Düsseldorf at Christmas: Markets, Culture, Cuisine and Festive Experiences Beyond the Stalls
- Jessica Heather
- Dec 20, 2025
- 10 min read
AD | Hosted This blog is in collaboration with Visit Düsseldorf
All opinions expressed in this post are my own.
Visiting Düsseldorf during the Advent season is not simply about wandering between Christmas market stalls with a mug of mulled wine in hand. While the city’s Weihnachtsmärkte are undeniably impressive, what truly sets Düsseldorf apart is the way the entire city transforms into a layered festive destination - one that combines culture, gastronomy, design, and immersive seasonal experiences.
credit: Visit Düsseldorf
We were kindly invited by Visit Düsseldorf to explore the city at Christmas, discover its many markets, experience festive activities beyond the traditional stalls, and demonstrate exactly how valuable the DüsseldorfCard Plus is for navigating the city and the wider region. Over four full days, we experienced Düsseldorf as a connected, creative, and deeply festive city - one that rewards visitors who look beyond the obvious.
Düsseldorf Christmas Markets 2025: A Festive Archipelago Across the City
In 2025, the Düsseldorf Christmas Markets once again transform the city centre into a festive archipelago of seven themed markets. Rather than concentrating activity in a single location, Düsseldorf spreads its Christmas spirit across historic squares, shopping boulevards, riverside promenades, and modern architectural spaces.
With more than 200 decorated wooden stalls, hundreds of Christmas trees, and carefully curated themes, the entire city centre becomes an interconnected winter landscape.
Market-hopping is encouraged, with illuminated walkways guiding visitors from one festive world to the next. Each market has its own distinct character, while remaining within easy walking distance or a short public transport journey - particularly convenient when using the DüsseldorfCard Plus. Alongside the daily rhythm of food stalls and gift shopping, a varied programme of seasonal events brings live music, charitable initiatives, and cultural performances directly into the heart of the markets.
Dates and Opening Hours
The Düsseldorf Christmas Markets take place from Thursday, 20 November to Tuesday, 30 December 2025.
Sunday to Thursday: 11 am – 8 pm
Friday and Saturday: 11 am – 9 pm
Exceptions:
23 November (Dead Sunday): Closed
24 December (Christmas Eve): 11 am to 6 pm
25 December (Christmas Day): Closed
The Seven Themed Markets and Seasonal Events
credit: D-LIVE
Handwerker-Markt (Marktplatz)
Set against the historic Town Hall, the Handwerker-Markt focuses on traditional craftsmanship. Artisans such as glass-blowers and woodcarvers demonstrate their skills, while a life-sized nativity scene reinforces the market’s classic character. It is an ideal location for purchasing handcrafted Christmas gifts.
Altstadt-Markt (Flinger Straße)
Located in the Old Town, this lively market features stalls designed to resemble historic townhouses and is home to Düsseldorf’s iconic mulled wine pyramid. Its central location makes it a natural meeting point and a seamless link between festive stalls and traditional breweries.
Märchen-Markt (Schadowplatz)
The Fairytale Market brings stories to life through more than 15,000 LED lights and silhouettes inspired by the Brothers Grimm. Santa Claus visits every Friday, making this market especially popular with families.
Engelchenmarkt (Heinrich-Heine-Platz)
Recognised for its Art Nouveau style and golden lighting, the Engelchenmarkt offers a calmer and more romantic atmosphere. Angel motifs and refined decorations create a peaceful festive space near the Rhine.
Kö-Bogen-Markt (Gustaf-Gründgens-Platz)
Set against modern architecture, the Kö-Bogen-Markt plays a central role in Düsseldorf’s Advent events calendar. Throughout the season, it hosts live performances and special activities that complement the daily market atmosphere.
On Sunday, 21 December, the market hosts Candle Dipping with Santa Lucia from 12 noon to 6 pm. Organised by Engels Kerzen in cooperation with the Ludwig Fresenius Talent Network at Fresenius University of Applied Sciences, the charity event supports Löwenstern e. V. and invites visitors to participate in a traditional hands-on Christmas activity.
Later in the season, on Friday, 26 December, the Kö-Bogen-Markt welcomes visitors to a Christmas Market Music Night from 5 pm to 7 pm, offering a relaxed and celebratory atmosphere during the days between Christmas and New Year.
New in 2025: The Winter Village on Königsallee
credit: Visit Düsseldorf
Along Königsallee, The Winter Village is an elegant Christmas market that combines tradition and contemporary design in a stylish winter wonderland.
Curated by the Königsallee interest group (IG Kö), the market transforms the area between Corneliusplatz and Girardetbrücke into an atmospheric winter village of white glass containers, cosy huts, and ambient lighting. Brands, manufacturers, and creatives present special products and ideas in modern pop-up formats.
The concept is complemented by a high-quality gastronomic offering that reinterprets regional specialities, blending traditional Christmas flavours with innovative culinary experiences. This new addition balances sophistication, festivity, and accessibility, making it a standout feature of Düsseldorf’s market landscape in 2025.
Located along Düsseldorf’s luxury shopping boulevard, the Winter Village features white glass pavilions and a refined winter aesthetic. At its centre is Kö on Ice, a 1,700-square-metre ice rink that has become one of the city’s most recognisable festive attractions.
Kö on Ice: Ice Skating in the City Centre
credit: Visit Düsseldorf
Located near the Königsallee, Kö on Ice is a seasonal ice rink that welcomes visitors of all abilities. More about atmosphere than technical skill, it adds a playful and social dimension to Düsseldorf’s Advent season. The adjacent two-level Füchschen-Alm provides a warm place to pause and enjoy seasonal food and drink.
Düsseldorf at Christmas is a destination that rewards curiosity. Beyond the markets lies a city offering thoughtful design, exceptional food, sustainable accommodation, cultural depth, and festive experiences that
cater equally to lively exploration and moments of calm.
Guided Tour: With Gingerbread and Punch - Düsseldorf's Christmas Wonderland
We met our guide, Christian, at the Tourist Information (Rheinstrasse 3, 40213 Düsseldorf) and immediately felt the excitement of the Advent season.
As we strolled through Düsseldorf’s Altstadt (Old Town), the streets had been transformed into a stunning sea of lights. The romantically illuminated alleys cast a warm glow over the city, and Christian proved to be an amazing guide, sharing fascinating Christmas stories and bringing the history of Düsseldorf to life with humor and charm.
Along the way, we enjoyed festive hot chocolate and mulled wine (Glühwein), generously provided by Wilmering Events at their popular Glühtürmchen stand. This charming, two-story wooden house at the Kö-Bogen market area, near the ice rink and Breuninger department store, is a highlight of the Christmas market and a perfect spot to warm up while taking in the holiday atmosphere.
Our favorite moment came unexpectedly. While casually wandering through the Weihnachtsmarkt, we looked up and discovered that the roof of a market stall was hosting a full-blown Christmas deer musical. It was the kind of over-the-top, joyful performance that only Germany could pull off -an unforgettable highlight of the evening.
By the end of the tour, we were completely enchanted. The combination of sparkling lights, delicious drinks from Wilmering Events, and Christian’s storytelling made Düsseldorf’s Christmas Wonderland an experience we’ll never forget.
Roncalli’s Weihnachtspromenade (Rhine Embankment)
Stretching along the Rhine, Roncalli’s Weihnachtspromenade offers a nostalgic atmosphere with vintage circus wagons and retro food trucks. Nearby, the Ferris wheel at Burgplatz provides panoramic views across Düsseldorf’s illuminated skyline.
Additional Festive Highlights
For those wishing to explore beyond the city centre, the Benrath Palace Christmas Market offers a quieter, more romantic setting within the grounds of Schloss Benrath. Open on weekends from late November to late December, it provides a local alternative framed by historic architecture.
Travelling from London to Düsseldorf via Cologne
Our journey began at London Stansted Airport, where we boarded a Ryanair flight to Cologne Bonn Airport. Cologne serves as an excellent entry point to the Rhine-Ruhr region, with frequent and affordable flight connections from the UK.
Upon landing, we headed directly to the railway station and activated our DüsseldorfCard Plus. From that moment onwards, travel became effortless. There was no need to purchase individual tickets or navigate unfamiliar transport systems; we simply boarded the next available train and relaxed.
The journey from Cologne to Düsseldorf takes approximately one hour and is fully covered by the DüsseldorfCard Plus. We arrived in Düsseldorf around 11pm and made our way to our hotel in Oberkassel, ready to rest before several festive days ahead.
Why the DüsseldorfCard Plus Is Essential
For anyone planning to explore Düsseldorf - particularly during the busy Christmas season - the DüsseldorfCard Plus is one of the most valuable travel tools available.
Comprehensive Public Transport Access
The card provides unlimited travel on:
All buses, trams, underground trains and suburban rail services
Regional trains including RE, RB and S-Bahn (2nd class)
Transport networks across both the Rhine-Ruhr Transport Association (VRR) and the Rhine-Sieg Transport Association (VRS)
This means visitors are not limited to Düsseldorf alone. Nearby cities, Christmas markets, museums, and cultural sites throughout the Rhine and Ruhr regions are all easily accessible without additional costs.
Cultural and Leisure Benefits
In addition to transport, the DüsseldorfCard Plus includes:
Free or discounted entry to museums and cultural attractions
Discounts on sightseeing tours and leisure activities
Special offers at selected restaurants, shops, and hotels
The card simplifies budgeting, saves time, and encourages exploration beyond the city centre. During a festive break where travel is frequent and spontaneous, it proves invaluable.
Christmas Special
From 20 November to 30 December, a special highlight awaits you with the DüsseldorfCard: you receive discounts at selected Christmas market stands in Düsseldorf. Participating stands are marked accordingly at
the Christmas market.
Take a look at Düsseldorf Card for more free local transport and discounts.
Staying at me and all hotel Düsseldorf-Oberkassel
Our base for the trip was me and all hotel Düsseldorf-Oberkassel, a hotel that immediately challenged expectations of what a modern city hotel can be.
credit: World of Hyatt
First Impressions and Public Spaces
From the moment we entered the lobby, the atmosphere felt warm, modern, and full of personality. The open lounge space functions as more than just a reception area - it is a social hub. Guests work, meet, relax, and dine here, creating a sense of community rather than anonymity.
The presence of Cucina Italiana by SPAGHETTI & STARS within the hotel further elevates the experience, offering high-quality Italian dishes without the need to leave the building.
The Rooms
The hotel features 249 individually designed rooms, ensuring that nothing feels generic or mass-produced. Our room was thoughtfully laid out, modern yet cosy, and exceptionally comfortable. The bed was of particularly high quality, the bathroom was sleek and immaculate, and the overall design felt intentional rather than purely aesthetic. It felt closer to staying in a well-designed apartment than in a traditional hotel room.
Breakfast was a highlight, with fresh artisan breads, fruit, yoghurts, and savoury options that reflected both quality and care in preparation.
What truly sets this hotel apart, however, is its commitment to sustainability. Energy-efficient systems, responsible material choices, and waste reduction are evident throughout the property. These practices are not presented as marketing features but as integrated values, making it a stay that feels both comfortable and responsible.
Location: Oberkassel
credit: Google Maps
Oberkassel offers a stylish neighbourhood atmosphere while remaining exceptionally well connected. Cafés, the Rhine promenade, and excellent public transport links are all within easy reach, making it an ideal base for exploring Düsseldorf during the Christmas season.
Sustainability efforts at the Düsseldorf Christmas Markets
The Düsseldorf Christmas Market demonstrates that festive atmosphere and environmental responsibility can go hand in hand. Alongside its visual spectacle and cultural programme, the city has made a clear commitment to sustainability, setting an example for how large-scale seasonal events can be both atmospheric and future oriented.
A central pillar of this commitment is the mandatory use of environmentally friendly reusable tableware across all catering stalls. Food and drinks are served exclusively in reusable containers or with minimal outer packaging. Traditional favourites such as chips or roasted almonds are still offered in classic paper bags, ensuring that familiar market customs are preserved while reducing unnecessary waste.
When purchasing food or drinks, a small deposit is charged for the tableware. This deposit is fully refunded when the items are returned. Importantly, reusable plates, bowls, and cups can be returned to any stall issuing tableware, not only the one where the purchase was made. For organisational reasons, up to five items per person can be returned at a time, ensuring smooth operation even during busy periods.
Dining in Düsseldorf: From German Classics to Japanese Precision
Wilma Wunder: Modern Comfort Food
Wilma Wunder Düsseldorf is the embodiment of warmth and familiarity, combining retro design elements with a contemporary menu. Spread across multiple floors - including a rooftop terrace - it is suitable for everything from relaxed breakfasts to evening meals.
The menu focuses on creative German and European comfort food, with strong vegetarian and vegan representation.
Highlights included truffle fries topped with hard cheese and edible flowers, a smash croissant combining a juicy beef patty with buttery pastry and perfectly executed Wiener-style schnitzels. Desserts were equally impressive, particularly the warm skillet cookie served with vanilla-oat ice cream and the pistachio-filled crookie.
Kushi-Tei of Tokyo: Little Tokyo Excellence
Düsseldorf’s Japanese community is one of the largest in Europe, and Kushi-Tei of Tokyo is a standout representation of this culinary heritage.
We enjoyed the KUSHITEI menu, featuring charcoal-grilled kushiyaki skewers including chicken thigh, meatballs, duck breast, US short rib, shrimp, and corn-fed chicken wings. Each skewer demonstrated exceptional balance and depth of flavour.
The sushi course showcased precise craftsmanship with nigiri, gunkan, and maki, followed by traditional sides such as spinach with sesame-miso dressing, miso soup, and matcha ice cream. The atmosphere was intimate, lively, and unmistakably authentic.
HeimWerk: German Comfort with Integrity
Located in Düsseldorf’s Altstadt, HeimWerk specialises in traditional German dishes prepared with local, ethical, additive-free ingredients. Their commitment to quality to the menu has earned them membership in Slow Food Germany.
The schnitzel selection was extensive and expertly prepared, including pork schnitzel, chicken schnitzel breaded with cornflakes, and Bavarian cordon bleu. Side dishes such as roasted potatoes and Käsespätzle complemented the mains perfectly.
Desserts included chocolate Schmarrn and classic Kaiserschmarrn, both rich and satisfying. The experience combined hearty comfort with genuine care for sourcing and preparation.
Festive Experiences Beyond the Markets
KD Festive Rhine Cruise
One of the most memorable experiences of our visit was the KD Festive Boat Cruise on the Rhine, offering a calm contrast to the busy streets and markets.
As the boat drifted along the river, the atmosphere was peaceful and festive. The illuminated Old Town passed slowly by, accompanied by live music and the scent of mulled wine and cinnamon.
Dates: 21 November - 21 December 2025
Schedule: Boarding at 3 pm, departure at 3:30 pm, return at 5:30 pm.
The experience includes reserved seating, live music, Santa Claus, and à la carte food and drinks.
The Wheel of Vision
The Wheel of Vision rises 55 metres above the city, offering panoramic views of Düsseldorf’s Christmas lights and markets. With 42 heated gondolas, the experience remains comfortable regardless of weather conditions and provides a memorable perspective on the festive cityscape.
From drifting along the Rhine on a festive boat cruise to gliding - or cautiously edging - across the ice at Kö on Ice, from panoramic views aboard the Wheel of Vision to discovering themed markets woven through the entire city centre, Düsseldorf proves that its Advent season is about far more than tradition alone.
The experience is made seamless by the DüsseldorfCard Plus, which removes transport barriers entirely and encourages visitors to explore freely - not just within the city, but across the wider Rhine and Ruhr region. Combined with excellent flight connections via Cologne, a design-led and sustainability-focused stay at me and all hotel Düsseldorf-Oberkassel, and a food scene that ranges from comforting German classics to world-class Japanese cuisine, Düsseldorf offers a winter city break that feels both immersive and effortlessly enjoyable.
What do you think? Do you think you will visit Düsseldorf on your next Christmas Market break?
Find out more at Visit Düsseldorf website.
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