10 Best Christmas Markets In Berlin
The German capital, known for its rich history and vibrant culture, comes alive with an enchanting array of Christmas markets that capture the spirit of the holidays, with over 80 magical Christmas markets sprouting up across Berlin. Christmas markets, known as ‘Weihnachtsmärkte’ in German, have become a cherished tradition.
From the historic settings of Charlottenburg Palace to the lively ambiance of Alexanderplatz, join us as we explore the top festive destinations that make Berlin a truly magical place during the most wonderful time of the year. Here are some of the best Christmas markets in Berlin.
1Berlin Christmas Market (WeihnachtsZauber at Gendarmenmarkt)
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Dates: 27th November to 30th December 2023
Germany’s capital city has over 70 different markets for you to choose from, but WeihnachtsZauber is considered to be the best Christmas market in Germany. Located in Gendarmenmarkt Square, close to some of Berlin’s most historical buildings: the Berlin State Opera House, St. Hedwig’s Cathedral and the stunning listed Alte Bibliothek, the historic location adds to the market’s charm and provides a regal backdrop. A festive Christmas ambiance takes shape through an array of of over a thousand sparkling Christmas lights, baubles and large sparkling Christmas tree.
You’ll find a whole host of culinary offerings, from traditional Bavarian and Austrian dishes such as Neuburger Rahmbrot, as well as gourmet delicacies served in the luxury heated pop-up restaurants. Swiss fondue and wiener schnitzel are just some of the dishes to be found. The arts and crafts tent has plenty of unique exhibitors displaying their treasures, and there are multiple performances such as musicians, dancers, acrobats and even fire performers.
Note – From 2022 to 2024, due to a construction site, the Christmas market WeihnachtsZauber will not take place on the Gendarmenmarkt as usual, but will be relocated to the nearby Bebelplatz.
Where To Stay:Â Â There are quite a few good hotels options within easy access to the Gendarmenmarkt Square including : Hotel de Rome, Hotel Luc, Regent Berlin
2Weihnachtsmarkt at Charlottenburg Palace
Visit Berlin / Wolfgang Scholvein
Dates: 27th November to 31st December 2023
Held at one of Berlin’s most elegant spots, the Weihnachtsmarkt at Charlottenburg Palace is a jewel amongst Berlin Xmas markets, offering a regal touch to the festive experience. Set against the stunning backdrop of Charlottenburg Palace, the former residence of Queen Sophie Charlotte, the market boasts a historical and elegant ambiance that sets it apart from other Berlin Xmas markets.
As night falls, the Weihnachtsmarkt at Charlottenburg Palace illuminates over 100 international exhibitors selling delicate glass-blown ornaments, traditional nutcrackers, and glazed fruit tarts bursting with jams and spreads. Wander through as you sip a steaming cup of glühwein or hot spiced cider while kids line up to decorate star-shaped gingerbread cookies with icing and sprinkles. Inside the 2 heated tents, restaurants will be serving exceptional Berlin cuisine.
 The palace provides a majestic setting for the market which is adorned with sparkling lights, charming stalls and a towering Christmas tree bringing with it the magic of the season.
3Schloßplatz in Berlin-Mitte
Dates:Â 1st December 2023 to 7th January 2024
 For the first time in Berlin you can experience a winter market on Schloßplatz in Berlin-Mitte with classics such as roasted almonds, tree shavings, Feuerzangenbowle and various gift items. With atmospherically illuminated facades, international specialties and high-quality handicrafts makes the Schloßplatz a great meeting point in Berlin.
This Christmas market in Berlin boasts views of the Lustgarten, the Museum Island and the Berlin Cathedral. Expect further highlights in the Schlüterhof of the Humboldt Forum such as animations, elaborately produced using video mapping, create a special atmosphere. The projections are designed especially for this location and artistically dynamize the baroque facades in the Schlüterhof and around the Schlossplatz. Additionally, the winter market offers a daily changing program with offers especially for children and families. Wintermarkt-schlossplatz.deÂ
4Alexanderplatz Christmas Market
Visit Berlin / Wolfgang Scholvein
Dates:Â 27th November to 26th December 2023
Home to one of the largest and most vibrant Christmas markets in Berlin, Alexanderplatz becomes the festive heart of the city. The market showcases the very essence of German Christmas traditions with the largest walk in Ore Mountain pyramid in Europe adorned with over 5000 twinkling lights taking center stage. Delight in the warmth of mulled wine and relish Thuringian bratwurst on the ground floor, all while the tower trumpeters on the second floor contribute to the festive musical ambiance.
A distinctive feature of the Alexanderplatz Christmas Market is the iconic Ferris wheel that graces the skyline and offers panoramic views of the city. An outdoor ice skating rink, amusement rides, and a festive Santa Claus party house add to the market’s attractions.
Stalls offer an array of seasonal delights including handcrafted ornaments, traditional wooden toys and delectable treats with visitors indulging in iconic German specialties like bratwurst, roasted chestnuts and gingerbread cookies. The Alexanderplatz Christmas Market is a delightful fusion of festive cheer and the dynamic spirit of Berlin making it an outstanding German holiday experience.
5Berliner Weihnachtszeit at Roten Rathaus (Berlin Christmas time at the Red Town Hall)
Dates: 27th November 2023 to 7th January 2024
Berliner Weihnachtszeit at Roten Rathaus is a traditional Christmas market that embodies the magical spirit of the season. Nestled by the iconic Berlin City Hall and and St. Mary’s Church, this market is steeped in history and seasonal charm.
Artisans and merchants display their wares throughout the winding alleys, creating a vibrant marketplace. A noteworthy attraction is the expansive pyramid, an authentic piece from the Ore Mountains that has graced Berlin’s Christmas landscape for over two decades. Surrounding the market, perhaps Berlin’s most picturesque ice rink beckons all ages to glide over a vast expanse of more than 600 square meters. After an invigorating skate, seek warmth in larhe mulled wine rooms situated around the ice rink.
A distinctive feature and a visible emblem of Berlin’s Christmas festivities is the towering 50-meter-high Ferris wheel, the tallest of its kind in Berlin, equipped with enclosed panoramic gondolas. Offering panoramic views that stretch as far as the Brandenburg Gate, Potsdamer Platz, and even the radio tower, this landmark is an iconic sight. Notably, it holds the distinction of being the renowned symbol of Munich’s Oktoberfest for over three decades, adding a unique touch to Berlin’s Christmas celebration. Berlinerweihnachtszeit.de
6Winter World on Potsdamer Platz
Dates: 25th November to 26 December 2023
The epitome of winter wonder and festivity, Winter World and Christmas market at Potsdamer Platz is the most extravagant Christmas fair in Berlin. Taking over the historic Potsdamer Platz, this seasonal attraction is the highlight of the festive period.
The area is beautifully decorated with sparkling lights, zip down the impressive 12-meter-high ice slide (Toboggan) and lace up your skates to glide across the adjoining ice rink. Bring your own skates for free admission or rent a pair on-site. Afterwards, warm your hands around a mug of mulled wine or hot chocolate while replenishing on hearty German delicacies like bratwurst and potato pancakes inside the cozy wooden huts like “Schmankerl-Hüttn”.
Take a break from the cold air by visiting the Schmankerl and Salzburger Stiegl huts specializing in Austrian flavors or stay to soak in a live musical performance on the market stage. With a backdrop of Berlin’s iconic skyline, Winter World on Potsdamer Platz is the ultimate destination to enjoy the spirit of the season in Berlin.
Related: Best Christmas Markets in Europe
7Spandau Christmas Market
Visit Berlin / Philip Koschel
Dates: 27th November to 23 December 2023
The Spandau Christmas Market, known as Weihnachtsmarkt Spandau, is a cherished holiday tradition in Berlin offering a charming and traditional festive experience. The historic old town of Spandau provides an idyllic backdrop for a Christmas market steeped in nostalgia. Within Berlin’s most extensive uninterrupted pedestrian zone, numerous huts and stalls are tucked away along quaint alleys and cobblestone streets.
The entire old town has been adorned with festive decorations. The largest of Berlin, Germany’s Christmas markets, this market is a treasure trove of seasonal delights featuring numerous stalls offering handmade crafts, ornaments and culinary treats.
A defining feature of the market is the grand fir tree gracing the market square. Illuminated by thousands of lights, it casts a warm glow over the picturesque huts, creating a truly festive atmosphere. The ceremonial lighting of the tree marks the commencement of the Christmas market each year. Make your way past historic sites like the magnificent Gothic St. Nikolai Church which provides a picture-perfect backdrop for even more local artisan treasures. The Spandau Christmas Market is a true reflection of holiday spirit and is a must-visit during the festive season in Berlin.
8Â Breitscheidplatz Christmas Market
Dates: 27th November 2023 to 7th January 2024
Taking over Breitscheidplatz, this Christmas market in Berlin is a beloved holiday tradition. The market takes place near the iconic Kaiser Wilhelm Memorial Church which stands as a reminder of the city’s history whilst the festive experience offers a warm and inviting atmosphere. Surrounded by the breathtaking city lights and the church’s striking architecture, stalls offer an incredible selection of handmade gifts and seasonal treats.
Visitors can indulge in the delicious traditional German cuisine from sizzling sausages to mulled wine while shopping for unique ornaments and crafts. The twinkling lights and joyful ambiance make it a picturesque setting for families whilst Santa visits daily to give out gifts. The market continues on into the New Year with multiple fireworks displays on New Year’s Eve to welcome in the year ahead.
9Weihnachtsrummel on Landsberger Allee
Josephine Weiss
Dates: 3rd November to 30th December 2023
Berlin’s Landsberger Allee transforms into a dazzling winter carnival scene each Christmas, carrying on the spirited traditions from its predecessor – the beloved Wintertraum am Alexa. As the longest running funfair-style holiday market in Eastern Berlin, familiar thrills fill the air from nostalgic carousels twinkling with lights to screams of delight from flashy rollercoasters.
Spread across 20,000 lively square meters, as one of the best Christmas arkets in Berlin, it seamlessly blends old world charm with modern Christmas fair. Watch in awe as the towering 80-meter swing carousel lights up the night sky, spinning next to a towering Christmas pyramid centerpiece.
When you need a break from the festivities, cozy up by the firepits in the traditional Berlin village filled with local snacks like grilled sausages and hearty potato pancakes. From timeless rides to new adventures, Landsberger Allee brings is a great Christmas market in Berlin to visit with family and friends.
10Lucia Christmas Market
Joachim Loch
Dates:Â 27th November to 22nd December 2023
Transporting visitors to a Scandinavian winter wonderland right in the heart of the German capital, Lucia Christmas Market illuminates the city with its enchanting lights and festive spirit. Bringing the charm of Swedish traditions to Berlin, this Christmas market has a unique character. Immersed in the magic of Nordic Christmas, stalls offer traditional Nordic crafts alongside a selection of delectable treats and warm yuletide beverages including Swedish Glogg.
As an unusual touch, visitors can also relax in the mobile sauna, a Nordic tradition that seems particularly cosy and festive. On St Lucia’s day, the Lucia lantern procession and live performances add to the joyful atmosphere making it the best day to visit Lucia Christmas Market.