Christmas Markets in Berlin – Germany – All You Need To Know

Christmas Markets in Berlin in Germany, are among the best ones in Europe.

That’s because many Christmas traditions – in particular the Christmas tree as we know it, and Christmas bulbs – are a German invention. Therefore, the most iconic Christmas markets are probably the German ones and you really should see one of these at least once in a lifetime!

Germans take the festive decorations to the next level. Expect extremely rich illuminated and decorated stalls looking like huts of fairies, overloaded with sparkling lights, with great variety of structures and enormous range of products offered.

Gifts to buy on Christmas Markets in Berlin

The most typical gifts to buy will be:

• Typical wooden nutcrackers as in the photo above – in Germany they are deemed to bring good luck!
• Traditional German Christmas tree decorations, especially glass bulbs (invented in Germany) and wooden items to hang on the tree.
• Gingerbread hearts.

Read all the best advice on typical German products in our article about Shopping in Berlin.

Typical drinks to taste on Christmas Markets in Berlin

One thing surely can’t be missed: the most world-famous Christmastime drink: Glühwein – mulled wine – hot wine with spices and sometimes fruit. It is a must to warm up the German winter! In Germany, unlike in most other countries except for Austria, you can find mulled wine in various flavours (orange, plum, ginger etc.).

Typically, in Germany every year a new edition of city-specific mugs for mulled wine is released, so you can make a collection if you go to different cities.

You also need to try egg punch and excellent German hot chocolate to warm you up – expect all the best!

Typical sweets to taste on Christmas Markets in Berlin

Try wonderful traditional gingerbread figures.

Moreover, look for typical cookies such as:

• Schmalzkuchen / Schmalzgreben – lard cakes, type of small diamond-shaped donuts without filling
• Germknödel – a German (and Austrian) fluffy yeast dumpling, filled with spicy plum marmalade and served with poppy seeds and butter (photo above).

The Best Christmas Markets in Berlin

Berlin boasts dozens of Christmas markets! Since the city is huge, the markets are organized in many neighbourhoods. If the time of your visit is limited, you should choose which ones to see. We recommend them in the order presented below.

Here is the quick guide to the most beautiful Christmas Markets in Berlin.

1.1 Christmas Market in Charlottenburg Palace in Berlin

Over 250 stalls with food and Christmas decorations in a lovely setting of a castle. A very romantic spot to enjoy the magic of Christmas in a couple.

Address: Schloss Charlottenburg, Berlin

Open: 25 November to 26 December 2019

Mon-Thu 2 pm – 10 pm, Fri-Sun 12 pm – 10 pm, 25th & 26th December 12 pm – 8 pm

Closed on Christmas Eve (24th December)

1.2 Winterwelt in Potsdamer Platz in Berlin

Its name means Winter World and it’s the market that opens as the first one and remains open for the longest time, putting you in the Christmas mood. The highlights include riding the Europe’s largest toboggan, don’t miss it! There is also curling and ice-skating rank.

Here you will find both German and Austrian Christmas delicacies – you will be charmed by the traditional Austrian peasant hut.

Address: Potsdamer Platz, Berlin

Open: 25 November to 26 December 2019

Daily 10 am – 10 pm

1.3 The Berliner Weinachtszeit in Rotes Rathaus in Berlin

This lovely Christmas market is set in the frame of St Mary’s church and the Red Town Hall. You will surely notice the huge pyramid of lights and enormous Christmas tree, and traditional organ music. Enjoy the variety of artisan products and great food – always waskhed down with Glühwein!

Address: Rathausstraße 15, Berlin

Open: 25 November to 29 December 2019

1.4 WeinachtsZauber at Gendarmenmarkt in Berlin

This market is located in a beautiful setting of the monuments surrounding it: the Deutscher Dom, the Franzozische Friedrichstadtkirche and the Konzerthaus. It’s a classic and many Berliners claim it’s the most beautiful one. The magical atmosphere is enhanced by choirs singing carols every day.

Address: Gendarmenmarkt, Berlin

Open: 25 November to 31 December 2019

Daily 11 am – 10 pm
24 December until 6 pm

31 December until 1 am – it closes with a great displays of fireworks!

1.5 Christmas Market Spandau in Berlin

It’s the biggest Christmas market in Berlin and it will surprise you with a medieval market featuring live animals! It has a lot of charm and it’s certainly worth a visit.

Address: Altstadt Spandau, Markt 1, Berlin

Open: 25 November – 22 December 2019

Sun-Thu 11 am – 8 pm, Fri-Sat 11 am – 10 pm

Get into the Christmas (markets) Mood!

Which Are The Best Christmas Markets in Europe (2023)?

To get into the Christmas mood, watch the video featuring major Christmas markets in Berlin.

If you have any questions or comments, write them below and if you like the article – share it!