Hi guys, on my website, I already wrote articles about the safest areas in Berlin for first-timers (I will put the links to them at the end of this article). In today’s article, I will help you to find the best places to stay in Berlin for Christmas Markets.
I will provide you with a list of what I believe are the best areas to stay in Berlin for Christmas Markets, along with a helpful map. I’ll also share where I stayed in Berlin and recommend some of the best hotels in Berlin for Christmas Markets for all budgets.
There are many Christmas Markets in Berlin, each district even has their own Christmas Markets. But the most popular and best Christmas Markets in Berlin in 2023/ 2024 (include date and location) are:
- Christmas Market on Gendarmenmarkt (27 Nov to 31st Dec move to Bebelplatz)
- Christmas Market at Berlin City Hall (27th Nov to 30th Dec at Rotes Rathaus)
- Christmas Market on Alexanderplatz (27th Nov to 26th Dec)
- Christmas Market on Potsdamer Platz (28/Oct to 02/Jan)
- Advent Eco Market in Prenzlauer Berg (Sundays, 26th Nov to 17th Dec at Kollwitzplatz)
- Christmas Market at Charlottenburg Palace (27th Nov to 31st Dec at Spandauer Damm 20)
- Kaiser Wilhelm Memorial Church Christmas Market (27th Nov to 31st Dec at Breitscheidplatz)
- Christmas Market in Spandau (27 Nov to 23 Dec in Old Town)
Christmas markets in Berlin typically open in the late afternoon and stay open until the evening. Plan to arrive in the early evening to experience the markets when they are at their most festive.
Don’t miss the opportunity to taste traditional German holiday treats. Try bratwurst, roasted chestnuts, potato pancakes, and, of course, the famous Glühwein (mulled wine). Many markets also offer non-alcoholic alternatives.
Christmas markets are a great place to shop for unique gifts and handmade crafts. You’ll find a variety of ornaments, toys, and other festive items for sale.
While many places in Berlin accept cards, it’s a good idea to have some cash on hand for the markets, especially for small vendors and food stalls.
Most markets offer entertainment in the form of live music, performances, and carol singing. If you’re traveling with children, consider visiting markets with kid-friendly attractions like carousels and other fun activities.
Berlin in December can be quite cold, so make sure to dress warmly. Layered clothing, a good coat, gloves, and a hat are essential.
Be prepared for crowds, especially on weekends and closer to Christmas. If you prefer a more relaxed experience, consider visiting during the week or earlier in the evening.
I recommend keeping an eye on your belongings, as crowded places are more susceptible to pickpocketing. Stay vigilant and use a crossbody bag or money belt to secure your valuables.
Berlin has an efficient public transportation system, including trams, buses, and the U-Bahn and S-Bahn trains. You can use the Berlin Welcome Card or Berlin CityTourCard for unlimited travel on public transportation within the city.
You can also download local transportation apps like BVG FahrInfo Plus to help you plan your route to the specific Christmas market you want to visit. Booking your accommodation close to public transportation also helps you easily navigate around the city and markets.
Where to stay in Berlin for Christmas Markets?
The best areas to stay in Berlin for Christmas Markets are Mitte, Charlottenburg, Tiergarten, Prenzlauer Berg, Friedrichshain-Kreuzberg, and Spandau. These areas have plenty of accommodations for all budgets and offer easy access to Markets on foot and by train.
Mitte is the heart of Berlin and has the highest concentration of the city’s major Christmas Markets. It is the best base for first visit. It offers a short walk/train ride to many markets including Gendarmenmarkt/Bebelplatz, Alexanderplatz, and City Hall.
Charlottenburg hosts one of the most famous Christmas markets in Berlin, the Charlottenburg Palace Christmas Market and the Kurfurstendamm Christmas Market. It’s a great area to stay if you want to focus on these markets, but it’s a bit further from the city center (still easy access by trains though).
Tiergarten is a lovely and green district, offers a quieter and more residential area with easy access to Christmas markets including the one at Kurfurstendamm and Potsdamer Platz.
Prenzlauer Berg has a cozy atmosphere, and it’s not far from Alexanderplatz popular Christmas market. The area also hosts the Lucia Christmas Market at Kulturbrauerei and Advent Market on Kollwitzplatz.
Friedrichshain-Kreuzberg has a more alternative and vibrant atmosphere and hosts the RAW-Gelände Christmas Market, Finnish Advent Bazaar, and Spreespeicher.
On my trip to Berlin, I stayed at a good value for money hotel called Hotel Nikolai Residence. It has a prime location in Mitte and only a 5 mins walk from the metro, bus or tram, making it easy to to visit Berlin’s major Christmas Markets including Gendarmenmarkt, Rotes Rathaus, and Alexanderplatz.
Spandau is known for its traditional and atmospheric Christmas market in the old town. If you’re interested in a more traditional German Christmas market experience, staying in Spandau could be a good option.
Below is a map of the popular areas in Berlin for Christmas Markets. You can scroll down to view the live map.
Let’s get into the details of the recommended areas to stay in Berlin for Christmas Markets. I’ll provide you with some suggestions for the best places to stay in each area, catering to every budget.
All hotels in Berlin have been carefully selected by me, with guest review scores of at least 8.0 or higher at the time I chose them. If you don’t like my suggestions (perhaps they don’t suit your budget or preferences), you can click the “MORE HOTEL DEALS” button where you can choose your own hotel.
6 Best areas to stay in Berlin for Christmas Markets:
1. Mitte
Mitte, without a doubt, is one the most popular areas to stay in Berlin for tourists, especially for first-timers and christmas markets. It is the heart of the city, and has excellent public transportation connections, making it a great base to explore all major Christmas markets and landmarks in Berlin.
Gendarmenmarkt Christmas Market, located at Gendarmenmarkt square, is one of the most picturesque in Berlin. It’s known for its stunning backdrop with the French Cathedral, the German Cathedral, and the Konzerthaus (Concert Hall). This market typically features high-quality crafts, food, and entertainment.
From 2022 to 2024, the Gendarmenmarkt Christmas market will be held in nearby Bebelplatz due to construction work.
Another popular Christmas market in Mitte is held at the Alexanderplatz, right in the heart of Mitte. The Christmas market here is known for its large Christmas tree and festive atmosphere.
You’ll also have easy access to the Christmas market in front of the Berlin Town Hall (Rotes Rathaus) and provides a charming setting for your Christmas market experience.
Best places to stay in Berlin in Mitte for Christmas Markets:
- Luxury ($$$): Radisson Collection Hotel, Berlin, great 5-star hotel, located in the heart of Berlin, next to the River Spree, easy access to major sights and christmas markets such as Museum Island, Berlin Cathedral, City Hall, and Alexanderplatz Square. It has Very good breakfast and an indoor swimming pool. Easy access to public transportation/taxi if you don’t want to walk.
- Mid-range ($$): ARCOTEL John F Berlin, popular 4-star hotel located in central Mitte, short distance (walking/train) from the main christmas markets in Berlin including Gendarmenmarkt Square, and Alexanderplatz. Easy access to Museum Island, Unter den Linden Boulevard, Deutsches Historisches Museum, and Brandenburg Gate.
- Budget ($): Motel One Berlin-Alexanderplatz, extremely popular hotel in the middle of Berlin (10k guest reviews with fabulous score of 8.7 on booking.com). Easy access to important sights, markets, and public transportation such as the Berlin Cathedral, Berlin TV Tower, Alexanderplatz Underground Station, and German Historical Museum.
2. Charlottenburg
Staying in Charlottenburg allows you to enjoy the quintessential Berlin Christmas market experience, with the grandeur of Charlottenburg Palace as a backdrop. Best Christmas Markets in Charlottenburg include the ones at Charlottenburg Palace and Memorial Church.
You’ll have convenient access to these renowned Christmas markets and also have the opportunity to explore the surrounding neighborhood with its upscale shops and eateries.
In addition to these markets, you can easily reach other parts of Berlin for further holiday exploration.
Best places to stay in Berlin in Charlottenburg for Christmas Markets:
- Luxury ($$$): Hotel Palace Berlin, great 5-star hotel located within easy access to the christmas markets at Kaiser Wilhelm Memorial Church and Potsdamer Platz. You can also explore nearby attractions such as Berlin Zoo, Gedächtniskirche Church and KaDeWe department store. Close to Zoologischer Garten Train Station for trains to many other markets.
- Mid-range ($$): Schlosspark Hotel, great 4-star hotel located only 10 mins walk from Berlin’s Schloss Charlottenburg palace, a great base if you want to focus on attractions and the Christmas market at the Charlottenburg palace. There is a bus nearby that can take you to Westend S-Bahn station, for further exploration in the city.
- Budget ($): Hampton by Hilton Berlin City West, great 3-star hotel located in Charlottenburg-Wilmersdorf, easy access to Uhlandstraße Underground Station, offering links to visit many Christmas Markets in the city. Especially close to the markets on Kurfürstendamm shopping street, and the Charlottenburg Palace.
3. Tiergarten
Tiergarten is a district in the heart of Berlin, known for its beautiful park and central location. Tiergarten is close to numerous Christmas Markets including the markets at Potsdamer Platz and Memorial Church.
Tiergarten provides a central base for your exploration of Berlin’s Christmas markets and other attractions. You’ll be able to enjoy the convenience of public transportation options and the park’s natural beauty while easily reaching various Christmas markets across the city.
Best places to stay in Berlin in Tiergarten for Christmas Markets:
- Luxury ($$$): Pullman Berlin Schweizerhof, 5-star hotel located right next to Tiergarten park, easy access to Berlin Zoo and Zoologischer Garten S-Bahn train station, making it a great base to explore Berlin’s sights and christmas markets such as The Potsdamer Platz and Breitscheidplatz.
- Mid-range ($$): Crowne Plaza Berlin City Centre Ku’damm, an IHG Hotel, great 4-star hotel in central Berlin, excellent transport links, within walking distance from Kaiser Wilhelm Memorial Church, and Wittenbergplatz Underground Station.
- Budget ($): SORAT Hotel Berlin, popular 4-star hotel near Tiergarten park, within walking distance from Memorial Church Christmas market, easy access to Wittenbergplatz Underground Station where you can take U2 underground to Potsdamer Platz and Alexanderplatz with the World Time Clock and TV Tower.
4. Prenzlauer Berg
Prenzlauer Berg’s Christmas markets are known for their local charm and authenticity, making it a great choice for those seeking a more intimate holiday experience.
You’ll also find a plethora of cozy cafes, restaurants, and boutique shops in the area, providing a welcoming backdrop to your stay during the holiday season.
Additionally, Prenzlauer Berg’s central location means you can easily access other parts of Berlin to explore larger Christmas markets in nearby districts.
Kollwitzplatz is at the heart of Prenzlauer Berg, and it hosts a delightful Christmas market with a focus on crafts, art, and handmade goods. This market is known for its cozy and local vibe.
Lucia Christmas Market, located at the Kulturbrauerei (Culture Brewery), just a short walk from Prenzlauer Berg, offering a Scandinavian-inspired experience with Nordic crafts, food, and a festive atmosphere.
Best places to stay in Berlin in Prenzlauer Berg for Christmas Markets:
- Mid-range ($$): Hotel Oderberger, 4-star hotel, featuring an Indoor swimming pool and very good breakfast, easy access to the district’s local christmas markets, close to U-bahn station for services to other markets in the city.
- Mid-range ($$): BENSIMON apartments Prenzlauer Berg, 4-star hotel, located in a non-tourist residential area, close to public transportation (Eberswalder Str train station).
- Budget ($): Hotel BIRGIT Berlin, 3-star Hotel in Prenzlauer Berg, within walking distance from Lucia Christmas Market at Kulturbrauerei and Advent Market on Kollwitzplatz. You’ll also be close to Hackescher Markt and Alexanderplatz, as well as Senefelderplatz Underground Station for connections to the Potsdamer Platz square and the Olympic Stadium.
5. Friedrichshain-Kreuzberg
If you’re staying in Friedrichshain-Kreuzberg and want to explore Christmas markets in the area, you’ll experience a more alternative and vibrant side of Berlin during the holiday season. Additionally, you can easily access other parts of Berlin to explore more traditional Christmas markets if you wish.
RAW Gelände Christmas Market, located in the RAW Gelände, an alternative cultural and event space in Friedrichshain, this market offers a more unconventional Christmas experience. You’ll find a variety of artisanal goods, street food, live music, and a lively atmosphere.
Best places to stay in Friedrichshain-Kreuzberg for Christmas Markets:
- Mid-range ($$): Holiday Inn Berlin City East Side, an IHG Hotel, 4-star hotel, located on the bank of the Spree River in Friedrichshain district, close to Medieval Christmas Market at the RAW Compound and the All Inclusive Christmas Market at Spreespeicher. Easy access to Warschauer Straße Underground Station and the popular East Side Gallery.
- Budget ($): Schulz Hotel Berlin Wall at the East Side Gallery, very popular hotel in the trendy Friedrichshain district, located directly next to the East Side Gallery, close to transportation.
- Luxury ($$$): Orania.Berlin, this is the only good review 5-star hotel in Friedrichshain-Kreuzberg, so if you want to stay in a luxury 5-star hotel in this neighborhood, this is a good choice. It is close to many bars and cafes in a vibrant part of town. Easy access to Public transit to explore christmas markets and attractions in Berlin.
6. Spandau
Spandau is known for hosting one of Berlin’s most famous and historic Christmas markets. While it is somewhat farther from the city center, the experience it offers during the holiday season can be well worth the trip.
The Spandau Christmas Market is one of the most iconic and traditional Christmas markets in Berlin. It’s known for its historical setting, with its charming Old Town (Altstadt) providing a picturesque backdrop.
The market features numerous stalls selling gifts, crafts, and delicious seasonal treats like Glühwein (mulled wine), roasted chestnuts, and more.
You can enjoy live music and entertainment, including carol singers and street performances.
The market often includes a large ice rink, making it a great place for ice skating.
Staying in Spandau offers the advantage of being within walking distance of this famous Christmas market, allowing you to immerse yourself in the festive atmosphere.
Beyond the Christmas market, Spandau’s Old Town is a picturesque area with historic buildings, shops, and restaurants. It’s worth exploring the neighborhood to experience its unique charm.
The Citadel Spandau is a historic fortress and cultural site located in Spandau. It often hosts events and exhibitions, so check if there are any special holiday-themed events happening during your visit.
Spandau is situated along the Havel River, and during the holiday season, you might find special river cruises or scenic walks along the riverbanks with holiday-themed decorations and lights.
Best places to stay in Berlin in Spandau for Christmas Markets:
- Budget ($): Hotel Lindenufer, 3-star hotel located in the pedestrianized historic quarter of Berlin-Spandau, near Spandau’s famous Zitadelle, convenient location to see numerous christmas markets in the area. The U-bahn train station is also within walking distance away from the hotel.
- Budget ($): Hotel Benn, 3-star family-run hotel in Spandau district, easy walk from the St. Nikolaikirche church and Spandau Citadel. 3 mins walk from Altstadt Spandau U-Bahn (underground) station for services to central Berlin.
- Budget ($): Brauhaus in Spandau, great accommodation, easy access to old town Spandau within a short walk to underground or main line train stations.
In conclusion, Mitte, Charlottenburg, Tiergarten, Prenzlauer Berg, Friedrichshain-Kreuzberg, and Spandau are the best places to stay in Berlin for Christmas Markets. They all offer easy access to major Markets, so just pick a hotel in these areas that suits your budget and close to public transportation.
You can continue reading about Berlin and other destinations in Germany in these articles:
- Safest areas to stay in Berlin for first-time visitors.
- Best areas to stay in Frankfurt for Christmas Markets
- Best areas to Stay in Cologne for Christmas Markets
- Best areas to stay in Munich for Christmas Markets
- Best places to Stay in Nuremberg for Christmas Markets
I hope you enjoyed my article and find it informative and helpful. If you have any questions or would like to share your thoughts, please don’t hesitate to leave a comment below. Your feedback is invaluable and helps me continue to create more quality travel guides.