10 Exciting Christmas Markets In Berlin Germany 2023
With over 80 Christmas markets spread across Berlin’s diverse neighborhoods, deciding where to go can be tough without a guide.
Having personally wandered the stalls and sampled the seasonal specialties at most of Berlin’s Christmas Markets over many years, we can confidently direct you toward the best ones that capture the holiday spirit.
Keep reading to discover the must-see Christmas markets, the tastiest treats, the coolest products, the fun activities, and some helpful tips when you are at these classic German Christmas Markets.
Top Christmas Markets In Berlin
The holiday season is fast approaching, and one of the best ways to get into the Christmas spirit in Berlin is by visiting the magical Christmas markets that pop up in different neighborhoods across the city.
You get to eat, drink, shop, listen to carolers or choirs, and enjoy the company of friends and family during the holidays here in Christmas Markets.
We have the perfect Christmas markets for you to visit if you prefer those that are family-friendly, where kids will surely be delighted with sweet treats and old-world charm.
And if you are seeking a more traditional European-style Christmas celebration, we’ve got you covered.
For something truly unique, Berlin also has several quirky, themed holiday markets with unexpected gifts and festivities.
No matter what brings you to Berlin this Christmas, you’re sure to feel that holiday spirit sparkling throughout the city.
Family-Friendly Christmas Markets In Berlin
Berlin’s world-famous Christmas markets, with their twinkling lights, festive stalls, and joyful atmosphere, become even more enchanting for families with their little ones.
You and your family can enjoy kid-friendly rides and activities, benefit from easy stroller accessibility, and indulge in delights options suitable for little ones.
We’ve curated a list of the most enchanting and family-friendly Christmas markets in and around Berlin.
Our goal is to share the festive spirit while offering all the details you need to plan a stress-free and joy-filled holiday visit with your loved ones.
Christmas Market at Charlottenburg Palace
The Christmas Market at Charlottenburg Palace in Berlin is a cool spot for families during winter. And we gotta say, it’s totally one of our top favorites.
You’ve got this beautiful 18th-century palace, all lit up with colorful lights, giving off a festive vibe.
This market is famous for its romantic feel, thanks to the palace once being home to Sophie Charlotte.
It is split into two parts: smaller stalls inside the palace courtyard and a bigger zone outside with row upon row of wooden chalets.
You can expect around 250 stalls selling Christmas stuff, handmade crafts, and nativity figures.
It’s not just about arts and crafts; there are also some comfort German foods like marzipan loaves, Hungarian Langos, gingerbread, and stollen that you can grab while wandering through the palace grounds.
Even with this many stalls, it still has a spacious vibe, leaving plenty of space to explore.
And if you’ve got kids, there’s a bunch of rides – a merry-go-round, a tiny roller coaster, and up to two free carousel rides to keep them entertained.
Besides the market, you can take a chill stroll through the palace garden or do a tour of the palace.
Opening Hours
The market is open every day from November 27 to December 31, 2023, except on Christmas Eve (December 24, 2023). You can savor the festivity from noon to 10 pm.
Cost of Entry
One of the best parts of this market is that it won’t cost you a dime to get in. But watch out for some of the attractions—they do come with a price.
How to Get There
Getting to the market is easy – it is located at Spandauer Damm 20, and you can just hop on Bus 309 or M45.
Your stops can be Schloss Charlottenburg, Sophie-Charlotten-Str., or Klausenerplatz.
Then, just take around 9 to 11 minutes of stroll to reach Charlottenburg Palace.
Berliner Weihnachtszeit at Rotes Rathaus
The Berliner Weihnachtszeit at the Rotes Rathaus in Berlin is perfect for every family out there.
The stalls there look all festive, especially in the evening. We can assure you it really captures the holiday spirit.
This Christmas market runs every winter, selling handmade stuff, drinks, and German delights.
Don’t miss out on their bratwursts, mulled wine (Glühwein), garlic potato chips, and roasted almonds to fully feel the joyous spirit of the season.
We had some Glühwein, and it definitely made the cold night better.
Oh, and for the kiddos, or for you if you’re feeling sporty, there’s a 600 square-meter ice skating rink where you can simply enjoy the exhilarating sensation of winter fun.
Also, hop on the 50-meter tall Ferris wheel for a laid-back spin and to enjoy killer views of Berlin City.
This is also one of the Christmas markets where you can catch Santa in action, along with other live performers. It’s indeed the go-to place for a dose of festive cheer and entertainment.
Opening Hours
Starting from November 27, 2023, and lasting until January 7, 2024, Berliner Weihnachtszeit will be in full swing at Roten Rathaus.
If you’re planning to drop by on a weekday, the festive vibes kick in from 12 noon to 10 pm.
On Saturdays and Sundays, the fun begins a bit earlier, running from 11 am to 10 pm. So, mark your calendars and head over for a dose of holiday cheer!
Cost of Entry
If you’re thinking about hitting up the Christmas market, admission is on the house!
Once you’re inside, though, you might wanna lace up those skates and hit the ice rink.
The good news is, you don’t have to lug around your own skates because they’ve got rentals for just €5.
How to Get There
The spot to be is Rathausstraße 15. To go there, you’ve got several S-Bahn options to choose from: S3, S5, S7, and S9.
Then, stop by the S+U Alexanderplatz Bhf. From there, you can take a 6-minute walk to reach the Christmas Market.
If you’re opting for the bus to travel to Roten Rathaus, you can catch the 248, 300, or N8 buses, all arriving at Jüdenstr. Then, it’s a 4-minute walk.
Alternatively, you can board the 100, 300, or N5 buses if you want to land at U Museumsinsel. From there, it’s a short 2-minute train ride or a 10-minute stroll.
Whichever you pick, it’s only a quick ride, and you’ll be right at Roten Rathaus in no time.
Christmas Market on Breitscheidplatz
The Christmas market on Breitscheidplatz in Berlin is a cool spot with a mix of old and new vibes.
You’ve got the Kaiser Wilhelm Memorial Church in the background and over 100 stalls selling all kinds of stuff, from toys to Christmas decorations.
If you’re a fan of picking up gifts and souvenirs like us, they’ve got these cute snowman mugs and wine glasses with a frosty touch.
It’s a family-friendly scene with mini carousels for the kids and some adult treats like mulled wine.
And if you’re hungry, they’ve got the basics covered with gingerbread, bratwurst, Thuringian Rostbratwurst, grilled sausages, steak, homemade eggnog, and mushroom stir-fry.
One thing that stands out is AG City’s yearly mulled wine sale, where they give the proceeds to their chosen charity. So, you’re kind of doing a good deed while sipping your drink.
You can even hit up the Kurfürstendamm for some shopping and chill time – it’s just around the corner.
Opening Hours
From November 27, 2023, to January 7, 2024, they’ll be open to serve you from 11 am to 9 pm on Sundays through Thursdays.
They extend a bit later on Fridays and Saturdays, closing up at 10 pm.
So, drop by during these times, and they’ll be there to take care of whatever you need.
Just a heads-up, hours might change, especially around holidays. So, it’s a good call to double-check their website before swinging by during the festive times.
Cost of Entry
Getting into the Christmas Market on Breitscheidplatz won’t cost you a dime. It’s open to everyone, so you can enjoy the festive vibes during the holidays.
How to Get There
The market is right by the Kurfürstendamm and is a breeze to get to using public transport.
The most efficient way is by taking an S-Bahn and stopping by S+U Zoologischer Garten Bhf. You’ve got a few options, like the FEX, RB23, RE1, RE2, RE7, and RE8.
Pick the one that suits your schedule best, and you’ll get there without any hassle.
Winter World on Potsdamer Platz
Winter World at Potsdamer Platz in Berlin is the place to be for a cool winter vibe.
They have a massive 70-meter toboggan run, the longest in Europe. You can take a wild ride down it and catch a view of Brandenburg Gate for just €2.50.
It’s a pretty sweet deal for some adrenaline-packed fun and perfect for both kids and grown-ups. And if you’re rolling deep, you can rent sleds for four or ten people at extra cost.
If sliding is not your thing, there’s a 500-square-meter ice rink nearby.
For a more laid-back option, or if you’re not feeling up for all the physical stuff, you can still grab plenty of Christmas snacks and hot drinks.
Don’t miss out on their specialties such as mushrooms with garlic sauce and roasted almonds.
You’ll also find a crafts market selling toys and Christmas decorations.
Opening Hours
Winter World at Potsdamer Platz is open from October 28, 2023, to January 01, 2024.
If you’re into Christmas vibes, the Christmas Market runs from November 27 to December 26, 2023. We prefer to go in December when everything is lit up for Christmas.
The Winter World hours are 11 am to 10 pm, with a shorter day on December 24 (11 am to 2 pm), and it takes a break on November 19 and 26.
The Christmas Market, on the other hand, operates from 10 am to 10 pm (10 am to 4 pm on December 24).
It’s the perfect spot for a seasonal stroll but always note the occasional closures.
Cost of Entry
If you’re planning to visit the Winter World on Potsdamer Platz, you’re in luck because the entrance fee is totally free.
How to Get There
If you’re thinking of heading to Winter World and planning to catch the S-Bahn, your go-to lines would be S1, S2, S25, or S26.
Just ride any of those, and you’ll find yourself rolling into S+U Potsdamer Platz Bhf – it’s the spot you want to hit.
Once you’re there, it’s just a quick minute stroll to reach the market.
Alexanderplatz Christmas Market
The Alexanderplatz Christmas Market in Berlin is like this lively winter hub right in the city center. It’s got that mix of old-school market charm and a bit of a carnival vibe.
When you go here, you get to witness the massive Christmas pyramid, decked out with over 5000 lights, making it the biggest Ore Mountain pyramid in all of Europe.
The lights were so bright and cheerful; it really put us in the holiday spirit.
They’ve got over 100 stalls selling all sorts of things – pots, jewelry, gingerbread, mulled wine, and roasted chestnuts.
And if you’ve got kids, there’s a Ferris wheel with a killer view of the lit-up Alexanderplatz and even a roller skating rink for the more active bunch.
Oh, and there’s this Santa Claus party house where grown-ups can chill there, have some drinks, and dance. We’ll never forget dancing the night away in there.
Don’t forget the backdrop – the Berlin TV Tower, making this market one of the most snapped spots in the city.
Opening Hours
From November 27 to December 26, 2023, the event will be up and running, welcoming visitors between 11 am and 10 pm daily.
Cost of Entry
There’s no admission fee when entering the Alexanderplatz Christmas Market.
So, drop by anytime in that month-long window and enjoy what’s on offer.
How to Get There
The easiest move for hitting up the Christmas Market at Alexanderplatz is to hop on the M2 U-Bahn line and get off at S+U Alexanderplatz Bhf/Dircksenstr.
It’s a quick 2-minute stroll from there.
Traditional Christmas Markets In Berlin
These traditional markets are the ideal destination for getting into the holiday spirit in this historic city.
They never fail to delight, and there is still so much more to uncover here.
These are the traditional markets in Berlin that you shouldn’t miss:
Christmas Market at the Gendarmenmarkt
The Gendarmenmarkt Christmas Market, or WeihnachtsZauber Gendarmenmarkt, is one of the most popular Christmas markets in Berlin.
For 2023, they’re moving the market to Bebelplatz at the Staatsoper Unter den Linden because of construction.
It’s set in a neat square surrounded by the Hotel de Rome, the State Opera House, and St. Hedwig’s Cathedral.
This market is all about artsy crafts and entertainment. They’ve got woodworkers, tailors, origami masters, and glass blowers showing off their skills.
Watching those artisans at work is really impressive. That origami master made the coolest little paper animals!
It’s indeed a good spot for snagging gifts and souvenirs such as toys, candles, and other decorative stuff for your loved ones.
Besides all the cool, artsy stuff, there’s a load of delicious food at the market.
Don’t forget to dish out their traditional German eats and other goodies, such as roasted chestnuts and mulled wine.
They’ve also got these classic Bavarian, Austrian, and Bohemian dishes that you can try out.
You can also witness their huge Christmas tree and top-notch live performances, including acrobats, jugglers, dancers, and fire-eaters.
Once the lights come on in the evening, it’s a whole vibe. Come to the market and party on New Year’s Eve with a DJ and a big fireworks show!
Opening Hours
If you’re planning to hit up the Christmas Magic at the Gendarmenmarkt, it’s rolling from November 27th to December 31st.
On the regular, Sunday to Thursday, the festive vibes kick in from noon till 10 pm.
And on Fridays and Saturdays, they stretch it a bit longer, closing shop at 11 pm.
Cost of Entry
There’s a €1 entrance fee, and kids under 12 get in for free.
But if you swing by between 12 pm and 2 pm on weekdays (except certain days), you’re in for free.
It’s easy on the pocket, especially if you’ve got little ones in tow.
How to Get There
To get to the Christmas market in BebelPlatz, hop on the S-Bahn lines S3, S5, S7, or S9 and make your stop at S+U Alexanderplatz Bhf.
Once you’re there, you have a couple of options to get to the Christmas market – either grab a bus or hail a cab.
Keep in mind, though, that a taxi may be a straightforward route, but fares can hit your wallet, so plan accordingly.
Spandau Christmas Market
The Spandau Christmas Market in Berlin has more than 400 stalls on weekends and around 250 on weekdays, making it all sparkly with lights.
Spandau’s Old Town is the backdrop, turning into a winter wonderland with cobblestone streets full of huts and stalls.
What sets this market apart is the international vibe. We loved wandering around to see all the unique gifts and ornaments.
They’ve got artsy stuff that is great for shopping, especially if you’re into products from around the world – we’re talking clothes and perfumes.
You can even munch on different Christmas foods. And don’t miss this big fir tree and a live nativity scene with animals – that’s a highlight.
Opening Hours
You can visit Spandau Christmas Market from November 27 to December 23, 11 am to 8 pm on Monday to Thursday and Sunday.
They stretch it a bit on Friday and Saturday, keeping the festive vibes going until 10 pm.
Cost of Entry
The best part is that it has no entry fee. So, swing by whenever it suits your schedule and soak up the holiday cheer.
How to Get There
To get to the Spandau Christmas market, hop on the U-Bahn line U7 and make your way to U Altstadt Spandau.
Once you’re there, just take a leisurely 5-minute stroll, and you’ll find yourself at the lively market.
Unique Christmas Markets In Berlin
While Berlin has several traditional outdoor markets selling classic holiday goods and foods, it also hosts a number of unique and themed Christmas markets tailored to specific interests or cultures.
These creative markets are well worth visiting to experience one-of-a-kind versions of old-world holiday cheer right in the heart of this iconic European capital.
Christmas Avenue
Checked out Christmas Avenue in Berlin, the LGBTQIA+ Christmas market at Nollendorfplatz under the train tracks– it’s a cool twist to your regular Christmas market.
It kicked off in Cologne and is now considered one of the largest LGBTQIA+ Christmas markets.
Lots of drag shows, good food, and cocktails in this place. It’s like your regular Christmas market but with an extra dash of fabulousness and inclusivity.
Opening Hours
From November 10 to December 23, 2023, they’re open Monday to Thursday, 4 pm to 10 pm, and Friday to Sunday, 3 pm to 10 pm.
Just a heads up, the market is closed on November 19 (Remembrance Day) and November 26 (Sunday of the Dead).
Cost of Entry
It won’t cost you a dime to enter Christmas Avenue.
How to Get There
You’ve got a couple of options for getting there—either hop on a bus or catch the U-Bahn.
The bus choices include lines 106, 187, M19, N1, N2, and N26. If you’re feeling more U-Bahn vibes, consider taking lines U2, U3, U4, or U1.
Whichever route you choose, both buses and U-Bahns make a stop at U Nollendorfplatz. From there, it’s just a quick 2-minute walk to the Christmas market.
Lucia Christmas Market
The Lucia Christmas Market in Berlin gives off those Scandi and Nordic vibes.
The market is against the backdrop of the brewery’s brick buildings – it’s like stepping into a festive movie.
It’s always our go-to spot in Prenzlauer Berg during the winter season, and we love the genuine and natural feel of this market.
They even have an ‘open-air coat heater’ where you can warm up in coats heated by a wood-fired oven.
You can find around 60 stalls that sell handmade crafts and gifts from different places like Norway, Sweden, and Finland.
Don’t miss out on their tasty eats, such as moose goulash, Swedish Glögg, and many more. They also have must-try drinks like Icelandic Jolaglögg and Finnish Glögi.
Opening Hours
From November 27 to December 22, 2023, they are open from 3 pm to 10 pm, Monday through Friday.
And for those laid-back weekends, they’ll be open from 1 pm to 10 pm on Saturday and Sunday.
So, whether you’re winding down after a long day or looking for a leisurely weekend hangout, they got you covered during these hours.
Cost of Entry
You can just stroll into Lucia’s Christmas market for free!
How to Get There
The best way to go to Lucia Christmas Market is by bus (N2), and ride it until you hit Sredzkistr.
Once you’re there, there’s no more bus hassle – just a quick one-minute stroll, and you’re at the market.
Medieval Christmas Market at the RAW Compound
There’s this cool Medieval Christmas Market happening at the RAW Compound in Berlin this winter – it’s the 6th time they’re doing it. It’s a pretty unique place to check out.
You’ll be surrounded by torches and fireplaces while wandering around the market.
Here, you can witness different handmade items crafted by artisans, such as woodcarvers and potters.
Also, get your hands on their archery and crossbow shooting to fully experience the medieval vibe.
Don’t forget to grab some hot mead, barbecued food, and mulled beer while soaking the festive vibes with jugglers and acrobats – it’s a whole experience.
Opening Hours
This market runs from November 16 to December 22, 2023, and it’s open from 3 pm to 10 pm on weekdays and noon to 10 pm on weekends.
Cost of Entry
Mondays and Tuesdays are the golden days—entry is on the house.
But once midweek hits, from Wednesday to Sunday, it’ll cost you €3 (slash that to €1.50 if you’ve got the hookup for a discount).
How to Get There
If you’re heading to the Medieval Christmas Market at the RAW Compound, the no-fuss way to get there is by tram.
Jump on either the M10 or M13 lines and hop off at S Warschauer Str. From there, it’s just a quick 2-minute walk to the market.
It’s definitely worth checking out if you’re up for a different kind of Christmas market in Berlin!
Tips for Visiting Berlin Christmas Market
Berlin is one of the cities that have the oldest and largest Christmas markets in Germany.
So, it is essential to learn useful tips to help you plan your visit, navigate the markets efficiently, and fully embrace the Christmas spirit in one of Europe’s most enchanting capital cities.
Find Accessible Lodging
Finding the right hotel is key to an enjoyable visit to Berlin’s magical Christmas markets.
With hundreds of stalls selling gifts, decorations, and festive treats across various locations, you’ll want accommodations that are both comfortable and offer easy access to the major market sites.
Hotel Recommendation
If you’re up for a great stay in Berlin during Christmas, we’d say check out The Ritz-Carlton, Berlin.
This luxury hotel has an excellent location right on Potsdamer Platz and just only a 10-15 minute walk from the large Christmas market at Gendarmenmarkt.
This is also very conveniently located near public transportation, with the Potsdamer Platz train and subway station just outside.
So, if you’re up for exploring different markets and attractions all over Berlin, it’s a breeze – no hassle with transportation.
Expect to be treated like royalty with Ritz-Carlton’s famous service – they’ve got it all, from a spa to a fitness center, not to mention bars and dining if you’re feeling lazy.
As a 5-star luxury property, room rates are more expensive, especially during the peak Christmas market season.
But if you’re up for a special holiday splurge, the top-notch service and fancy amenities make it worth the bucks. Pro tip: book early for a shot at better prices.
Watch Your Belongings
Watch out for pickpockets, especially in the hustle and bustle of Christmas Markets.
Keep an eye on your stuff and stay alert in the crowds. It is best to use a crossbody bag when dealing with the crows.
Weather-Ready Wardrobe
Don’t underestimate Berlin’s winter weather—it can be all over the place.
Bundle up in layers, bring spare socks, scarves, and hats, and gear up with waterproof boots and gloves.
Be ready for anything, from freezing temps to unexpected rain or snow.
Stay Informed on Transit
Keep an eye on public transportation updates, as winter weather might throw a wrench in the usual schedules.
Check transit apps for real-time info and have a backup plan in case your preferred S-Bahn, U-bahn or bus decides to take a break.
Build in Extra Travel Time
Factor in extra time for travel; Berlin’s winter might throw some delays your way.
Take it slow on potentially icy paths, consider going early or during off-peak hours to avoid the crowds, and stay flexible to tackle any weather-related curveballs.
Book Ahead for Tours and Workshops
Rather than risking crowded markets and unpleasant weather without a solid plan, give yourself the holiday gift of booking a Christmas market-guided tour.
Heads up—it’s essential to book ahead because these tours can fill up quickly, especially during the holiday rush.
You’ll skip the lines, stay comfortable while travelling in wintry conditions, and fully appreciate Berlin’s abundant and long-standing seasonal tradition of Christmas markets.
Closing Thoughts on Berlin’s Festive Markets
The Christmas markets in Berlin are a magical way to embrace the holiday spirit during the winter months.
With over 80 markets spread out across various neighborhoods, there is an abundance of delightful options to choose from that capture old-world Christmas charm.
From the festive glow at Charlottenburg Palace to the lively scene in Alexanderplatz, Berlin delivers Christmas cheer through these lively markets.
You can find handcrafted gifts at Spandau’s international market, sample tasty treats like gingerbread and mulled wine, or even channel Medieval times at the quirky RAW Compound.
With family-friendly rides and activities as well as more traditional European-style celebrations, the Christmas markets have something delightful for everyone wanting to get into the holiday mood.
Despite the chilly winter weather, the warm hospitality and festive glow of these abundant markets make the season bright for both locals and visitors in one of Europe’s iconic capitals.
