Berlin is a city of sharp differences. On the one hand, there are constant reminders of its turbulent past. But it’s also a contemporary megalopolis, nine times the size of Paris geographically, with intriguing new attractions and a built-in subversiveness. It is a unique destination as a result of this contrast. One of the most enchanted occasions to visit Berlin is around Christmas. There is more going on than just the holiday season and Santa Claus. For a true flavor of winter in Germany’s capital city, sip gluhwein while strolling through the lit streets, ice skate at Potsdamer Platz, and head outside to the lake blanketed in frost. Read through to find out how and where you can spend your next Christmas vacation in Berlin.
Best Time to Visit Berlin
In Berlin, May through October is the busiest travel season. The weather is usually pleasant, making it a great time to stroll around, visit historical buildings, relax in the many green spaces, and eat outside. Due to the less pleasant weather, winter is not the season when most tourists travel. Holiday celebrations, particularly the legendary Christmas markets, are a bright spot in what might otherwise feel like a very long, gloomy few months.
Best Hotels to Stay in Berlin While on Vacation
We’ve compiled a list of the best hotels you can stay in Berlin while you’re on vacation.
#1. Hotel de Rome
The Hotel de Rome is housed in the 19th-century Dresden Bank’s former headquarters on Bebelplatz in the old part of Berlin. The most intriguing original element of this renowned Rocco Forte building that has been brilliantly conserved is the gem vault that is now an indoor swimming pool. Stylish furnishings and vibrant accessories give the space a modern feel.
#2. Orania Berlin
Oriana is a luxurious addition to Kreuzberg’s more gritty side. Berlin is a boutique destination with a sophisticated yet completely carefree sensibility. It’s difficult to pin down one particular element that makes this hotel so exceptional, but jazz in the open-concept lobby and subtle Asian elements, such as headboards covered in fabric with elephant prints and the restaurant’s distinctive crispy-skinned duck, all contribute.
#3. SO Berlin Das Stue
When you first arrive, SO/ Berlin Das Stue seems quite upscale. The KaDeWe architect Johann Emil Schaudt’s neoclassical structure, constructed in the 1930s, unquestionably makes a royal first impression. It’s just as opulent inside the old Royal Danish Embassy, with a striking white marble staircase and brilliant, larger-than-life chandelier. A benefit is a direct access to the Berlin Zoo.
#4. Hotel Adlon Kempinski
The Hotel Adlon Kempinski is located across from the Brandenburg Gate and (perhaps) has one of Berlin’s most prestigious addresses. Apart from its desirable location, this five-star hotel is a beloved icon for a variety of additional reasons. Grandeur and elegance are at the very core of everything, from the lavish lobby and vast rooms to the Michelin-starred restaurant.
#5. Hotel am Steinplatz, Autograph Collection
Today, Hotel am Steinplatz still exudes the same glitz and sophistication that drew celebrities like Brigitte Bardo there. No one would argue with the magnificently updated interiors (or the enhanced amenities, for that matter), yet the unique Art Nouveau characteristics are still there. Additionally, the Berlin Zoo, Potsdamer Platz, and Tiergarten are all close by.
Christmas Vacation in Berlin
Germany makes the most of the holiday season, and the capital is no exception, with festive markets, glistening light displays, and landmarks lighted against the winter sky. Here are some wonderful Christmas celebrations you may have in Berlin.
#1. Visit the Christmas markets
This is one of the best places to visit in Berlin on Christmas vacation. Berlin’s Christmas markets are undoubtedly the place to go if you’re looking for unusual holiday gifts or want to eat some famed currywurst. Try the market at the Bröhan Museum, directly across from Charlottenburg Palace, if you’re looking for something more distinctive. There is no shortage of wine, cake, and sausages, but there are also unique artworks, handcrafted goods, and odd objects for sale.
#2. Explore the Haus am Waldsee
One of Berlin’s top modern art galleries may not be in a country house fit for an English period drama, but if you’re looking for incredibly chic gifts, this is the spot. Learn about the paintings and sculptures created by Berlin’s most promising young artists by taking an audio tour of the property. After that, you can take a stroll through the 10,000 square meter (107,000 square foot) garden and explore the ever-evolving sculptures.
#3. Visit the KaDeWe Candy Counter to Reward Yourself.
The renowned KaDeWe department store in Berlin is one of the biggest of its kind on the continent. Its huge food hall, which takes up the full sixth story, will astound you. Although there are more than 35,000 things available, save room in your suitcase for goodies at its “candy counter,” which features bright gondolas and chutes reminiscent of the 1930s floating candies throughout the space. Eat your heart out Willy Wonka!
#4. Discover the Old Town of Spandau
This is also one of the best places for your Christmas vacation in Berlin. It’s debatable whether Spandau’s Christmas market is the best in the city, but it certainly piques people’s curiosity. The market is built up in Spandau’s Old Town, which gives it a distinctly old-world European air. How about a cultural experience with over 200 sellers from different countries at the Christmas market? Consider going for the Ukrainian cuisine and staying to have a Konditorei Fester dessert.
#5. Enjoy New Year’s Eve in Berlin
Every year, New Year’s Eve brings with it a party-filled night with copious amounts of alcohol. The Brandenburg Gate hosts Berlin’s largest event, which includes live music, DJs, and the customary midnight fireworks display. You can attend for free, but be forewarned: the crowds start to form as early as 10 am. The Oberbaumbrücke, a beautiful vantage point over the Spree River, is one of the greatest alternate locations to sneak a kiss when the clock strikes 12.
#6. Visit the Alexanderplatz Funfair and Ride the Ferris Wheel
Alexanderplatz is where you may find a carousel, a haunted house, and a Ferris wheel. Both missing and resisting are difficult. The largest walk-through Christmas pyramid in Europe is decked with more than 5,000 lights and is one of the attractions. For a clear perspective of the entire city, climb to the summit. After that, browse the market while sipping mulled wine and eating gingerbread, maybe picking up a few tchotchkes (decorative trinkets).
Is Berlin Worth Visiting?
Berlin is the ideal place for a city break in Europe. Ticking all the boxes, the buzzing metropolis boasts a killer nightlife scene, amazing local food, a rich history, world-famous beer and some of the most remarkable sights and museums in the world.
How Many Days in Berlin Is Enough?
Sure, you can run through the best of Berlin in one day, but it takes at least three full days to just scratch the surface of Berlin. Add in a day trip or two and before you know it, you need four to five days to explore this city.
Which Is Better Berlin or Paris?
Depends on what you’re looking for! Berlin is known for its crazy nightlife and vibrant culture while Paris has a reputation for being one of the most romantic and best cities in Europe.
Is it OK to Speak English in Berlin?
Berlin, Germany’s most multicultural city, is already considered by its dwellers to be more or less bilingual. It’s possible to get by speaking English and knowing very little German.
Conclusion
We hope you enjoyed the post about Christmas vacation in Berlin! There are plenty of things to do while visiting Berlin over the holiday period. From traditional music to Christmas markets, there is a lot to do. We hope that you take advantage of these unique opportunities and make the most of your time in Berlin this Christmas.
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FAQs About Vacation in Berlin
Is Berlin good for tourists?
Berlin is the ideal place for a city break in Europe. Ticking all the boxes, the buzzing metropolis boasts a killer nightlife scene, amazing local food, a rich history, world-famous beer and some of the most remarkable sights and museums in the world.
Which area in Berlin is best stay?
Kreuzberg. When trying to find the perfect place to stay in Berlin, don’t limit your search to Mitte. Kreuzberg is the city’s hippest central district. It is one of the city’s best districts for travellers looking to experience a more “local” vibe.
Is Berlin walkable?
Berlin is part of the global walkability movement: here the public discussion and official planning process about pedestrian-friendly places and walkability are more present than ever.