Christmas markets for families: our top 5 in the Rhineland

Illuminated huts, the smell of roasted almonds and stalls with handicrafts: what would the Advent season be without a visit to a Christmas market? The Christmas markets in Cologne, Aachen, Düsseldorf and Bonn are particularly beautiful and well-known in the Rhineland. But let's be honest: these Christmas markets are only suitable for families with small children during the day. When it gets dark and the lights make the market glow festively, it's usually too crowded and too loud with very small children. But there are other ways, so you don't have to miss out on the Christmas market experience as a family. We present five of the most beautiful Christmas markets for families in the Rhineland. And best of all, you'll find one of 32 Rhineland youth hostels near most of the Christmas markets, offering you cosy and affordable accommodation.

#1 Castle Christmas at Satzvey Castle, Mechernich

02.12.-17.12.2023, each Sat. 13.00-20.00 & Sun. 12.00-19.00
In front of the historic ambience of the castle, you can stroll past market stalls where traders offer their handmade goods and regional specialities. A special treat for children: a nativity play with elaborate costumes takes place several times a day in the castle park. Father Christmas will be on hand to receive the children's wish lists. His elves walk around and give visitors a sweet or two. On Saturdays until 3 pm, children can also have their boots filled.Admission: €14.50 (VVK €12) adults, €12 (VVK €10) children, €10 (VVK €8) children, children under 4 years free, €39 (VVK €32) family (2 adults & 2 children)
Further information
Youth hostels in the neighbourhood: Bad Münstereifel Youth Hostel

#2 Castle Christmas at Dyck Castle

Sat + Sun: 02 + 03, 9 + 10 and 16 + 17 Dec. 2023, as well as Fri + Sat: 22 + 23 Dec. 2023, 10.00 - 20.00 in each case
The grounds of the historic moated castle smell of pine trees and biscuits, while blazing fire baskets provide warmth. Around 140 exhibitors offer their wares: Gift ideas, Christmas decorations, jewellery, textiles and of course a large selection of culinary delicacies. A special treat for children: a children's carousel, a steam train and an angel hunt in the castle provide entertainment for children. In addition, a lively nativity play starts every half hour from the castle terrace every Saturday and Sunday from 12pm to 7pm.Admission incl. reservation fee: adult €17.50, reduced €13.50, child (7-16yrs) €3, child (0-6yrs) €0
Further information
Youth hostels in the neighbourhood: Neuss Youth Hostel

#3 Grünewalder Advent Dream, Solingen Gräfrath

01-17 December 2023, Fri. 14.00 - 21.00, Sat. + Sun. 11.00 - 20.00
This special Christmas market in Solingen-Gräfrath will be delighting visitors for the 18th time this year. A completely illuminated park landscape with over 1,500 fairy lights, torches along the paths and fire baskets create a magical atmosphere. Hundreds of exhibitors offer arts and crafts, modern design, textiles, baked goods, toys and much more. Stalls with Alsatian tarte flambée, raclette, flamed salmon, mulled wine, Grünewalder eggnog and fresh chestnuts provide for the physical well-being. A special treat for children: in a candle-lit tent in the middle of the forest, children of all ages can write down their most secret wishes and blow them into the sky with moon dust. The witches are busy making crispy houses, a jester lovingly pokes fun at the audience and the medieval mouse roulette attracts many players.Admission: Adults €8.00 (advance booking €6.00), children up to and including 16 years free
Further information
Youth hostel nearby: Radevormwald Youth Hostel

#4 Monschau Christmas market

24.11.-23.12.2023, Fri. + Sat. 11.00-21.00, Sun. 11.00-20.00
During the Christmas season, the historic old town of Monschau is transformed into a fairytale Christmas world. Decorated wooden stalls with attractive offers invite you to go Christmas shopping. There are handmade goods, unusual gifts and Christmas decorations. A special treat for children: a gnome trail leads through the centre of the town and there is a historic carousel at the market. St Nicholas comes by every Saturday and hands out small gifts.
Further information
Youth hostels in the neighbourhood: Burg-Monschau Youth Hostel, Monschau-Hargard Youth Hostel

#5 PANARBORA Winter lights

24.11.-23.12.2023, 27.12.-07.01.2023, daily 11.00-20.00 h
After last year's success, the Winter Illuminations are taking place for the second time this year. Not only the observation tower and treetop path are mystically and invitingly illuminated. Other parts of the park grounds will also be illuminated with various light installations and transformed into a mysterious landscape. At the weekends (Saturday and Sunday), the Winter Illuminations are complemented by a small Christmas market with wintry treats and fairground rides and the „Waldbröl is looking for the super Christmas tree“ event. Park admission: Adults €10.90, children 4-17 years €7.40 (children under 4 years free), family ticket (parents and grandparents with up to 3 children) €29.40
Further information
Youth hostels in the neighbourhood: The „Panarbora“ nature adventure park is not only part of the youth hostel of the same name, the youth hostel also has a winter glow programme. Favourable family offer laced.