Altmarkt Galerie for shopping and dining. While crowds can be intense during peak times, the overall experience is highly recommended for its charm and tradition.

"The Altmarkt Christmas market is the oldest Christmas market in Germany! The first took place in the year of 1434 and it happened yearly in this same place since!
After visiting some other Christmas markets around Europe I can say this is definitely the best out there! Definitely worth a visit. But beware, it can get very crowded in the days before Christmas."

Vitey

"Best Christmas market I’ve ever been to ! Plenty of vendors all with specially decorated stands. Apparently is the oldest Christmas market that has been running for almost 600 years ! The mug each year has its own special design as well, great for collection. Definitely one of my favorite Christmas market in Europe !!"

Wan-chien Hsiao

"Large open square used to hold markets and other outdoor events. It's famous for the Christmas Market but in September it hosts an autumn/harvest fair which is similar but the weather is warmer and there is no snow! There are plenty of food and drink stalls. Best to go during the day as the autumn fair doesn't stay open too late."

Andrew Long

What People Like

Oldest Christmas market
Festive atmosphere
Unique market stalls

What People Dislike

Very crowded

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Altmarkt is centrally located in Dresden and easily accessible by public transport. Tram lines 1, 2, 3, 4, 7, 8, 9, 11, and 12 stop nearby at 'Altmarkt' or 'Postplatz'. It's also a pleasant walk from Dresden Hauptbahnhof (main train station) or the Elbe riverfront. TikTok

Parking can be challenging in the city center. The Altmarkt Galerie parking garage is a convenient option, though it can get busy. Consider using public transport to avoid parking hassles. TikTok

Yes, Altmarkt is within walking distance of many major Dresden sights like the Frauenkirche, Zwinger Palace, and Semperoper. It's part of a walkable city center. TikTok

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Altmarkt itself is a public square and is free to enter. However, specific events like the Christmas market or seasonal fairs may have associated costs for entry or activities within them. Reddit

As a public square, Altmarkt is always accessible. The hours for markets and events held there vary seasonally. The Christmas market typically runs from late November until Christmas Eve. Reddit

Generally, there is no entry fee to walk around the Altmarkt Christmas market. You only pay for the food, drinks, and goods you purchase from the vendors. Reddit

The Altmarkt Christmas market, often called Striezelmarkt, is Germany's oldest and typically begins in late November and runs until Christmas Eve each year. Reddit

🍽️ 🛍️ Shopping & Dining

The Altmarkt Galerie is a large shopping mall located directly on the square, featuring a variety of stores including Adidas and other fashion retailers. TikTok+1

There are numerous dining options around Altmarkt. During markets, you'll find many food stalls. The Altmarkt Galerie also houses eateries, and nearby streets offer diverse restaurants. Try Hawaiian Poke Bowls at ma'loa or enjoy all-you-can-eat ribs at Play off Dresden on Mondays. TikTok+1

Popular treats include mulled wine (Glühwein), gingerbread (Lebkuchen), sausages, and various baked goods. Many stalls offer traditional German Christmas market fare. Reddit

While traditional market food is often meat-heavy, you can usually find some vegetarian options like potato pancakes (Kartoffelpuffer) or roasted nuts. Vegan choices might be more limited but are becoming more common. TikTok

Absolutely! The Christmas market is known for its unique, handcrafted items, traditional wooden toys, and local crafts. The collectible mugs are also a popular souvenir. Reddit+1

📸 📸 Photography

Capture the festive atmosphere of the Christmas market with its decorated stalls and lights. The surrounding historic architecture, like the Frauenkirche, also makes for great backdrops. TikTok

Yes, it can be challenging to get clear shots during peak hours due to crowds. Try visiting early in the morning or on a weekday for fewer people and better photo opportunities. Reddit

For a magical ambiance, visit during the evening when the market lights are on. For architectural shots without crowds, early morning is ideal. TikTok

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Altmarkt is a fantastic destination for families, especially during its seasonal markets. The Christmas market is particularly enchanting for children, with its festive decorations, twinkling lights, and the chance to see Santa Claus. The children's singing and puppet shows are a big hit and provide delightful entertainment. Reddit During the autumn fair, families can enjoy a more relaxed atmosphere with plenty of space to roam and sample seasonal treats. The Altmarkt Galerie offers a break from the outdoor elements with indoor shops and food courts, making it a versatile spot for families regardless of the weather. TikTok

🛍️ Shoppers & Foodies

For those who love to shop and indulge in local flavors, Altmarkt is a prime spot. The Altmarkt Galerie provides a modern shopping experience with a range of brands, including Adidas. TikTok+1 Beyond the mall, the seasonal markets are a foodie's paradise. From traditional German sausages and gingerbread at the Christmas market to Hawaiian Poke Bowls at ma'loa and all-you-can-eat ribs at Play off Dresden, there's a diverse culinary landscape to explore. TikTok+1 Don't miss the chance to try regional specialties and seasonal drinks unique to each market event.

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Historic Altmarkt Christmas Market

Altmarkt is synonymous with its legendary Christmas market, the Striezelmarkt, which proudly holds the title of Germany's oldest. Dating back to 1434, this market has been a cornerstone of Dresden's festive season for nearly six centuries, held annually in the very same square. Visitors rave about the uniquely decorated stalls and the sheer abundance of vendors offering everything from traditional crafts to seasonal delicacies. The atmosphere is consistently described as magical and festive, making it a must-visit for anyone in Dresden during the holiday season. Reddit+1

Beyond the visual spectacle, the market is a sensory delight. The air is filled with the aroma of roasted almonds, gingerbread, and mulled wine. A key tradition is the purchase of the annual collectible mug, each year featuring a distinct design, which has become a sought-after item for collectors. The market also offers entertainment, including children's singing and puppet shows, adding to its family-friendly appeal. Reddit+1 While the market is undeniably popular and can get very crowded, especially in the days leading up to Christmas, many visitors find the experience well worth navigating the throngs for its historical significance and vibrant charm. Reddit

Beyond the Christmas Season: Altmarkt's Year-Round Appeal

While the Christmas market garners the most attention, Altmarkt is a dynamic public space that hosts events and markets throughout the year. In September, for instance, the square transforms into an autumn harvest fair. This event offers a similar festive spirit with numerous food and drink stalls, as well as local produce and crafts, but benefits from warmer weather and generally fewer crowds than its winter counterpart. Reddit

The Altmarkt Galerie, a modern shopping center integrated into the square, provides year-round retail therapy. It houses a variety of shops, including well-known brands like Adidas, and offers diverse dining options, from quick bites to more substantial meals. TikTok+1 This ensures that even outside of the main market seasons, Altmarkt remains a hub of activity, offering shopping, dining, and a central point for exploring Dresden's historic city center. TikTok

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