The Advent season has arrived, and Munich is glowing in festive light. Across the Bavarian capital, more than 30 Christmas markets open their stalls, filling the city with carols, mulled wine, and candlelight.
Among the traditional Christkindlmärkte, two stand out for their nostalgic flair — one aboard a historic ship, the other inside a centuries-old castle. Both promise a Christmas experience straight out of a fairy tale.
The “Star Fleet” on the Alte Utting: Munich’s floating Christmas harbor
In the district of Sendling, an old passenger ship becomes a winter wonderland. From November 27 to December 23, 2025, the legendary “Alte Utting” — once sailing the Ammersee — will be transformed into the “Sternenflotte” Christmas Market.
Anchored on its old railway bridge near the Großmarkthalle, the ship now hosts a Christmas harbor with a cozy festive atmosphere. Visitors can enjoy ice curling, live music, storytelling sessions, and children’s activities such as face painting and fairy-tale readings.
Dozens of artisans and designers will sell handmade crafts and gifts, turning the deck and surrounding area into a glittering holiday bazaar.
Address: Lagerhausstraße 15, 81371 Munich
Dates: Nov 27–30 | Dec 4–7 | Dec 11–14 | Dec 15–23 2025
Opening hours: Thu–Fri 16:00–22:00, Sat–Sun 14:00–22:00
Evening visitors can watch the ship shimmer in festive lights as Christmas music echoes over the bridge — a true hidden gem for those who love Munich’s creative side.
Christmas in a castle: Blutenburg lights up for Advent
A few kilometers to the west, the Blutenburg Castle Christmas Market in Obermenzing brings pure nostalgia. From December 4 to 7, 2025, the 15th-century moated castle opens its gates for four magical days filled with festive music, candlelight, and local tradition.
The courtyard and gardens beside the River Würm host artisans, food stalls, and festive stands. Visitors can enjoy bratwurst, pastries, roasted almonds, coffee, and Glühwein served by the castle tavern.
Adding to the old-world charm: a Lucia bonfire, a lantern parade, brass ensembles, and a visit from St Nicholas himself.
Address: Seldweg 15, 81247 Munich
Dates: Dec 4–7 2025
Opening hours: Thu–Sat 11:00–20:00, Sun 11:00–19:00
The Blutenburg market is small but exquisite — a perfect escape for anyone who prefers tradition over crowds.
A city full of festive treasures
Beyond these two highlights, Munich offers countless smaller Christmas markets — from neighborhood events to hidden courtyards filled with local crafts and culinary delights. Whether on a ship deck under the stars or in a castle courtyard, the city’s Advent spirit combines nostalgia, community, and Bavarian coziness like nowhere else.
