A list of the best Christmas markets in Berlin with dates, opening-hours, entrance-prices, insider-tips and a map with the locations of the markets.
German people love Christmas. This can be experienced in the decorated streets and houses, illuminated shopping malls and of course the lovely Christmas markets. It is estimated that there are 3000 Christmas markets in Germany and about 300 of them are located in the capital city Berlin. In this post we have listed the best Christmas markets in Berlin and all you need to know about them.
The best Christmas markets in Berlin
Because there are so many Christmas markets in Berlin, it’s helpful to do research before you decide which one you want to visit. Things like opening-hours, size, offered activities and price are useful information when choosing the right market for you. This article should help you compare some of the best Christmas Markets in Berlin in 2022.
- 1. Berliner Weihnachtszeit at Roten Rathaus
- 2. Weihnachtszauber (Magdalenenstraße)
- 3. Weihnachtsmarkt Schloss Charlottenburg
- 4. Weihnachtszauber at the Gendarmenmarkt
- 5. Winterwelt am Potsdamer Platz
- 6. Weihnachtsmarkt am Gedächtniskirche
1. Berliner Weihnachtszeit at Roten Rathaus (Alexanderplatz)
Alexanderplatz is often referred to as the central meeting point in Berlin. Every day more than 300.000 people visit the square and another 500.000 use its train and subway-station. But in December there is an additional reason to visit: There are two Christmas markets directly next to the station.
Two markets at Alexanderplatz
The first market is a rather small market on the square between shopping mall Alexa and Galeria Kaufhaus. You can visit this market quickly but make sure you also visit the bigger market on the other side of the Fernsehturm in front of the Roten Rathaus. The market is called Berliner Weihnachtszeit. You’ll recognise this Berliner market because of its huge 50 meter large ferris wheel (see image below).
One of the oldest Christmas markets in Berlin
The Berliner Weihnachtszeit at Roten Rathaus is one of the oldest Christmas markets in Berlin. The different stalls at this market are decorated in the style of the early 1900s, which gives the market a very unique and special look. What’s also great about the Berliner Weihnachtszeit is the large iceskating-ring. With a total surface of 600 square meter, everybody can have a great time. The skating itself is free but renting skates used to cost 4€ per pair of skates.
Popular market for children
The Berliner Weihnachtszeit is a very popular Christmas markets for children. Besides the Ferris wheel and the ice-skating there is small farm with some friendly animals. Children can also ride the ponies and pet the other animals. While the children are busy, the parents can enjoy a nice glühwein in one of the surrounding stalls. Another thing children will love is the Santa Claus which visits this market three times a day. The children can go on a photo with him and 16.30, 18.30 and 20.30.
The central location, the large ferris wheel and the 600 m2 iceskating-ring are reasons for the high ranking of the Berliner Weihnachtszeit at Alexanderplatz.
Name: Berliner Weihnachtszeit
Address: Corner Spandauer Straße/Jüdenstraße
Entrance: Free
Public transport: U or S-Bahn to station Alexanderplatz
Dates: 21 November until 30 December 2022
(closed on 24 but open on 25 & 26 December)
Opening-times: 12.00 – 22.00 (during weekends 11.00 – 22.00)
Website: www.berlinerweihnachtszeit.de
2. Winterzauber – Biggest Christmas market in Berlin
The largest Christmas market in Berlin is located on the Frankfurter Allee and is called Winterzauber. All you have to do is travel to the U-Bahn station (U5) Magdalenenstraße and you will see the lights and the large ferris wheel of this market. Besides the Ferris wheel you can also enjoy a small rollercoaster, wild spinning attractions, bumper cars and many other attractions.
Mix between Christmas Market and Funfair
The main focus of the Winterzauber are the attractions. There is no Christmas market in Berlin with this much action and excitement. For teenagers you can find a rollercoaster and other wild attractions but there are also carousels for small children and many things for the ages in between. The parents can grab a gluhwein and something to eat at one of the stands and you can also try to win prices at all kind of stands. All in all this Christmas Market mixes tradition with excitement in a great way.
If you like excitement you should visit the Winterzauber. There are attractions for all ages and it’s the largest Christmas market in Berlin so you will not get bored easily.
Name: Winterzauber
Address: Frankfurter Allee
Entrance: Free
Public Transport: Magdalenenstraße
Dates: 4 November till 26 December 2022
Opening-times: Weekdays 14 – 21.30, Fri-Saturday 14-22.30, Sunday 12-21.00
Website: No official website
3. Weihnachtsmarkt Schloss Charlottenburg
One of the most beautiful Christmas market in Berlin can be found in Charlottenburg. Although this is a bit further from the center than the other markets, it’s definitely worth it. The beauty of this market mainly comes from its location directly in front of the Schloss Charlottenburg. This Palace was built in the end of the 17th century and gives this Christmas market in Berlin a very unique and special vibe. On the image below you can see the Schloss in the back.
Impressive illuminations
The Weihnachtsmarkt vor dem Schloss Charlottenburg was first organised in 2007. Since that year the organisation has tried to improve the concept step by step. A main focus has always been the extraordinary lightning and illuminations which contribute to the lovely atmosphere of this market. If you like the annual Festival of Lights, you will also love this Christmas market in Berlin.
More than just food and drinks
This Christmas market also offers plenty of entertainment. A few examples are the grand-opening, the Christmas bikers on the 10th of December and tours in the palace are just a few examples of what this market has to offer. Besides that there are also the usual stands with food, drinks and products for Christmas-shopping.
One of the best Christmas markets because of its location, the wide range of activities and the romantic illuminations.
Name: Weihnachtsmarkt vor dem Schloss Charlottenburg
Address: Spandauer Damm 20-24
Entrance: Free
Public Transport: Sophie-Charlotte-Platz or Richard-Wagner Platz
Dates: 21 November till 26 December 2022 (Open on 25 and 26 December)
Opening-times: 14.00 – 22.00 (during weekends 12.00 – 22.00)
Website: wvdsc.de
Using public transport to reach the Christmas markets will safe you time and enable you to enjoy a few Glühwein without worrying about driving back.
4. Weihnachtszauber Bebelplatz (Gendarmenmarkt)
Popular attractions like Brandenburger Tor and Reichstag attract millions of tourists throughout the year. During the last months of the year the attention has to be shared with Christmas markets like the Weihnachtszauber. Every year more than 600.000 people visit this Christmas market in Berlin-Mitte. The market used be located directly on the Gendarmenmarkt but this year you can find it on the Bebelplatz which is just a few hundred meters away from the previous location.
Impressive location for a Christmas market
The Weihnachtszauber is a great Christmas market because the area around this market offers many impressive buildings like the Deutsche Dom, the Staatsoper and the Französische Friedrichstadtkirche. It’s like sightseeing and enjoying a Christmas market at once. Besides that there is a gigantic Christmas tree and daily live performances to entertain the crowd. The images show the market of a few years ago.
This Christmas market in Berlin is also a great place to buy delicacies: A cup of white chocolate-milk, fried apples or cheese fondue directly from a wheel of cheese are just a few examples.
Open during Christmas and entrance of 1€
Although some other Christmas markets in Berlin are for free, the Weihnachtszauber costs 1 Euro entrance. But this is a small investment if you want to enjoy a nice Christmas Markets in Berlin. If you really do not want to pay entrance you can visit this market before 2 PM during weekdays. Good to know: The Weihnachtszauber is open on 24, 25, 26 and 31 December (no free entrance possible here).
This Christmas Markets in Berlin also offers a special New Years Eve party on the 31st of December. Wanna read more about that: Check our article about New Years Eve parties in Berlin.
The beautiful location and daily shows are the main reason to visit this Christmas market. The location is very easy to reach and can easily be combined with visiting the Brandenburger Tor.
Name: Weihnachtszauber
Address: Leipziger Strasse 65
Entrance: 1 Euro (Working days till 14.00 for free)
Public Transport: Stadtmitte, Hausvogteiplatz or Friedrichstrasse
Opening Dates: 21 November until 31 December 2022
Opening Times: Every day from 11.00 till 22.00 (24 December till 6pm)
Website: www.gendarmenmarktberlin.de
5. Winter Welt am Potsdamer Platz
Another famous location which also offers a Christmas market, is Potsdamer Platz. Every year an incredible amount of 2,5 million people visit the Winterwelt Christmas market. The location is great because it is easy to combine with visiting interesting sights like the the Reichstag, the memorial of the murdered Jews and Checkpoint Charlie. Besides that there are also plenty of nice restaurants, Legoland and a casino at Potsdamer Platz. Besides that the market itself is also great and offers some unique features.
Uniuque Activities: Eistockschießen, Ice-Skating and a Toboggan
If you like to mix a Christmas markets with some fun activities, the market at Potsdamer Platz is probably a great place for you. Here are a few examples of the activities this market has to offer:
- Toboggan: There is a 12 meters high artificial high and you can glide down in a tube
- Iceskating: There is a ice-skating ring at this Christmas Market
- Eisstockschießen: Check the image below. It’s a mix between bowling and curling
For Eisstockschießen it’s best to make a reservation. It costs about 30€ per hour but you can do it with a group of friends and share the costs.
Part of the market opens at the 29th of October already
The Winterwelt am Potsdamer Platz is already offering part of its activities from the beginning of November. The real Christmas market will start on the 25th of November but the Toboggan can already be used from the 29th of October. So if you love Christmas and can’t wait, this might be the right Christmas market in Berlin for you. Enjoy the stalls, the different activities and there is also live-music during the weekends.
The combination of plenty of stands with food and drinks (Glühwein) and some fun activities make this Christmas market in Berlin worth a visit for sure.
Name: Winterwelt am Potsdamer Platz
Address: Potsdamer Platz
Entrance: Free
Public Transport: U-bahn (U2) en S-Bahn (S1, S2) to station Potsdamer Platz
Dates: The full market from 26 November until 26 December
Opening-times: 10.00 – 22.00 (24 December only till 16.00)
Website : www.potsdamerplatz.de
The Day Spa called Liquidrom is located not far from this casino in Berlin
6. Weihnachtsmarkt am Gedächtniskirche
The west of Berlin also offers some nice Christmas markets. Besides the market at the Palace Charlottenburg the Weihnachtsmarkt am Gedächtniskirche is also worth a visit. Just take the train to Zoologischer Garten and you can walk to this Christmas market in a few minutes. This area of Berlin offers attractions like the Gedächtniskirche, the Zoo Berlin & Aquarium and the famous Kurfürstendamm is nearby so you can also combine this market with an afternoon of shopping in Berlin.
Christmas decorations, toys, presents and handmade art
The Weihnachtsmarkt am Gedächtniskirche will be organised for the 36th time this year. Last year around 170 stalls could be found between station Zoologischer Garten and the Gedächtniskirche and most of them are quite unique and offer versatile products. Things like Christmas decorations, toys, presents and handmade art can all be bought here. The decoration of this market is also impressive: A 20-Meters high Christmas tree, 400 meters of lights and old-fashioned stalls create the right atmosphere.
A great area of Berlin with 170 nice stands with all kinds of things to offer. Besides that this market is open until the 5th of January, so you can even visit it after New Years Eve.
Name: Weihnachtsmarkt am Gedächtniskirche
Address: Zooligischer Garten/ Kantstraße
Entrance: Free
Public Transport: U or S-Bahn to station Zoologischer Garten
Dates: 21 November 2022 till 9 January 2023 (also open during Christmas)
Opening-times: 11.00 – 21.00 (Friday and Saturday: 11.00 – 22.00)
Website: www.schaustellerverband-berlin.de
Frequently Asked Questions
To make sure you have no questions left, we have created a small FAQ-Section below. If you have any other questions, just leave a comment under the article.
Most Christmas markets in Berlin in 2022 start on the 21st of November. There are some exceptions, like the market on Potsdamer Platz, which offers some of its activities already from the 28th of October.
If you planning to visit several Christmas markets in Berlin, it makes sense to choose a central location for your accommodation. Examples of good locations are Alexanderplatz, Warschauer Straße or Zoologischer Garten.
It can get quite crowded at the Christmas markets in Berlin. During the week most people visit after they are done with work so it makes sense to visit the markets before 5PM. This enables you to grab a nice spot in one of the Glühwein stands. During the weekend the markets get more crowded after 2PM so if you want to avoid a crowded market it makes most sense to visit in the morning.
Every year around 100 Christmas markets are organised in the city of Berlin. If you count the suburbs as well, there are even more.
Map of Berliner Christmas Markets
Altogether we can conclude that everybody should be able to find a suitable Christmas market in Berlin. It all depends if you want to do some shopping, enjoy some traditional food and drinks or are looking for some activities. All markets have their benefits and the great thing is that almost all of them are for free and not far from each other. The location of the markets is very important and therefore below you can find the Christmas markets in Berlin on a map.
196 Comments
Hi Job
We are looking to visit the markets in Dec 2019
We have looked at a hotel near central station is this a good location for the markets
Thanks in advance
Stephen
Hi Stephen,
you would have to travel a few stations but it is definitely a central and good location as a starting point.
The public transport in Berlin is great so you will be able to reach all Christmas Markets within 15-30 Minutes.
Have fun!
Job
where is the best place to stay in Berlin for visiting the Christmas market this year 2018?
Hey Stephen,
Anywhere around Alexanderplatz or Friedrichstraße would be great to reach these Christmas Markets. But the public transport is very good in Berlin so do not worry too much if you are a bit further outside of the center.
Have fun in Berlin!
How many days do you think one needs to visit the Christmas Markets in Berlin?
Hey Ann,
there are more than 100 Christmas markets in Berlin so visiting all is not realistic. But visiting the five in this article could easily be done in a long weekend of 3-4 days. Some of them are located very close to each other (e.g. Number 2 and 3).
Hope that helps! Have fun!
Hii. Is the Coca Cola trick a thing this year?
Hi Pily,
No unfortunately not. Let’s hope it will be back next year.
Have a merry christmas!
Very helpful tips, thank-you. I would add to all tourists be mindful of the displayed price when you place your order. I just came from the Weihnachtsmarkt am Gedächtniskirche market and one of the vendors tried to charge me $5.00 euro for a bottle of water when the sign clearly stated the price was $2.50 euro. When I asked about the discrepancy, the verbal price quickly changed back to $2.50 euro. The same thing happened when buying a bottle of water at another vendor outside of KaDeWe the day before.
Hi Kyle,
Thanks for the comment.
That does not sound nice at all. Although I never heard about it before it is certainly something people should keep in mind.
You sure it did not have something to do with deposit (Pfand)?
Hope you still enjoyed your time on the Christmas Markets.
Best wishes,
Job
I’m an American tourist, and just got back from this market. I’m sure the deposit is why this man believes he was ripped off. I bought a beer advertised as 3 euro, but was charged 6 euro. I later realized after returning your beer glass, you receive your 3 euro back. I’ve traveled to several European countries, and the Germans have been the most polite so far.
Hi Marshall,
Thanks for your input and great to hear you enjoyed Berlin and its markets.
Enjoy!
Hi , we are coming to Berlin 22-25 December ..Can You please suggest some restaurants open at Christmas Eve – we are staying at Marriot near Gendarmenmarkt ? We are Catholics, so no meat on Christmas eve, FISH /VEGETARIAN FRIENDLY WOULD BE WELCOMED…
Hi Vilija,
sorry for my late reply, we were in Nicaragua the last three weeks.
Because we live a bit further away of the Gendarmenmarkt, we do not go for dinner there that often. But there are plenty of restaurants around and Google will probably help you out with some vegetarian-ones.
Good luck!
This actually answered my drawback, thank you!
You are Welcome Johne!
Hi there – that’s a great list for checking our what markets are open during Xmas. Would the sight seeing place pretty much be open around Christmas as we are planning to visit between 23 to 27 Dec?
Hi HRS,
I am not sure what you want to visit, but most of the sightseeing are historic buildings and checking them out is possible 24/7.
Good luck!
Job
Great resource – thanks
hi
i am looking to visit Berlin for 4 days end of November or early December,i would like to visit as many Xmas markets as possible,what airport would be best to fly into? are there any hotels you would recommend that have a central location so each market would be close to get too.
thanks
Hi Tom,
thanks for your comment.
Both airports are pretty much the same distance away from the center so take the cheapest tickets I would say.
Personally I would choose a hotel somewhere around Alexanderplatz. I am not sure what your budget is but Google will give you all the information you need.
Good luck and have fun!
hi Job
thank you for your reply.
i will be visiting Berlin 14th – 18th December, i will be staying at the RIU Plaza Berlin am Kurfürstendamm
is this hotel in a central location to all the Xmas markets?
any other famous landmarks/attractions you recommend i visit?
thankyou
Hi Tom,
it is only on walking distance from the last option in this list. For the other ones you have to take the S-Bahn but you will reach them in about 30 minutes including the walking so that is fine I guess.
You could also visit the Christmas Market at Schloss Charlottenburg, that one is nice too.
For other attractions and activities I would advise you to check out my blog 🙂
Have fun!
Hey Job,
Going to Berlin the 23rd – 27th of November. Is Potsdamer the only christmas market open at that time!
Thanking you in advance 🙂
Hi Tig,
In this list it is the only one but in Berlin there will definitely be some other Christmas markets which will be open.
Potsdamer Platz is a great market though and has a lot to offer so you probably will have a great time!
Cheers!
hi i am coming to berlin in December, 20th-24th, staying in the Bellevue am Kurfurstendamm hotel,, could you tell me if this is close to any markets etc or will i need to use public transport?
thanks in advance
Hi Jj,
The one at the Gedächtniskirche is not that far from your hotel.
Good luck!
Hi, we are arriving on the 31st December for HYTE berlin. Staying at the holiday inn berlin city east side, which Christmas markets are close and what is the best public transport to get there? Thanks!
Hi Sarah,
great choice, the line-up of the HYTE-Party is incredible.
Not all christmas-markets will still be open on the 31st. You can use public transport and visit Potsdamer Platz or the market at the Gedachtniskirche.
Have fun!
Love to go but Germany is way to dangerous to visit and probably will be for a next decades. Christmas Markets are ripe for Terrorist attacks and Merkel has assured the end of your Christmas markets. Frankly, I’m surprised that they haven’t been vilified long before this as the word “Christmas” has no place in Muslim Caliphates.
Hi Glenn,
Thanks for your comment. I am not sure if this is the right place to have a discussion about this but obviously you are allowed to have your own opinion.
The christmas-markets are something special and most people here are making clear that nobody can take them away from them. All the christmas markets are open again, also to take a stand against terrorism.
I do not know how it will look the next couple of years, but really hope we can enjoy these markets for a very long time.
Have a merry christmas!
Nah. It’s safe.
I have just returned from your beautiful city and its worth saying that there are amazing historical tours just 25 euros per person for a 2 day hop on hop off ticket as well as the markets well worth the money
Hi Cheryl,
Thanks for the tip, we will check it out and maybe even write an article about it.
Have a nice sunday!
Alright Job,
On for a mad one 29-1st looking for some weird places to have the night of our lives any ideas?
Hi Collo,
the parties in our calendar are the one we would recommend. If you like it extreme, you can always try to get into the Berghain!
Have a nice Sunday!
hi job h r u?
your article is very interesting, i will visit berlin from Dec. 30th till Jan. 6th. to spend NYE there.
is any chritmas market available between these dates?.
In addition, can you tell me what should i wear as outfit and shoes?
regarding new year, it is going to be very crowded, any additional tip?
thanking u in advance
Hi Sandy,
there are still a few christmas-markets which are open around New Years. The dates are written in this article.
If you are visiting a christmas market, I would wear comfortable shoes because you might walk a lot.
Visiting during the weekend is not smart if you do not like crowded places.
Have fun!
Thanks for your blog some good information, we are having 3 days in Berlin at the end of this week and this cuts out all the guess work.
Thanks Alexander!
we are stopping by Alexander i take it that’s where the main attractions are for the c’mas market?
Hi Nikki,
at Alexanderplatz you can find 3 Christmas-Markets. One on the square itself but it is a bit smaller. The other two are described in the article.
Have fun!
Hi Job
Please can you share which Christmas markets are open on 25th Dec? Also we will be at Hotel Amano so pls can you share which markets are in walking distance or closeby?
Thanks
Swati
Hi Swati,
The opening hours are written in the article. Have a look on the websites for more information.
Your Hotel is about 10 minutes by train from Alexanderplatz. Walking would be a bit far. Market 2 and 3 can be found there.
Have fun!
A great blog and so informative. I am staying at the Novotel Mitte. I wondered if you could tell me the best way to get to Schoenefeld airport from there. I have been told to take a taxi to Ostbahnhof station and get a direct train to the airport from there. Does this sound right?
Yeah, there are direct trains going there. The public transport is quite clear so you will find your way. Just plan enough time for the ride , just in case 🙂
Good luck!
Great post with plenty of useful info! I am coming to Berlin this Sunday and can’t wait! 🙂 Thanks
Great Blog thanks. Which market is closest to Heydenstrabe 15?
Hi Bella,
If you mean the Haydenstraße, it does not really matter which one you will visit. You will have to travel into the city and both Alexanderplatz and Friedrichstraße are easy to reach.
Number 2 and 3 are close to Alexanderplatz.
Have fun!
Hi great information my friend and I are coming on the 16th December and studying at the Iverbergs premium schoneberg. what’s the best market to visit and any other attractions thanks for your help Laura
Staying not studying ?
Hi Laura,
you are not really near to one of the markets in this list but you can reach all of them with public transport within 30 minutes.
Have fun!
How many chalets do you think are at Potsdamer Platz? Also about the first market mentioned in your blog. Is it walking distance to Potsdamer Platz?
Hi Patricia,
Potsdamer Platz is one of the smaller markets, I would estimate about 50 chalets. Walking to the Gendarmenmarkt is a bit far, I would take a cab or public transport.
Have fun!
Hi I have just booked to stay at holiday inn east landsberger. Please can you tell me which markets are nearby. Thank you – can’t wait!;
Hi Wendy,
You will not be able to walk to any of the christmas markets in this list but you can easily reach Alexanderplatz with public Transport. There are 3 markets located there.
Have fun!
Is Berlin safe if I travelled alone? (Female) I have flights and accommodation booked near Tiergarten/Zoo 4-9 December to visit the Christmas markets and sights but my friend can’t make it now and I don’t know whether to go by myself or not bother and just forget it. I’ll be travelling from Schonenfeld to Zoo station around 10-11pm at night to get to hotel Luetzow.
Hi Clareb,
Berlin is relatively safe if you ask me. My female friends always walk around at night alone and never have problems. But obviously there are also bad people in Berlin and there are some bad neighborhoods as well. Therefore I would recommend taking a taxi from the Airport to your hotel just to be sure. Also do not walk around alone in the dark. My friend are from here and know the city which is a good thing. You do not know the city so do not take any risks and better try to make some friends in the hotel/hostel and ask them to join you at night.
Skipping your trip would be a waste of your money I guess. But in the end it is up to you.
Have fun and stay safe!
Hi )
Thanks a lot for this article. We are planning our visit to Berlin for Dec 22-28 and your tips helped a lot in our schedule 🙂
Just one question – will be the cafes and etc open on 24th eve?
merry Xmas and Happy New Year ! 🙂
Hi Aynur,
thanks for the compliment, we appreciate it.
Not all cafes and restaurants will be open but some of them definitely will be. Best would probably to check their website before the visit.
Good luck!
Hi,
my name is Karen and i’m visiting Berlin in the middle of Dec, staying at the ABBA hotel.
which market can you recommend that have lots of trinkets/toys for kids in a reasonable price close to our hotel and that is not to crowded.
What will the best time of the day to visit the markets when considering how crowded & cold it will be?
Thanks!
Hi Karen,
your hotel is close to the fifth option in this list, the market at the Gedachtniskirche. There are some toys for sale there as well.
The prices at the markets are always higher than the prices in the normal shops.
Best time to visit the markets will be during working-hours: So between 10.00 – 16.00.
Good luck!
From the info given, it seems that all the Christmas Markets are open through Xmas day and Boxing Day. It that correct?
Hi MK,
The times which are written in the article were found on the websites of the Markets so they should be correct.
Most of them do have changed opening-hours on the described days, though.
Have fun!
Hi Job!
I’ll be spending few days in Berlin with my wife ( from Dec 27 till Dec 29 ).
We’ll be staying in Best Western Plus Amedia Berlin Kurfürstendamm.Which one of the above markets are close by? What is else is worth to visit and see during the Christmas time in Berlin?Thanks a lot for swift reply.
Regards
Konstantin
Hi Konstantin,
the last market in the list is quite close from your hotel. But the public transport in Berlin is great so you can also easily visit the other markets.
Have fun!
Hi we are travelling to Berlin on the 6th of December and are staying at the novum winters hotel Berlin mitte which I think is in zimmerstrausse kreuzberg. Could you please tell me which Christmas markets are easy to get to many thanks Richard
Hi Richard,
You could easily reach alexanderplatz and visit the christmas markets at Alexa and Roten Rathaus.
Have fun!
Hi! I’m 69 and am taking my 26 year old son to Berlin for 4 days from 30 November to see the architecture and the Christmas markets. We’re staying on Alexanderplatz. Can you recommend any restaurants with traditional German food?
thank you!
Carol S.
Hi Carol,
We are not that much of a specialist on the field of German Restaurants but you could visit Zur Gerichtslaube in Poststraße 28.
Guten Apetit!
Vielen Dank!!
Carol
Hi
I’ll be visiting 25/11/16 staying near check Point Charlie, could you please let me know which are the closest markets
Thanks
Yvonne
Hi Evie,
you are lucky, the first christmas market in this list will be very easy to reach from your destination.
Have a good time!
Hi there, when do the markets start. I’m coming over this weekend and have a feeling I’m just too early? We arrive tomorrow Friday 18/11 – thanks!
Hi Rox,
most christmas markets start in the last week of November.
The one at Potsdamer Platz already already started so you can go there.
Have fun!
Hi
We are visiting Berlin from Monday 21st Novemember to Weds 23rd Novemember.
I was wondering which would be the best Christmas market for us to visit. We are staying at the Best Western hotel at Kantstrasse.
Thanks
Hi Inch,
you can easily reach the christmas market at the Gedachtniskirche.
But the other markets are also easy to reach and the list are my personal favorites.
Have fun!
Hi! I’m staying in Berlin from 28/12 to 02/01. I’m from Argentina and it’s summer here in Christmas so Christmas Markets are rare.. that’s why I’d like to visit as many Christmas Markets as possible (Just read some of them are operable during those dates!) so thank you SO MUCH for the info…
Would you recommend to go to the Brandeburg Gate at an early hour? It’s my first time there!
Thanks 🙂
Hi Vanesa,
do you mean going to Brandenburger Tor on New Years Eve? Yes, you should definitely go there as early as possible.
Here is the link to the full article with New Years Eve parties, I explained a bit more over there.
Have fun!
Hi I’m heading to Berlin staying at Ivbergs Hotel on 1/12/16 can you tell me where the best Christmas markets are??? Thanks in advance
Hi Kathy,
you are not far from the Weihnachtsmarkt at the Gedächtniskirche. You can also visit the one at Schloss Charlottenburg, it is really cool as well.
Have a great time in Berlin!
Hi we are coming to Berlin in December for two nights to visit the sights and Christmas Markets. We are staying at the Hotel Come in, where are good Markets from there and best travel method.
Hi Bart,
the christmas market at the Gedachtniskirche would be the easiest to visit for you. You could walk there.
Have fun!
Hi Job, I am visiting mid December, Do you know of any markets with mainly adults, more alcohol orientated? Also, any good Bier Kellers around?
I am stopping at MEININGER Hotel Berlin Hauptbahnhof if this helps. Thanks
Hi Kylie,
I know that at the market at “Roten Rathaus” many people sit and drink till late and there is some music at the christmas market at Potsdamer Platz.
Regarding the Bier-Kellers: If you visit the first christmas market you could also visit Augustiner at Gendarmenmarkt, it is not really a beer-keller but you will like it.
Have fun!
Good post! Can you tell me where is located the biggest christmas tree in berlin? And please also give me advice which area is better ro stay thank you
Hi Anna,
I am not sure what the biggest of all is but there is a very large one at Gendarmenmarkt (number one in this list).
Have fun!
So is there only one chirstmas market open winterwelt this time 11.11-15.11? I booked flights one week too early 🙁 Do you have anyt tips what chirstmas things we can do when we come berlin 11.11-15.11? Girlfriend is crazy about christmas 🙂 And also if you have some tips what we should do at Berlin first time there. Greetings Toni Salo Finland.
Hi Toni,
yeah, you really booked the trip one week to early but the Winterwelt is a cool christmas market so you could at least spend some time over there.
Furthermore you will get in the christmas atmosphere because all the shopping-centers will also be decorated in November. For other activities you can just check out some of the articles on this blog.
Have fun!
hello im going to berlin in december and my hotel is NOVUM HOTEL FRANKE AM KURFURSTENDAMM . is this good location? and which christmas market is near?
Hi Nia,
yeah the location is fine. You can walk to the Christmas Market at the Gedachtniskirche.
Have fun!
Hi Job,
Just stumbled upon your blog and I’ve enjoyed browsing through your blog post! I’m visiting a friend in Berlin (who just moved there) on 1st-2nd January. A bit awkward timing to catch the tail end of festive season, and I was wondering if Winterwelt at Potsdamer Platz would be the only place we can go ice-skating on New Year’s Day? Thanks!
Mel
Hi Mel,
as far as I know that is the best place to visit on these days.
You could of course google and try to find normal iceskating-rings (which have nothing to do with Christmas).
Good luck!
Hi was just wondering what are the prices like at the Berlin xmas market as I travelling with few friends 28 November til 4 December
Hi Bernadette,
the entrance is mostly free or just 1 Euro.
The drinks and food are a bit more expensive than in normal restaurants and bars in Berlin.
A beer would be 3-4 Euro and food will be between 3-6 Euro. So still very reasonable.
Have fun!
Hi, I will visit Berlin 23rd to 26th Dec with mom. May I ask that will the public transport open daily? As I read, it looks like the first Christmas market is very popular. Any suggestion where should I stay is close to this market and is close to center city but not expensive? Or Berlin Hbf? As I will travel with mom so I have to make the trip less hassle for her. ideal is close to the station which allow us to transport to and from airport. I can’t read German and I am worry I am gonna be get loss.
Hi Mimi,
the public transport in Berlin is easy to understand and also running during the holidays.
If you want to stay close to the first Christmas Market you can best stay around Friedrichstraße. There are some large hotels there, just google “Hotel Berlin Friedrichstraße”.
Have fun in Berlin!
Hi.. thankyou so much for listing this… A really great help.
I don’t suppose you could show the locations on a map?.. I want to book a hotel in a suitable location for walking to the Christmas markets? I’ve never been to Berlin yet.. looking forward to it though
Hi Neil,
I actually showed them on the map in the beginning but the website got a lot slower and it did not look good on mobile devices.
I will consider a photo where you can see the locations.
Thanks for the tip!
i love your Berlin guides, but I wish you hadn’t featured ivory as a specific attraction at your favorite Christmas market. I’m sure there are plenty of other handicrafts you could popularize without controversy (and without promoting cruelty to wildlife). Thanks for all the other info you provide!
Hi Emi,
thanks for your comment.
I didn’t look at it that way and just got that information from the official website of that christmas-market. I totally agree with your point of view and deleted that part from the post.
Have a nice day!
Hi me and my boyfriend are visiting Berlin for the first time for 3 days on 6th December. We are staying at the titanic hotel, as well as the Christmas markets what shouldn’t we miss ?
Hi Kelly,
there are several Titanic-Hotels in Berlin so I am not sure how long it will take you to the markets.
But the public transport is awesome, you will most likely not need that much time to reach the markets.
Have a good time!
Hi – I am travelling to Berlin 1st-3rd December to take my girlfriend to some Christmas markets. She loves Christmas!! We are staying in Charlottenburg, whilst I’ll certainly take her to the number 1 in the list could you recommend other markets that are close by? Also, would you recommend anything specific to do? There’s so much we couldn’t possibly fit everything in!! Many thanks
Hi Martin,
you should also visit the christmas market at Schloss Charlottenburg. It is very beautiful.
There are many articles about other activities in Berlin on this blog: Just have a look 🙂
Cheers!
hi
a group of siz adults want to come to berlin for the xmas markets/bars/restaurants we want to stay very central so we have minimal travelling as we only have 2 days. Where would you recommend staying?
thanks
Hi Kim,
that all depends on your preferences: It is probably best to use google or a website like Booking.com.
Good luck!
Hi thanks for the detailed description you gave us about Christmas markets in Berlin. Together with my wife we will be visiting Berlin in dec between the 7th abd 11th. This is my wife’s dream as she loves Christmas decorations. Which market do you most suggest to visits for these decorations
Hi Sin,
it is probably best to visit the first one in this list.
Hope you can find what your wife is looking for.
Have fun!
Hi there my daughter and I are staying at the Melia Berlin from 18th-21st December we are hoping to be within walking distance of most markets can you tell me if our hotel is in a good location and what markets it is near please? Thanks for your great blog so informative 🙂
Hi Dondays,
you will be able to walk to the number one in this list. The walk will be fun as well because there are many shops etc. on the way.
Also the other markets are easy to reach by train (S-Bahn).
Have fun!
Hi I will be visiting berlin with my kids and staying at Holiday Inn Express Berlin City Centre West , are there any christmas markets near hotel ??
Hi Damian,
you can walk to the last christmas-market in this list. The other ones are easy to reach by train (S-Bahn).
Have fun!
hi, I am visiting in December with my boyfriend from the 23rd-27th. We are staying in Goodmans living. Is it easy to travel from that area to the markets? would it be possible to buy some sort of a travel pass for the 5 days we’re there rather than having to purchase individual tickets ? also are clubs open on the 26th as its my birthday, if so where is the best place to go ? Thank you 🙂
Hi Lucy,
you could visit the Christmas-market at the Gedächtniskirche. Besides that there is a beautiful Christmas-market at Schloss-Charlottenburg. I might list that one soon.
You can buy a pass like that on every train- and subway-station. It is also a bit cheaper.
There are plenty of parties around Christmas, keep an eye on my party-calender: The one for December will be published in the end of November.
Have fun!
Hello
I’m looking at having my hen do in Berlin love the idea of Christmas markets but are there any cocktail bars/bars etc to do after the markets and where is best to stay please
Thank you Simone x
Hi Sim,
there are cocktail-bars all around Berlin so you can just visit a Market and find your way to a bar/club after.
You can also enjoy the Glühwein on the Markets itself.
The best place to stay for the markets it probably around Alexanderplatz but the public transport is great so anywhere inside the ring would be fine.
Have fun!
Hi Job
Me & my husband will be spending New Years Eve in Berlin. We don’t like Huge parties so want to avoid the Gate and also not into clubbing. Would you say the New Years Celebrations at the Christmas Markets would be a good way to bring in the New Year or is there anywhere else you could recommend for a more Romantic New Year maybe?
Thank you
Hi Amie,
the Christmas Markets are normally not open around midnight so you will not be able to celebrate it there.
I agree that the Brandenburger Tor is quite crowded but you might find some cool places somewhere around it. Just go for a walk and check out some touristic spots in Berlin. You might find small groups of people there and this might just suit your needs.
Good luck!
My wife and I are travelling to Berlin to visit the Christmas markets we are staying in the hotel indigo at Alexanderplatz ? What would be the most cove net markets for us to visit and are other market within comfortable walking distance
Hi Robin,
your hotel has a great location. There are at least 3 Christmas-Markets within walking distance. There is one directly at Alexanderplatz, another at Roten Rathaus und a third one behind Alexa.
Have fun!
Hi
Going to berlin in december with girlfriend,can you tell me what xmas market is best for light and carol songs want a good xmas feel.
Thank you
Hi Terry,
I guess the one at Roten Rathaus would suit your preferences very well.
Have a good time!
Hi there, Of the Christmas Markets you mentioned, which would be the best for authentic items, not made in China stuff!! Thanks.
Hi, I would say the first one in the list would be the best place for autentic products.
Have fun!
Hi, I am looking at coming to Berlin for the christmas markets in December. Is there a hotel you would recommend which is central to the markets. 4 and 5 star?
Thanks
Hi Beth,
I am not that much up to date about hotels because I do not need to use them. But the public transport is splendid in Berlin so you could basically choose any Hotel within 5km of them markets.
Cheers!
Me my wife and 14 year old son will be visiting Berlin from 21st December to 8th January we will be living in NH Berlin Mitte Hotel in central area. what do you suggest we can do in these 18 Days
thanks
Hi Gordon,
it would be great for you guys to visit some Christmas-Markets. You can also go shopping and obviously do some sightseeing.
Have a good time!
Hi Job,
I’m hoping to go this year with my 2 year old. Are there any of the markets that you’d recommend that are more family friendly?
Hi Annette,
most of the christmas markets in Berlin are great for children as well. It will probably be best to visit them in the early-afternoon when its not so busy yet.
The one at Alexa also has a lot of children-attractions.
Have fun!
Hi me and my husband are visiting this year we love live music. Which will be the best place also weekdays. Thanks
Hi Ems,
a place where you can find live-music quite often is the following hostel: St. Christophers Inn
Have fun!
Hi we are visiting Betlin from 5-8 December with 4 children and they want to go to Pitsdamer Platz for the toboggan slope aswell as checkpoint Charlie..we also want to try the market with Ferris wheel and rollercoaster…please could you recommend a hotel which would be a good base? We are on a bit of a budget..! Thank you
Hi Karen,
if you are on a budget I would suggest finding a hotel in a different part of town. Around Potsdamer Platz most hotels are more expensive and public transport is great in Berlin.
I do not really have recommendations but it is probably best to use a website like Booking.com.
Good luck!
Oh wow, Berlin at Christmas looks amazing!
Hi Michael,
yes they are really worth a visit. Hope you can visit Berlin this Christmas 🙂
Best wishes!
I really love your blog Job 😀 is full of details what I like it! Going to visit all these Weihnachtsmarkts 😀
hey, i would like to know if any off this Christmas markets will stay open between 27/12 -1/12? and i was wondering if we can feel the Christmas “spirit” during this dates? many thanks!
Hi Mila,
The opening-hours which are written under the markets above are correct. So some of them are open when you are in town and other are not.
Good luck!
Hi, thank you for this informative site with posts. I am here in Berlin for 3 days , I have found all the info great and v helpful. Thank you everyone. Keep posting and happy shopping. Monty
Hi Monty,
Thanks for the compliment!
When do the big sales start in Berlin
we will be there drom Dec 4 to Dec 7
Where are good sales in what moels or shopping aereas?
Thank you
Hi Moshik,
The big sales will not be offered before January. But there will probably be some shops with sale already in December.
Have a look in Alexa or one of the other shopping-center listed above.
Good luck!
I can’t seem to find the map with them all there? Please could you send to me direct or point it out more clearly please, I’m staying in the Grand City Hotel Berlin East, would you recommend the tram / walking? Bearing in mind i don’t know any German
Thanks
Hi Luuuu,
It will be most easy for you to reach the christmas markets at Alexanderplatz. You can reach them by train quite easily.
I cannot send you a map but Alexanderplatz is the central meeting-point in Berlin so you will be able to find it.
Have a great time!
we are visiting Berlin during Christmas and wondering whether everything is shut on the 25th and 26th?
like tali above, We want to ask if the museums are open on these dates and the christmas markets?
Thank you
Hi Sharon,
Most shops are closed during these days but there are several christmas-markets who will still open their doors (with different opening-hours though).
The opening-hours are written in this article and you can check the links of the christmas-markets if you need more information.
Have a great time!
Hi, myself and my friend have booked Berlin (Wyndham Berlin Excelsior) and am wondering are we far from the shopping malls and Christmas Markets?
Hi Mary,
The hotel is in the west of Berlin but it will be easy to reach everything. The S-Bahn Zoologischer Garten can bring you to Alexanderplatz in less than 20 minutes. There are also plenty of shops and a Xmas Market nearby at Kurfurstendamm.
Good luck!
Hi. Thanks for all the info. My partner and I are travelling with a 16 month old. We won’t be at the Christmas markets in the evening but will it be ok to walk round with a pram or will it be far too hectic? Are there any particular markets that would be ideal for young children. Thanks
Hi Claire,
Thanks for your comment. Most of the christmas markets are great for children. Probably the one which fits the most would be the one at Alexanderplatz (Am Roten Rathaus).
Furthermore I would advice going between 14.00 and 17.00. It will be more quiet on the markets.
Good luck!
Are the dates of the christmas markets correct as of now ? Because the market in Potsdamer platz and the one in Gedachtmiskirche both end on 3 January has 2015 instead of 2016.
Thanks
Hi Geoff,
Thanks for your comment. I did indeed forget to change the year of one market.
But yes, all the dates which are in the article right now should be correct. I took them from the websites of the markets themselves.
Have fun!
Hi
Your website is great and very informative.
Me and my partner are looking at coming to Berlin and staying at the titanic deluxe.
I was just wondering if we would be central for all the markets you have mentioned above and which would be the closest one.
Many thanks
Hi Rachel,
Yes, that is a very central location. The public transport in Berlin is pretty awesome anyway, so do not worry about not reaching the markets.
Best wishes,
Job
Thank you for all this information. I was wondering if the (larger) Christmas markets are busy (that is, filled with people) earlier on in the month of December. I enjoy the crowds and fun. I will be visiting from late Nov. until the 6th of December. Thanks in advance for any help.
Hi Eugene,
It largely depends on the day and time. During the weekends and between 18.00 – 21.00 it can be quite crowded but on other moments it will be all right.
Good luck and enjoy Berlin!
hi wasjust wondering which market would be closest to hotel eden am zoo we have just booked to stay there from 26th november thanks
Hi Matt,
If the hotel is located at Zoologischer Garten, the Christmas Market at the Gedachtniskirche would be on walking distance.
Best wishes!
Firstly found this site very helpful,just booked up this week to visit Berlin in dec.Staying at hotel Ivbergs premium,can you tell me the closest market to the hotel,cannot wait to see some real German Christmas markets.
Hi Ian,
Great that you are coming to Berlin. The closest market would be the one at Zoologischer Garten, you could walk there.
Best wishes,
Job
Firstly, many thanks for this site and information , it’s really useful.
As a kid I lived in (West) Berlin during the early 1980’s and used to love the Christmas Markets.
We used to live in Gatow, so used to often visit the Spandau market each year.
I have arranged to visit Berlin in December and am excited about returning and showing my wife and 10 year old daughter the City.
We are staying quite central and I wondered if Spandau was regarded as a good market still and if you thought it was worth travelling out there for it, or best to stay at the ones nearer the centre?
Mfg,
Rob
Hi Rob,
Thanks for your comment. I believe the Spandau-Market is still one of the better markets in Berlin. But it always depends on what you are looking for.
The public Transport will take you there quick and convenient, so I guess it would be a good idea to go back there 🙂
Great. Many thanks for the reply.
Regards,
Rob
Totally loved the magical Gendarmenmarkt…….wonderful recommendation!
Hi Janine, thanks for your comment. Nice that we could help 🙂
Merry Christmas!
Thank you so much for this. How helpful!!!! Merry Christmas!!!
Hi Michelle, thanks for the compliment. Glad we can help 🙂
Cheers!
Fantastic info ….. We are coming 1st weekend in December staying in the circus hotel … Are we able to travel to most of the markets from hear ?
Hi She’ll,
That should not be a problem. The public transport is very good in Berlin!
Have fun in Berlin!
I’ve booked to go in mid December and we are staying at Ivbergs Premium at Kleiststrassee 9-12, is this quite far from the main markets? Are the markets still accessible by metro / bus and if so which is quicker to get?
Thanks in advance
Hi Ali,
You can walk to the xmas-market at the Gedachtniskirche. Other markets are about 15 minutes by train. Easy to reach.
Have fun and good luck!
Hi,
I am visiting Berlin from the 21rst till the 24th of November. Leaving Monday 24th at night. I would love to visit the Weihnachtszauber am Gendarmenmarkt. I just want to make sure if it will be open for public on the 24th. Thanks
Hi Sarah,
The website states that the market will open on 24.11 so normally this should not be a problem.
Best wishes!
Hi,
This might sound silly, but which airport is best to go to for Berlin Christmas Markets? or are they both pretty central?
Thanks in advance!
Hi Leoni,
I am not sure that I understand what you mean? You want to fly to Berlin and go directly to a christmas market?
The center of Berlin is easy to reach from both airports. It depends on which market you want to visit. All of them can be reached within 30-45 minutes from both airports.
Have a good time!
Hi
Great review I’m looking to take my girlfriend as a suprise. Which area would you reckon stating in to be in a good location to visit the top 4 in your list ?
Thanks
Sam
Hi Sam,
Berlin has great public transport so I would suggest you choose a nice accomodation and don`t worry about the distance to the markets too much.
There is a little map at the bottom of the article, as you can see most of the markets are located very central.
If you have any other questions, just let me know!
Two of the markets are actually around the corner of the NH Berlin Alexanderplatz.
Have fun!
Hi,
Im looking to take my mum to Berlin on the 28th of November for two nights I was looking at staying at the NH Berlin Alexanderplatz how far is this from the markets you have said above?
Thanks
Smith
Hallo Smith,
I would not worry about the distance that much. Berlin has great public transport so you will reach all the xmas-markets within 30 minutes.
Two of the markets are actually around the corner of the NH Berlin Alexanderplatz.
Have fun!
Hello, thanks for this article; I was under the impression the Christmas market at Gendarmenmarkt was normally open until the 31st (don’t they have a NYE event there?). Is it closing sooner this year?
Thanks
Hi Parsley,
The website writes that the christmas market is open till 31 December. On that day the market will only be open till 18.00.
I cannot really remember till when it was open last year but you might be right.
Have a good time!
I am staying in the Adina aparthotel check point charlie from 19-21 December.
Can anyone recommend what the closest markets are to this hotel. I will also have 2 children with me aged 14 and 11.
Thank you
Hi Jikoryu,
The first market is not far from Checkpoint Charlie. But the market close to Alexa, with the rollercoaster, is probably something your children will enjoy.
Good luck!
Hello,
We’re visiting Berling during Christmas 21st-26th of December.
I have been looking at many sites but cant understand which markets, shops and tourists attraction operates on the 24th and which on the 25th and which are closed altogether. I am trying to arrange a schedule so we can see most and wont sit idly. Are there markets open on the 24th? What is a good idea to do on the night of the 24th? And is everything closed on the 25th?
Can you help me please?
Thank you!
Hi Tali,
Thanks for your comment and great that you are coming to Berlin in December.
All the Christmas Markets are open during Christmas. Most of them close around 14.00. I wrote some extra text in the summaries under every Christmas Market.
Have a great time and let me know if you have any additional questions!
Hiya, thanks for all the info. How do you rate the Market at Charlottenburg Palace?
Hi Alex, I have never been there so can’t speak of own experiences. But I have heard many good stories about it. Location should be great!
Good luck!
the market at Charlottenburg should be among your grouping of five. Just an opinion.
Hi Jordy,
You are totally right. Have been planning to add it to the article for a while but have not found enough time to implement it.
But I do like that xmas-market a lot myself.
Thanks for the tip.
Hi, the charlottenburg market is beautiful! We went last year and they had a band playing at times infront of the palace, really nice atmosphere and the palace was lit up in lots of different lights. Worth a visit in my opinion, we’ll be going back this year!
Hi Lucy, thanks for sharing your feedback. It is indeed a great christmas market 🙂
The placemark Spandauer Str in your map is wrong. The market is in a different Spandauer Str in Berlin-Mitte
Yes, you are completely right. I haven’t checked the Maps-Plugin careful enough.
I changed it now. Thanks a lot for your tip!!!