Weihnachtsmarkt am See

Ranked #1 in the four-country Lake Constance region and featured in GEO Magazine's Top 10 most nostalgic Christmas markets in Germany, the Weihnachtsmarkt am See in Konstanz is one of the most scenically spectacular holiday markets in the country. Stretching from the historic Marktstätte across the harbor and through the Stadtgarten along the Bodensee shoreline, around 170 individually decorated stalls create a glittering winter wonderland framed by Alpine panoramas and the iconic Imperia statue. The market's crown jewel is its unique illuminated Christmas Ship moored in the harbor, offering a 360° panorama bar with sweeping views over the lake, the medieval Konzil building, and the market itself. A lovingly restored historic horse carousel from 1897, complete with hand-carved figures, delights visitors of all ages, while the dedicated Weihnachts-Wichtel-Dorf (Christmas Gnome Village) provides a magical play area for children. The Christbaum Schänke — a walk-in, multi-story Christmas tree bar — and the Füxle Bar serving organic Winzerglühwein and specialty hot drinks add to the cozy atmosphere. Culinary offerings lean heavily into regional and sustainable sourcing, with highlights including Ochsenfetzen vom Höri, Dünnele flatbread, Swiss Stangenfondue, Käsespätzle, Baumstriezel, and homemade Lebkuchen. The market holds Green Event BW certification and uses 100% renewable energy. Live performances by local choirs, brass ensembles, and music schools fill the air with traditional Christmas music throughout the season. Over 500,000 visitors attend annually, making this a beloved destination for both locals and international travelers arriving conveniently by train, bus, or ferry.