Berlin, the German capital, is one of the cities where celebrating Christmas makes the most sense. Indeed, starting from the end of November, the city center is adorned with its most beautiful lights… But that’s not all.
Indeed, the doors of various Christmas markets also open. So, if you plan to visit Berlin at the end of the year, we suggest you discover some of the most beautiful “Weihnachtsmarkt” in the capital.
The most beautiful Christmas markets in Berlin
Like other major cities, Berlin has Christmas markets scattered throughout the city. Here, we propose not to discover all of them, but to focus on the main ones, the ones that are really worth discovering.
WeihnachtsZauber Gendarmenmarkt
Weihnachtszauber at Gendarmenmarkt is one of the most famous Christmas markets in Berlin. Every year, it is estimated that around 600,000 people visit it. It must be said that it is located in a rather good location. Indeed, it is surrounded by:
- The Deutsche Dom;
- The Konzerthaus;
- The Franzozische Friedrichstadtkirche.
On-site, you will find everything that makes a Christmas market a good one. Think, for example, of handmade gifts or various works of art. Naturally, you can buy a glass of mulled wine, chocolate, decorations, and local food (you can also try some at some of the best restaurants in Berlin).
Good to know
There is a very large Christmas tree on-site, you can’t miss it. Also, find out about the shows that are organized there. They are all free!
Breitscheidplatz Christmas Market
The Christmas market around the Kaiser Wilhelm Memorial Church on Breitscheidplatz consists of about a hundred stalls. On-site, you will find Christmas decorations, glass or bronze works, as well as handmade wooden toys.
The smell of mulled wine, cinnamon, and gingerbread rises and fills the air. In addition to these little pleasures, you can go further and enjoy a good steak, a bratwurst, a Berlin-style currywurst, or even a mushroom soup.
Good to know
For young visitors, there are carousels and rides. They may be a bit expensive, which won’t surprise you, but they are open all evening!
Charlottenburg Christmas Market
The Charlottenburg Christmas market is located in front of the palace of the same name. In other words, going there will make you feel like you are part of Berlin’s high society! The entire market is quite classic, but the backdrop makes the experience absolutely unique.
There are more than 250 exhibitors on-site, making it one of the largest Christmas markets in Berlin. They offer everything, including good local and typical hot dishes, as well as funny handmade objects.
For the younger ones, there are also old rides brought out for the occasion. These are… Free. Watch out for the queue, but it can be very interesting, especially if you have a somewhat limited budget for the evening.
Winterwelt am Potsdamer Platz
Winterwelt am Potsdamer Platz is THE most visited Christmas market in Berlin. Indeed, official counts report 2.5 million visitors in December. It must be said that many activities have been prepared to entertain you:
- A sled ride down a small snowy mountain;
- A large ice rink (for beginners and ice skating experts);
- An Eisstockschießen track (a game similar to curling).
In addition to these fun activities, you will find a large number of exhibitors offering, as usual, local handmade products. You will also find food to eat. Good hot dishes and the famous Glühwein (mulled wine).
Spandau
Feeling nostalgic? The old town of Spandau is the perfect setting to fulfill this need. Indeed, the narrow streets of Spandau are paved, and the facades resemble old Alsatian houses.
On-site, you will find numerous stalls, nativity scenes, and animals (sheep, goats, horses). They all contribute to creating an almost… Family atmosphere.
Where to stay in Berlin in December?
Are you planning to discover the German capital in December? We suggest you take a look at our article on the best hotels in Berlin. You will find a selection based on both location and price, to offer you a great experience. In short, there’s no need to travel 30 minutes before fully enjoying the secrets, joys, and Christmas markets of Berlin!
Good to know
Are you traveling on a limited budget? Have you been on the road for a while and Berlin is just a stopover? Don’t hesitate to check out our article on the best hotels in Berlin!
What not to forget before visiting Berlin in winter
Have you booked your plane ticket? This time, it’s certain, you’re going to Germany? We recommend that you bring (really) warm clothes. While Berlin is a pleasant city to live in, winter can be quite harsh. With negative temperatures and snow, December is perfect for the holiday season.
The Christmas markets in Berlin, Germany, in brief
Participating in the Christmas market in the city of Berlin means discovering a new facet of Germany. Depending on the neighborhood you find yourself in, whether it’s Alexanderplatz or elsewhere, you will always have a place to entertain yourself.
Are you leaving from France? A special train allows you to quickly reach Berlin. Once there, you will undoubtedly be amazed by the lights, music, and German festive atmosphere. We highly recommend it.