Explore Regensburg’s Best Christmas Markets: Where to Go & What to Eat
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There’s something truly magical about the Regensburg Christmas Markets. Nestled in a beautifully preserved UNESCO World Heritage city, these markets blend festive cheer with medieval charm in a way few places can match.
From sipping spiced mulled wine beneath a glowing Gothic cathedral to browsing handmade gifts at the artisan stalls of the Lucrezia Market, Regensburg offers a cozy, authentic German Christmas experience.
I first visited Regensburg during my Christmas market train trip through Germany—and it quickly became one of my favorite stops. The city is compact enough to explore in a day or two, yet offers four distinctly different markets, including the fairy-tale-like Romantic Christmas Market at Thurn and Taxis Castle.
Whether you’re chasing snow-dusted photo ops or just a really good bratwurst, this guide will help you make the most of the holiday season in Regensburg.
When Are the Regensburg Christmas Markets Open?
The Regensburg Christmas Markets typically run from late November through December 23 each year, bringing festive cheer to the city’s charming old town and castle grounds. While exact dates can vary slightly year to year, you can expect all four markets to be in full swing during Advent.
Here’s what to know about opening hours:
- Regensburger Christkindlmarkt (Neupfarrplatz): Usually open daily from late morning until 8 or 9 PM, with extended hours on weekends.
- Lucrezia Market: A more artisan-focused market typically open from mid-morning to 8 PM, and a little later on Fridays and Saturdays.
- Katharinenspital Market: Smaller and more local, this one opens in the late afternoon on weekdays and earlier on weekends—perfect for an evening Glühwein!
- Romantic Christmas Market (Thurn & Taxis Castle): The most atmospheric of them all, open afternoons into the late evening—note that this market does charge an entrance fee, with cheaper rates on weekdays.
🕯️ Pro Tip: Before you go, double-check this year’s official opening dates and times on the Regensburg Tourism Website.
How to Get to Regensburg
Getting to Regensburg for the Christmas markets is easy—whether you’re arriving by air, train, or even river cruise!
By Air
The nearest airports are Munich (MUC) and Nuremberg (NUE). From Munich, Regensburg is just a 1.5-hour train ride, and from Nuremberg, it’s even quicker—about an hour. You can often catch a direct train from the Munich airport itself, making the journey smooth and simple.
By Train
Regensburg is well-connected by Germany’s efficient rail system. You can book tickets and check schedules on bahn.de, the official German railway website. Booking 3+ days in advance often means discounted fares!
Planning a Bavarian Christmas Market Trip?
Pair Regensburg with other magical markets nearby. Check out my guides to the Nuremberg Christmas Market and Rothenburg ob der Tauber Christmas Market for a festive Bavarian holiday itinerary!
Where to Stay in Regensburg at Christmas
One of the best ways to truly experience the magic of the Regensburg Christmas markets is to stay overnight. Once the day-trippers head out, the cobbled streets quiet down, the festive lights glow even brighter, and the atmosphere becomes pure winter romance. Whether you’re traveling solo, as a couple, or with friends, spending the night lets you soak in the full charm of this UNESCO-listed city during the Christmas season.
Budget – Jugendherberge Regensburg or Hostel am Ostentor
Both of these affordable options offer a great base for your festive adventures. Hostel am Ostentor is just outside the city gate and a 5-minute walk to the Old Town, with a cozy vibe and budget-friendly private or shared rooms. Jugendherberge Regensburg is set in a historic building by the Danube, with clean dorms, included breakfast, and a 15-minute walk to the markets.
Mid-Range – Hotel am Peterstor
Centrally located and full of personality, this charming hotel offers themed rooms with Regensburg murals and a delicious breakfast spread—ideal for a cozy, mid-range stay near all the action.
Luxury – Bohemian Hotel or Eurostars Park Hotel Maximilian
For a splurge, the Bohemian Hotel offers boutique charm in a historic 12th-century building with individually styled rooms, while the Eurostars Maximilian delivers elegant luxury in a Neo-Rococo setting—perfect for a festive getaway.
Book Your Stay Early – Christmas is Peak Season! Hotels in Regensburg fill up fast in November and December. Don’t miss out on your top pick—check availability and book your stay now.
Regensburg Christmas Markets Map
To make your visit extra easy, I recommend saving a Google Map with all the Regensburg Christmas market locations pinned. That way, you can plan your route and make sure you don’t miss any of the festive magic.
Here are the four main locations you’ll want to mark:
- Neupfarrplatz – This is where you’ll find the main Regensburg Christkindlmarkt, with its classic stalls, carousel, and central Christmas tree.
- Thurn & Taxis Castle – Home to the Romantic Christmas Market, this castle courtyard transforms into a glowing fairytale scene each evening (note: entry fee required).
- Haidplatz & Kohlenmarkt – These two adjacent squares host the Lucrezia Market, a haven for handmade artisan gifts and live music.
- Spitalgarten (Katharinenspital Market) – Just across the Stone Bridge, this cozy riverside beer garden becomes a laid-back local market in winter, serving fiery feuerzangenbowle and artisanal spirits.
The 4 Regensburg Christmas Markets You Must Visit
Regensburg has a total of 4 Christmas Markets, all within a 20-minute walk radius.
Each market is different and has something special to offer, so there really is no excuse not to visit all of them!
Regensburger Christkindlmarkt (Regensburg Christmas Market)
The main Regensburg Christmas market is located on Neupfarrplatz, overlooked by the Neupfarrkirche (church). It’s a pretty typical German Christmas market, with plenty of food and gift stalls to browse.
If you have kids, then this is a good first stop as there’s a little merry-go-round. There are also several artisans who demonstrate their craft at their stalls (the glass blower right next to the merry-go-round was my favorite), which is fun for all ages.
Be sure to sample at least one of the 40 different kinds of glühwein on offer here! This is also where you’ll get a classic Regensburg Christmas market mug, if you’re planning to collect one (more on that later).
Romantic Christmas Market (Thurn & Taxis Christmas Market)
If you’ve been dreaming of a Christmas market beside a castle, then the Romantic Christmas Market in Regensburg is the one for you. Located in the courtyard of the Thurn and Taxis Castle in Regensburg, this is definitely the most magical Christmas market in Regensburg!
Lit up to the nines with plenty of stalls lining the courtyard, this is a great place to spend the evening.
There’s also a special “arts and crafts village” in front of the east and south wing of the castle that’s a great place to shop for gifts. And if you have kids, be sure to check out the “Kinderzauberwald” (Kid’s Magic Forest) where there are plenty of magical rides .
If you’re a night owl, then stick around for the “Hüttengaudi” at the end of the day when the market closes its doors. The Romantic Christmas market website describes it as a “aprés-ski atmosphere”, but I wouldn’t know as I passed out at like 9:30 pm the night I visited.
Romantic Christmas Market Entrance Fees
The Romantic Christmas Market is the only one of the Regensburg Christmas markets which charges an entrance fee. While annoying, I still think it’s totally worth the price!
If you’re looking to save a bit of money, then try going on a weekday or in the evening, as ticket prices rise on the weekends. Also, for some reason, Monday is extra cheap, so if you can plan to be there on a Monday go for it!
I pretty much lucked out and happened to be in Regensburg on a Monday, so got the cheap ticket price and was pretty happy with myself.
See the full list of prices here.
Lucrezia Market
Lucrezia Market is by far the best market to go to if you’re on the hunt for unique gifts or souvenirs, as its focus is on handmade and artisan stalls. There’s a wealth of special, unique goods for sale in the market. And, of course, a few spots for Glühwein as well!
In addition to the stalls, there’s a cute little advent calendar and a packed program of music events, etc. You can check what’s on while you’re in Regensburg here.
The market is located across two different squares–Kohlenmarkt and Haidplatz–so be sure that you stop by both of them!
Katharinenspital Market
Finally, the smallest and coziest market in Regensburg! Located just across the Old Stone Bridge on the opposite side as the old town, it’s just a short walk from the other markets but feels like a different world as most tourists don’t make it here!
This was probably my favorite market out of all of the Regensburg Christmas markets for this very reason.
There aren’t that many food or souvenir stalls, but this is absolutely the market to head to if you want to get your drink on. Not only is it located in a beer garden, but there are loads of different stalls selling not just glühwein, but feuerzangenbowle (glühwein but with a sugar cube set on top that is then SET ON FIRE), and artisanal spirits and liqueurs as well.
Oh, and check out this adorable little wooden merry-go-round!
What to Eat and Drink at Regensburg Christmas Markets
Glühwein
Anyone who’s spent any time researching German Christmas markets has heard of Glühwein before, but that doesn’t make it any less worth mentioning. This mulled wine is the perfect drink to sip on as you browse the market stalls.
One thing to note about Glühwein is that it comes in a special mug–Germany was way ahead on the no plastic waste trend! You’ll need to pay a pfand, or deposit, for the mug (usually a few euros) which you’ll get back when you return the mug.
Alternatively, you can keep it. Each mug is unique to the market that it’s from, and at only a few euros a pop they make for great cheap souvenirs!
Feuerzangenbowle
Feuerzangenbowle is basically Glühwein but on steroids. How, you ask?
Well, you take your mulled wine and then you set a sugarloaf soaked in rum on top of it and LIGHT IT ON FIRE.
If you want to get lit quick, this is the way to do it.
You’ll find Feuerzangebowle at all of the Regensburg Christmas markets, but I highly suggest trying it at the Katherinenspital market!
Gebrannte Mandeln
Ever since the first time my grandma handed me a handful of gebrannte Mandeln (candied almonds) when I was a child, I have been straight up obsessed.
Cooked in sugar, they are crunchy, sweet, and a little bit salty, and honestly you can’t get much better than that.
You’ll find gebrannte Mandeln at Christmas markets all over Germany.
Wurst (at the Historische Wurstküche)
Wurst, or sausages, are another staple at German Christmas Markets, but it Regensburg I actually suggest straying away from the markets for a second to grab a wurst at the Historische Wurstküche (Historic Sausage Kitchen).
Said to be the oldest continuously open restaurant in the world, this little wurst shop by the water is a must-eat while in Regensburg any time of the year.
Don’t bother sitting in, as it’s a little bit expensive and pretty touristy. Instead, grab a sausage to go for just €3 and eat it while sitting on one of the benches by the water!
Käsespätzle
If there’s one thing I miss the most since my recent discovery of my lactose intolerance, it’s Käsespätzle. Not that I get to eat it very often, since I don’t live in Germany, but since I forgot my Lactaid on this trip I was just staring at it wistfully across the market.
Käsespätzle is basically mac and cheese but, like, ten times better. Egg noodles, cheese, and fried onions make up this delectable dish.
It’s not a common staple at Christmas markets, but I did spot some absolutely ah-ma-zing looking Käsespätzle at the Romantic Christmas Market in Regensburg!
Baumstriezel
Perhaps better known as trdlnik or chimney cakes, Baumstriezel are everywhere you look at the Regensburg Christmas markets.
Although originally from Hungary, these sweet dough treats are also popular in Regensburg during the festive season, so go ahead and treat your sweet tooth by grabbing one!
What to Buy at Regensburg Christmas Markets
If you’re on the hunt for great, handmade gifts while on your Christmas market trip, then Regensburg’s Christmas markets are a great place to look. Because they’re a little bit less famous and less commercialized than other markets in Germany, you can usually be sure that you’re getting the genuine thing.
I highly recommend stopping by the Lucrezia Market for the biggest selection of things to buy.
Glühwein Mugs
If you’re looking for simply and affordable souvenirs, then Glühwein mugs are definitely the way to go. Each market has their own mug, so collecting one from each city that you go to can be a great way to remember your trip.
You’ll pay a pfand (deposit) of a few Euros when you buy your Glühwein, so if you want to keep your mug you just have to take it with you!
I’ve also heard of people packaging up the mugs with other little goodies like hot chocolate mix to give as gifts.
Sheepskin & Wool Products
If there’s one thing that Regensburg seems to specialize in, it’s Sheepskin and wool products. There are several different booths throughout the market, such as the one for Walhalla Lamm selling things like sheepskin-lined gloves, yarn, and knit goods. So cozy!
Silver Jewelry
Another thing I noticed during my time in Regensburg is just how many jewelers there were. There are many jewelry shops throughout Regensburg as a whole, and once you get to the markets you’ll see several different stalls selling gorgeous silver jewelry.
To make sure you’ve found the real thing, look to see if the stall has business cards set out and if the vendor can talk to you more about the products. They’ll also definitely be decently expensive–at least €50 for a ring, likely more. Anything less than that and it’s probably not real silver!
You’ll also be pretty much guaranteed to be getting a quality product at the Lucrezia Market, since it’s a specialty artisan’s market.
Beeswax Candles
Another thing you’ll spot all over German Christmas markets are beeswax candles. They’re made and sold by beekeepers and are supposed to be much healthier than regular candles as they purify the air.
You’ll find everything from simple pillar candles to much more decorative ones, so you’re sure to find one that catches your eye.
Final Tips for Visiting Regensburg at Christmas
Planning a trip to Regensburg at Christmas? Here are a few helpful travel tips to make your holiday market experience even more magical:
- Visit midweek if you can – You’ll dodge the weekend crowds and might even score cheaper admission at Thurn & Taxis.
- Layer up – Winter in Bavaria can be chilly, so bring warm layers, a hat, gloves, and waterproof boots (especially if snow is in the forecast).
- Bring cash – Many stalls at the Regensburg Christmas markets are cash-only. Euros in hand = fewer headaches.
- Take a snowy stroll – After your last mug of Glühwein, walk along Regensburg’s medieval city wall or down by the Danube river for a peaceful winter scene.
- Public restrooms – You’ll find facilities at Regensburg Hauptbahnhof (main train station), Neupfarrplatz, and inside the Thurn & Taxis market (with a ticket).
Regensburg Christmas Markets FAQ
Is the Regensburg Christmas Market worth visiting?
Absolutely! Regensburg’s Christmas markets offer a magical blend of medieval charm, festive lights, and local craftsmanship. The Romantic Christmas Market at Thurn & Taxis is especially unique with its castle setting.
When do the Regensburg Christmas Markets start?
They typically open in late November and run through December 23 each year. Specific dates may vary slightly, so it’s best to check the official Regensburg tourism site for current details.
How many Christmas markets are there in Regensburg?
There are four main Christmas markets:
– Regensburger Christkindlmarkt (Main Market)
– Romantic Christmas Market at Thurn & Taxis
– Lucrezia Market
– Katharinenspital Market
Which Regensburg Christmas market is the best?
Each one offers something special! For romantic vibes, go to Thurn & Taxis. For artisan gifts, Lucrezia Market is the top pick. And if you want a quieter, more local feel, Katharinenspital Market is a hidden gem.
Does it cost anything to visit the Regensburg Christmas markets?
Most are free to enter, but the Romantic Christmas Market charges an entry fee. Prices range depending on the day and time.
Can I visit Regensburg’s Christmas markets on a river cruise?
Yes! Regensburg is a popular stop on Danube river cruises, especially those focused on Christmas markets.
Are the Regensburg Christmas markets family-friendly?
Definitely! The main market at Neupfarrplatz has a carousel and live craftspeople, while Thurn & Taxis features a magical kids’ forest with rides.
What should I wear to the Regensburg Christmas markets?
Winter layers, a warm coat, waterproof boots, and gloves are a must. Bavarian winters are cold and often snowy!
Ready to Experience the Magic of Regensburg at Christmas?
From sipping spicy Glühwein beneath the twinkling lights of Neupfarrplatz to exploring artisan stalls tucked into castle courtyards, the Regensburg Christmas Markets are truly something special. With four unique markets all within walking distance—and fewer crowds than the big-name cities—it’s the perfect Bavarian destination for a festive winter getaway.
Whether you’re planning a day trip, a cozy overnight stay, or a full-blown Christmas market itinerary through Germany, don’t skip this UNESCO World Heritage gem.
Planning more stops? Be sure to check out my guides to the Rothenburg ob der Tauber Christmas Market and the Nuremberg Christmas Market for even more holiday magic!
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