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Berlin travel blog — the fullest berlin travel guide blog for a great budget trip to berlin for the first-timers.

Berlin is Germany’s largest city and second largest city after London in the European Union, which has always been one of the top cities for tourism in Europe. Although it doesn’t have many romantic places like Paris in France, Venice of Italy but Berlin always makes me feel a lot of mysteries inside this city. Partly because Berlin is Germany’s major political and economic capital, where many political and cultural conflicts have occurred with the famous Berlin Wall, the remnants of the world war and the cold war lasting for decades. I have always wondered why filmmakers about detectives, spies often take the background in Berlin for their films such as The Bourne Identity, Unknown by Liam Nesson, … That’s is feeling cold and full of mysteries with the secrets deep in the heart of this city. So, what to do in Berlin? Let’s check out our Berlin travel blog (Berlin blog, Berlin trip blog) with the fullest Berlin travel guide blog (Berlin city guide blog) for a wonderful trip to the capital of Germany for the first-timers from how to get to Berlin, best places to visit, top things to do in Berlin to find out the answer!

• How to get around Berlin cheap? — 5 best way to get around Berlin & how to travel around Berlin
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Berlin travel guide blog: When is the best time to visit Berlin?

Like most other cities in Europe (Western Europe), the best time of year to visit Berlin is in late April or mid-September, when the weather is quite cool and pleasant, not peak tourist season in August, so you will avoid the sweltering heat and crowded scenery of tourists. However, you should pay attention to some events and festivals in Berlin to make planning for your upcoming trip.

• Karneval der Kulturen Festival: Held every year during the 4-day of Pfingsten (Pentecost) holiday in Kreuzberg district. A lot of art activities such as marches, lion dance, which vibrant and bustling on the streets.
• Berlinale (Berlin International Film Festival): Film festival held in February with many participating films, promotional activities, film screenings in the month, very bustling.
• May 1 Holiday: The festival is held on the weekend of May 1 ocasion with culinary and dance activities.
• There are also a number of other festivals such as the beer festival held in August, the Berlin music festival in September every year.

Berlin travel blog: Getting around Berlin

Fly to berlin.

Berlin has two main airports: Schoenefeld Airport (SXF) and Tegel Airport (TXL). You have plenty of options for getting from the airport to the city center, such as taking the Airport Express, S-bahn train, Shuttle bus or taxi.

Getting around the city

To get around the city you can buy the Berlin Welcome Card that can use to unlimited travel all kinds of vehicles in Berlin like Berlin S-Bahn, U-Bahn, buses, trams, ferries. In addition, this card is also quite discounted when you use to buy tickets to museums and attractions. If you stay only few days and only go to a certain number of places, you can buy zone tickets.

German Rail Pass

In Berlin there is a bus route that can take you around the city, which is the bus No. 100, the first bus since the unification of Germany to connect between East and West Berlin. This route starts from Alexanderplatz square through points such as Museum Island, Reichstag, Brandenburg Gate, Tiergarten, Victory Tower and the Kurfürstendamm shopping area to finally stop at the zoo. If traveling by train, there is also a city view tour, the S-Bahn route connecting Zoologischer Garten and Alexanderplatz station.

In addition, you can catch the Hop-on Hop-off bus, that take you to some main attractions of Berlin, including Brandenburg Gate and Checkpoint Charlie. Refer here: Berlin Red Buses Hop On Hop Off Sightseeing Bus.

Tickets for public transport or Pass, Travel card in Berlin can also be used to take the Ferry (boat, ferry), usually the ferries on the Wannsee lake with beautiful scenery on both sides. Take a S-Bahn train to Wannsee station and then take a ferry to Kradow, where there are quite a lot of walking streets with great beer shops and gardens. Ferries run every 1 hour and take about 20 minutes to get to Kradow.

Berlin Pass with 1-Day Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour

• Berlin Welcome Card with Optional Museum Island Pass

Read more: How to get around Berlin cheap? — 5 best way to get around Berlin & how to travel around Berlin .

Berlin blog: Where to stay in Berlin?

With a 3-day to 1-week trip in Berlin there are plenty of hotel options as well as hostel-style accommodation for backpackers. Hostel room rates anywhere in the city ranging from 15 to 30 EUR/night, which means the common ground still has cheap accommodation to stay. Some hotels and hostels are highly rated by tourists:

Family-friendly hotel: Mövenpick Hotel Berlin Am Potsdamer Platz ( Agoda.com or Booking.com ) . This hotel is located right near Anhalter Bahnhof station with modern design room, fully equipped. Available services such as restaurants and gyms.

Almodovar Hotel Berlin – Biohotel ( Agoda.com or Booking.com ) : Located on the lively street Simon-Dach Straße, with the main design of wood makes the friendly and different of this hotel.

Hostel Generator Berlin Mitte ( Agoda.com or Booking.com ) : A famous hostel type that backpackers love because of its comfort and feel like a family living area. This hostel is just 2 km from the historic square of Alexanderplatz, Hackesche Höfe and Berlin’s Brandenburg Gate.

Adina Apartment Hotel Berlin Hackescher Markt ( Agoda.com or Booking.com ) , a top rated 4-star hotel with room rates from $93.25/night.

Novotel Berlin Mitte , a top rated 4-star hotel with room rates from $97.49/night ( Agoda.com or Booking.com ).

Select Hotel Berlin The Wall , a top rated 4-star hotel with room rates from $59.35/night. ( Agoda.com or Booking.com ).

Hotel Palace Berlin , a top rated 5-star hotel with room rates from $126.94/night. ( Agoda.com or Booking.com ).

You can find more, check rates, availability & book for Berlin hotels on Agoda.com or Booking.com .

Berlin city guide: What to eat in Berlin?

Berlin is considered as the largest Turkish community outside of Turkey, so Doner Kebab or Pitta breads are the most popular street foods in this city, just like bread in Vietnam. Doner kebab here are also very cheap, you can easily buy one just about EUR 2 on the street. In addition, other cheap foods such as snacks, street foods you should go to M arkt Halle Neun Street , every Thursday night from 17:00 – 22:00 there is a bustling street food fair, with Famous dish is Currywurst Doner, a type of fried sausage with curry sauce served with french fries.

In addition to the Markt Halle Neun streetfood, you can go to Mauerpark flea market (Address: Bernauer Str. 63-64, 13355 Berlin, Germany) on Sunday, the largest flea market in Berlin, in addition to dining, there are large supermarket chains with many items such as of Netto, Lidl,..

Another dish worth a try is Vegan Pizzeria, an Italian Pizza in the heart of Germany, the restaurant serving this dish which very delicious is Sfizy Veg (Address: 95, Treptower Str., 12059 Berlin, Germany) . In addition to the delicious pizzas, the design is also very beautiful, with the white tone looks very stylish and clean.

Those who want to eat cheap but have beautiful views can not miss the student canteen areas, especially at the Skyline Cafeteria of the Technical University of Berlin on the 20th floor of the Telefunken-Hochhaus (Telefunken skyscraper). This place is open to everyone on every morning and around noon at 11.30am to 3pm, the food is cheap and also quite delicious.

The experience in Berlin is that eating street food is not cheap as you think, sometimes street food is more expensive than in cafes, especially in central districts like Mitte or Charlottenburg, and in Alexanderplatz, a little cheaper. So if you want to saving on eating and drinking, you should refer to the prices in many places before buying.

Berlin travel guide blog: Best places to visit and top things to do in Berlin

Before coming to Berlin, like Barcelona, ​​you should have a quick look at the history of this city, but the closer you learn, the better it will be because thanks to that, your trip will be good to understand and compare with what you already know, have read and are still wondering about it. Berlin is often less noticeable than other European cities such as Paris, Prague, Rome, .. where there are roads, alleys or bridges bearing the symbol of love and romance. Berlin is more thorny than that, the old architecture here still exist but very few because of the devastation of the war, this city is both developing and rebuilding, renovating buildings and ruins that destroyed in war.

Coming to Berlin is to learn the evidences of contemporary history, of world war, of Nazi, of the Soviet Red Army, of a country that was once divided by the legendary Berlin wall, but has is united without bloodshed, which is the sweet result of true altruism. There are many monuments in Berlin so you can learn about the history of the city in particular and of the world war in general. For those who want to find a romantic place like Paris, Hallstatt or Amsterdam will probably be disappointed, but Berlin is very suitable for nostalgic people, love history and explore. Of course, once you like it, you will always find the word “romantic” on every journey or even the small corners of the city where you come.

Berlin has to say is very large, divided into many different (districts) areas. You should plan to visit each area for a specific day, each day can spend a full time for a certain area. The main areas in Berlin can be listed as Mitte, Kreuzberg, Friedrichshain, Prenzlauer Berg or Charlottenburg-Wilmersdorf.

Mitte central district

Located in the heart of a large Berlin, Mitte is also one of the most visited places in this city. The cost of living, traveling or eating in the Mitte area is also among the most expensive in Berlin. Coming hre, you should visit the famous Gendarmen market and the symbol of Berlin is the Gate of Brandenburg, the Reistag building and Berlin’s busiest and most expensive and bustling shopping street – Friedrich Strasse.

Topography Of Terror

This can be considered a museum displaying the history development of the Nazi, where its prisons were built from 1933 to 1945. The buildings were destroyed after the war but there are still a lot of traces on the walls from and are worth a visit, especially this place is free admission.

Address: Niederkirchnerstraße 8, 10963 Berlin, Germany Hours: 10AM–8PM

Reichstag Building

It was built in 1894 but was bombed and abandoned, then it was rebuilt and is currently used as a German Parliament house (Bundestag). It’s free to enter but you will need to make a reservation online or at the counter. When you come to this building, there is an interesting place: the giant glass dome behind, if you climb up here, you will have a free audio guide and admire the panoramic view of Berlin, especially the Brandenburg Gate, the Berlin Cathedral Church and Mercedes Benz building.

Address: Platz der Republik 1, 11011 Berlin, Germany Hours: 8AM–12AM

Brandenburg Gate

Located right next to Reichstag, Brandenburg Gate is really a symbol of Berlin. Originally built in 1791 as a border between East and West Berlin, it is now a symbol of a united Germany.

Address: Pariser Platz, 10117 Berlin, Germany

Berlin Wall

This is definitely a must-go when traveling to Berlin. The wall was built in 1961 before it collapsed in 1989, marking a united Germany. 4m high wall in the middle of Berlin where the East – West were divided into two separate countries, German Democratic Republic (East Germany) and Federal Republic of Germany (West Germany). Although it was called the “Wall of Shame” by the West Germans, it was the protective wall against Nazi for East Germany. During the cold war, more than 5,000 people tried to cross this wall to go to West Berlin. At present, the memorials still have more than 1.5km of the original wall (160km long) for tourists to learn and explore, on the wall now are artistic drawings expressing the freedom spirit of people, youth.

The Memorial to the Murdered Jews of Europe

Also known as the Holocaust Memorial is built from 2,711 concrete columns to form a large labyrinth-like monument located at the foot of the Berlin wall.

Address: Cora-Berliner-Straße 1, 10117 Berlin, Germany Hours: 10AM–7PM / Monday: Closed

Potsdamer Platz

Located close to the Holocaust memorial, Potsdamer Platz is one of Berlin’s bustling neighborhoods with towering buildings, skyscrapers and modern architecture, most prominent is the Sony Center. I am get lost here but I thought I was standing in Singapore or Hong Kong in the heart of ancient Berlin!

Fernsehturm TV Tower (Berliner Fernsehturm)

Built in the 1960s, this is the highest construction in the city (368m). You can climb to the top of the tower for a panoramic view of Berlin, enjoy a drink or even a meal at this bar or restaurant. Admission is between €13-€20.

Address: Panoramastraße 1A, 10178 Berlin, Germany Hours: 9AM–12AM

Berliner Dom (Berlin Cathedral)

The short name for Berlin Cathedral, this church has an architectural style that blends Gothic, Renaissance and Neoclassical art. The intricate sculpture is shown on the inside walls of the church, you can climb the stairs to climb to the top of the dome and zoom out. Admission fee is €7.

Address: Am Lustgarten, 10178 Berlin, Germany

Neue Wache and Bebelplatz

These two places are located quite close together and you absolutely can visit at once. Neue Wache is a small memorial for war victims but has a strong meaning and message. Just across the street is the Bebelplatz where you can look down through a glass door just above the ground of a large library with empty bookshelves. This place is a tribute to Nazi students who were burned with more than 20,000 “un-German” books, not suitable for the new regime.

Museums in Mitte district

In addition to these famous landmarks, the central district of Mitte has many other historical museums. The Neues Museum (Address: Bodestraße 1-3, 10178 Berlin, Germany / Hours: 10AM–8PM) is famous for its bust statue of Nefertiti, the Hamburger Bahnhof Museum (Address: Invalidenstraße 50-51, 10557 Berlin, Germany / Hours: 10AM–8PM) was once a train station displaying the works of contemporary art by Andy Warhol, Cy Twombly, Robert Rauschenberg, Roy Lichtenstein, etc. There also are the German Historical Museum (Address: Unter den Linden 2, 10117 Berlin, Germany) , the DDR Museum (Address: Karl-Liebknecht-Str. 1, 10178 Berlin, Germany) which quite stores artifacts on the daily life of the East Berlin communists. These museums are located quite concentrated and on the edge of the Museum Island. You can come here to visit many museums at once and have just strolled relaxing on the river Spree surrounding the island.

West Side Berlin

The western part of the city including the Charlottenburg, Wilmersdorf district is a modern area of ​​the city. This area has a lot of restaurants, bars and busy shopping streets. Places to visit include:

KaDeWe Department Store

One of the largest shopping malls in Europe with lots of luxury stores. Those who are passionate about shopping can not miss this place, located right next to U Wittenbergplatz, and at the same time, many expensive restaurants and eateries are located on the 6th floor of the department store.

Address: Tauentzienstraße 21-24, 10789 Berlin, Germany

Tiergarten Park

An ecological area in the heart of Berlin with lots of trees, walkways and lakes with fresh air that is suitable for anyone who comes with family or in groups. At the end of the park there are often festivals, beer gardens and traditional food with many indigenous families as well as tourists participating.

Address: Str. des 17. Juni, 10785 Berlin, Germany

Charlottenburg Palace

The Charlottenburg Royal Palace was built in 1699 to serve Queen Sophie Charlotte, the wife of King Frederick III. The palace is very large with tree-lined streets, in the middle of the yard is a statue of King Friedrich Wilhelm I, the flower garden in front of the castle reminds me of Vienna’s summer palace.

Address: Spandauer Damm 10-22, 14059 Berlin, Germany Hours: 10AM–4:30PM; Monday: Closed

East Side Berlin

The eastern part of Berlin still retains the remnants of an old socialist regime, which is much cheaper of living cost than the central Mitte or the west. If you stay in the East area you can not miss the East Side Gallery (Address: Mühlenstraße 3-100, 10243 Berlin, Germany/Hours: Open 24 hours) , the path with the rest of the Berlin wall and 101 large paintings directly painted on the wall. Or Alexanderplatz, named after the Russian Tsar Alexander, although It’s located close to the center of Mitte, but on the right edge of East Berlin. The square is home to many important German historical events.

In addition to the above locations, there is another place that Vietnamese people often visit in Berlin is Dong Xuan Center, Dong Xuan Market in Berlin. There are many stalls selling Vietnamese goods, including traditional dishes that are difficult to find in Hanoi, but you can find in the market. Due to being acquainted with the civilized lifestyle of Germany, the market is also very organized, from sellers to buyers who are eager to serve enthusiastically thoughtful. Although it is Vietnamese market, there are quite a lot of Germans shopping here.

Kreuzberg District

This can be considered an area for young people, because it was once a place where immigrants, young people, hippy people or artists live. On the streets are graffiti drawings full of art, cafes and bars open throughout the night. Every Thursday from 17:00 to 22:00 at Markethalle 9 in this Kreuzberg area host open-air parties of the free, artistic people who like to make friends, that can be considered as a very fun party and everyone comes here with a very open and happy mood, different from the usual quiet Berlin.

Places you should visit when coming to Kreuzberg.

Jewish Museum

The building is made of striking glass, interior displays many Jewish artifacts in Germany, with many incidents happening to them in history.

Address: Lindenstraße 9-14, 10969 Berlin, Germany

German Museum of Technology (Deutsches Technikmuseum Berlin)

Display many collections of the history of German technology and engineering with artifacts of aircraft, ships, trains and even weapons during World War II. Admission to this museum is € 8.

Address: Trebbiner Str. 9, 10963 Berlin, Germany Hours: 9AM–5:30PM / Monday: Closed

Checkpoint Charlie

A place definitely not to be missed for tourists when coming to Berlin because it is one of the 7 checkpoints of the Berlin Wall that prevents the flow of people from crossing the border. This Charlie Checkpoint allows foreigners such as Britain, France and the US to move to East Germany. If you have an oppotunity to come here remember taking pictures with the guards (mostly part-time students) as a testament to a turbulent history of Berlin. Note that there is a museum on the Berlin wall nearby but there is nothing to see, you should not spend money to enter here.

Address: Friedrichstraße 43-45, 10117 Berlin, Germany

Berlin travel blog: Some other useful tips when traveling to Berlin

• Shops in Berlin are usually closed on Sundays, including shops, drug stores and supermarkets. You can still find some places that are open like in Brandenbourg Gate but seem to be only there. Except for cafes or restaurants that open all week. On weekdays, shops are open from 09:00 am to 08:00 pm depending on the location.
• Usually you speak English in Berlin they still understand and answer for you, but it is better to learn some basic German sentences because most of the street signs are in German.
• In Berlin, the central district is Mitte, if you staying and living in Mitte and Charlottenburg is of course more expensive than in the Alexanderplatz area which was formerly the center of East Berlin.
• The Berliners generally dressed quite simply, not many people dressed in a style way on the streets with clothes, bags and shoes brands. They can be very friendly, try to help you but often they rarely smile. And if you meet someone who is proactively approaching you, asks you for some information like asking directions, or asking you to answer a survey or something like that. It is best if you answer that you are not a native and do not know anything to avoid risks.

Some best day tours, trips, activities and transfer services, tickets in, from and to Berlin you can refer to

• Discover Berlin Half Day Walking Tour
• Potsdam Half Day Tour from Berlin
• East Berlin Half Day Walking Tour
• Berlin Friedrichstadt-Palast: Vivid Grand Show Ticket in Berlin
• LEGOLAND® Discovery Centre Ticket in Berlin
• Berlin Red Buses Hop On Hop Off Sightseeing Bus
• Berlin Big Bus Hop-On Hop-Off Tours (Open-Top)
• 4G WiFi (SG Delivery) for Europe
• 3G/4G SIM Card for Multiple European Countries (HK Airport Pick Up)
• 4G Portable WiFi for Europe from Uroaming

How to get around Berlin? Read more: How to get around Berlin cheap? — 5 best way to get around Berlin & how to travel around Berlin . Are you looking for more top things to do in Berlin: Tours, activities, attractions and other things? Let’s check it out here.

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How to Spend Three Days in Berlin, Germany: My 2023 Itinerary

When I visited Berlin for the first time, it felt surreal. The capital city of Germany has undergone more transformative events than I can count, and throughout its own history has reached the bottom as well as the top.

And Berlin is a city that has so many stories to tell, from the fall of political regimes to creating an international culture full of diversity, acceptance, and independence. I always believe that every city has a life of its own. History, people, politics, architecture, opportunities: each city has a unique atmosphere that you can’t quite find anywhere else, and the deeper you look, the more the city comes alive for you.

And if there’s one thing I know after having spent some time in this wonderful city, it’s that Berlin knows how to rise from the ashes. In spite of its tumultuous past, Berlin is now the city you go to if you’re looking for open-minded people, a beautiful sense of diversity, and bustling life that burns so strongly that barely anything could douse it.  

And that’s probably what I love about Berlin the most. The acceptance of everyone, and the desire to do better, be better, and enjoy life while doing so. Berlin shows the world that even though it was almost destroyed in the war, even though there used to be a wall dividing its citizens, and even though the city lost so much… it also gained. It learned and grew and proved the world that you can rise up and make the world a beautiful place again. 

Before I get even soppier, let’s switch the focus to all of the great places you should visit if you’ve decided to spend some time in Berlin. With over 3.8 million inhabitants, Berlin is a huge city that plays an immense role in the European Union and is inevitably tied to European culture and heritage. There are numerous places in Berlin that are a must-see during your stay in the city, from the East Side Gallery to Berliner Fernsehturm to Museum Island. 

Berlin weaves the historical and the modern very well together, which means you get to visit a vast number of places that are both of historical value and exciting for people born in the 21st century. 

Oh, and while you’re in Berlin, I strongly recommend that you take the bus or subway in order to move between destinations. As I said, the city is really large, and if you attempt to walk it all on foot, you might not be able to get up from the bed the next day. I’m speaking from experience: getting from East Side Gallery to Charlottenburg on foot made me regret I hadn’t worked more on my fitness prior to the trip. 

That was the day I swore to myself it’d be the public transport or nothing whilst I’m in Berlin. I also took up jogging.

How Many Days Should You Spend in Berlin? 

Three days is the perfect amount of time to spend in Berlin.

With three days, you’ll be able to check out all of the city’s biggest highlights, as well as a few hidden gems, so will be able to leave without feeling as though you missed out on anything major.

I spent three days in Berlin back in 2018, then recently returned for another three days to show my partner everything I adored about it. What can I say? I really do love this city!

With that being said, it’s time to get started: here’s how to spend three days in Berlin.

Day 1: It’s All About The Historic Monuments 

Whenever I take a city break to somewhere in Europe, I kick off my adventure by heading to the most famous sites. After all, isn’t that why I came here? Yep, when I wake up, I’m ready to leave my hotel room and feel as though I’m unmistakably in the heart of Berlin.

Once you’ve had breakfast, then, take the U5 service directly to the Reichstag: the home of Germany’s parliament. This area can get super-crowded, but has a much more peaceful air in the early-morning, before all of the tour groups have gathered.

This, my friends, is where you can find some of the best views of Berlin.

Entrance to the building is free, and if you look at the photo above, you’ll see a glass dome on top of the roof. Because entrance is free, you’ll need to make a reservation to visit, and it’s regularly fully-booked. As in, you probably should have booked your slot on the Bundestag website two weeks ago. (Hopefully you’re reading this article before you touch down in Berlin!)

There are some same-day tickets available, but tickets are issued a minimum of two hours before your visit, so it’s kind of a pain to have to leave and come back. You can also visit as part of a guided tour, so that’s definitely an option if it’s all booked up — it’s just €15 for a 90-minute tour . You can check availability for that using the widget below:

Once you’ve finished up at the Reichstag, it’s time to make the three-minute stroll over to Brandenburg Gate, the most well-known landmark in Berlin.

Once a symbol of a divided city, it is now a national symbol of peace and unity. Again, the earlier the better to see this historic gate to avoid huge crowds. 

At night, there is a cool light show on the gate itself. It is a majestic landmark closely located next to lots of other attractions, so it makes a great stop on your sightseeing tour of Berlin’s history. 

Another two-minute walk is needed to visit the sombre Memorial to the Murdered Jews of Europe. 

It is a place of respect consisting of 2,711 concrete slabs arranged in a grid pattern. Situated on a former section of the Berlin Wall, it is one of the main tourist sites in Berlin since its inauguration in 2005. 

An attached underground ‘Place of Information’ writes the names of approximately three million Jewish Holocaust victims. 

Exuding a haunted, silent and sensitive aura, this is a place of commemoration and contemplation. Do not be tempted to sit on these memorial blocks or take excessive photographs. 

Located nearby is Tiergarten Park, a perfect escape for peaceful solitude. Translated loosely to Animal Gardens, I would personally recommend walking through the lush greenery to find an ideal spot for a lunch picnic. 

It is vast: 500 acres are filled with wildlife and greenery. It also holds the zoo towards the west end of the park, if you fancy a lunchtime peak at the animals (you have to book to enter). 

In the precise middle point of the Tiergarten, you will find the Victory Column. It is a monument, a giant pillar of Germany’s past military victories over France and Prussia. 

Only €3 to climb, it boasts amazing views of the whole city’s urban centre. Just to note, take care when climbing the narrow winding staircase – if you feel claustrophobic it is perhaps not the best option to climb this column. 

After lunch, venture to Hackescher Markt S-Bahn station, for one of the coolest street art tours I’ve ever taken.

Original Berlin Walks runs the tour, and will tell you all there is to know about street art in this city, as well as let you experience Berlin’s alternative urban art culture, taking you to secret spots around East Berlin. You will become well-versed in the history of the graffiti on the Berlin Wall. 

Perhaps most interesting is the exploration of culture and politics behind the street art galleries. 

The duration is three hours and is €20 per person – you get free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance. Book your tour here and become an expert in street art. 

If after a street art tour you are feeling inspired to create some art yourself, there is a graffiti workshop held at a section of the Berlin Wall. 

It’s €105.50 per person and it is likely to sell out as it is a huge success and is great fun to unleash your inner Banksy!

They begin the workshop with an interesting discussion about graffiti culture, and afterwards, the entire group will paint together, having lasting memories with professional photographs taken of your artwork. 

Only lasting 1.5 hours, it is a great way to get some creative juices flowing, in between sightseeing Berlin’s marvellous places.

Day 2: East Berlin

Begin the day by searching for the Hackescher Markt hidden alley, one of the quirkiest spots in the city. To find it, however, maybe a bit tricky. 

Head to the Cinema Café on Rosenthaler Strasse where an unassuming alleyway runs alongside it. After a dark entrance, you are greeted with a vibrant courtyard. It is home to many hipster cafes, artsy stores and boutiques and, of course, captivating street art. 

For a respite from the sightseeing, I would recommend taking a look at the indoor market situated south of the river, parallel to the East Side Gallery. Markthalle Neun is an indoor market with international food vendors and shops. It occasionally puts on community events, but its street food to choose from is the winning prize for coming here. 

Berlin is very vegan and vegetarian friendly. Many of the stalls are fully vegan and there are plenty of plant-based options to choose from. In addition, you can find wild oysters, bone broth, BBQ pulled pork sandwiches, artisan cheese, and of course, cocktails and craft beer. For a spot of lunch or a savoury mid-morning snack with an abundance of options, this is the perfect place to wander around before venturing on to the next stop. 

Now with a satisfied stomach and mind, head towards the Oberbaum Bridge to cross to the other side of the river. 

With a historic double-deck pathway overlooking the River Spree, you’ll find a landmark opened in 1896, a great bridge to snap a picture of the water’s reflection and the domed arches that accompany the bridge. Once you have arrived at the other point, the famous East Side Gallery awaits you. 

The East Side Gallery is a section of the Berlin wall which stands as a site of street art. It is 1316m long, sitting along the eastern bank of the Spree River and is considered the longest open-air gallery in the world. 

After the fall of the Berlin Wall, artists from 21 countries came to paint murals to celebrate Germany being reunited and to never forget the atrocities that occurred here in Berlin. 

I would recommend working your way from East to Central, stopping whenever you feel called to the artwork and its messages conveyed. From the end of the East Side Gallery, I would pick up an E-Scooter to explore the remaining parts of East Berlin before proceeding to the district of Kreuzberg. If scooting down the ordered streets of Berlin does not entice you, walking is always a good best option, or you can hire a bicycle instead. 

Full of artists, bars with outdoor seating, falafel and shawarma joints, and record and bookstores, Kreuzberg is a neighbourhood that is home to a large Turkish population, making it a bustling, diverse place with lots to see. 

Oraniestraße is a long street stretching from Kreuzberg to Checkpoint Charlie. You can either walk the whole way or take an E-Scooter or bike to sightsee but with added speed and some fresh air! 

Before visiting the Topography of Terror, Checkpoint Charlie is a historical landmark marking the boundary of east and west Berlin. You are greeted with a white sentry guard house and a cobbled border line. 

Tourists queue up to take a photograph with the guards, but I suggest you skip this part and simply admire the symbol of history that stands in front of you. 

To connect the dots of the story of the Third Reich, visiting the Topography of Terror will give you an insight into the troubled past. It is an open-air exhibition on excavated ruins of the headquarters of the Secret State Police, the SS and the Reich Security Main Office. 

If you do not end up visiting part of the Berlin Wall, this site includes 200m of the wall, marking the border between the districts of Mitte (East Berlin) and Kreuzberg (West Berlin). 

If you have time and want a deeper explanation and story of Berlin’s complex past, the Jewish Museum is a must-visit. Here, you can learn more about the personal stories of the Jewish community.

The building and museum were designed by Daniel Libeskind – this particular building became an important part of the city, its history and its attempt to understand its past. What is quite special about this museum is that it opens the floor for Jews to tell their personal stories, hearing anecdotes and real sentiments of that particular time in the flesh. 

Closing at 7 pm, you have plenty of time during the day or late afternoon to explore this striking contemporary building and what it has to offer. 

Day 3: Tours, Tours, Tours!

It’s the last day of your action-packed trip to Berlin, and we’re going to be spending the entirety of it in the northeast of the city, first beginning underground.

Yes, underground .

I was surprised to discover just how much this city has to offer to those who want to venture below the streets, from air raid shelters to escape tunnels that were dug beneath the Berlin Wall.

The tours are run by Berliner Unterwelton , who have four different options, all running every single day. My biggest tip is that you buy your tickets in advance, because they do sell out. My parents took Tour M — the one that takes you beneath the Berlin Wall — when they were in town and highly recommended it to me. I procrastinated, turned up to the ticket office an hour beforehand, and discovered it was sold out! Whoops . Learn from my mistakes and book your tour at least a week in advance.

Still, it wasn’t a huge disaster, as an alternative tour, Tour 1, had availability, so I jumped on that, and got to experience WWII bombing raids through the eyes of German civilians. It was fascinating .

I wrote an in-depth guide to my experience on Tour 1 , which included quite an embarrassing mishap part-way through!

Next on the itinerary is another tour, but this time exploring Berlin’s craft beer scene.   If you thoroughly enjoy craft beer, Berlin is the place for you. On Airbnb, you can find an experience to help you better explore beer culture. From €46 per person, the tour lasts 3.5 hours, meaning you will get an in-depth explanation of all there is to know about craft beer. 

Meeting in Prenzlauer Berg, you will head to a craft brewery built in 1893. You will inspect brewing kettles and understand the brewing process, getting the chance to taste the beer and learn about its history. Then, craft beer bar hopping is on the agenda, with the last one situated next to Berlin’s famous Mauerpark. If you are interested, book your tour ticket here .

On the way to the subway, you will find a Photoautomat, an old-school photo booth. Only costing €2, it is a great way to make a memory of your time here in Berlin. 

If you have time, I would recommend one last museum to visit. The Stasi Museum is a museum dedicated to the history of the terrifying secret police, the GDR. It is estimated that one in 10 East Germans worked as an informant for the Stasi in 1949. The museum also highlights Orwellian brainwashing that took place in schools. 

After a long day of exploring the city, end your night by treating yourself to a cocktail at a speakeasy bar. If you are thinking of going out after to one of Berlin’s many clubs, you can treat this space as a place for starting your night in style, before a long night ahead. 

These particular types of bars are very common on the East side of Berlin and are enjoyed by locals and visitors alike. The Becketts Kopf in Prenzlauer Berg is a chill spot where you can relax inside on red leather sofas. I must add that there is no standing allowed inside so show up relatively early to find a seat. To get in, there is a photograph of Beckett hanging in the window of the bar. Ring the buzzer and check for availability inside. 

If you are into techno, you can try to get into the infamous Berghain club. If that’s not your go-to option, yet you still want to enjoy the techno scene, I would recommend Tresor which is in Kreuzberg. 

Where to Stay: Boutique Hotel Mittendrin 

Where I stayed in Berlin is a repurposed apartment called the Boutique Hotel Mittendrin . 

It was glorious . Located in the bustling shopping district of Charlottenburg-Wilmersdorf, it is central to amenities and the historic hub of Berlin’s centre. 

Just a three-minute walk to Kurfürstendamm and the KaDeWe shopping mall, it was great to be surrounded by a huge number of restaurants, bars and shops. 

Not only this, but the train station for the underground is a five-minute walk away (U Wittenbergplatz). The U2 line was great for the east-west connection – it got us places in less than 20 minutes. 

The interior of the hotel was stunning. I was blown away by the mix of rustic and modern chic furniture. Being a historically characteristic old apartment house, the original unique features were still present. The rooms were airy and light, with big windows and a coloured accent wall (ours was a deep maroon!) The room came individually furnished: the seating area was a luxurious add-on, and it was perfect for relaxing before a goodnight’s rest. 

Perhaps the best thing about staying in this hotel was the breakfast service and our host Sabine. It was delicious and the quality of the food was fantastic. Each breakfast was a little different from the last. From 7.30 am till 10.30 am (which is perfect for a full day of exploring), the spread was generous, and it catered to all our needs. 

The most interesting aspect about this wonderful breakfast experience was that you are placed all together at one table, allowing a chance to bond with other guests from all over the world which fostered a genuine community feel in the three days we stayed there. 

Sabine, our host, was wonderful. She took care of us and every little detail. It was a beautiful relaxing stay at this little boutique hotel in West Berlin, a truly unique and intimate experience – perfect for a city break. 

The Best Time of Year to Visit 

Berlin is best to visit from late spring to early summer, or late summer to early autumn. 

From May through to September, the weather is ideal for strolling, sitting in outdoor cafes and taking walking tours of the city. 

Specifically, I would recommend May/June as the ideal month to travel to Berlin. The weather is glorious: sunny blue skies and not scorching temperatures just yet, the crowds are limited, and if you search for them, there are lots of festivals occurring in the month of May. 

In the summer, Berlin comes alive. The streets are packed with city dwellers enjoying locally sourced craft beer and iced lattes, basking in the heat and chatting with friends. The green, ordered streets are made even greener by the sun’s touch; everything is made vigorous and vibrant. 

One must know that summer is the rainiest season in Berlin because of the heat, but that shouldn’t stop you. Enjoy what Berlin has to offer! 

Transport: Getting Around the City 

Like every other major city in Western Europe, Berlin is super well connected. I would advise using the U-Bahn underground trains as your main source of transportation. It runs on 10 coloured routes throughout the city with trains coming every five to 10 minutes during the day. 

With sustained action from 4 am till 1 am on weekdays, and weekends the U- Bahn and S-Bahn operate 24 hours. 

If, on a weekday, you decide to explore Berlin’s nightlife scene, the Metro tram runs on a 24-hour basis, arriving in 30-minute intervals. Alternatively, there are night buses (N1-9) which follow subway routes. 

In terms of pricing, in the fare zone AB (which is the urban centre) it costs €3 for a single ticket. This includes a two-hour journey one-way, which means you will have to purchase another ticket for the return journey. 

For a 24-hour single ticket, it costs €8.80 and you can take as many trips as desired, and for a 24-hour group ticket, the price is €25.50. This includes up to five people including your dog! 

It is a symbol of the city’s organised and bureaucratic way of life. This is juxtaposed with the edgy, gritty aesthetic of the underground train stations: the names of the stations are written boldly on the wall, and yellow is the primary colour underground. 

The S-Bahn elevated trains are less frequent and not as well connected as the U-Bahn service. However, it is the preferred choice for travellers venturing to the outskirts of the city. 

Berlin also has an efficient bus system but is slower than the rail. Sometimes, it is considered unreliable by German standards. It must be stated that masks are still required on public transport. 

Of course, metered taxis can be hailed through the city streets or taxi apps such as Uber operates perfectly well in Berlin. It is said that in Berlin Uber is much cheaper than in the US and the UK! 

If you want a more cost-effective, sustainable way of travelling through the city, cycling is a great option. Visitors may choose from seven or eight different companies of bike hires which all operate as ‘dockless’ bikes. This means that riders can leave their bikes at their destination when they are finished, and not have to return the bikes to a docking station. You could also try an E-Scooter if you are feeling adventurous. 

You can choose from Lime, Bird, Tier and Bolt. All you have to do is download their app, enter your details and scan the specific bar code on the scooter and you’re off! It is as simple as that. This is a great option for when you don’t have to travel too far from one destination to another and to explore the city dynamically. Walking is always a safe bet, but if you are short of time, use the other options mentioned above.

Safety Advice: Beware of Fake Policemen

Compared with other major cities, Berlin is considered safe, however, there are some universal precautions that you still ought to bear in mind. Stick to busy, well-lit streets at night and beware of pickpockets, especially in busy touristic areas. 

Avoid falling asleep on the U-Bahn, especially at night, as wallets and phones are often stolen from sleeping passengers. ALWAYS keep valuables close to you. 

A scam known to most metropolitan cities is fake policemen. Beware of these characters as they are trying to steal from you in popular tourist attractions. They stop tourists under the pretence of searching for drugs or counterfeit money (they demand to see ID cards). 

If you are going out at night clubbing, watch out for drink spiking. Always keep your drink close to you. 

One thing to be aware of is protests. The youth of Berlin are inspiring and are actively standing up for worldly issues. Sometimes, however, they can get pretty tense, and people can get injured. Stay away to avoid these problems. 

If you decide to rent a bike, lock it up safely and securely when it’s parked. Watch out for cycle lanes when walking, and don’t walk on the wrong side of the pavement! 

What to Know Before You Go 

Politeness and manners are important. Saying good morning (Guten morgen ) and good evening (Guten Abend ) is important, as is knowing when to say it at the right time. 

Germans are sensitive about their past, so tread carefully and with the utmost respect. That being said, it is perfectly ok to be curious and ask questions about the past, to get a more well-rounded view of that specific period. Indeed, Young people nowadays in Berlin are open to being vulnerable and having honest conversations about their history and what atrocities have occurred. 

It must be mentioned that there is a strict code of conduct when it comes to do with traffic. Traffic rules are extremely important here in Berlin: Do not cross a road when the little man is red. 

This also goes for cyclists – if they do, a hefty fine is coming their way. This shows the other side of Berlin, the rule-bound and bureaucratic Berlin. 

Lastly, do not forget your European adapter if you are from the US or the UK! 

I hope I have explained everything there is to know about Berlin’s main tourist attractions and its quirky, edgy East side. It is truly a marvellous city, a city like no other in Europe. 

Enjoy your vibrant stay in Berlin! 

Lauren Juliff

Lauren Juliff is a published author and travel expert who founded Never Ending Footsteps in 2011. She has spent over 12 years travelling the world, sharing in-depth advice from more than 100 countries across six continents. Lauren's travel advice has been featured in publications like the BBC, Wall Street Journal, USA Today, and Cosmopolitan, and her work is read by 200,000 readers each month. Her travel memoir can be found in bookstores across the planet.

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Things To Do On Your First Trip To Berlin

With just a few days in Berlin, here are a few tips on what to see and do, great tours to book, plus some of my favourite places to eat in the city!

As you’ll have seen in my recent blog, I’ve just got back from Berlin! I was there for four days and spent one of them exploring the IGA Berlin 2017 – the huge garden show that’s on until October. It was my first time in the city and I was REALLY excited to see and do as much as possible.

The history of Berlin is complex, but one I’d recommend reading up on. It’s multi-layered and obviously has very dark patches, but despite not being a history buff, I enjoyed learning what the city had been through. As I explored on foot, I felt like the city made more sense to me.

While I did some research on where to go, I also let myself explore, you know… get lost! The result? Some great places to eat, views, and spots to recommend to you guys.

How To Travel Around Berlin

Hurrah, a city with a great transport network! I used Google Maps to navigate the city, and other than not always being sure which side of the road I needed to catch the tram from, it was an easy experience. The U Bahn (subway system is really simple to understand, and trains come regularly (every few mins in peak times). There are trams and buses too.

The part I found strange was that you don’t show tickets very often or pass through barriers to enter public transport. I’ve heard that people buy tickets as there are strong penalties if you’re caught without – so just don’t risk it!

I’d recommend picking up a  Berlin City Pass . Along with discounts at many attractions in the city, it also covers your public transport for the duration of your trip. It also includes travel to and from the airport. I ordered mine in advance, printed it at home, and used it right from the start of my trip from Berlin Airport.

Berlin City Sights

There’s SO much to see and do in Berlin, and at times it feels so big (particularly with there not being just one centre). As mentioned, the transport system is excellent, so you really can see a lot, even if you only have a short time.

Head to the Reichstag and Brandenburg Gate. If you apply in advance you can visit the beautiful dome of the Reichstag (find out how here ). The Monument To The Murdered Jews is so moving, and a walk through the towering columns is something I’d urge anyone to experience as part of their trip.

Museum Island is another must-see and I also loved exploring the many courtyards of Hackesche Höfe . Tucked away, this really is one of the city’s hidden gems! Close by is a street covered in murals and graffiti,  just next to the Anne Frank Museum.

To be honest, I love just how walkable Berlin is. If you’re on a budget, I’d recommend taking yourself on a free walking tour of Berlin Mitte ,  which allows you to check out the key sights in your own time.

Visit The East Side Gallery

Over 100 Artists from all over the world were invited to paint murals on the remaining section of the Berlin Wall in 1990. It’s now a brightly-coloured, outdoor gallery and while most are a direct comment on the political state of the world when the wall came down, some seem as relevant today as they did back then.

Take your time looking at each mural – they have so many incredible details, and are worth more than the photo-and-go that the coach loads of tourists do.

Check latest prices and availability for the Cold War Tour of Berlin including a visit to the East Side Gallery

Mauerpark Fleamarket

After my time in the city, I’d say this Sunday market is so quintessentially Berlin! There are hundreds of stalls selling everything from vintage clothes and antiques, to handmade jewellery and the most random of nic-nacs. There’s also a huge street food section with plenty of great smells to lure you in!

Then in the park area you’ll find performers, street artists and the legendary Sunday karaoke (which draws huge crowds!) It was one of my highlights of my time in Berlin.

Berliner Fernsehturm

Berlin’s tallest building offers the best (and most central) views of the city. Once in the lift, you’ll venture upwards at speeds of 6m per second to the observation deck – a height of 203m.

Top tip – check out their offers . When I visited they were running a fast view ticket, with coffee and cake served in Sphere Restaurant for just 20.50 EUR. Considering a fast view ticket on its own is 19.50 EUR, it’s a great deal, but it only runs between 2-4pm on weekdays.

Check latest prices and availability for a trip up the   Berliner Fernsehturm (TV Tower)

Bite Berlin Food Tour

I am a strong believer that you learn a lot about a place by eating your way around it… so for me, the way to learn about the best things to eat in Germany  is by taking a food tour. The tour I took with Sam from Bite Berlin came highly recommended and was excellent.

She showed us the best place for currywurst, took us to her favourite Vietnamese restaurant and then for tasty cinnamon buns. I learned plenty about the history and culture of the city too, and rolled back to my hotel full and ready for a nap!

Check latest prices and availability for the Bite Berlin Food Tour

Withlocals Urban Jungle Tour

This was another great tour, showcasing the gritty, urban, alternative side to the city. Betty from Withlocals  showed me some of the city’s best street art and took me to parts of the city I’d never have found on my own. We even popped along to Berlin’s smallest disco.

Check latest prices and availability for the Urban Jungle Alternative Tour Of Berlin

If you have a few more days in Berlin, here are a few other tour suggestions to check out…

Berlin Segway Tour – Segway tours are so much fun, and a great way to cover a lot of ground when time is limited. On this segway tour of Berlin you’ll see the Brandenburg Gate, Berlin Cathedral, Museum Island, Reichstag, Gendarmenmarkt and the East Side Gallery, while hearing stories about the city’s complex history.

Check latest prices and availability for a  segway tour of Berlin

Evening Berlin Food Tour by Bike – Nothing like burning a few calories on two wheels to justify eating more on your holiday! This tour takes you around the vibrant neighbourhood of Prenzlauer Berg with stops at some of the best restaurants in the area.

Check latest prices and availability for the Berlin food tour by bike

Berlin lunch cruise  OR  Berlin dinner cruise  –  A cruise along the River Spree is a great way to soak up the history of the city, while snapping some beautiful photos. Even better with a nice meal to tuck into! I love taking boat trips, so I’ll definitely check one of these cruises out next time I’m in Berlin!

Check latest prices and availability for a  Berlin lunch cruise  OR a Berlin dinner cruise

Berlin Bike Tour  – I’m a little wobbly on two wheels so tend to avoid bike tours, but for many of my friends (and Berliners too) this is a fave way to travel. On this 4.5 hour tour you’ll hear the full history of Berlin, while speeding past the Berlin Wall Memorial, Checkpoint Charlie, Brandenburg Gate, the Spree River and Tiergarten Park. Plus, when you start to feel tired, there’s the opportunity to stop by a beer garden too.

Check latest prices and availability for a  Berlin bike tour

Nightlife Tour through Alternative Berlin with Local Guide  – As I was travelling solo, I was tempted to book onto a tour like this! I’m not usually brave enough to go to bars or clubs late at night solo, unless I know the lay of the land. On this tour you’ll find out where the locals drink, and party with them! From goth bars to craft beer spots, you’ll explore Prenzlauer Berg, Kreuzberg, Friedrichshain, Neukölln and Wedding, and feel like a true Berliner by the end!

Check latest prices and availability for the  Berlin nightlife tour

3-Hour Berlin Beer Tour  – Beer is a big deal in Berlin, and beer lovers will be excited by the range of craft beers on offer in the city. On this tour, you’ll find out about Germany’s brewing industry, “biergartens” and try some great pints along the way.

Check latest prices and availability for the  Berlin beer tour

Where To Eat In Berlin

House Of Small Wonder – An Instagrammable delight, this café serves up healthy salads and tasty brunch-style food. Expect zucchini noodles, Japanese salads, katsu and watermelon with feta.

District Mot  – There is a very large Vietnamese population in Berlin (as I learned on my food tour) so with that comes great food around the city! I loved this restaurant, which specialises in a street food vibe and great flavours. The bao burgers have won awards and are particularly worth a try!

Curry 61 – THE place for currywurst in the city. It’s not gourmet but you have to try it when you come to Berlin!

Cocolo Ramen – Expect to queue at this tiny ramen joint serving up tasty and authentic tonkotsu and gyozas. I waited for 45 minutes and am still debating whether it was worth it, but it was pretty good! I’m sure if you go during the day you’ll beat the queues!

Madang – This Korean restaurant serves up tasty hot pots and grills. Part of the fun is in sharing lots of dishes and the theatre of the huge grill trays! The spicy tofu grill was delicious, especially once the sauce caramelised!

Neumanns – I really loved walking around Friedrichshain, and decided this was the café for my final lunch. I wasn’t disappointed! Along with it’s hipster interior, their coffee is great and topped-sourdough dishes make a delicious lunch.

Woop Woop Ice Cream – A bit of novelty, this ice cream shop opened earlier this year and makes four flavours of ice cream using liquid nitrogen. Have it in a cup or a bubble waffle and watch the magic happen in front of your eyes!

Where To Stay In Berlin

The Circus Hotel – Funky, stylish, quirky and well-located, this hotel was perfect for my stay. There are U-Bahn and tram stops right outside at Rosenthal Platz, plus plenty of lovely restaurants and boutiques nearby. The breakfasts downstairs at Commonground are excellent too.

This blog was produced in association with the GNTB but as always, opinions are my own.

Enjoyed this post? Why not pin it for later…

Chloe gunning.

With a passion for food, fun and adventure, Chloe is the content creator behind one of the UK's top travel blogs Wanderlust Chloe. From volcano boarding in Nicaragua, to sailing around Sicily and eating her way around Japan, her travels have taken her to some of the coolest spots on the planet. Named Travel Influencer of the Year in 2022, Chloe regularly works with a number of tourism boards, producing inspirational travel content across multiple platforms. Find out more about Chloe here.

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Home » Europe » Germany » Berlin

INSIDER BERLIN ITINERARY for (2024)

Whether you’re spending a weekend in Berlin or planning a week-long trip, the city has an almost unrivaled diversity! In every corner of Berlin, you will find something fresh and exciting! From the historic buildings and a plethora of top-notch museums to vibrant outdoor galleries, your Berlin itinerary will be filled to the brim!

There are so many places in the world that are considered awesome to visit, but few are truly cool as Berlin. Germany’s capital city, with its thriving art scene, innovative cuisine, and spectacular architecture definitely deserves a spot on your travel wish list!

From the city’s dark and turbulent past, it has emerged as a warrior for social change and with a passion for remembering its history. One of the most remarkable things about this incredible city is the many memorials and Berlin landmarks which act as a reminder to forever learn from history.

And since there’s so much to do in this city, I’ve come up with the perfect Berlin itinerary for your visit. That way you can explore everything without the fear of missing out on the must-see attractions in Berlin.

Let’s get right to it!

A Little Bit about this 3-Day Berlin Itinerary

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Berlin’s history, architecture, foodie scene, and tendency to embrace the oddball has turned Berlin into a truly memorable city! It has something for every traveler, from sprawling parks to incredible museums and spooky tours, you’ll never run out of things to do in Berlin !

Whether you’re spending a one day in Berlin or planning an unforgettable Berlin itinerary, there are some phenomenal options jostling for a spot on your list! We’d personally suggest taking at least two-three full days to explore the city. If you want to see all of the important landmarks you might be able to fit everything into 24 hours, but that’ll guarantee a lot of stress. So do yourself a favour and set more time aside.

In this itinerary, you’ll find three days packed with action, culture, history and adventure. But don’t worry, you won’t have to rush from A to B, trying to fit everything in.

I’ve chosen the ideal daily structure, added times, routes to get there and suggestions on how long you should spend at each spot. Of course, you can add your own spots in, swap things around, or even skip some places. Use this itinerary as inspiration instead of a fixed plan to get the most out of your trip!

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3 Day Berlin Itinerary Overview

• Day 1: Berlin Botanic Garden and Museum | Charlottenburg Palace | Reichstag Building | Brandenburg Gate | Berliner Philharmonie
• Day 2: Urban Spree | Museum Island | Berlin Cathedral | Berlin Story Bunker | Berlin Zoological Garden
• Day 3: Mauerpark | Molecule Men at Warschauer Straße | East Side Gallery | Spree River Boat Trip

With a Berlin City Pass , you can experience the best of Berlin at the CHEAPEST prices. Discounts, attractions, tickets, and even public transport are all standards in any good city pass – be sure invest now and save them $$$ when you arrive!

No matter how many days in Berlin you’ll spend exploring and enjoying the many sights the city holds, you’ll need somewhere fantastic to stay. Because there’s so much to see and do on your vacation in Berlin, it’s always a good idea to stay somewhere central and in an area that has what you’re looking for!

Berlin was divided by the Berlin Wall for so many years, which means that its layout is a tad complicated to navigate. However, this also means that there are multiple ‘mini hubs’ in the city, where you’ll find another batch of places to visit in Berlin! So, if you’re looking for the best place to stay in Berlin , I’ve got you covered with some of the city’s finest options.

Because the city is so diverse, every neighborhood has its own unique atmosphere and fantastic Berlin points of interest. So your decision of where to stay truly depends on what you want on your trip to Berlin!

Mitte is one of the go-to places if you’re interested in popular Berlin attractions , sightseeing and getting a feel for Berlin’s old-timey charm. This central location is filled with amazing things to do, including a ride in the AquaDom elevator where you’re surrounded by sea life!

Friedrichshain is another amazing choice! This popular, up-and-coming community is the perfect spot for creative travelers looking for something different. As one of the cheapest neighborhoods in Berlin, there’s a fantastic array of accommodation. This urban spot is a night owl’s paradise and it’s also where you’ll find the fascinating Computer Games Museum!

Speaking of incredible places to stay in Berlin, Kreuzberg (or Xberg) is a lively cultural hotspot where river beaches combine with a vibrant nightlife and some amazing street art to create an unbeatable place to stay.

If you’re looking for something else entirely, the charming area of Charlottenburg-Wilmersdorf is filled with family-friendly attractions to add to your Berlin itinerary! With world-class restaurants and a range of historic landmarks, this is the perfect spot for a diverse group of travelers. Check out the famous shopping street of Kurfürstendamm while you’re there!

As popular with budget backpackers as it is with seasoned luxury travelers, Belin boasts a diverse range of accommodation options. From luxury hotels to cozy guesthouses, lively hostels, charming B&Bs , and homestays, you’re garanteed to have a perfect stay here.

Best Hostel in Berlin – PLUS Berlin

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Brilliantly located near the East Side Gallery, and nestled between some of Berlin’s prime nightlife spots, PLUS Berlin is one of the best party hostels in Berlin ! Complete with a swimming pool, sauna, and lovely garden, this hostel has it all. Enjoy the vibe at their Opera Bar and restaurant, or head out to the fantastic clubs just a stone’s throw away!

Best Airbnb in Berlin – Design loft with rooftop & pool

Chic and stylish with access to a shared pool and cool rooftop garden, this apartment is located in the heart of Berlin, in the neighborhood of Mitte.

The compact apartment has a modern kitchen and the large windows provide plenty of natural lighting. There’s a separate desk and dining table and the apartment has free Wi-Fi. The monochrome is the best place to stay in Berlin for a couple.

Best Budget Hotel in Berlin – Hotel Ludwig van Beethoven

Enjoy this 3-star hotel with a great price tag in a charming and vibrant neighborhood! With a 24-hour reception and delicious buffet breakfasts served on their rooftop breakfast patio, you’ll love every minute of your stay. Stop off at the fantastic local eateries or enjoy touring Berlin with uber-easy nearby transport options!

The first day in Berlin is going to start in nature, which is perfect if you just have a long journey behind you. Afterwards, you’ll head into the city to explore some of the most important monuments of the city. Be sure to wear comfy shoes and bring some snacks!

Being the massive and diverse city it is, Berlin also provides locals and visitors with a fantastic public transport system. One of the most popular ways to get around in Berlin is via the U-Bahn (the underground) or S-Bahn trains which run all over the city. You could also jump one of the city’s handy trams or buses. It’s very easy to get tickets for any of these modes of transport, just make sure you get your hands on a map so no time is wasted by getting lost!

While a lot of Berlin is super walkable, it doesn’t help with getting the most out of your trip. Perhaps the best thing to do is grab one of the city’s travel passes. You can get to your destination easily and spend more time exploring Berlin!

Wondering what to do in Berlin? Whether you love art, history, food, a happening nightlife scene, or you’re up for anything, I’ve put together a stellar Berlin itinerary that will make your trip unforgettable!

Take a look at some of the top-notch options for day one on our itinerary for Berlin! Get in touch with nature at the lush Botanic Garden, then take in a spot of history at some of the finest Berlin landmarks – Charlottenburg Palace, the Reichstag Building, and Brandenburg Gate. Then, finish off your day to the sound of the Berlin Philharmonic!

9am – Berlin Botanic Garden and Museum

If you love a splash of nature on a vacation in the city, enjoy a morning at the Berlin Botanic Garden. This oasis of lush greenery and incredible diversity is filled with stunning greenhouses, a sea of colorful flora and a chance to learn a little something as well!

Travel through this historic garden where you can enjoy a walk around Viktoriahaus, which is over one hundred years old! Explore the incredible collection of orchids, carnivorous plants (yikes!) and stunning white water lilies. Then, get lost in the tranquil arboretum where towering trees and the amazing Arbor of Roses right in the middle!

This immaculate garden is a fascinating place, especially thanks to the on-site museum where you can check out a range of models that give you an inside look into plant structures that are usually invisible to the naked eye. Think “forest in a matchbox”!

Insider Tip: The entrance ticket includes admission to the museum as well

• Cost – 6€ for adults
• Getting there – The S1 line stops directly at the garden
• How long should you stay – Give yourself 1-2 hours to enjoy the beauty of the garden and museum

11.30am – Charlottenburg Palace

Be greeted at the entrance by an impressive equestrian statue of King Friederich Wilhelm III – a fitting beginning to an incredible palace tour. Once a royal summer residence, the Charlottenburg Palace is Berlin’s largest and most magnificent royal house!

Spectacular paintings fill the walls and lofty ceilings of the palace, while amazing statues stand like sentinels as you explore the grounds. Don’t miss a look at the Belvedere former tea house and pavilion with amazing panoramic views, as well as the on-site mausoleum where the castle’s namesake was laid to rest. The palace was named after the beloved first Queen consort of Prussia, Sophie Charlotte.

The Goldene Galerie (the castles rococo ballroom) makes for quite the sight, and you’ll feel utterly regal as you admire its remarkable interior! The Old Palace and New Wing are both open to the public on your tour, while the grounds are free to explore.

Speaking of the garden, the palace’s impressive formal garden is surrounded by a lush woodland that makes it all the more royal!

• Cost: USD $23 for a full-access ticket.
• Getting there – Walk to the U9 and change to U7 at Berliner Straße
• How long should you stay – 60-90min

2pm – Reichstag Building

Add a significant and fascinating piece of history to your Berlin itinerary with a visit to the Reichstag Building!

Home to Germany’s parliament, this historical Berlin landmark has quite the history, from World War II and well into the Cold War. You can even get a peek at the current-day parliament at work!

Visitors can still see the Soviet graffiti on fire-touched walls after its occupation by the USSR. marked by history, the Reichstag Building was used for propaganda presentations and military purposes during WWII, and it became the main target in the 1945 Battle of Berlin. If you’re a history buff or have a love for politics, this is definitely one to add to your Berlin trip itinerary!

It also grew in popularity among tourists when it was home to the widely-praised Fragen an die deutsche Geschichte (questions to the German history). Now regarded as the second most visited landmark in Germany, visiting the Reichstag Building is a must on your Berlin vacation!

• Cos t – Free entrance!
• Getting there – Take the bus line M45 and change to line 100 at Berlin Zoologischer Garten railway station
• How long should you stay – 45-60min

3pm – Brandenburg Gate

As one of Berlin’s most well-known landmarks, Brandenburg Gate promises a lot! This 18th-century monument is built on the former city gate that marked the start of the road from Berlin to Brandenburg’s capital. This began the long and eventful history of Brandenburg Gate!

It also happens to be an actual gate into Unter den Linden, the famous boulevard of linden trees which leads directly to the spectacular Berlin City Palace of Prussian monarchs. The gate has become a symbol of unity and peace, and was the first piece to ‘Athen’s on the River Spree’ as you can see by its amazing design. Admire this incredible monument, which is adorned with a powerful statue and draws visitors from all over the world!

For the true history lovers, it was also here that Ronald Regan gave his iconic speech where he said, “Mr. Gorbachov, tear down this wall!” As a site of struggle, victory and celebration (it’s the popular finish line of the Berlin Marathon), the Brandenburg Gate definitely belongs on your Berlin itinerary!

Insider tip: visiting the Brandenburg Gate is especially atmospheric after dark!

• Cost: Free to see!
• Getting there – It’s a short walk from the previous stop
• How long should you stay here – 30min max

3.30pm – Unter den Linden

This boulevard takes you right from the Brandenburg Gate to the City Palace. It’s become one of the most famous streets in Berlin, alongside the Kufürstendamm which is located in the west. The straight street offers a cool view that moves straight through the city centre. It’s worth standing on either end and taking a few pics.

While strolling along the 1.5 km long road, you pass numerous important buildings such as the Humboldt University and the Staatsoper, and landmarks such as the Neue Wache and the Zeughaus. The boulevard also boasts restaurants, cafés and shops which is great for a quick afternoon snack.

You’ll also walk past monuments that we’ll have a closer look at on day two of the Berlin itinerary, such as the Museum Island and the famous cathedral.

• Cost – Free!
• Getting there – The boulevard starts right at the previous one!

6pm – Berliner Philharmonie

For classical music fans or anyone who enjoys the arts, a visit to this remarkable venue is a dream!

Situated in the beating heart of the city, the building is stunning on its own. With an incredible tent-like design and golden facade, the atmosphere is unreal. Then comes the performance by one of the world’s finest philharmonic orchestras.

The Berlin Philharmonic is anything but conventional! They deliver exquisite performances of the musical greats while giving it a sense of fun. As a fairly young orchestra, they’re open to performing jazz or show tunes and once started playing a completely different score much to their maestro’s bemusement.

The Berlin Philharmonic also has a forested venue on the city outskirts where you can enjoy one of their unbelievable performances. This award-winning orchestra is absolutely mandatory on your Berlin itinerary!

Insider tip: Be sure to get there early for their afternoon chamber music performance which they put on every Tuesday at 1pm, and they get filled up quickly!

• Cost –Tickets depend on seating but range from USD $12 for standing room to USD $325 for prime seats.
• Getting there – It’s a chill 20min walk from the Unter den Linden Subway station. You can also opt to take the bus!
• How long should you stay – Until the show is over – Make sure to check the schedule !

Wanna know how to pack like a pro? Well for a start you need the right gear….

These are packing cubes for the globetrotters and compression sacks for the  real adventurers – these babies are a traveller’s best kept secret. They organise yo’ packing and minimise volume too so you can pack MORE.

Or, y’know… you can stick to just chucking it all in your backpack…

Make your 2 days in Berlin memorable with a mixed bag of eclectic Berlin culture, a visit to the incredible Museum Island as well as an extra dose of nature with a trip to the zoo!

9am – Urban Spree

Get a taste for the legendary Berlin culture at this eclectic art gallery and the outdoor hub that surrounds it. If you’re looking for some incredible street art, themed clubs, and live music bars- you’ll find it all here!

Explore the amazing art gallery where stunning exhibits are on display. Then, enjoy a meander through the unbelievable collection of truly unique gems! Berlin has some of the best English bookshops where prints by featured artists are sold, as well as a fantastic array of rare books and zines.

Stroll through the patchwork of exhibitions, eateries, and a beer garden that’s just right for a relaxed day in Berlin. If you’re still hungry for more, there just so happens to be wall climbing available as well as one of Berlin’s tiniest discos.

Climb inside a converted phonebooth complete with dry ice, strobe lights, and a disco ball. You can even record your three-minute rave to some killer tunes (for the memories of course). If you’re after a glimpse inside Berlin’s epic street culture, this is the perfect place to start!

• Cost – It’s Free!
• Getting there – Take any public transport option to “Warschauer Staraße”
• How long should you stay – Around 60min

10am – Museum Island

If you thought Berlin couldn’t surprise you anymore, it’s done it again with an actual island covered in museums! This collection of world-renowned museums is home to an impressive array of artifacts and art, along with the promise of a fantastic experience.

Visit the Neues Museum, which is home to the famous bust of Queen Nefertiti as well as outstanding pieces from the Collection of Classical Antiquities. The Old National Gallery sits above the island like an old king on his throne and houses work by Manet, Menzel, and Monet, as well as paintings and sculptures from Romanticism to early Modernist art.

Altes Museum was the first on the island and showcases art and sculptures from classical antiquity including the busts of Caesar and Cleopatra. Then hit Bode-museum where you’ll find an extensive collection of sculptures dating all the way back to the medieval period to the late 18th century.

Last but not least, enjoy a walk through the Pergamonmuseum, which houses the Roman Market Gate of Miletus and the historic Tell Halaf facade. If you have a love for art, history and everything in between, definitely add Museum Island to your Berlin itinerary!

• Cost – The Museum Pass Berlin is USD $34, a one-day ticket to all exhibitions is USD $22.
• Getting there – Take the S1 towards Alexander Platz and take a quick walk to the Island.
• How long should you stay – Anything from 2-5 hours! Depending on how many Museums you want to have a look at.

1.30pm – Berlin Cathedral

After you have your fill of museums, hop on over the Berlin Cathedral which also sits on Museum Island! This major work of historicist architecture is quite the Berlin attraction and one of the most amazing landmarks on the city’s landscape.

First of all, you can enjoy breathtaking views of Berlin from the cathedral’s spectacular dome. Then, enjoy the incredible interior of this historic basilica. Crowned with a lantern and golden cross, the dome is flanked by four impressive towers! Drink in the stunning decor including ornamental mosaics, touches of gold, and amazing statues.

One of the cathedral’s most notable features is the marble and onyx altar, which draws the eye as soon as you walk in! The Imperial Staircase is another stellar feature, which was used for the entrance of an arriving royal couple. The cathedral also houses the Hohenzollern Crypt , the most prominent dynastic vault in the country!

Take in every corner of this stunning monument where historic beauty and an unreal atmosphere fill the hallowed halls. The cathedral also hosts a regular program of concerts, which are definitely worth seeing if you have the chance.

• Cost – USD $9 for adults and USD $7 for students.
• Getting there – It’s right across the Island.
• How long should you stay – 30-60min

2.15pm – Berlin Story Bunker

Get a unique insight into 800 years of Berlin history on a tour through the Berlin Story Bunker. Along with providing a detailed and vast background story, the bunker also houses the largest documentary on Adolf Hitler and his rise to power.

Journey through 30 fascinating, informative, and heartbreaking displays where you’ll learn all about how the Second World War came to be, why the Nazis brought the world to the brink and other prominent events in Berlin’s past!

Walk through the rooms of a real-life war bunker, where the unheard stories of Berlin residents are shared, giving a new understanding to the city’s turbulent past. The tour is also self-guided (with the help of an audio track), so you’ll be able to move through the museum at your own pace and find the exhibits that truly pique your interest.

You’ll also have the chance to see a fantastic miniature model of the entire city where you can track where you’ve been, where you’ll go next, and how this sprawling city fits together.

Insider tip: The tour is quite graphic in parts making it unsuitable for most children.  Keep this in mind if you are particularly sensitive to traumatic images as well.

• Cost – Tickets starts from 13$
• Getting there – Take the S3 from Hackesche Märkte and to Friedrichstraße and change onto the S2

3.30pm  – Berlin Zoological Garden

As the most visited zoo in Europe, the Berlin Zoological Garden has some spectacular habitats, animals, and highlights to show off!

Some of their most famous residents include the giant pandas, hippos, adorable penguins, gorillas, and a polar bear called Knut. The zoo also has some unique feature exhibits including the Eagle canyon- venture past a cascading waterfall and discover the eagle’s world. If you love watching birds as they flutter from tree to tree, the World of Birds canopy trail is perfect!

You can also spot some amazing black and Indian rhinos as well as a herd of red deer! The zoo is also in collaboration with other zoos and research groups to promote healthy breeding programs which safeguard endangered species!

The on-site aquarium is also a must-see, with 3 stories filled with over 9,000 animals from across the world. Stroll through the cool, shimmering hallways where you can see the likes of tropical fish, amphibians, an incredible shark tank, and a host of billowing jellyfish! You can also check out a fascinating ant enclosure where you can watch the little creatures at work.

The aquarium also works hard to promote healthy sea life by including educational features and a display of plastic amongst the incredible marine life.

Insider tip: The joint ticket includes access to the aquarium!

• Cost – USD $18 for adults and USD $10 for children.
• Getting there – Take the M29 bus to Europa-Center
• How long should you stay – You can spend the rest of the day here!

PLUS Berlin

Brilliantly located near the East Side Gallery and nestled between some of Berlin’s prime nightlife spots, PLUS Berlin is one of the best hostels in Berlin!

• 24 Hour Reception

Now that you’ve had a whirlwind weekend in Berlin , it’s time to find out what to do in Berlin in 3 days. From epic markets to trips down the amazing Spree River, you’ll be spoiled for choice when you travel to Berlin!

The end of day three is optional but I’d highly recommend it. Exploring Berlin’s nightlife is a must! It’s one of the biggest and well-known nightlife scenes in Europe and since it’s the last day on our itinerary, you might as well go out with a bang!

9am – Mauerpark

Throughout Berlin, Mauerpark is known as one of the best places to hang out in the city. Built in what used to be a militarized death strip, the lush and fun-filled park is now a social hub in Berlin.

You can enjoy a stroll through the stunning landscape, have a picnic in the birch grove, join in a game of boules or basketball, or watch musicians and performers put on a show in the amphitheatre. Heck, why not do it all?

Get a real feel for Berlin and its community in this gorgeous oasis where you may even get to know some locals! Enjoy snacks and treats from a range of food stalls that set up camp in the park, or browse the many stalls selling artworks, handicrafts and trinkets.

Mauerpark almost feels like a music festival in the summer, when the street performers are in full swing and vendors fill the air with delicious aromas!

I’ve saved the best for last – the park also hosts an open-to-all karaoke fest every second Sunday, which is beyond fun and a great way to connect with the city!

• Getting there – Head to Eberswalder Straße Station with any public transport option.
• How long should you stay – 1-2 hours depending on whether you’re coming for the fleamarket as well

12pm – Berlin Wall Memorial

A visit to Berlin wouldn’t be complete without checking out the Berlin wall – it’s probably THE thing to do in Berlin. Retrace the surviving 3-miles of wall and get transported back to a pivotal moment in recent history. Parts of the wall have been rebuilt, others are exactly how they used to be.

This site is more informative than other museums and will teach you all about the history of the Berlin Wall. It’s the ideal place for history nerds that really want to dig in deep.

The memorial serves as a reminder of the divided city and the victims of communist tyranny, as well as the “Window of Remembrance. You can also find the Chapel of Reconciliation here, along with the exposed foundations of a former apartment house, the façade of which made up part of the Wall until the early 1980s.

• Cost – Free! The museum is 12.50€
• Getting there – Take the M1 tram to U Bernauer Straße.
• How long should you stay – 30-45min

1pm – East Side Gallery

Berlin’s East Side Gallery is one of the most well-known open-air galleries in the world, and with a remarkable history as well!

The incredible gallery consists of a series of murals painted onto the final remnant of the Berlin Wall. As a marker for decades of turmoil, this historic space is now filled with powerful portraits, graffiti and slogans by artists from across the globe!

You can see images like an opened wall filled with a sea of faces, young children being watched over and a curriculum vitae with significant years in the city’s history. You can also spot a giant “Berlin” on one section of the wall alongside other powerful phrases and messages.

While the gallery has been defaced over the years, it remains an icon of change and is definitely deserves a spot on your 3-day Berlin itinerary!

• Getting there – Take the U8 to Jannowitzbrücke and change to the S3 to Berlin Warschauer Straße
• How long should you stay – 45min

2.30pm – Molecule Men at Warschauer Straße

This unexpected and eclectic landmark makes a fun addition to your Berlin itinerary! Stroll along the lanes around Warschauer Straße where you’ll find amazing art galleries, fun bars, and the unreal Molecule Men . This monumental statue stands in position in the middle of Spree River, which used to mark the border between East and West Berlin.

This incredible sculpture forms part of a series of aluminium creations that have been placed around the world. Symbolically, the Molecule Men represent the intersection of the then three districts of Berlin, but they also make for an epic photo opportunity!

The 100-foot-tall statue is quite the sight on its own, but you can also enjoy some spectacular architecture in the area as well as an amazing view of Oberbaum Bridge. Definitely pay this Berlin landmark a visit at night when the bridge and surrounds are bathed in light!

• Getting there – Take the S9 to S Treptower Park
• How long should you stay – 20-30min

4pm – Spree River Boat Trip

Add a fun and fascinating riverboat tour to your 3-day itinerary in Berlin! Enjoy a relaxing cruise through the waters of Spree River as you enjoy the sights and sounds of Berlin!

Learn all about the German capital as you pass by the Federal Chancellery and Bellevue Palace, the official residence of the President of Germany since 1994. You’ll also have the chance to admire the Victory Column which commemorates the Prussian wins in various wars and has become a symbol of unity.

Cruise past Charlottenburg Palace, the Westhafen Canal and the Hamburger Bahnhof, which is a terminal-turned museum that has an impressive collection of contemporary art! Take in the gorgeous views of Berlin as you toast to a fantastic holiday!

• Cost – Starting from $20
• Getting there – Take the S9 to Am Weidendamm 1, 10117 Berlin
• How long should you sta y – The tour takes 1 hour but there are 2.5h tours available as well

9pm until late – Berlin nightlife

You can’t visit Berlin without hearing about the city’s insane nightlife. While it’s not technically a place to visit, there are just too many amazing venues to decide which one is the best. You can get bars, clubs and hidden hotspots all over the city and each of them offers a different vibe. One of the most famous nightclubs is Berghain but there are plenty of other and more unique nightlife places to visit.

Dance the night away until your feet hurt – and then keep going. Go nude at Pornceptual, party through the weekend at Sunday Club, choose from all sorts of music genres at Hoe_Mies or dive into the techno scene at Suicide Circus or Tresor. There are endless options and trust us, you’ll struggle to decide where to go to! It’s the perfect end to a 3-Day Berlin Itinerary!

• Cost – Depends on the club!
• Getting there – Depends on where you want to go!
• How long should you stay – Depends on your endurance!

Stash your cash safely with this money belt. It will keep your valuables safely concealed, no matter where you go.

It looks exactly like a normal belt  except for a SECRET interior pocket perfectly designed to hide a wad of cash, a passport photocopy or anything else you may wish to hide. Never get caught with your pants down again! (Unless you want to…)

When you’re planning a trip to Berlin, it’s a good idea to familiarize yourself with the seasons and get an idea of when to visit Berlin!

The best time to visit the city is between May and October when Berlin is bathed in sunshine and has the perfect weather for checking out the many Berlin attractions. May brings along the blooming of cherry blossoms and is one of the most beautiful months to visit. Keep in mind that many people travel at that time, so it’s important to book your accommodation ahead. Luckily, there are plenty of amazing hostels in Berlin , so you’ll almost always find a comfy place to rest your head.

August and September are especially pleasant months, with the International Berlin Beer Festival as well as the famous Lollapalooza music festival where some epic performances take place! However, the middle of summer does get very humid, so heading to Berlin in early spring or late summer to early autumn is also a fantastic choice!

High season in Berlin is between mid-June to August, during Oktoberfest and, of course, the Christmas season when Berlin is lit in exquisite lights and filled with festivals. You can also experience the city’s legendary Christmas markets during December!

January can get some stunning snow, which makes Berlin even more dreamy and there are some fantastic New Year’s celebrations including food, drinks, and live music along Berlin’s Party Mile.

For the most budget-friendly time to visit, early June is quiet and accommodation prices decrease, while the winter months of November to March are pretty cold and overcast but have some fantastic deals!

It’s no surprise that Berlin is a pretty big city with loads of interesting neighbourhoods. Luckily, you can find a super well developed public transport network spread throughout all parts of the city. The public transport here also makes taking one of the many day trips from Berlin super easy too.

To put that into numbers for you, there are 120 kilometres of tram lines, 473 kilometres of railway track, and more navigable waterways than Amsterdam, Stockholm and even Venice – put together! And Berlin makes good use of it all. Whether it’s by tram, S-Bahn, subway or simple bus system, you can get from A to B within no time.

The public transport in Berlin is straightforward, clean and reliable. It’s also pretty affordable, especially if you opt for taking the bus.

Another great way to get around is to rent a bicycle. There are bike stations spread throughout the city, the most popular ones are Nextbike and Donkey Republic. Both of them are rentable by app which makes it super handy and efficient.

The German capital has one of the highest rates of bicycle commuting in the world, with an average of 710 bicycles owned per 1,000 Berliners. There are plenty of bike paths and dedicated cycle lanes — in fact, there are 620 kilometres of them.

Coming prepared is one of the most important parts of travelling, no matter where you want to go.

Although it’s the largest and most populated city in Germany, Berlin is generally quite safe. However, when you’re traveling to a new city, especially one as large as this, it’s a good idea to follow some tried and tested safety tips .

• Be particularly vigilant in touristy areas like the Kurfürstendamm and Gölitzer Park.
• Public transport is also a hotspot for petty crime, so hold tight to your belongings for any journeys you take.
• It is generally quite safe to walk around popular areas at night, but keep an eye out for dodgy characters.

As you are likely traveling in a foreign country, ensure you have access to emergency numbers in case of an accident or problem. It’s also always a good idea to have travel insurance in the event of a problem. To enjoy your Berlin itinerary to the fullest, keep these travel tips in mind and enjoy safe travels!

ALWAYS sort out your backpacker insurance before your trip. There’s plenty to choose from in that department, but a good place to start is Safety Wing .

They offer month-to-month payments, no lock-in contracts, and require absolutely no itineraries: that’s the exact kind of insurance long-term travellers and digital nomads need.

SafetyWing is cheap, easy, and admin-free: just sign up lickety-split so you can get back to it!

Click the button below to learn more about SafetyWing’s setup or read our insider review for the full tasty scoop.

Find out what people want to know when planning their Berlin itinerary.

How many days should you stay in Berlin?

You can cover a lot of ground in 3 days. However, 4-5 days are ideal if you’re looking to discover more of Berlin’s epic nightlife scene.

What should you include on a 3 day Berlin itinerary?

Don’t miss out on these awesome places: – Brandenburg Gate – Museum Island – East Side Gallery – Holocaust Memorial

Where should you stay for a weekend in Berlin?

If you’re only in Berlin for a short time, finding accommodation in Mitte is your best bet. It’s super central, putting you within easy reach of Berlin’s top attractions and bars.

What are the best day trips from Berlin?

If you’ve got the time, make sure to check out Dresden, the Azalea and Rhododendron Park, Potsdam, or Sachsenhausen Concentration Camp.

When you think about Berlin, it probably brings to mind historical buildings, incredible museums, and an up-and-coming creative scene that has some spectacular things to offer!

There’s incredible variety in Berlin, so it’s the perfect place for every type of traveler. Whether you’re looking for a relaxing holiday filled with leisurely strolls through charming streets, an action-packed European getaway where you’re always looking for something exciting, or a true taste of history – Berlin has everything you could ask for!

Along with top-notch public transport and events galore, Berlin is filled to the brim with landmarks and attractions to explore! Enjoy a stay at world-class accommodation, get a taste for the international cuisine that fills Berlin with flavor, and take your pick from an impressive list of things to do in Berlin.

There’s so much to do on your Berlin itinerary, so jump into this unbelievable city with both feet and enjoy!

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Nomadic Matt's Travel Site

Travel Better, Cheaper, Longer

Berlin Travel Guide

Last Updated: July 29, 2023

Over the past decade, Berlin has become incredibly popular with students, artists, writers, and creatives. They’ve been drawn to the city’s cheap rent and anything-goes spirit. There’s a constant sense of motion in Berlin.

This city is one of the most vibrant on the continent. It’s also huge, so don’t try to see it in just a couple of days. Extend your stay, take your time, rent a bike, and don’t rush. There’s a lot to see.

This travel guide to Berlin can help you plan your trip, save money, and ensure you have an amazing time in this lively metropolis.

Table of Contents

• Things to See and Do
• Typical Costs
• Suggested Budget
• Money-Saving Tips
• Where to Stay
• How to Get Around
• How to Stay Safe
• Best Places to Book Your Trip
• Related Blogs in Berlin

Top 5 Things to See and Do in Berlin

1. Visit the Memorial to the Murdered Jews of Europe

This outdoor memorial is a tribute to the millions of Jews that died during World War II. It’s made up of 2,711 large rectangular stones, which are all different sizes. You can walk between the stones and reflect on the Holocaust and the millions of lives that it claimed.

2. See the Brandenburg Gate

Built in 1791, Brandenburg Gate is the city’s best-known landmark. During the Cold War, the Brandenburg Gate was in no man’s land behind the Berlin Wall. When the Wall fell, everyone came to celebrate here and it has remained a symbol of a unified Germany ever since.

3. See the Berliner Dom

The Berlin Cathedral was originally built in 1905 as a royal court church, but now it’s also a museum and concert hall. While most visitors just stop by for photos, the ornate interior is decked in marble and onyx, with a 7,269-pipe organ and royal sarcophagi. Admission is 9 EUR.

4. Visit the East Side Gallery

This open-air art gallery features 105 paintings by artists from all over the world on a section of the Berlin Wall in Friedrichshain-Kreuzberg. Most of the paintings are political in nature. Signs fill in the history along the way so you can learn about the wall and art too.

5. Hang out in Treptower Park

This park is near an abandoned amusement park. Bike, relax in one of the beer gardens, or rent a boat and paddle down the Spree River. It’s my favorite park in the city. Visit the Inselgarten beer garden with its giant bar swings and random tango classes.

Other Things to See and Do in Berlin

1. hang out in potsdamer platz.

In the 1920s, Potsdamer Platz was the busiest square in Europe but it was destroyed during World War II and then divided by the Berlin Wall. After German reunification, it became the largest building site in Europe. It was transformed into a showpiece for the “new Berlin,” with modern architecture like skyrises, hotels, cinemas, shopping centers, and the massive central plaza.

2. See the famous Reichstag

The seat of the German Parliament is one of Berlin’s most historic landmarks. It has a clear dome (to promote “transparency” in the government) and draws some of the biggest crowds in Berlin. You can visit the dome (it’s free), but you have to make a reservation ahead of time. From the dome, you can enjoy panoramic views over the city and learn about the parliament’s history from the interior exhibitions. (Bring your passport as it’s required for entry!).

3. Enjoy the view from Fernsehturm TV Tower in Alexanderplatz

Germany’s main city square contains the iconic 368-meter-high Fernsehturm TV Tower. You can visit the tower’s observation deck for dazzling views of the city. Tickets start from 25.50 EUR. Otherwise, Alexanderplatz is an exciting hub of activity as people come to shop, eat, and hang out.

4. Tour the German Historical Museum

This museum covers everything from prehistory right up to the present day. There are numerous in-depth exhibits here, so schedule a few hours to see it all. It’s one of my favorite history museums in the world because it is very, very detailed. Highlights include a 3.5-meter-tall coat of arms column from 1486, Napoleon’s hat from the battle of Waterloo in 1815, and a personal computer from East Germany. Admission is 8 EUR. Note: the permanent exhibitions are closed for renovations until 2025. Temporary exhibitions are still accessible.

5. Head to Grunewald Forest

If you are looking to escape from the city, the grand expanse of Berlin’s largest forest is the perfect destination for hiking, picnicking, and biking. On hot summer days, head to Kuhhorn Badestrand, which has a cove and beach where Berliners come to swim and lounge. In the northernmost part of the forest, you’ll find Teufelsberg, a man-made hill standing 120 meters high. You can hike up here for views over the city as well as to see the abandoned tower that was used as a listening station by the US during the Cold War. Admission to Teufelsberg is 8 EUR. Guided tours in English are 15 EUR and take place on Sundays at 3pm.

6. Go to Zoologischer Garten and Aquarium

First opened in 1841, this is Germany’s oldest — and Europe’s most popular — zoo. There are giraffes, elephants, gorillas, and Germany’s only giant pandas, as well as nearly 1,300 other species. The aquarium is equally as impressive and is home to fish, coral, jellyfish, sharks, and more. A combination ticket for the zoo and aquarium is 23 EUR.

7. Visit the Deutsche Kinemathek

More commonly referred to as the Film Museum, this museum hosts festivals throughout the year. However, it’s also worth visiting for its fascinating interactive exhibits on German film. You can learn about German movie history, try out historical filmmaking instruments, explore the ins and outs of cinematic storytelling, watch Nazi propaganda films, and play your own role in front of a green screen in the museum’s studio. The museum theater also offers regular showings of foreign and historic films. Admission to the museum is 9 EUR with a free audio guide available and tickets to see a film are 8 EUR. Entrance is free on the first Sunday of the month.

8. Check out Mauerpark’s market

This enormous flea market is held every Sunday, with vendors selling all sorts of vintage furniture, antiques, artwork, books, and more. Local artists also set up shop to sell their paintings and handicrafts, and there’s no shortage of food and beer to go around. Don’t forget to join the karaoke session in the outdoor theater.

9. Relax in Tempelhof Field

Located in the southern part of the city, this park is actually the site of an old airport that was used during the Berlin Airlift (when the Soviets tried to blockade the city). While the airport closed in 2008 and was transformed into a park, there are still a lot of plaques where you can learn about the old airport. The 951-hectare park is a favorite with Berliners, with lots of people running, working out, and cycling here. In the summer, people take over the barbecue pits. The entrances are open from sunrise to sunset.

10. See the DDR Museum

This museum focuses on life in East Berlin during Communist rule. Exhibits are interactive and divided to cover the various aspects of daily life in East Berlin. There’s even a section dedicated to how the East Germans rebelled against Communist rule by flocking to nude beaches to be “free.” Tickets are 12.50 EUR.

11. Visit Checkpoint Charlie

Dividing Berlin’s most well-known post-war border crossing was Checkpoint Charlie. The original border post on Friedrichstraße between former East and West Berlin remains, complete with a soldier’s post and border crossing sign. The museum has exhibits on the history of the Berlin Wall along with displays about people who attempted to escape to the West. Admission is 14.50 EUR. Audio guides and photo permits are an extra 5 EUR.

12. Take a bike tour

Berlin is a great city to explore by bicycle. There are plenty of themed tours run by operators like Fat Tire Tours that showcase the city, highlighting its history, food, and culture. Prices vary depending on the tour but expect to pay 30-70 EUR per person.

13. Go underground with the Berliner Unterwelten-Museum

This is not a museum in the traditional sense (though there is an exhibition), but rather a guided tour into bunkers, air raid shelters, and tunnel systems beneath the city, in Gesundbrunnen U-Bahnhof. You’ll see East Germany escape tunnels, ammunition findings, and even archaeological treasures. You can also descend into the basement of the BerlinerKindl brewery and sample some of the beers after the tour. Tours cost 15 EUR.

14. Explore the Jewish History Museum

This museum traces the arrival of Jews in Germany, and their contributions throughout German history, hardships faced as a people, and Jewish culture in general. Like most museums in Germany, the museum is huge and requires a few hours to properly explore. It doesn’t go too much depth on the Holocaust, as there is a separate museum for that (The Topography of Terror). Admission is free, with temporary exhibition tickets costing 8 EUR. Due to COVID, they ask that you book a time slot in advance.

15. Visit the Topography of Terror

This museum is on the spot where the SS and the Reich Security Main Office were located during World War II. It documents the terror and horror of the Nazi regime with harrowing video interviews with survivors, historical documents, photographs, and more. It also consists of excavated prison cells that were located under a remaining stretch of the Berlin Wall. Admission is free.

16. Relax in Tiergarten

Berlin’s central park is one of the most beautiful city parks in all of Europe. Founded in 1527 as a private hunting ground for Germany’s ruling class, Tiergarten first opened to the public in 1740. Unfortunately, the park was significantly damaged during World War II; most monuments and bridges were destroyed, thousands of trees were cut down to use for firewood, and war debris piled up. Today, the park covers 520 acres and visitors can visit war monuments, grab a beer in the beer garden, and go out on the lakes in a pedal boat (or ice-skate in the winter).

17. Take a boat tour

The Spree River flows through Berlin, meaning there are lots of canals and waterways on which you can take a boat tour. It’s quite relaxing on a warm day and provides a new perspective of the city. Tours start at 19 EUR for a one-hour cruise.

18. Hang out in Friedrichshain’s Markthalle Neun

If you’ve had your fill of Berliner currywurst and döner kebap and you’re looking for more variety, this huge food hall is a cool place to hang out during the day as it carries fresh produce, deli items, and handmade bread, pasta, and more. There are also various international-themed eateries as well. The regular weekly market is open Tuesday to Sunday until 6pm. Thursdays they have special street food where you can get Tibetan momos, British pies, tacos, Kässpatzen (dumplings with cheese), and more. They even have a selection of craft beer, wines, coffee, and other items to drink.

19. Rent a DDR Trabant Car

At Trabiworld, you can rent one of the old DDR gear shift Trabant cars and take a spin around Berlin on a “Trabi Safari” (the cars were manufactured in East Germany). Cruise around on a planned route by the sites of the East Side Gallery part of the former Berlin Wall. Plus, you even get to keep your “Trabi license” as a souvenir at the end. Rides cost 59 EUR for and last 75 min.

For more information on other cities in Germany, check out these guides:

• Cologne Travel Guide
• Frankfurt Travel Guide
• Munich Travel Guide

Berlin Travel Costs

Hostel prices – Dorms cost 17-25 EUR per night while private rooms for two cost around 45-56 EUR per night. Free Wi-Fi and lockers are standard in all hostels in Berlin. Most hostels also offer free coffee/tea and have a kitchen and bar on site. Only a few hostels offer free breakfast, but many offer a breakfast buffet for an additional 5-8 EUR.

Many hostels also offer bike rentals for 10-15 EUR per day and some offer free walking tours. In a sign of the times, a few hostels even offer free COVID-19 testing.

Budget hotel prices – Budget hotels cost between 50-65 EUR per night. Free Wi-Fi, flat-screen TVs, and private bathrooms are standard, while free breakfast is not. Many hotels offer a breakfast buffet for 8-12 EUR.

Airbnb is available everywhere in Berlin, with private rooms costing about 30-45 EUR per night while full apartments start around 75-100 EUR per night in spring and 50-90 EUR in winter.

Food – Food in Germany is very cheap (and hearty). Meat is a staple of most meals, especially sausages; there are over 1,500 different kinds of sausages in Germany (sausages here are known as “wurst”). Stews are also a popular traditional choice, as are potato dumplings and sauerkraut. Breakfast is usually composed of bread, cold cuts, cheese, and boiled eggs.

Generally, eating out in Berlin is incredibly affordable. Currywurst, kebabs, and quick pizzas are all under 5.50 EUR. For the best kebabs, go to Mustafas. You’ll get a filling, delicious meal for around 5 EUR.

Eating out at one of the many Indian, Thai, or Turkish restaurants is the cheapest way to enjoy a sit-down meal in Berlin. A lunch meal at a Vietnamese restaurant is about 5.50 EUR while a main dish at an Indian restaurant is around 6.50-9 EUR.

For more cheap eats, check out Thai Park (Preußen Park). During the summer, Thai locals come to the park to cook up delicious and affordable Thai food. It started as just a small Thai community gathering but now it’s a huge food market with awesome eats for under 10 EUR.

At fast-casual eateries, a plate of schnitzel is around 6-8 EUR, pizza is 8-10 EUR, and a burger is 5-8 EUR. A combo meal at McDonald’s costs 9 EUR.

Expect to pay around 35 EUR for dinner for two. A meal at a higher-end restaurant costs about 15-17 EUR for a pasta entree, while a steak is around 23 EUR.

For drinks, a beer costs about 4 EUR at any bar or beer garden, a glass of wine is around 4.50 EUR, a cocktail is 7-10 EUR, and a cappuccino is 3.50 EUR.

Some of my favorite places to eat are Mustafa’s Gemuse Kebap, Konnopke’s Imbiss, Cocolo Ramen, Burgeramt, Markthalle Neun, MOM’S, and Nah am Wasser.

If you cook for yourself, you can spend as little as 45-50 EUR on groceries per week. This gets you basic staples like bread, eggs, rice or pasta, seasonal produce, and some meat. The cheapest places are Lidl, Penny, Netto, and Aldi.

Backpacking Berlin Suggested Budgets

If you’re backpacking Berlin, expect to spend about 55 EUR per day. This assumes you’re staying in a hostel, limiting your drinking, cooking all your meals, using public transportation to get around, and doing mostly free activities like walking tours and relaxing in the parks.

On a mid-range budget of 110 EUR per day, you can stay in a private Airbnb room, eat out for a few meals, rent a bike to get around or take the occasional taxi, enjoy a couple of drinks, and visit more attractions, such as the Berliner Dom or the Reichstag.

On a “luxury” budget of 200 EUR per day or more, you can stay in a budget hotel, eat out for all your meals, drink as much as you want, take taxis to get around, and do all the tours you want! This is just the ground floor for luxury though. The sky is the limit!

You can use the chart below to get some idea of how much you need to budget daily, depending on your travel style. Keep in mind these are daily averages — some days you’ll spend more, some days you’ll spend less (you might spend less every day). We just want to give you a general idea of how to make your budget. Prices are in EUR.

Berlin Travel Guide: Money-Saving Tips

Berlin is an incredibly affordable city, which is why so many people try to move here. You can easily visit the city on a budget without doing much work. Things just don’t cost a lot of money unless you try to splash out. If you want to save even more money, here’s how to cut costs in Berlin:

• Use your student card – Student ID cards can come in handy to purchase meals, drinks, accommodation, and visit museums at a discount. Always ask if there is a student discount.
• Eat the street food – Berlin’s street food scene is epic. There is a currywurst stand or fast-food stall on every corner, especially around markets and parks. You can get filling sausages and burgers for just a few euros, especially at busy places like Mauerpark, Markthalle Neun, and the Turkish Market.
• Eat Asian/Turkish food – You can get a kebab or falafel for as little as 3 EUR. On weekends, Thai Park (at Preußen Park) offers the best cheap Thai food outside of Thailand!
• Take a free walking tour – New Europe Tours run daily walking tours that cover the main highlights. They also run tours around various historic themes (communism, Nazism, Jewish history, etc.) for great low prices, if you have a more specific interest. You can also take the Alternative Berlin tour, which showcases the artsy side of Berlin.
• Get the lunch specials – There are lunchtime specials during the week in Oranienburgerstr. For example, you can get a starter and main course in very nice restaurants for around 6 EUR. It’s a great deal if you want to eat out.
• Stay at a hostel that includes breakfast – If you want to cut costs, stay at one of the city’s hostels that includes breakfast. You can expect different kinds of fresh bread, müesli, cheeses, cold cuts (like ham, turkey, and salami), maybe a boiled egg, and fresh fruit and coffee. It’s filling and will save you money.
• Get a transportation pass – A day ticket with unlimited travel in city center zones costs 8.80 EUR, and a week pass is 36 EUR — much cheaper than paying per ride. You can use your tickets across the train, tram, and bus network, saving you a fortune if you plan on seeing a lot of the city.
• Get the Berlin Welcome Card – The Berlin Welcome Card offers free public transportation, discounts on over 200 attractions, and free entry into many of the paid museums. It can be a good deal if you’re going to a lot of museums. A two-day card is 24 EUR, while a three-day card is 39 EUR. You can get a card for up to six days for 50 EUR.
• Grab a beer on the go – You can enjoy a beer just about anywhere in Berlin. Pick up a large beer from the supermarket or Späti (a corner store) for as little as 0.80 EUR and head to the park to lounge the day away.
• Stay with a local – If you want to cut down your travel costs while also getting some local insight into the city, use Couchsurfing. Not only will you save money but you’ll meet locals who can help get you off the beaten path. Since Berlin is a popular city, be sure to send your requests in advance (especially in the summer!).
• Bring a water bottle – The tap water here is safe to drink so bring a reusable water bottle to save money and reduce your plastic use. LifeStraw is my go-to brand as their bottles have built-in filters to ensure your water is always clean and safe.

Where to Stay in Berlin

Berlin has hostels all over the city, so it’s really a matter of finding a neighborhood that suits you best. These are my suggested and recommended places to stay in Berlin:

• Meininger Berlin Tiergarten
• Heart of Gold Hostel
• Circus Hostel
• EastSeven Berlin Hostel
• Pfefferbett Hostel
• Minimal Hostel Berlin
• St. Christopher’s

How to Get Around Berlin

Public transportation – Berlin is a sprawling city, but it’s incredibly well connected by its subway (U-Bahn) and above-ground train system (S-Bahn). You can even get to the outlying neighborhoods quickly. A single ticket is 3 EUR and is good for up to 90 minutes. If you’re outside the AB zone, the ticket price increases. For example, a ticket to Brandenburg Airport is 3.80 EUR.

You can purchase tickets on the platform or via the BVG app. Always keep your ticket on you as random checks on the train are common.

A day ticket with unlimited travel in Zones AB (Berlin city proper) costs 8.80 EUR, and a week pass is 36 EUR. You can use your tickets across the train, tram, and bus network, but be sure to check your route ahead of time.

There are a handful of tram lines around Berlin’s central neighborhoods, but they’re not as fast or efficient as the trains. Ticket prices are the same as the train.

There are also over one hundred bus lines around Berlin that get you anywhere you need to go, especially on weeknights after the trains shut down. Ticket prices are the same as the trains and trams.

Bicycle – Berlin is incredibly easy to cycle around, with well-marked bicycle lanes. Most bicycle rentals start at 5 EUR per day. Bike-sharing programs like Donkey Republic, nextbike and Call a Bike offer rentals for 1 EUR per 30 minutes or 9 EUR for the day. Nextbike also offers day passes for 3 EUR with which you get the first 30 minutes of each rental free. A week pass offering the same is 15 EUR.

Taxi – Taxis are not cheap here, but you’ll rarely need to use one. The base rate is 4 EUR, and it’s an additional 2 EUR per kilometer afterward. Skip them if you can.

Ridesharing – Uber is available in Berlin, but you shouldn’t need to use it much, if at all, as the public transportation here is fast and reliable.

Car rental – Car rentals start at 30 EUR per day for a multi-day rental, however, you won’t need one unless you’re leaving the city. Even then, the bus and train system can likely get you where you need to go for cheaper. Renters need to be at least 21 years old.

When to Go to Berlin

Spring and summer are peak seasons in Berlin (especially May-September). The whole city comes alive as people get out to enjoy temperatures in the 30s°C (high 80s°F). This is really when Berlin’s parks and markets come alive so I’d try to visit during this time if you can. Just book your accommodation in advance.

While winters are dark and cold with temperatures dropping to 0°C (32°F), Berlin doesn’t get a lot of snowfall and the Christmas season is magical — mostly due to the city’s many Christmas markets. You avoid the tourist crowds during this time as well.

How to Stay Safe in Berlin

Berlin is pretty safe, but like all big cities, there is petty crime (such as pickpocketing). Be careful on busy public transit and around crowded tourist attractions, especially in Alexanderplatz. ATM scams are unfortunately also a problem here. Whenever possible, withdraw money from inside a bank where you know there are security cameras and/or guards.

Violent crime is rare but avoid certain areas of town like Kottbusser Tor, Görlitzer Park, Neukölln, and Volkspark Hasenheide after dark if you’re traveling alone. The area around Warschauer Straße station is a natural nightlife hub where ridiculously drunk people always end up. Be mindful of your whereabouts and your belongings, as this place is a hotspot for pickpocketing and sometimes even assault.

It’s no secret that drugs are big in Berlin. Much of the drug exchange happens at Kottbusser Tor – if you’re walking through here, do so with caution.

When out at the bar, always keep an eye on your drink and never leave it unattended. Additionally, never walk home alone if intoxicated, especially if leaving a club late at night.

If you’re worried about getting scammed you can read about common travel scams to avoid here.

If you experience an emergency, dial 112 for assistance.

The most important piece of advice I can offer is to purchase good travel insurance. Travel insurance will protect you against illness, injury, theft, and cancellations. It’s comprehensive protection in case anything goes wrong. I never go on a trip without it as I’ve had to use it many times in the past.

Berlin Travel Guide: The Best Booking Resources

These are my favorite companies to use when I travel. They consistently have the best deals, offer world-class customer service and great value, and overall, are better than their competitors. They are the companies I use the most and are always the starting point in my search for travel deals.

• Skyscanner – Skyscanner is my favorite flight search engine. They search small websites and budget airlines that larger search sites tend to miss. They are hands down the number one place to start.
• Hostelworld – This is the best hostel accommodation site out there with the largest inventory, best search interface, and widest availability.
• Booking.com – The best all around booking site that constantly provides the cheapest and lowest rates. They have the widest selection of budget accommodation. In all my tests, they’ve always had the cheapest rates out of all the booking websites.
• HostelPass – This new card gives you up to 20% off hostels throughout Europe. It’s a great way to save money. They’re constantly adding new hostels too. I’ve always wanted something like this and glad it finallt exists.
• Get Your Guide – Get Your Guide is a huge online marketplace for tours and excursions. They have tons of tour options available in cities all around the world, including everything from cooking classes, walking tours, street art lessons, and more!
• The Man in Seat 61 – This website is the ultimate guide to train travel anywhere in the world. They have the most comprehensive information on routes, times, prices, and train conditions. If you are planning a long train journey or some epic train trip, consult this site.
• Rome2Rio – This website allows you to see how to get from point A to point B the best and cheapest way possible. It will give you all the bus, train, plane, or boat routes that can get you there as well as how much they cost.
• FlixBus – Flixbus has routes between 20 European countries with prices starting as low 5 EUR! Their buses include WiFi, electrical outlets, a free checked bag.
• SafetyWing – Safety Wing offers convenient and affordable plans tailored to digital nomads and long-term travelers. They have cheap monthly plans, great customer service, and an easy-to-use claims process that makes it perfect for those on the road.
• LifeStraw – My go-to company for reusable water bottles with built-in filters so you can ensure your drinking water is always clean and safe.
• Unbound Merino – They make lightweight, durable, easy-to-clean travel clothing.
• Top Travel Credit Cards – Points are the best way to cut down travel expenses. Here’s my favorite point earning credit cards so you can get free travel!
• BlaBlaCar – BlaBlaCar is a ridesharing website that lets you share rides with vetted local drivers by pitching in for gas. You simply request a seat, they approve, and off you go! It’s a cheaper and more interesting way to travel than by bus or train!

Berlin Travel Guide: Related Articles

Want more info? Check out all the articles I’ve written on backpacking/traveling Germany and continue planning your trip:

Where to Stay in Berlin: The Best Neighborhoods for Your Visit

How to Survive Oktoberfest

The 18 Best Things To Do in Berlin

Munich is Better than Berlin

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17 Best Things To In Berlin, Germany

A first-time visit to Berlin is bound to be an absolutely incredible experience, filled with an eclectic mix of history, culture and gorgeous sights, it’s a city that intrigues yet embraces us visitors with open arms.

Whether you’re going for a long weekend, a week or even months, it’s likely you’ll be scrambling for time to catch all the places in this vibrant city… especially if you keep stopping for a cheeky currywurst (and a tipple or two)! 😉

Just like other German cities  like Hamburg and Cologne , Berlin has a pretty diverse mix of sights that you must see on your first visit with a hefty proportion being included in Germany’s Top 100 sights to see.

With that in mind, take a look at some of the very best sights you’ll want to include on your first visit to Berlin.

1.) Stroll through Brandenburg Gate

Brandenburg Gate is one of Germany’s best-known landmarks that you’ll no doubt want to see. Historically, an old city gate, Brandenburg Gate was rebuilt around 250 years ago and still stands proudly today.

Famous as a point for major historical events, it’s a great spot to see when visiting the Reichstag that’s close by.

Also, for a leisurely sightseeing tour, book this ticket for a sightseeing cruise around Berlin .

These particular tickets offer guaranteed seating, which means you won’t be waiting around or standing for long periods of time. It’s such a great tour.

Book: Berlin sightseeing cruise tickets

2.) Visit the glass dome of The Reichstag

The Reichstag is not only home to the German Government but also home to one of the most impressive glass domes in all the world!

Open to the public, you can head inside the dome and enjoy the incredible building (and views) from the top. Make sure to book these tickets well in advance for a tour around the whole Government District, Chancellery, and Reichstag. 

3.) Experience the glorious Berlin Cathedral

Perched on Museum Island, Berlin Cathedral is one awe-inspiring place to visit.

The grand history and incredible architecture is jaw-droppingly beautiful and well worth a gander at.

Make sure to spend some time in the main Cathedral before heading downstairs to learn more about the crypts and history of this incredible building.

4.) Learn about reintroduction programs at Berlin Zoo

More than just a zoo, Berlin Zoo helps educate, collaborate and maintains reintroduction programs for some of the most endangered species across the world.

Head here to learn more about the valuable work they do and the breeding programs that help in supporting endangered animals.

Also, be sure to book some of these epic Berlin tours, below; especially before you arrive in the city. This way, you won’t be scrambling for tickets and can maximise your time exploring the epicness that is Berlin. 

5.) Discover art at the East Side Gallery  

Premised as an international memorial for freedom, this massive stretch of the Berlin Wall has been commissioned, featuring over 100 different paintings from artists all across the world, including the colourful  Some heads by Thierry Noir.

Stroll the length of the 1.3km section to admire artists’ works, just take a good pair of walking shoes with you.

That being said, you can also book this epic bike tour around Berlin’s best places to visit. It’s an incredible tour around the Mitte district, Checkpoint Charlie, Museum Island and so many more spots. It’s amazing. 

Just make sure to book tickets in advance, they are small group tours and they do fill up fast!

Book: Berlin bike tour around the best spots in the city

6.) Explore Berlin’s Museum Island

No visit to Berlin is complete without a visit to this UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Hop over to the island that sits in the middle of the River Spree to see some of the best museums in the world.

Make sure to visit the Atles Museum and the Bode Museum for some incredible artefacts.

If all that walking works up an appetite, check out our complete list of amazing burger joints that are close by, right here .

7.) Remember at the Holocaust Memorial 

Head to the Holocaust Memorial to reflect upon the horrendous mistakes of history.

The creator, Eisenman created this space for visitors to feel uneasy and confusing space where no order cannot be found.

Opened over 10 years ago, it’s a place to ponder and remember the terrible acts of the Holocaust.

Read more: our visit to the Holocaust Memorial

8.) Wander around Charlottenburg Palace

Officially, the largest palace in Berlin, Charlottenburg Palace was originally built over 300 years ago.

Around 15-20 minutes from the bustling centre of Berlin, the palace is a great place to wander, especially through the gardens.

Make sure to visit the Tea House and the Orangery in the palace gardens, they really are spectacular.

9.) See the president’s home, Bellevue Palace

Whether you get to visit the inside or not, Bellevue Palace is a grand sight to see whilst in Berlin.

Based on the edges of Großer Tiergarten (Berlin’s oldest and largest park), it’s well worth a little gander.

10.) Take a look at Checkpoint Charlie

Checkpoint Charlie was the most famous crossing point between East and West Germany during the time of the Berlin Wall. Nowadays, the checkpoint has been redeveloped to show how it once stood.

If you want to see the original building head to The Allied Museum for a more intimate look.

11.) Grab some bubbles and Currywurst at the Berlin TV Tower

Book these tickets and scale to the top of the Berlin TV Tower for some impressive 360-degree views of the city or even for a little brunch.

If you’re planning a visit in the late afternoon or early evening, you can also enjoy bubbles and Currywurst whilst overlooking the city.

Just be sure to book these queue jump tickets to the top of the TV tower before arriving. You’ll get straight to the top and miss those long queues that happen at peak times. 

Book: Queue jump tickets to the top of the TV tower

12.) Gorge on the diverse foods of the city

One of the best things about Berlin is the varied and diverse mix of foody delights that are around every corner, you can literally have any type of food that your heart (or tummy) desires.

Make sure to try something you haven’t tried before. For me, this was Israeli Food when we ate at the delicious, Djimalaya .

Make sure to try their Hummus plates and falafel balls. Yum!

Oh, and if you’ve got time, book this guided boat tour of Potsdam to see the beauty of the palaces just outside Berlin itself. We totally loved Potsdam and it’s an essential place to include when visiting the best places in Berlin. 

Book: Guided boat tour of Potsdam

13.) Head inside the French Cathedral

The French Cathedral is, arguably, one of the prettiest buildings in Berlin.

Head inside for a wander around the building, whilst stopping for a bite to eat in the basement halls. Most people don’t realise that the Cathedral also houses The Huguenot Museum in the tower itself.

14.) Climb to the top of the Victory Column

If you’re feeling pretty fit, or just want to burn off all those currywurst calories, then take the almost 300 steps to the top of the Victory Column.

Nearly 200 years old, the column offers some pretty epic views across the city.

15.) See inside the New Church 

The New Church sits directly opposite the French Cathedral on the opposite side of the square.

Head inside for a closer look at the gorgeous architecture and plan a trip to coincide with one of the many events and markets that operate within the Gendarmenmarkt beside the church.

16.) Watch a show at Konzert Haus

If you’re looking to find some of the city’s world-renowned culture and art, then make sure you pop into Konzert Haus, where some of the world’s best ballet, opera and German music and theatre is held.

Tickets can be booked online and I’d definitely advise this if you’re wanting to visit.

17.) See the Kaiser Wilhelm Memorial Church

Built well over 100 years ago, the Kaiser Wilhelm Memorial Church was heavily destroyed during World War II.

Fondly known as ‘the hollow tooth’ the spire and tower of the church still stand in its destroyed state; a testament and memory to the awful tragedies of war.

Make sure to visit the old and new church that now occupy the site.

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17 Fun (And Affordable) Things to Do in Berlin in Winter

This year, I’ll be going into my 7th Berlin Winter as a resident of this city. And even though I can’t say it’s my favorite season in the city (that would be Spring!), I still especially look forward to the December in Berlin. What’s more idyllic than sipping mulled wine, wrapped up in a parka, and seeing a European city decked in Christmas lights?

In this post, I’m going to share my favorite things to do in Berlin in Winter, as well as tips for how to get around the city, and what to expect from the weather (and answers to popular questions like: does Berlin get snow??).

This post has been updated for Winter 2021-2022. All the activities, tours, and events are scheduled for this Winter season so enjoy!

Weather in Berlin in Winter

I’m not going to sugar coat it: Berlin is gray in Winter. You’ll get 1-2 sunny days roughly every two weeks, and by the time December rolls around, the sun sets around 4:00-4:30PM. That means the best thing you can do is wake up early to enjoy the light and start your day right! As for average temperatures, here are a few to keep in mind:

• Berlin in December - 39º / 31ºF (4º / -1ºC). Generally you will not see much if any snow in Berlin during December, although sometimes you do get lucky and see snow while the Christmas markets are running! Otherwise, Berlin does have Winter rain for about 10 days out of the month of December. So bringing an umbrella is not a bad idea, and do make sure your winter boots are waterproof!
• Berlin in January - 37º / 29ºF (3º / -2ºC). January is a bit of an odd time to visit Berlin, as most of the Christmas markets have closed and the city is slowly starting to open up again after all the holiday closures. January is when we start to have a chance at snow 😄
• Berlin in February - 40° / 29°F (5º / -2ºC). February is generally the coldest month in Berlin, and I’ve seen lows as low as 10ºF (-12ºC). Usually that just lasts for about 2 very cold weeks, until we go back to “normal cold” that lasts through April. Berlin can also be quite windy, so make sure you have wind-proof layers for that ultra cold stretch!

If I were to make a recommendation, visiting Berlin in December is the best time to do it thanks to all the holiday activities. That said, there’s a lot to do in the city besides Christmas markets and there is something pretty special about Berlin covered in a layer of powdery snow ❄️

Where to stay in Berlin in Winter

The most important thing when choosing accommodation in Berlin, especially during Winter, is selecting a hotel that is close to a subway station. When it’s cold at night or even raining, the last thing you want to do is be waiting for a notoriously late bus, or walking long distances against strong wind.

My hotel recommendation in Berlin’s city center is The Circus Hotel which has tons going for it: awesome location at Rosenthaler Platz with excellent food and restaurants nearby, connected to the U8 subway, and the floor-level breakfast spot called Commonground is one of the best brunch locations in Berlin in its own right.

If you’re on a tighter budget, just across the street is their sister property, The Circus Hostel . Possibly the top-rated hostel in Berlin, it is often booked out so be sure to reserve in advance.

Learn about the best areas to stay in Berlin, whether you're a first-time visitor or a veteran. This Berlin neighborhood guide demystifies how to decide where to stay in Berlin, based on my experience living in Berlin for over five years!

17 fun things to do in Berlin in Winter

Besides this post, I’ve got way more content about Berlin you should definitely check out, such as my ultimate guide to things to do in Berlin and my hand-crafted-with-love Berlin itinerary for 2 days . Both are complete resources for planning a trip to Berlin, in addition to the seasonal information I’ve shared below.

Without further ado, here are my favorite things to do in Berlin in Winter that won’t break the bank.

1. Take a tour of Germany’s parliament building, the Reichstag

During World War II, Germany’s parliament building, called the Reichstag , was destroyed by bombs dropped by allied forces. During the reconstruction afterwards, the Germans rebuilt the building with a glass dome that you can visit today and look out over Berlin’s biggest park, called Tiergarten.

Taking my little sister to the Reichstag like a good Berliner

Today, the German Parliament is easily considered one of the must-do tourist activities, especially if you’re into history or politics. Whenever I have guests in Berlin, I always make sure to help them book in advance for visiting the Reichstag! Too many times, I’ve seen people procrastinate and then all the spots are gone.

During the peak season, you need to book at least a month in advance. During the off season, I still recommend giving yourself at least 2 weeks. A lot of people come to Berlin in December for the Christmas season!

Keep reading for instructions on how to reserve a timeslot to visit the Reichstag in Berlin.

See all those little people walking around in the glass dome? That could be you!

Entry is free for a self-guided walk about if you do it in advance through the German government . An alternative is to take a guided tour in English for an explanation of history of the building (which is pretty interesting itself), and they’ll take care of the reservation for you – which is also important if you procrastinated too long and all the pre-allocated slots are gone! Usually a specific number of slots are reserved by tour companies so they can help all the last-minute visitors 😉

If you are already in Berlin, chances are you will need to visit through a tour company.

Click here to check availability for English-language guided tours of the Reichstag. Unless you’re already a German history buff, a guided tour will help you appreciate the history of the building and the country more regardless. It’s also super affordable.

2. Go on a Trabi Safari

While you’re feeling nostalgic, try a tour of the city in a Trabi , the iconic car produced during the communist era in the former East Germany.

For 75 minutes, you and up to 3 friends can putz around Berlin in this hilarious car. The way it works is that you drive around and get live radio commentary from the guide, while groups of people in Trabis drive around and see Berlin’s most famous sights.

You get to see Potsdamer Platz, Brandenburg Gate, Berlin Cathedral, the TV tower, East Side Gallery (where the Berlin Wall is), and a number of other locations.

Driving a Trabi is seriously a blast from the past before the reunification of Germany. Do note, you need to be able to drive a manual transmission car!

Click here to check availability for Trabi Safari rides during your visit.

3. Visit the Christmas markets

Berlin has over 60 Christmas markets scattered through the city. If you’re in Berlin in December, you’ll probably run into a few without even trying. However, some of the best markets are only open for a very specific time period so be sure to read my post on Berlin’s best Christmas markets , which I’ve just updated for 2021!

The Christmas Market at Charlottenburg Palace is considered one of the most beautiful in Berlin

If you’re not familiar with the concept of Christmas markets, it’s a European tradition where cities all over the continent have small markets that set up during the Christmas season.

Usually they sell the local variation of mulled wine, traditional seasonal foods, and gifts and trinkets you can buy for your friends and family. The stalls are usually decorated in an old-timey way, like wooden buildings from centuries past.

It feels a little like an anachronism, and that’s what makes it fun!

The best Christmas markets in Berlin are waiting for you to find them! Here's a complete guide to Christmas markets in Berlin, updated for 2021: where to find them, their specialties, and how to come prepared.

4. Visit Berlin’s arguably most famous museum: Pergamon and the Asisi Panorama

So, Berlin has a TON of museums and if you’re experiencing bad weather during your visit, holing up in museums is a great way to pass the time. Especially when it comes to archaeology, Berlin has a leg up because of how industrious the Germans were during the turn of the century.

Of course this also means they have a lot of great artifacts that should prooooobably be returned to the countries they originated in, but we’re not going to touch on that 😉

Easily the most popular spot to visit museums in Berlin is Museum Island , a literal island in the middle of the Spree River which houses 5 museums. You could spend a day or more hopping between them, and use this convenient Berlin museum pass to do it.

But if you have to pick just one museum , my top recommendation would definitely be the Pergamon Museum . Why, you might ask?

Because unlike just about any other museum, the Pergamon has life-sized reconstructions of historical places which you can walk through, such as a Roman Market and the Gates of Ishtar from Babylon. And by reconstructions, I mean they took the original pieces from wherever they were, and re-built them inside this giant museum in Berlin . I don’t know anywhere else in the world where something like this exists 😱

Click here to reserve tickets for the Pergamon Museum and Asisi panorama, Berlin’s world renowned archaeology museum. It’s literally the coolest.

5. Visit the Berlin Christmas Garden

At the Berlin Botanical Garden, which runs from November 19, 2021 - January 9th, 2022 , you can see the garden decked completely in Christmas lights. The door open open every day at 4:30PM (remember, that’s when I told you it gets DARK), and it lasts until 10PM every night.

Besides walking around and admiring the light show, you can go ice skating or eat some typical German foods at the Botanical Garden’s restaurant. I’m a huuuge fan of visiting Botanical Gardens when I travel, and even though it seems a little odd to visit one in the middle of Winter, clearly Berlin has found a way around that.

During the week, you can book flexible tickets to the Christmas Garden, but during the weekend you’ll need to book a timed slot in advance. You can find tickets on the website .

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6. Taking a walking tour (just dress warm!)

A walking tour is an AMAZING idea, especially if you can manage to do it on a day with sunshine! Which is a rarity in Berlin during Winter, but that’s what makes it precious.

The most important sights I’d recommend visiting by foot include the Brandenburg Gate, the Berlin Cathedral (pictured below), Museum Island (mentioned above), the Reichstag (also mentioned above), the Victory Column, as well as Gendarmenmarkt. Especially if it’s your first time in Berlin, getting into those top sights is an important part of having the “Berlin Experience”.

If you’d like to add some history and commentary to your experience, check out this super highly-rated Berlin Top 20 Sightseeing Tour which visits all the spots I mentioned above as well as Berlin’s Old Town, the Nikolaiviertel. Seeing the top 20 sights in 3 hours is possible because so many are placed close together, you just have to know where to go 😉

7. See a show at the Friedrichstadt Palast

Berlin’s Friedrichstadt Palast is the world’s biggest theatre stage, and the ARISE Grand Show is one of the most popular things to do in Berlin regardless of the season. It’s an international-level considered on-par with the kind you’d see in Las Vegas.

Luckily for visitors who don’t speak German , ARISE is also free of dialog, which makes it one of the few shows you can watch without having an extra audio guide on hand. You might be surprised but even for an international city, Berlin has a lot of German-only activities.

This venue is conveniently located next to one of the main stations in Berlin, making it ultra easy to reach even if Berlin’s weather isn’t on your side! I used to work across the street from this venue and can vouch that it is extremely popular year round.

Click here to check availability for tickets to the ARISE Grand Show at Friedrichstadt Palast.

8. Go for a tour inside a former airport commissioned by Hitler

Did you know that Hitler once commissioned an enormous airport, with enough space to hold events with ONE MILLION spectators…but never once set foot inside?

This fascinating, now defunct airport, is worth visiting for a number of reasons. First, you’ll learn about the architecture and how it was designed. Then you’ll also learn the history of how it was used during World War II, see the underground bunkers that families used to hide in during aerial raids, and also how it was used by the Americans during the Cold War to bring supplies to Soviet-surrounded West Berlin.

My boyfriend and I loved the tour of the airport – it was even led by an architecture student who had really great insights on how Hitler personally influenced the design of the airport. The exact tour I can recommend you try out is Berlin Tempelhof Airport: The Legend of Tempelhof Tour !

9. See the Berlin Wall at the East Side Gallery

You may or may not know, there are numerous places in Berlin where you can see pieces of the Berlin Wall. After all, the Wall ran through the entire city. However, if you’re looking for something more impressive, be sure to check out the kilometer-long East Side Gallery . It’s the best place in the city to see the Wall, in tact, and covered with famous art you’ve probably seen in movies or on postcards.

Whatever you do: Do not see the Berlin wall at Checkpoint Charlie or at Potsdamer Platz. They are not comparable, if you’re really interested in seeing massive stretches of the wall. Those are just small pieces 😉

Visiting the East Side Gallery is free, but if you want to learn more about the history of Germany, the Wall, and the art that covers it today, you can book a Berlin Wall guided tour at a seriously reasonable price.

10. Visit one of Berlin’s best craft beer bars

While one of my favorite things to do with visitors is take them to one of my favorite beer gardens in Berlin , those shut down at the end of Summer. So what’s a beer fan to do in the midst of Winter when you want to taste some of that famous German brew?

If you ask me – head to a craft beer bar!

While you can get a “typical” German beer at just about any restaurant, in just the last couple of years, Berlin’s craft beer movement has made strides to catch up to the United States. Now any Germans reading this will scoff and say that American beer is terrible – which it is if you’re purposefully treating Bud Light as though it’s indicative of ALL American beer *AHEM* – but in fact, Germany has only recently started to get more experimental and create beers that depart from the typical brews they’ve been making for centuries.

Here are a couple of my favorite craft beer bars in Berlin: Hopfenreich (located in Kreuzberg), Kaschk (located in Mitte, as mentioned above), and Markthalle IX (at the Heidenpeters, located in Kreuzberg).

10. Do your Christmas shopping at Europe’s largest department store, Kaufhaus des Westens

Remember how I said that Berlin has the largest theatre, which is the Friedrichstadt Palast? Here’s another thing that’s the biggest in Berlin: Europe’s largest department store . Ok I just learned in researching this article that Harrod’s in London has ousted it from the top spot. But this department store is still pretty damn big.

Here are some mind-blowing stats about Kaufhaus des Westens (also known as KaDeWe):

• 40,000-50,000 shoppers pass through
• 380,000 individual articles are on sale
• 60,000 square meters
• It’s 8 floors, including one dedicated to international food
• The top floor includes a winter garden with a 1,000-seat restaurant
• Since 2015 it’s been owned by a Thailand-based department store conglomerate 🤔

Most of what you’ll find in here is quite high-end and expensive, but if you’re on the hunt for a killer cashmere sweater to take home with you – this is the fanciest place in Berlin to do that!

11. Eat some heavy German food

Mmmm especially in Winter, is there anything better than breaded meat, potatoes, and washing it down with beer? No? I didn’t think so either. And even though Berlin isn’t in Southern Germany, where certain “famous” German dishes have originated, you can still find pockets of fantastic German food in Berlin. You just need to know where to look.

Take a look at my post on where to eat German food in Berlin for specific tips on my favorite places for German food, whether it’s your standard Schnitzel or something you’ve surely never had before.

12. View a Berlin decked in Christmas lights from the top of the TV tower

Known as the Fernsehturm in German, Berlin’s TV Tower is arguably tied for its most famous landmark. It’s Berlin’s tallest structure and the easiest way to orient yourself from just about anywhere in the city. What’s awesome is you can take a lift to the very top to look out over Berlin, and if you plan ahead you can even get a window seat at the Panorama Restaurant.

A Berlin-based tour company called GetYourGuide provides skip-the-line tickets for the TV Tower so you can avoid a long wait in the cold. Wouldn’t you love to ride to the top and look out over dozens of sparkling Christmas markets all over the city 😄

13. Get your photo taken in front of Oberbaumbrücke

Some more landmarks to cover here – right next to the East Side Gallery, you’ll find Oberbaumbrücke . It’s less frequented because it’s not as close to the city center as some of the other tourist sights, but especially if you can get a bit of light on it, it’s a gorgeous red bridge with prominent turrets.

Once you see the bridge, be sure to cross and head to the corner pictured below for one of the best spots to get your photo taken with the bridge. If you’re a big photography fan, check out my related post on the best photography spots in Berlin .

14. Cozy up in one of Berlin’s incredible third-wave coffee shops

I remember when I first moved to Germany, trying to drink the coffee was a battle. First there was no such thing as iced coffee (AKA 50% of my blood content in Summer) and the idea of not drinking something that’d be kept on a burner for three hours just didn’t seem to have reached the country yet.

Fast forward a few years and Berlin’s coffee scene is booming. There are at least a dozen fabulous places for coffee all over the city, many of which also sell beans you can take home and grind and brew for yourself!

Here are a couple of my favorite coffee joints in Berlin: Five Elephant (locations in Mitte and Kreuzberg), 19 grams (locations near Alexanderplatz and Chausseestrasse), and Chapter One (located in Kreuzberg).

15. Attend one of the most famous international film festivals, the Berlinale

The Berlin International Film festival happens every February. And while it might not be quite as famous as Cannes, it’s considered one of the top three international film festivals in the world. It was originally founded in West Berlin in 1951, and welcomes celebrities and film buffs every single year.

You can learn more about Berlinale in preparation for the 2020 edition on the Berlinale official website . At the time of writing, the 2020 programme isn’t up yet but keep checking back if you’re down for watching some unique films and documentaries during your trip!

16. See a movie at the Sony Center at Potsdamer Platz, location of Europe’s largest screen

Last of the “Berlin is the biggest” in this post, here you can actually see a movie on the largest screen in Europe. Did you know you wanted that? Now you do. You can see movies in IMAX, 3d IMAX, as well as “normal” (if anyone does that these days?). Like a typical movie theatre, the cost for eating popcorn and drinking liquid sugar is absurdly high, but it’s a great way to kill some time.

Another thing that makes the Sony Center special to me is the fact that you can see movies here IN ENGLISH. WITHOUT SUBTITLES. This is a biiiiig deal if you’re an expat living in Europe!

One thing to note: In cinemas like the Sony Center, you need to reserve a specific seat in advance. Make sure you do that on the website in advance , or just show up earlier in the day to buy your tickets in person. I can’t find out if it’s possible to translate the website to English, but generally the people at the front desk will be able to help you 😉

In case you’re wondering, we saw Black Panther

17. Take a winter day trip from Berlin

While I love Berlin, there are other places you can visit in Germany with slightly more to offer when it comes to typical winter activities and, well, snow . Here are the top places I’d recommend visiting around Berlin during the Winter season as day trips.

• Dresden, Germany – Dresden is a beautiful city and the capital of the German state of Saxony. If you’re looking for even more beautiful Christmas markets, Dresden is famous for them, in addition to its architecture.
• Potsdam, Germany – Potsdam is the home of the “Versailles of Berlin”, a famous palace with open grounds you can walk and look especially idyllic in snow. Walking the grounds is free, but visiting the elaborate interior comes at an extra cost.
• Sachsenhausen Nazi Concentration Camp Memorial – Sachsenhausen is located just a 30-minute train ride outside of Berlin, and is one of the most notorious concentration camps the Nazis built during their reign. Visiting a place like this is very heavy, but worthwhile to complete your picture of all the things have happened here. While I’m not sure this falls under the “fun” title of this blog post, I still felt it was worth sharing.

Are you excited to visit Berlin during Winter?

Let me know how your trip goes, and if you discover any new activities I ought to add to my Berlin Winter travel guide!

About the author

Hi there! I'm Monica, an American expat living in Germany for over six years and using every opportunity to explore the world from my homebase in Berlin. My goal is to capture my memories in photos and posts that show how easy it is to start from scratch and travel the world by working abroad.

Follow along on Instagram , Twitter , Bloglovin , & Facebook .

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Here is a list of the 10 best travel blog posts about Berlin for your trip in 2021.

Did you know that Berlin is home to 3 UNESCO world heritage sites! The Museum Island, Sansoussi Palace and Parks in Potsdam, and the Modernism Housing Estates. On top of that,  it is considered by many as Germany`s greenest city with over 44% of its area made of waterways, woods, rivers, and green areas. If that’s not enough to convince you to give this beautiful city a visit, then the following blog posts will do the trick. We picked out the best 10 blogs about Berlin with the most useful and engaging content.

Plan your trip to Berlin

All the below-mentioned bloggers have provided an amazing guide on what to do and see while visiting berlin. don’t let your bags hold you back from experiencing milan from the moment you arrive until the moment you depart. store your bags with one of our luggage storage in +50 locations around berlin ..

In every case that made our list, the usefulness of their tips or their great content has convinced us to include them. In the list, you will find talented photographers, skilled writers, wanderlust addicts, foodies, and family travelers. All of which have something to offer and help make your trip to Berlin truly amazing.

Our picks for top Berlin blogs are more than welcome to put the following code on their website to use the badge and share their nomination with their own readers!

<p><a href=”https://luggagehero.com/best-travel-blogs-berlin/”><img src=”https://4ba1rb1hcqqe3bl4de2xe0t1-wpengine.netdna-ssl.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/02/luggagehero_top-travel-blog_2020_berlin.png” alt=”top travel bloggers badge” width=”210″ height=”210″ srcset=”https://4ba1rb1hcqqe3bl4de2xe0t1-wpengine.netdna-ssl.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/02/luggagehero_top-travel-blog_2020_berlin.png 210w, https://4ba1rb1hcqqe3bl4de2xe0t1-wpengine.netdna-ssl.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/02/luggagehero_top-travel-blog_2020_berlin-160×160.png 160w, https://4ba1rb1hcqqe3bl4de2xe0t1-wpengine.netdna-ssl.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/02/luggagehero_top-travel-blog_2020_berlin-150×150.png 150w” sizes=”(max-width: 210px) 100vw, 210px” class=”aligncenter size-full wp-image-15442″></a></p>

The 10 blogs that made the final cut have been selected based on 3 criteria:

• Quality of the content
• The practicality of the tips and advice
• Originality

Check out our picks below 👇

1. TwoBadTourists

Auston and David, the minds behind TwoBadTourists, met in 2006. Together they traveled the world, visiting more than 35 countries, to finally land in Spain, and they never left! TwoBadTourists is the perfect blog for LGBT travelers, focused on international gay-friendly destinations.

The blog post that grabbed our attention is about gay Berlin the best gay hotels, bars, blues, and more. In the post, TwoBadTourists combined great ideas on where to go in Berlin, that are gay-friendly. You will find a comprehensive list of different places to go and have fun, hotels, and places to stay, and a throughout guide on how to get transport from the airport and around the city. Check their article to find the best things to do in Berlin!

2. Becky the traveler

If you’re going to Berlin for only 2-3 days then this is the perfect itinerary for you to check out. Becky Angell has now been to 40 countries on 6 continents! Solo travel is the main type of travel she takes up as it gives her the freedom she needs to get the most out of her trips.

The blog post we want to share is one that contains a 2-3 day itinerary for what to do on your trip to Berlin. Her blog post saves you all the hard work and allows for you to just sit back, read and mark what you’re interested in for your 2-3 day trip. Her itinerary even provides you with walking time estimations so that you can really get all the information you need straight from her post.

3. Dreams in heels

Dreams in Heels by Olga Maria caters to all types of adventurous souls, including those who are already exploring the world or even those who plan to travel (even on a budget) in the future. If you have a bucket list and a desire to see amazing places, then you can take a sneak peek into extravagant and indigenous cultures, people and lifestyles through her blog.

Her post offers Berlin insider tips for those of you visiting Berlin, Germany for the first time! As a Berlin local, Becky has lived there full-time for over a year. She’s created a local guide with Berlin insider tips, the top things to do (must-see/dos), what food you must try, and more. She also warns that after reading the whole post you may feel the urge to visit Berlin immediately and we agree with her!

4. Jetsetting Fools – one life, one world.

Sarah and Kris became full-time globetrotters in April 2014 and they plan to continue traveling the world into the foreseeable future. For their readers, they provide travel stories, information, advice, and tips on sights and walking tours, but also include off-the-beaten-path adventures, history, and culture along the way.

The post we picked is a 3-day Berlin itinerary. Sarah and Kris understand how overwhelming planning a trip to Berlin can be – so they’re helping us by sharing a detailed Berlin 3-Day Itinerary. The itinerary is ideal for first-timers to Berlin who want to see as much of the city as possible – even on limited time, and it includes everything you need to plan your trip!

5. Miss Tourist

Yulia, or also known as Miss Tourist, originally from Russia has been traveling full time for the past 5 years. Her mission is to inspire you to travel more and give some valuable practical tips about each destination to help you get the most out of every destination you visit.

The blog post to mention is about the 5 best neighborhoods to stay in Berlin (and the best hotel recommendations for each of them). The city of Berlin is a unique mixture of cultures and ideas and is one of few cities that has a couple of city centers to stay in. The districts and neighborhoods in Berlin can be a bit confusing, which is why Yulia gives you her recommendations on where to stay in Berlin, with great hotels for each area, all sorted by price for your convenience.

6. Big World Small Pockets

Steph describes herself as a travel addict – never one for staying at home and working for too long, she’s always had to make sure she can travel cheap to fund her nomadic lifestyle. In addition, Big World Small Pockets was created to share with all of us the highs and lows of solo female budget travel – “the sort of real, wild, global adventuring that fires up minds and sets hearts racing”.

Steph offers a guide on 10 unmissable things to do in Berlin on a budget. If you’re heading to the German capital anytime soon, but haven’t got a lot of cash to spend, you need to check out her suggestions right away.

7. Happiness and Things

Silke is actually a Berlin travel blogger and writer, book author, and translator for the travel industry. Happiness and Things today is a travel blog that focuses on the things that Silke loves most about travel. She wants to share with us all the most amazing landscapes, vibrant cities, and unforgettable moments that you can have anywhere in the world.

Her Berlin travel blog offers extensive information on everything there is to see and do in Berlin or tips if you only have 3 days in Berlin, and Berlin with kids, 100 free things to do in Berlin, and also a complete Berlin survival guide. By checking out her post, you can be sure that you will know and have everything you need for your trip.

8. The Poor Traveler

The goal of The poor traveler’s writers is to build FREE travel guides, where they can share their experiences and whatever lessons they pick up along the way.

“This blog is for the poor travelers out there — the newbies, the first-timers, the lost and confused, the shy and socially awkward, and those who can’t afford to make costly mistakes.”

Their Berlin travel guide – budget itinerary  has all information you need to explore Berlin fully without breaking the bank. Furthermore, The guide covers a wide variety of questions every traveler has from what to do in Berlin, how to get to Berlin, things to do in Berlin to how to apply for a German visa. Everything you need in one place!

9. Divergent Travelers

David and Lina Stock are a married couple from NW Wisconsin who have been traveling together since 2001. They have visited nearly 100 countries on all 7 continents! Lina works in the IT department at a prominent Midwest bank and David working as the Sales Director for a large outdoor manufacturer. Despite that, they still find time to travel the world and explore it!

They give us the ultimate 3 days Berlin travel itinerary. Apart from giving you things to do each day and make the most of it, the post also provides readers with ideas on where to stay, where to eat, and a guide to Berlin travel planning. Day one starts by exploring some of the most historic sights within Mitte, the city center. Check out their full post for the rest of the itinerary.

10. A broken backpack

The Broken Backpack Travel Blog, written by Melissa Giroux, is all about long-term travel – from super cheap trips to luxury travel. Melissa is a Canadian travel blogger, who started her journey in June 2014.

Her blog post 17 Fun And Free Things To Do In Berlin offers everything you need for an unforgettable stay in this beautiful city. Also, it includes cheap and even free tips. Like how to enjoy the city, free places to visit and stuff to do as well. Melissa considers Berlin one of the best cities in the world and it shows in her writing.

“I feel a sting of jealousy every time somebody mentions they’re going there—or worse, moving to this beautiful city”. Check out her tips that will surely wrap up your trip to Berlin and make sure you get the best out of it.

Travel Buddies Lifestyle

Luxury Travel Blog

Travel Blogger-Is it worth visiting the ITB in Berlin?

• April 1, 2024

Our first visit to the ITB in Berlin

Table of Contents

We had already planned to visit the expo last year, but unfortunately, due to scheduling issues, we could not make it. However, for ITB Berline, 2024, we planned more in advance.

We didn’t know what to expect from ITB in Berlin, particularly as travel journalists attending the world’s largest tourism trade fair, and therefore, we started searching the Internet for more information. We found very limited information and hardly any useful blogs; many articles were also outdated. For this reason, we thought of summarising our experiences of ITB in an article that will be useful to anyone considering to attend next year.

What is the ITB?

The abbreviation ITB stands for International Tourism Exchange, which has been held regularly in Berlin since 1966 and is considered the world’s largest trade fair for tourism. Countries, cities, regions, tour operators, booking portals, hotels and other tourism-related service providers participate in the ITB. This trade fair is aimed at traders and was not open to the public in 2024. In previous years, the public was allowed to attend at the weekend. With a total of 5,639 exhibitors, Oman was the sponsor country this year.

ITB is important not only for exhibitors and travel companies but also for professional travel bloggers and journalists who are becoming key roleplayers in the travel industry. Here, you have the opportunity to find potential collaboration partners or get inspiration for upcoming trips. Representatives from hotels, tourism agencies and other relevant players in the travel industry can be found at the trade fair stands. It is advisable to make appointments in advance to ensure that you can meet with one of the company’s representatives. More on this in a later section.

Read now how appointments work.

Where does the ITB take place?

The ITB is held at Messe Berlin in the west of Berlin, more precisely in Charlottenburg-Wilmersdorf. Messe Berlin has 26 interconnected halls and offers 190,000 m² of exhibition space.

How do I get to Messe Berlin?

The easiest way to get to Messe Berlin is to use public transport. It is about a 10-minute walk from the Messe Nord S-Bahn stop to the North Entrance, while it is only 5 minutes from the Messe Süd S-Bahn stop to the South Entrance.

For those travelling by car, there are limited parking spaces available at the exhibition grounds. Alternatively, there are numerous paid car parks near the exhibition centre.

Preparing for ITB Berlin

If you want to visit ITB as a blogger, travel journalist or influencer, there are a few things you should do in advance.

Hotel booking

There’s always something going on in Berlin. When there is also a trade fair, hotel prices skyrocket, and affordable rooms become limited. It is therefore advisable to book your accommodation well in advance.

As we also wanted to take the opportunity to explore the city, we opted for a hotel in the centre of Berlin. Thanks to the excellent S-Bahn and U-Bahn network, it was no problem for us to get to the exhibition centre on time in the morning.

Tickets for ITB Berlin

On the ITB Berlin website , you will find an overview of the various admission tickets for ITB. In 2024, a day ticket for trade visitors cost 49 euros, a permanent ticket for trade visitors 75 euros and a ticket for digital participation 35 euros. Ticket sales for ITB 2025 will open in December 2024.

Accreditation for ITB Berlin

You can also apply for accreditation on the ITB website , whereby certain requirements must be met. Your blog must be related to travel, have been active for at least six months, and new articles must be published regularly. When applying, you need to include a link to your travel blog and provide proof of the number of readers on your website, among other things. Bernie and I both received accreditation for the 2024 trade fair and could benefit from the many advantages of accreditation.

The ITB App

The first thing you should do is download the ITB app to your smartphone. From the app, you can find exhibitors that interest you, apply for meetings with them, and reach other users on the app.

We highly recommend that you start making appointments with the exhibitors relevant to you as early as possible, as some of the most popular partners are fully booked in no time. However, don’t be disheartened if not everyone responds to your requests. You may find that not all exhibitors are interested in meeting with bloggers or influencers. Nevertheless, we were very excited to receive many good meetings.

How do the appointments work?

The appointments usually last between 15 and 30 minutes. Due to the size of the exhibition centre, you can only attend one appointment in an hour unless the appointments take place in the same hall or a neighbouring hall. It is advisable to be well prepared for the interview, as time flies by faster than you think. Don’t forget to hand over your business card. It is often possible to meet representatives at their stands without an appointment or even handing over your business card.

What is the quickest way to get to my next appointment?

There is a shuttle service at the exhibition centre with three lines that will take you to the various halls. The shuttle service works extremely well, and we used it many times.

Where can I hang out between appointments?

If you have time between your appointments or are tired from walking around the halls, you can relax in the Blogger Base, where you can meet other bloggers or work on your laptop or mobile phone. As noted previously, in 2024, Oman was the partner country of the exhibition and invited all bloggers to a get-together in the Blogger Base.

If you have press accreditation, you can also access the Media Centre. Workstations are available here, and you have the opportunity to charge your electronic devices. We didn’t manage to visit the media centre as our days were so packed with appointments.

Catering during the ITB

There are a few cafés between the halls that also offer snacks, but the tables there are usually occupied. There are food trucks in Hall 7.2c, and there are seating options. However, it would be best if you allowed plenty of time at lunchtime as there are massive crowds. We had to wait over half an hour before we received our meal. We will definitely stock up on food and drinks for our next visit.

What you should have with you when visiting the ITB

• comfortable shoes, because the grounds are huge
• business cards
• snacks and drinks.

Experience Berlin during the ITB

While in Berlin, you should take the time to visit some of the most important sights. These include the Brandenburg Gate, Checkpoint Charlie, Museum Island, the Reichstag and Hackesche Höfe.

Berlin also offers plenty of culinary delights. Our absolute favourite during our stay was the restaurant Kink in the Prenzlauer Berg district.

Visit our Instagram page to find out more about the other iconic places we visited in Berlin.

The highlight of our trip was lunch at the Adlon Kempinski , one of the most iconic hotels in the world. The Adlon Hotel is within a few steps from the Brandenberg Gate. It is customary to order a currywurst with gold leaf. For 26 Euros, it was definitely the best currywurst we ever had. And if you’re not keen on savouring sausages, we can highly recommend the hotel’s signature cakes.

Good to know: The staff is very welcoming, which is often not the case in hotels of this calibre.

Ich danke euch für diese wundervollen Eindrücke vom ganzem Herzen ❤️ Ich schätze Eure Mühe und Zeit sehr DANKE

Vielen lieben Dank, Angrid. Es freut uns, dass dir unser Beitrag über deine Heimatstadt gefallen hat.

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About author.

Petra Top is a dynamic freelance travel journalist hailing from Altusried, Germany, who expertly balances her roles as a Motorsport enthusiast, translator, author, and social media strategist. Her expert skill set includes web designing, multilingual communications, and photography, enriched by notable memberships in international travel and food writers' organisations. Petra's life philosophy—"I travel not to escape life, but for life not to escape me"—captivates her audience, reflecting her passion for exploration and sustainable innovation at Travel Buddies Lifestyle.

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Semester Abroad, Global Correspondents 5 Little Things I Love About Berlin

Basic page sidebar menu penn abroad, may 2, 2024 by leo biehl, cas '25.

Leo ,   one of the Semester Abroad  Global Correspondents , shares his experience abroad during the Spring 2024 semester. Follow along with the group of correspondents on our  blog  and look out for their images on the  @pennabroad  Instagram feed.

Berlin is an amazing city, with one of the best public transit systems in the world and some of the most creative uses of urban space (i.e. techno clubs in converted power plants, cafés in abandoned buses). But what has made my month-and-a-half here special have been the little things in my kiez (neighborhood) that I know I’ll miss when I’m gone. Here are five of them:

1. My afternoon walk to Vatan Bäckerei

Enter Vatan, a Turkish bakery directly down the street from my apartment that sells warm loaves of Fladenbrot for just 1.10 €. It’s the perfect companion for a bite of hummus, an avocado toast, or an infusion of carbs before a long night out. Most days after class, I stop by on my way home from the U-Bahn to buy a loaf that inevitably only lasts the night. 

2. Watching Bayern Munich games with fellow fans

Being a Bayern fan doesn’t exactly make me the most popular person in Berlin. It’s like being a Patriots fan in Philly; Bayern is the most successful team in Germany and has won a record number of Bundesliga titles. But that’s how I was raised (my dad is a lifelong fan) and luckily, I’ve found a good crowd of fellow fans at the local pub to watch with. There, I can wear my jersey with pride and cheer on my team.

Last week, I went to Plötzensee, a nearby lake, for a bike ride with a friend. Within 15 minutes of arriving, a stranger was helping us fish out the money we had accidentally and idiotically dropped in a sidewalk grate. 30 minutes later, we were sharing tea with the same person by the water, and soon after, we were tossing a frisbee with another elderly German man who’d stopped by to chat. That’s the magic of Plötzensee, where I plan to spend my summer swimming and meeting more fun people.

4. Student Tickets (+ the museums)

5. The (non-German) food 

As a German myself, I feel qualified to say that German food doesn’t exactly excite the palate. But that’s far from a problem in Berlin, where it’s easier to find Turkish lahmacun, Sudanese-style falafel (the peanut sauce <3), Chinese hand-pulled noodles, and Vietnamese bánh xèo than traditional German fare. But of course, there’s still room to indulge in a currywurst or spätzle when you’re really craving it.

The Semester Abroad (SA) program offers undergraduate students the opportunity to study in a new global community through extended study for a semester or year. Penn Abroad partners with top institutions around the globe and collaborates with Penn’s undergraduate schools to offer programs for students across academic disciplines.

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