If you’re seeking an exciting getaway in the lead-up to Christmas, one European city offers everything from lively festivals to autumnal foliage and bustling markets.
Berlin, Germany’s capital and largest city is often overshadowed by the enchanting festivities of Vienna, Prague, Krakow and others during this season. But the German metropolis is brimming with an allure that becomes even more enticing as the leaves begin to fall.
Known as ‘the heart of Europe’, Berlin presents a unique fusion of rich history, vibrant culture and a dynamic art scene, all set against a backdrop of stunning architecture and diverse neighbourhoods. From lively festivals to the tranquil charm of autumn leaves, there are numerous reasons why Berlin should be on your travel wishlist this season this autumn.
One of the highlights of autumn in Berlin is the Festival of Lights, a spectacular event that metamorphoses the city into a radiant art gallery. Each year, renowned landmarks and buildings are lit up with colourful projections and light sculptures, transforming the streets into a captivating spectacle.
The city also boasts The Berlin Icebar – a unique experience in the city centre. Hailed as one of the ‘coolest’ things to do in the city, visitors join the crew of the Hansa, a 19th-century exploration ship, on an adventure to explore the North Pole region, reports the Mirror.
As the season changes, the city’s parks, avenues, and woodlands burst into life with the warm hues of autumn. The autumn foliage in Berlin is breathtaking, with golden, red, and orange leaves creating a beautiful atmosphere throughout the city.
You can wander through Tiergarten or Volkspark Friedrichshain to enjoy the fall colours, collect chestnuts, or simply soak in the serene beauty.
It’s a fun and festive way to experience Berlin’s seasonal charm. For food enthusiasts, autumn is the perfect time to indulge in Berlin’s seasonal cuisine.
Local markets and restaurants offer hearty dishes like pumpkin soup, roasted chestnuts, and wild game. Whether you’re a fan of street food or fine dining, there’s plenty to explore in Berlin’s food scene.
Autumn in Berlin also heralds the Schöneberg Pumpkin Festival which celebrates all things pumpkin, with pumpkin-based dishes, carving competitions and local crafts.
As Christmas comes calling, visitors from all over the world descend on what are arguably some of the very best Christmas markets in the world.
From November through to January, the main Christmas market is held in the Gendarmenmarkt (Bebelplatz), renowned for its stunning decorations, food and entertainment. Additionally, there’s the traditional market and funfair at Alexanderplatz and the globally recognised Spandau Market, boasting market stalls and a Renaissance fair.
If it all starts to feel a bit too European, Berlin also hosts a ‘British’ market at St George’s Episcopal Church, where visitors can enjoy familiar comforts like mince pies and bagpipes. Berlin’s museums and attractions remain open throughout the year, but autumn offers a particularly enjoyable time to explore them.
With the absence of summer crowds, the ‘ber’ months are the perfect time to visit places such as Museum Island, the Berlin Wall Memorial, or the Pergamon Museum, all while savouring the crisp autumn air.
Berlin is easily accessible from the UK, with a flight time of just under two hours. The best areas to stay during the festive season are the southern part of the Mitte district and the regions around Alexanderplatz or Mitte.