From Brandenburg Gate to the Berlin Wall, here are 12 things to see in Berlin, that belong at the top of your itinerary! Don’t miss these historically significant, UNESCO World Heritage-listed, beautiful, fascinating and
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Table of contents
- Best time to visit Berlin
- Getting to Berlin
- Getting around Berlin
- Where to stay in Berlin
- Berlin – A Brief History
- Berlin WelcomeCard
- Top things to see in Berlin
- 1. Berlin Wall and East Side Gallery
- 2. Unter Den Linden
- 3. Checkpoint Charlie
- 4. Brandenburg Gate
- 5. Memorial to the Murdered Jews of Europe
- 6. TV Tower (Berliner Fernsehturm)
- 7. Museum Island (Museumsinsel)
- 8. Gendarmenmarkt
- 9. Reichstag Dome
- 10. Hacke’s Market (Hackescher Markt)
- 11. Tiergarten
- 12. River Spree
- 1, 2 and 3-Day Berlin Itineraries
Best time to visit Berlin
Berlin is a vibrant city that can be enjoyed year-round, but there are certain times of the year that are particularly ideal for visiting. The best time to visit Berlin is during the summer months, from May to September. During this time, the weather is mild and pleasant, with temperatures ranging from 15- 25°C (59-77°F). The city comes alive with outdoor festivals, concerts, and events, and the parks and gardens are in full bloom.
Keep in mind that July through September are peak tourist season. Be prepared for more crowds and higher accommodation prices at this time. Alternatively, the shoulder seasons in April and October are cooler, less crowded and prices are a little lower.
![Baroque-influenced Italian High Renaissance style cathedral with fountain in foreground](http://duendebymadamzozo.com/dbmzz-content/uploads/2023/10/DEU_BE_Berlin_Berliner-Dom-3.jpg)
![Woman with backpack walking through grand colonade](http://duendebymadamzozo.com/dbmzz-content/uploads/2023/10/DEU_BE_Berlin_Museumsinsel-2.jpg)
![Photo looking up at Berlin tv tower - Fernsehturm against blue sky](http://duendebymadamzozo.com/dbmzz-content/uploads/2023/10/DEU_BE_Berlin_Fernsehturm-2.jpg)
Getting to Berlin
Whether you’re coming from elsewhere in Europe or further afield, there are several flight and rail options available for getting to Berlin.
Berlin has one major airport, Berlin Brandenburg Airport (BER), which is well-served by a wide range of airlines. There are direct, non-stop flights from Beijing, Singapore, Washington DC, New York City, Miami, London, Edinburgh, Dublin and many more within Europe.
Those travelling from within Europe, will also find rail is an efficient and cost-effective way to reach the German capital. Berlin is well-connected to major European cities. The city has several train stations, including Berlin Hauptbahnhof (Berlin’s main train station), which is the busiest train station in Europe by through volume. From here, you can take high-speed trains to and from cities like Hamburg, Munich, and Frankfurt, as well as international destinations such as Prague and Warsaw. See the Deutsche Bahn website for intercity rail travel and tickets.
Getting around Berlin
Berlin is a city that is easy to navigate, thanks to its efficient transportation system. Here are some tips for getting around Berlin efficiently:
Public Transportation: Berlin has an extensive public transportation network, including buses, trams, and trains. The BVG (Berliner Verkehrsbetriebe) operates these services, and you can use a single ticket for all modes of transport. The U-Bahn (subway) and S-Bahn (urban rail) are particularly convenient for getting around the city quickly.
Cycling: Berlin is a bike-friendly city, with numerous cycling paths and bike-sharing services available. Renting a bike is a great way to explore the city at your own pace and see the sights up close.
Walking: Berlin is a relatively flat city, making it ideal for walking. Many of the main attractions are within walking distance of each other, especially in the central areas like Mitte and Kreuzberg.
Taxis and Ride-Sharing: Taxis are readily available in Berlin. The industry is highly regulated so you can expect standardised fares. Ride-sharing services like Uber are less popular in Germany generally, but accessible in bigger cities like Berlin. These options can be more convenient for late-night travel or when you have heavy luggage.
![Contemporary white building viewed down river with stone bridge in foreground](http://duendebymadamzozo.com/dbmzz-content/uploads/2023/11/DEU_BE_Berlin_-5.jpg)
![Red brick clocktower with pedestrians in foreground](http://duendebymadamzozo.com/dbmzz-content/uploads/2023/11/DEU_BE_Berlin_Rotes-Rathaus.jpg)
![Photo of Berlin's unique pedestrian light figures](http://duendebymadamzozo.com/dbmzz-content/uploads/2023/11/DEU_BE_Berlin_Ampelmannchen.jpg)
Where to stay in Berlin
Berlin offers a wide range of accommodation options to suit every traveler’s needs. Whether you prefer luxury hotels, budget-friendly hostels, or cozy apartments, there are plenty of choices available. For a first-time visitor looking to check off the top things to see in Berlin, I recommend getting accommodated in Mitte. Located in the heart of the city, it offers easy access to major attractions like Brandenburg Gate, Museum Island, and Alexanderplatz.
Berlin – A Brief History
To truly appreciate the sights and attractions of Berlin, it’s important to understand a little of the city’s rich history. Berlin has undergone significant transformations throughout the centuries, shaping its culture and landmarks.
Traces of humans inhabiting the area around Berlin date back around 10,000-years. The city of Berlin was founded in the 14th-century by Albrecht I aka Albert the Bear! The guy who probably put the bear in Bear-lin. It began as the capital of the Margraviate of Brandenburg—a major principality of the Holy Roman Empire.
Berlin later evolved into the capital of Prussia, an era through which it prospered and was a centre for art and culture. This changed with Germany’s defeat in WWI. Berlin and broader Germany slid backward into financial struggles and political turmoil in the run up to WWII—we all know how that turned out!
One key period in Berlin’s history is the division of the city during the Cold War. After World War II, Berlin was divided into East and West Berlin, with the infamous Berlin Wall separating the two. This division lasted for nearly three decades and left a lasting impact on the city’s identity. Another significant event in Berlin’s history is the fall of the Berlin Wall in 1989, which marked the reunification of East and West Berlin.
This momentous occasion symbolized the end of the Cold War and brought about a new era of unity and progress for the city. Today, Berlin stands as a vibrant and cosmopolitan capital, blending its historical past with modern innovation. From iconic landmarks like the Brandenburg Gate and Checkpoint Charlie to world-class museums and cultural institutions, Berlin offers a fascinating journey through history.
Berlin WelcomeCard
This post is sponsored by Berlin WelcomeCard, a must-have for exploring Germany’s capital. We get pretty excited about the money we save with multi-attractions cards and the Berlin WelcomeCard is no exception. The WelcomeCard, has three levels to choose from, that cover a range of benefits, from discounts on attractions, to museum admissions and public transport. Learn more about the Berlin WelcomeCard here.
![Hand holding up Berlin WelcomeCards infront of Brandenburg Gate](http://duendebymadamzozo.com/dbmzz-content/uploads/2023/11/DEU_BE_Berlin_Brandenburg-Gate_WelcomeCard.jpg)
Top things to see in Berlin
Berlin, the capital city of Germany, is a treasure trove of historical and cultural attractions that you are almost definitely going to run out of time to see. So here are a few iconic landmarks, must-see museums and other Berlin attractions to put at the top of your itinerary.
1. Berlin Wall and East Side Gallery
No visit to Berlin would be complete without a visit to the Berlin Wall. The Berlin Wall is reminiscent of the Cold War and Germany’s divided past. There are two sections of the Wall to consider visiting: Topography of Terror and East Side Gallery.
Topography of Terror is a permanent exhibit located on the site of the Former SS & Gestapo HQ, and incorporating a length of the Berlin Wall. The site is free, and you can borrow an audio guide, lasting about 60-minutes, to take you through the indoor exhibit.
The East Side Gallery, is a section of the Wall that has been transformed into an open-air gallery, featuring colourful murals painted by artists from around the world. Look for murals such as the French artist Thierry Noir’s Hommage an die junge Generation (Tribute to the young generation). Noir was one of the first street artists to ever paint on the Berlin Wall in the early 1980s. See Dimitri Vrubel’s depiction of Honecker and Brezhnev’s 1979 fraternal kiss in Lord Help Me To Survive This Deadly Love. Also, Lance Keller’s translation of Pink Floyd’s The Wall album cover painted in the 1990s.
Tip: Right by East Side Gallery is the historic Oberbaum Brücke—you can’t miss it’s red brick towers! The bridge connects the neighborhoods of Friedrichshain and Kreuzberg. Take a walk across the bridge and enjoy the views of the city.
2. Unter Den Linden
Paris has the Champs-Élysées, Berlin has Unter Den Linden. The historic boulevard, stretching from the River Spree to Brandenburg Gate, is named for its Linden trees. Lined with beautiful buildings and monuments, it’s a great place for a leisurely stroll. Admire the imposing Neoclassical architecture and soak in the rich history of this iconic street. Along the way you can experience several notable sights including the German History Museum, State Opera House, the Book Burning Memorial, the Neue Wache war memorial and the Humboldt University of Berlin.
3. Checkpoint Charlie
While I wouldn’t discourage anyone from visiting Checkpoint Charlie at least once, it feels like a tourist trap more than the genuine historic site that it is. The original Checkpoint was dismantled with the wall and this is a recreation. It’s crowded with hustlers trying to engage people in dodgy card games. It’s unignorably framed by McDonald’s on one side and KFC on the other. Oh, and mind your wallet—this is a pickpocket’s paradise. My advice? Go early if you can, get in, get your photo and get out—there’s better places to see in Berlin.
![Exhibit infront of Berlin Wall remnant](http://duendebymadamzozo.com/dbmzz-content/uploads/2023/11/DEU_BE_Berlin_Topography-of-Terror-2.jpg)
![Woman standing infront of colourful mural of giant, cartoon heads on Berlin Wall](http://duendebymadamzozo.com/dbmzz-content/uploads/2023/11/DEU_BE_Berlin-Wall_Thierry-Noir-9.jpg)
4. Brandenburg Gate
Maybe the most recognisable landmark of Berlin is Brandenburg Gate. Constructed between 1788-1971, the design was inspired by Propylaea, the monumental gates at the Acropolis of Athens. The Quadriga, is the sculpture of the chariot pulled by four horses that crowns the Gate. The Quadriga was once taken by Napoleon’s army as a trophy of war after defeating Prussia, and it was stored in Paris for some time before being recaptured.
Brandenburg Gate is located on Parisian Square (Pariser Platz), which is free and easy to access. However, if you are taking photos note that it is crowded most times of day. The Gate looks particularly beautiful when it’s illuminated in the evenings.
5. Memorial to the Murdered Jews of Europe
This Holocaust Memorial is located a short walk from Brandenburg Gate. It consists of 2711 concrete stelae of varying heights across an undulating field, along with an underground exhibit. The Memorial was designed by New York architect, Peter Eisenman and opened in 2005. Its design is intended to evoke a feeling of disorientation and loss, like the Jews of Europe experienced during the Shoah. The concrete stelae represent oversized headstones and it is indeed, easy to lose your travel party once inside. Therefore, it’s wise to agree on a meeting place before entering, in case you become separated. Also, please behave with the respect this Memorial deserves and do not climb on the stelae.
6. TV Tower (Berliner Fernsehturm)
Constructed in the 1960s, in what was East Germany (GDR), Fernsehturm was both a broadcast tower and an intended symbol of Communist power. Today the Tower is a popular tourist attraction. Reaching far above the rest of Berlin, the observation deck offers endless views of the surrounds from a height of 203-m (666-ft). Visits are timed, so book in advance or be prepared to wait. A BerlinCard will help you skip the ticket queue but you will still need to wait for an available time slot.
![Red brick bridgne viewed between hanging branches of a willow tree](http://duendebymadamzozo.com/dbmzz-content/uploads/2023/11/DEU_BE_Berlin_Oberbaumbrucke.jpg)
![Brandenburg Gate lit at night](http://duendebymadamzozo.com/dbmzz-content/uploads/2023/10/DEU_BE_Berlin_Brandenburg-Gate-3.jpg)
![Conifer tree framing memorial of concrete stelae](http://duendebymadamzozo.com/dbmzz-content/uploads/2023/11/DEU_BE_Berlin_Memorial-to-the-Murdered-Jews-2.jpg)
7. Museum Island (Museumsinsel)
Museum Island is an island in the Spree River. The Island is home to several world-class museums, the monumental Berlin Cathedral (Berliner Dom) and reconstructed Berlin Palace aka Humboldt Forum. This UNESCO World Heritage Site encompasses five museums constructed between 1824 and 1930. The Island is home to remarkable architecture that houses some very impressive Museum collections!
Note, that the Pergamon Museum is closed for the foreseeable future for major renovations. Some exhibits will be viewable at Pergamonmusem. Das Panorama, and the James-Simon-Galerie remains open.
Tip: Don’t go on the first Sunday of the month. Publically-owned museums are free to enter on this day in Berlin. While that might sound enticing, the queues to enter are horrendous! This is unless you have no choice, of course, because Museums are closed on Monday.
8. Gendarmenmarkt
Gendarmenmarkt is one of Berlin’s most beautiful squares. Admire the stunning architecture of the 19th-century Berlin Concert House, framed by two 18th-century churches. As of our visit in October 2023, the square is undergoing renovations. However, look for the small viewing platform you can access by a short set of stairs, to look over the the construction fencing and get a feel for the square’s immense architecture.
9. Reichstag Dome
For a unique experience, visit the Reichstag building’s rooftop terrace and dome. From here, you can enjoy sweeping views of Berlin’s skyline. It’s a great way to see the city from a different perspective. An audio guide is provided to explain the architectural concept and function of the dome as well as you climb the spiral ramp to the top.
You will need to book a time online, in advance. If you haven’t booked prior to arriving in Berlin, you may still be able to secure a spot if you go straight to the Berlin Pavilion and register. The Pavilion is located on Scheidenmannstrasse, adjacent to the Reichstag on the northern edge of Tiergarten. Allow a couple of hours to accommodate security procedures and the full audio tour at the Reichstag.
![Exterior of glass dome on top of multistory building](http://duendebymadamzozo.com/dbmzz-content/uploads/2023/10/DEU_BE_Berlin_Reichstag-4.jpg)
![View of Berlin from the Reichstag rooftop](http://duendebymadamzozo.com/dbmzz-content/uploads/2023/10/DEU_BE_Berlin_Reichstag-5.jpg)
![Contemporary architecture along the Spree in former West Berlin](http://duendebymadamzozo.com/dbmzz-content/uploads/2023/11/DEU_BE_Berlin_Federal-Chancellery.jpg)
10. Hacke’s Market (Hackescher Markt)
We would have missed this had it not been the meeting place for our walking tour. We ended up going back…twice! This lively neighborhood is known for its trendy shops, cafes, and art galleries. Take a stroll through its various courtyards to discover unique boutiques, quiet corners and cool eateries. It’s the perfect place to soak up the atmosphere and get a taste of Berlin’s creative scene.
11. Tiergarten
Nature lovers will enjoy a visit to Tiergarten, Berlin’s largest park. Take a leisurely stroll or rent a bike and explore the park’s beautiful pathways and gardens. Don’t miss the Victory Column, which offers panoramic views of the city from its observation deck.
There are also two important memorials in Tiergarten. Both the Memorial to the Sinti and Roma and Memorial For Persecuted Homosexuals Under Nazism, can be found here.
12. River Spree
Almost all of the sights mentioned so far fall firmly within what was East Berlin. If you want to see some of what former West Berlin is like, consider a relaxing Spree River cruise. This allows you to see Berlin’s landmarks, including some interesting contemporary architecture, from the water. A typical Spree River cruise lasts 90-mins and is offered by several companies from the Spree Canal running the western side of Museumsinsel. I recommend booking one with an open upper deck (for fine weather days)—the extra height will help you enjoy the riverside sights.
![Boat on river with art market and historic building in background](http://duendebymadamzozo.com/dbmzz-content/uploads/2023/11/DEU_BE_Berlin_-10.jpg)
![Red brick building with green cafe umbrellas](http://duendebymadamzozo.com/dbmzz-content/uploads/2023/11/DEU_BE_Berlin_Hackesche-Market-2.jpg)
1, 2 and 3-Day Berlin Itineraries
If you’re wondering how long to spend in Berlin, to me, 3-days is a minimum and that’s just to see the city itself. There are more sights and attractions, such as Potsdam, close enough for a day trip if you have more time. Let’s look at how to spend your time wisely if you have 1, 2 or 3 days in Berlin. Each additional day builds on the one’s before it.
Day One in Berlin
You can cover a lot of the sights on this list in just a few hours with a well-structured walking tour. A walking tour is a great introduction to a new city and an opportunity to ask a local guide questions that may inform the rest of your time in Berlin. After lunch visit the Reichstag Roof Terrace and Dome.
Day Two in Berlin
If you have a second day in Berlin, travel out to East Side Gallery and Oberbaumbrücke in the morning. Have lunch in the Hacke’s Markt area and explore the courtyards of Hackesche Höfe. Spend the rest of the afternoon in the various museums and galleries of Museum Island.
Day Three in Berlin
For those fortunate enough to have a third day, take a Spree River cruise and explore Tiergarten if the weather is good. If not, there are a plethora of museums to continue exploring.
Alternatively, take a day trip out to see the palaces and parks of Potsdam. Allow an hour to travel in each direction.
With its eventful history, creative culture and diverse attractions, you won’t run out of things to see in Berlin. No matter which aspect of this city you’re into, you’ll find something enthralling and a reason to return.
Peace, love & green Ampelmännchen,
Madam ZoZo
![Images of Brandenburg Gate, Fernsehnturm, the Berlin Wall and Museumsinsel in Berlin with text overaly reading "Germany City Guide: Berlin"](http://duendebymadamzozo.com/dbmzz-content/uploads/2023/11/Things-to-see-in-Berlin-pin6.jpg)
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