In this article, we will look at the best areas to stay in Berlin for Christmas Markets, how to get to the Christmas Market, and the best hotels in Berlin for all budget travelers.
Berlin is a fantastic destination for Christmas markets, known locally as “Weihnachtsmärkte.” The city comes alive with festive decorations, twinkling lights, and a magical atmosphere during the holiday season.
The Christmas markets typically start in late November and run through December (27 November to 26 December in 2023), with some markets extending into early January.
Some of the best Christmas markets to visit in Berlin are:
- Alexanderplatz Christmas Market
- Gendarmenmarkt Christmas Market
- Potsdamer Platz Christmas Market
- Spandau Christmas Market
- Charlottenburg Palace Christmas Market
When visiting Berlin for Christmas markets, make sure to sample some traditional German treats like Bratwurst (sausages), Lebkuchen (gingerbread cookies), and Stollen (fruitcake), and savor a cup of warm Glühwein to stay cozy while exploring the festive magic of the city.
Berlin can be quite cold in December, so be prepared for chilly weather. Make sure to pack warm clothing, including a good winter coat, gloves, and a hat.
The city has an efficient public transportation system, including buses, trams, and an extensive subway network. Consider getting a Berlin Welcome Card for unlimited travel on public transportation and discounts at various attractions.
There are several great areas to consider staying in during the holiday season to enjoy these festive attractions.
Where to stay in Berlin for Christmas Markets?
The best areas to stay in Berlin for Christmas Markets are Alexanderplatz, Gendarmenmarkt, Charlottenburg, Spandau, Potsdamer Platz, Kurfürstendamm, and Prenzlauer Berg. The markets are spread throughout the city, so you’ll have a great time no matter where you decide to stay.
Additionally, most areas in Berlin are well-connected by the efficient public transportation system, so you can easily reach the Christmas markets even if you don’t stay right next to them.
In general, Alexanderplatz, Gendarmenmarkt, and Potsdamer Platz are popular choices due to their central locations and beautiful markets, but other areas like Charlottenburg, Spandau, Kurfürstendamm, and Prenzlauer Berg can also provide a memorable holiday experience.
It’s a good idea to book your accommodations well in advance, as Berlin is a popular destination during the holiday season, and accommodations can fill up quickly.
Map of the best areas in Berlin for Christmas Markets:
How to get to the Berlin Christmas Market?
Berlin has an extensive public transportation system that includes trams, buses, and the U-Bahn (subway) and S-Bahn (commuter train) networks.
To get to your chosen Christmas market, you can use the following steps:
Visit the BVG Website:
Go to the Berliner Verkehrsbetriebe (BVG) website or use their mobile app to plan your journey. You can enter your current location and your destination (the Christmas market) to get detailed directions and information on ticket options.
Purchase a Ticket:
Depending on how long you’ll be in Berlin and how often you plan to use public transportation, you can buy a single ticket or a daily/weekly pass. Tickets are typically available at ticket machines in U-Bahn and S-Bahn stations.
Navigate:
Follow the directions provided by the BVG website or app. It will tell you which tram, bus, U-Bahn, or S-Bahn lines to take, where to transfer, and how to reach your destination.
Taxi or Ride-Share:
If you prefer a more convenient and direct option, you can also consider taking a taxi or using a ride-sharing service like Uber or Lyft to reach the Christmas market.
Walking or Cycling:
If you’re staying relatively close to the Christmas market and the weather is suitable, you can also walk or cycle to your destination if you have access to a bicycle.
Enjoy the Market:
Once you arrive, take your time to explore the Christmas market, enjoy the festive atmosphere, try some traditional food and drinks, and shop for holiday gifts and decorations.
7 Best areas to stay in Berlin for Christmas Markets:
1. Alexanderplatz
Alexanderplatz is certainly a popular and central location in Berlin, and it does have its own Christmas market. Alexanderplatz Christmas Market is one of the largest in Berlin.
It features an ice rink, a large Christmas tree, and numerous stalls selling crafts, gifts, and food. The highlight is often the gigantic Christmas pyramid.
The iconic Fernsehturm (TV Tower) in Alexanderplatz adds to the charm of the market, creating a picturesque backdrop for your holiday experience.
Stay in Alexanderplatz also offers easy access to the Rotes Rathaus Christmas Market, near Berlin’s Red Town Hall. This market boasts a nostalgic charm with a beautiful ice rink, crafts, and seasonal food offerings. The nearby St. Mary’s Church also hosts a charming Christmas market.
Alexanderplatz’s location also allows you to explore a variety of attractions within walking distance, including the historic Nikolaiviertel, Berlin Cathedral, and Museum Island. These attractions are beautifully illuminated during the holiday season, enhancing the festive ambiance.
Alexanderplatz is a major transportation hub in Berlin, with multiple subway, tram, and bus lines converging here. This makes it easy to explore other Christmas markets and attractions without hassle.
The area around Alexanderplatz offers excellent shopping opportunities. You’ll find department stores like Galeria Kaufhof and numerous boutique shops, making it convenient for Christmas shopping.
Alexanderplatz has numerous hotels, hostels, and vacation rentals, catering to various budgets. This variety of accommodations ensures you can find something suitable for your needs.
Best places to stay in Alexanderplatz for Christmas Markets:
- Luxury ($$$): Radisson Collection Hotel, Berlin
- Mid-range ($$): Lux 11 Berlin-Mitte
- Budget ($): Motel One Berlin-Hackescher Markt
2. Gendarmenmarkt
Gendarmenmarkt is one of the best areas to stay in Berlin for the Christmas market because it is home to the Gendarmenmarkt Christmas Market (WeihnachtsZauber), one of the most popular and picturesque Christmas markets in Berlin.
Gendarmenmarkt is one of Berlin’s most historic squares, known for its stunning architecture and ambiance. It’s home to three impressive buildings: the Konzerthaus (Concert House), the French Cathedral, and the German Cathedral.
The market offers a wide variety of traditional German and international Christmas treats, including bratwurst, roasted chestnuts, gingerbread cookies, mulled wine (Glühwein), and other festive foods.
Gendarmenmarkt Christmas Market features over 150 stalls selling handcrafted goods, unique gifts, and holiday decorations. You can find high-quality products, from handmade ornaments to intricate wooden toys, making it an excellent place for Christmas shopping.
The market often hosts live music performances, including classical concerts, choirs, and other festive entertainment. These cultural events add to the holiday spirit and make it a memorable experience for visitors.
Gendarmenmarkt is centrally located in Berlin, making it convenient for exploring other attractions. You can easily access public transportation to reach different parts of Berlin from here.
Gendarmenmarkt Christmas Market is family-friendly, with activities and rides for children, making it a great option for families traveling with kids.
Best places to stay in Gendarmenmarkt for Christmas Markets:
- Luxury ($$$): Regent Berlin, an IHG Hotel
- Mid-range ($$): Clipper Boardinghouse – Berlin-Gendarmenmarkt
- Budget ($): Motel One Berlin-Spittelmarkt
3. Charlottenburg
Charlottenburg is one of the best places to stay in Berlin for the Christmas market because it hosts the Charlottenburg Palace Christmas Market which has a more traditional and royal feel.
This market is set against the backdrop of the beautiful Charlottenburg Palace, which is illuminated with festive lights and decorations. The palace provides a stunning and historic setting for the market, creating a magical atmosphere that is perfect for the Christmas season.
Charlottenburg Palace (Schloss Charlottenburg) was built in the late 17th century and was the summer residence of Sophie Charlotte, the wife of Frederick I of Prussia. The palace and its gardens are open to the public and offer a glimpse into the royal history of Berlin.
Charlottenburg is home to the Berlin Zoological Garden, Deutsche Oper Berlin (German Opera Berlin) and the Schaubühne am Lehniner Platz, a renowned theater known for its avant-garde productions.
Charlottenburg is well-connected to Charlottenburg S-Bahn station and U-Bahn station, providing convenient transportation options.
While it’s still popular, the Charlottenburg Palace Christmas Market is generally less crowded than some of the larger Christmas markets in the city center, such as the one at Alexanderplatz. This can make for a more relaxed and enjoyable experience.
Best places to stay in Berlin in Charlottenburg for Christmas Markets:
- Luxury ($$$): Schlosspark Hotel
- Mid-range ($$): Wilmina Hotel
- Budget ($): Goodman’s Living
4. Spandau
Spandau is one of Berlin’s oldest districts, and it has a charming, historic atmosphere that adds to the festive ambiance of the Christmas market. The market is located in the Old Town (Altstadt), surrounded by centuries-old buildings and a medieval citadel.
The Christmas market in Spandau is one of the city’s oldest and most traditional markets. It dates back to the 16th century and has a long history of celebrating the holiday season. This long-standing tradition makes it a unique and authentic place to experience Christmas in Berlin.
Spandau’s Christmas market often features an ice skating rink, making it an ideal destination for families and those looking for some winter sports fun.
Spandau is well-connected to S-Bahn and U-Bahn lines. This makes it convenient for visitors to explore other parts of the city while staying in Spandau.
While some of Berlin’s more central Christmas markets, like the one at Alexanderplatz or Gendarmenmarkt, can get quite crowded, Spandau’s market tends to be less crowded. This can provide a more relaxed and enjoyable experience, especially if you prefer a quieter setting.
Best places to stay in Berlin in Spandau for Christmas Markets:
- Mid-range ($$): Hotel Benn
- Mid-range ($$): Hotel Lindenufer
- Budget ($): Brauhaus in Spandau
5. Potsdamer Platz
Potsdamer Platz is a popular area to stay in Berlin during the Christmas season. It is located in the heart of Berlin, making it a central location for exploring the city’s various Christmas markets including the one at Alexanderplatz and the Winter World at Potsdamer Platz itself.
The Winter World (Winterwelt) at Potsdamer Platz is one of Berlin’s most popular Christmas attractions. It features an ice rink, a toboggan run, and numerous food and drink stalls, creating a festive atmosphere that’s perfect for families and couples alike.
Potsdamer Platz is home to several large shopping malls, such as the Mall of Berlin and Arkaden, where you can shop for Christmas gifts and souvenirs. These malls often have their own holiday decorations and events during the Christmas season.
Potsdamer Platz is well-connected to buses, trams, and S-Bahn and U-Bahn lines. This makes it easy to access other parts of Berlin to explore additional Christmas markets or attractions.
Potsdamer Platz boasts a variety of hotels and accommodations to suit different budgets. Staying in this area ensures you have convenient access to the festivities and can easily return to your lodgings after a day of holiday fun.
Potsdamer Platz is also home to the Berlin Philharmonic and the Musical Theater, where you can enjoy Christmas-themed performances and concerts.
Best places to stay in Potsdamer Platz for Christmas Markets:
- Luxury ($$$): The Ritz-Carlton, Berlin
- Mid-range ($$): Scandic Berlin Potsdamer Platz
- Budget ($): Motel One Berlin-Potsdamer Platz
6. Kurfürstendamm
Kurfürstendamm, often referred to simply as Ku’damm, is one of the popular areas to stay in Berlin for Christmas markets. It is located in the Charlottenburg-Wilmersdorf district of Berlin, which is relatively central, making it a great base for exploring other parts of the city.
Kaiser Wilhelm Memorial Church Christmas Market is situated against the backdrop of the famous Gedächtniskirche on Kurfürstendamm, which was relatively demolished during World War II. It has a poignant yet festive ambiance with various stalls, food, and entertainment.
Kurfürstendamm is famous for its shopping opportunities, with numerous boutiques, department stores, and designer shops lining the street. If you’re interested in shopping, this area has plenty to offer.
Best places to stay in Berlin in Kurfürstendamm for Christmas Markets:
- Luxury ($$$): Hotel Palace Berlin
- Mid-range ($$): 25hours Hotel Bikini Berlin
- Budget ($): Motel One Berlin-Upper West
7. Prenzlauer Berg
Unlike some of the more touristy areas in Berlin, Prenzlauer Berg offers a more local and authentic experience. You’ll find smaller, lesser-known Christmas markets where you can interact with Berliners and immerse yourself in the city’s culture.
Prenzlauer Berg itself hosts some unique Christmas markets, such as the Lucia Christmas Market at Kulturbrauerei, which focuses on Scandinavian traditions, or the Kollwitzplatz Christmas Market, known for its artisanal crafts and gourmet food stalls.
You can find Nordic crafts, enjoy Swedish food, and immerse yourself in a cozy and festive atmosphere.
Prenzlauer Berg is well-connected to various parts of Berlin, including the city center, which makes it easy to access popular markets like Alexanderplatz, Gendarmenmarkt, or the Berliner Weihnachtszeit market at Red Town Hall.
Best places to stay in Berlin in Prenzlauer Berg for Christmas Markets:
- Budget ($): Apartments City Room Berlin
- Budget ($): Pension Freiraum Guesthouse Berlin
- Budget ($): Old Town Hostel
See more:
- Where to Stay in Berlin First Time
- Best Luxury to Budget Hotel in Berlin for Couples, Families, Backpackers
- How Many Days In Berlin Is Enough?
In conclusion, Alexanderplatz, Gendarmenmarkt, Charlottenburg, Spandau, Potsdamer Platz, Kurfürstendamm, and Prenzlauer Berg are the best places to stay in Berlin for Christmas Markets. These areas offers easy access to major Christmas Markets of Berlin both on foot and by public transportation,