Gedächtniskirche Christmas Market: Best Ways to Arrive (Map & Key Tips)

Christmas in Berlin is one of the pinnacles of the European festive season. Very few, if any, cities or even countries do it better, and it’s well worth a trip to experience the magic for yourself. Nowhere is this more apparent than at the Weihnachtsmarkt an der Kaiser-Wilhelm-Gedächtniskirche – one of the capital’s most beloved Christmas markets.

Picture a 400-metre carpet of twinkling lights stretching across Breitscheidplatz, the sweet aroma of roasted almonds mixing with the rich scent of mulled wine, and the iconic silhouette of the Gedächtniskirche (Memorial Church) rising against the winter sky.

Located in the heart of City West, right where Kurfürstendamm meets Tauentzienstraße, this market is the perfect blend of Berlin’s shopping culture and festive tradition. With over two million visitors each year (that’s 35,000 - 45,000 people daily during peak season), it’s easy to see why this spot has become synonymous with Berlin’s Christmas spirit.

Whether you’re hunting for unique gifts, warming up with a cup of Glühwein, or simply soaking in the holiday atmosphere, getting here is easier than you might think.

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When to Visit: Dates and Opening Hours

The 2025 Gedächtniskirche Christmas Market runs for an impressive stretch:

Dates: November 24, 2025 – January 4, 2026

That’s right – unlike many Christmas markets that close on December 26th, this one keeps the festive vibes going right into the new year.

During this time, you can during:

• Sunday through Thursday: 11:00 AM – 9:00 PM
• Friday and Saturday: 11:00 AM – 10:00 PM

As well as special holiday Christmas hours, which are:

• Christmas Eve (December 24): 11:00 AM – 2:00 PM
• Christmas Day (December 25): 1:00 PM – 9:00 PM
• New Year’s Eve (December 31): 11:00 AM – 8:00 PM
• New Year’s Day (January 1): 1:00 PM – 9:00 PM

Best part? Admission is completely free. No tickets, no hassle – just show up and enjoy.

You can find the full official guide here (although it just says the same thing!)

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Special Events to Know About

Keep an eye out for these special happenings:

• Charitable Glühwein Sale: On select dates, AG City and the Schaustellerverband Berlin organise a special charity mulled wine sale. All proceeds go to the DRK Wärmebus (warmth bus), which helps homeless people during Berlin’s cold months.
• Christmas Mass and Music: The Kaiser Wilhelm Memorial Church hosts special Christmas services and musical performances throughout the season. Check the church’s schedule if you’re interested in attending.
• UGREEN at the Market: This year, UGREEN is participating in the Christmas market festivities.

To make your visit even more memorable, UGREEN is bringing a full lineup of festive activities, gifts, and on-site experiences to the Gedächtniskirche Christmas Market. Whether you’re recharging your phone, taking seasonal photos, or trying your luck at one of the booth’s games, you’ll find plenty of ways to enjoy the holiday spirit.

Special UGREEN Highlights at the Market

Use the magic word “UGREENXMAS006” to receive an extra gift at our booth! One gift per person. Supplies are limited, so get yours while you can! On-site only.

Beyond the magic-word giveaway, our booth at the Gedächtniskirche Christmas Market is packed with interactive experiences designed to keep you charged, entertained, and fully immersed in the festive spirit. Whether you’re taking photos, ringing bells, or collecting gifts, each activity adds a touch of holiday magic.

1. Free Charging Station #PowerUpZone

• Try out UGREEN products while enjoying free charging!
• Details: Charge as much as you like, whenever you like. Come and go freely.
• Free Power Bank Rental: Simply leave a €20 deposit, grab a wristband, and start using your rented UGREEN power bank.

2. Christmas Bell Game #RingAndWin

• Ring the bell and win a mystery gift!
• Details: To join, scan the QR code and sign up to the UGREEN UK website. Each person can take part once during the event.
• Gifts: UGREEN gift sets, top products, and a range of accessories.

3. Photobooth #SnapYourXmas

• Capture your most magical Christmas moment!
• Details: Scan the QR code, sign up to the UGREEN UK site, and share your Christmas Market snap on social media. Once per person.
• Gift: Get an instant photo to take home.

4. Sticky Hands Game #StickAndWin

• Details: Follow UGREEN UK on social media, post a photo with the hashtag #UGREENXMAS, and play in pairs. Each team gets three throws. Each person can participate once during the event.
• Gifts: Christmas mystery boxes, UGREEN products, and other festive goodies.

5. UGREEN Advent Giveaway

If you can’t make it to the Gedächtniskirche Christmas Market in Berlin — or you simply want even more chances to win — the celebration continues online through the UGREEN Advent Giveaway, a 24-day holiday event packed with premium prizes that makes December even more exciting for our community.

Starting on December 1, the official UGREEN.uk account on Instagram will be hosting a 24-day Advent giveaway. Prizes include a full set of Apple devices! Make sure to mark your calendar!

6. UGREEN Xmas Saturn Special

With this voucher, you can enjoy an exclusive 25% discount on UGREEN products at the Saturn store next to the Christmas market*. Valid on full-price items valued at €30 or more. Offer lasts until 15 January 2026.

*Saturn Europa-Center, Tauentzienstraße 9, 10789 Berlin.

Check out the map below to locate our booth—we’ll be there with gifts, games, and festive cheer!

What You’ll Find at the Gedächtniskirche Christmas Market

With over 100 beautifully decorated wooden stalls, this market is a feast for the senses.

You’ll discover everything from traditional handcrafted Christmas ornaments and glass art to lovingly made toys and festive decorations. The food scene is equally impressive – expect to find classic German treats like Bratwurst, Reibekuchen (potato pancakes), gebrannte Mandeln (candied almonds), and of course, plenty of Glühwein varieties to keep you warm.

Great for foodies, Instagrammers, and those who have felt the Christmas spirit may have faded a little in recent years and want to feel its full force once again.

However, as above, the real showstopper?

That incredible 400-meter Lichterteppich (carpet of lights) illuminates the entire square, creating an atmosphere that’s equal parts romantic and festive. Add in the giant light installations perfect for your Instagram feed, and you’ve got yourself an unforgettable Berlin experience.

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Getting There: Public Transport (The Smart Way)

Berlin’s public transport system makes getting to the Gedächtniskirche Christmas Market incredibly straightforward, and it is the recommended way to go, unless you live or are staying within walking distance.

All stations are within a 3-5 minute walk from the market entrance, and you’ll spot the church tower from pretty much anywhere nearby.

U-Bahn (Underground)

Your best bets are:

• U2 or U9 → Zoologischer Garten Station
• U1 → Kurfürstendamm station

Both options drop you right in the action. Zoologischer Garten is probably your closest option, putting you literally steps away from Breitscheidplatz.

S-Bahn (Overground Train)

If you’re coming from further out or connecting from another part of the city:

• S3, S5, S7, or S9 → Zoologischer Garten Station

The S-Bahn and U-Bahn stations at Zoologischer Garten are in the same complex, making transfers super easy.

Bus Lines

Berlin’s bus network also serves the area well. These lines all stop at Zoologischer Garten:

• Express buses: X9, X10, X34
• Metro buses: M45, M46, M49
• Regular lines: 100, 109, 110, 200, 204, 245, 249

Pro tip: If you’re staying in Berlin for a few days, grab a Berlin Welcome Card or a day pass. You’ll save money and won’t have to worry about buying individual tickets for each journey.

Driving and Parking Options

Let’s be honest – driving in central Berlin during the Christmas market season isn’t ideal, but sometimes it’s necessary. If you’re coming by car, here’s what you need to know.

Recommended Parking

The Europa-Center Parkhaus (parking garage) is your best option. It’s located right next to the market – literally a few minutes’ walk away.

The downside?

Parking spaces fill up fast, especially on weekends and during the holiday season. If you’re planning to drive, aim to arrive early in the day or consider coming on a weekday when it’s less crowded.

Driving Directions

Coming from Mitte (city centre)? Take this route:

• Drive through Tiergarten → Kantstraße → Breitscheidplatz

Arriving via the Autobahn A100?

• Take the Kurfürstendamm exit for the most direct access

Just keep in mind that parking in this area costs money, and the meter keeps ticking. For most visitors, we’d honestly recommend sticking with public transport – it’s faster, cheaper, and way less stressful.

Source: YouTube

Finding Your Way: Walking Directions

Once you exit your train or bus, finding the market is simple. Just follow the crowds! But seriously, here’s what to look for:

Walk along Tauentzienstraße and you’ll see the distinctive church tower (Kirchturm) rising ahead of you.

The ruined spire of the Kaiser-Wilhelm-Gedächtniskirche is hard to miss – it stands as a powerful memorial to peace and reconciliation after World War II.

The Christmas market spreads out across Breitscheidplatz, right opposite the Europa-Center shopping mall. Once you see the lights covering the entire square, you’ll know you’re in the right place.

The whole area is pedestrian-friendly and beautifully lit, making it perfect for an evening stroll.

Navigation tip: If you want to be extra prepared, drop “Breitscheidplatz, 10789 Berlin” into Google Maps before you leave. The app works great in Berlin and will guide you right to the entrance.

Shopping and Dining Around the Market

One of the best things about this Christmas market is its prime location. Within a two-minute walk, you’ll find:

• Europa-Centre – A shopping complex with multiple stores
• Saturn Berlin – A major electronics retailer where you can find UGREEN products for all your charging and connectivity needs
• Apple Store Berlin Kurfürstendamm – For all you Apple fans
• Dyson Store Berlin – If you’re into premium home tech

The surrounding area is packed with department stores, brand boutiques, restaurants, and cafés. It’s the perfect setup: hit the shops during the day, then transition to the Christmas market as the lights come on at dusk.

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A Perfect Day Out: Suggested Itinerary

If you want to make the most of your visit, here’s our recommended route:

• Afternoon (2:00 PM – 5:00 PM): Start with some shopping. Check out KaDeWe (the famous department store) or explore the boutiques along Kurfürstendamm. This is prime shopping territory, and you’ll find everything from luxury brands to unique local shops.
• Dusk (5:00 PM – 6:00 PM): Make your way to the Christmas market as the sun sets. This is the magic hour – when the lights first come on and the market transitions from day to night.
• Evening (6:00 PM – 9:00 PM): Enjoy dinner at the market (those food stalls are calling your name) and soak in the Christmas atmosphere. Grab a Glühwein, find a heated seating area, and just enjoy the festive spirit.

This itinerary works perfectly for couples looking for a romantic evening, families wanting a full-day out, or photography enthusiasts seeking that perfect shot.

Practical Tips for Your Visit

Cash is King

While Berlin is becoming more card-friendly, many Christmas market stalls still operate on a cash-only basis, especially the smaller makers and trinket stalls.

Bring small euro bills and coins – you’ll need them for food, drinks, and gifts. Budget around €20-50 in cash, depending on how much you plan to eat and shop.

Best Time to Visit

If you want to avoid the biggest crowds while still enjoying the full atmosphere, aim for 4:30 PM – 6:30 PM on weekdays. The lights are on, creating that magical ambience, but it’s before the peak evening rush. Weekends get packed, especially the closer you get to Christmas.

Photography Spots

The most Instagram-worthy spots include:

• Standing in front of the church tower with the lights behind you
• Under the 400-meter Lichterteppich for those dramatic upward shots
• Next to the giant illuminated sculptures at the market entrance
• The lit-up fountain in front of the Europa-Centre

Dress for Berlin Winter

Berlin winters can be cold and windy – we’re talking temperatures often hovering around freezing, with that biting wind that seems to cut right through you. It is literally winter, after all.

Here’s how to stay comfortable:

• Layer up: A windproof jacket is essential
• Warm shoes: You’ll be walking on cobblestones and standing around, so insulated, waterproof boots with non-slip soles are your friends
• Accessories matter: Gloves, scarf, and a warm hat make all the difference
• Keep your devices charged: Speaking of staying prepared, cold weather drains phone batteries faster. If you’re planning to take lots of photos or use navigation apps, make sure your phone is fully charged – or better yet, bring a portable power bank to keep your devices running all evening

Keep Your Belongings Safe

With crowds come pickpockets. It’s a problem in every major city. While Berlin is considered relatively safe, just be aware and smart, and you’ll reduce the risks of any problems.

Thieves steer clear of people who look smart, have their wits about them, and don’t make themselves easy targets.

Keep your phone, wallet, and other valuables in secure, front-facing pockets or a crossbody bag. Stay aware of your surroundings, especially in the busiest areas.

Facilities

Need a restroom? Head to the Europa-Center – they have public facilities inside the shopping mall.

Must-Try Food and Drinks

To get the best German Christmas experience, don’t leave without trying:

Drinks:

• Glühwein (hot mulled wine) – the classic choice
• Feuerzangenbowle (flaming mulled wine) – for something more dramatic
• Eierpunsch (eggnog punch) – creamy and warming

Food:

• Bratwurst – German sausages are a must
• Reibekuchen – crispy potato pancakes often served with applesauce
• Gebrannte Mandeln – sweet roasted almonds
• Lebkuchen and Stollen – traditional Christmas cookies and bread

Souvenirs and Gift Ideas

The handcrafted items here make for perfect gifts. Look for:

• Wooden figurines (Holzfiguren) and traditional nutcrackers
• Glass Christmas ornaments (Christbaumkugeln aus Glas)
• Handmade candle holders (Kerzenhalter)
• Unique Christmas decorations (Weihnachtsschmuck)

Many stalls now accept cards, and some even offer delivery services if you’re buying larger items. But again, have cash on hand just in case.

Final Thoughts: Make the Most of Your Visit

Getting to the Gedächtniskirche Christmas Market is straightforward, but the experience itself is anything but ordinary. With its perfect location, free admission, and extended hours that stretch into the new year, it’s one of those Berlin experiences that stays with you long after you’ve left.

Whether you’re a Berlin local looking for your annual dose of Christmas magic or a visitor wanting to experience authentic German holiday traditions, this market delivers.

Just remember to dress warmly, bring cash, charge your devices (or pack that power bank), and give yourself plenty of time to wander, taste, and soak it all in.

However, there’s obviously no right or wrong way to experience the beauty of this market.

Some people come for the shopping, others for the food, and many just for the atmosphere. Whatever brings you to Breitscheidplatz, you’re in for a treat.

See you at the market!