The Best Christmas Markets In Berlin
You simply cannot visit Germany during the Christmas season without hitting up one of its famous Christmas markets! Berlin is no exception to this rule. The city transforms into a winter wonderland during the holiday season, boasting over 100 Christmas markets.
With so many options, choosing the right one can feel overwhelming. This guide helps you navigate the festive landscape and discover the market that best suits your taste.
Plan Your Visit
- Dates: Most markets open at First Advent or the third week of November, with a few starting even earlier.
- Accommodation: There are markets located in every corner of Berlin, so don’t stress about the right location! However, central locations like Alexanderplatz, Warschauer Straße, or Zoologischer Garten provide easy access.
- Best Time of Day: Christmas markets are always popular with evenings and weekends being the most crowded. For a more relaxed experience, try going weekdays before 5 pm and weekends before 2 pm.
- Budget: Entrance is usually free. However, expect to spend €10-15 for food and drinks. Attractions typically cost €2-5 each. (I miss the days of €2.50 glühwein!)
Best Christmas Markets in Berlin
From historic squares bathed in festive lights to charming eco-friendly markets showcasing sustainable products, Berlin caters to all interests. Here’s a peek at some of the city’s most enchanting markets:
1. Weihnachtszauber Bebelplatz (Gendarmenmarkt)
If I had to pick just one traditional Christmas market in Berlin, this would be my choice. This market is usually held at Gendarnmenmarkt but due to repairs in the square, it’s currently being held at Bebelplatz. (Admittedly it’s not quite as pretty as Gendarnmenmarkt but it’s also great.) However, the same vendors remain. Get your fondue, spiced nuts, glühwein and more while watching performances on the stage. This is one of the few markets with an entrance fee but even so, be aware that it gets quite crowded in the evenings.
- When: November 25 – December 31, 2024
- Hours: Sun-Thurs 12-22, Fri + Sat 12-23, Christmas Eve 12-18, New Year’s Eve 12-24
- Entrance: €2 (Free until 2 PM on weekdays except Dec 24, 25, 26 and 31 . Free for children under 12)
- Address: Bebelpl, 10117 (Mitte)
- More info here
2. Lucia Christmas Market at Kulturbrauerei
Looking for something a bit different? Immerse yourself in Nordic culture at the Lucia Christmas Market (named after the Nordic goddess of light). Instead of the ubiquitous glühwein, warm yourself up with some Glogg. Sample traditional Scandinavian food, browse handicrafts, and enjoy live entertainment as you warm yourself by crackling log fires.
- When: November 25 – December 22, 2024
- Hours: Mon-Fri 15-22, Sat+Sun 13-22
- Entrance: free
- Address: Schönhauser Allee 36, 10435 (Prenzlauer Berg)
- More info here
3. Winter World at Potsdamer Platz
In the mood for a Winter Wonderland? Make your way to the Christmas market at Postdamer Platz. This small market has all the normal favorites: apres-ski style Hüttengaudi and stalls brimming with crêpes, bratwurst and glühwein (of course). However, this market stands out for its 70-meter-long 12-meter-high toboggan run. (It’s the largest one in Europe!)
- Dates: November 1 – 1 January 2025
- Hours: 10-22 daily (until 16 on Christmas Eve)
- Entrance: free
- Address: Potsdamer Platz 1, 10785 (Mitte)
4. Berliner Weihnachtszeit at Roten Rathaus (Alexanderplatz)
I used to skip this market because I associated it with the smaller market at Alexanderplatz. However, it’s its own separate thing and is one of my favorite Christmas markets for one big reason: the impressive 50m high Ferris wheel. Yes, it’s kind of expensive to ride it but I love seeing the view of the Christmas market, the skating rink set around the Neptune fountain, and the TV Tower. This one is also family-friendly, well-stocked with both traditional and non-traditional treats. I always make a stop for the Russian hot Christmas drink with cherries and whipped cream.
- Dates: November 25 – December 30, 2024, closed Christmas Eve
- Hours: Mon-Fri 12-22, Sat+ Sun 11-22 (Dec 25+26 12-21, Dec 30 12-20)
- Entrance: free, ice skating €5
- Address: St. Mary’s Church & Roten Rathaus (Red Town Hall) Karl-Liebknecht-Straße, 10178 (Mitte)
5. Medieval Christmas Market at the RAW Compound
Here’s another Christmas market that stands out. The Historical Christmas market in Friedrichshain offers Christsmas favorites with a medieval twist, with entertainment inspired by the past and activities such as axe throwing. This is a great one to hit up with a group, like I did last year. Just be warned the grounds can be rather wet. (Medieval indeed!)
- Dates: November 14 – December 22, 2024
- Hours: Mon–Fri 15-22, Sat + Sun 12-22 (Closed Nov 24)
- Entrance: Tues-Fri €3, Sat + Sun €4
- Address: Revaler Str. 99, 10245 (Friedrichshain) entrance Dirschauer Str.
- More info
6. Schloss Charlottenburg
Charlottenburg Palace provides the stunning backdrop for this traditional Christmas market. Feast on all your Christmas market favorites and then take in the projected light show or a ride on the carousel. This one is great for families.
- Dates: November 25 – December 29, 2024
- Hours: Mon-Thurs 13-22, Fri-Sun 12-22
- Entrance: Free
- Address: Spandauer Damm 20, 14059 (Charlottenburg)
- More info
7. Christmas Avenue At Nollendorfplatz
What says Christmas like rainbows. drag queens and dildos? If you’re looking for something fun and LGBTQIA+, head to this small market tucked under the U2 tracks at Nollendorfplatz. Grab yourself some gifts from LGBTQIA+ vendors then warm yourself up with some glühwein. (It’s pink of course.) Check the calendar for performance times and don’t forget to tip!
- Dates: November 8th-December 23rd 2024, closed Nov 17 & 24
- Hours: Mon-Thurs 16-22, Fri, Sat + Sun 15-22
- Entrance: free
- Address: Nollendorfplatz, 10777 Berlin
- More info here
8. Alt-Rixdorf Weihnachtsmarkt
On the second Advent every year, you can make your way to charming Rixdorfplatz in Neukölln for a Christmas market with a neighborhood (kiez) feeling. This is my favorite Christmas market in Berlin but be sure to catch it while you can! It’s on for only one weekend every season. (And that also means I will be there no matter what the weather!) Enjoy your mulled wine and roasted chestnuts then take a peek at the blacksmith at work.
- Dates & Hours: Fri December 6th from 17-21 Sat December 7th from 14-21,
Sun December 8th 14-20 - Entrance: free
- Address: Richardpl. 28, 12055 (Neukölln)
9. Lichtenberger Winterseit at Landsberger Allee
Calling all adventure seekers! If the normal Christmas market scene doesn’t do it for you, try out the Winterzauber market. Think a fun fair atmosphere: roller coasters, wild spinning rides, and carousels, all paired with more traditional glühwein stands.
- Dates: November 01 to December 28, 2024 (Closed November 24 & December 24)
- Hours: Mon-Thurs 14-21:30, Fri + Sat 14-23, Sun 12-21
- Entrance: free
- Address: Landsberger Allee 300, 10365 (Lichtenberg)
- More info here
10. Christmas Market at Alt-Spandau
If you’re seeking an authentic and old-fashioned experience, head to this market in the Old Town of Spandau. Set on the cobblestone streets of a pedestrian-only zone, this market boasts a live nativity and lots of entertainers. (Think: a Renaissance fair vibes!) However, the food options here are from the modern age, with options from around the world.
- Dates: November 25-December 22, 2024
- Hours: Sun-Thurs 11-20, Sat+Sun 11-22
- Entrance: free
- Address: Marktstraße 10, 13597 (Spandau)
- More info here
11. Christmas Market at Alexanderplatz
While it’s definitely not my favorite, I usually end up at the Christmas market at Alexanderplatz at some point during the season. It’s a great place to make a pit stop if you’re shopping in Mitte and is also conveniently located near the bigger Christmas market at Roten Rathaus. Don’t forget to take a photo of the large Christmas pyramid over the large bar.
- Dates: November 25-December 26, 2024
- Hours: 11-22
- Entrance: free
- Address: Alexanderplatz, 10178 (Mitte)
12. Christmas Market at Breitscheidplatz
If you’re shopping on the famous Kurfürstendamm, this market offers the perfect break. It’s also open later in the year than most markets so you can still get the experience even if you arrive in Berlin after Christmas.
- Dates: November 25, 2024 – January 5, 2025 (Open during Christmas)
- Hours: Sun-Thurs 11-21, Fri + Sat 11-22
- Entrance: free
- Address: Kurfürstendamm 237, 10789 (Charlottenburg)
- More info here
Bonus Berlin Christmas Market List
- Christmas Market at Lehmann’s Farm Check out this Christmas market in a unique farm setting for high-quality handicrafts, and a family-friendly atmosphere. Dates: December 6-8 and December 13-15, 2024
- All-inclusive Christmas market at Spreespeicher: Be warned that this market comes with a hefty entry fee. However, that also means you can spend hours enjoying all the food and drink that’s included.
- Advent Market at Domäne Dahlem Escape the city bustle and discover the picturesque Domäne Dahlem estate. Enjoy festive treats, browse unique handicrafts, and soak in the idyllic atmosphere. Tractor rides, a carousel, and live music complete the experience.
- Nordic Christmas Market at Britz Castle Embark on a Nordic fairytale adventure at Britz Castle. Gather around crackling fireplaces, explore rustic stalls brimming with traditional crafts, and witness captivating performances that transport you to another era.
- Christmas Market around the Humboldt Forum There’s a brand-new Christmas market experience nestled around the controversial Humboldt Forum. Browse handcrafted decorations and warm up with mulled wine after exploring the museum’s treasures.
- Kollwitzplatz Eco-Friendly Christmas Market Find eco-friendly and ethically sourced Christmas gifts at Kollwitzplatz. Browse Christmas trees, textiles, and toys, while indulging in delicious organic food from local farmers.
- Advent at Karl-August-Platz Uncover unique treasures at Karl-August-Platz, a market dedicated to handcrafted goods. Discover high-quality ceramics, jewelry, and art prints, making it the perfect place to find special gifts.
- Christmas Market at the Tierpark: Enjoy festive lights, animal encounters, and festive treats in this family-friendly setting.
- Sustainable Christmas Market on Sophienstraße: A eco-friendly market with unique handmade products and sustainable practices.
Other Berlin Christmas Experiences
These aren’t traditional Christmas markets but they are worth considering for a different kind of experience.
- Christmas Botanical Garden: Enjoy a magical light show at the Botanical Garden. This one’s a big hit with the families every year.
- Orankelichter at Orankesee Lido: Check out this festive event with live music, theatre performances, and a cozy atmosphere.
Berlin Christmas Market FAQ
- When do the Berlin Christmas markets start? Most markets open on First Advent (November 25, 2024) but some open earlier.
- Which Christmas market is the most popular? As judged by the long queues, the Christmas Market at Gendarmenmarkt seems to be the most popular.
- Are there free entry Christmas markets in Berlin? Yes! In fact, most Christmas markets have free entry, while only a select few charge a fee.
- Where can I find a family-friendly Christmas market in Berlin? Many Christmas markets in Berlin are family-friendly but I suggest the Rotes Rathaus market or the market at Lehmans Farm.
- Which Christmas market has the best views of Berlin? The Ferris wheel at the Rotes Rathhaus market offers picturesque views.
- Can I rent ice skates at Berlin Christmas markets? Yes! Rent ice skates at the Rotes Rathaus market.
- Which Christmas market is the most romantic? The Christmas Market at Charlottenburg Palace, with its stunning palace backdrop, is a romantic choice.
- Which Christmas market has the best food? Foodies should head to the Spreespeicher Christmas market for an all-inclusive food-oriented experience.
This list is just a starting point. Each market offers its own charm. (Always double-check opening hours and performance times before making any plans!)
No matter what you’re looking for, Berlin’s Christmas markets have something for everyone. So grab a cup of mulled wine, explore the festive stalls, and enjoy the magic of the season!
Ready for more? Check out our Berlin holiday gift guide, our list of the 10 weirdest things to do in Berlin or 50 most photo-worthy locations in Berlin.
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