For many of the people of Rhineland-Palatinate
Advent is the most wonderful time of the year
As the fragrance of Christmas spices gently creeps through the village
the streets and squares of the picture-postcard old towns gradually fill with life and the historic façades are bathed in twinkling lights
then it is time for the Christmas markets in our wonderfully varied state to open their doors
often prepared by the local winemakers themselves
and thousands of years of history add up to create some unique historical settings within Rhineland-Palatinate
Among the absolute highlights of the run-up to Christmas are events held against the impressive backdrops of the magnificent buildings across our region
and we have put together a small selection of the most charming Christmas markets at our castles and palaces:
On the third weekend of Advent, you can enjoy ‘Christmas at the Castle’ at the Reichsburg Castle
which towers high above the Moselle in Cochem
A climb up through the historic old town takes you first to the outer bailey
where you are greeted by a shepherd in period costume
He will lead you through the real-life Nativity scene
a lovingly crafted re-enactment of the Christmas story featuring lay actors and real animals
as you gently stroll past the different stalls
perhaps picking up a little treat or two and enjoying the wonderful views of the twinkling lights on the ships and the festive decorations in the old town
with the water and the steep slopes transforming the Moselle valley into a breathtaking sea of lights
View of the illuminated Reichsburg Castle in Cochem in the evening
But the life of a castle lord is not just about the courtyard, it is often a glimpse behind the centuries-old walls, which gives you a real feel for the life of the noblemen who once lived there. At Rheinstein Castle in the Middle Rhine Valley, visitors can explore the interior of the romantic palace. The ‘Magical Christmas Castle’ opens its doors throughout the Advent period
sending you on a trip back in time to the world of daring knights
The fairy-tale world in the knights’ hall is brought to life with hundreds of glittering lights
and meanwhile the squire proves his mettle by fighting the dragon on the terrace
you are treated to fine delicacies from the Romantic Rhine
View of the "Magical Christmas Castle" Burg Rheinstein in Trechtingshausen
Further north along the Rhine, the picturesque Arenfels Castle sits atop the hills above the village of Bad Hönningen. You can visit the ‘Romantic Christmas Market’ held here every weekend in Advent
Your stroll around the festive forecourt and through the castle is accompanied by various musicians providing a perfect Christmas ambience
and at most of the stalls you can watch talented craftsmen and old-fashioned tradesmen going about their delicate work
The blacksmith and the turner even ply their trades against the stunning backdrop of the Rhine
What could be better than soaking up the atmosphere with a steaming loaf of bread and perhaps warming your hands with a glass or two of mulled wine
Romantic Christmas market at Arenfels Castle in Bad Hönningen
One of the highlights is the Nativity scene in the costumes and language of the Hohenstaufen period
The Christmas story is told in Latin and Middle High German
the narrator is happy to translate everything into normal German
The snow-covered Satzvey Castle in Mechernich at Castle Christmas
colourful floristry and regional honey products are offered for sale at pretty stalls
you can enjoy the magical atmosphere of the illuminated castle ruins and stroll past the living nativity scene
the Christmas castle singers or go in search of St Nicholas - he always has a gift ready for young and old!
Christmas-lit Niederburg Castle in the evening during Manderscheid Castle Christmas
The modern open-air stage features a changing daily programme of musicians
artists and actors until late into the evening
As you wander through the stands of local crafts and foodie treats
you may find yourselves involved in one of the spontaneous events around the Malakoffturm tower
You are guided through the castle walls by the light of a lantern and given an in-depth insight into the background and history of the Burgkirche in Ingelheim
Visitors at the Ingelheim Christmas Market at the Burgkirche
Our Christmas events include Christmas markets
Let yourself be impressed by the unique views of the winter landscapes of our holiday regions and discover our tour tips for your winter hiking pleasure here
Discover more than 30 indoor offers from museums to spas that are certified as "Tourism for All"
This guarantees a dry and warm excursion for everyone
Cosy alleyways with small cafés and shops to stroll through
historic buildings on historic squares and picturesque promenades - discover small old towns on short walks
Find out here in which 'Tourism for All' certified wineries and vinotheques you can taste excellent wines even with a walker
Start the year with a short hike and recharge your batteries in the fresh air after the holidays - from walking trails to hiking tours