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Frankfurt and Rüdesheim's markets are just an hour apart and a short drive from Wiesbaden.
FRANKFURT
There's much more in Frankfurt than the airport. In fact, the city's Christmas market is considered one of the most important in Germany. From the beautifully creative market booths to the historic Römerberg and Paulsplatz squares and the 100-foot-tall Christmas tree, it just may make it onto your list of favorite markets.
Christmas market dates: Nov. 25-Dec. 22, 2019
Location: Römerberg, Paulsplatz, Mainkai, Hauptwache and Friedrich-Stoltze-Platz
Helpful hints: Check out handmade items at the craft market in St. Paul’s Church and listen to a free Advent concert at 5:10 p.m. every Friday, Saturday and Sunday. When your feet need a rest, you get cold or need to escape rain, head to the booths that have covered and/or heated seating areas. Some may even take reservations!
Guided German/English (bilingual) walking tours are available Saturdays and Sundays at 11:30 a.m. and 1:30 p.m. Adult tickets are 14 euros each, but discounted family/student tickets are available.
Package deals are available through the Frankfurt Tourism office that includes an overnight stay in a local hotel with breakfast, vouchers for food and drinks at the market, and a two-day Frankfurt Card for 77 euros person.
Beyond the market: Get an overview of the city with a tour on a sightseeing bus. The Kaisersaal or Emporer's Hall is an ornate 17th-century building with 52 detailed oil paintings, and the Museum Embankment features more than 60 museums for art, history and science.
RÜDESHEIM AM RHEIN
Set in the town’s old quarter, the 120 stalls at the Rüdesheim market represent 20 different countries and their holiday foods and traditions. You’ll find anything — from locally distilled Ansbach Uralt brandy and Mongolian woolen goods to reindeer antler wine stoppers from Finland. A parade celebrating St. Thomas is scheduled for Dec. 20 at 6:30 p.m. — it is a lovely, joyful event that you won't want to miss.
Christmas market dates: Nov. 21-Dec. 23, 2019
Location: Marktstraße
Helpful hints: Several parking lots are open and charge by the hour; however, due to construction and traffic, arrival by train or ferry is recommended.
Beyond the market: There are several Rhine River cruises scheduled during the holiday season, enabling you to see the valley's castles and ruins while drinking Glühwein. You can also take a cable car up the vineyards for panoramic views.
