Snow falling, fairy lights twinkling, and the sweet scent of roasted almonds in the air: Christmas time in Berlin turns the city into a real-life winter wonderland.

For international students who study in Berlin at Christmas, this season is more than just festive decorations; it’s a chance to dive into one of Germany’s most beloved traditions. Visiting Germany's Christmas markets as a student is a unique cultural experience, and Berlin offers some of the best markets of all.

From traditional crafts to warm Glühwein (mulled wine) and cosy Christmas market vibes, Christmas in Berlin perfectly blends German heritage with modern student life. Let's learn more about the holiday season in Germany and explore the best Christmas markets in Berlin.

## What to see and taste in Berlin during Christmas

Dating back to the 14th century, Germany's Christmas markets symbolise togetherness, tradition and joy. Around the first Advent, more than 70 markets appear throughout Berlin, offering a wide range of goods, from handmade crafts to steaming mugs of Glühwein. Christmas markets are a beloved German Christmas tradition.

Whether you’re into cosy evenings or lively crowds, there’s a Berlin Christmas market that fits your style, and plenty of Instagram-worthy moments are waiting for you.

### Top Five Christmas Markets You Can’t Miss

#### Charlottenburg Palace Christmas Market

Set against the backdrop of a glowing baroque palace, this German Christmas market is all about timeless charm. You’ll find elegant stalls, warm drinks, twinkling lights and one of the most romantic atmospheres in the city. Perfect for a peaceful evening walk during the festive season.

#### Alexanderplatz Christmas Market

Right in the city centre, this one’s full of energy: A Ferris wheel, an ice rink, and endless stalls with snacks and souvenirs. It’s a must for anyone looking for that big-city Christmas vibe.

#### Gendarmenmarkt

Elegant, festive, and famous - this is Berlin’s most iconic Christmas market. Watch live choirs sing classics like Stille Nacht (Silent Night), browse handmade gifts, and enjoy a cup of Glühwein under the twinkling lights.

#### Lucia Market at Kulturbrauerei

Inspired by Scandinavian traditions, this market is cosy and creative. You’ll find warm berry wine (instead of the usual mulled wine), small bonfires, and an alternative Berlin crowd.

#### Spandau Christmas Market

For those who prefer local charm, head to Spandau’s old town. The market spreads across medieval streets, with hundreds of stalls and a relaxed, authentic feel.

### Must-try German Christmas treats

Don’t leave without tasting these German Christmas classics:

- Glühwein: as in spiced hot wine or mulled wine.

- Lebkuchen: chocolate- or powdered sugar-covered gingerbread cookies.

- Bratwurst: grilled sausage, often enjoyed with ketchup and mustard.

- Gebrannte Mandeln: roasted caramelized almonds that fill the air with a sweet scent.

## Tips for International Students

- Visit on weekdays to avoid crowds.

- Bring cash, as not all stalls accept credit cards.

- Dress warm (Berlin winters can be freezing).

- Learn a few German words like “Frohe Weihnachten!”, which translates to "Merry Christmas!”

### Are you ready to celebrate Christmas in Germany?

At IU International University of Applied Sciences, studying in Berlin means more than lectures and libraries. It’s about living the full experience. Meet new friends, explore German Christmas traditions, and create unforgettable moments under cosy Christmas trees, all while building your future.

## FAQs

Christmas in Germany is generally celebrated on the evening of the 24th of December - Christmas Eve (Heiligabend). That's when all the traditional gift exchange happens. While the 24th of December is still a normal work day, it's followed by two public holidays: the 25th (First Christmas Day) and the 26th (Second Christmas Day) of December. That's when many Germans take the time to visit friends and extended family.

Germans celebrate Christmas with family gatherings, festive meals, church services, gift-giving, and visiting Christmas markets. Baking cookies or singing Christmas carols (like "O Tannenbaum") together with family and friends is also very popular. Advent calendars, often filled with chocolates, which count down the time from the beginning of December to Christmas Day, are especially beloved by kids.

Typical foods include roasted goose with red cabbage, potato salad, Stollen (fruit bread), Lebkuchen (gingerbread), sausages, and various Christmas cookies.

Usually, Christmas markets are open during the entire Advent season. This means they start on the first Advent weekend, which is usually around late November, and run for four Sundays. Some markets can even last until New Year's Eve. It's always best to check the specific website to find out more about opening times.

German Christmas trees are traditionally decorated with lights, glass ornaments, tinsel, and sometimes edible decorations like gingerbread or chocolate. A star or Christmas angel often tops the Christmas tree.

Christmas celebrations in Germany date back to the early Middle Ages, around the 4th or 5th century, blending Christian and local pagan traditions.

Must-see locations include various Berlin Christmas markets, the Brandenburg Gate, Charlottenburg Palace, as well as festive events like ice skating rinks and holiday concerts. Tip: Use public transport to get around the city easily.

While Berlin offers many options, other top cities include Nuremberg, Dresden, Cologne, and Munich for their famous Christmas markets.

Santa Claus is known as Weihnachtsmann. But in some regions of Germany, Christkind (Christ Child) is the traditional gift-bringer.

Snow in Berlin around Christmas is possible but not guaranteed. Winter weather can be cold and frosty, but snowfall varies year to year.

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