Esslingen - Mittelaltermarkt & Weihnachtsmarkt

The Esslingen Medieval Market and Christmas Market is one of the most fascinating and atmospheric events of the pre-Christmas season, transforming Esslingen's picturesque half-timbered old town into a double winter wonderland. The incomparable magic of this market comes from the seamless fusion of two different worlds.

The medieval market is the heart of the event, transporting visitors back centuries in time. There are no modern fairy lights here; instead, countless candles, torches and open fires bathe the streets in a dark, warm and mysterious light. Hundreds of traders, craftsmen and jugglers in historical costumes bring the scene to life. You can watch blacksmiths heating iron, glassblowers forming filigree works of art, or basket weavers at their traditional craft, and purchase authentic goods. The scent of wood fires, roast suckling pig, freshly baked flatbread and spiced mead fills the air. A continuous programme of jugglers, jesters and musicians with bagpipes creates an archaic, rousing atmosphere, which is complemented by knight camps and show fights.

The traditional Esslingen Christmas market follows on seamlessly from this spectacle. This area offers the familiar, colourful world of Christmas with classic decorations, nativity scene accessories and modern sweet and savoury treats.

The entire event is supported by Esslingen's impressive half-timbered architecture, which, with its winding alleys and historic buildings, provides the perfect fairytale backdrop for this journey through time. The Esslingen market is thus much more than just a place of trade; it is a lively, sensory experience that immerses visitors deeply in Christmas history and tradition.

Travel information:

By public transport:

- By train: Esslingen station (distance 600 m)

- By bus: Marktplatz stop (lines 102, 103, 105, 108, 109, 110, 122, N14)

By car:

- Venue: Marktplatz / Rathausplatz

Parking:

- Marktplatz car park (Agnespromenade 4)

- B+B car park (Martinstraße 15)

- B+B car park (Kiesstraße 1)

- Neckar Forum Esslingen APCOA car park (Grabbrunnenstraße 19)

- Pliensauturm car park (Neckarstraße 29)

- Beim Bahnhof APCOA car park (Berliner Str. 1)