Forged from the fire of some of Europe’s darkest and most divisive moments, the German capital has emerged as a beacon of cultural diversity and individuality. From the street art-splashed remains of the Berlin Wall to the bohemian bars and boutiques of Kreuzberg, modern-day Berlin is creative, free-spirited, and always ready to party. The best things to do in Berlin are as vast and varied as the city itself. Dig deeper into World War II and Cold War history, get your culture fix at Museum Island, then discover the city’s foodie hot spots.
To soak up the sunshine and enjoy outdoor explorations in Berlin, it’s best to visit the city from May through September. The summer season is packed full of things to do, including a Caribbean festival, Karneval der Kulturen, and the Berlin International Film Festival (also known as Berlinale), which showcases film screenings all over the city. If visiting in December, get ready for a festive extravaganza, as the city has been known to have more than 50 different Christmas markets.
To get around Berlin quickly and cheaply, the U-Bahn (underground subway) and S-Bahn (local railway) are your go-to options. For anywhere not served by either of these lines, there are also extensive tram and bus networks. Alternatively, you can rent a bike and explore Berlin’s bicycle paths, or discover the city on foot. Berlin also has ride-hailing services like Uber.
Burgermeister is a Berlin institution that many proclaim as the city's best burger joint. The restaurant chain began slinging burgers and buns from an old, heritage-protected public restroom facility converted into a fast food kitchen. Despite the unconventional location, the restaurant rapidly gained a cult following. There are now multiple locations, but you can visit the original one under the Schlesisches Tor U-Bahn station in the edgy Kreuzberg neighborhood.
Local Currency Euro (€) | Time Zone CET (UTC +1) | Country Code +49 | Language(s) German | Attractions 124 | Tours 800 | Reviews 47,622 |
Serena is one of the many expats who's spent time living in Berlin, where she biked everywhere and enjoyed endless nights out with friends—life was sweet in Kreuzberg.
get a BVG travel card or the Berlin Welcome Card, although Berlin is also perfect for bikes—rent one if you can.
includes brunch, flea market browsing, and a sunset beer along the canals. Too cold? An exhibition at Hamburger Bahnhof or a visit to one of the many art galleries in Mitte are the perfect indoor alternatives.
the Jewish Museum. With its innovative display, the unique architecture, and all the different exhibits, it offers a real space for reflection on the Jewish past and present.
Head to a lake (Wannsee is probably the most famous one), where locals like to relax and swim, clothed or otherwise.
try Teufelsberg for a hillside view plus American Cold War spy stories, or Klunkerkranich for a more chilled sunset view with drinks.
is going to Berlin to eat German food. Explore the different cuisines: Turkish, Japanese, Lebanese, Italian, French, Korean, African—pick one and enjoy the ride.
Berlin is a dynamic and creative city that’s famous for its street art, architecture, abandoned buildings, museums, nightlife, startup culture; and top landmarks such as the Brandenburg Gate and the Reichstag building. A city once divided—the Berlin Wall stood for 28 years from 1961–1989, until Berlin was reunified.
...MoreA minimum of four days in Berlin is recommended. This should give you enough time to check out top landmarks such as Brandenburg Gate and Berlin Cathedral; see the remnants of the Berlin Wall and cool street art at East Side Gallery; and explore hipster neighborhoods such as Kreuzberg and Prenzlauer Berg.
...MoreThe most visited place in Berlin is the Reichstag—the seat of the German government. The building dates back to the 19th century, and sits beside the River Spree. It’s possible to go inside and take an elevator ride up to the glass dome roof terrace, which offers 360-degree city views.
...MoreSpend a day at Museum Island; eat street food in Kreuzburg; and for great architecture, visit the Reichstag, Brandenburg Gate, and Berlin Cathedral. People-watch from cafes near Simon-Dach-Strasse in Friedrichstrasse; see the murals at East Side Gallery; take a walk in the Tiergarten; and go vintage shopping in Prenzlauer Berg.
...MoreBerlin’s creative and eclectic neighborhoods make it a cool place to visit. Eat great street food at Markhalle Neun in Kreuzburg, visit Friedrichshain for techno clubs and secret cinemas, and go to Neukölln for vegan cafes and independent stores. Also, check out the abandoned buildings—including old spy stations, and derelict amusement parks.
...MoreYes, just like other capital cities, Berlin has places where tourists flock and souvenir stands can be found—such as around Brandenburg Gate. However, there are plenty of neighborhoods to escape the typical tourist trail; head east to Prenzlauer Berg, which has lots of great bars near Kollwitzplatz.
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