LATE NOVEMBER – CHRISTMAS EVE, ANNUALLY
Only the flintiest of hearts could resist the charms of a German Christmas market, and needless to say, Berlin boasts some of the best.
Around 60 markets pop up at the end of November and the rosy-cheeked crowds come flocking. Germany has a rich history of Christmas markets and to this day you’ll find traditional crafts and a host of local treats. The scent of baked apples, roasting chestnuts and gingerbread wafts among stalls of wooden dolls and lambskin shoes. The largest market is in Spandau Old Town in West Berlin, while the more central Gendarmenmarkt is one of the most pretty. The Christmas market at Charlottenburg Palace arguably shows this magnificent site at its best, or for something more hair-raising, try the toboggan run at Potsdamer Platz. Whichever market you choose, warm yourself with a glühwein (mulled wine) and have a good explore. Tap your foot to a vaudeville band, sing a carol or don a pair of ice skates. Whether you have children with you or not, you are sure to leave with a big Yuletide smile.
www.germany-christmas-market.org.uk