In the winter, Rothenburg ob der Tauber takes on a unique character. The chilly air underlines the medieval charm of this well-preserved city, with its timber-framed houses and cobblestone streets providing the perfect backdrop for the festive season.
The Christmas market, or “Reiterlesmarkt,” further amplifies the seasonal joy. It presents a traditional German holiday experience replete with decorative lights, cosy stalls, and the scents of mulled wine and gingerbread.
In this guide, I share all the essentials for a visit, including dates, opening hours, locations, and local specialties to savour this year.
Rothenburg Christmas Market
The Christmas market in Rothenburg, known as the Reiterlesmarkt, is steeped in a rich history that dates back to the 15th century.
It’s named after the ‘Reiterle’, a character from local legends that have transitioned from a feared spectre to a beloved symbol of the holiday season.
As you wander through the market, you’ll find a wide array of handcrafted items, from traditional German Christmas decorations to delicate glass ornaments. Delight in local delicacies like the ‘Schneeballen’, a unique, snowball-shaped pastry.
The market’s setting in the charming medieval town square, flanked by half-timbered houses, only adds to its charm and allure. It is an experience that aptly encapsulates the spirit of Christmas in Rothenburg.
Dates and Location
Rothenburg Christmas Market dates: 29th November to 23rd December 2024 (unconfirmed).
Location: Marktplatz.
Opening times: 11am to 7pm.
Christmas Day: Closed.
Admission: Free, no tickets required.
Santa: No.
Ice skating: No.
Vegetarian: Yes, plenty of options.
Vegan: Yes, plenty of options.
Gluten-free: Yes, but limited.
Accessible: Yes.
Pet-friendly: Yes, dogs are allowed on a lead.
Parking: Please take public transport to help limit congestion. Most of the city centre is car-free but there are several large car parks just outside of the city walls.
Reason to visit: Authentic medieval ambience juxtaposed with vibrant festivities. Handcrafted items exude old-world charm, yet it’s the distinctive Rothenburg ‘schneeballen’ that’s irresistible.
Recommended tour: Old Town private walking tour.
Specialities: Traditional Rothenburg ‘schneeballen’. Warming glühwein. Flaky apple strudel. Festive Christmas stollen.
Where to stay: Hotel Herrnschloesschen is a popular hotel, 2-minutes from Marktplatz.
Convenient Hotels
Staying in the vicinity of Marktplatz is the ideal location. This is the town centre and where you’ll find many famous historic sights, half-timbered houses and cute shops.
As for accommodation, I recommend Hotel Herrnschloesschen; its superb location and exceptional ratings make it a brilliant choice for your stay.
Event Location
Recommended Tours
This Rothenburg city tour is an excellent choice, as it enables you to see many of the city’s highlights with a local guide.
On such a tour, you’re introduced to Rothenburg’s iconic landmarks and attractions, which include the historic town walls, the striking Rathaus (Town Hall) and the towering St. Jakob’s Church.
If you’re looking to visit elsewhere this winter, I recommend you check out my German Christmas Markets 2024 guide.
What to Expect
Regional Specialties
Schneeballen: A unique Rothenburg pastry that draws its name from its snowball-like shape. Made by cutting rolled-out dough into strips, shaping it into a ball, and then deep-frying it until golden, it’s often dusted with powdered sugar or coated with chocolate.
Stollen: A dense, aromatic fruit bread that is a classic in German Christmas cuisine. Bursting with dried fruit, nuts, and spices, it’s covered with a dusting of icing sugar that gives it the appearance of a snow-covered log. It’s a great vegetarian-friendly option.
Lebkuchen: Hailing from the nearby city of Nuremberg but popular throughout Germany, these are akin to gingerbread cookies. Lebkuchen are sweet, slightly nutty and imbued with a variety of spices, making them a staple of the holiday season.
Kartoffelpuffer: These are savoury potato pancakes, grated and fried to a crisp. Traditionally served with apple sauce, they make for a comforting, vegetarian-friendly snack on cold winter days.
Bratwurst: Although not exclusive to the Christmas season, Bratwurst sausages are a popular choice at German markets. Typically grilled and served in a bread roll, they’re a hearty meat option for those looking to sample traditional German fare.
Glühwein: A heartwarming drink that’s essentially mulled wine, it’s a blend of red wine, spices, citrus peel and sugar. Consumed hot, Glühwein is a market staple.
At the Food Stalls
Pretzels: A German market wouldn’t be complete without these twisted bread treats. Usually sprinkled with coarse salt, they’re crunchy on the outside and soft on the inside. Warm pretzels provide a delicious snack while exploring the market.
Reibekuchen: Also known as potato fritters, reibekuchen is a crowd-pleaser at any German market. Served hot with a dollop of apple sauce, they’re a crisp and savoury street food favourite.
Feuerzangenbowle is a dramatic and festive drink. A rum-soaked sugarloaf is set on fire and drips into mulled wine, creating a fiery spectacle and a warm, potent punch.
Waffles: Made fresh, often with a dusting of icing sugar and a variety of toppings, they are a sweet indulgence.
Bratkartoffeln: These are German-style fried potatoes, usually cooked with onions and bacon. A popular hot dish at the market, they provide a filling, savoury snack as you stroll among the stalls.
Flammkuchen: This Alsatian ‘fire cake’ is akin to a thin-crust pizza. Topped with crème fraîche, onions and lardons, it’s a popular choice for those seeking something more substantial than snacks. Vegetarian versions are also available.
Schokofrüchte: Perfect for sweet-toothed visitors, schokofrüchte are fresh fruits such as strawberries or bananas, dipped in melted chocolate and left to harden.
What to Buy
Käthe Wohlfahrt Ornaments: This well-known German brand specialises in ornaments and decorations. Its flagship store in Rothenburg is open all year round, but at Christmas, the market also carries an array of beautifully crafted pieces, from traditional nutcrackers to intricate glass baubles.
Handcrafted Wooden Items: The stalls at the Rothenburg market often display a selection of locally crafted wooden items. Whether it’s charming toy figurines, decorative wall hangings, or intricately carved kitchen utensils, these make for authentic, long-lasting gifts.
Cuckoo Clocks: A symbol of German craftsmanship, these intricate clocks are a distinctive gift option. Ranging from simple designs to detailed carvings depicting scenes from nature or local life, a cuckoo clock brings a piece of the Black Forest into your home.
Gingerbread Moulds: A nod to the popularity of lebkuchen, these wooden cookie moulds come in all shapes and sizes.
Local Wines and Spirits: Rothenburg and the surrounding region produce some excellent wines, and a bottle or two would make a fantastic gift for any wine connoisseur. Local spirits, such as the distinctive Franconian schnapps, are also available.
Snow Globes: One of the more whimsical options, these snow globes depict iconic scenes of Rothenburg.
Handblown Glass: Handcrafted by skilled artisans, they add a touch of tradition to any tree.
You’ll find a wealth of additional information for your visit at the local tourist office. For example, this list of the top 10 sights is a great place to get started on planning where to go.
Sustainability Tips
Renewable Energy: A number of hotels and guesthouses in Rothenburg use renewable energy sources. By choosing to stay at such places, you’re supporting sustainable practices.
Reducing Food Waste: The Christmas market in Rothenburg is famous for its food stalls, but be mindful of over-ordering. Enjoy what you can, and remember, leftover pretzels and gingerbread make great snacks for later!
Ethical Consumption: Numerous vendors at the Rothenburg Christmas Market sell locally-made goods. By purchasing from them, you’re supporting the local economy and artisans who often use sustainable practices.
Sustainable Diets: Many food vendors at the market offer vegetarian and vegan options. Opting for these plant-based foods is a simple yet effective way to reduce your carbon footprint.
Sustainable Transport: Rothenburg is a compact town, and walking is the best way to get around. Not only is it a zero-emission option, but it also gives you a chance to discover hidden corners of the town. If you’re travelling to Rothenburg from further away, consider train travel instead of driving or flying. Germany has an extensive, efficient railway network that can bring you right to the town’s doorstep.
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Recommendations are independently chosen based on personal travel experiences and extensive research.
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