SouthWest Germany: The Spirit of Christmas lives

Here are ten favourites, all traditional, all fun – and all very SouthWest Germany.

Stuttgart                                              

One of Europe’s largest markets is also one of the oldest, with a 300-year history, and it fills the city’s car-free heart. Stalls vie for the “best decorated” title, so all have greenery, sparkling lights and ornaments. Free Christmas concerts are held in Old Palace’s Renaissance courtyard, as well as on the steps of the Town Hall.
www.stuttgarter-weihnachtsmarkt.de

Heidelberg                                          

As well as the stalls in the Old Town, one of Europe’s longest pedestrianised streets is bright with cheerful shops. Couples skate round “Germany’s most beautiful ice rink”; children love the fairy-tale Winter Woodland. On Advent weekends, the romantic castle hosts a special Christmas market.
www.heidelberg-marketing.de 

Karlsruhe                                           

One highlight is the 56-ft tall Glühweinpyramide, a pyramid of mulled wine. The festive drink is at ground level; above are tiers of giant toy soldiers, fairies and angels. Children love the “Flying Santa Claus” that flies on his sled high above Friedrichsplatz square. Equally popular is the vast open-air ice rink.
www.weihnachtsstadt-karlsruhe.de

Ludwigsburg                   

In this Baroque town, what else but a Baroque theme for the market? Thousands of tiny shimmering lights, many outlining the wings of giant angels, decorate the main square, where stalls sell locally-made gifts, foods and warming drinks. Try a freshly-baked local Holzofendinnede, like a mini pizza, but more delicious!
www.ludwigsburg.de

Freiburg                                              

One of Germany’s most beautiful Christmas markets is held on the Town Hall Square, where stalls reflect the traditions of the surrounding Black Forest. Chat to, and buy from, woodcarvers, stone cutters, glass blowers, potters and candle makers. 
www.weihnachtsmarkt.freiburg.de

Gengenbach                                       

Gengenbach in the Black Forest boasts the world’s largest Advent Calendar. In the countdown to Christmas, the 24 windows on the 200-year-old town hall, provide the “dates”. Every evening, the “calendar” changes as a new window is opened. Unique!
www.gengenbach.info

Konstanz                                             

With artisans, stallholders and restaurateurs, Christmas treats are everywhere, from toys to sweets. One special feature of this market on Lake Constance is the illuminated Christmas Ship, moored in the harbour, with yet more stalls to explore. 
www.weihnachtsmarkt-am-see.de

Tübingen                                            

Everything in this university city’s Christmas market is locally-made, hand-made, home-made, hand-crafted, hand-carved, hand-painted … and special! Before that, chocolART is a 6-day chocolate festival: tasting chox, making chox, chocolate-inspired menus in restaurants.
www.tuebingen-info.de

Esslingen                                             

Even more fun than the Christmas Market is the Medieval Fayre: 200 themed stalls and 500 cultural events provide non-stop entertainment along the cobbled streets of this medieval town centre. Artisans display traditional craftsmanship and long-forgotten skills. Anybody for axe throwing?
www.esslingen-marketing.de

Ravenna Gorge                

Set in a wooded canyon, deep in the Black Forest, 40 stalls offer handmade Christmas gifts created by talented craftsmen and women. And, the railway arches above are illuminated with a special laser and Christmas music show.
www.hochschwarzwald.de/Weihnachtsmarkt