As the days grow shorter and leaves continue to fall in Bavaria’s capital, Munich wastes no time stepping into the festive season. While the iconic Christkindlmarkt at Marienplatz traditionally marks the city’s grand Christmas opening, several smaller and creatively themed markets will launch much earlier this year. Their goal: to give residents and visitors a relaxed, atmospheric start to winter — without the stress and crush of peak holiday tourism.
Five Christmas markets are opening earlier than usual
The very first to welcome guests is Winterworld Motorworld in Freimann, beginning its third season on 7 November. Embracing the motto Driving Home for Christmas, this automotive-themed wonderland offers a romantic Ferris wheel, musical acts and private chalet rentals — particularly popular for groups looking to celebrate in style.
Only a few days later, on 13 November, two more attractions light up the city. In the east, the Winterwunderwerk brings festive flair to Werksviertel-Mitte near Ostbahnhof. Ice skating, curling lanes, street-food chalets and live performances transform the former industrial district into a lively winter village.
On the same day, the Weihnachtszauberwald Bogenhausen launches its season — known for its warm forestry aesthetic, mulled wine highlights and a cosy, local neighbourhood atmosphere.
A magical setting in the heart of the city
From 17 November, the Christmas Village in the Kaiserhof of the Munich Residenz invites visitors into one of the most charming festive settings in the city centre. Surrounded by historic façades, guests can discover hand-carved wooden figures, traditional ornaments from skilled craftspeople and a miniature fairy-tale forest designed especially for younger visitors. It provides a more intimate alternative to the bustling city hotspots that follow later.
Christmas spirit in the Englischer Garten
The Christmas market at the Chinesischer Turm joins the celebrations on 20 November, offering alpine flair under the famous pagoda of the Englischer Garten. Fire pits, music and Bavarian comfort food make it a favourite stop for families and tourists looking to combine a walk in the park with holiday cheer.
A chance to enjoy Munich’s holiday charm at a slower pace
These early openers create a unique opportunity: to soak up festive flair before the city reaches full seasonal momentum. And that momentum arrives quickly — with the Christkindlmarkt at Marienplatz starting on 24 November and the Tollwood Winter Festival opening on 25 November, both of which draw large crowds.
Anyone hoping to enjoy Christmas in Munich with more space, calmer surroundings and shorter queues may want to start celebrating sooner rather than later. In the Bavarian capital, Christmas clearly begins long before December.
