5 Best Christmas Markets in Berlin, Germany
December has arrived. The trees have shed their leaves, the temperature has dropped, and the decorations have been erected. Germany celebrates Christmas with enthusiasm and passion exhibited through Christmas markets throughout the country. And in Berlin, there's no exception. With a huge variety to choose from, here is your guide to 5 of the best Christmas markets in Berlin:
1. Gendarmenmarkt
The scenic square of Gendarmenmarkt - arguably Berlin's most picturesque - hosts this highly romantic Christmas Market. Flanked by the beautiful twin churches of the famous French and German domes and against the backdrop of the stunning Berlin Konzerthaus, this is the only Christmas market of Berlin with an entrance fee. Though the one-Euro gate donation (after 14:00) is well worth it for the Christmas wonderland you will find within.
The market stalls on display are known for their elegantly crafted, handmade products, while the range of eateries offers some of the healthiest cuisines. The Feuerzangenbowle (warm alcoholic punch) is a German specialty you need to try as you make your way through this fairytale-like setting. Located in the city center, this is a market with a touch of culture.
Address: Leipziger Strasse 65, Mitte
How to get there: Französischesstrasse, Stadtmitte or Hausvogteiplatz U-Bahn stations.
2. Berliner Weihnachtszeit at Alexanderplatz
Source: Flickr - Sergey Galyonkin (CC BY-SA 2.0)Alexanderplatz, the heart of the city, hosts an expansive range of Christmas markets. On either side of the Alexanderplatz station, you will find a hive of festive activity. Particularly in front of the Roten Rathaus (Red Town Hall), the festive energy thrives. The scent of freshly baked gingerbread fills the air, warm glüwein (mulled wine) is in abundance, and the range of food is vast and satisfying.
You can indulge in traditional German specialties like roast bratwurst, flame-grilled steak with grünkohl (spinach), or choose something more exotic from the international cuisine. Ice-skating rink circles around the fountain, which is free to enter provided you leave a small deposit for ice skates. There are also plenty of warm sheltered areas available where you can enjoy hot beverages in a cozy setting. This is one of the easiest markets to find, as it is right next to the giant TV tower.
Address: Karl-Leibknecht Strasse & Spandauer Strasse, Mitte
How to get there: Alexanderplatz U-Bahn or S-Bahn stations
3. Wintertraum Christmas Market
Still within the center of Berlin, is the Wintertraum Christmas Market. Combining Christmas flavor with fairground ambiance, this modern market caters to the younger demographic. With a carnival-like atmosphere, it is definitely one of the brightest and liveliest within the city. Screams of delight fill the air, as thrilling rides including roller coasters, a free-fall jumper and a giant Ferris wheel take patrons to dizzying heights. This market is very popular with teenagers, although there is more than enough entertainment for younger children and parents. For the sweet-tooth, there's a never-ending range of crepes, cookies, and chocolate-coated fruits. For a fun outing, lots of fast food, and super-sweet treats, head to Wintertraum Christmas Market.
Address: Alexanderstraße, Mitte
How to get there: Jannowitzbrucke and Alexanderplatz U-Bahn & S-Bahn stations.
4. Spandau Christmas Market
On the outer rim of Berlin is the Spandau Christmas Market. Located in and around the historic Old Town, this market is rich in character and is a genuine Christmas experience. The market has a medieval-inspired section, which heightens the sense of traditional Christmas festivities as an assortment of meats roast over open flames, and delicious aromas emit out of iron cauldrons.
Lots of free entertainment can be found, with live music featured most nights on the stage in the center of it all. You can enjoy choirs singing carols as well as live bands playing contemporary hits to get you rocking around the Christmas tree! If you wish to explore some outer regions of Berlin and visit the historic town of Spandau, this Christmas Market is a great destination for everyone.
Address: Reformationsplatz, Spandau
How to get there: Altstadt Spandau U-Bahn station, Rathaus Spandau U-Bahn & S-Bahn stations
5.Charlottenburg Palace
With the majestic Charlottenburg Palace as its backdrop, this Christmas Market is possibly the most charming the city has to offer. You can spend hours exploring the grounds, visiting the different wooden huts offering all kinds of Christmas themed knick-knacks, foods, and drinks.
Buy a bag of their famous roasted Maroni's - guaranteed to warm your hands as you nibble on the delicious nuts and make the rounds of this expansive market. The Eierliqueur with cream is a highly recommended dessert beverage (think warm alcoholic eggnog).
The intricately decorated light installation is spectacular and really transforms the palace grounds into a small Christmas village. This market attracts big crowds every night and once you arrive it's hard to leave!
Address: Spandauer Damm 20-24, Charlottenburg
How to get there: Richard-Wagner-Platz U-Bahn station
The Berlin Christmas Markets are open every day of the month - including December 24 & 25 - for some last-minute shopping! Opening hours begin at 13:00 and close around 23:30. Even if you visit just one of the Markets featured on this list, you are guaranteed a taste of German Christmas festivities. Enjoy and Happy Holidays!
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James Kumar
