Choose from 113 Fun Things to Do in Berlin
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Berlin Dungeon
The Berlin Dungeon takes visitors on an hour-long journey through the city’s dark history, from the Middle Ages through the 19th century. While exploring the 2,500 square meters of the Dungeon, you will experience the thin line between humor and terror thanks to the various areas with different themes based on real events in Berlin's history, as well as nine different shows performed in both German and English by live actors.
Gripping storytelling, special effects and rides bring the history to life in a way that's both funny and scary. You'll meet characters from Berlin's past, such as twisted Monk Pater Roderich and infamous serial killer Carl Grossmann. Experience a river raft ride, the Elevator of Doom, the Labyrinth of the Lost, the deadly plague in Kloster Strasse, the fearsome torture chamber and the legend of the White Lady. The Berlin Dungeon occasionally has special events for certain holidays, like Halloween and Christmas.
Practical Info
The Berlin Dungeon is located at Spandauer Straße 2 in Berlin Mitte, between Hackeschen Markt and Alexander Platz. Opening hours are from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. daily most of the year. Tickets are 20 euros at the door.
Address: Spandauer Straße 2, Berlin, Germany
Hours: 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. daily most of the year.
Admission: 20 Euros at the door
From $ 19
AquaDom & SEA LIFE Berlin
AquaDom & Sea Life Berlin is an interactive aquarium with more than 5,000 underwater creatures and 37 displays. Ride an elevator through the AquaDom—a massive free-standing fish tank holding 264,172 gallons (1 million liters) of saltwater—and see animals such as giant Pacific octopus, manta rays, and sharks in the aquarium’s exhibits.
The Basics
Visit Sea Life Berlin with skip-the-line tickets to save time, and see a feeding-time demonstration at the massive AquaDom tank. You can also stop by the aquarium on a hop-on, hop-off city tour or experience Berlin’s top kid-friendly destinations with a combo ticket to Sea Life Berlin along with Legoland Discovery Centre Berlin, Madame Tussauds wax museum, Little Big City, and the Berlin Dungeon.
Things to Know Before You Go
- AquaDom & Sea Life Berlin is a must-see for families with kids.
- Most visitors spend one to two hours exploring the aquarium.
- A number of restaurants and coffee shops can be found near the aquarium.
How to Get There
AquaDom & Sea Life Berlin is located in Berlin Mitte, the city’s central borough, and is easy to reach by public transit. The U-Bahn (lines 2, 5, and 8) and S-Bahn both stop at nearby Alexanderplatz station, and many buses and trams are convenient to the aquarium. The attraction’s central location makes it a good jumping-off point for visiting popular sites such as the Brandenburg Gate (Brandenburger Tor), Alexanderplatz, and Museum Island (Museumsinsel).
When to Get There
The aquarium is open daily and you can visit year-round. To avoid crowds, go on a weekday or opt for an early morning or late afternoon visit. If you would like to watch animal feeding demonstrations, check the schedule prior to your visit.
Exhibits at Sea Life Berlin
Stop by the Octopus Garden to see the giant Pacific octopus along with related species such as cuttlefish and nautilus. At the Interactive Rockpool, you can learn about animals that live in rocky coastal areas and touch creatures such as sea stars and crabs. In the Atlantic Ocean exhibit, watch sharks swim among schools of wreckfish and eagle rays.
Address: Spandauer Strasse 3, Berlin, Germany
Admission: Varies
From $ 15
Berlin Cathedral (Berliner Dom)
The imposing Berlin Cathedral dominates the eastern end of Unter den Linden and Museum Island. With its three copper-roofed domes and richly decorated interior with gilded decorations, Berliner Dom (as it’s called in German) is one of the few landmark buildings in the area that was not destroyed in World War II.
The Basics
Berlin Cathedral was finished in 1905, although there has been a church on this site since the 1500s. At the time of construction, the neo-Renaissance structure was considered the Protestant equivalent to St. Peter’s Basilica in Vatican City, and was the parish church of the Prussian royal family—some of whom are interred in the Hohenzollern crypt under the church. The interior is highly decorative, with carved walls, gilt edges, and large-scale paintings; one of the cathedral’s most famous works is the marble and onyx altar by Friedrich August Stüler. Many visitors come to marvel at the enormous domed ceiling, which you can climb for panoramic views of the area. There is also an on-site museum that details the church’s construction.
Many guided bus and walking tours of the city visit the cathedral, sightseeing cruises pass by its facade, and hop-on hop-off tours stop here. Entry is via paid ticket, which is covered by a Berlin Pass. Self-guided audio tours are available, and 20-minute guided tours are included with the entry fee; special organ tours and demonstrations are for an additional fee.
Things to Know Before You Go
- The Berlin Cathedral is a must-visit for religious architecture enthusiasts and first-time visitors to the city.
- Look for the American-made elevator, installed at the wish of Kaiser Wilhelm II when the cathedral was built.
- The church is accessible for wheelchair users.
How to Get There
Berlin Cathedral is located on Museum Island in the Mitte district. The nearest S-Bahn station is Hackescher Markt.
When to Get There
The cathedral is open daily for visits and guided tours. Visitors are not permitted to enter during church services unless they are attending the service.
Unter den Linden
A stroll along the tree-lined Unter den Linden is a must for first-time visitors to Berlin. The shady boulevard draws locals and travelers alike to its cafés and restaurants, and in the evening the illuminated trees create a romantic atmosphere. Many of the city’s top attractions and monuments, including the State Opera House and German Historical Museum, are found here.
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Address: Am Lustgarten, Berlin 10178, Germany
Admission: Varies
From $ 17
Berlin Hauptbahnhof
Commissioned by Chancellor Angela Merkel and opened in 2006, Berlin’s central railway station was built atop the former East German station as a symbol of a reunited Germany. The five-story work of glass and steel serves up to 350,000 passengers per day and is one of the most well-connected train stations in the country.
The Basics
Spend any time at all in Berlin, and chances are you’ll find yourself at the travel hub of Berlin Hauptbahnhof. Due to the history of the old station, it features on many Cold War–themed city tours, and it’s a stop on nearly every Berlin hop-on hop-off tour, most of which also cruise by the Berlin Wall and Tränenpalast. You can also admire the architecture from the outside on a Berlin Segway tour along the riverfront or on a guided sightseeing cruise.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Hauptbahnhof is a must-see for first-time visitors and architecture buffs.
- Lockers are available in the train station parking lot, just outside the main building.
- Visitors get 30 minutes of free Wi-Fi service.
- Berlin Hauptbahnhof is wheelchair accessible.
How to Get There
Berlin Hauptbahnhof is connected by high-speed rail to major cities throughout Europe and is a stop on S-Bahn and U-Bahn lines. The station is about a five-minute walk from Berlin’s famous Brandenburg Gate.
When to Get There
Berlin’s central station is open daily from early in the morning until late at night. To best appreciate the architecture of the structure (and for the best photos), plan to visit during the day when light is shining down through the arched glass roof.
Architectural Inspiration of Berlin Hauptbahnhof
German architectural firm Gerkan, Marg and Partners was tasked with designing Berlin Hauptbahnhof in 1993. The designers took inspiration from the existing lines of railway track, translating them onto the large glass roof.
Address: Europaplatz 1, Berlin, Germany
From $ 25
Bode Museum
As one of five museums on Museum Island, the Bode Museum, formerly the Kaiser- Friedrich Museum, houses three separate collections of sculptures and treasures: the Museum of Byzantine Art (art from the West-Roman and Byzantine Empires from the 3rd to the 15th century), the sculpture collection (sculptures from the Early Middle Ages to the late 18th century), and the Numismatic Collection (coin cabinet). The cabinet is complemented by a gallery specifically for children. The museum, which opened in 1904 was renovated in 2006.
The Bode Museum’s architecture is impressive. In order to achieve the appearance of a building rising from water the architect arranged the three-winged building around several interior courtyards so that the exterior facades immediately bordered the banks of the river Spree. A dominating dome and two opulent staircases give the building the appearance of being stately. Seen from the water, the museum gives the impression of a gigantic ship above the waterline.
In the summer, the shore on the other side is a popular place for people to meet each other and hang out.
The Bode Museum’s architecture is impressive. In order to achieve the appearance of a building rising from water the architect arranged the three-winged building around several interior courtyards so that the exterior facades immediately bordered the banks of the river Spree. A dominating dome and two opulent staircases give the building the appearance of being stately. Seen from the water, the museum gives the impression of a gigantic ship above the waterline.
In the summer, the shore on the other side is a popular place for people to meet each other and hang out.
Address: Am Kupfergraben 1, Berlin 10117, Germany
Hours: Open Tue-Wed, Fri-Sun 10am - 6pm; Thu 10am - 8pm. Closed Mondays.
Admission: Adult: 10 EUR, Discounted: 5 EUR
From $ 23
Charlottenburg Palace (Schloss Charlottenburg)
To experience the majesty of Germany’s Hohenzollern Dynasty, visit Berlin’s Charlottenburg Palace (Schloss Charlottenburg). Built in the 17th century as a royal summer residence, the palace combines rococo and baroque decor and architecture, while the grounds feature a formal garden modeled after the Gardens of Versailles, a belvedere building showcasing German porcelain, a theater, and a mausoleum of royal marble tombs. Aside from palace tours, the site’s evening concerts are the main draw.
The Basics
The palace interior offers an extravaganza of opulence—in the Old Palace, you’ll find the Oak Gallery, King Friedrich I’s bedchamber, the royal apartments of Queen Louise, the Oval Hall, and the Porcelain Cabinet, while the New Wing (Neuer Flugel), added by Friederich the Great, features the Golden Gallery (Goldene Galerie) ballroom and the Silver Vault’s collection of tableware. The Charlottenburg Palace Park is also open to the public and famous for its tree-lined gardens, the Belvedere tea house with its extensive porcelain collection, and the neoclassical mausoleum, housing Queen Louise.
Various palace sites require various fees, but all-encompassing palace tickets are available. The palace is seen from afar on most Berlin city sightseeing tours, but you can get a closer look by purchasing tickets to explore the interior independently or visiting the Grosse Orangery for an evening concert featuring classical performances from the Berlin Residence Orchestra (Berliner Residenz Orchester) dressed in baroque costumes. Book a concert with a 3-course dinner for the full experience, and opt for VIP tickets to receive a glass of sparkling wine at intermission.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Allot two to three hours to explore the palace’s main attractions.
- The site’s restored Kleine Orangery now operates as the Palace Garden Cafe.
- Much of the palace grounds are wheelchair accessible.
- The gardens are free to enter.
- Admission to the New Wing includes an audio guide.
- Concerts at the Orangery typically sell out weeks in advance; book well in advance to secure your tickets.
How to Get There
Charlottenburg Palace is in inner-city west Berlin. From Alexanderplatz, take the S5 or S7 on the S-Bahn rail system to Zoologischer Garten, then switch to the U12 and get off at Sophie-Charlotte-Platz, the closest public transit stop. From there, it is a 15-minute walk to the palace.
When to Get There
The palace is open 10am to 5pm November through March and until 6pm April through October; it is closed on Mondays. During the holidays, the palace houses a Christmas market with stalls offering arts, crafts, and traditional sweets. Winter also brings special holiday concerts for Christmas, New Year’s Eve, and New Year’s Day. The outdoor gardens make an excellent place to stroll and picnic during summer.
Address: Spandauer Damm, Berlin 14059, Germany
Hours: Apr - Oct: Tues - Sun 10am - 6pm; Nov - Mar Tues - Sun 10am - 5pm. Closed Mondays
Admission: €17
From $ 16
Deutscher Dom
The Deutscher Dom, or German Cathedral in English, was built in the early 1700s in Berlin and was originally known as the Neue Kirche, or New Church. The church was badly damaged during World War II and was slowly rebuilt in the 80s and 90s. Today it is a museum and no longer holds religious services. The permanent exhibition on display is called "Wege - Irrwege - Umwege" which roughly translates to “Paths - Meanderings - Detours” and explains the historical development of the liberal parliamentary system in Germany.
The museum focuses on periods of history when the foundations were laid for political order in the Federal Republic of Germany. The exhibits are on five floors and include displays, documents, photographs, and time lines. These exhibits provide visitors with an detailed look at the parliamentary decision making process as well as the functions and methods of the representative bodies. By visiting this museum, visitors will gain insight into the work done by the German political parties.
Practical Info
The Deutscher Dom is located at Gendarmenmarkt 1. To get there take the U2 to Hausvogteiplatz or Stadtmitte, or the U6 to Stadtmitte. Opening hours are October to April: Tuesday to Sunday and public holidays 10am to 6pm; May to September: Tuesday to Sunday and public holidays 10am to 7pm. Admission is free.
Address: Gendarmenmarkt 1, Berlin 10117, Germany
Hours: October to April: Tue-Sun and public holidays 10am-6pm; May to September:Tue-Sun and public holidays 10am-7pm
From $ 45
Brandenburg Gate (Brandenburger Tor)
The grand gateway to Unter den Linden Boulevard and Tiergarten Park, the Brandenburg Gate (Brandenburger Tor) is one of Berlin’s most recognizable landmarks. Built by Prussian kings, this monumental gate stood strong through World War I and the Cold War, becoming a symbol of reunified Germany and a poignant reminder of Berlin’s tragedies and triumphs.
The Basics
No Berlin tour is complete without a glimpse of the Brandenburg Gate. Whether you choose to explore Berlin on a walking tour, on a bike tour, by Segway, or in a Trabant vintage car, you’ll surely stop to snap a photo by this iconic landmark. There are tours to suit all preferences—small-group and private tours that offer a more personalized experience; Berlin Wall and Third Reich tours that offer a greater insight into Berlin’s history; and hop-on hop-off bus tours for those who want to discover Berlin at their own pace.
Things to Know Before You Go
- The tourist information center at the Brandenburg Gate has free Wi-Fi.
- The Brandenburg Gate and many surrounding attractions are wheelchair accessible.
How to Get There
The Brandenburg Gate is located on the historic square of Pariser Platz in West Berlin, at the western end of Unter den Linden Boulevard and bordering the eastern entrance to Tiergarten Park. The closest subway station is Brandenburger Tor. Monuments such as the Holocaust Memorial and the Reichstag building are within easy walking distance.
When to Get There
As one of the most popular Berlin attractions, the Brandenburg Gate is often surrounded by crowds, especially during the busy months of July and August. Visit after dark to see the monument lit up by dramatic spotlights, or stop by in the early morning to avoid the crush of tourists or grab a rare photograph of the gate without crowds. The Brandenburg Gate is also an important part of annual events such as the October Berlin Lights Festival, Berlin’s holiday illuminations, and the city’s New Year’s Eve celebrations.
The Historic Importance of the Brandenburg Gate
Built in 1791 in a neoclassical style, the Brandenburg Gate is the last of Berlin’s original city gates. Originally commissioned by Prussian King Frederick William II, the monument took center stage years later during the Cold War, when it was located in an exclusion zone on the Soviet side and inaccessible to residents of both East and West Berlin. After the fall of the Berlin Wall, it was heralded as a symbol of unified Berlin, with huge crowds gathering to celebrate its monumental reopening.
Address: Am Pariser Platz, Berlin 10117, Germany
Admission: Free
From $ 16
Currywurst Museum
Few foods are more iconic than the German fast food sausage dish, Currywurst. Steamed, then fried pork sausage is seasoned with spicy curry ketchup, then served up with a side of crisp and golden French fries. And while this regional dish can be found on just about any street corner in Berlin, it’s the Currywurst Museum located in this eclectic city that really tells the story of this popular treat.
Travelers can wander through galleries dedicated to this fine food and learn about its inception back in the 1940s, as well as how this local dish was made famous in movies, television, music and pop culture. The interactive nature of Currywurst Museum means visitors can taste, touch and smell just about everything. And of course, there’s plenty of opportunity to sample these spicy dogs, too.
Practical Info
The Currywurst Museum is located near Checkpoint Charlie in Berlin. It is accessible via the U-Bahn, bus and S-Bahn. It is open from 10 a.m. until 6p.m. daily. Tickets are 11 euro for adults and 8.5 euro for students and seniors.
Address: Schützenstraße 70, Berlin, Germany
Hours: Daily, 10 a.m. until 6 p.m.
Admission: 11 euro for adults; 8.5 euro for students and seniors
From $ 16
Berggruen Museum
A few years after the Berlin Wall came down, the director of Berlin museums made an offer to art lover Heinz Berggruen to display his collection in a vacant building now known as the Berggruen Museum, one of the most important museums of modern art in Berlin.
Berggruen's impressive collection of Pablo Picasso's work includes more than 120 pieces. It is a broad collection ranging from Picasso's early work as a teenager in the late 1800s and pieces from his cubist period all the way up to his later works from before his death in 1973.
The museum also houses a collection of art from Paul Klee. There are 70 pieces on display, including some from early in his career, others from his time as a teacher and watercolors from just before his death in 1940.
Later works from Henri Matisse and Alberto Giacometti are also on display at the Museum Berggruen. Other artists include Georges Braque, Henri Laurens and Paul Cézanne. You can also see a collection of African sculptures at the museum.
Practical Info
Museum Berggruen is located at Schloßstraße 1. It is open Tuesday through Friday from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. and on Saturday and Sunday from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. The museum is closed on Monday.
Address: Schloßstraße 1, Berlin 14059, Germany
Hours: Tuesday-Friday 10am-6pm; Saturday-Sunday 11am-6pm; closed Monday
Admission: Adults EUR10
From $ 23
Chamaeleon Theater
The Chameleon (or Chamäleon in German) Theater was once a ballroom dating back to 1906. It is located in the Hackesche Höfe, a historic area of courtyards in Berlin's Mitte district and reopened about 10 years ago as a modern cabaret theater. Artists from around the world perform choreographed shows here, and since they’re generally displays of dancing and body language, there is no need to worry about language barriers.
The Chameleon Theater connects the past of the historic ballroom with the present and future on its stage with its entertaining shows. Performances feature an exciting variety of acrobatics, music, dance, comedy and drama, which is all part of the theater’s goal of enchanting its guests with bold shows from world-renowned performance artists. Each season, the theater changes its colors to fit with the next upcoming show, so the experience is ever-changing.
Practical Info
The Chameleon Theater is located at Rosenthaler Straße 40-41 in Berlin Mitte. The box office is open from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. on Monday, until 8 p.m. on Thursday and Friday, and until 9:30 p.m. on Saturday. On Sunday, it is open from noon to 6 p.m.
Address: Rosenthaler Straße 40 -41, Berlin, Germany
Hours: The box office is open from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. on Monday, until 8 p.m. on Thursday and Friday, and until 9:30 p.m. on Saturday. On Sunday, it is open from noon to 6 p.m.
Admission: Pricing varies
From $ 43
Berlin Zoo and Aquarium
Home to the most complete collection of animal species anywhere in the world, the Berlin Zoo and Aquarium celebrates the diversity of the animal kingdom. You’ll find everything from giant pandas to hippos, jellyfish, and gorillas here. Famous residents include Knut the polar bear and Bao Bao the giant panda.
The Basics
Opened in 1844 and located in the Tiergarten in the city center, Berlin Zoo is Germany’s oldest zoological garden and the most visited zoo in Europe. With daily feedings that visitors can watch and naturalistic enclosures, the zoo is designed to provide intimate encounters with animals. For an unforgettable experience, the zoo also offers “meet and greets” with the giraffes, elephants, hippos, tapirs, and meerkats in the company of experienced guides (adults only).
The accompanying aquarium was built in 1913 and is home to black-tip reef sharks, crocodiles penguins, “Nemos” (clownfish), and more. The aquarium also has several tuataras from New Zealand, a rare breed of lizard that has lived on Earth for 200 million years. The zoo is one of the stops on the Berlin hop-on-hop-off bus tour.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Entry to the zoo and aquarium is via paid ticket—visitors can choose a combined pass or purchase separate tickets for each attraction.
- The zoo and aquarium are wheelchair- accessible, and wheelchairs are available on loan.
- Both the zoo and aquarium have restaurants and cafes.
- Make sure to see the Chinese-inspired entrance gate with twin elephants, a replica of the original gate that was destroyed during World War II.
How to Get There
The zoo is accessible by car, hop-on hop-off bus, public transport, or on foot from nearby areas. The closest metro stop is Zoologischer Garten (S-Bahn and U-Bahn). Paid parking is also available.
When to Get There
The zoo is open from 9am–6pm 365 days a year; last entry is one hour before closing. Seasonal opening times are as follows: January 1–February 25, 9am–4:30pm; March 26–September 23, 9am–6:30pm; and October 29–December 31, 9am–4:30pm.
Take a Stroll in Tiergarten
Like Central Park in New York, Berlin’s Tiergarten is the city’s green heart, where locals come to run, walk, and enjoy the peaceful surroundings. With plenty of open lawns shaded by trees, it’s a great spot for a lunchtime picnic or simply somewhere to sit down and rest tired feet in between sightseeing spots.
Address: Budapester Straße 32, Berlin 10787, Germany
Admission: Varies
From $ 23
Berlin Wall
At the height of the Cold War in 1961, socialist East Germany erected the Berlin Wall as an imposing concrete barrier that divided Berlin's eastern and western sides for nearly 30 years. In 1989, toward the end of the war and the fall of East Germany and communism in Europe, the wall's demolition began, thus reunifying Germany. Today, sections of the wall remain as permanent reminders of the days when the country (and Berlin) was divided.
The Basics
On Bernauer Strasse, the Berlin Wall Memorial is made up of an original section of the wall and a gun turret. Visit the memorial and various portions of the wall on a small-group tour to learn about the area's history among other travelers, or on a private historian-led tour for an in-depth, personalized experience. Bike tours, Segway tours, and walking tours are all great ways to see the wall's various remaining sections spread across the city, as well as Checkpoint Charlie, the infamous border-crossing spot between the two sides.
Things to Know Before You Go
- The Berlin Wall Memorial features a visitor center, where you can get an overview of Berlin wall sites and watch a historical film, plus the Documentation Center with its exhibits and the Chapel of Reconciliation, where prayers services are held.
- The longest and most interesting remaining stretch of the wall is the open-air East Side Gallery, set on Mühlenstrasse featuring murals painted by international artists in 1990 and again in 2009.
- Because Berlin's reunification was so successful, it can be difficult to tell the difference between east and west in many parts of the city. Look for the double row of cobblestones to guide you along certain sections of the wall’s course.
How to Get to the Berlin Wall
The almost 100-mile-long (160-km) Berliner Mauerweg is a multi-use path that runs along the former wall, with 40 multilingual information stations posted along the way. In other parts of the city, lengths of the wall are covered in psychedelic graffiti, like that at the East Side Gallery on Mühlenstrasse. Sections of the wall also remain near the former site of the Gestapo headquarters.
When to Get There
The Berlin Wall Memorial on Bernauer Strasse is open daily from 8am to 10pm. The visitor center is open Tuesday through Sunday from 9:30am until 6 or 7pm, depending on the season. The East Side Gallery is always available to visit, and the Museum Haus am Checkpoint Charlie is open daily from 9am to 10pm.
Berlin Sights Along the Wall
It's ironic that Berlin's most popular attraction, for the most part, no longer exists. Because the Berlin Wall disappears and reappears around the city, you can see several of the German capital's most important landmarks as you visit the wall. Museum Island, Potsdamer Platz, and the Brandenburg Gate can be seen easily on a bicycle tour, weather permitting.
Address: Mühlenstraße, Berlin 10243, Germany
Admission: Free
From $ 16
Checkpoint Charlie
Once one of three Berlin Wall border points, bridging the divide between the Allied-occupied West Berlin and Soviet-occupied East Berlin, Checkpoint Charlie is one of the most important Cold War sites in Berlin. Today, a recreated guard house marks the site where numerous confrontations, escape attempts, and protests took place, and the adjoining Checkpoint Charlie Museum is a moving tribute to those who risked their lives to escape from East Germany and bring about the fall of the wall.
The Basics
Most sightseeing city tours or hop-on hop-off bus tours of Berlin make a stop at Checkpoint Charlie, while walking tours, bike tours, and Segway tours offer a more unique way to visit the landmark. For historical context, be sure to visit the Checkpoint Charlie Museum (Mauermuseum), or combine it with a tour of other historic war sites, such as the Wall Memorial, the East Side Gallery, or the Allied Museum, where the original Checkpoint Charlie border crossing is on display.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Souvenir passport stamps and photos at Checkpoint Charlie are available for an extra fee.
- Just south of Checkpoint Charlie is the Black Box Cold War exhibit and Outdoor Checkpoint Charlie Gallery.
- The Checkpoint Charlie Museum is mostly wheelchair accessible, although some exhibits may be off-limits.
How to Get There
Checkpoint Charlie is located on Friedrichstrasse in East Berlin, just east of Potsdamer Platz. The closest U-Bahn stations are Kochstrasse and Stadtmitte, but it’s also possible to walk there from many nearby sights—the Brandenburg Gate is about a 20-minute walk away.
When to Get There
The sight is open daily, all year round, but the small space can get overcrowded in the summer months. Aim to visit first or last thing in the day to avoid the main crowds or pre-book your tickets in advance to skip the line.
Exploring the Checkpoint Charlie Museum
A small museum crammed with photos, artifacts, and information, the Checkpoint Charlie Museum offers a moving portrait of Berlin during the Cold War era. Notable exhibitions focus on the creative and daring ways that East Germans attempted to escape across the border—including a cleverly adapted VW car, a hot-air balloon, and a suitcase. It’s a memorial to those who lost their lives, and offers first-hand accounts of life behind the wall as well as a look at human rights efforts around the world.
Address: Intersection of Friedrichstraße and Zimmerstraße, Berlin 10923, Germany
Admission: Free
From $ 16
Bebelplatz
The Bebelplatz is a public square in the central ‘Mitte’ district of Germany’s capital city, Berlin. Today it is best known for being the site where some 20,000 newly banned books were burned by bonfire in 1933 on order of Joseph Goebbels, the Nazi propaganda minister, because they conflicted with Nazi ideology. The square is surrounded by notable historical buildings, including the German State Opera (Staatsoper); St. Hedwig’s Cathedral (built in 1747 and modeled after Rome’s Pantheon, it was the first Catholic church built in Germany after the Protestant Reformation); and the former Royal Prussian Library (Alte Bibliothek) which is now part of Humboldt University.
All of the buildings on the Bebelplatz were destroyed in World War II and reconstructed afterward. An easily overlooked monument in the center of the square simply contains a pane of glass, which the visitor can look through to see many rows of empty bookshelves underground. A nearby plaque quotes the 19th-century German poet Heinrich Heine with, ‘Where they burn books, at the end they also burn people.’
Practical Info
Be sure to pack your walking shoes, because like many city centers in Germany, the Bebelplatz is a pedestrianonly square. It is located on the south side of Unter den Linden boulevard, a major eastwest thoroughfare that traverses Berlin’s city center. The square also has its own stop on public transit. The underground lines that stop there are the U6 (Französische Str.) and the U2 (Hausvogteiplatz). The bus lines going to Bebelplatz are: 100, 147, 200, N2, N6, and TXL.
Address: Bebelplatz, Berlin 10117, Germany
From $ 29
Berlin City Hall (Rotes Rathaus)
The Berlin City Hall (Rotes Rathaus), with its striking façade, is one of the German capital city’s most important landmarks. Named the “Red City Hall” because of the materials used in its construction, the brick building was completed in 1869. The neo-renaissance building was designed as a multi-winged complex, in round-arch style, featuring three inner courtyards and a 243-foot (74-meter) tower.
Since 1991, the Rotes Rathaus has served as seat of the Governing Mayor and the Senate of Berlin. There are several rooms well worth visiting inside the Rotes Rathaus. The Hall of Arms, with windows that represent all the emblems of Berlin, and the emblems of all the districts of the city, is used as a reception room for guests of state. The Grand Ballroom is used for larger events like receptions and ceremonies. One of the most beautiful rooms is the Pillar Hall, with its orange-colored, groin-vaulted ceiling and its many busts. Formerly home to the building’s library, the Pillar Hall now hosts exhibitions and events. The hallway on the third floor holds the portraits of every honorary citizen of Berlin, painted by Rolf Dübner.
Practical Info
Berlin’s City Hall (Rotes Rathaus) is located in the Mitte district, near Alexanderplatz. Although the Rotes Rathaus and its exhibitions are usually open to visitors from 9am-6pm. Monday to Friday, temporary closures may occur due to political events and safety reasons.
Address: Rathausstraße 15, Berlin 10178, Germany
From $ 23
Alexanderplatz
Alexanderplatz remains the largest urban square in all of Germany and is a central meeting place in Berlin, located in the Mitte District. At its center is the large railway station (Alexanderplatz) with connections to many subway (U-Bahn), tramway (Strassenbahn), city trains (S-Bahn) and buses.
Named after the Russian Czar Alexander I, who visited the capital of Prussia in 1805, "Alex" became a traffic hub when a train station was established there in 1882.
Alexanderplatz took on its present form in the 1960’s after being ravaged in World War II. After the war it became the center of East-Berlin and used as a showcase of socialist architecture. This resulted in some unattractive buildings like the former Centrum department store and the Berliner Fernsehturm (TV Tower). In 1969 two more monuments were added to the square, the Weltzeituhr (World Time Clock) by Erich John and the Fountain of International Friendship.
The Fountain of International Friendship is a circular fountain; at its center is a modern structure that consists of a series of basins along which water flows down.
The square was known to be one of the least attractive from an architectural point of view, so the city of Berlin commissioned an architectural competition which was won by Hans Kohlhoff (one of the architects who designed Potsdamer Platz). The plan resulted in a complete redevelopment of the square, as well as the renovation and reconstruction of surrounding buildings.
If you look up, socialist art adorns a number of the buildings surrounding the square, created by artist Walter Womacka.
Named after the Russian Czar Alexander I, who visited the capital of Prussia in 1805, "Alex" became a traffic hub when a train station was established there in 1882.
Alexanderplatz took on its present form in the 1960’s after being ravaged in World War II. After the war it became the center of East-Berlin and used as a showcase of socialist architecture. This resulted in some unattractive buildings like the former Centrum department store and the Berliner Fernsehturm (TV Tower). In 1969 two more monuments were added to the square, the Weltzeituhr (World Time Clock) by Erich John and the Fountain of International Friendship.
The Fountain of International Friendship is a circular fountain; at its center is a modern structure that consists of a series of basins along which water flows down.
The square was known to be one of the least attractive from an architectural point of view, so the city of Berlin commissioned an architectural competition which was won by Hans Kohlhoff (one of the architects who designed Potsdamer Platz). The plan resulted in a complete redevelopment of the square, as well as the renovation and reconstruction of surrounding buildings.
If you look up, socialist art adorns a number of the buildings surrounding the square, created by artist Walter Womacka.
Address: Alexanderplatz, Berlin 10178, Germany
From $ 13
DDR Museum
The official name of East Germany was first Deutsche Demokratische Republik (DDR), or German Democratic Republic. The DDR Museum in Berlin is an interactive site where visitors can see what life in East Germany was like when the country was split into East and West regions. Rather than simply having exhibits to view and signs to read like most museums, DDR Museum exhibits often require visitors to push buttons, open doors or drawers and pull levers to get information and the full experience.
In this museum, visitors can get a glimpse of what it was like to be under surveillance in a bugged room. Artifacts, such as old clothing, a typewriter and a landmine from the border, are also on display. Other exhibits include one where you can listen to prisoner interrogations and another where you can drive an old Trabi car.
Many people who once lived in East Germany now bring their children and grandchildren to the DDR Museum to show them what life was like just a few decades ago. However, as one of the most popular museums in Berlin, it also attracts tourists from around the world who come to visit the German capital and journey back in time to explore its recent history.
Practical Info
The DDR Museum is located at Karl-Liebknecht-Str. 1 on the river Spree. It is directly opposite the Berlin Cathedral. It's open daily from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m., except on Saturday when it is open until 10 p.m.
Address: Karl-Liebknecht-Str. 1, Berlin 10178, Germany
Hours: Daily 10am-8pm, Saturday 10am-10pm
Admission: Adults €7
From $ 11
Altes Museum
The Altes Museum, or Old Museum, is the oldest structure on Berlin’s UNESCO World Heritage–listed Museum Island. The neoclassical building was built in 1830 to resemble the Pantheon in Rome, and today its 18 Ionic columns welcome visitors to experience its collection, featuring artifacts from the ancient Greek, Roman, and Etruscan eras.
The Basics
In addition to its stunning classical antiquities—including the largest collection of Etruscan art outside of Italy—the Altes Museum is one of Berlin’s finest pieces of architecture and is highlighted on many tours of the city center. If you want to dive deep into the art history of the city, book a private tour to learn more about the fascinating works of the Altes Museum and the other buildings on Museum Island. To get a comprehensive overview of Berlin’s cultural heritage, you can purchase the Museum Pass Berlin, which includes admission to more than 30 exhibitions and museums. Alternatively, a 2- or 3-day Berlin Pass gets you into the Altes Museum and more than 50 other city attractions.
Things to Know Before You Go
- The Altes Museum is a must-visit for lovers of ancient art and art history.
- There is a free cloakroom for storing personal items as well as those not permitted in the museum, including large bags and backpacks, tripods, and umbrellas.
- Visitors under the age of 18 receive free admission.
- The museum is suitable for those with hearing loss or impairment, learning disabilities, and limited mobility.
How to Get There
The Altes Museum is located in Berlin Mitte on Museum Island. There is no parking available so take the S-Bahn to Hackescher Markt, or tram M1 or 12 to Georgenstr./Am Kupfergraben.
When to Get There
The Altes Museum is open from 10am to 6pm on Tuesday, Wednesday, Friday, Saturday, and Sunday, and until 8pm on Thursday (when there are fewer visitors); check the website for holiday hours. It is advised to visit the museum outside of the summer months when Berlin is less crowded.
A German Monument That Stood the Test of Time
In the 1800s King Friedrich Wilhelm IV commissioned the Altes Museum to house some of Germany’s most beautiful and ancient art and artifacts. Upon completion, he designated the northern part of Spree Island—known today as Museum Island (Museumsinsel) and a UNESCO World Heritage Site—to house even more pieces from around the world. Despite the bombings of World War II and the harsh communist government during the Cold War, most of the buildings survived and subsequently lovingly repaired to reflect Germany’s passion for preserving art and history.
Address: Am Lustgarten, Berlin 10178, Germany
Admission: Varies
From $ 45
Berlin TV Tower (Berliner Fernsehturm)
Soaring 1,207 feet (368 meters) over Alexanderplatz, Berlin’s TV Tower (Berliner Fernsehturm) is Germany’s tallest structure. Built to mark the 20th anniversary of the German Democratic Republic in 1969, the tower was intended to be a symbol of East Germany’s achievements as a socialist society. Today it’s one of the capital’s most visited landmarks, affording 360-degree views over the entire city.
The Basics
Visitors can take in the views from the 666-foot-high (203-meter-high) observation deck, grab a drink at Berlin’s highest bar, or book a table at the revolving Sphere restaurant. A visit to the tower is included on many sightseeing tours and hop-on hop-off bus tours of Berlin. It’s also a popular photo stop on walking, biking, and Segway city tours, and can be seen on sightseeing cruises along the River Spree. Choose a skip-the-line ticket to avoid a long wait.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Discounted entry is available for Berlin Welcome Card holders.
- Ticket holders should arrive 15 minutes before the allotted time in order to pass through security.
- Free Wi-Fi is available on-site.
- Restaurant visitors should leave their coats at the free coat-check at the entrance.
- Large items, backpacks, and strollers are prohibited inside the tower.
- Due to safety concerns, wheelchair users and those with limited mobility are not permitted to enter the tower.
How to Get There
The Berlin TV Tower is located on Alexanderplatz in the Mitte neighborhood, about a 10-minute walk from nearby attractions such as Berlin Cathedral and Museum Island. The tower can also be reached by S-bahn (Alexanderplatz station), U-bahn (Klosterstraße station), and tram (Alexanderplatz). Paid car parking is located at Alexanderplatz and Otto-Braun Street.
When to Get There
The Berlin TV Tower is open daily, but with more than 1.2 million annual visitors, it can get crowded, especially during summer and holidays. Opt for an early morning visit for the best chance to beat the throngs. Alternatively, head up to the observation deck after dark for an unforgettable view of Berlin’s skyline. Other atmospheric times to visit include during the Berlin Festival of Lights in October and the Alexanderplatz Christmas Market.
The View from the Tower
The viewing platform of the Berlin TV Tower offers panoramic views over the city below. Display panels help you pinpoint such top attractions as the Reichstag (parliament) building, the Brandenburg Gate, and the Spree River. Farther afield you might spot the Olympic Stadium, Tempelhof airport, and the Tiergarten, or remains of the Berlin Wall and the many monuments of the UNESCO-listed Museum Island.
Address: Panoramastrasse 1a, Berlin 10178, Germany
Hours: Mar–Oct 9am–12am; Nov–Feb 10am–12am
Admission: Adults €15.50, Children €9.50
From $ 23