The most beautiful Christmas markets

There is probably no more beautiful place for a Christmas market in the whole of Christmas country than around the town hall in Pirna. Inspired by the Italian painter Canaletto, who honoured the sandstone town in 11 famous vedute, the Canaletto Market, Pirna's Christmas market, has been held here since 2013. It is one of the few markets in this country that remains open after the holidays. For some, the Canaletto Market, known for its unique lighting concept and wonderful town hall projections, is still an insider tip. For others, especially families, it has long been one of the most beautiful Christmas markets in Saxony.

Date: 25 November to 23 December 2025 & 27 December to 30 December 2025

Find out more about the Christmas market in Pirna

‘Königstein – a winter fairy tale’

It is considered one of the most beautiful not only in Saxony, but also in Germany: the Christmas market at Königstein Fortress. The elaborately staged spectacle high above the Elbe River attracts visitors with traditional goods, old crafts, handmade music, puppet theatre and real animals in the Christmas nativity scene. Part of the market takes place in underground sandstone vaults.

Date: all 4 Advent weekends (Saturday & Sunday)

Find out more about the Christmas market in Königstein

The stately Saxon Weesenstein Castle in the Müglitz Valley – once home to proud noble families and the secret residence of the Saxon royal family – provides the picturesque backdrop for the Weesenstein Castle Christmas. Traditionally, Weesenstein Castle invites visitors to a romantic market on the first Sunday of Advent. All kinds of Christmas items – small treasures and delicacies – are offered by craftsmen and traders from the region as well as Weesenstein's restaurants. The range extends from Christmas floristry, jewellery and fabrics to homemade Christmas stollen and delicious mulled wine. Whether you're looking for classic bratwurst or roasted almonds, there's something for everyone here. Would you like to fill a few more Santa boots? You're sure to find what you're looking for here!

Date: 29.11.-30.11.25

Find out more about the Christmas market at Weesenstein Castle

On the first Sunday of Advent, the Hohnstein Christmas market opens its doors at 11 a.m. Along Rathausstraße, Rathausplatz, Marktplatz and at Hohnstein Castle, numerous stalls invite visitors to enjoy a Christmas stroll. Local clubs and restaurateurs provide food and drink. Local culture is on display on the three stages. It is probably the most romantic Christmas market in Saxon Switzerland: picturesque alleys, wonderful lighting and a castle towering majestically over the small town. You will be missing out on something on the first Sunday of Advent if you don't make your way to Hohnstein. The market is open until 6 p.m. on the first Sunday of Advent. Admission is free.

Date: 30.11.25

Find out more about the Christmas market in Hohnstein

The Sebnitz Tannert Christmas is dedicated to one of the most important paper cut artists of the 19th century and a unique form of folk art. Adolf Tannert lived and worked in Sebnitz. His paper cuts have always been used as decorative images for the Sebnitz shadow plays, which can be purchased at the market. Similar to a Christmas pyramid, figures made from paper cut-outs rotate in round, handmade towers made of wood and paper, displaying moving, illuminated scenes. The Advent market is decorated with an oversized version of this shadow play.

Date: 4–7 December 2025

Find out more about the Christmas market in Sebnitz

Enjoy the magic of Christmas with carol singing, culinary delicacies, gift shopping, a bonfire, crafts and, of course, Santa Claus. By candlelight, you can stroll through the spa town of Gohrisch to the various light stations, bringing your own lantern if you like. We want to have a wonderful day with you and look forward to your visit.

Date: 06.12.25

Find out more about the Christmas market in Gohrisch

Winter walk meets Christmas magic

Look forward to our atmospheric Advent stroll in the heart of wintry Bad Schandau! Creative craft activities for young and old, handmade gift ideas and live music await you, creating a real Christmas atmosphere. There will also be mulled wine, waffles and many other winter treats – perfect for enjoying and lingering.

Date: 06.12.25

More about the Advent stroll in Bad Schandau

The 17th-century Baroque castle provides an atmospheric setting for what is probably the smallest Advent market in Saxon Switzerland, which was started as a private initiative by friends of the castle. Now in its third year, the event once again features lovingly designed stalls and a host of touching Christmas moments.

Date: 13 December 2025

Find out more about the Christmas market at Prossen Castle

Countless lights shine in the twin spa town of Bad Gottleuba-Berggießhübel. In the 19th century, the region was an important iron ore mining area. The highlight in Berggießhübel is therefore the annual traditional miners' parade. In Bad Gottleuba, traders invite visitors to take a romantic stroll amid the scent of mulled wine and candlelight, while the stage programme in the market square spreads pre-Christmas cheer. For the first time, another small, cosy Christmas market will take place on the 4th weekend of Advent in the idyllic district of Bienhof.

Dates: 1st Advent: Bienhof I 07.12.25 Berggießhübel I 14.12.25 Bad Gottleuba

Advent in the miniature park ‘Kleine Sächsische Schweiz’ is a time full of enchantment and magic. The lovingly decorated park is illuminated by a wonderful sea of lights. Colourful lights sparkle and flash everywhere, and children can go on a discovery tour with the park railway. A Willi Wichtel quiz, Advent crafts, Christmas treats, Christmas colour games and rides on the Christmas Express are further highlights.

Dates: 6–7 December 2025 | 13–14 December 2025 | 20–21 December 2025 | 27–30 December 2025

More about the Christmas magic at the miniature park

The servants are busy with Christmas preparations: the castle is being decked out for Advent and beautifully illuminated, as the royal family has announced their visit. Many a legend surrounding Weesenstein Castle is whispered among the maids and servants. And even now, strange things are happening in the castle. Rumour has it that even Uckermann's treasure is hidden somewhere in the castle. Look forward to an enchantingly decorated castle and an atmospheric Advent experience combining mysticism and romance.

Dates: 25 November 2025 to 11 January 2026

More about the haunting under the Christmas tree