The ultimate Christmas market tour by bike

Biking lets you explore more markets faster. You glide through decorated streets, stop for treats whenever you want-wherever you want, and never depend on trams or buses.
That's why we've rounded up the best markets in both cities, all super easy to reach with your Swapfiets.

Top 5 Christmas markets in Berlin you can easily bike to

• Weihnachtsmarkt Schloss Charlottenburg: A royal winter scene with sparkling lights, gourmet stalls, and big photo moments. It is an easy ride, and you can park right by the palace.

• Historischer Weihnachtsmarkt Friedrichshain: Set in the RAW-Gelände, this market feels like stepping into a medieval fair. Cycling here is simple thanks to the wide lanes leading straight to the area.

• Heissa Holzmarkt: For bonfires, live music, and riverside glühwein, this spot captures Berlin’s creative energy. Following the Spree by bike gets you there faster than any public transport.

• Winterquartier Berlin: Kreuzberg independent designers and small brands make this market ideal for unique gifts. Riding is often quicker than public transport, especially on busy weekends.

• Weddingmarkt – Weihnachtsausgabe: A local favourite focused on handmade and eco-conscious items. Harder to reach by U-Bahn, but far more accessible by bike.

Top 5 Christmas markets to explore by bike in Hamburg

• Santa Pauli: St. Pauli’s bold, playful take on Christmas. You avoid parking stress entirely when you arrive by bike.

• Wintergarten St. Pauli: An après-ski style winter village with warm drinks and glowing lights. Riding along the Elbe makes it an easy and scenic trip.

• Weihnachtsmarkt Barmbek: Relaxed, family-friendly, and full of classic stalls. Cycling lets you reach it from anywhere in the city at your own pace.

• Weihnachtsmarkt Osterstraße: Neighbourhood charm, handmade gifts, and cosy lighting. Side streets make it one of the nicest areas to bike through in winter.

• Marché de Noël: A touch of Paris in Hamburg, complete with wine, cheese, and pastries. Usually very busy, but arriving by bike keeps the journey smooth.

  
  Winter cycling made easy

  Winter biking is simple when you have the right gear. Subscribing to Swapfiets gets you the following benefits:
  
  

• A reliable bike with powerful LED lights that turn on as you ride.

• 2 strong locks included at no extra cost.

• Signature blue tire - anti-slip, anti-puncture.

• Unlimited, free service and repairs.

• All subscriptions include basic theft coverage. If something happens to your bike, we'll get it replaced right away.

• You can cancel anytime, upgrade or downgrade bikes.
  
  

  For more details, visit our Berlin and Hamburg city pages.

  
  Stay visible and wear reflective clothing. Take it slow on cobblestones, and if the glühwein hits, walk your way home. You can find more tips on biking in winter in this blog.