Alt-Rothenburger Reiterlesmarkt
One of Germany's oldest and most atmospheric Christmas markets in the medieval old town
About Reiterlesmarkt
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A Christmas Market with Over 500 Years of History
The Alt-Rothenburger Reiterlesmarkt is one of the oldest Christmas markets in Germany – its origins date back to the 15th century. The setting is the world-famous, perfectly preserved medieval old town of Rothenburg ob der Tauber in the Ansbach district of Middle Franconia, Bavaria. During Advent, the entire old town is festively illuminated.
The Legend of the Reiterle
The market is named after the 'Reiterle' – a mysterious rider figure from ancient Germanic sagas. Once considered a sinister messenger between worlds, over the centuries it transformed into a friendly figure of light, who rides majestically on horseback across the market square at the market's opening to welcome visitors.
61 Stalls in a Historic Setting
Between the Market Square, Green Market, Church Square, and the Town Hall's courtyard of light, 61 stalls offer Christmas decorations, handicrafts, gingerbread, the famous Rothenburg 'Schneeballen' (snowballs), and mulled wine. Brass ensembles from the region play daily on the stage at the Green Market. School classes and youth groups showcase ever-changing Advent windows in the Town Hall daily.
Rothenburg ob der Tauber at Advent
The town on the Romantic Road is one of Bavaria's most visited destinations. During Advent, the old town, enclosed by its town walls and towers, transforms into a fairytale backdrop that attracts visitors from all over the world annually.
Reiterlesmarkt — edition 2026
The Reiterlesmarkt 2026 runs from November 20 to December 23, 2026. It is open Sunday to Thursday from 11:00 AM to 7:00 PM and Friday and Saturday from 11:00 AM to 8:00 PM; on Totensonntag (November 22), the market remains closed or opens only in the afternoon.
At the opening, the Reiterle rides majestically on horseback across the market square to greet visitors, and the mayor lights the large Christmas tree. Between the Market Square, Green Market, Church Square, and the Town Hall's courtyard of light, 61 stalls offer Christmas decorations, Schneeballen, gingerbread, handicrafts, and mulled wine.
Programme Reiterlesmarkt 2026
Highlights 2026
- November 20 — Opening with festive address and the Reiterle's arrival
- Daily brass ensembles from the region on the stage at the Green Market
- Daily changing Advent windows in the Town Hall, designed by school classes and youth groups
- Illumination of the entire old town during Advent
- 61 stalls between the Market Square, Green Market, and Church Square
Highlights Reiterlesmarkt 2026
- One of Germany's oldest Christmas markets (since the 15th century)
- Arrival of the legendary Reiterle on horseback
- 61 stalls in a medieval setting
- Rothenburg Schneeballen and mulled wine
- Daily brass music at the Green Market
Prices Reiterlesmarkt 2026
Admission to the Reiterlesmarkt is free. Food, drinks, and goods are sold at the stalls.
Practical information — Reiterlesmarkt
Getting There
Rothenburg ob der Tauber is located on the Romantic Road in the Ansbach district. Arrive by train via Steinach (near Rothenburg ob der Tauber) with a connecting service; arrive by car via the A7 motorway (Rothenburg exit). Parking is available outside the town walls; the old town is pedestrian-only.
Opening Hours
Sunday to Thursday 11:00 AM – 7:00 PM, Friday and Saturday 11:00 AM – 8:00 PM. Closed on Totensonntag (Sunday of the Dead).
Admission
Admission to the Reiterlesmarkt is free.
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Travel to this festival
Reserva tu tren o autobús para llegar a Reiterlesmarkt al mejor precio.
Sponsored link
Where it takes place Reiterlesmarkt
Marktplatz, Grüner Markt & Kirchplatz
Marktplatz, 91541 Rothenburg ob der Tauber