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Berlin in winter feels like a city wrapped in ribbon and fairy lights. Wide boulevards glow with festive garlands, traditional markets spill into historic squares, and the scent of roasted almonds and spiced Glühwein drifts through the air. Choirs sing carols against the backdrop of cathedrals, skaters glide across pop-up rinks, and shoppers wrap up warm as they explore stalls filled with handmade gifts. Add in the city’s rich history, vibrant arts scene, and legendary nightlife, and Berlin offers one of Europe’s most captivating Christmas escapes.
And when it’s time to relax after a day of festive exploring, three Marriott hotels promise the perfect base – each one offering its own unique style and seasonal charm.
5* The Ritz-Carlton, Berlin
At Potsdamer Platz, where Berlin once stood divided, The Ritz-Carlton now offers a sanctuary of elegance at the city’s beating heart. In December, the square comes alive with one of Berlin’s most popular Christmas markets, with twinkling lights, carousel rides, and food stalls serving everything from spiced sausages to chocolate-dipped fruit. Guests of The Ritz-Carlton are just steps away from this festive cheer, yet inside they’ll find a calm, luxurious retreat.
The lobby is transformed into a winter wonderland, crowned with a grand Christmas tree and sparkling decorations. Art Deco-inspired rooms blend glamour with comfort, offering a place to retreat after an evening stroll. Guests who book an upgraded room type or treat themselves to a Premium Room with Club Lounge access, can also enjoy a refined private space and sweeping views over Berlin’s skyline. Beyond the décor, dining is a highlight – from indulgent Afternoon Tea in the lobby to refined German cuisine that celebrates local seasonal ingredients. And for culture lovers, the Berlin Philharmonic, famed for its Christmas concerts, is just a short walk away.
5* Berlin Marriott Hotel
Just across Potsdamer Platz, the Berlin Marriott Hotel offers sleek Bauhaus design mixed with warm holiday atmosphere. The Christmas market here is practically on the doorstep, while iconic landmarks like the Brandenburg Gate, Reichstag, and Tiergarten are all within easy reach. Imagine skating across the open-air rink, warming up with mulled wine, and then retreating back inside to a lobby decked out with seasonal sparkle.
Rooms are spacious and modern, perfect for unwinding after a day in the winter chill, and Premium Rooms with Executive Lounge access add an exclusive touch, with drinks, snacks, and cosy corners to enjoy the city lights from above. Dining is another reason to linger – tuck into prime steaks at Midtown Grill, pair craft beer with gourmet hot dogs at The Big Dog, or sip signature cocktails at CHRONOBAR. With so many options under one roof, festive evenings feel effortless.
4* Courtyard by Marriott Berlin City Center
If there’s one market that captures the romance of Berlin at Christmas, it’s Gendarmenmarkt. Surrounded by stunning 18th-century architecture, it’s a place of music, light, and atmosphere. Choirs perform under the stars, craftspeople sell handmade ornaments, and the square glows with fairy lights. Staying at the Courtyard by Marriott Berlin City Center means guests are just steps away from this magical setting.
The hotel itself has recently been renovated, blending contemporary comfort with Berlin-inspired design. Start the day with a hearty breakfast or vegan-friendly dishes at K&B Berlin before wandering out to explore nearby Checkpoint Charlie, Museum Island, or the Nikolaiviertel with its charming cobbled streets. After a day of sightseeing, the K&B bar is the perfect spot to enjoy a festive cocktail or mulled wine. With a fitness centre to balance holiday indulgence, 24/7 Market shop for last-minute treats, and pet-friendly rooms, the Courtyard makes festive travel effortless for every kind of guest.
Beyond the Markets
While Christmas markets are at the heart of Berlin’s festive charm, the city offers so much more. Take a winter boat cruise along the River Spree as the city lights reflect on the water. Stroll along Unter den Linden, where grand trees and historic buildings are dressed in glowing garlands. Shop for luxury gifts on Kurfürstendamm or explore pop-up design markets for something unique. As the year comes to a close, Berlin also puts on one of Europe’s biggest New Year’s Eve celebrations, with fireworks exploding above the Brandenburg Gate.
Berlin, wrapped up for Christmas
From the refined glamour of The Ritz-Carlton to the stylish comforts of the Berlin Marriott and the central convenience of the Courtyard, Marriott’s Berlin hotels bring the festive season to life. Whether sipping mulled wine, gliding across ice, or simply admiring the twinkling lights, a Christmas stay in Berlin is one your clients will never forget.
