Düsseldorf Christmas markets are some of the most beautiful in the world. There are seven markets spread throughout the city centre, each with its own distinct theme. Imagine wandering amidst the festive timber huts where stall holders serve mugs of steaming mulled wine and bags of toasted almonds. The stalls overflow with tempting shiny Christmas baubles, wooden carvings and candles. Suddenly the cold, dark winter is magical and alive with warmth. What better way to re-kindle the spirit of Christmas?
Düsseldorf's Christmas markets are the perfect place to buy original hand-crafted Christmas gifts and to enjoy the festive atmosphere. There are over 200 vendors throughout the city selling toys, decorations and seasonal treats like chestnuts, gingerbread and delicious 'Dampfnudeln' (sweet steamed buns). Read on to find out more about each of the markets.
Curious about this festive season in other German cities? Check out the finest Christmas markets in Germany for more inspiration!
Marktplatz
Start your exploration of Düsseldorf Christmas markets at Christmas HQ A.K.A. the Marktplatz of the Altstadt (Old Town). The huts here are inspired by the Renaissance architecture of the Rathaus (City Hall). You'll find artisan candle-makers, wood-turners and glassblowers selling their perfectly turned out wares. Kids and the young at heart will love a ride on the carousel which despite being almost 100 years old has been restored to perfect working order.
Flinger Strasse
Despite being in the heart of the Altstadt with huts styled to look like burgher houses, Flinger Strasse's Christmas market adds a modern twist to the traditional format. In amongst the usual festive treats you'll find boutique local brands and young fashion trends. The mulled wine pyramid set up opposite the Carsch-Haus department store is a great place to visit for a winter warmer or as a landmark to meet friends.
Heinrich-Heine-Platz
If you like Advent to be ethereal, magical and angelic then the Heinrich-Heine-Platz will be your favourite market. The stunning sandstone façade of high-class department store Carsch-Haus sets the colour scheme for this 'Engelchenmarkt' (Angel Market). The huts here are inspired by the square's Art Nouveau music pavilion and are adorned with stunning floral images and angels created from wrought iron.
Stadtbruckchen
Next wander into the inner courtyard of Wilhelm-Marx-Haus and move from an angelic glow to the cold white light of a thousand crystals and twinkling stars. The 'Sternchenmarkt' (Little Star Market) is filled with snow covered huts selling food, warm wine and everything from jewellery to home furnishings.
Schadowplatz
In 2013, the Schadowplatz unveiled a new theme – 'the snow hut village'. Pristine white wooden huts shimmer with snow crystals and create a real Scandinavian feel. The market is set out in front of the newly-opened Ko-Bogen retail and office centre - a six-storey development that blends modern design with natural green spaces. The market also connects with modern design aesthetics and the goods on sale range from modern textiles to carvings and traditional foods like 'Reibekuchen' (potato fritters) and 'Poffertjes' (pancake puffs).
Gustaf-Grundgens-Platz
The final Christmas market goes back to tradition with huts like tiny Swiss Chalets, an aesthetic contrast to the sleek modern façade of the Düsseldorf Schauspielhaus and the Dreischeibenhaus. However, the main attraction is the 450 meter-squared ice rink. Hire a pair of skates and zip around on the ice on Corneliusplatz before enjoying the Schlussel-Huttenzauber where you can enjoy a meal in a typical Alpine atmosphere. There is also a Kids' activity tent where a daily puppet show will entertain them.
After spending time at Düsseldorf Christmas markets you'll want to warm up at a stylish downtown hotel. The Radisson Blu Scandinavia Hotel, Düsseldorf is close to the old town where all the markets are located and offers guests a warm reception with a cosy fireplace in the lobby bar and lounge.
