← Back to Weather Overview Deutsche Version

The Winter World at Potsdamer Platz: Alpine Flair and Tobogganing Fun in the Heart of Berlin

An illuminated toboggan run at night, part of the Winter World at Potsdamer Platz.

Long before most of Berlin's Christmas markets open their gates, Potsdamer Platz transforms into an Alpine winter wonderland as early as the beginning of November. The "Winterwelt" (Winter World) is unique in Berlin because it is less a classic Christmas market and more an urban winter sports park. With Europe's largest mobile toboggan run, a curling rink, and a huge Austrian "Schmankerl-Hütt'n" (delicacy hut), it brings the feeling of a ski holiday right into the heart of the capital. It is the perfect place for anyone who wants to experience winter actively and not just drink mulled wine.

Surrounded by the modern architecture of Potsdamer Platz and the lights of the Sony Center, the Winter World offers a fascinating contrast between urban coolness and traditional Alpine charm. The scent of Kaiserschmarrn (shredded pancake) mixes with the sound of laughing people sliding down the toboggan run on rubber tubes. This market is an experience for the whole family and a popular meeting point for after-work events.

Atmosphere & Ambiance: Sporty, Sociable, and Alpine

The mood at the Winter World is relaxed, sporty, and sociable. The focus is clearly on participation. Instead of contemplative silence, there is cheerful activity. Families with children, groups of friends competing in curling, and couples tobogganing together—the atmosphere is active and lively. The large, two-story "Salzburger Schmankerl-Hütt'n" in the center exudes an authentic après-ski flair and is often filled to the last seat. In the evening, DJs in the hut create a party atmosphere, while outside, the lights of the toboggan run and the city form a magical backdrop.

Highlights & Attractions: Winter Sports for Everyone

The Winter World is distinguished by its sports activities, which are otherwise only found in the mountains.

The Toboggan Run: The absolute highlight. A 12-meter-high and 70-meter-long ramp, covered with real snow (at appropriate temperatures) or mats, which you slide down on large rubber tubes. Great fun for all ages.
Curling (Eisstockschießen): On several rinks, you can try your hand at this traditional Alpine sport. It is ideal for groups and a great team-building activity. Advance reservation is often recommended.
Ice Skating: Next to the toboggan run, there is also an ice rink for skating, which is particularly popular with families and beginners.

Culinary Delights: A Trip to Austria

The culinary offer is heavily influenced by Austrian cuisine and offers a welcome change from the classic bratwurst.

Salzburger Schmankerl-Hütt'n: Here you can get authentic Alpine specialties like Germknödel (yeast dumpling), Kaiserschmarrn, Käsespätzle (cheese noodles), and Brettljause (snack platter).
Outside: At the surrounding stalls, you will of course also find the classics like mulled wine, hot chocolate, and roasted almonds, but often also Austrian variants like Jagatee.

Practical Tips for Your Visit

            Weather Tip: The Winter World is very open and exposed to the elements. On windy days, it can get bitterly cold here. Wear warm, functional clothing. In wet or slushy conditions, waterproof shoes are essential. The toboggan run and ice rink are open in almost any weather, except in cases of extreme storms or black ice.
        

Best Time to Visit: Since the Winter World opens as early as the beginning of November, you can enjoy the first mulled wine of the season here long before the big Christmas market rush begins. It gets very crowded on weekends. For curling or tobogganing without long waits, a visit on a weekday afternoon is ideal.
Getting There: Potsdamer Platz is excellently connected to the public transport network (S-Bahn, U-Bahn, regional trains). Arriving by car is not recommended due to the central location and expensive parking garages.
Costs: Note that the use of the attractions (toboggan run, curling) is subject to a fee. Admission to the market area itself is free.

Conclusion

The Winter World at Potsdamer Platz is the perfect choice for anyone who wants to experience winter in an active and sociable way. It is a successful mix of sport, party, and Alpine coziness in the middle of the big city. Those looking for traditional craftsmanship and a contemplative atmosphere will find less of it here. But for those who want to have a round of curling with friends, slide down the toboggan run with their children, and then enjoy a Germknödel with après-ski music, the Winter World is an absolute must in Berlin's pre-Christmas season.