Over the past years things have been a little different but this year the Christmas markets in Berlin are back and better than ever. Right now, at the end of November most of the Christmas markets are open to receive visitors all the way up to Christmas and some even till New Year’s! Over 60 Christmas markets will take over the city this year to create a magical advent season on squares and streets across the city.

Every district and neighbourhood in Berlin has its own Christmas market and each has its own draw, some are nostalgic others modern, some are indoors others outdoors, some are especially for children others have historical themes. Let’s highlight a few top locations.

Alexanderplatz

This Christmas market has something for everyone as it is a mix between market, fairground and party, as such it is also one of the busiest in Berlin. With carrousels, a Ferris wheel, an ice rink and market stalls selling traditional crafts and Christmas products this market can easily take up your day.

A special feature of the market at Alexanderplatz is the Christmas pyramid, decorated with more than 5000 lights. On the ground floor you can buy snacks and the platform at the top offers a beautiful view. In 2022, the Christmas market on Alexanderplatz is open from 21 November until 26 December, from 10 in the morning to 10 at night, giving you lots of time to explore and enjoy.

Charlottenburg Palace

With the palace itself, parts of the extensive grounds and the market illuminated by lights, this is one of Berlin’s most romantic Christmas markets. Here around 250 vendors sell and display nostalgic Christmas crafts such as nativity figures and tree decorations. The air is filled with the smells of gingerbread, mulled wine and freshly baked bread.

In front of the old orangery, you’ll find special treats on offer for kids as well as historic and nostalgic fairground attractions such as a big wheel, different merry-go-rounds and tiny rollercoasters. Like the Christmas market on Alexanderplatz this market is open from 21 November until 26 December, though there are different opening times. Monday through Thursday the market is open from 2 in the afternoon till 10 at night, while Friday through Sunday you can visit from 12 noon to 10 at night.

International inspiration

The Christmas market may have originated in Germany, but that does not mean other countries can’t bring their own ideas to it. In Berlin there are several Christmas markets which take inspiration from other countries. Though these speciality Christmas markets don’t last as long as their local counterparts they are a unique experience.

For instance, in Kreuzberg’s Finland Center you can visit a Finnish Christmas market on 19 and 20 November, with all kinds of culinary delights: Glöggi, smoked salmon, reindeer sausage and home-baked cookies. A few days later, from 25 till 27 November a Swedish Christmas market arises in the Swedish Victoria Church. Along with Swedish treats you’ll find handmade gifts, Christmas decorations, blankets, books and knitwear here.

Throughout the holiday season, you can also visit a Christmas edition of the Japan Market at the Festsaal in Kreuzberg, a British Christmas market in St. George’s Anglican Church in Westend, and a Norwegian Christmas Bazaar in Kreuzberg.