The Essentials
Most of the Christmas markets in Berlin open in late November and run until late December or early January.
There are over 100 Christmas markets in Berlin. Some of the most popular ones are the Christmas market on Gendarmenmarkt, the Christmas market at Charlottenburg Palace, and the Christmas market in Spandau. Read more…
There are many christmas markets that take place in Berlin. For example the international ones…
Berlin christmas markets are a wonderful way to experience the festive spirit of the German capital. Whether you are looking for traditional crafts, delicious food, or thrilling rides, there is a Christmas market for everyone in Berlin. In this blog post, we will answer some frequently asked questions about the Christmas markets in Berlin and give you some tips on how to enjoy them.
The Most Popular Christmas Markets in Berlin
Christmas is a magical time in Berlin. The city is illuminated by thousands of lights, the air is filled with the aroma of roasted chestnuts and mulled wine, and the streets are buzzing with cheerful crowds.
One of the best ways to immerse yourself in the holiday mood is to visit one of the many Christmas markets that pop up all over the city. From nostalgic to action-packed, from Scandinavian to Japanese, from historic to modern, there is a Christmas market for every taste and preference in Berlin.
If you want to experience the classic German Christmas market, you can’t go wrong with these four options. They are among the most popular and beloved Christmas markets in Berlin, attracting millions of visitors every year.
1. Christmas Market on Gendarmenmarkt
The Gendarmenmarkt Christmas Market is one of the most beautiful and elegant in Berlin. Located on one of the city’s most stunning squares, surrounded by the French and German Cathedrals and the Konzerthaus, this Christmas market offers quality decorations, food and entertainment.
Here you can browse stalls selling handmade crafts, jewelry, candles and ceramics, or enjoy a variety of culinary delights from around the world. There is also a large stage where you can watch live performances by choirs, bands, acrobats and fire artists. The entrance fee is 1 euro per person, but it is well worth it for this unique experience.
Tip: If you want to avoid the crowds, visit the Christmas market on Gendarmenmarkt on weekdays or early in the afternoon.
2. Christmas Market at Charlottenburg Palace
The Christmas Market at Charlottenburg Palace is another must-see for lovers of history and romance. Set against the backdrop of the majestic 18th century palace, this Christmas market offers a cozy and festive atmosphere.
Admire the illuminated facade of the palace as you stroll through the market alleys, where you can find traditional crafts, ornaments, toys and delicacies. You can also visit the palace museum or take a carriage ride through the park. Near the Orangerie, children can have fun on the nostalgic rides or visit Santa Claus in his hut. The entrance to the Christmas market at Charlottenburg Palace is free of charge.
3. Christmas Market in Spandau
The Spandau Christmas Market is one of the largest and oldest in Berlin. It takes place in the historic old town of Spandau, where you can feel like you have stepped back in time. The market has over 250 stalls selling everything from wooden carvings to gingerbread hearts, as well as a Renaissance Fair with medieval costumes and music.
You can also enjoy a variety of food and drink, such as bratwurst, crepes, waffles and hot chocolate. On weekends, there are special events and attractions such as fireworks, concerts and parades.
Good to know: If you want to see something different, visit the Advent Market at Hanff’s Ruh on Sundays. This is a small and charming market with a focus on natural products and organic food.
4. Christmas Market on Breitscheidplatz
One of the most convenient and accessible markets in Berlin is the Breitscheidplatz Christmas Market. It is located in the western center of the city, near the famous Kurfürstendamm shopping street and the Kaiser Wilhelm Memorial Church. This Christmas market has a modern and lively atmosphere, with a large Ferris wheel, skating rink and snow slide.
Find a variety of stalls selling souvenirs, gifts and snacks, or enjoy a glass of mulled wine in one of the heated tents. See the impressive Christmas tree and nativity scene with live animals. The entrance to the Christmas market on Breitscheidplatz is free of charge.
International Christmas Markets in Berlin
If you want to experience different cultures and traditions, you can visit one of the international Christmas markets in Berlin. These Christmas markets offer a unique and diverse perspective on the holiday season, with exotic tastes, colors and sounds.
Lucia Christmas Market at the Kulturbrauerei
Named after the Nordic goddess of light, the Lucia Christmas Market at the Kulturbrauerei is a tribute to the Scandinavian countries. It is held in the courtyard of a former brewery complex in the trendy district of Prenzlauer Berg.
Here you will find stalls selling Nordic specialties such as smoked salmon, elk sausage, glögg (mulled wine) and pepparkakor (gingerbread). Guests can also enjoy live music from Swedish, Norwegian, Finnish and Danish bands, or take part in a workshop to learn how to make traditional crafts or decorations. Children can have fun on the merry-go-round or visit the petting zoo with reindeer and sheep.
Advice: Don’t miss the Lucia Procession in December, when young girls dressed in white and wearing candle crowns sing songs to celebrate the winter solstice.
Japanese Christmas Market at the Malzfabrik
For something a little more exotic and unusual, check out the Japanese Christmas Market at the Malzfabrik. This is a two-day event that showcases Japanese culture and lifestyle.
You can find stalls selling Japanese products such as kimonos, origami, manga, anime and bonsai. Taste delicious Japanese food such as sushi, ramen, mochi, and matcha.
You may also enjoy performances by Japanese artists such as taiko drummers, dancers, singers, and martial artists. There will even be a cosplay contest and a karaoke booth for those who want to have some fun.
Important: Admission to the Japanese Christmas Market at the Malzfabrik is €5 per person.
Dutch Christmas Market at RAW Compound
If you want to enjoy some Dutch treats and delicacies, you can visit the Dutch Christmas Market at RAW Compound. It is a one-day event that takes place in an old train station in Friedrichshain.
You’ll find stalls selling Dutch delicacies like stroopwafels (caramel waffles), poffertjes (mini pancakes), oliebollen (doughnuts), and cheese. You can also drink some Heineken beer or Jenever (gin) to warm up. You can also listen to some Dutch music or play a game of sjoelbak (shuffleboard).
Polish Christmas Market at the Kranzler Eck
If you want to discover some Polish traditions and customs, you can visit the Polish Christmas Market at Kranzler Eck. This is a three-day event that takes place in front of a shopping mall in Charlottenburg. Here you can find stalls selling Polish products such as amber jewelry, pottery, wooden toys and books.
You can also taste some typical Polish food such as pierogi (dumplings), bigos (stew), kielbasa (sausage) and makowiec (poppy seed cake). You might also enjoy some Polish music and dance performances or watch a puppet show. Admission to the Polish Christmas Market at Kranzler Eck is free.
Adventurous Christmas Markets in Berlin
If you are looking for some excitement and fun, you can visit one of the adventurous Christmas markets in Berlin. These Christmas markets offer a variety of attractions and activities to get your adrenaline pumping.
Medieval Christmas Market at RAW Compound
The Medieval Christmas Market at RAW Compound is one of the most authentic and atmospheric in Berlin. It takes place in an industrial area in Friedrichshain, where you can feel like you have traveled back to the Middle Ages.
This Christmas market has a rustic and cozy feel, with wooden huts, straw bales and torches. Visit stalls selling medieval crafts, clothing, weapons, and jewelry, or enjoy hearty food and drink such as mead, bread, and soup.
There are also performances by jugglers, fire-eaters, sword fighters and musicians. For those who want to see some action, there is also a knight tournament and a witch trial. The entry to the Medieval Christmas Market at the RAW Compound is €2 per person.
Winterworld at Alexa
The Winterworld at the Alexa is one of the most exciting and fun places in Berlin. It is located on the roof of a shopping mall at Alexanderplatz, where you can enjoy a panoramic view of the city. This Christmas market has a modern and adventurous theme, with a variety of rides and attractions.
You can find stalls selling souvenirs, gifts and food, or enjoy a ride on the roller coaster, bumper cars or the giant swing. You can also try your luck at the shooting gallery or the wheel of fortune. There is also a snow tubing track where you can slide down on inflatable tubes.
Tip: If you want to save some money, visit the Winter World at Alexa on Mondays or Tuesdays. There are special discounts on the rides and attractions on these days.
The Best Christmas Markets in Berlin
Berlin christmas markets are a great way to celebrate the holiday season in the German capital. They offer something for everyone, whether you are looking for tradition, culture, or adventure.
You can visit different Christmas markets depending on your mood and preference, or explore them all if you have enough time. No matter which one you choose, you will surely have a memorable and enjoyable experience.
