The Best Christmas Markets In Berlin In 2024 + Honest Reviews

Planning to visit Berlin this holiday season? Here you can find the best Christmas markets in Berlin in 2024, including my honest reviews.

Berlin is always a popular travel destination, but many tourists want to experience this vibrant city during the magical winter months. The first question that always comes to mind before visiting during this time is: “What are the best Christmas Markets in Berlin?”. If you have been wondering that as well, then don’t worry, I have got you covered! I have spent the past two Christmas seasons in Berlin and have found the best places to soak in the best holiday magic. 

While visiting Christmas Markets is one of the best parts of traveling in December, I will be the first to admit that once you have seen one or two – you have seen them all. Each year, there are over 80 Christmas Markets in Berlin! (yes you read that right). While I love visiting a variety of markets, I will not visit more than a handful and assume that most travelers won’t either. Therefore, I created a list below of my top five favorite Christmas Markets in Berlin. They are ordered in terms of ranking, and I have also included an honest review of each spot. This way, you can choose which markets to spend your time on and which you may want to skip. 

In addition to Berlin’s best Christmas Markets, I will also create a small food and beverage guide as well as some other winter activities you must check out while visiting Berlin. 

FAQs about Christmas Markets in Berlin

What’s the best Christmas Market in Berlin?

There are several amazing Christmas Markets in Berlin. Since there are 80 markets held annually, picking just one favorite is going to be tough. My personal favorites are Charlottenburg Schloss, Gendarmenmarkt, Berliner Weihnachtszeit, Kaiser Wilhelm Memorial Church, and Potsdam. I will dive into each of these below and give you an honest review of each one!

Is Berlin good for Christmas Markets?

Yes, Berlin is a great travel destination if you are looking to experience Christmas Markets! There are a variety of choices, from very traditional markets to more modernized ones, with a Ferris wheel and ice rink. The Germans take their Christmas Markets very seriously, and you will be spoilt for options if you come to Berlin in the winter. 

How expensive are Berlin Christmas Markets?

Most Christmas Markets in Berlin are free to enter. While some may require a small payment, it will always be around 1-2 euros, which I think is a fair price considering the amount of effort it takes to set these markets up. Inside the market, all souvenirs will of course be more expensive than in any other tourist shop, but that is nothing new 😅. The food and drinks are fairly priced with Glühwein costing around 5 euros, and a Bratwust is usually around 8 euros. 

This post is all about the best Christmas Markets in Berlin in 2024 + honest reviews

Where to stay in Berlin

Berlin is a huge city, so choosing where to stay can often be overwhelming, especially since each district is quite unique. Below you can find a quick overview of each neighborhood in Berlin, to figure out which area you should base yourself for the week. 

 

Mitte

• Vibe: Central, Historic, Trendy
• Best for: First-time visitors, culture enthusiasts, luxury travelers
• Description: As the historical and geographical heart of Berlin, Mitte is home to major landmarks like the Brandenburg Gate, Museum Island, and Alexanderplatz. It’s perfect for those wanting to be in the thick of the action, with easy access to museums, upscale shopping, and fine dining.

Prenzlauer Berg

• • Vibe: Bohemian, Family-Friendly, Stylish

• • Best for: Families, couples, and those who enjoy cafes, parks, and boutiques

• • Description: Known for its picturesque streets lined with restored historic buildings, Prenzlauer Berg offers a laid-back vibe with plenty of cafes, independent shops, and parks. It’s a great area for those who prefer a more relaxed atmosphere with a touch of trendy culture.

Kreuzberg

• • Vibe: Alternative, Multicultural, Lively

• • Best for: Young travelers, nightlife enthusiasts, artists

• • Description: Kreuzberg is famous for its vibrant nightlife, street art, and diverse food scene. It’s a melting pot of cultures with a strong alternative spirit, ideal for those looking to experience Berlin’s edgier side.

Friedrichshain

• • Vibe: Hip, Youthful, Dynamic

• • Best for: Budget travelers, party-goers, students

• • Description: A hub for nightlife and creative energy, Friedrichshain is known for the East Side Gallery, clubs, and hip bars. It’s a great spot for those looking for an energetic atmosphere with plenty of budget-friendly options.

Charlottenburg

• • Vibe: Elegant, Upscale, Historic

• • Best for: Luxury travelers, history buffs, shoppers

• • Description: Charlottenburg offers a more traditional and refined experience with landmarks like Charlottenburg Palace and high-end shopping on Kurfürstendamm (Ku’damm). It’s ideal for those seeking a quieter, more sophisticated stay.

Neukölln

• • Vibe: Up-and-coming, Diverse, Artsy

• • Best for: Artists, hipsters, budget-conscious travelers

• • Description: Neukölln is an increasingly popular neighborhood with a growing arts scene, multicultural eateries, and a youthful vibe. It’s perfect for those who enjoy discovering hidden gems in a less touristy, yet dynamic area.

Christmas Markets Opening Dates + Times

The opening times of the Christmas Markets in Berlin vary considerably throughout the holiday season. However, below are some of the general guidelines around the opening hours and dates. I will add the exact dates and opening hours for each of the Christmas Markets that I will be talking about under their respective categories for your ease. 

General Guidelines (may change)

Most markets are open from the 25 of November until the 30 of December  Typical operating times on Mondays – Fridays are 12:00 until 22:00 On Saturdays and Sundays, most markets will operate on one of the following schedules:

• 11:00 until 22:00
• 12:00 until 23:00

On Christmas Eve (December 24), many markets are closed, however, there are a handful that will be open for part of the day. You can still enjoy the Gendarmenmarkt Market on Christmas Eve (from 12:00 to 18:00) and at the Kaiser Wilhelm Memorial Church Market (from 11:00 until 14:00).  There are a handful of markets that are also open after Christmas and will operate until December 31st. These include Gendarmenmarkt, Charlottenburg Palace, and Kaiser Wilhelm Memorial Church.   The Christmas Market at Kaiser Wilhelm Memorial Church will operate until January 5, 2025. 

The 5 Best Christmas Markets in Berlin 

1. Charlottenburg Schloss Christmas Market

General information about visiting

Address: Spandauer Damm 20, 14059 Berlin Operating Dates: November 27 – December 31, 2024.

• Closed on December 24. 

Opening Times: All days of the week 12:00 until 22:00 Admission: Free This has to be my all-time favorite Christmas Market in Berlin! There is something so magical about the setting of the market at the entrance to the beautiful Charlottenburg Schloss. This palace is absolutely stunning and always worth a visit on its own. However, it becomes that bit more magical when the Christmas festivities start. 

You can find a variety of stalls here, with a great ratio of food to souvenirs. I found this particular market to be the most diverse in terms of food stalls. While it will serve a lot of the typical German foods such as Bratwurst, you can also find a pasta stall, Nordic smoked salmon, and various other international traditional cuisines. If you are looking for a market where you can eat loads of dishes, then this is the one for you! They of course also have a lot of drink stalls, and you may even be able to experience live Christmas caroling. 

My rating: 10/10

2. Berliner Weihnachtszeit (Rotes Rathaus)

General information about visiting

Address: Spandauer Straße,10178 Berlin Operating Dates: November 25 – December 30, 2024.

• Closed on December 24 and December 31. 

Opening Times: Monday to Friday – 12:00 until 22:00, on Saturday and Sunday – 11:00 to 22:00.

• December 25 & 26,  open from 12:00 – 22:00. 

Admission: Free This is another one of Berlin’s best Christmas Markets. Located in the city center close to Alexander Platz, the Rotes Rathaus (City Hall) Christmas Market is a must-visit if you happen to be in Berlin. It is one of the larger markets, which also offers a variety of stalls. This one has a slightly bigger emphasis on Christmas souvenirs. You can find many stalls here selling different kinds of lamps and candles all centered around the holiday season. 

My favorite thing about this market is how many activities you can find here. In addition to the general stalls, there is also an ice rink here open for visitors. You can rent skates at the Rotes Rathaus market for 4 euros, making this an affordable and fun family activity. The rink is a loop created around a large fountain in the middle of the marketplace, which also makes this the center of all the festivities. Furthermore, you can find a 50-meter panoramic Ferris wheel here, as well as a carousel with a view of the famous Berlin TV Tower. Needless to say, if you are looking for adventure, then this is the market for you!

My rating: 10/10

3. WeihnachtsZauber at Gendarmenmarkt

General information about visiting

Address: Gendarmenmarkt, 210117 Berlin Operating Dates: November 25 – December 31, 2024.  Opening Times: Sunday to Thursday – 12:00 until 22:00, on Friday and Saturday – 12:00 to 23:00.

• December 24 open from 12:00 to 18:00

Admission: It costs 2 euros to enter although children under 12 can enter for free. On Monday to Friday between 12:00 and 14:00 admission is also free.  This is the perfect example of a classic and beautiful Christmas Market. The Gendarmenmarkt Christmas Market is typically set in the beautiful square surrounded by the Deutscher Dom, Konzerthaus Berlin, and Französischer Dom. These beautiful old buildings give the market a charming atmosphere and therefore this is one of the most popular Christmas Markets in Berlin. In addition, all stalls here are white tents with gold stars at the top, giving the market a classy and cohesive look. There is a large stage here and you can typically catch a concert or show going on. 

Important Note: Due to construction, this Christmas Market has relocated to Bebelplatz until 2024. Bebelplatz is the large square located right in front of Humbolt University, off the historic Unter den Linden Boulevard. This means that the market is still surrounded by impressive and historic buildings. However, I will be the first to admit that it is not nearly as spectacular as when it was at Gendarmenmarkt. 

My rating (location Gendarmenmarkt): 8.5/10 My rating (location Bebelplatz): 6/10

4. Kaiser Wilhelm Memorial Church

General information about visiting

Address: Breitscheidplatz, 110789 Berlin Operating Dates: November 25 – January 5, 2024-2025.   Opening Times: Sunday to Thursday – 11:00 until 21:00, on Friday and Saturday – 11:00 to 22:00.

• December 24 open from 11:00 to 14:00
• December 25 open from 13:00 to 21:00
• December 31 open from 11:00 to 20:00 
• January 1 open from 13:00 to 21:00

Admission: Free The Kaiser Wilhelm Memorial Church Christmas Market is one of Berlin’s Best Christmas Markets. Located at the historic ruins of the Kaiser Wilhelm Church, this spot should definitely be on your list of must-visit markets in Berlin. The best thing about this market has to be the location. It is located at the end of the famous shopping street in Berlin called Kurfürstendamm. You can pair a visit here with all of the other shopping options the stores have to offer. In addition, the street is typically lit up completely with lights during the holiday season, and you can find random light statues such as a snowman. 

The market itself is quite standard but offers a little bit of everything. The stalls at the beginning offer more souvenir options, whereas you can find lots of food and drink stalls on the other side of the church. However, one activity here is a must. Near the entrance, you will find a large hut completely decked out in Christmas decorations. Get some festive drinks and enjoy the atmosphere with live music! There are even a few swings here which is my preferred seat choice when I come. 

My rating 8/10

5. Potsdam Blauer Lichterglanz

Address: Brandenburger Straße, 14471 Potsdam Operating Dates: November 25 – December 29, 2024.  

• Closed on December 24

Opening Times: Sunday to Thursday – 11:00 PM until 20:00, on Friday and Saturday – 11:00 to 21:00.

Admission: Free While the Bluer Lichterglanz Christmas Market is technically not located in Berlin, it lies less than an hour away from the city, in one of the most charming cities in the Brandenburg Region. Potsdam is a beautiful city that is a must-visit on any trip to Berlin.

To get to Potsdam take the RE1 train from any large train station in Berlin and get off at the station called “Potsdam”. The train ride will last around 25 minutes. Then, take tram number 91 into the city center, this will take less than 10 minutes. You can also walk if you prefer. 

There are lots of things to do in Potsdam. There are stunning parks that are also worth a stroll in the wintertime. The two best parks to visit are Park Sanssouci and Babelsberg. Both have lots of castles and beautiful buildings to admire, however, if you only have time for one, make sure it’s Park Sanssouci.

Afterwards, head into the city center where you will find a 1-kilometer-long Christmas Market lining Brandenburger Straße.  At Luisenplatz you will find lots of arcade games and small rides for kids to enjoy. Then, once you cross the Brandenburg Gate you will enter a traditional Christmas Market selling a wide variety of foods, drinks, and souvenirs. 

My Rating: 8/10

Bonus Christmas Markets in Berlin

Berlin is famous for its alternative side, therefore, it wouldn’t be right not to mention some of the more alternative Christmas Markets in Berlin.  Holzmarkt 25 is known to be a village for creatives located near the East Side Gallery. This area makes for an interesting visit any time of year as it is filled with murals and sculptures made of recycled products. In the holiday season, the open area is transformed into a more “down-to-earth” Christmas Market. For more information about the Holzmarkt Christmas Market click here.

• Address: Holzmarktstraße 25, 10243 Berlin
• Operating Dates: November 23 until December 23 on the weekends.
• Opening Hours: On Fridays, it opens at 16:00 while on Saturdays and Sundays, it opens at 14:00.
• Admission: Free 

On the other side of the East Side Gallery, you can find the R.A.W. Gëlande cultural complex which is typically home to some of the most popular nightclubs and art installations in the city. During the holidays, the complex is transformed into a medieval center. You can find various entertainment here such as jugglers and acrobats, and all rides are made out of wood. For more information about the Medieval Market at R.A.W Gëlande click here. 

• Address: Revaler Straße 99, 10245 Berlin
• Operating Dates: 16 November until 22 December. it is closed on November 26.
• Opening Hours: Monday to Friday 15:00 – 22:00, Saturdays and Sundays 12:00 – 22:00. 
• Admission: Monday – Wednesday Free, Thursday – Sunday 2 euros.

Quick Guide to Berlin Christmas Market Food

You can find a variety of foods and drinks at the Christmas Markets in Berlin. However, there are a few staple items you should familiarize yourself with. 

Important note: you will typically get real mugs for the drinks which you will have to give a deposit for (usually up to 5 euros). When you are done drinking, simply return the mug and you will get the money back. Alternatively, you can also keep the mug in exchange for the money you gave as a deposit. 

Glühwein:

This is the German version of mulled wine which is also often called Glögg. Glühwein is an alcoholic drink that is usually made with red wine, spices, and raisins. In most market stalls you can find this in both a red and white wine version, as well as non-alcoholic versions. 

Eierpunsch:

This is simply the German version of an egg nog drink and you will find this at most stalls. 

Bratwurst:

No surprise here, bratwurst is the most popular food at German Christmas Markets. They are served fresh and you can usually choose between a different variety of sausages.  

Smoked Salmon:

While this is a traditional Nordic food, you can find fresh salmon roasting on a fire in many of the Christmas Markets in Berlin. 

Pro Tip: If you are vegan like me, don’t expect a large variety of vegan options at the Christmas Markets in Berlin. While Berlin may be known for their wide selection of vegan food, their Christmas Markets are sadly not. 

 

Extra Winter Activities in Berlin

While going to Christmas Markets is a must when visiting Berlin during the holiday season, below are some other activities to consider during your stay!

Ice Skating:

You can find an ice rink at the Rotes Rathaus Christmas Market. Another option is visiting the Winter World at Potsdamer Platz. Here you can find yet another Christmas Market (are we surprised?). The main attraction here is by far the ice rink and a 12-meter high toboggan run. Read more about it here. 

Botanical Garden Light Show:

Each year the botanical garden in Berlin is tranformed into a Christmas Garden. If you love light installations then this activity is for you! The garden is open from November 20, 2024, until January 12, 2025. Opening hours vary slightly depending on the day of the week but typically the garden opens at 16:30, and the last admission is at 19:30 since they close at 21:00. Admission fees are 16.5 euros per person, although they do offer discounts for children, and family tickets. Click here for more information regarding opening times, prices, and location. 

Café Am Neuen See:

Café Am Neuen See is famous for its lovely beer garden by the lake located in the heart of Tiergarten. But each winter, the outdoor area is tranformed into a cozy curling hall. If you are looking for a fun outdoor activity with your friends and family then you should consider coming here. If you are not a curling fan, then you can also enjoy a delicious warm drink around a fireplace to feel the winter coziness. Read more about your options here. 

Berliner Philharmoniker:

If you are looking to do something a little more special during your visit, then consider going to a concert at the Philharmonic Concert Hall in Berlin. Last year I attended their Christmas Show and it was spectacular. You can check out their upcoming shows here. 

That concludes my guide on the best Christmas Markets in Berlin. While Berlin is often overlooked as a Christmas destination, it’s honestly one of my favorite places this time of year. With 80 different Christmas markets in Berlin, you cannot miss the magical atmosphere this time of year brings. I hope you decide to visit Berlin this holiday season and enjoy the Christmas Markets mentioned above!

This post was all about the best Christmas Markets in Berlin in 2024 + Honest Reviews.