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

Highlights
Must-see attractions

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Best Time
Oldest Christmas market magic
Altmarkt
Best Time
Oldest Christmas market magic

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Dresden's historic Altmarkt, famed for Germany's oldest Christmas market and vibrant seasonal fairs.
"Best Christmas market I’ve ever been to! Definitely one of my favorite in Europe!!"
🎯 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.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

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

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

Architectural Surroundings
Admire the historic buildings framing the square, including the Frauenkirche and New Town Hall.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything for Altmarkt
Embrace the Market Atmosphere
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 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.
🛍️ Shop Local Crafts
Discover specially decorated stands with unique merchandise and local crafts.
🎶 Festive Entertainment
Enjoy children's singing and puppet shows during the Christmas market.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 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.
🛍️ Shop Local Crafts
Discover specially decorated stands with unique merchandise and local crafts.
🎶 Festive Entertainment
Enjoy children's singing and puppet shows during the Christmas market.
🍽️ Seasonal Food Stalls
Plenty of food and drink stalls, especially during autumn and Christmas markets.
🚶♀️ Avoid Peak Crowds
Visit on weekdays or mornings to avoid the busiest times, especially before Christmas.
What Travellers Say
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
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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.
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.
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.
🎫 🎫 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.
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.
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.
The Altmarkt Christmas market, often called Striezelmarkt, is Germany's oldest and typically begins in late November and runs until Christmas Eve each year.
🍽️ 🛍️ 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.
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.
Popular treats include mulled wine (Glühwein), gingerbread (Lebkuchen), sausages, and various baked goods. Many stalls offer traditional German Christmas market fare.
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.
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.
📸 📸 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.
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.
For a magical ambiance, visit during the evening when the market lights are on. For architectural shots without crowds, early morning is ideal.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
🛍️ Shoppers & Foodies
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Historic Altmarkt Christmas Market
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. 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.
Beyond the Christmas Season: Altmarkt's Year-Round Appeal
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. 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.
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