Regensburg Christmas market: Advent in the UNESCO city

During Advent, Regensburg’s old town is transformed into an atmospheric sea of lights. Several Christmas markets invite you to browse and enjoy their offerings among winding lanes, medieval façades and historic squares. At the heart of the celebrations is the traditional Regensburg Christmas market on Neupfarrplatz.

From the decorated wooden stalls around Neupfarrkirche to the festive lights at Thurn und Taxis Palace, Regensburg offers a variety of Advent experiences. Arts and crafts, regional specialities and Christmas music accompany you through the UNESCO World Heritage city.

Regensburg Christmas market on Neupfarrplatz

From the end of November until shortly before Christmas, Neupfarrplatz shines with festive lights. The origins of this traditional Christmas market reach back to around 1790. Today, its decorated stalls gather around Neupfarrkirche, which is illuminated after dark.

At the stalls, potters, glassblowers, candle makers, woodcarvers and other craftspeople present their work. Handmade jewellery, Christmas decorations and small gift ideas offer plenty of inspiration for festive souvenirs.

The market also celebrates the flavours of the region. Alongside roasted almonds and chestnuts, the air is filled with the aroma of Regensburg sausages. Blueberry mulled wine from the Bavarian Forest and apple mulled wine made with fruit from Upper Palatinate orchards offer a fruity alternative to the classic drink.

A changing programme of events gets visitors of all ages into the Christmas spirit. Details of the performances and family activities taking place during your visit can be found in the current programme published by the City of Regensburg.

Arts and culture at the Lucrezia Market

If you are looking for individual works of art and craftsmanship, the Lucrezia Market on Haidplatz and Kohlenmarkt is well worth a visit. Jewellery, candles, sculptures, glassware and other handmade pieces fill the stalls, while a changing cultural programme brings music, theatre and other performances to the historic squares.

Advent beside the Stone Bridge

The Advent market at St Katharinenspital occupies an atmospheric setting beside the Danube at the foot of the Stone Bridge. Open fires cast a warm glow across the market while music and the aroma of seasonal food fill the air. Jewellery, products made from wool and olive wood, and other distinctive gifts can also be found here.

Christmas shopping for a good cause

At the Christmas event organised by Regensburg’s social initiatives on Bismarckplatz, participating organisations offer handmade products and seasonal treats. The selection changes throughout Advent, giving you the opportunity to discover new ideas while supporting socialorten benefiting social projects in the city.

Christmas atmosphere in Dörnbergpark

On the edge of Dörnbergpark, the Gräflicher Christkindlmarkt takes place in the rose garden surrounding the Rosarium restaurant. Old trees, illuminated stalls and the park setting create a quieter contrast to the lively markets in the old town. Regional crafts and a range of food and drink complete the experience.

Discover Advent in Regensburg

Regensburg’s Christmas markets each have their own character. You can browse traditional crafts on Neupfarrplatz, discover contemporary handmade pieces at the Lucrezia Market, sit beside the fire near the Stone Bridge or experience the festive setting of Thurn und Taxis Palace.

Current information about the different markets, opening hours and seasonal programmes is available on the official Regensburg Tourism Christmas page.

Travelling to Regensburg Christmas market by rail

Travel by rail to Regensburg Hauptbahnhof. From there, it takes around 15 minutes to walk along Maximilianstrasse towards the old town and on to the Christmas market at Neupfarrplatz.