Berlin itself is not the only city with numerous beautiful and unusual Christmas markets – you can also reach idyllic places with special Christmas traditions in the immediate vicinity by train. It can quickly get crowded and stressful in the city during Advent, especially with this year’s selection, where Stranger Things themed markets and all-you-can-eat Christmas concepts are just the beginning. Those looking to escape the hustle and bustle and enjoy a little festive peace and quiet during this time will find wonderful alternatives in Berlin’s surrounding areas. Just an hour away from the capital is the Spreewald, from where you can take an atmospheric boat trip to Lübbenau – straight to the historic Christmas market.
The Spreewaldweihnacht in Lübbenau may have only just finished its first market last weekend, but the next winter highlight is already just around the corner. On December 6 and 7, you can once again be captivated by the magical atmosphere of this place. Once you arrive in the Spreewald, it’s time to get on the boat – or start by snacking on Spreewald gherkins. However you start your tour, even the beginning is a real experience. At the Great Spreewald Harbour, the oldest departure point in the entire Spreewald, a real captain welcomes you to the maritime Christmas market. Here you can stroll along lovingly decorated stalls, try smoked fish, Christmas plums or warm up with a really stiff grog. Wrapped up in warm woollen blankets, you can then set off on a boat trip to the Lehde Open-Air Museum. The trips start at 10:30 in the morning, the last boat departs at 15:00 – and from the museum it’s back to the Great Harbour at 17:00.
Suddenly you’re standing in the middle of a 19th century village – a place that will make you feel completely out of time for a few hours. The historic farms of the Lehde Open-Air Museum tell stories, traditions and customs about the Christmas season in Lusatia. Regional delicacies await you at the market stalls and, while strolling through the craft market, you will even come across the “Bescherkind”, who promises luck and blessings for the New Year. There are also various workshops – from making poinsettias to traditional crafts such as blacksmithing and woodworking.
An all-round atmospheric experience with your favorite companion, perfect for getting into the festive spirit. You then return to the Great Spreewald Harbor by barge. Admission to the open-air museum costs €7.50 for adults. You will need a separate ticket for the boat trip – they are already sold out online, but with a bit of luck you can still get one on site. Alternatively, you can walk from Lübbenau to Lehde, which takes around 25 minutes.