Best things to do in Berlin this Christmas

Move over London, step aside Paris, Rome take a back seat - the European capital of cool is now, undoubtedly, Berlin.

While culture vultures can head to the German capital at any time of year and be dazzled by its history, creative vibes and thriving food scene, there is something particularly special about this must-see travel destination over the festive season when the city turns into a real-life Christmas picture book. Here is the Hood guide to help you eat, drink and be merry in Berlin this winter…

Where to stay

Berlin is more budget friendly than most of the other European capitals and there is a vast array of hotels, hostels and Airbnbs to choose from. We wanted a little touch of glamour and chose to stay at the charming, budget boutique hotel, Max Brown Ku’damm, which is on the border of the Wilmersdorf District and leafy Charlottenburg. This relaxed, residential neighbourhood is a foodie delight with over a hundred restaurants in walking distance.

The Max is one of Berlin’s hippest abodes with Insta-worthy interiors and a colourful blend of mid-century furniture and exposed copper piping. The hotel is close to all of the city’s sights, best boutiques, the famed Paris Bar and Germany’s first concept mall, BIKINI. Rooms are compact, as most in Berlin are, but the beds are a dream – which is exactly what is needed after all that exploring.

Where to eat

Meandering the streets and stopping off for coffee and cake at a konditorei is an integral part of visiting Berlin, but it is the burgeoning gastro scene that is ultimately worth investigating.

Housed in an electricity substation, built back in 1928, Restaurant Volt is definitely one to try. A Berlin native, chef Matthias Gleiß has a passion for local, seasonal ingredients with which he creates a menu fused with traditional Berlin cuisine and German home-made classics.

For a real taste of Berlin’s cultural melting pot, we recommend Neni – perfect at this time of year, as Christmas is all about sharing, after all. The culinary union of Mediterranean, Persian and Austrian influences makes for a colourful, flavour-packed, sharing plate dining experience. Oh… and did we mention the panoramic view over the city lights and the Berlin Zoo is thrown in for free?

For a splash of grown-up ‘20s glamour, cocktails and supper at the Grace is essential. A creative menu inspired by chef Martin Bruhn's trips to Mexico and Southeast Asia, with an urban twist, Grace is the place to see and be seen.

Where to go

However, Christmas in Berlin is all about the markets and with around 80 spread out across the city there are plenty to explore while indulging in bratwurst, waffles and, of course, a Gluhwein or two. 

It’s no surprise that ‘Winterwelt’ at Potsdamer Platz is one of the locals’ favourite markets. Open from the beginning of November, the iconic square is transformed into a winter wonderland, home to Europe’s largest toboggan, live DJ set and an après-ski party in the evening.

Elsewhere in the city, the huge Alexanderplatz Christmas Market attracts thousands of people from all over the world looking for - and finding - that magical Christmas atmosphere. The central point is the pyramid of lights which is visually spectacular.

The Charlottenburg Palace is a must-visit at any time of the year but at Christmas it’s even more stunning, adorned with hundreds of lights and the cutest food and gift stalls.