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Berlin Christmas Markets: The Ultimate Guide [Updated 2022]
Berlin’s Christmas markets are a beloved holiday tradition, drawing visitors from all over the world to experience the festive atmosphere, delicious food, and unique gifts. In this guide, we will provide everything you need to know to make the most of your visit to Berlin’s Christmas markets, including the history, top markets to visit, and tips for enjoying the festivities.
History of Berlin Christmas Markets
Christmas markets have a long history in Berlin, dating back to the 14th century. Originally, these markets were held to celebrate St. Nicholas Day on December 6th, and were primarily religious in nature. Over time, the markets evolved to become a more secular celebration of the holiday season, and today they are an important part of the city’s cultural identity.
Top Christmas Markets to Visit in Berlin
There are numerous Christmas markets to visit in Berlin, each with its own unique atmosphere and offerings. Here are some of the top markets to check out:
- Gendarmenmarkt: Located in the heart of Berlin, the Gendarmenmarkt Christmas market is one of the city’s most popular and features over 150 stalls selling a variety of gifts, food, and drinks.
- Spandauer Weihnachtsmarkt: Located in the charming Spandau Old Town, this market is known for its festive atmosphere and traditional German Christmas decorations.
- WeihnachtsZauber Gendarmenmarkt: This market, located near the famous Brandenburg Gate, is known for its beautiful setting and high-quality crafts and gifts.
- Charlottenburg Palace Christmas Market: This market, located in the beautiful gardens of Charlottenburg Palace, is a must-visit for those interested in traditional German Christmas traditions.
Tips for Enjoying Berlin Christmas Markets
Here are some tips to help you make the most of your visit to Berlin’s Christmas markets:
- Dress warmly: Berlin can get quite cold during the winter, so be sure to dress warmly and wear layers.
- Try traditional German food and drinks: Christmas markets are a great opportunity to sample traditional German food and drinks, such as bratwurst, glühwein, and lebkuchen.
- Shop early: Christmas markets can get quite crowded, so if you want to avoid the crowds and have more time to browse, try to visit early in the day.
- Take a break: With so much to see and do, it’s easy to get caught up in the excitement of the Christmas markets. Remember to take breaks and sit down to enjoy the festive atmosphere and warm up with a cup of glühwein.
Additional Berlin Christmas Markets to Explore
While the Gendarmenmarkt, Spandauer Weihnachtsmarkt, WeihnachtsZauber Gendarmenmarkt, and Charlottenburg Palace Christmas Market are some of the most popular and well-known markets in Berlin, there are many more worth exploring. Here are a few additional markets to consider visiting:
- Alexanderplatz Christmas Market: Located in the heart of Berlin’s city center, this market is known for its wide variety of gifts and food.
- Winter World at Potsdamer Platz: This market, located in the heart of Berlin’s shopping district, features over 200 stalls and a large ice rink.
- Kulturbrauerei Christmas Market: Located in a former brewery in the trendy neighborhood of Prenzlauer Berg, this market is known for its unique gifts and live music.
- Neukölln Christmas Market: Located in the diverse and creative neighborhood of Neukölln, this market is known for its independent artists and local food and drink offerings.
- Mitte Christmas Market: Located in the central Mitte neighborhood, this market is known for its cozy atmosphere and traditional German Christmas decorations.
Exploring Berlin’s Christmas Markets with Children
Berlin’s Christmas markets are a great destination for families with children. In addition to the festive atmosphere and delicious food and drink, many markets offer activities and attractions specifically for kids. Here are a few ideas for enjoying the markets with children:
- Take a ride on the Ferris wheel: Many markets, such as the Gendarmenmarkt and Alexanderplatz Christmas Market, offer a Ferris wheel or other carnival rides. These can be a fun and festive activity for kids of all ages.
- Visit the children’s area: Many markets, such as the Winter World at Potsdamer Platz and Kulturbrauerei Christmas Market, have a dedicated children’s area with activities and crafts.
- Go ice skating: Many markets, such as the Winter World at Potsdamer Platz and WeihnachtsZauber Gendarmenmarkt, offer ice skating rinks. This can be a fun and active activity for kids during a visit to the market.
- Sample the treats: Kids will love trying the delicious treats and sweets available at the markets, such as gingerbread cookies and hot chocolate.
- Take a break: With so much to see and do, it’s easy to get caught up in the excitement of the Christmas markets. Remember to take breaks and sit down to rest and enjoy the festive atmosphere.
Berlin’s Christmas markets are a great destination for families with children, offering a festive atmosphere, delicious food and drink, and activities and attractions specifically for kids. Whether you’re looking to ride the Ferris wheel, go ice skating, or simply sample the treats and soak up the festive atmosphere, Berlin’s Christmas markets have something for everyone.
