Christmas market in Essen 2024

Travel in comfort by train

Celebrate Christmas in Essen

The Christmas market in Essen has been voted the best Christmas market in Germany and the most sustainable in Europe! What makes this Christmas market so special is its combination with the Essen Light Weeks, which bathe the city in a sea of light, perfect for taking beautiful selfies! Nearly 200 festively decorated stalls offer handcrafted products and delicacies from all over the world. There are also welcoming mulled wine gardens and huts where you can take a break and enjoy yourself.

Your trip to Essen by train

The ICE International high-speed train runs daily from the Netherlands to Germany. ICE International is a fast, comfortable and relaxing way to travel. The train runs 7 times a day from Amsterdam to Duisburg in 2.30 hours. In Duisburg you can take another ICE train to Essen. You can book your train from € 20. Do you live in the south-east of the Netherlands? Then the German Christmas markets are even closer!

When do the Essen Christmas Markets take place?

Most Christmas markets in Essen start around 15 November 2024 (subject to change). The markets are closed on December 24 and Christmas Day.

What else can you do in Essen?

The Zollverein Coal Mine, an important cultural heritage site, offers entertaining exhibitions and events in winter. Villa Hügel, the former home of the Krupp family, offers concerts and other cultural activities in a beautifully decorated setting. In Gruga Park you can take wonderful winter walks and enjoy the beautiful lights. If you like shopping, the Limbecker Platz shopping centre is perfect, with lots of shops and restaurants. This fun mix of activities makes Essen a great place to visit in winter.