Berlin – city of unlimited possibilities. If you love this capital city in summer, you definitely won’t be disappointed in the winter. When it comes to Christmas markets, Berlin shows itself at its most versatile and lively. There are almost 100 Christmas markets in the city: here we introduce you to 7 of the best.
The namesake of this Christmas market, „Lucia“, comes from Scandinavia and means „bringer of light“. Not only does she bring light to this corner of Berlin, but also warmth and cosiness in the courtyards of Berlin’s historic Kulturbrauerei in the district of Prenzlauer Berg. Based on Scandinavian traditions, here you can find all kinds of delicacies and handicrafts. We particularly recommend the famous Glögg, a Scandinavian mulled wine made of red wine and grain or vodka and spices such as cinnamon, cardamom or ginger, served with raisins and peeled almonds. And don’t miss the chance to try out the bizarre jacket heater or the sauna oven! Of course, there’s also plenty for kids to enjoy with a knight’s castle and Scandinavian music. The market is open from the end of November through to just before Christmas.
Once again this year, Charlottenburg Palace forms a beautiful backdrop to what is probably the most majestic Christmas market in Berlin. Impressive illuminations of the palace buildings are a visual treat for young and old. For kids, there’s an area with nostalgic fairground rides, just perfect for keeping the little ones happy! And for the foodies among you there’s a winter open-air restaurant. This magical market is open from the end of November until Christmas.
Just a hop, skip and jump from our Scandic hotel on Potsdamer Platz, this Winter World along Alten Potsdamer Straße is once again opening its doors this year. The sportiest of all Christmas markets has a special appeal for families and young people with its legendary toboggan run and ice rink complete with curling. Of course, alongside the sporting attractions it also has a great many stands selling traditional snacks and souvenirs. It’s always well worth calling in to take a look! This market is also open from the end of November through to Christmas.
Neukölln – the Christmas market on Richardplatz square creates a very special Christmas mood thanks to its kerosene lamps and brilliantly decorated trees. Here on the second weekend of Advent a colourful mixture of lovingly created handicrafts and homemade delicacies is presented to the public. Other interesting features include the carriage exhibition and the old village smithy, where the blacksmiths display their skills.
The indoor Christmas Rodeo is a Christmas market with a difference. On the first 3 weekends of Advent, Berlin’s former first ice factory, the Kühlhaus Berlin, opens its doors for the designer Christmas Rodeo. Over 5 floors, a sophisticated range of art, fashion, jewellery and street food is presented by artists and creative talents. This unique alternative to the classic Christmas market is the perfect place to search for original gift ideas, as there are all kinds of unusual one-off items on sale. The musical soundtrack here is also quite different and features various Berlin DJs with their electronic sounds.
At Christmas, one of Berlin’s most beautiful squares is transformed into a small tented city of light. At Gendarmenmarkt square you can find a mixture of unusual culinary treats along with art and culture, all accompanied by an extensive stage programme featuring dance acrobats, choirs and clowns. Social responsibility is also demonstrated here, as part of the entrance fee (EUR 1.00) goes towards supporting social and cultural causes. The Gendarmen Christmas market is open from the end of November until the new year.
Little Japan in Berlin. On the second weekend in Advent, the arena in Berlin-Treptow invites visitors to the Japanese Christmas market. Here they find a varied programme of traditional Japanese foods, contemporary arts and crafts, ceramics and fashion. Dance and wrestling performances and Japanese DJs provide exceptional entertainment.
Winter can sometimes sap your energy, especially when you have been walking round Berlin’s many wonderful Christmas markets. Our 2 hotels in Berlin, Scandic Berlin Kurfürstendamm and Scandic Berlin Potsdamer Platz, offer the perfect place to relax after a strenuous day out. Recharge your batteries and snuggle up in one of our comfortable box spring beds or warm yourself up with a hot drink at our bar. If you really like to build up a sweat, pay a visit to the hotel’s sauna.
Located in Berlin’s western city centre. Within walking distance of Kurfürstendamm and the Zoological Garden. Exclusive conference floor. Outstanding connection to the trade fair.
Right on Potsdamer Platz. Walking distance from the Brandenburger Tor and well connected to tourist attractions and the exhibition and convention centre. Excellent choice for conferences.