I'll be in Hamburg for 3.5 day from Nov 29. First time in Hamburg so plan to spend most of the time sightseeing there. But would like to do a half-day or so side trip to either Bremen or Lübeck Christmas markets, both of which look quite picturesque. Opinions on which one is better in terms of atmosphere? I don't expect much difference in terms of vendor offerings, so not as interested in specific merch/food/drink. And would Thursday be less crowded than Friday or Saturday?
Lübeck has a reputation for Christmas time.
ABSOLUTELY BREMEN. The main market is nice, but there is also a really cool Medeival market along the harbor. But the real treat, the thing that truly sets Bremen apart, is the Schnoor. There is nothing like Christmas in the Schnoor.
We go to Lübeck most years. It is absolutely lovely. But we have never missed Bremen.
Thanks all! So many little markets in that Lübeck link, MarkK. I think that's won me over. Though I'm also now interested in the Schnoor in Bremen. Really should have booked an extra day, but perhaps I can still make it work. Or just have a reason for another trip!
Just to give Bremen a fair chance on this criteria: they have also multiple Christmas markets in Bremen and surrounding villages. The Schachte-Zauber market seems to be nice. I have never been there.
btw: on the Lübeck markets you will find traditionally also guests from Scandinavia.
Have a good journey!