Christmas Market on Römerberg

Frankfurt’s Frankfurt Christmas Market on Römerberg is one of the oldest Christmas markets in Germany, first documented in 1393 and still a highlight of Frankfurt tourism and Frankfurt sightseeing. From late November to 22 December, the medieval square and surrounding lanes fill with around 200 wooden chalets selling glühwein, regional crafts, Erzgebirge nutcrackers, painted ornaments, and festive food, drawing nearly three million visitors each year. The centrepiece is a 30 metre Christmas tree in front of the Römer, traditionally a Norway spruce brought from the Black Forest and lit with thousands of warm white lights. Stalls spread across Römerberg, Paulsplatz, and the Mainkai riverbank, offering bratwurst, Frankfurter sausages, roasted almonds, gingerbread, and mulled wine served in souvenir mugs, making it one of the most festive things to do in Frankfurt. Weekday afternoons are best for a relaxed visit, while evenings and weekends get extremely crowded. Brass bands perform carols from the Römer balcony in the evening, and a children’s market with rides is set up on Paulsplatz. A smaller riverside market along the Mainkai offers scenic night views across to Sachsenhausen. Temperatures range from 2 to 7°C in the afternoon and drop near freezing at night, so dressing warmly is essential. The market runs daily from 10 AM to 9 PM, with slightly later starts on Sundays, and is a seasonal highlight for any Frankfurt trip.