Berlin is a city like no other – where history meets hipster vibes, and every street has a story to tell. Whether you’re into exploring quirky neighbourhoods, soaking up the culture, or learning all the history, Berlin’s got it all. Ready to discover the most awesome things to do in Berlin?
Discover the past…
Get to know the city and its history thoroughly; this will help you truly understand Berlin and make your trip more special. We suggest taking a guided tour (some free tours are available!) for a more comprehensive and insightful experience. But of course, you can also explore the attractions on your own if you prefer a more flexible schedule.
Here are some of the must-see sites you don’t want to miss:
Brandenburg Gate
Step into history at this iconic eighteenth-century monument. Snap some photos and imagine the countless events it has witnessed!
Holocaust Memorial
Take a moment to reflect at the Holocaust Memorial of Europe. Its powerful design and underground information centre will leave a lasting impression.
Berlin Wall Memorial (Gedenkstatte Berliner Mauer)
Visit the Berlin Wall Memorial to explore the city’s Cold War division. The memorial features a preserved section of the Berlin Wall and an outdoor exhibition detailing its history and impact on Berlin.
Reichstag building
In the evening, make your way to the Reichstag Building, the seat of the German Parliament. From the dome, you can also enjoy an incredible panoramic view of Berlin.
Top tip: remember to reserve your visit two to three weeks ahead of time so as not to get disappointed!
Explore the stories behind East Side Gallery’s paintings
The area around the East Side Gallery is vibrant, attracting both locals and tourists. The Spree River runs right next to the gallery, giving a calm and scenic touch to the colourful artwork. You can easily spend a few hours admiring each mural and reflecting on the historical significance of the site.
This 1.3-kilometre stretch of the Berlin Wall offers a unique blend of history, art, and emotion. The gallery is an open-air canvas, with over 100 murals painted by artists from all over the world, and each piece tells its own story.
Make room for a museum day!
Kick off your day at Museum Island, where you’ll find five amazing museums all on one charming island in the Spree River. It’s home to some of Berlin’s top museums, full of incredible art and cultural treasures.
Neues Museum
Famous for the iconic Bust of Nefertiti, a masterpiece of ancient Egyptian art. The Neues Museum is a great spot for anyone interested in ancient history and art.
Pergamon Museum
At the Pergamon Museum, you’ll find extraordinary ancient artefacts, including the Pergamon Altar and the Ishtar Gate.
Side note: Unfortunately, it will be closed from October 2023 for a few years due to restoration work. However, you’ll have plenty of other museums to explore during this time!
Jewish Museum
The Jewish Museum offers a profound and moving exploration of Jewish history and culture, featuring striking architecture and engaging exhibits.
German Historical Museum
The German Historical Museum provides a comprehensive overview of German history, from medieval times to the present day, with detailed and interactive exhibits.
Bode Museum
The Bode Museum is known for its collection of Byzantine art and sculptures, as well as one of the largest collections of coins and medals.
Climb the Dome at Berlin Cathedral (Berliner Dom)
The cathedral is located on the museum island beside the river. It’s richly adorned with stunning interiors that are truly a visual delight. Like many of Berlin’s landmarks, it was heavily damaged during World War II and underwent a lengthy restoration, reopening to the public in 1993.
Climbing the numerous stairs to the top rewards you with fantastic views. The cathedral is open daily until 5pm and has an affordable entry fee.
Kollwitzstraße & thrifting at the Mauerpark Flea Market
Kollwitzstraße is packed with cute boutiques and speciality stores selling everything from handmade clothing to artisanal chocolates. On Sundays, be sure to check out the Mauerpark Flea Market, where you can go thrifting for vintage clothes, cool antiques, and unique handmade crafts.
Need a break from the busy streets of Berlin?
If you’re feeling a bit worn out after exploring the city, there are some excellent parks and zoos where you can unwind and recharge. Here are some of the best green spaces and wildlife spots for you!
Tiergarten
Berlin’s largest and most central park, a peaceful escape in the city’s heart. Spanning over 200 hectares, it’s great for a stroll, a picnic, or just enjoying nature. With its lakes, lawns, and paths, it’s a perfect spot to unwind.
The park has various landmarks and attractions such as the Berlin Zoo, the Victory Column, and the Tiergarten Park Carillon – the largest carillon in Europe with 68 bells.
Volkspark Friedrichshain
Volkspark Friedrichshain is a local favourite for its laid-back atmosphere and beautiful scenery. With its ponds, gardens, and playful Märchenbrunnen (Fairy Tale Fountain), it’s a great spot for families and visitors of all ages.
Berlin zoo
If you’re a wildlife enthusiast, the Berlin Zoo is an excellent choice for a day out. As one of the oldest and most renowned zoos in Germany, it features a wide variety of animals, including majestic lions, playful pandas, and exotic birds and reptiles.
Botanischer Garten
The Botanischer Garten in Berlin is a great spot for plant lovers and anyone looking for a relaxing walk. It has a diverse range of plants from around the world, stunning themed gardens, and lush tropical greenhouses.
Searching for the perfect place to stay? Check out Situ’s range of serviced accommodation in Berlin. We’ve got everything from snug apartments to swanky aparthotels and lovely houses –whatever you need, we’ve got it!
FAQs
What is the best time of year to visit Berlin?
Berlin is great to visit year-round, but the most popular times are late spring (May to June) and early autumn (September to October). The weather is mild, and there are plenty of outdoor events and festivals. Winter is also lovely, especially for those who enjoy Christmas markets and a festive atmosphere.
Do I need to speak German to get around Berlin?
While learning a few basic German phrases is helpful, most people in Berlin speak English, especially in tourist areas. You’ll find signs, menus, and information available in English as well.
How many days should I spend in Berlin?
To see the main sights and get a feel for the city, three to four days is ideal. However, if you want to explore more neighbourhoods, museums, and parks, consider staying for a week.
What’s the best way to get around Berlin?
Berlin has an excellent public transport system, including buses, trams, U-Bahn (underground), and S-Bahn (suburban trains). A day pass or multi-day pass is a good option for unlimited travel within the city. Cycling is also popular, with many bike rental options available.
Are there any free attractions in Berlin?
Yes, many of Berlin’s attractions are free or have free days. For example, you can visit the Berlin Wall Memorial, Holocaust Memorial, and the East Side Gallery without paying a fee. Some museums also offer free entry on certain days of the month.