Visit Berlin's Christmas Markets

Discover the Enchantment of Berlin’s Famous Holiday Markets

Nov 2, 2008

Christmas markets are a long-held tradition in Germany, and with over 60 markets, Berlin truly becomes a city dedicated to all things of the holiday spirit.

These markets are found everywhere: on main boulevards, small streets and even inside museums. Tourists and Berliners alike stroll through the various markets containing everything from German delicacies, traditional crafts and unique gift ideas. No matter what your ideal holiday includes, Berlin has something for everyone.

Gendarmenmarkt

Surrounded by the glowing Enlightenment-era buildings of Berlin’s Gendarmenmarkt square, this market has become Berlin’s most notable trademark of the holiday season. In addition to all the traditional Christmas treats, such as gingerbread, sausages and mulled wine, the market also serves gourmet food beneath a heated tent. A craftsmanship tent allows visitors to watch woodcarvers, toymakers and other craftsman making their Christmas wares.

Christmas in Berlin Fair

Due to construction work at Schlossplatz, this large fair will take place in front of the Rotes Rathaus, the TV tower and the Marienkirche church. An open-air ice rink and stage will be located in front of the Neptune fountain. The stands selling food, crafts and other merchandise will be modeled on Berlin’s old city, the Nikolai quarter.

Lucia Christmas Market at the Kulturbrauerei

Nov. 24-Dec. 12 Hours: Mon-Fri: 15-10pm; Sat, Sun: 13-10pm; Entry: various depending on program

The courtyards of the Kulturbrauerei provide the perfect setting for an intimate Christmas market that sells local handmade goods. Its location in the trendy district of Prenzlauer Berg brings a more upscale feel to the market, especially noticeable in its food selection. You can expect to find more than just sausages here. Daily visits by Santa and other children’s activities make this a family friendly market.

Market of the Continents: Berlin-Dahlem

Over 40 vendors will be selling handmade crafts from all over the world. Each of the four weekends is dedicated to a different continent: Europe, Africa, Asia and America. European Christmas crafts, Japanese furniture, jewelry from India and toys from Mexico are some of the many treasures to be found. Opening weekend also includes a children’s festival with films, dancing, puppet shows and other activities introducing children to cultures around the world.

Nostalgic Market at the Opernpalais

Nov. 24-Dec. 28 Hours: Mon-Thurs: 12-9:30pm, Fri, Sat: 11-10pm; Sun: 11-9:30pm Entry: Free

Besides its beautiful location between the buildings of Humboldt University and the State Opera, the Opernpalais Christmas market is also centrally located along Berlin’s famous boulevard Unter den Linden. The market is known for its vendors of artists and craftsmen from Saxony and the Czech Republic, who display an overwhelming selection of Christmas goods. Every year the Käthe Wohlfahrt company sells its famous Christmas items here. The market also includes a carousel, Ferris wheel, historic coach rides and a Christmas bakery.

Advents Organic Market of the Grüne Liga Berlin: Kollwitzplatz

This organic market that operates all year long features locally grown food and fair trade products from around the world. During the Christmas season the market’s atmosphere transforms, yet the products - traditional holiday foods, textiles, crafts, toys - continue to abide by international social and ecological standards. The market is a favorite among local families.

Hanukkah Market Jewish Museum

Located in the glass-covered courtyard of the Jewish museum, this market celebrates Hanukkah with vendors from around the world selling Jewish specialties. Puppet-shows, concerts and special tours about Jewish holidays are offered regularly.

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