Regensburg is a UNESCO World Heritage site, well-known for its historic medieval city centre. The Bavarian city becomes especially inviting with its popular Christkindlmarkt.
Read on for the Regensburg Christmas Market dates, opening times, locations, and the local specialties that make this market stand out.
Regensburg Christmas Market 2025
Dates and Location – Unconfirmed
Regensburg dates: 24th November to 23rd December 2025 (unconfirmed). Verify the schedule here.
Location: Neupfarrplatz.
Opening times:
Sunday to Wednesday: 10am to 8pm.
Thursday to Saturday: 10am to 9pm.
Christmas Day: Closed.
Admission: Free.
Lights: To save energy, the church will not be illuminated.
Santa: Yes, every Wednesday is children’s day. Santa visits from 4pm to 5pm (unconfirmed).
Carousel: Rides are discounted on children’s day.
Ice skating: No.
Vegetarian: Yes, plenty of options.
Vegan: Yes, plenty of options.
Gluten free: Yes, but limited.
Accessible: Yes.
Pet-friendly: Yes, but not recommended during busy periods.
Parking: Please take public transport to help limit congestion.
Reason to visit: UNESCO World Heritage setting, traditional artisans, four distinct markets, nightly Christ Child appearance, Danube riverside views.
Specialities: Bavarian potato soup in bread bowl, roasted almonds, lebkuchen, marzipan sweets.
Where to stay: Hotel Das Regensburg is a popular hotel, located 5 minutes from Neupfarrplatz.
Central Hotels
Staying in Regensburg’s Old Town is a practical choice because it is conveniently located near Neupfarrplatz. The area provides easy access to the market and is well-connected to other parts of the city.
For an eco-friendly hotel option near the market, consider staying at the popular and highly-rated Hotel Das Regensburg.
For a detailed overview of where to go, read our German Christmas Markets List.
Event Location
Lucrezia
At the Lucrezia Market in Regensburg, located on Haidplatz and Kohlenmarkt, you can expect a unique shopping experience focusing on high-quality, contemporary handicrafts.
This market distinguishes itself with a diverse music programme on two stages, an art exhibition at nearby locations, such as the Thon-Dittmer-Palais, and social and cultural activities in what is known as an ‘action hut’.
Culinary options are equally diverse, accommodating various dietary preferences with items ranging from organic and vegetarian to vegan, along with staples like sausages, crêpes, and hot drinks.
Lucrezia Market dates: 28th November to 23rd December 2025 (unconfirmed).
Location: Kohlenmarkt and Haidplatz.
Opening times: Sunday to Thursday: 11am to 8pm. Friday and Saturday: 11am to 9pm.
Admission: Free.
Romantic
At the Romantic Market located in Thurn und Taxis Palace grounds, you can expect an experience steeped in tradition and history.
The market is set against the backdrop of St. Emmeram Castle, a residence of a world-renowned aristocratic family, and torches, lanterns, and candles enhance the setting.
Vendors in festively decorated wooden huts showcase traditional crafts, and open fires between stalls create a warm atmosphere.
Culinary offerings include traditional Bavarian fare, such as potato soup served in a bread bowl, along with other regional delicacies.
The market also features a nightly appearance by a royal Christ Child figure, who recites a poem and showers the crowd with “stardust” for good luck.
Romantic Market dates: 21st November to 23rd December 2025 (unconfirmed).
Location: Thurn und Taxis Palace.
Opening times:
Monday to Thursday: 3pm to 10pm.
Friday: 3pm to 11pm.
Saturday: 12pm to 11pm.
Sunday: 12pm to 10pm.
Sunday of the Dead: Closed on 23rd November 2025.
Payment: Not all stalls accept credit or debit cards.
Admission: Tickets start at €6. Prices vary depending on the day and time of entry.
Tickets: Discounted early bird tickets are available online. Or purchase on the day at the event.
Entry: Tickets are for one entry only.
Santa: No, but Christkind visits this market.
Pet-friendly: Yes, dogs are allowed on a leash.
Advent Market at St. Katharinenspital
At Advent Market at St. Katharinenspital, you’ll find a warm and inviting atmosphere, thanks in part to its unique location at the foot of the Stone Bridge, which offers exceptional views of the Regensburg Cathedral.
The market is well-known for its cosy campfire spots, traditional mulled wines, and an array of sweet treats.
You can also expect a variety of handcrafted items for sale, including silver jewellery and olive wood crafts, making it an excellent place to source unique Christmas gifts.
Advent Market dates: 24th November to 23rd December 2025 (unconfirmed).
Location: The hospital garden in Stadtamhof, near the Stone Bridge.
Opening times: Monday to Friday: 4m to 10pm. Saturday: 11am to 10pm. Sunday: 11am to 9pm.
Admission: Free.
What to Expect
In Regensburg, you’ll experience a traditional Bavarian Christmas marked by intricate decorations and locally crafted gifts.
The city’s medieval streets are illuminated with fairy lights, creating a warm ambience that complements the area’s historic charm.
Regensburg’s winter events are internationally renowned, set amidst the historic backdrop of a UNESCO World Heritage Site, providing both atmosphere and high-quality items.
The Lucrezia Market, situated at Haidplatz and Kohlenmarkt, specialises in top-quality handicrafts and culinary delights, creating a unique environment for visitors of all ages.
The Romantic Market at Thurn und Taxis Palace is another standout, featuring traditional artisans, culinary treats and an enchanted forest for children. The Christ Child even appears nightly from the palace balcony.
For something different, consider the Advent Market at St. Katharinenspital, situated by the Danube with striking views of the cathedral. The riverside setting offers a distinctly serene ambience for holiday shopping and dining.
Regional Specialties
- Bratapfel: A traditional Bavarian treat, Bratapfel is essentially a baked apple stuffed with nuts and raisins. Served hot, these provide warmth and a unique combination of tart apples with sweet fillings.
- Lebkuchen: Originating in Germany, these gingerbread-like cookies have a firmer texture and are available in various shapes, often decorated with almonds or glazed with sugar.
- Marzipan Potatoes: While not actual potatoes, these marzipan confections resemble tiny spuds and are a sweet delight.
- Reiberdatschi: These are traditional Bavarian potato pancakes, typically served with apple sauce. Crisp on the outside, and soft on the inside, they satisfy savoury cravings amidst all the sweets.
- Stollen: This fruit bread is made with dried fruit and nuts and is often topped with powdered sugar. It’s a staple Christmas food; you’ll find it in various forms, sometimes even with a marzipan centre.
- Feuerzangenbowle: A unique drinking experience, it involves a rum-soaked sugar loaf set on fire and allowed to drip into mulled wine.
- Glühwein: The classic hot mulled wine is a fixture in any German Christmas market, including those in Regensburg. It’s served steaming hot and typically flavoured with various spices, such as cinnamon and cloves.
- Apfelpunsch: Apfelpunsch or apple punch is often available as a non-alcoholic option. It’s a hot, apple-based drink spiced with cinnamon and other festive spices, offering a warming alternative for those who avoid alcohol.
- Bratwurst: Though available year-round, Bratwurst takes on a special charm when enjoyed in the winter chill. Served in a bun, it’s a quick and hearty snack.
- Roasted Chestnuts: Found at many Christmas markets around the world, these are often sold in paper cones and provide a warm, nutty snack that complements the cooler weather.
- Churros: Though not native to Germany, these fried-dough pastries have made their way into Christmas markets.
- Crêpes: These thin pancakes can be filled with various toppings, such as Nutella, strawberries, or bananas. While not traditionally German, they add a French flair to the market’s food scene.
Gift Stalls
- Regensburg ceramics: The region is renowned for its exquisite ceramic crafts, and at the Christmas market, you’ll find a diverse selection of pottery items.
- Wooden toys: Regensburg has a rich tradition of wooden toy-making. As you wander through the stalls, you’ll come across beautifully crafted wooden dolls, puzzles, and intricate miniature models, making them perfect gifts for both children and collectors.
- Hand-blown glass ornaments: Delicate and shimmering, these ornaments are crafted by local artisans using age-old techniques.
- Bavarian hats: Recognisable by their distinct shape and often adorned with badges or feathers, these hats are a nod to the region’s cultural heritage.
- Gingerbread craft kits: Taking inspiration from the popular lebkuchen, some vendors offer kits to create your own gingerbread houses or figures.
- Regensburg photo books: These books offer a visual journey through the city, capturing the essence of Regensburg’s history, architecture, and scenic beauty.
- Bavarian beer mugs: Celebrating the region’s renowned brewing heritage, these mugs are often ceramic with intricate designs.
- Christmas cards with Regensburg motifs: Perfect for sending festive wishes, these cards feature iconic landmarks or festive scenes from Regensburg.
Sustainable Travel Tips
- Eco-friendly accommodation: Regensburg is home to several hotels that prioritise the environment. Opt for accommodations that utilise renewable energy sources, such as solar or wind power, and adopt sustainable practices like water conservation and waste reduction.
- Mindful consumption at the market: It’s easy to get carried away with the array of food options at the Christmas markets in Regensburg. To minimise food waste, order portions you can finish, share dishes with companions, and bring reusable containers for potential leftovers.
- Ethical shopping: While the allure of festive souvenirs is strong, focus on purchasing items you genuinely need or have long-term use for. Supporting local artisans, who craft their goods using sustainable methods and materials, also contributes to a more responsible shopping experience.
- Sustainable Diets: Embrace Local Plant-Based Dishes While in Regensburg. You’re opting for a diet with a lower carbon footprint by choosing vegetarian or vegan options at the Christmas market. Additionally, it’s an opportunity to experience the city’s distinctive take on these cuisines.
- Sustainable transport: Regensburg’s compact layout makes it ideal for walking or cycling, both eco-friendly ways to explore the city. For longer distances, the city’s public transport system is efficient and reduces your carbon footprint compared to driving.
Comment below if you want to leave a Xmas review, have any questions or would like to report any inaccuracies.
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Recommendations are independently chosen based on personal travel experiences and extensive research. While we make every effort to provide accurate information, the dates and details listed here should not be relied upon as definitive. Please consult the official website before booking your trip or planning a visit.
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