Rothenburg ob der Tauber Christmas Market Guide: What to Do, Eat & Buy in This Fairytale Town

There’s nowhere in the world quite like the Rothenburg ob der Tauber Christmas Market—and I say that as someone who’s wandered through more festive stalls than I can count. Each year during Advent, this perfectly preserved medieval town in Bavaria transforms into a real-life snow globe: think half-timbered houses strung with fairy lights, the smell of roasted almonds and mulled wine in the air, and vendors selling hand-carved ornaments and glittering glass baubles from cozy wooden huts.

Known as the Reiterlesmarkt, this Christmas market has been spreading cheer for more than 500 years, making it one of the most historic and charming Christmas markets in Germany. Unlike the massive crowds of Nuremberg or Munich, Rothenburg offers a more intimate, storybook setting that feels straight out of a fairytale.

I first visited Rothenburg ob der Tauber on a high school class trip—and I was immediately spellbound. Years later, returning during the Christmas season felt like stepping back in time. Whether you’re sipping glühwein under the town hall tower, picking out the perfect snow-dusted ornament, or just wandering the cobblestone streets beneath a dusting of snow, this place is pure magic.

In this guide, I’ll walk you through everything you need to know about visiting the Rothenburg Christmas Market, from what to eat and buy, to festive things to do in town, where to stay, and essential tips to make the most of your trip.

Planning a bigger Christmas market trip through Germany? Be sure to add stops like Nuremberg’s famous Christkindlesmarkt and the charming Regensburg Christmas Markets to your itinerary.

How to Get to Rothenburg ob der Tauber

Rothenburg ob der Tauber might feel like a storybook village tucked away from the world—but getting there is easier than you’d think.

By Air

The closest airports to Rothenburg are:

• Nuremberg Airport (NUE) – 1.5 hours away by car/train
• Stuttgart Airport (STR) – 2 hours by car/train
• Frankfurt International Airport (FRA) – 2.5 hours by car/train
• Munich Airport (MUC) – 3 hours by train

If you’re flying internationally, Frankfurt and Munich offer the most options and are both easy jumping-off points for a festive Bavarian road trip.

By Train

Rothenburg ob der Tauber is well connected by Germany’s efficient rail network. You’ll likely need to transfer in Steinach (b Rothenburg), a small hub nearby. From there, it’s a short regional train ride straight to Rothenburg’s station—just a 10–15 minute walk from the Old Town gates.

Book your journey via bahn.de, and if you book a few days in advance, you can often snag Saver Fares for less!

If you’re traveling from Nuremberg, it’s just over an hour by train—making it a perfect pairing with the Nuremberg Christmas Market if you’re planning a multi-stop festive adventure.

By Car

Driving to Rothenburg is a dream if you’re exploring Germany’s Romantic Road. The town is just off the A7 Autobahn and is well-signposted from major routes.

Parking tip: You can’t drive inside the Old Town walls, but there are several designated lots just outside the gates. It’s an easy walk from there—and strolling into Rothenburg through the city walls? Pure magic.

By Guided Day Trip

If you’re short on time, guided day trips are available from cities like Munich, Frankfurt, and Nuremberg. While you’ll only get a taste of Rothenburg, it’s a great no-stress way to soak up the charm without worrying about trains or directions.

Where to Stay in Rothenburg ob der Tauber at Christmas

If you can, stay overnight in Rothenburg ob der Tauber—trust me on this one. While most visitors stop by on a day trip, the real magic comes after the tour buses leave. Twinkling lights reflect on cobblestone streets, glühwein warms your hands, and the quiet of the medieval town at night feels like something out of a fairytale.

Whether you’re looking for cozy or splurge-worthy, here are some of the best places to stay in Rothenburg at Christmas:

Budget: Rothenburg Youth Hostel

Mid-range: Gästehaus Goldenes Lamm

Luxury: Hotel Eisenhut

No matter your budget, Rothenburg Christmas hotels fill up quickly, especially on December weekends. If you have your heart set on visiting, book early to secure your spot in this magical winter wonderland!

Rothenburg ob der Tauber Christmas Market Dates & Hours

The Rothenburg ob der Tauber Christmas Market, also known as the Reiterlesmarkt, typically runs from late November through December 23rd each year. It begins on the Friday before the first Advent and ends just before Christmas Eve—making it a perfect destination for a December getaway.

While specific opening hours can vary slightly year to year, these are the typical times:

• Monday to Thursday: 11:00 AM – 7:00 PM
• Friday to Sunday: 11:00 AM – 8:00 PM

Pro tip: Arrive in the late afternoon to enjoy the twinkling lights as dusk sets in, then stick around to soak up the magical nighttime atmosphere with a mug of hot glühwein in hand.

For the most up-to-date hours and events, I recommend checking the official Rothenburg tourism website before your visit.

Map of the Rothenburg ob der Tauber Christmas Market

The Rothenburg ob der Tauber Christmas Market (Reiterlesmarkt) is spread throughout the heart of the old town, making it easy to explore on foot—and even easier to fall under its spell.

The main areas to know are:

• Marktplatz (Market Square): The centerpiece of the market, set in front of the iconic Town Hall (Rathaus). This is where you’ll find the towering Christmas tree, daily performances, and plenty of food stalls.
• Green Market (Grüner Markt): Just a short walk from Marktplatz, this is another hub of activity, often with stalls selling handmade crafts and mulled wine.
• Church Square (Kirchplatz): Located in front of St. Jakob’s Church, this quieter corner is perfect for soaking in the atmosphere or taking a breather.

Best Photo Spots at the Market:

• Town Hall Tower: Climb to the top for panoramic views of the market and rooftops dusted with snow.
• Plönlein: Rothenburg’s most famous fairytale corner—especially magical when lit up at night.
• Käthe Wohlfahrt Storefront: The glowing windows of this legendary Christmas store are worth snapping from every angle.

Tip: Save the map to your Google account to navigate easily while you explore!

What to Expect at the Rothenburg ob der Tauber Christmas Market

Step into a snow globe come to life at the Rothenburg ob der Tauber Christmas Market, also known as the Reiterlesmarkt. Set against the backdrop of half-timbered houses, cobbled streets, and the historic Market Square (Marktplatz), this market is one of Germany’s most enchanting—and it has been for over 500 years.

Dating back to the 15th century, the Reiterlesmarkt is steeped in tradition. Its name comes from the “Reiterle,” a mysterious, ghostly rider of lore who once represented fear of the afterlife—but today appears as a friendly figure to open the market each year. This unique blend of legend and local pride adds a one-of-a-kind charm to the Christmas season.

The stalls wrap around the Marktplatz, Green Market, and Church Square, creating a spacious yet cozy layout that feels far less crowded than other major German Christmas markets. You’ll find twinkling lights strung across rooftops, the scent of mulled wine and roasted almonds in the air, and the sound of brass bands echoing through the medieval streets.

From the festive glow of the town’s Christmas decorations to the historic charm of the buildings surrounding you, everything at the Reiterlesmarkt feels like it was plucked straight from a fairy tale.

Whether you’re here to shop for ornaments, indulge in holiday treats, or simply wander through a winter wonderland, the Rothenburg Christmas Market is a truly magical experience during the Christmas season.

Best Things to Do at the Christmas Market

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Beyond shopping and sipping, the Rothenburg ob der Tauber Christmas Market offers so many festive experiences to fill your visit with wonder. Whether you’re here for the views, the vibes, or the vintage ornaments, here are the best things to do in Rothenburg at Christmas:

Sip Unique Glühwein

Of course, no German Christmas market is complete without glühwein, and Rothenburg takes it up a notch. Try a classic red, a refreshing white glühwein, or my personal favorite—a sweet and tangy quince glühwein you won’t find just anywhere.

Catch a Concert or Brass Band

Live music fills the market square throughout the Christmas season, with brass bands and local choirs performing on the stage at the Green Market. The warm glow of string lights paired with festive tunes makes for the ultimate holiday moment.

Visit Käthe Wohlfahrt and the German Christmas Museum

Don’t miss a visit to the world-famous Käthe Wohlfahrt Christmas store, located right across from the market. Inside, it’s a winter wonderland of ornaments, nutcrackers, and figurines. For even more festive fun, step into the German Christmas Museum upstairs and explore the rich history of holiday traditions.

Climb the Town Hall Tower

For the best views of the twinkling market below, climb the Town Hall Tower. It’s a bit of a squeeze on the way up (those medieval staircases are no joke), but the panorama over the rooftops and market stalls is so worth it—especially if it’s snowing!

Take the Night Watchman Tour

After the market closes, stick around for the iconic Night Watchman Tour. This theatrical evening walk through Rothenburg’s dimly lit streets brings the town’s medieval past to life and adds a layer of charm to your Christmas visit. Tours meet nightly in the Market Square around 8 PM—no reservation needed! Alternatively, you can book a private tour.

Just Wander the Decorated Streets

Sometimes, the best thing to do is nothing at all. Just let yourself get lost among Rothenburg’s winding lanes, all strung with lights and dusted with holiday magic. The farther you wander from the main square, the quieter—and more romantic—it gets.

What to Eat at the Rothenburg Christmas Market

One of the absolute best parts of any German Christmas market is, without a doubt, the food—and Rothenburg Christmas food is no exception. From sweet treats to hearty classics, here’s what you need to try when you’re indulging in the market’s many culinary delights:

Schneeballen

The most iconic Rothenburg snack, Schneeballen (literally “snowballs”) are fist-sized balls of fried shortcrust pastry, dusted in powdered sugar or dipped in chocolate. They’re more photogenic than delicious, if I’m being honest—super crumbly and dry—but they’re a local specialty and still worth trying at least once.

Bratwurst

You can’t go wrong with a classic German bratwurst, grilled to perfection and stuffed into a fluffy Brötchen (roll). Grab one for a quick and satisfying bite as you wander the market—it’s the ultimate comfort food in the winter chill.

Käsespätzle

I’m still dreaming about the käsespätzle I had at the Rothenburg Christmas Market—egg noodles smothered in cheese and topped with crispy onions. It was so good I willingly sacrificed my lactose-intolerant soul for it (zero regrets). You’ll find it at one of the food stalls tucked between the main squares.

Gebrannte Mandeln

The scent of gebrannte Mandeln (candied almonds) floats through the air like a siren call. If you spot a stand selling Weihnachtsmandeln, the Christmas spice version, do yourself a favor and grab a bag (or two). They make great stocking stuffers—if you don’t eat them all first.

Glühwein

Finally, don’t miss the steaming mugs of mulled wine, or glühwein, served from wooden huts around the market. Whether you go for traditional red, white, or the Rothenburg quince variety, it’s the perfect way to warm your hands (and your heart).

Pro tip: the mug deposit (or pfand) is only around €2–€3, and the cute souvenir mugs make for an easy and affordable gift or keepsake.

What to Buy at Rothenburg Christmas Market

Looking for meaningful gifts or just a little something to remember your magical time in Rothenburg? This market is the place to snag cozy, festive finds—many of them handcrafted right here in town. Here are the best things to shop for at the Rothenburg Christmas Market:

Käthe Wolfhart Ornaments

No visit to Rothenburg at Christmas is complete without stepping inside the Käthe Wohlfahrt flagship store—aka the most extra Christmas shop you’ll ever see. With its twinkling lights, floor-to-ceiling Christmas decorations, and even a German Christmas Museum, it’s like walking into a holiday fairy tale.

Inside the store and at their market stall, you’ll find beautiful hand-painted ornaments, intricate wooden pyramids, and nutcrackers galore. These make the perfect souvenirs or gifts for anyone who lives for Christmas cheer.

Glühwein Mugs

Every German Christmas market has its own signature glühwein mug, and Rothenburg’s is especially charming. When you buy your mulled wine, you’ll pay a small mug deposit called a pfand (usually around €2–€3), which you can either get back or keep the mug as a souvenir.

I kept mine—no surprise there. They’re festive, affordable, and light enough to toss in your suitcase.

Medieval Gifts & Quill Pens

Leaning into the town’s medieval roots, you’ll find stalls selling quill pens, scroll-like stationery, and old-fashioned inkwells—unique finds that feel straight out of a historical fantasy novel. There are also wooden toys and hand-carved figurines that reflect Rothenburg’s centuries-old artisan traditions.

Handcrafted Holiday Decor

From delicate glass baubles to hand-painted candle holders, the market is brimming with artisanal Christmas decorations. Many of the vendors are locals, so you can feel good knowing your purchase supports small-town makers.

Final Tips for Visiting the Rothenburg Christmas Market

Before you wander off into the twinkly wonderland that is Rothenburg at Christmas, here are a few helpful travel tips to make your experience even more magical:

Dress for the Chill

Christmas in Germany can get cold, especially in a medieval hilltop town like Rothenburg. Bring plenty of layers, a warm coat, cozy accessories, and waterproof boots with good traction—you’ll thank yourself later when you’re walking the cobblestones in the snow.

Time Your Visit Right

If you can swing it, visit during the week. Weekends bring bigger crowds, which can make the market feel a bit hectic. Midweek mornings are pure magic—quiet, peaceful, and still full of festive charm.

Walk the Town Walls

Yes, it’s chilly—but wrapping up in a scarf and taking a snowy stroll along the town walls is the definition of winter romance. You’ll get gorgeous views of Rothenburg’s rooftops, dusted in snow and glowing with Christmas lights.

Bring Euros

Many stalls at the Rothenburg Christmas Market are cash-only, so be sure to have some euros on hand. ATMs are available near the market square, but they tend to run out of cash during busy times.

Don’t Forget Your Mug

Remember that Glühwein mug deposit? If you loved your mug (I mean… who doesn’t?), keep it as a souvenir. If not, just return it to get your euros back. Either way, you’re winning.

Frequently Asked Questions About the Rothenburg ob der Tauber Christmas Market

Ready to Experience the Magic of Rothenburg at Christmas?

There’s something timeless about Rothenburg ob der Tauber—its cobbled streets, half-timbered houses, and medieval charm make it a joy to visit any time of year. But come December, when twinkling lights wrap the town square and the scent of Glühwein fills the air, it truly transforms into a real-life Christmas card.

Whether you’re sipping white mulled wine under the Rathaus clock tower, shopping for Käthe Wohlfahrt ornaments, or just soaking in the snowy stillness from the top of the Town Hall Tower, the Reiterlesmarkt offers a festive escape that’s equal parts cozy and magical.

If you’re planning a Christmas market trip through Germany, Rothenburg deserves a top spot on your itinerary. It’s a little quieter, a little more enchanting—and a whole lot unforgettable.

Planning your trip? I’m a certified travel advisor and would love to help you build the perfect Germany Christmas market itinerary. Click here to learn more about my custom travel planning services »

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