Berlin Christmas Market Guide: Dates in 2025, Tips & Top Peaks

December has arrived, winter frost has settled over Berlin, the days are growing shorter, and stollen has already appeared on the shelves. Which can only mean one thing: it’s the most wonderful time of the year. The city is beginning to feel truly magical — Christmas markets have opened across Berlin, filling the streets with warm lights and the scent of mulled wine, freshly baked gingerbread, and roasted almonds.

In this guide, you will find everything you need to plan your visit to Berlin’s Christmas markets. From the opening dates and entry fees to practical tips for navigating the stalls, staying warm, and avoiding crowds, to detailed descriptions of the city’s best markets, festive foods, drinks, fun activities, and unique souvenirs.

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Christmas markets in Germany traditionally open in late November and run until the end of December, with a few continuing into early January. However, it is worth noting that not all markets remain open over Christmas or on New Year’s Eve. Many will already have closed by then, so if you are planning a trip during the holidays or for New Year’s celebrations, make sure to check the specific opening dates in advance.

In Berlin, most Christmas markets open in the final week of November, in line with the rest of the country. The earliest market each year is the one at Potsdamer Platz, which opens on 1 November and is also the last to close, on 1 January.

Yes, you can. Most Christmas markets in Germany — including the major ones in Berlin — are free to enter. You can walk freely between the brightly decorated stalls, enjoy the displays and soak up the atmosphere. Be aware, however, that some of the more popular markets may carry out security checks at the entrance. This is a standard measure to ensure safety.

Paid entry is usually found at smaller, more intimate markets with limited space, such as the ones at Domäne Dahlem or Jagdschloss Grünewald, or at some of the most popular central locations, such as the main market at Gendarmenmarkt, where the fee helps manage visitor numbers. In these cases, the small charge is typically used to support the market, maintain security or contribute to charitable causes. Even so, these paid markets are generally well worth the cost. If you prefer not to pay an entry fee, you can choose from the many free markets, which often have larger grounds or attract fewer crowds. Below, I share my favourite markets in Berlin and note the entry fees for each one.

To make your visit to Berlin’s Christmas markets as comfortable and enjoyable as possible, it is worth thinking ahead about a few practical details. It may seem straightforward — you arrive, walk around and enjoy the festive atmosphere — but there are small things that can help you avoid unpleasant surprises and make your evening truly magical. Here are some useful tips to keep in mind:

— Cash. This is Germany, so many stalls may accept cash only (Barzahlung), especially smaller food, souvenir or drink stands. Make sure you have some small notes and coins, as this will make payments easier. Cash machines are usually available at the markets, but queues can be long and withdrawal fees may be high.

— Pfand (deposit). For mulled wine, punch or other drinks served in traditional mugs, you will usually pay a deposit (Pfand) of between €1 and €5. You can return the mug and receive your deposit back, or keep it as a souvenir — many mugs have attractive designs and are nice to collect. It is helpful to remember this so you are not surprised if your drink costs more than the menu price.

— Warm clothing. You will spend most of your time outdoors, so dress warmly and according to the weather. Do not forget a hat, scarf and gloves — even if the day feels mild, the evening can be much colder. If you plan to stay for a long time, consider wearing thermal layers or heated insoles. Outdoor heaters and mulled wine help, but it is always better to be prepared.

— Bring tissues and hand sanitiser. Many food options are meant to be eaten on the go — sausages, potato spirals, gingerbread and so on. In these moments, tissues are essential. A couple of wet wipes or a small bottle of sanitiser can also be useful, especially if you are snacking while moving around and touching surfaces.

— Check toilet access. At many Christmas markets, toilets are free, but some charge a small fee of €0.50–€1. Before you pay, check whether the nearby food stall offers a WC-Chip for free access — this is sometimes included when you buy food or a drink. For example, at the main market at Gendarmenmarkt, this is a common practice.

— Bring your own mulled wine in a flask. Mulled wine at the markets gets more expensive each year, and if you want to save money or enjoy your own recipe, consider bringing a flask with homemade Glühwein. It is convenient and you will know exactly what is in your drink. However, be aware of local rules: some markets do not allow visitors to bring their own drinks, so it is best to check this in advance.

— Carry a small, practical bag or backpack. You may want to buy souvenirs, sweets or other small items, so having a bag is handy. However, it should be small: some popular or enclosed markets do not allow large backpacks or suitcases for security reasons. A light crossbody bag or a compact city backpack is the ideal choice.

— Be prepared for crowds. Popular markets, especially at weekends, attract large numbers of visitors, so do not let this come as a surprise. If you prefer quieter moments, try going early in the evening or on a weekday. If crowds do not bother you, simply be ready to move more slowly and keep an eye on your belongings.

— Plan your route in advance. If you want to visit several markets in one evening, it helps to check their locations beforehand and plan a route. This will save time and energy, especially if they are far apart. You can also join a Christmas market tour, where the guide takes care of the route and logistics. Below, I have selected a few interesting tour options:

Weihnachtszauber at Gendarmenmarkt — one of Berlin’s most iconic Christmas markets. For several years it was temporarily held at Bebelplatz due to renovation works, but in 2025 it has returned to its historic location. For me, this is one of the city’s most important festive markets, set right in the heart of Berlin on one of its most beautiful squares.

If you go up to the viewing platform of the Französischer Dom, you can enjoy a wonderful panoramic view of the market from above.

At this market I usually go for Hungarian Lángos and a blueberry Glühwein, but this year I tried the classic Rahmbrot — it was excellent. All drinks are traditionally served in specially designed mugs, with the design changing every year, and many visitors take them home as souvenirs. There are numerous stalls selling decorations, including the official Käthe Wohlfahrt shop, a well-known brand offering high-quality handcrafted ornaments. For added comfort, the market also features enclosed cafés and heated souvenir huts where visitors can warm up. In the centre of the market there is a stage with performances throughout the day, as well as the statue of Friedrich Schiller.

• Price: Free Mon–Fri 12:00–14:00; €2 otherwise; free for children under 12
• Dates: Nov 24 – Dec 31, 2025
• Opening Hours: Sun–Thu 12:00–22:00, Fri–Sat 12:00–23:00, Christmas Eve 12:00–18:00, New Year’s Eve 12:00–24:00

Berliner Weihnachtszeit am Roten Rathaus — another one of my favourite Christmas markets in Berlin. There is plenty of space, free entry, a circular ice rink, a giant Ferris wheel and even a flying Santa. Three times a day — at 16:30, 18:30 and 20:30 — Santa Claus glides above the market in his sleigh, creating a magical atmosphere for both children and adults. You can also take a photo with him next to the large Christmas tree.

When it comes to food, I especially enjoy the stall that serves mulled wine made with Georgian wine and a Schuss (a small shot of alcohol), poured from a traditional samovar. You can also try a caviar sandwich and solyanka. From German cuisine, make sure to try Handbrot — my latest Christmas market discovery. It is freshly baked yeast bread filled with a hearty mix of cheese, ham and mushrooms, then baked until golden and crisp.

• Price: Entry free; Ice skating €5; Skate rental €3; Penguin & Bear supports €5
• Dates: 24 November – 30 December 2025
• Opening hours: Mon–Fri 12:00–22:00, Sat–Sun 11:00–22:00; closed on Christmas Eve.
• Ice rink sessions: 12:00–13:30 (Sat & Sun 11:15–13:30), 14:00–15:30, 16:00–17:30, 18:00–19:30, 20:00–21:30.

Weihnachtsmarkt at Charlottenburg Palace is considered one of the most romantic Christmas markets in Berlin, as it takes place directly in front of the palace once home to Queen Sophie Charlotte. To me, this market has a similar charm to the Christmas market at Schönbrunn Palace in Vienna — I love when markets are not simply placed in an open square, but blend naturally into the city’s historical landscape.

One of the highlights of the Charlottenburg Palace Christmas market is the programme of live brass performances. Exact dates and times vary each year, so it is best to check the official website or ask for information on-site.

A visit to the market can also be combined with a tour of Charlottenburg Palace and its gardens, or with a special Christmas-themed guided tour inside the palace (approximately €14 plus an entry ticket).

• Price: Free entry
• Dates: Nov 24 – Dec 28, 2025 (closed Dec 24)
• Opening Hours: Mon–Thu 13:00–22:00, Fri–Sun 12:00–22:00 (Dec 25–26 12:00–22:00)

Winterwelt and Christmas Market at Potsdamer Platz offers one major advantage: it is the first Christmas market in Berlin to open each year and the very last to close. It also operates on Christmas Day, though with reduced hours. One of its main attractions is the 12-metre ice slide, which is great fun for both children and adults.

• Price: Free entry
• Dates: Winterwelt Oct 31 – Dec 31, 2025; Christmas Market Nov 24 – Dec 26, 2025
• Opening Hours: Daily 11:00–22:00 (Dec 24 until 16:00)

Historischer Weihnachtsmarkt auf dem RAW-Gelände is one of the most atmospheric places to visit in the run-up to Christmas. I especially love its medieval style: craftsmen in period costumes, wooden carousels, and food that feels like it has been transported from the past. Honestly, it is these unusual markets that tend to stay in your memory the longest.

Where else can you watch a fire show, taste warm honey, and try archery while imagining yourself as a knight? The market’s many bonfires not only provide warmth but also create a cosy, magical atmosphere.

I highly recommend trying the Handbrot and roasted meats — simply delightful! Children will love the wooden rides and the miniature “knight’s castle.” If you are looking for something truly special and different from the traditional Christmas markets, this is the place to visit.

• Price: €3, reduced €1.50; Sat–Sun €4, reduced €2; free Mon
• Dates: Nov 13 – Dec 22, 2025
• Opening Hours: Mon–Thu 15:00–22:00, Fri 15:00–23:00, Sat 12:00–23:00, Sun 12:00–22:00

Adventsmarkt at Domäne Dahlem is the perfect place for anyone who wants to experience the charm of a rural German Christmas. The market takes place in a historic courtyard dating back to 1560. Visitors can explore more than 50 stalls offering handmade crafts and local delicacies such as marzipan, nougat, roasted chestnuts, and cured meats. There is a strong focus on regional organic products and sustainable production.

The eco-market is also worth a visit, and you can even buy a Christmas tree from a certified organic farm. Children can enjoy workshops making candles or decorating Christmas baubles, as well as pony rides. For those who love the countryside, tractor and carriage rides are available, and you can stroll around the picturesque estate to see farm animals.

In the evenings, the market takes on a special festive atmosphere with brass band performances and warming bonfires. Culture enthusiasts can also learn more about local food traditions at the on-site museum.

• Price: €4.50 adults, €2 reduced, kids under 12 free. Museum entry included.
• Dates: All Advent weekends 2025 (Nov 29–30, Dec 6–7, Dec 13–14, Dec 20–21)
• Opening Hours: Sat & Sun 11:00–19:00

Weihnachtsmarkt at Jagdschloss Grunewald is another magical Christmas market, set in the historic castle grounds within the Grunewald forest. Built in 1542, the castle is the oldest surviving in Berlin and provides a cosy setting for a festive market behind its medieval walls.

Visitors can enjoy a variety of traditional treats, including roasted sausages, gingerbread, and roasted nuts. There are workshops for the whole family, and a small stage hosts live music. After dark, costumed night watchmen guide guests back to the bus stop through the forest, adding a truly enchanting atmosphere.

The entrance ticket also includes access to the castle, where you can see works by the famous German artist Hans Holbein the Younger, including pieces from his renowned portrait and religious series, as well as paintings by Lucas Cranach the Elder, one of the leading artists of the Renaissance.

Please leave suitcases, sports bags, and large backpacks at home or in your hotel, as they are not permitted on site. Bag checks are conducted at the entrance.

• Price: €3.50, reduced €2 (includes castle visit), children under 6 free
• Dates: Dec 6–7, 2025
• Opening Hours: 11:00–19:00

Arriving in a new country and not knowing what to try at the local Christmas market can be a little overwhelming — I’ve been there myself! To make it easier, here is a list of foods and drinks that are definitely worth sampling at a German Christmas market. Keep in mind that the menu can vary from market to market.

Drinks:

• Glühwein – the classic mulled wine, available red or white, alcoholic or non-alcoholic. Some stalls even let you buy a bottle to take home.
• Feuerzangenbowle – a dramatic twist on mulled wine where a sugarloaf soaked in rum is set alight above the drink, adding caramelised flavours.
• Glühgin – hot gin infused with spices and warming flavours.
• Jägertee – a festive spiced tea with cinnamon, orange peel and a shot of Jägermeister.
• Eierpunsch – a sweet, warming German drink made with egg liqueur, often lightly spiced.
• Sekt – German sparkling wine, perfect for a toast during the festive season.

Savoury dishes:

• German sausages – usually served in a bun with optional ketchup and mustard, or as a full dish with potatoes and sauerkraut. Popular varieties include Bratwurst, Krakauer, Nürnberger, Frankfurter, and of course the Berlin speciality, Currywurst — a sausage sliced and covered in curry sauce.
• Handbrot – a traditional German pastry made from yeast dough, filled with hearty ingredients such as cheese, mushrooms or sausage, and baked until golden. It is a filling and satisfying snack, perfect for chilly evenings.
• Rahmbrot – a creamy bread speciality topped with a rich, often sour cream-based spread, sometimes accompanied by bacon or onions.
• Pea and lentil soups (Erbsen- und Linsensuppe) – warming, traditional soups that are both hearty and comforting.
• Kartoffelpuffer – crisp potato pancakes, usually served with apple sauce.

Sweet treats:

• Cinnamon buns, strudels, apple and plum pies, and Kaiserschmarrn – traditional baked and pan-fried desserts, often dusted with sugar and perfect with mulled wine.
• Flammkuchen – an Alsatian-style flatbread similar to pizza, topped with cheese and finely chopped sausages or bacon.
• Candied apples (Kandierte Äpfel) – bright, sugar-coated apples on a stick, a classic fairground treat.
• Roasted chestnuts (Gebrannte Maronen) – hot, fragrant chestnuts roasted on an open fire.
• Gingerbread hearts (Lebkuchenherz) – decorated heart-shaped gingerbread biscuits with festive messages.
• Stollen – the famous German Christmas fruit bread filled with dried fruits, nuts and marzipan, dusted with powdered sugar.
• Marzipan – sweet almond paste often shaped into festive figures or small treats.

Berlin’s Christmas markets are full of so many delightful experiences that it often feels like stepping into a real winter fairy tale. Here are a few activities I highly recommend to get into the festive spirit:

— Ice skating. Be sure to rent some skates and enjoy a session on one of the ice rinks, for example at Berliner Weihnachtszeit am Roten Rathaus.

— Ice slide. The Winterwelt at Potsdamer Platz has a 12-metre ice slide, which is fun for both children and adults.

— Curling. For something a little different, try curling! It is especially fun if you are with friends or family. I have wanted to try it for a couple of years myself, but haven’t had the chance yet.

— Boat rides. On the Spree River and nearby canals, festive cruises with mulled wine allow you to enjoy the city’s lights and decorations from the water.

— Christmas market tours. Themed tours give you the opportunity to visit several markets in one trip, learn about their history and special features, and sample the best food, all guided by an expert.

— Christmas concerts. For a musical treat, attend festive concerts at iconic venues such as the Konzerthaus, the Französischer Dom, and the Kaiser Wilhelm Memorial Church. These performances often feature seasonal music and create a magical holiday atmosphere in Berlin.

Here are some ideas for souvenirs to take home from a German Christmas market:

— Designer mugs for mulled wine. Many markets offer unique mugs featuring the market’s logo or design. You can return them for a deposit or keep them as a memorable souvenir.

— Christmas tree decorations. Handcrafted glass baubles, wooden, ceramic or metal figurines make wonderful ornaments or gifts for friends and family. Consider wooden toys such as nutcrackers or music boxes. With so many unique handmade items available, everyone can find something special.

— Scented candles and soaps. Many stalls sell handmade products with natural festive scents like cinnamon, orange, or pine.

— Culinary gifts. Treat yourself or your loved ones to farm cheeses, sausages, honey, marzipan, stollen, gingerbread, or even spices.

— German beverages. You can buy a bottle of mulled wine, homemade liqueur, regional beer, or wine with a festive label.

— Textiles and accessories. Wool scarves, mittens, knitted socks, and even cosy handmade blankets are often available from craft stalls.

— Ceramics. Plates, cups, or decorative figurines are perfect for adding a festive touch to your home. I especially love candle holders and the charming German half-timbered house decorations — one day I might end up buying the entire souvenir stall at a Christmas market!

Berlin’s Christmas markets are truly magical, each one offering its own festive charm, delicious treats, and joyful experiences. I hope this guide helps you discover the best of what the city has to offer during the holiday season. Wrap up warm, sip some mulled wine, and wander through the twinkling lights — perhaps I’ll see you at one of the markets! Don’t forget to explore the rest of my blog for more travel tips, festive guides, and inspiring adventures from Berlin and beyond.