Berlin is hands down one of the coolest cities in Europe, and honestly, it’s my top pick! So, I thought I’d throw together a list of 20 awesome things to do in Berlin for this post.
Some people come for the history scene and artsy vibes, hitting up iconic spots like the Brandenburg Gate, the Pergamon Museum, or the beautiful Charlottenburg Palace.
But then you’ve got others who are all about the food, crazy nightlife, or just vibing with the awesome street art all over the place.
Not sure what else to add to your Berlin list? Don’t worry, I’ve got your back! Ready for an epic Berlin adventure? Let’s dive in!
1. Check Out the Brandenburg Gate: One of the Best Things to Do in Berlin, Germany
You can’t talk Berlin without mentioning the Brandenburg Gate—it’s basically the city’s symbol and sits pretty on Pariser Platz in the Mitte district.
For most travelers, hitting up this iconic spot is a no-brainer on the Berlin bucket list.
Standing 85 feet tall and stretching 215 feet wide, it’s seen some serious history, including Napoleon’s grand procession.
Built back in the 18th century, the gate rocks that Early Classicist style.
Fun fact: Berlin used to have 18 gates like this, but the Brandenburg Gate is the last one standing and still impresses everyone who sees it.
Helpful Tips
- The Brandenburg Gate is a must–see in Berlin, and the best part? It’s totally free!
- To skip the crowds, try getting there early in the morning when it’s way quieter.
2. Catch Epic Views of Berlin from the TV Tower
The Berlin TV Tower, also called the Fernsehturm, is this super tall building that the German Post Office threw up back in ’69. It’s seriously one of the coolest places to check out in the city.
Soaring up to a whopping 1,207 feet, it’s the tallest thing in Germany. If you’re up for it, the views from the top are epic, especially when the sun dips and the city gets all glowy.
Every year, over a million folks stop by to see the Berlin TV Tower, making it a major hotspot for tourists!
Oh, and there’s this revolving restaurant up there. Fair warning though—it can be a nightmare trying to get a table during peak times; it’s like a total madhouse!
Helpful Tips
- The ticket for the viewing platform starts at €28.50 for adults and €13.50 for kids over 3.
- From March to October, the tower’s open daily from 9 AM to 11 PM. From November to February, it’s 10 AM to 11 PM.
- Book your tickets ahead of time. You can get more info here.
3. Explore the Reichstag Dome
The Reichstag Dome is one of the coolest things to do in Berlin. Seriously, you can’t just skip it. This awesome building in Tiergarten is where all the German Parliament action goes down.
Built way back in the 1800s, it’s got that Neo–Renaissance vibe that’s hard to miss.
But what makes it really pop is that epic glass dome on top—props to British architect Norman Foster for that genius design.
It stands tall at about 79 feet and is 131 fet wide! You have to check out the views from up there; the skyline of Berlin is straight–up breathtaking.
There’s this cool spiraling ramp you can stroll up to get to the lookout spot, and for real, it’s such a vibe.
Oh, and don’t forget to get a glimpse down at the folks in the Parliament chamber beneath you. It’s a wild perspective and totally spices up the whole visit!
Helpful Tips
- You can hit up the Reichstag Dome and the observation deck for free, but you need to make a reservation first.
- You can book your spot online, by post, or just swing by the Service Office near the Reichstag.
- The dome’s open every day from 8 AM to 10 PM, but make sure you’re there before 9:45 PM, ‘cause that’s the last entry!
4. Climb Up the Berlin Victory Column
The Victory Column, with its shiny Victoria statue on top, is another must-see in Berlin.
This iconic statue looks out over Tiergarten park, giving you some epic views you won’t find anywhere else in the city.
Climb the 285 steps, and you’ll get killer views not only of Tiergarten but also of Bellevue Palace, the German President’s crib.
It was originally built to celebrate Germany’s victories back in the 1800s, and it used to stand right across from the Reichstag.
These days, though, it’s mostly known for techno music and the Love Parade festival.
Helpful Tips
- From April to October, the Victory Column is open every day from 9:30 AM to 6:30 PM on weekdays and until 7:00 PM on weekends.
- From November to March, it’s open daily from 9:30 AM to 5:30 PM.
- If you want to check out the viewing platform, it costs €4 for adults and €3 for reduced tickets.
5. Explore the East Side Gallery Murals
If there’s one thing you have to see in Berlin, it’s the East Side Gallery.
This legendary spot stretches along Mühlenstraße and showcases vibrant murals covering the longest piece of the Berlin Wall still standing.
There are 105 unique paintings along the eastern side by the Spree River, blending history with some seriously cool art.
After the wall came down in 1989, artists from all over, like Jim Avignon, Thierry Noir, and Ingeborg Blumenthal, left their mark.
Don’t miss the iconic “Fraternal Kiss” mural by Dmitry Vrubel, or the cool wall jumper by Gabriel Heimler and the “Berlyn” inscription by Gerhard Lahr—they’re the highlights!
Helpful Tips
- The East Side Gallery is a free spot in Berlin, and it’s best to hit it up early in the morning to avoid the crowds.
- For more info, check it out right here!
6. Get Lost in History at the Pergamon Museum
Berlin’s got some great museums, and if you’re into art and culture, you have to hit up at least one of them.
So, here’s the scoop – the Pergamon Museum is a total must-check-out. It’s on Museum Island, which is a UNESCO World Heritage site, so you know it’s legit.
Opened back in the early 1900s, this place is stacked with three awesome collections: the Ancient Art, the Middle East Museum, and the Museum of Islamic Art. Each one’s got its own unique twist on history.
Don’t miss the Great Altar of Zeus, the Ishtar Gate, and the stunning Mshatta Palace facade – they’re all straight fire.
If you’re into ancient history and amazing art, you have to add this place to your Berlin bucket list!
Helpful Tips
- The Pergamonmuseum is closed right now because they’re doing some construction. But don’t worry, Das Panorama is still open!
- It’s open Tuesday to Sunday, from 10 AM to 6 PM.
- A regular ticket’s €14, and if you’re lucky enough for a discount, it’s only €7.
- For more info, hit up their website!
7. Feast on Epic Eats from Around the World
One of the best parts of any Berlin bucket list is the insane variety of food. The city’s mix of cultures means you get flavors from all over, with a big shoutout to Turkish and Arabic food scenes.
Kick things off with some classic street food like a döner kebab, or go big and hit up a Michelin–starred spot—Berlin’s food game is next level!
Craving traditional German, legit Greek, or some bomb Vietnamese? Berlin’s got it all.
And if you’re veggie or vegan, you’re golden! Berlin’s got a ton of options that’ll totally surprise you and make your food journey even better.
Helpful Tips
If you’re on the hunt for awesome eats in Berlin, here’s where to go:
- The Hummusapiens – Next-level hummus
- Umami – Tasty Asian bites
- Gude Falafel – Some of the best falafel in the city
- Long March Canteen – Flavors that’ll blow your mind
- Bro Burger – For that burger craving
- 1990 Vegan Living – Delicious vegan dishes
- Brammibal’s Donuts – Donuts that’ll make you melt
- MALOA Poke Bowl – Fresh and so good!
8. Catch a Coffee Break at Hackesche Höfe
If you’re in Berlin, you have to vibe at Hackesche Höfe. It’s this super cool courtyard hangout right by Hackescher Markt, and honestly, it’s one of those places that just gets you.
The Artsy Nouveau buildings are a total feast for the eyes, and the whole scene? Pure magic.
As you wander around, you’re gonna stumble upon a bunch of adorable little shops, cozy cafes where you can sip your coffee, and some great art spots.
It’s the perfect place to just relax and get away from the busy city life. On sunny days, you’ll see both tourists and locals just vibing and soaking up the atmosphere.
And make sure you don’t sleep on Dead Chicken Alley. It’s this iconic spot decked out in wild graffiti that really adds some character to the whole area.
Helpful Tips
- Both Hackesche Höfe and Dead Chicken Alley are free to visit!
- Just hit up Hackesche Höfe at Rosenthaler Straße 40 and then swing by Dead Chicken Alley at Rosenthaler Straße 39.
9. Sing Along at Olympiastadion’s Concerts
The Olympiastadion is a total gem you have to check out while you’re in Berlin. This legendary place kicked off the party way back in ‘36 and can fit a whopping 75,000 fans—like, wow, right?
You can totally go for a guided tour if you want dive into its cool history. But let’s be real, the best vibe is when you’re there for a live show.
Whether it’s an epic football game or your fave artist rocking out, experiencing it in this stadium is a memory for the books.
It’s hosted some insane concerts, too—like who can forget Madonna tearing it up back in 2008? Major names have hit the stage here, including The Rolling Stones, Tina Turner, U2, Pink, and Coldplay too.
If you get the chance to jump into the excitement, don’t sleep on it!
Helpful Tips
10. Hunt for Hidden Gems at the Flea Market
If you’re into the thrill of digging up cool stuff in city markets, Berlin is where it’s at!
This city is all about those flea markets that are just bursting with awesome finds. Picture this: spending your Saturday just cruising around, hunting for one-of-a-kind swag.
From funky vintage threads to quirky ceramics, and even those dusty old books that scream “I have stories to tell,” there’s a rad mix of goodies waiting for you.
And let’s not forget about the vinyl records that’ll make your playlist pop, plus some dope artwork to deck out your crib.
You can kick off your treasure hunt at the OG flea market on Straße des 17. Juni—this spot’s been rocking for over 45 years!
You have to hit up other cool spots too, like Marheinekeplatz, Rathaus Schöneberg, Boxhagener Platz, and the area around the Bode Museum. Happy hunting!
Helpful Tips
- Most flea markets in Berlin go down on weekends from 10 AM to 5 PM.
- For more info on specific markets, check this link.
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11. Pay Tribute to Holocaust Victims
Some places really make you pause and think, and the Memorial to the Murdered Jews of Europe in Berlin is one of them.
This heartfelt memorial honors the 6 million Jews who lost their lives during the Holocaust in World War II.
Right in the city center, this huge monument covers about 19,000 square meters (204,514 square feet).
It features 2,711 concrete columns set up in a grid, creating a maze-like experience that can leave you feeling a bit disoriented. This design is meant to encourage reflection and conversation.
Don’t forget to check out the Information Center too, where you can find an exhibition about Nazi crimes that dives deeper into this tragic part of history.
Helpful Tips
- The Information Center is open Tuesday to Sunday, from 10 AM to 6 PM, and it’s totally free to check out.
- For more info about the Holocaust Memorial, check it out here.
12. Step Into History at Charlottenburg Palace
If you’re hitting up Berlin, you have to check out Charlottenburg Palace—like, seriously, it’s iconic. The vibes here are off the charts!
This place is all about that jaw–dropping Baroque style. Even if history isn’t your thing, you can’t help but be wowed by the design.
Built way back in the late 1600s, it was the chill spot for the Hohenzollern family for around 150 years. It’s like stepping into a super cool time capsule!
The palace was named after Sophie Charlotte, a total queen, thanks to her husband, Frederick I of Prussia. You’ll totally catch those royal feels just walking around.
And guess what? Right next to it is one of the prettiest gardens you’ve ever seen. We’re talking French vibes with the New Pavilion, the Belvedere, and Queen Louise’s Mausoleum adding to the scene.
Wandering through the gardens is a vibe—you can soak in that magical energy and check out the palace inside too. Trust me, this place is a whole mood!
Helpful Tips
- Entry for Charlottenburg Palace, New Pavilion, Belvedere, and Mausoleum is €19 for adults, €14 for discounted tickets.
- In summer (April to October), it’s open Tuesday to Sunday, 10 AM to 5 PM.
- In winter (November to March), it’s open Tuesday to Sunday, 10 AM to 4:30 PM.
- Plan for around 2-3 hours to explore. Grab your tickets here!
13. Unleash Your Night Owl in Berlin
Berlin isn’t just about tasty food and awesome sights; it’s got a nightlife scene that’s straight-up legendary.
From theater shows and live jams to wild nights in some of the city’s coolest clubs and bars, the fun never stops after dark. It’s no wonder Berlin’s nightlife is ranked among the best in the world!
The vibe really kicked off in the ‘90s with all the international visitors bringing their own energy.
When you think of iconic nightclubs, places like Berghain, Watergate, Tresor, and Sisyphos pop up—especially if you’re into techno beats.
Berghain is all about those wild parties and is set in a former heating plant from the ‘80s. Getting in can be a mission, but hey, you never know—maybe luck is on your side!
Helpful Tips
- Check out what’s going down at Berghain here.
14. Take in the Awe-Inspiring Berlin Cathedral
Built in 1905, the Berlin Cathedral is the largest Protestant church in Germany and one of the most jaw-dropping spots in Berlin. If you’re into history, this place should totally be on your list!
You’ll find it on Museum Island, and the design’s a mix of Renaissance and Baroque styles—seriously, it’s gorgeous.
Here’s a cool tidbit: the basement holds the graves of about 90 members of the Hohenzollern b, so it’s a pretty big deal in European history.
Aside from church services, they host all sorts of events here—state ceremonies, concerts, and some sick light shows.
Helpful Tips
- The Berlin Cathedral is open from Monday to Saturday from 10 AM to 5 PM and on Sundays from 12 PM to 5 AM.
- The entrance is €10, but if you have the Berlin WelcomeCard, it’s just €7.
- You can book your tickets here.
15. Enjoy a Picnic in Tiergarten Park
Nothing beats chilling at a picnic in Berlin when the sun’s out and the vibe is right. The city’s got a ton of super chill hangout spots for outdoor vibes.
You can’t go wrong hitting up Tiergarten Park—so popular it’s basically the go-to place. Like, every other city has its iconic green spaces, right?
Berlin’s got its own slice of paradise with the Großer Tiergarten, aka the ultimate chill zone.
This park is huge—like 518 acres of nature just waiting to be explored. Those wooded areas? Perfect escape for folks looking to get away from the city hustle.
What used to be a royal hunting spot is now a place where anyone can kick back, unwind, and soak it all in. Seriously, a picnic here is the best way to escape the daily grind and just vibe with nature.
Helpful Tips
- Tiergarten Park is open 24/7, and the best part? It’s free!
- The park’s got cool spots like the House of World Cultures, Bellevue Castle, and the Victory Column.
- For more details, check it out here.
16. Get Up Close with Pandas at the Berlin Zoo
The Berlin Zoo is totally a must-visit if you’re in Europe, no lie! I mean, it’s just wild—literally.
With over 20,200 animals hanging out there, it’s like the ultimate animal party, and the largest variety you’ll find anywhere.
Opened back in 1844, this place is massive, spreading out over 86 acres.
You’ll see around 1,380 species, from crowd-pleasers like giant pandas and polar bears to some lesser-known gems like the okapi and northern kiwi.
Plus, the zoo is big on conservation. They support tons of programs to help save endangered species, so you’re not just having a good time, you’re supporting a great cause.
Helpful Tips
- The Berlin Zoological Garden welcomes visitors from February 27 to October 28 from 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM.
- From October 29 to February 26, the hours change to 9:00 AM to 4:30 PM.
- You’ll get the best deal on tickets online: a one-day ticket costs €16 for adults and €7.5 for kids.
- For more details, check it out here.
17. Get the Perfect Shot at Checkpoint Charlie
Checkpoint Charlie is sitting at the corner of Friedrichstraße and Zimmerstraße, and honestly, you can’t miss it if you’re cruising around Berlin.
This spot was once the go-to place for folks making daring escapes between East and West during the Cold War, which is pretty wild.
Fast forward to now, it’s a super iconic symbol from that era and one of the must–see attractions. You’ll see tons of tourists who are all about snagging that perfect pic.
Here’s something that might surprise you: most people don’t know they’re snapping pics with a replica of the original guardhouse—the real deal got moved to the Allied Museum after the Wall came down.
Checkpoint Charlie has been featured in a bunch of spy flicks and novels, like Tinker Tailor Soldier Spy and Bridge of Spies; it has that whole secret agent vibe going on.
And right next door is the Wall Museum, where you can dive into some insane stories about how people tried to escape the wall. It’s next-level history!
Helpful Tips
- It’s free to visit Checkpoint Charlie.
- The Wall Museum is €18.5 for adults, €12.5 for students, and €9.5 for kids 7+.
- The museum is open every day from 10 AM to 6 PM.
- You can grab your tickets here.
18. Be Amazed by Asisi’s Panorama
Love it or hate it, the Berlin Wall is a huge part of the city’s history. If you want vibe with Cold War–era Berlin, you have to check out Yadegar Asisi’s panorama.
The Berlin Wall Panorama really shows what life was like for West Berliners in the 1980s.
The artist nails it, showing the reality of living under the shadow of that massive wall that split the city in two.
What’s dope is how they mix in music and actual quotes from politicians on both sides. The lighting also sets the mood, making it feel real even after you leave.
Asisi’s panorama gives you the real deal on what life was like for Berliners on the west side of the wall.
Helpful Tips
- Asisi’s Panorama is open daily from 10 AM to 6 PM.
- Tickets for adults start at €14, and for kids, it’s €7.
- For more details, check it out here.
19. Dive Into History at the Topography of Terror
Okay, hear me out—visiting the Topography of Terror might not sound like a fun time, but it’s actually super eye-opening.
This place used to be the headquarters for the Gestapo and SS, the ones behind some of history’s darkest moments.
Even though most of the original buildings are gone, the atmosphere is still heavy with the weight of what happened here.
You’ll dive into the terrifying history of the Nazis and their horrific impact on Europe, especially what they did to Jews and Roma.
There’s an outdoor exhibit that digs into the politics of Berlin, plus an indoor one all about the horrors carried out by the SS. It’s intense, but definitely worth the visit if you want get real with Berlin’s past.
Get your free map featuring 100+ Berlin places – available now!
Helpful Tips
- Admission to the Topography of Terror is free!
- The museum is open every day from 10 AM to 8 PM.
- For more details, check here.
20. Cruise Through Berlin on the Spree
Cruising on the Spree River is a total must when you’re in Berlin! It’s such a chill way to see the city from a whole new angle.
Hop on a boat tour and peep the Berlin Cathedral, Reichstag, and the Oberbaum Bridge, plus other iconic spots.
As you float down, take in the stunning views of the Landwehrkanal and the river itself. Tours last anywhere from one to four hours, but trust me, it’ll be a highlight of your Berlin bucket list for sure.
Feeling a little more daring? Try canoeing—it’s a summer fave. No matter what, a cruise on the Spree is guaranteed to be a good time!
Helpful Tips
- Boat trips on the Spree start around €18, and canoe trips are about €29 per person.
- You can grab your tickets for a boat trip here, and for a kayak trip, they’re available here.
- Just a heads up, Spree tours run from spring to autumn, so double–check the schedule before you go!
Where to Stay in Berlin, Germany?
If you’re looking for a great place to stay in Berlin, you should definitely consider the Indigo Berlin – East Side Gallery hotel. I had the chance to stay here, and I can’t recommend it enough!
If you’re looking for a great place to stay in Berlin, check out the Indigo Berlin – East Side Gallery hotel. I stayed there, and it’s legit!
Located in the lively Friedrichshain–Kreuzberg area, this spot is super close to the East Side Gallery and some awesome cafes.
The hotel’s got chill vibes, awesome local food at the restaurant, and a rooftop bar where you can sip on drinks with views of the River Spree.
Having experienced the top–notch service and prime location, I can totally say the Indigo Berlin is a solid pick to kick off your Berlin trip. It’ll definitely make your stay unforgettable.
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20 Things to Do in Berlin, Germany: Conclusions
I hope this list of the best things to do in Berlin got you thinking about visiting this amazing city.
Berlin is perfect for a city break, with experiences you’ll remember forever. Definitely a must-add to your bucket list!
Let me know which activities caught your eye, I’m curious! Feel free to shoot me an email if you’ve got any cool Berlin tips or recommendations to share.
Would love to hear what you’ve got!
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