Where to Stay in Frankfurt for Christmas Markets: 4 Best areas

Hi guys, on my website, I already wrote articles about staying in Frankfurt for first-timers (I will put the links to them at the end of this article). In today’s article, I will help you to find the best places to stay in Frankfurt for Christmas Markets.

I will provide you with a list of what I believe are the best areas to stay in Frankfurt for Christmas Markets, along with a helpful map. I’ll also share where I stayed in Frankfurt and recommend some of the best hotels.

The Frankfurt Christmas Market, also known as “Frankfurter Weihnachtsmärkte” in German, is one of the largest Christmas markets in all of Germany. These markets are an integral part of the city’s holiday traditions and draw visitors from near and far. 

The main and most famous Christmas market is the Frankfurt Christmas Market (Frankfurter Weihnachtsmarkt) located in the historic Römer square. Other locations can be found at St Paul’s Square, Hauptwache, Friedrich-Stoltze-Square, and the Main Quay (Mainkai).

The date of the Frankfurt Christmas market in 2023/ 2024 is from 27th of November to 21 December. It is open from 10:00 am to  9:00 pm from Mondays to Saturdays, and from 11:00 am to 9:00 pm on Sundays.

The Frankfurt Christmas Markets offer a traditional and festive atmosphere with beautifully decorated wooden stalls, twinkling lights, and a vast array of holiday decorations and gifts. The markets typically have a central Christmas tree, which is often illuminated in a ceremony.

You can enjoy a wide variety of traditional German Christmas foods and drinks at the markets. Popular treats include roasted chestnuts, gingerbread cookies, marzipan sweets, and bratwurst (sausages). There are also mulled wine, called “Gluhwein,” and other warm beverages to keep the winter chill at bay.

The Frankfurt Christmas Markets are known for their artisanal and handcrafted goods. You can find beautifully crafted ornaments, gifts, and souvenirs, as well as regional and international crafts

These markets often feature live music, carolers, and various entertainment options to keep the festive spirit alive. You might even catch a performance of a nativity play. In some markets, there are ice skating rinks where you can enjoy some winter sports and have fun on the ice.

Most Christmas markets, including the Frankfurt Christmas Markets, are free to enter. You can wander through the stalls and soak in the holiday atmosphere without any cost.

Frankfurt’s Römer, the town hall, adds a touch of historical significance to the markets. The building itself is steeped in history, dating back to the 15th century, and serves as a backdrop to the festivities.

You can reach Frankfurt by air and train. The Frankfurt Airport is one of the largest and busiest airports in Europe. From the airport, you can easily reach the city center by taking the S-Bahn (suburban train) lines S8 or S9, which run directly to Frankfurt’s main train station (Hauptbahnhof).

If you’re coming from other parts of Germany or nearby European cities, the Frankfurt Hauptbahnhof is a major hub. High-speed trains like the ICE (InterCityExpress) connect Frankfurt with other major German cities and European destinations.

Once you are in the city, you can easily get around by public transportation, including trams, buses, and S-Bahn trains. The city’s efficient transport network can take you to various Christmas markets throughout the city.

Where to stay in Frankfurt for Christmas Markets?

Map of the best areas to stay in Frankfurt for Christmas Markets
Map of the best areas to stay in Frankfurt for Christmas Markets

The best areas to stay in Frankfurt for Christmas Markets are Altstadt (Old Town), Sachsenhausen, Westend, Bahnhofsviertel (Hauptbahnhof), and Ostend. These areas offer plenty of accommodations for all budgets and offer easy access to all Christmas Markets in the city.

Altstadt is a prime location in Frankfurt for exploring the Christmas markets, including the ones at Römerberg, St Paul’s Square, Hauptwache, Friedrich-Stoltze-Square, and Mainkai. If you book hotels in Old Town, you will be located within walking distance of all major christmas markets.

Sachsenhausen hosts its own Christmas market, known for its apple wine and local cuisine. It is also well-connected to public transportation, making it a great base to visit the major markets in Old town.

Westend is a more upscale and residential district, but it’s not far from the city center and the Christmas markets. It offers a quieter atmosphere while still being close to the festive activities.

Bahnhofsviertel and the area around Frankfurt’s main train station, Hauptbahnhof, is a convenient choice for visitors arriving by train. It also has a lively nightlife scene.

Ostend/Bornheimer offers budget-friendly accommodation, you can find many good value for money hotels in Ostend district. They are well-connected to public transportation, so you’ll have easy access to all markets.

I didn’t visit Frankfurt during Christmas time, but when I visited the city, I stayed in the Ostend district at the 4-star INNSiDE by Meliá Frankfurt Ostend. It is a great for money hotel, conveniently located close to public transportation, so you’ll have easy access to the old town and the city’s major christmas markets.

Below is a map of the popular areas in Frankfurt for Christmas Markets.

4 Best areas to stay in Frankfurt for Christmas Markets:

1. Altstadt (Old Town)

Old Town is one of the most popular places to stay in Frankfurt for Christmas Markets, especially if you want to be in the heart of the action. Old Town has the highest concentration of christmas markets, making it easy to visit them on foot.

Römer Square (Römerplatz)is the heart of the Old Town and one of the most iconic places in Frankfurt. It is home to the Römer, a medieval building complex that has served as Frankfurt’s city hall for centuries.

The Römer is a series of beautifully decorated, half-timbered buildings that are a symbol of Frankfurt. It has been the city’s administrative center since the 15th century and is often used for official events and ceremonies. The main Christmas market is held here.

St. Bartholomew’s Cathedral (Kaiserdom St. Bartholomäus) is one of the most important landmarks in the city. It was the site of numerous imperial coronations in the Holy Roman Empire.

Other cultural attractions are the Old St. Nicholas Church (Alte Nikolaikirche), Eschenheimer Tower, and Historical Museum Frankfurt, featuring a wide range of artifacts, photographs, and documents.

While enjoying the festive atmosphere, you can explore Zeil Street, one of Frankfurt’s main shopping streets and is easily accessible from the Old Town. It’s a bustling area with shops, restaurants, and entertainment options.

The Old Town is located along the banks of the River Main, making it a picturesque place for a leisurely stroll along the riverbanks. You can also take boat tours to enjoy scenic views of the city.

Best places to stay in Frankfurt in Altstadt (Old Town) for Christmas Markets:

  • Luxury ($$$): JW Marriott Hotel Frankfurt, great 5-star hotel, centrally located in Frankfurt City Centre (Old Town), easy access to major christmas markets in the city including the one at the Römer Square. It is also close to Zeil shopping street, Hauptwache U-Bahn and S-Bahn Station.
  • Mid-range ($$): Ruby Louise Hotel Frankfurt, great 4-star hotel, convenient located in the heart of Innenstadt, easy access to major sights such as the christmas market at the Hauptwache, as well as English Theatre, Goethe House, and the Cathedral of St. Bartholomew.
  • Budget ($): Motel One Frankfurt-Römer, this is a very popular 3-star hotel in central Old Town of Frankfurt, offering easy access to all major christmas markets in the city on foot. It is also close to Willy-Brandt-Platz U-bahn station, and numerous tram/bus stops nearby.
MORE HOTEL DEALS IN ALTSTADT (OLD TOWN)

2. Sachsenhausen

Sachsenhausen, located south of the river, has a more relaxed and local vibe. The Sachsenhausen Christmas Market is famous for its apple wine, traditional cider houses (Ebbelwoi pubs), and rustic charm.

Staying in Sachsenhausen not only offers easy access to all christmas markets in Old Town but it also has a Christmas market at the Goetheturm tower. It is small but you can still find everything you could wish to find such as traditional yeast dumplings, apple juice, and mulled wine.

In Sachsenhausen, you can explore Ebbelwoi, which is the district’s old quarter, or cider district. It is a lively area with vibrant nightlife where you can try apple wine.

Sachsenhausen offers easy access to the Museumsufer complex. It is home to the Städel Art Museum, Museum of World Cultures,  Museum of Ancient Sculpture, German Architecture Museum, German Film Museum, Frankfurt Archaeological Museum, Liebieghaus, and Museum of Applied Art.

Best places to stay in Frankfurt in Sachsenhausen for Christmas Markets:

  • Mid-range ($$): Libertine Lindenberg, great 4-star hotel, located in Sachsenhausen, easy access to public transportation for visiting the christmas markets. It also has Good breakfast according to guests’ reviews and Laundry services.
  • Mid-range ($$): Star Apart Hotel Sachsenhausen, popular accommodation located close to  Eiserner Steg, and Frankfurt (Main) South station.
  • Budget ($): Hotel Hübler, this is a great 3-star great value for money hotel located right next to the river main, easy access to the old town by public transportation. Also close to Städel Museum, German Film Museum, Museum Applied Art, and Liebieghaus.
MORE HOTEL DEALS IN SACHSENHAUSEN

3. Bahnhofsviertel (Hauptbahnhof Central Station)

Bahnhofsviertel is home to Frankfurt’s main train station (Hauptbahnhof), which provides excellent transportation connections. This makes it easy to access various Christmas markets around the city, as you can take trains, trams, or buses to different neighborhoods.

Bahnhofsviertel is adjacent to Frankfurt’s city center, so you’ll be within walking distance of many Christmas markets, including the one at the Römer.

This area is known for its diverse dining options, including international restaurants and cafes. You’ll have a wide range of choices for dining when you’re not at the Christmas markets.

Bahnhofsviertel has a lively and cosmopolitan atmosphere, making it a convenient hub for exploring the city. During the Christmas market season, the area becomes even more festive, with holiday decorations and markets adding to the buzz.

Best places to stay in Frankfurt in Bahnhofsviertel for Christmas Markets:

  • Luxury ($$$): Roomers, Frankfurt, a Member of Design Hotels, 5-star hotel centrally located in Frankfurt, within a short distance from Frankfurt Central Station and the River Main. It also offers fabulous breakfast, and you’ll have easy access to major Christmas Markets on foot and by public transportation.
  • Mid-range ($$): IntercityHotel Frankfurt Hauptbahnhof Süd, 4-star hotel situated in Gutleutviertel, conveniently located within a short distance from Frankfurt Central Station. 
  • Budget ($): Hotel Cristall – Frankfurt City, popular 3-star accommodation located right next to Frankfurt Central Station, offering easy access to the Frankfurt Trade Fair and Frankfurt Airport. Of course, you’ll also be close to Christmas markets.
MORE HOTEL DEALS IN BAHNHOFSVIERTEL

4. Westend

Westend is an upscale residential district in Frankfurt, known for its beautiful architecture, green spaces, and cultural attractions. While it’s not directly in the heart of the Christmas market action, it can still be an excellent choice for a stay during the Christmas market season. 

Westend is relatively close to the city center, and you can easily reach the downtown Christmas markets, on foot or by public transportation.

Westend offers a quieter and more residential atmosphere compared to some other central districts. It can provide a peaceful retreat from the bustling city center after a day of exploring the Christmas markets.

The district is home to cultural attractions like the Palmengarten (botanical garden) and Alte Oper (Old Opera House), which may host special events during the holiday season.

Best places to stay in Frankfurt in Westend for Christmas Markets:

  • Luxury ($$$): Frankfurt Marriott Hotel, this is the only 5-star quality hotel in Westend, very close to the Frankfurt Messe exhibition grounds and the Festhalle/Messe Underground Station.
  • Mid-range ($$): Holiday Inn Frankfurt – Alte Oper, an IHG Hotel, great 4-star hotel located between the elegant Westend district and the lively Bahnhofsviertel district, easy access to train for christmas markets. Within walking distance to the Frankfurt Messe Convention Centre, Main tower, Old Town, and the central shopping district.
  • Budget ($): Hotel Villa Florentina, great 3-star accommodation located on Westendstraße, within a short walk from the exhibition grounds, financial district, and Alte Oper opera house. Also easy access to the nearby S-Bahn station, for easy access to the airport.
MORE HOTEL DEALS IN WESTEND

5. Ostend

Ostend is a growing and diverse neighborhood located just east of the Old town, close to Frankfurt Zoo and Bornheim. It offers an alternative yet intriguing choice for staying during the Christmas market season. 

Ostend provides you with an authentic Frankfurt experience. You can find very good value for money hotels in this area while still having easy access to the city center.

Best places to stay in Frankfurt in Ostend for Christmas Markets:

  • Mid-range ($$): INNSiDE by Meliá Frankfurt Ostend, good value for money 4-star hotel, conveniently located close to Frankfurt(Main) East Station, offering easy access to the old town and its christmas market. It also has a 24-hour front desk and very good breakfast.
  • Mid-range ($$): Scandic Frankfurt Hafenpark, another 4-star good value for money accommodation, located in the Ostend district, only 5 mins walk from Train and subway station.
  • Budget ($): Hampton By Hilton Frankfurt City Centre East, 3-star good value for money according to nearly 6000 guest’s reviews, easy access to public transportation to visit major sights such as the Eiserner Steg, Goethe House, and Römerberg.  
MORE HOTEL DEALS IN OSTEND

In conclusion, Altstadt/Old Town, Sachsenhausen, Bahnhofsviertel, Westend, and Ostend are the best places to stay in Frankfurt for Christmas Markets. They all offer easy access to Christmas Markets on foot or by train, so you can choose any hotels in these districts that suit your budget and preferences.

You can continue reading about Frankfurt and other destinations in Germany in these articles:

I hope you enjoyed my article and find it informative and helpful. If you have any questions or would like to share your thoughts, please don’t hesitate to leave a comment below. Your feedback is invaluable and helps me continue to create more quality travel guides.

About Author: Ocean Cameron

I'm Ocean, founder and main editor of travelhotelexpert.com. I’m a passionate traveler who specializes in uncovering the best hotels and locations in every city, especially for first-timers, all without the need for a car.

Disclosure: This page contains affiliate links. This means that, at absolutely no additional cost to you, I'll earn a small commission if you click through and purchase something I've recommended. I only recommend products that I use myself or firmly believe in. Thank you!

Leave a Comment