Guide to the German Christmas Markets<\/a>, where I detail the dates, locations and specialities of various markets around the country.<\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n\n\n\nWhat to Expect at Bebelplatz<\/h2>\n\n\n\nLocal Food Specialties<\/h3>\n\n\n\n Wiener Schnitzel<\/strong>: You’ll find authentic Wiener Schnitzel served by Lutter & Wegner, an establishment with over 200 years of tradition. Paired with exquisite wines, this dish makes for a satisfying, classic meal, especially in a cosy atmosphere with a direct view of the market’s Christmas tree and historic cr\u00e8che.<\/p>\n\n\n\nHomemade Sauerbraten<\/strong>: Another German-Austrian speciality to savour at Lutter & Wegner’s Christmas cottage is the homemade Sauerbraten. It’s a pot roast, usually of beef, slow-cooked as pot roast should be.<\/p>\n\n\n\nCrispy Duck<\/strong>: This dish can be complemented by a broad selection of wines available.<\/p>\n\n\n\nSwiss Cheese Fondue<\/strong>: Enjoy the warming embrace of Original Swiss Cheese Fondue at the T-House. Accompany it with its variety of wines, beers, and spirits, all served in a setting that pays attention to safety with air purifiers.<\/p>\n\n\n\nHot Limoncello<\/strong>: T-House also serves a unique Hot Limoncello, ideal for taking the chill off cold winter nights. A unique take on traditional mulled wine or hot cider. <\/p>\n\n\n\nTyrolean Ham & Cheese<\/strong>: You’ll encounter rustic ham and cheese specialities from Tyrol. These locally produced items provide a taste of the Austrian Alps right in Berlin.<\/p>\n\n\n\nPizza and Lasagna<\/strong>: For a dash of Italian spirit, the market features a range of Italian dishes like pizza and lasagna, all set in a typical Italian atmosphere with vintner wine pairings.<\/p>\n\n\n\nCheese-Sp\u00e4tzle:<\/strong> The chalet under the Christmas tree serves up traditional cheese-sp\u00e4tzle. To add to this classic dish, you can choose additional flavours like truffle or Austrian bacon.<\/p>\n\n\n\nHomemade Soups<\/strong>: There’s a homemade soup for every palate, from vegan to gluten-free options. These warm, comforting bowls are available at the unique meeting point near the Christmas tree.<\/p>\n\n\n\nMashed Potatoes<\/strong>: The Christmas Cocktail Club brings a modern twist with its selection of creamy mashed potatoes, complete with extravagant toppings ranging from egg Benedict to truffle and ratatouille.<\/p>\n\n\n\nPotato Soup and Cream of Pumpkin Soup<\/strong>: In the section devoted to Bavarian cuisine, you’ll find hearty soups such as potato and cream of pumpkin. These soups are an excellent starting point for sampling traditional Bavarian dishes.<\/p>\n\n\n\nKasseler (Smoked Pork Chop):<\/strong> Bavarian cuisine also includes Kasseler, a type of smoked pork chop, typically served with sauerkraut or potatoes, providing a hearty meal.<\/p>\n\n\n\nCurly Kale with Sausage<\/strong>: A more rustic Bavarian option is curly kale served with sausage. It’s a simple, hearty dish that resonates with the winter season.<\/p>\n\n\n\nChampagne<\/strong>: For those interested in elevated beverages, the market provides options like Veuve Clicquot, Louis Roederer Champagne, and Schlumberger Sparkling Wine from Austria.<\/p>\n\n\n\nHot Vintner Punch<\/strong>: To experience regional flavours in a beverage, try the Hot Vintner Punch from Austria, available alongside an array of cakes and platters.<\/p>\n\n\n\nThis list gives you an array of options to explore, from traditional German and Austrian dishes to international favourites, all at the heated Christmas stalls in Bebelplatz. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Unique Gifts and Shopping<\/h3>\n\n\n\n Precious Glass Art<\/strong>: For those who appreciate delicate craftsmanship, the Gendarmentmarkt Christmas Market features precious glass art perfect for special occasions. Crafted by skilled artisans, each piece is unique and serves as a luxurious gift or elegant home decor.<\/p>\n\n\n\nWooden Carvings and Turnings<\/strong>: Another hallmark of Gendarmenmarkt is the wooden products, intricately worked by skilled carvers and turners. They bring out the diversity and richness of the material, making each piece not just a utilitarian object but a work of art in its own right.<\/p>\n\n\n\nCustomised Belts & Bags<\/strong>: If you’re in need of a quality, long-lasting accessory, look for the stalls that sell customised belts and bags. These are made from fine materials like Koberind, ostrich, and ray and come in functional and exceptional styles.<\/p>\n\n\n\nCeramics<\/strong>: The market is also great for finding ceramics ranging from functional design to imaginative forms. Whether you\u2019re looking for a functional tableware piece or a decorative object, there\u2019s something for everyone.<\/p>\n\n\n\nMetalwork<\/strong>: For something a bit more elemental, there are stalls featuring metal crafts. These items are worked into luminous and flowing objects, perfect for those who appreciate the raw beauty of materials like copper, bronze, and iron.<\/p>\n\n\n\nUnique Jewellery<\/strong>: Jewellery lovers will find unique pieces featuring unusual decorative elements created by expert goldsmiths and silversmiths. The products include various materials, from pebbles to synthetic resin objects.<\/p>\n\n\n\nOrganic Soaps and Oils<\/strong>: One can find soaps and oils that are organically grown and carefully selected for their fragrant ingredients. Ideal for those who appreciate natural, health-conscious gifts.<\/p>\n\n\n\nBeekeeping Products<\/strong>: In line with the theme of natural wellness, a beekeeping stall provides various products derived from bees. This includes healthy, organic items like beeswax, ideal for making warming candles.<\/p>\n\n\n\nChildren’s Items<\/strong>: Various playful items exist for the youngest market-goers or those young at heart. These range from puzzles and riddles to special teddy bears made from Alpaca. Each item is designed to amaze, making them perfect gifts for kids or those who are kids at heart.<\/p>\n\n\n\nThings to Do in Winter<\/h3>\n\n\n\n To stay updated on the latest events and explore more things to do in the city this winter, take advantage of the wealth of resources available at Visit Berlin<\/a>, the capital’s official website.<\/p>\n\n\n\nSustainability Tips<\/h3>\n\n\n\n Before you visit Berlin at Christmas, it’s important to consider how we can visit responsibly and sustainably. Here are a few strategies to keep in mind:<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Eco-friendly Accommodation:<\/strong> Gendarmenmarkt is surrounded by numerous hotels, many of which are committed to green initiatives. When choosing where to stay, consider hotels powered by renewable energy sources, incorporate waste reduction measures, and use environmentally friendly products. You’re contributing to a more sustainable tourism industry by supporting such places.<\/p>\n\n\n\nConscious Consumption at Christmas Markets:<\/strong> While indulging at the Christmas market is tempting, remember only to buy food you’re sure to eat. Food waste contributes significantly to greenhouse gas emissions, so ordering mindfully goes a long way.<\/p>\n\n\n\nSustainable Shopping:<\/strong> The Christmas stalls at Gendarmenmarkt are brimming with all sorts of gifts and trinkets. Consider purchasing items that you truly need or will use to avoid wasteful consumption. Opt for locally made products that support local artisans and have a lower carbon footprint due to reduced transportation.<\/p>\n\n\n\nPlant-based Options:<\/strong> If you’re seeking a more sustainable diet, look out for plant-based offerings at the market. Consuming less meat and dairy is a powerful way to reduce your environmental impact. And don’t worry, the Christmas market at Gendarmenmarkt has various plant-based options.<\/p>\n\n\n\nPublic Transport:<\/strong> Bebelplatz Christmas Market is conveniently located within easy reach of several public transport options, making it unnecessary to rent a car. Choosing public transport reduces your carbon footprint and allows you to experience the city like a local. And if you’re staying nearby, consider walking to the market to minimise your emissions further.<\/p>\n\n\n\nIf you want to leave a review of Gendarmenmarkt Xmas Market or the new Bebelplatz Christmas Market, comment below.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
\u2014<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Recommendations are independently chosen based on personal travel experiences and extensive research. This post contains affiliate links to hotels and tours in Berlin, Germany. This means I get a small commission from any bookings at no extra cost to you.<\/em><\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"Berlin in winter, is a hub of activity and culture, and Gendarmenmarkt sits at its heart as one of the city’s most visited squares. Famous for its architectural landmarks like the Konzerthaus and the French and German Cathedrals, the square hosts an annual Gendarmenmarkt Christmas Market that attracts locals and tourists. In this article, you’ll…<\/p>\n
Read More<\/a><\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":2,"featured_media":13640,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_genesis_hide_title":false,"_genesis_hide_breadcrumbs":false,"_genesis_hide_singular_image":false,"_genesis_hide_footer_widgets":false,"_genesis_custom_body_class":"","_genesis_custom_post_class":"","_genesis_layout":"","footnotes":""},"categories":[12],"tags":[],"yoast_head":"\nGendarmenmarkt Christmas Market 2024 at Bebelplatz<\/title>\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n\t \n\t \n\t \n \n \n \n \n \n\t \n\t \n\t \n