With the festive season approaching, visitors across Germany are preparing for one of the country’s most beloved traditions: the Christmas market. Yet many will notice that a classic favourite—mulled wine—has become more expensive this year. According to recent evaluations of market prices, the cost of a standard cup has risen nationwide, reflecting broader increases in wages, energy and raw materials.
In many cities, the price increase is moderate. In others, it is striking, with some locations seeing jumps of around 25 percent compared with last year. A closer look at the numbers shows a patchwork of price developments across the country.
How mulled wine prices compare across major German cities
While prices vary by region and individual market operators, a number of Germany’s most visited Christmas markets illustrate the current trend:
- Munich (Christkindlmarkt): €5.00–7.50 (previous year €5.00–6.00)
- Düsseldorf: €5.00 (previous year €4.50)
- Cologne (“Markt der Engel”): €5.00 (unchanged)
- Hamburg – Santa Pauli: €5.00 (unchanged)
- Hamburg – Rathausmarkt: €5.00 (up from €4.50–5.00)
- Hamburg – Jungfernstieg: €4.50 (unchanged)
- Berlin – Breitscheidplatz: €5.00 (unchanged)
- Berlin – Potsdamer Platz: €5.00 (unchanged)
- Berlin – „Treptower Wintertraum“: €4.50 (previous year €4.00)
- Berlin – „Spandauer Winterland“: €4.50 (unchanged)
- Nuremberg (Christkindlesmarkt): €4.50 (unchanged)
- Dortmund: €3.50 (unchanged)
- Braunschweig: €3.50 (unchanged)
The national average, based on broader market research, is currently €4.54 per cup, excluding the refundable mug deposit. Overall, this represents an increase of about seven percent compared with last year and roughly 15 percent more than in 2023.
Why the cost of mulled wine is rising
Market operators point to several overlapping reasons behind the price adjustments. Labour costs have risen due to Germany’s higher minimum wage, meaning businesses must pay significantly more than in previous years. For many small vendors, these additional personnel expenses cannot simply be absorbed.
Energy prices remain elevated, pressuring operators who rely on gas or electricity for heating equipment and lighting. In addition, stall fees and administrative costs in many cities have increased. Producers who supply the mulled wine itself have also raised prices per litre, citing more expensive raw materials and transport.
These combined factors make it increasingly challenging for vendors to maintain previous price levels. While some markets have managed to keep costs stable, others have had no choice but to adjust their prices more noticeably.
A cherished tradition that remains popular despite rising costs
Even with higher prices, mulled wine is expected to remain a central part of the Christmas market experience. For many visitors, the warm drink is less about cost and more about atmosphere—meeting friends, enjoying the lights and embracing the seasonal spirit.
Still, the price trend underscores a broader development: festive outings in Germany have become more expensive overall. As families and groups decide which markets to visit this year, many will compare prices more consciously than in the past.
