This exquisite city is, without question, one of the most elegant and underrated in Europe - and the festive season only makes it even more picturesque. The snow-capped Alps can be seen on the horizon as the festive lights of the city glow below. A selection of 20 different Christmas Markets offer everything from the grand to the intimate, and there is even a mediaeval market.

Look out for vendors selling traditional German crafts, such as Weihnachtspyramide (candle-driven Christmas carousels) and Strohsterne Christmas tree decorations. Each market offers a programme of events which can be enjoyed while sipping a hot glühwein.

Below we have chosen a selection of our favourite Christmas markets in Munich to inspire your next trip.

Christkindl Marienplatz

Munich’s largest and oldest Christmas market is located in the city’s central Marienplatz. This extravagant market stands against the romantic backdrop of the Neues Rathaus (town hall), a spectacular Gothic building that becomes warmly illuminated against the dark winter sky. It is Munich’s largest, and busiest Christmas market, with clusters of over 130 stalls offering a wide selection of traditional crafts and delicious food and drink. A full event programme runs throughout the duration of the Christmas market, including daily musical performances from the town hall’s balcony and performances under the Christmas tree.

Weihnachtsmarkt at Kaiserhof of the Residenz

Located only seven minutes’ walk from Marienplatz, the quieter Weihnachtsmarkt at Kaiserhof of the Residenz is ideal for those looking for a Christmas market with an intimate atmosphere. This cosy market is enclosed in the largest courtyard of Munich’s city palace, the Residenz. Admire the market’s animatronic decorations and a dazzling 30-foot Christmas pyramid. Just outside the market on Odeonsplatz is one of our favourite restaurants in the city, the Pfälzer Residenz Weinstube, which specialises in regional wines (a welcome change from Bavarian beers).

Wittlesbacher Platz

A Christmas market with a mediaeval twist- the Wittelsbacher Platz market offers a unique insight into the festive traditions of Munich’s past. Upholding an impressive attention to detail, market vendors are dressed in full period clothing, selling unusual wares behind mediaeval wooden stalls. Feel transported through time as you sip hot glühwein from a chalice...