‘Tis the season! Christmas is close, and Berliner Christmas Markets finally opened their gates. Get ready for some great comfort food, lots of mulled wine (Glühwein), beautiful lights and jolly people.

The tradition of Christmas markets in Berlin is a cherished and festive part of the holiday season, drawing in both locals and visitors alike. These markets, known as "Weihnachtsmärkte," transform the city into a winter wonderland, radiating a magical atmosphere. It’s a more than 600 year old tradition in Germany, and Berlin's markets are among the oldest and most iconic.

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The heart of the German capital, such as Alexanderplatz and Charlottenburg Palace, comes alive with twinkling lights, beautifully adorned stalls, and the scent of mulled wine and candied nuts. Each market boasts its unique character, offering handmade crafts, artisanal gifts, and a variety of seasonal treats. Visitors can meander through the rows of festively decorated stalls, sipping on white or red Glühwein and sampling traditional German delicacies.

Berlin's Christmas markets also feature lively entertainment, including carol singers, live music, and theatrical performances, creating a joyous ambiance that resonates with the spirit of the season. Families gather to enjoy carousel rides, ice skating, and a visit to Santa Claus. The tradition fosters a sense of community, bringing people together to celebrate the warmth and joy of the holidays in the heart of this vibrant city.

Here are my top seven Christmas Markets.

1. Weihnachtszauber at Bebelplatz

A charming small, very traditional German Christmas market right in the royal heart of the city. Enjoy the view of the State Opera House and the oldest parts of one of the most prestigious Universities in Germany: the Humboldt University. 

• When: 27th of November - 31st of December, Sun-Mon 12pm-10pm, Fr/Sa 12pm-11pm (24th of December: 12pm-6pm)
• Where: Bebelplatz, 10117 Berlin 
• (U2 Stadtmitte or bus 100 or 200)
• Cost: 1€ (no entrance fee for children)

2. Weihnachtsmarkt at Rotes Rathaus (Townhall)

Right next to the Walkative! meeting point (find our tours here!) you’ll find a great gem of a Christmas market, situated at the birthplace of the city of Berlin. The main eye catcher is the ice rink around the famous Neptune fountain. 

• When: 27th of November - 7th of January, Mon-Fr 12pm-10pm, Sa/Su 11am-10pm 
• (24th of December: closed, 25th & 26th: 11am-9pm, 31st: 11am-8pm)
• Where: Rathausstraße 15, 10178 Berlin 
• ( U5 Rotes Rathaus or S/U Alexanderplatz)
• Cost: free of charge

3. Christmas Avenue

Nollendorfplatz is already wrapped up in a wintery and Christmassy look in mid-November: the LGBTIQ Winterdays take place from the 10th to 25th of  November, followed by Christmas Avenue.

The daily stage programme impresses with its variety and high quality standards. Special attention is paid to the performers from the Berlin scene, who present popular show formats such as drag bingo and many more.

• When: 27th of November - 23rd of December, Mo-Fr 4pm-10pm, Sa/Su 3pm-10pm
• Where: Nollendorfplatz, 10787 Berlin
• (U1, U2, U3, U4 Nollendorfplatz)
• Cost: free of charge

4. Weihnachtsmarkt at the Kaiser Wilhelm Memorial Church on Kurfürstendamm

One of the biggest Christmas markets in the city. More than 60 stalls offering toys, handmade souvenirs, jewellery - if you’re looking for an authentic present for your loved ones, this is the place to go. 

• When: 27th of November - 7th of January, Sun-Thu 11am-9pm, Fr/Sa 11am-10pm
• (24th of December: 11am-2pm, 25th & 26th: 1pm-9pm, 31st: 11am,-8pm)
• Where: Breitscheidplatz, 10789 Berlin 
• (S/U Zoologischer Garten)Cost: free of charge

5. Weihnachtsmarkt at Charlottenburg Palace

Without any doubt, one of the most beautiful Christmas markets the city has to offer. Very traditional, the stalls offer mostly handmade goods. Situated in front of a 17th century palace, this is also one of the most romantic ones. 😉

• When: 27th of November - 31st of December, Mo-Su 12pm-10pm
• (24th of December: closed)
• Where: Spandauer Damm 20, 14059 Berlin
• (bus 209 or M45)
• Cost: free of charge

6. Historic Weihnachtsmarkt on the RAW site in Friedrichshain

If you want to enjoy the pre-Christmas period in a mediaeval atmosphere, surrounded by the jugglers and acrobats, then this is the perfect market for you. People can buy special Christmas presents from blacksmiths, wood carvers, potters and other artisans. 

• When: 16th of November - 22nd of December, Mo-Fr 3pm-10pm, Sa/Su 12pm-10pm
• Where: Revaler Straße 99, 10245 Berlin
• (S/U Warschauer Straße)Cost: Mo-We free, Thu-Su: 2€ (1€ reduced)

7. Lucia Weihnachtsmarkt at Kulturbrauerei (Prenzlauer Berg)

A very much beloved Scandinavian Christmas market in the courtyard of a former brewery. The name Lucia comes from the Latin lux - the light. Saint Lucia, the bringer of light, is celebrated in Sweden every year on 13 December. She walks through the darkness singing - to bring a little light into the darkness of winter and as a symbol of hope. 

• When: 27th of November - 22nd of December, Mo-Fr 3pm-10pm, Sa/Su 1pm-10pm
• Where: Schönhauser Allee 36, 10435 Berlin
• (U2 or M10 Eberswalder Straße)
• Cost: free of charge

Yours,

Jules