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75 Best Things to Do in Berlin (Germany)

No capital city in the world feels quite like Berlin, and maybe that’s because none has had a century as eventful. Here’s a city that was the party capital of the world in the Golden Twenties and was then razed and cut in two. One half rebounded as an economic juggernaut while the other languished in oppression and a sea of concrete.

And when the two halves were reunited a quarter of a century ago Berlin got a new identity as a fun-loving, disarmingly scruffy, cool and socially-conscious hotbed of ideas. And if you need photo-friendly sights Berlin has them in spades and they’re all permeated with the drama of the last hundred years.

Let’s explore the best things to do in Berlin :

1. Brandenburg Gate

Where Unter den Linden intersects with Ebertstraße stands what may be Germany’s most recognisable sight.

For first-timers in Berlin the Brandenburg Gate is obligatory, and it’s charged with real emotion and meaning, as an ever-present landmark during the destruction of the Second World War and the Berlin Wall when it stood at the divide.

This ceremonial monument was erected at the turn of the 1790s at the behest of the Prussian King Frederick William II, on the site of one of Berlin’s former defensive gates.

At the top is the Quadriga, a chariot pulled by four horses, all supported by 12 Doric columns forming five passageways.

Recommended tour : Discover Berlin Walking Tour

2. Reichstag

Another landmark that sums up the drama of the 20th century in Berlin is the Reichstag, the meeting place of the German Parliament.

This Neo-Baroque building dates from 1894 and housed the Imperial Diet until it was damaged in that infamous and historic fire in 1933. The ruins were merely maintained until after the Berlin Wall fell.

And as soon as it came down a restoration project by Norman Foster began to resurrect the Reichstag as an emblem of a unified Germany.

The plan included a new glass dome in which you can look down on the debating chamber and take in Berlin’s cityscape, all while hooked up to an audio-guide.

Available activity: Berlin Reichstag: Rooftop Dinner at the Käfer Restaurant

3. Tiergarten

After scurrying around the big-hitting sights and museums the Tiergarten could be a peaceful interlude.

It’s a large belt of thick foliage, coursed by the Landwehr Canal and spreading west from the Brandenburg Gate and Reichstag.

Like so many European city parks the Tiergarten was once a hunting ground (for the Electors of Brandenburg) before being revamped in the 1830s by the Prussian architect Peter Joseph Lenné.

Schloss Bellevue, the residence for the President of Germany, is in the Tiergarten.

Beyond providing some respite from the city the Tiergarten is woven with monuments like the Bismarck memorial, and pretty spots like the Luiseninsel and rose garden.

4. Victory Column (Siegessäule)

Where the roads converge in the Tiergarten there’s another big photo opportunity.

The Victory Column was built in 1864 after the defeat of Denmark in the Danish-Prussian War.

But it would also come to represent a slew of other victories in that era, over Austria and then France in 1870-71. Following these successes an 8.3-metre sculpture of Victoria was added to the top of the column, weighing 35 tons.

The whole monument once stood in front of the Reichstag, but was moved in 1938-39 to its current spot at the centre of a roundabout as part of Hitler’s ambitious plan to remodel Berlin as “World Capital Germania”. For a small fee you can tridge the 285 steps of the spiral stairway to watch over the Tiergarten and Berlin 51 metres above the park.

5. Museum Island

A UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Museum Island on the Spree is an ensemble of five world-beating museums.

These are the Altes Museum, Alte National Galerie, Neues Museum, Bode-Museum and the Pergamon Museum.

This little district, and the wider notion of a museum as a venue for public edification, is a product of the Enlightenment and plans were set in motion in the early 19th century.

The museums were also an opportunity to show off the richness and sophistication of the Prussian royal collections and the fruits of its 19th-century victories.

The first institution to open was the Altes Museum in 1830, designed by Karl Friedrich Schinkel who drew up several Neoclassical monuments around Berlin in that period.

The last was the Pergamon Forum from 1930, while the Neues Museum from 1859 was reopened in 2009 having been wrecked in the war.

Tip: If you’re planning to visit a few museums have a look at the Museum Pass Berlin: 3-Day Entry to Over 30 Museums

6. Neues Museum

Created in 1855, destroyed in 1945 and now reborn, the Neues Museum had been left to rot for the entire post-War period.

Finally, after reunification plans were put in place its treasury of ancient artefacts was finally moved from the Altes Musuem back to its rightful home in 2009. There are galleries for Ancient Rome and Greece, but it’s the Egyptian displays that pull in the crowds and none more so than the bust of Queen Nefertiti.

The 3,350-year-old sculpture was discovered at Amarna in 1912 and has been beguiling people ever since.

Still, Nefertiti is only one of many exhibits, from hieroglyphics to sarcophagi and two preserved ancient courtyards, one Egyptian and one Greek.

7. Gemäldegalerie

Paintings by Europe’s greatest artists up to the 18th century are in store at the Gemäldegalerie, one of the world’s top fine art museums.

For the sake of introduction, we’re talking about Botticelli, Albrecht Dürer, Rubens, Rembrandt, Hans Holbein, Raphael, Vermeer, Botticelli and many more than we can list here.

This wealth of painting wasn’t amassed by a single family, but was curated by the Prussian Government from 1815 as a cross-section of European art.

You have 1,250 works of the highest quality to see, by master after master, so don’t be surprised if you lose all track of time under their spell.

8. Gedenkstätte Berliner Mauer

Some of the most memorable images from the early days of the Berlin Wall were recorded at Bernauer Straße where there’s now a memorial to this famous boundary.

A 70-metre length of the wall has been preserved here, including the Todesstreifen (Death Strip) in between, and a watchtower beside the street.

This whole section is closed off as a permanent memorial to those who lost their lives trying to cross between 1961 and 1989. Across Bernauer Straße is the visitor centre, which chronicles the wall, from when it was first enforced to its eventual destruction.

There’s also a five-storey observation tower giving you a true sense of the divide.

9. Pergamon Museum

At the Pergamon Museum you’ll come face-to-face with epic ancient monuments from the Near East, brought in pieces to Berlin from the 1910s and reconstructed in these galleries.

The 2nd-Century Pergamon Altar is the piece that gives the museum its name, a stairway and portico on a pedestal adorned with a frieze in high relief portraying scenes from Greek mythology.

Some other wonders are the colourful Ishtar Gate, rebuilt with the material discovered in its excavation, the Roman Market Gate of Miletus, the Islamic art of the Umayyad Mshatta Facade from Jordan and, oldest of all, the Mesopotamian Meissner fragment from the Epic of Gilgamesh.

10. Deutsches Historisches Museum

In the Zeughaus, one of the many palatial buildings on Unter den Linden, the German Historical Museum reveals 2,000 years of German history.

For this there’s an enormous exhibition of 7,000 artefacts arranged in chronological order.

These jump from precious pieces, like the iconic painting of Martin Luther by Lucas Cranach the elder or Napoleon’s hat worn at the Battle of Waterloo, to things that give you a hint of everyday life.

So you can also cast your eye over Weimar election posters, penny farthing bikes from the 19th century, intact American supply drops from the Berlin Blockade and home appliances from the GDR.

11. Memorial to the Murdered Jews of Europe

Not far from the Brandenburg Gate is the solemn and powerful memorial to the holocaust, designed by the New York architect Peter Eisenman.

Set on what used to be the “death strip of the Berlin Wall” are 2,711 concrete blocks of varying heights, in a grid pattern on an undulating open space that lends the memorial a wavelike form.

The blocks are on 54 north-south rows, and 87 perpendicular east-west rows.

The memorial encourages you to interact and reflect, and there’s also an underground gallery ; a network of themed rooms offers background on Jewish victims of the holocaust, with biographies, letters and personal effects of some of the victims.

12. Unter den Linden

Berlin’s oldest and most stately boulevard runs east to west from the Musuem Island to the Brandenburg Gate.

The route is as old as Berlin, and the lime trees that give Unter den Linden its name were planted in 1647. But it was only in the 18th century, during the reign of Frederick the Great that the boulevard took on its current grandeur.

The big sights like the Zeughaus, State Opera and Humboldt University all arrived in this period.

The list of alumni at the university includes Einstein, Marx, Engels and Hegel.

Many of the historic landmarks on Unter den Linden were levelled or badly damaged in the war and would take until after Reunification to be rebuilt or restored.

13. Gendarmenmarkt

Contained by Charlottenstraße and Markgrafenstraße is a square exuding Baroque opulence and plotted by the architect Johann Arnold Nering in the 17th century.

The showpieces are the French and German Churches, facing off at the northern and southern ends of the plaza.

They are both fronted by porticos and crowned with regal domes.

Between them is the newer and very imposing Konzerthaus, erected in 1821, in front of a statue of the writer Friedrich Schiller.

In December the square gets a sprinkle of fairy dust when the Christmas Market sets up, while the Classic Open Air is a programme of concerts in summer.

14. Topography of Terror

Like the Memorial to the Murdered Jews, the Topography of Terror stands as another sobering message for future generations.

On Niederkirchnerstrasse is the former location of the Gestapo and SS, two names that are instantly connected to possibly the most infamous period in European history.

The headquarters for these institutions were bombed in the war and then pulled down afterwards, before being abandoned on the course of the wall, which still stands here.

There’s an open-air exhibition on the excavated ruins of the headquarters, recalling life in Berlin during the Third Reich, the story of the SS and Gestapo, their key figures and the deeds that were plotted at this place.

15. Fernsehturm

Raised next to Alexanderplatz in the late-1960s, the Fernsehturm (Television Tower) was intended as a highly visible symbol of communist power in East Berlin.

Still the second tallest structure in all of the European Union, it is as much landmark for Berlin as the Reichstag or the Brandenburg Gate.

The Fernsehturm is also the highest building in Europe open to the public, and provided you plan ahead, the 40-second ride to the viewing platform 200 metres high is something you can’t turn down.

From this height you can zoom in on the minutest details with a telescope, and there’s also a revolving restaurant, which requires a bit of pre-planning if you want a table.

Suggested activity : Skip-the-Line Berlin TV Tower with VIP Dinner

16. Jewish Museum Berlin

On Lindenstraße the museum tackling the weighty topic of Jewish history in Germany opened in 2001 in an acclaimed Deconstructivist building by Daniel Libeskind.

From above, the museum’s plan resembles a bolt of lightning and has been compared to a dismantled star of David.

Once you start negotiating its zigzagging corridors there are empty spaces, 20-metre-high voids that express interrupted history and the sense of loss of the holocaust.

The permanent exhibition lays out the story of the Jews in Germany, starting in the towns on the banks of the Rhine in medieval times.

The hope and prosperity of the Jewish Emancipation of the 18th and 19th centuries gives way to National Socialism and the horrors that followed.

An alternative axis leads you to the Garden of Exile, and another to the Holocaust Tower, a hollow 24-metre silo.

17. DDR Museum

Believe it or not, “Ostalgie”, or nostalgia for the German Democratic Republic, is a thing in the former East Germany.

The DDR Museum opened just across from the Berlin Cathedral in 2006 and is a complete repository for the German Democratic Republic, documenting the good, the bad and the downright kitsch.

Among many things you can check out the decor and furnishings inside a typical flat in an East German “plattenbau” concrete tower block and see what it was like to drive a Trabant.

Across 27 themed spaces there’s memorabilia from the Free German Youth (FDJ), recordings of East German music, a reproduction of a classroom, but also information about the notorious Stasi and their efforts to pry into the lives of thousands of citizens.

18. Berlin Cathedral

Not strictly a cathedral, as it has never been the seat for a bishop, this temple on Museum island is still Berlin’s most important Protestant church.

It’s the fourth church at this setting next to the Spree, in a line that goes back to 1451. The current cathedral is in the exuberant Historicist style and was finished in 1904. Berlin Cathedral sustained damage in the Second World War when the lantern in the dome was destroyed, but the building never collapsed and has become another allegory for Berlin.

Restoration began in the 1970s and took until 1993. Through the portal there’s a profusion of goldwork, mosaics, sculpture and a mosaic hewn from marble and onyx by the 19th-century architect Friedrich August Stüler.

Below, enter the Hohenzollern Crypt, the resting place for the House of Hohenzollern, which produced Prussian Kings and German Emperors.

19. Alexanderplatz

The largest square in Germany and an energetic transport hub, Alexanderplatz is one of the most dynamic and exciting corners of Berlin.

This former parade ground became the city’s main shopping district at the start of the 20th century.

It was completely obliterated in the Second World War and owes its appearance to a GDR project during the 1960s.

In those days “Alex” was the scene of many public gatherings, including the peaceful protests against the wall in 1989. The rate of transformation since the wall came down has been dramatic, and following developments like the Alexa mall, Alexanderplatz is a major shopping and entertainment destination once again.

A lot of the GDR’s concrete architecture remains, most famously in the unforgettable silhouette of the Fernsehturm.

20. Checkpoint Charlie

The intersection of Friedrichstraße and Zimmerstraße is the site of the legendary border crossing between East and West Berlin.

This very place was almost the scene of a catastrophe in 1961 when American and Soviet Tanks stood off against each other for six days at the end of October.

Later, in 1962, it witnessed the death of Peter Fechter, a teenager shot trying to cross from East to West.

The name comes from the phonetic alphabet (Charlie meaning C), as Checkpoint Charlie was the third such border crossing set up by the allies in the city.

Now the guardhouse and sandbags in the centre of the street are worth a photo as you pass by.

21. Tränenpalast (Palace of Tears)

Also harking back to the days of the wall is a hall at Friedrichstraße Station, the only westbound border crossing by train, U-Bahn and S-Bahn link.

West Berliners making short visits to the east would return home from here, and the name Tränenpalast comes from the tearful goodbyes that would happen in front of the station.

The old terminal has an exhibition using firsthand accounts by people who made the journey between 1962 and 1990, describing the stringent security measures and customs checks.

There are hundreds of original artefacts to bring the reality home, while the original signs and instruction panels have been preserved and are still in place.

22. Treptower Park

A quick ride on the S-Bahn takes you to Treptower Park next to the Spree in the southeast of Berlin.

Summer is when the park is at its best as you can amble beside the river for four kilometres or catch a boat for a cruise on the Spree.

The park was landscaped in the English style in 1884 and spreads over 84 hectares, composed of abundant lawns, tree groves and a rose garden.

Right after the war an immense memorial and cemetery was built for the 80,000 Soviet soldiers who died in the Battle of Berlin.

It was East Germany’s chief war memorial and is a large ensemble of sculptures, including a central area lined with 16 stone sarcophagi, one for each of the Soviet republics.

This leads up to a 12-metre statue of a Soviet soldier holding a German child and standing on a smashed swastika.

23. Gedächtniskirche

The original Kaiser Wilhelm Church was built in the 1890s and had a Neo-Romanesque style.

The church was part of the Kaiser’s nationwide construction project to ward off the growing labour movement, and was named after his grandfather.

It was badly damaged in a bombing raid in 1943, and after the war there was a big debate about whether it should be pulled down or rebuilt.

In the end the architect Egon Eiermann designed a stunning modern church next to the ruins.

This new building has walls inlaid with more than 20,000 blue stained glass panels and consecrated in 1961. The surviving, damaged tower of the old church remains as a memorial, holding an anti-war exhibition with a crucifix made from nails collected from Coventry Cathedral, bombed by the Nazis in 1940.

24. Olympic Stadium

Few sporting arenas have seen as much world-changing history as Berlin’s Olympic Stadium.

When the Nazis came to power in 1933 they identified the upcoming 1936 Olympics as a propaganda opportunity, and Werner March was called upon to design a monumental stadium that would turn heads.

The result was a technical masterpiece and would be the arena where Jesse Owens took four gold medals, undermining any notions of Aryan supremacy.

Since then an immense steel roof has been installed, weighing 3,500 tons and the capacity has been cut back from 100,000 to 74,475. Visit for a tour during the week, or try to catch the famous atmosphere of a Bundesliga match when Hertha BSC play their home matches in the ground between August and May.

25. Berlin Philharmonie

The Berlin Philharmoniker is often voted in the top two or three symphony orchestras in the world.

So for classical music fans a night at the Philharmoniker’s home venue might represent a lifetime ambition.

The concert hall, noted for its tent-like roof, opened on the south side of the Tiergarten in 1963. In those days it was in a wasteland created by the wall, but is now at the green soul of the city and a member of the Kulturforum ensemble of important cultural venues.

An odd piece of trivia is that guns were used to test the acoustics during construction in the early 60s.

You might have your eye on an upcoming performance, but if you’d just like a taster there’s a free concert of chamber music every Tuesday at 13:00 in the foyer.

26. Deutsches Technikmuseum

A technophile’s idea of heaven, the German Technology Museum is a trip through transport and industry down the years.

Kids will be wild about the fleet of heavy-duty vehicles like steam and diesel locomotives and a gigantic aviation hall holding a V-1 bomb, an Arado Ar 96, the wreckage of a Stuka divebomber and Lancaster, a Messerschmitt Bf 110 and a Focke-Wulf Fw 200 Condor.

As for industrial processes, the museum doesn’t just tell you how things are made; it shows you with live demonstrations of paper production and typecasting for newspapers for instance.

Kids can also get involved at the Science Centre, where wacky experiments will deepen their understanding of concepts like electricity, light and magnetism.

27. Charlottenburg Palace

The summer home of the imperial Hollenzollern family is an easy journey west on the S-Bahn, and is the largest and most refined palace in the city.

Berlin’s answer to Versailles was first built in 1695, and then expanded according to the taste of its owners over the next century or so.

And like Versailles, Charlottenburg could easily consume a day, as there’s so much to see at the palace and its various outbuildings, many hosting museums.

The baroque Old Palace has a magnificent porcelain cabinet, sumptuous tableware, the crown jewels and royal silver collection.

The Rococo New Wing has the state apartments of Frederick the Great, while the Hohenzollern mausoleum is where members of that prestigious family are buried.

The delightful Belvedere outside has a display of Berlin porcelain, while the old palace theatre has a museum for prehistory.

28. Kaufhaus des Westens

Shortened to KaDeWe, Kaufhaus des Westens is a department store without rival.

This eight-storey monster is the most famous shopping destination in Germany and the second largest department store in Europe.

If you’ve got money to burn the first three floors are all about high-end women’s and men’s fashion, and if you think you’ve seen it all before, the dazzling “Luxury Boulevard” on the ground floor is like a mini 5th Avenue.

But for the rest of us the show-stopper is the immense “Delicatessen” food hall on the 6th floor where scores of confectioners and bakers work their magic, and almost any specialty food under the sun is available.

Then above is the winter garden, setting the scene for KaDeWe’s 1,000-seat self-service restaurant.

29. Museum für Naturkunde

You can say hello to the world’s largest mounted dinosaur skeleton at the central hall of Berlin’s natural history museum.

Standing at 13.27 metres this beast, a sauropod, would have weighed 55 tons when it was alive.

Nearly all the material is from one animal, discovered in Tanzania in the early 20th century.

Tristan the T-Rex, and the groundbreaking archaeopteryx fossil (the missing link between reptiles and birds), are the other main events.

But there’s a lot more keep you rapt in the museum’s galleries: Take the 4,500 mineral specimens in the Hall of Minerals, a taxidermy of a dodo, and an exhibition illustrating the theory of evolution with perfect clarity.

30. Mauerpark Market

Mauerpark in Prenzlauer Berg is the setting for a shopping trip to remember.

The market is at its best in summer, when you can compare it to a small music festival.

In among the stalls are musicians playing gigs for little crowds, as and street food vendors selling international fare.

The stallholders themselves are mostly everyday people trying to sell stuff they no longer need.

But there are also professionals flogging antiques and collectibles like Soviet paraphernalia, and artisans selling handicrafts, clothing and art.

At 15:00 all attention turns to the amphitheatre where there’s a mass karaoke session in which anyone can take part, as long as they don’t mind singing in front of hundreds of people!

31. Alte Nationalgalerie

When the wealthy banker and art patron Joachim Heinrich Wilhelm Wagener passed away in 1861 he bequeathed his bountiful collection of 262 paintings to Prussia.

That collection would be the basis for the Nationalgalerie, and work began on a venue within two years.

Friedrich August Stüler’s came up with a stately Neoclassical temple that has a few Eclecticist flourishes thrown in.

As for the contents, the museum deals only with the 19th century.

We’re talking about the Romantic art of Caspar David Friedrich and his contemporaries, moving through Impressionism and paintings by Renoir and Monet, into the early roots of Modernism via Max Liebermann and Adolph von Menzel.

32. Konzerthaus Berlin

The grand concert hall on Gendarmenmarkt was actually a theatre for most of its history.

As the Königliches Schauspielhaus, and then the Preußisches Staatstheater, the most illustrious actors of the 19th century trod its boards.

It functioned in this capacity up to the Second World War when it was bombed out.

The ruins were left untouched until the building was revived as a concert hall and the venue for the Berlin Symphony Orchestra (Now the Konzerthausorchester Berlin). Check the season in advance and buy, beg, borrow or steal to get a seat, as the acoustics in the Konzerthaus are rated in the top five in the world.

33. Berlin Zoo

No animal attraction in Europe gets more visitors than the Berlin Zoo, which is enveloped in woodland on the southwestern corner of the Tiergarten.

At just over 1,5000 the array of different species is the largest on the planet, and the zoo toes the line between ethical animal treatment and crowd-pleasing exhibits.

All the big cats are present, along with chimpanzees, orangutans, bonobos and gorillas: As of 2017 Fatou here is the oldest gorilla in the world at 60 years olc.

Though space is at a premium near the centre of the city, the inhabitants are kept in humane enclosures that resemble they’re natural environments.

The zoo engages in breeding programmes for rhinos, gaurs and various rare deer and pig species, while a pair of giant pandas arrived in 2017 on a breeding loan and are presented in a large glass habitat.

34. Potsdamer Platz

On the southeast corner of Tiergarten, Potsdamer Platz was an empty no-man’s-land divided by the wall from the end of the war to the 1990s.

That was all a far cry from the Golden Twenties when the square had been the bustling centre of the city, an equivalent to Times Square for its transport connections, shopping, entertainment and nightlife.

After the wall came down developers were presented with a blank canvas to re-imagine a unified Berlin as a modern, forward-thinking capital.

Only a quarter of a century later Potsdamer Platz is a futuristic business district in the mould of La Défense or Canary Wharf.

Daimler’s Haus-Huth here was the only facade to survive the devastation of the war, and behind it lies a free museum for modern and contemporary art delving into movements from Bauhaus to Minimalism.

35. Sony Center

Maybe the showpiece for the new Potsdamer Platz is this building complex that went up during the 1990, designed by Helmut Jahn and Peter Walker.

The centre is a kind of plaza, encircled by arresting glass towers and sheltered by a tent-like canopy, which creates a real sense of spectacle.

Around it are shops, hotels, museums, cinemas, an IMAX theatre, restaurants and offices.

There’s free Wi-Fi on the plaza and sure to appeal to kids is the branch of the Legoland Discovery Centre, an indoor theme park based on the much-loved building toy.

36. East Side Gallery

Warschauer Straße station is the spot to start a walk beside the longest preserved stretch of the Berlin Wall.

Every patch has been adorned with art, turning this into the world’s longest outdoor gallery.

Some of the murals have gone down in history and are indelible, while others are constantly being replaced and updated.

Most of the work is bold, colourful and thought-provoking.

The lasting image depicts GDR leader Erich Honecker and General Secretary of the Communist Party Leonid Brezhnev locked in a kiss.

Painted by Dimitri Vrubel in 1990, it was restored by the artist in 2009 as part of an ongoing fight to preserve the most famous images in the face of erosion and tagging.

37. Museum of Film and Television

The Deutsche Kinemathek is Germany’s film and television archive, which unveiled its museum in 2006. If you’re enchanted by Weimar-era silent movies like Nosferatu and Metropolis, trailblazers in the horror and sci-fi genres, you owe it to yourself to come for the inside story at the museum.

There are vintage posters, costumes, scene sketches, photos and original props.

One of the biggest stars of the era, Marlene Dietrich has a special place in the exhibition, and there are artefacts from her breakthrough, The Blue Angel and a collection of her personal belongings.

The highlight of the television exhibition is the archive footage of momentous 20th-century events like the fall of the Berlin Wall or Germany winning the World Cup in 1954.

38. Prenzlauer Berg

Somewhere to try and grasp the dizzying speed of change in Berlin since Reunification, Prenzlauer Berg is a former East German neighbourhood.

As a residential area it escaped a lot of the wartime destruction that levelled the rest of the city.

So the dominating five-storey Neoclassical apartment blocks survived, falling into dilapidation on the socialist side of the border.

When the wall came down these blocks and their courtyards were taken over by squatters, whose radical ideals and rough edges have been gradually smoothed out over the last quarter of a century.

Still young, it’s a neighbourhood of leafy streets, artsy boutiques, hookah bars and trendy restaurant concepts.

39. Botanischer Garten

Planted with over 22,000 plant species, Berlin’s 43-hectare botanical garden is heaven on earth for horticulturalists, gardeners and anyone who needs to recharge their batteries.

The garden is in the residential area of Dahlem, having moved from the centre of the city between 1897 and 1910. At this time the largest of the park’s 15 greenhouses, the Große Tropenhaus (Great Tropical House) was raised in a graceful Art Nouveau style.

Its humid interior is 30°C all year, and supports a giant bamboo.

Outside you can get lost in a 14-hectare arboretum, which has the absurdly romantic “Arbour of Roses” at its heart.

And real scholars can immerse themselves in the Botanical Museum, teeming with plant trivia and exhibits like the Prussian royal specimen collection.

40. Stasi Museum

Berlin confronts another difficult period from its past at the former headquarters of the State Security Service for the GDR. At Haus 1 of the Ministry for State of Security, the museum is in a suitably oppressive-looking complex in Lichtenberg, some way east of the centre.

The full scope of the surveillance conducted by the Stasi on the GDR’s citizens and its efforts to infiltrate the west are laid bare.

Anyone who’s into espionage will get a kick out of the miniature cameras, bugs and concealable weapons, and there are explanations of the Stasi’s structure and recruitment methods.

Go upstairs and things get really interesting, as everything has been left exactly as it was in 1989. Desks, chairs, filing cabinets and safes are all in place, and you can step into the office of its head, Erich Mielke, the man known as “The Master of Fear”.

41. Bode Museum

The last of our Museum Island attractions is on the northern tip, and was named for its curator when it first opened in a Neo-Renaissance palace 1904. The focus is on classical sculpture, Byzantine art, Renaissance painting, liturgical art and a massive numismatic collection.

The Italian Renaissance halls are maybe the most accessible for first-timers, and are bursting with frescoes, glazed terracotta and sculptures by artists like Donatello.

Equally spellbinding is the Byzantine art from the 3rd to the 15th centuries made up of carvings, mosaics and painted icons from Greece, the Balkans, Italy, Turkey and Russia.

And as for that coin collection, only 4,000 pieces of the 500,000-strong reserve can be shown.

This was first assembled by the Brandenburg Electors in the 16th century.

42. Kurfürstendamm

Shooting west from the Gedächtniskirche is Berlin’s glitzy and upscale shopping avenue in the Parisian tradition, drawn up at the behest of Otto von Bismarck in the 1880s.

Framing four rows of plane trees are luxury emporia and flagship stores for international mid-market brands like Urban Outfitters and C&A. Next to the Gedächtniskirche is the Europa-Center, Berlin’s oldest shopping mall, beneath a rectangular 1960s skyscraper which is now a protected building.

In the Golden Twenties Kurfürstendamm was Berlin’s hottest entertainment district, and “Theater und die Komödie am Kurfürstendamm” are throwbacks to that era.

Café Kranzler harks back to before the war when it was known as Café des Westens and the haunt of bohemian Berlin’s intellectuals and writers.

43. Hackesche Höfe

Opening onto Hackescher Markt is a chain of eight connected Art Nouveau courtyards, conceived at the turn of the 20th century by the architect August Endel.

Between Rosenthaler Straße and Sophienstraße are bars, clubs, theatres, shops and a cinema, all on courtyards organised according to their occupants: So to explain, a lot of the entertainment is on Courtyard I and II, which stay open at all hours, while the quieter businesses and residential courtyards further back are closed off at night.

After the war Hackesche Höfe was neglected on the GDR side, though its heritage listing meant it couldn’t be torn down.

The courtyards and their beautiful Jugendstil motifs were restored in the 1990s and have become a dynamic testament to a unified Berlin.

44. Museum Berggruen

In 1996 the Jewish native Berliner Heinz Berggruen sold his astounding modern art collection to the Prussian Cultural Heritage Foundation for a nominal sum.

This was a gesture of reconciliation after being forced to flee Berlin in 1933. He left at the age of 18 and became a prominent art patron in the intervening years, making friends with Pablo Picasso and having an affair with Frida Kahlo.

Picasso and Paul Klee are the two stars of his collection, represented by more than 200 pieces.

They are joined by celebrated artists like Seurat, van Gogh, Braque, Cézanne and Matisse Giacometti, whose monumental “Large Standing Woman III” greets you at the entrance.

45. Kreuzberg

Bounded to the east by the Spree, Kreuberg is a neighbourhood that was a little desolate in the 20th century as it was surrounded on three sides by the wall.

The low cost of living appealed to an eclectic mix of immigrants, squatters, anarchist communes, artists and musicians, and Kreuzberg became the centre of Berlin’s counterculture and gay scenes.

With the arrival of start-ups, gentrification has crept in over the last few years, but Kreuzberg still has that communal, creative spirit at shared gardens, cultural centres an markets.

There’s a multicultural mix of restaurants, shops you can’t find anywhere else and countless places to catch live music.

A little more polished, Friedrichshain to the east is packed with museums, and officially has the highest density of nightclubs in Berlin.

Recommended tour : 2.5-Hour Walking Tour through Kreuzberg 61

46. Landwehr Canal

Dug in the 1840s, the Landwehr Canal created a navigable route between Friedrichshain in the east and Charlottenburg in the west.

The canal cuts right through Kreuzberg, and its embankments are calm, green and walkable.

Along the Maybachufer on the south side of the canal there’s a Turkish market on Tuesday and Friday afternoons, which feels like a bazaar and has a cornucopia of Turkish produce and goodies.

Facing Maybuchufer from the north side is Paul-Lincke-Ufer, traced with canal-side cafes and bars, while Fraenkelufer has the vestiges of a synagogue, demolished by the Nazis and with one wing still intact.

47. Brücke Museum

Connoisseurs of Expressionism won’t mind going the extra mile to Dahlem by the Grunewald where there’s a fabulous museum for Die Brücke.

This group of Expressionists was formed in Dresden in 1905 and among its members were some of the most exciting painters of the period, like Ernst Ludwig Kirchner and Emil Nolde.

The museum opened in 1967 and was endowed with the private collections belonging to two of its members, Karl Schmidt-Rottluf and Erich Heckel.

The total reserve of 400 paintings, sculptures, prints and drawings is shown in temporary exhibitions that home in on a specific theme or individual painter.

48. Grunewald

Within walking distance of the Olympic Stadium is the northern cusp of Berlin’s largest green area, sprawling across 3,000 hectares.

Berlin’s streets will seem far away once you’re on a peaceful trail in deep birch and coniferous forest.

And you can thank Berlin’s early-20th-century environmental movement for helping to protect the Grunewald from the city, which was expanding west at the time.

Pack a picnic in summer, as well as your bathing suit on the hottest days as swimming is permitted at Wannsee and Schlachtensee.

There are many more smaller lakes in the forest, like Grunewaldsee, which has the Renaissance Jagdchloss Grunewald on its shore, the oldest palace in Berlin.

It’s one of a host of historic residences either ensconced in the woodland or on its fringes.

49. Teufelsberg

In the northernmost expanse of Grunewald is the extraordinary Teufelsberg, a man-made hill cresting at 120 metres.

When Berlin’s streets were cleared at the end of the war, rubble from some 400,000 bomb-hit buildings was deposited in the forest.

The hill was started in 1950 and the last load of debris was dropped in 1972. That was all dropped on top of an incomplete Nazi military-technical academy, designed by Albert Speer.

Like a lot of Nazi concrete constructions the academy proved too difficult to demolish with explosives so was buried.

In the 1960s an American listening station was built on top, and urban explorers will love pottering around this abandoned site if they don’t mind paying a €8 fee at the gate.

50. Haus der Wannsee-Konferenz

In 1914 the pharmaceutical magnate Ernst Marmlier built himself a luxurious Neoclassical villa on the shore of Wannsee, to the southwest of Berlin.

Not long after this would come into the hands of Nazi-sympathiser Friedrich Minoux, who sold it to the SS during the Second World War.

And that’s how it was involved in one of the grimmest chapters in world history.

The Wannsee Conference in 1942 is where the plan was drawn up for the “Final Solution”. The museum at the villa has documents from the conference and multimedia outlining how the genocide of millions of Jews came about.

The exhibition goes into depth on deportation, concentration camps and life in the ghettos before the Final Solution was put into action.

51. Liebermann-Villa

Also on the lake, next door to the Haus der Wannsee-Konferenz is the summer residence for the eminent German Impressionist, Max Liebermann.

Lovers of his work will be captivated by the garden, which shows up in around 200 of Liebermann’s paintings and has been restored to Max’s early 20th-century designs.

A terrace faces Wannsee, and this is framed by a lovely birch grove on one side and gardens with boxwood hedges on the other.

The artist’s studio holds a poignant exhibition about the Liebermann family’s persecution under by the Nazis, while the top floor has around 40 of Max’s later works and portraits of friends and important figures from the time.

52. Spandau Citadel

Billed as one of the best-preserved Renaissance fortresses in Europe, the Spandau Citadel also contains the oldest surviving building in Berlin.

Julius Tower is the symbol for the citadel, 35 metres high and a remnant from a medieval castle predating the Renaissance fortress by about 300 years.

The four-bastioned stronghold took shape around the tower in the second half of the 16th century, and was besieged by the Swedes in 1674 and taken by Napoleon’s troops in 1806. As you go in, you’ll see how gravestones from a medieval Jewish cemetery were reused in the citadel’s walls, and the Commander’s House chronicles the fortress’ eventful history.

In winter the vaulted cellars are a haven for hundreds of flying fox bats, and there are bat-themed tours for closer look of these harmless creatures.

53. Domäne Dahlem

A trip on the bus or the U3, Domäne Dahlem is a manor house and rural museum on the southwestern fringe of the city.

The oldest architecture in the manor goes back to the 1560s, while the land on its grounds has been farmed for more than 800 years.

Naturally Domäne Dahlem is just the setting for a museum about traditional agriculture and nutrition, dealing with its topics in a smart, creative way.

In the stables is the Culinarium, in which three floors of interactive exhibits and multimedia explain the history of nutrition in Europe, and where our food comes from today.

In the manor house there’s a recreation of a shop from the Renaissance, where a hologram merchant will assist you, and in the grounds is a real blacksmith’s forge and furniture workshop.

54. Schloss Köpenick

On an island in the Dahme River, just before it feeds the Spree, sits the only Baroque palace in Berlin to make it to the 21st century unchanged.

Another residence for the Hohenzollerns, Schloss Köpenick is often referred to as the Water Palace (Wasserschloss) for its picturesque waterside setting, and took on its current form under after a reconstruction ordered by the future Frederick I in the 17th century.

He turned a Renaissance hunting lodge into a plush Baroque residence, adorned with exuberant stuccowork by the Italian decorator Giovanni Caroveri.

Within there’s an exhibition by Berlin’s Kunstgewerbemusuem showcasing applied art from the Renaissance, Baroque and Rococo periods.

55. Käthe Kollwitz Museum

You can pick up the Käthe Kollwitz thread once more at this museum dedicated to the female painter and sculptor.

In a Historicist villa on Fasanenstraße are some 200 woodcuts, paintings, sculptures, graphics and posters.

A member of the Expressionist and then New Objectify movements, Kollwitz spent a lot of her career in Prenzlauer Berg, which was a working class district at the time, and her art gave a voice to the downtrodden during industrialisation.

That empathy shines through in prints like “Brot!”, and the anti-war woodcut cycle “Krieg”. On the top floor, in a gallery drenched with natural light is a well-known two-metre sculpture of Kollwitz by Gustav Seitz.

56. Neue Wache

A good follow-up for the Kollwitz Museum is the Neoclassical temple on Unter den Linden.

The architect behind this monument was Karl Friedrich Schinkel who designed it in the 1810s as a memorial to the fallen soldiers in the Napoleonic Wars and specifically the German Campaign of 1813. The building was also employed as a guardhouse for the troops of the Crown Prince, up to the end of the First World War and the start of the Weimar Republic.

Since 1993 this solemn space has been dedicated to “Victims of War and Dictatorship”. Kollwitz’s sculpture Mother with her Dead Son is the centrepiece under the oculus where it is exposed to the elements to signify the civilian suffering during the Second World War.

57. Friedrichstadt-Palast

You can recapture the spirit of the 1920s at a cabaret show in Berlin.

And while there’s no lack of options the Freidrichstadt-Palast (1919) deserves special mention for the incredible dimensions of the theatre and the lavish revues it puts on.

The stage floor of 2,854 square metres is claimed to be the largest theatre stage in the world.

And if the venue is palatial, the shows are an explosion of glitz and glamour.

The casts are huge, and the costume design, acrobatics and choreography are from a less restrained Las Vegas.

In 2017 the marquee event was Jean Paul Gaultier’s “The One Grand Show”, boasting 500 costumes, more than 100 performers and a multi-million Euro budget.

58. Bauhaus Archive/Museum of Design

The impact of the Bauhaus School (1919-1933) on architecture and design is impossible to overstate, and at the Bauhaus Archive you’ll be treated to the largest assortment of works from the movement.

The venue is from the 1960s and its futuristic appearance and serrated lines have made it a shooting location for movies like Æon Flux and V for Vendetta.

The exhibition meanwhile uncovers the origins of the Bauhaus movement and its key figures, and has models by Ludwig Mies van der Rohe and Walter Gropius.

There’s also art from the period by László Moholy-Nagy, Paul Klee , Kandinsky, Lionel Feininger, along with a complete library for the movement, furniture by Gunta Stölzl, Marcel Breuer and Josef Pohl, sketches, schematics and photography.

59. Hamburger Bahnhof

In 1996 the old terminal for the Berlin-Hamburg Railway reopened as a contemporary art museum.

The distinguished Neo-Renaissance hall became obsolete early on, when trains were re-routed to the Berlin Hauptbahnhof in 1884. After that it served as a museum of transport, which closed following damage in the war.

A donation of contemporary art by Berlin businessman Erich Marx set things in motion again, and there are noteworthy works by Warhol, Robert Rauschenberg, Gerhard Richter, Anselm Kiefer and Joseph Beuys.

Video art, particularly from the 1970s is prominent, along with contemporary photography by Andreas Gursky, Thomas Ruff and Bernd and Hilla Becher.

60. Pfaueninsel (Peacock Island)

Pfaueninsel on the Havel River is part of a World Heritage Site that encompasses Potsdam and Berlin’s stately properties.

Excavations on the island have brought up evidence of occupation from the Iron Age, and in the 1600s it was the site of a royal-approved glassworks founded by the man of science Johannes Kunckel.

But what we see today is straight from the Romantic period at the end of the 18th century when Friedrich Wilhelm II commissioned a summer residence intended to resemble the ruins of a Romanesque castle.

The gardens are in the English style, which was in fashion at the time, and are littered with follies and grottoes, as well as an aviary.

The most famous inhabitants though are the many free-ranging peacocks that give the island its name.

Get there by S-Bahn and on a ferry, which is part of the fun.

61. Strandbad Wannsee

In Berlin’s westernmost borough of Steglitz-Zehlendorf, Wannsee is a neighbourhood beside two lakes on the River Havel.

By Großer Wannsee on the southern limit of Grunewald is the Strandbad Wannsee, affectionately known as Berlin’s “bath tub”. On sunny summer days you can join the herd on the S1 or S7 and wallow in the clean, mostly shallow water and lounge in the sun on the beach.

At more than a kilometre long the lido has been accommodating bathers since 1907. The beach is traced by a promenade and there are sports facilities, boat rentals, playgrounds for little ones and a selection of bars, cafes and kiosks.

Tour starting here : 2-Hour Seven Lakes Tour from Berlin’s Wannsee

62. Tempelhofer Feld

Many of Berlin’s cherished landmarks and public spaces are still here because residents came together to stop developers getting hold of them.

And that is exactly what happened at the city’s former Tempelhof Airport after it was decommissioned in 2008. The airport is now a public park only a few minutes south of Kreuzberg: A generous flat space criss-crossed by former runways and taxiways that are a dream to cycle and skate on, and still commanded by a listed terminal building.

Tempelhof was where the Berlin Airlift of 1948-49 was coordinated, and was the last of Europe’s great pre-war city airports to cease operation as a passenger hub.

63. Story of Berlin

On a jaunt down the swanky Kurfürstendamm you can brush up on the history of Germany’s capital.

Across 23 rooms you’ll be led on a journey through eight centuries, from the first recorded mention of Berlin to German Reunification in 1990. All the facts are relayed via multimedia displays, and if you’re with kids the museum’s short bursts of information and interactivity are ideal for young attention spans.

There are also some fascinating artefacts, like a genuine nuclear bunker from the Cold War, the GDR leader Erich Honecker’s Volvo limousine and pieces of the Berlin Wall.

64. Berliner Funkturm

You don’t need to be an architecture expert to know where the idea for Berlin’s 150-metre-high radio tower came from.

Its designer Heinrich Straumer clearly based his steel framework construction on the Eiffel Tower, and the Berliner Funkturm was inaugurated during the Great German Radio Exhibition in 1926. Not long after, during the 7th edition of the exhibition, Albert Einstein himself gave a speech from the base of the Funkturm.

The tower later made history in 1936 when it transmitted the world’s first regular television programme.

The observation platform is at 124 metres and has a view to rival the Fensehturm, precisely because the Fernsehturm is part of the panorama!

65. Markthalle Neun

This Baltard-style market hall in Kreuzberg first opened in 1891, getting its name from being the ninth of fourteen halls around Berlin.

After the war residents fought off developers for years to preserve this much-loved landmark.

In the end Markthalle Neun was sold to a trio of entrepreneurs who reopened it as a food market in 2011. The venue hosts delectable culinary extravaganzas throughout the year like a wine fair, a cheese festival and a wurst and beer event.

There are stalls selling produce and speciality foods on Tuesdays, Fridays and Saturdays, and the rest of the week you can come for one-off establishments like an Italian bakery, craft beer microbrewery, an artisanal pasta maker and traditional butcher’s shop.

The third Sunday of the month brings a breakfast market, while Thursday nights are all about street food.

Included in this tour : 2.5–Hour Culinary Tour with East Side Gallery

66. Natur-Park Südgelände

After Berlin Anhalter Bahnhof shut down in 1952 its buildings and infrastructure dating back to the 19th century were left to rust and be reclaimed by nature.

The site slowly turned into an unofficial park, before it was properly landscaped in the 1990s.

What’s special about this place is how old industrial structures like a 50-metre water tower, a cavernous locomotive shed, tracks, bridges, a turntable and a DRB Class 50 engine mingle with the woodland and meadows.

The shed is used for markets, avant-garde performance art, and as an atmospheric shooting location for movies.

67. Marx-Engels Forum

A relic from a very different time, the pair of statues depicting Karl Marx and Friedrich Engels stand in the shadow of the Fernsehturm on the right bank of the Spree.

The statues were cast in 1986, not long before the wall came down, and after Reunification there was much discussion about whether to remove them or keep them as a reminder of the past.

Eventually they remained, which makes sense as these two 19th-century figures loomed large over life in Berlin until 1989. The park around it used to be a quarter of the Old Town before it was flattened in the war and it would be three decades before the ruins were cleared and a green space laid out.

68. Oberbaumbrücke

The last of our run-down of Berlin’s postcard-worthy landmarks crosses the Spree between Kreuzberg and Frierichshain.

When Berlin was divided, the border between the former American Zone and East Berlin hugged the right bank of the Spree.

Oberbaumbrücke became an armed checkpoint, only allowing crossings in one direction from West to East.

And when the wall fell in 1989 some of the most memorable images were taken at this location.

Since then road and U-Bahn traffic has resumed, and the bridge has been restored to its 19th-century Gothic Revival appearance.

Movie buffs may also know Oberbaumbrücke from Run Lola Run and the Bourne Supremacy.

69. Currywurst

On the topic of films, if you’ve seen any movies about Berlin you’ll know that there’s always a scene at an Imbiss.

These are temporary snack bars set up on street corners or parks and cooking up comfort food.

In 1949 a German icon was born at an Imbiss on Charlottenburg, when Herta Heuwer poured a mixture of ketchup and curry powder over bratwurst to create the currywurst.

The sausage normally comes chopped up in the sauce and served with a side of French fries, and something like 70 million currywursts are enjoyed every year in Berlin alone.

The exact spot where Herta is said to have made her first currywurst is now marked with a plaque.

70. Street Food auf Achse

The courtyard in Prenzlauerberg’s evocative KulturBrauerei is the scene of a new culinary institution that arrived in Berlin in January 2015. Every other Sunday this space is filled with a cosmopolitan variety of food trucks, fitting for a city as multicultural as Berlin.

There’s food on the go from almost anywhere you can imagine, within reason: We’re talking local faves like currywurst, as well as Vietnamese, Thai, South Korean, Tex-Mex, Polish, Brazilian and almost anything in between.

The trucks show up in every season, rain or shine, but the experience is maybe most satisfying in summer when you can nibble at your own pace at the Frannz Club Biergarten, which has a laid-back atmosphere.

Related activity : Berlin: Evening Food Tour by Bike

71. Gardens of the World

In the eastern Marzahn-Hallersdorg district is a celebration of landscaping and horticulture from all over the globe.

There are gardens from Japan, China, the Middle East, Bali and Italy, faithfully designed, and tended with love and no little skill.

In 2017 a new English garden opened in time for the Internationale Gartenasstellung (International Garden Exhibition). Also installed for 2017 is the IGA Cable Car, which crosses the attraction and connects with the Kienberg U-Bahn station.

The individual gardens have been planted one by one since the Chinese Garden in 2000. There are seasonal events here, like the cherry blossom festival in April and the Chinese moon festival towards the end of summer.

72. Classic Remise

A U-Bahn ride west of the centre will bring you to a 1920s tram depot on Wiebestraße in Moabit.

This industrial building came through the war relatively unscathed and in 2003 became an amenity for storing classic cars.

Even though this facility isn’t actually a museum you’ll come close to a bewildering array of privately-owned Ferraris, Bugattis, Rolls Royces, Mercedes, Lamborghinis, Maseratis, Porsches and many more prestige marques.

These are stored in two-tired, metal-framed glass containers, which regulate temperature and humidity.

Car connoisseurs can also tour the mechanic’s workshop to see these vehicles being serviced and restored.

73. Sanssouci Palace

A day out in Potsdam has to be on the cards, and you can reach this city in under half an hour by commuter train.

The first reason to make the journey is to see Frederick the Great’s UNESCO-listed summer escape, a Rococo palace embedded on a vine-decked hillside atop a terraced stairway . The king would get away from it all at Sanssouci, as the name “sans souci” (carefree) makes clear.

The palace is beautifully formed, but isn’t lavish in scale, which tallies with Frederick’s reputation as a self-effacing sort of person.

There are ten rooms on the tour and a uniting feature is the exuberant stuccowork by the sculptor Friedrich Christian Glume.

See the Voltaire Room, where the French philosopher would stay in the mid-1700s, and the Carrara marble columns in the main reception room, the Marmorsaal (Marble Hall).

Recommended tour : Potsdam: Sanssouci Palace Guided Tour from Berlin

74. Sanssouci Park

One explanation for the relatively modest size of the palace is that the king wanted to make the most of the outdoor space.

That vineyard in front of the palace was planted with vines from France, Italy and Portugal under Frederick’s orders, and beneath this is a Baroque parterre, modelled on Versailles and sprinkled with conical boxwood topiaries and marble statues of mythological figures.

After that you have the enormous expanse of the park to cover, and its fountains, ponds and groves of lofty mature trees.

All over the park are delightful follies of temples and miniature Rococo palaces, which were often used as accommodation to make up for the shortage of guestrooms in the palace itself.

75. Sightseeing by Bike

Germany’s public transport company Deutsche Bahn operates a bike-sharing system in Berlin.

You have to register in advance, but after that you’ll be free to hire a bike and pay by the minute or by the day.

There are also a few private bike rental companies in the city, including Rent a Bike on Grunerstraße.

There’s no reason to feel daunted about cycling in Berlin as the city has almost 1,000 klilometres of designated bike paths, as well as lanes on pavements and on the roads (you can track down plenty of maps online). There’s a deep-seated cycling culture too, and it’s safe enough that people don’t generally wear helmets.

For inspiration on two wheels, you can zip around the sights at Tiergarten and Potsdamer Platz if time is of the essence, or coast around trendy Kreuzberg’s cafes and galleries.

75 Best Things to Do in Berlin (Germany):

• Brandenburg Gate
• Victory Column (Siegessäule)
• Museum Island
• Neues Museum
• Gemäldegalerie
• Gedenkstätte Berliner Mauer
• Pergamon Museum
• Deutsches Historisches Museum
• Memorial to the Murdered Jews of Europe
• Unter den Linden
• Gendarmenmarkt
• Topography of Terror
• Fernsehturm
• Jewish Museum Berlin
• Berlin Cathedral
• Alexanderplatz
• Checkpoint Charlie
• Tränenpalast (Palace of Tears)
• Treptower Park
• Gedächtniskirche
• Olympic Stadium
• Berlin Philharmonie
• Deutsches Technikmuseum
• Charlottenburg Palace
• Kaufhaus des Westens
• Museum für Naturkunde
• Mauerpark Market
• Alte Nationalgalerie
• Konzerthaus Berlin
• Potsdamer Platz
• Sony Center
• East Side Gallery
• Museum of Film and Television
• Prenzlauer Berg
• Botanischer Garten
• Stasi Museum
• Bode Museum
• Kurfürstendamm
• Hackesche Höfe
• Museum Berggruen
• Landwehr Canal
• Brücke Museum
• Teufelsberg
• Haus der Wannsee-Konferenz
• Liebermann-Villa
• Spandau Citadel
• Domäne Dahlem
• Schloss Köpenick
• Käthe Kollwitz Museum
• Friedrichstadt-Palast
• Bauhaus Archive/Museum of Design
• Hamburger Bahnhof
• Pfaueninsel (Peacock Island)
• Strandbad Wannsee
• Tempelhofer Feld
• Story of Berlin
• Berliner Funkturm
• Markthalle Neun
• Natur-Park Südgelände
• Marx-Engels Forum
• Oberbaumbrücke
• Street Food auf Achse
• Gardens of the World
• Classic Remise
• Sanssouci Palace
• Sanssouci Park
• Sightseeing by Bike

Cool Things to Do in Berlin: 48 Quirky & Alternative Spots

Get out of the tourist traps and into authentic, offbeat Berlin. This list of 48 cool things to do in Berlin includes kitschy museums, secret tours, crazy monsters, cold war relics and graffiti all washed down with plenty of beer.

Why Explore Offbeat Berlin?

Why explore these unusual and fun things to do on Berlin? Because the offbeat, out of the ordinary, edgy and alternative are what makes Berlin so unique. The Weimar era of the 1920’s fostered a culture that embraced design, literature, film, an LGBT community and a decadent nightlife. Fortunately, many aspects of that culture survived both WWII and the Cold War.

They say that Austin is weird, but I think Berlin gives Austin some credible competition. I went to Berlin because it’s a major city for street art and seeing their graffiti for myself was very high on my bucket list. But while there, I was delighted to find a city that still has plenty of edge for the discerning traveler, who likes to inject her itineraries with a large dollop of quirk.

So, read on to discover alternative Berlin with recommendations from me and some of my well-traveled blogger buddies.

(This article contains affiliate links. This means that if you choose to purchase, I’ll make a small commission.)

Three Quirky Places to Stay in Berlin

For such a large city, you can still score a pretty great deal on lodging in Berlin. Furthermore, because of it’s quirky, artsy culture, there are tons of properties that have cool design features and staffing with an edge. Here are three such places that will house you in style while you explore all of the following fun things to do in Berlin.

Urban Glamping : Huttenpalast is a fun and funky budget lodging provider. In addition to normal hotel rooms, they have a bunch of adorable little indoor campers (with shared baths). See some pics and check reviews or book on Booking.com .

Spacious Rooms and a BFF Front Desk Guy : The Dude Berlin-Mitte is a great mid-range hotel perfectly located in the sweet spot between Kreuzberg and Mitte. It’s on a quiet street and the rooms are light filled and spacious. The front desk guy is beyond friendly. He has a lot of opinions about what to do in Berlin and he’s not shy about telling you about it. Check reviews or book on Booking.com .

Cool creative space in middle of Kreuzberg : On my most recent visit, we used an Airbnb in Kreuzberg as our base of operations. It’s a really cool neighborhood with good transportation connections and lots of restaurants.

Please be mindful when booking an AirBnB in Berlin. Gentrification has been raising housing prices in what has historically been an inexpensive, artist-friendly city. Read the listings carefully and try to book with a host who is renting his or her own home, rather than with a commercial property manager.

Eight Unusual Places for Exploring Berlin’s Foodie Scene

Eat some currywurst.

Currywurst is a surprisingly delicious concoction of grilled bratwurst loaded with curried ketchup and served with the side of fries. It’s the most prolific street food in Berlin and you can find it anywhere, but check out this article for a list of some of the best stalls.

Get a Million Choices at Street Food Thursday

The Markthalleneun in Kreuzberg offers up a weekly Street Food Thursday, which is quite a scene. During the event, there are more vendors than usual and the market stays open later in order to accommodate the after work crowd. It’s quite a happening with food ranging from the aforementioned currywurst to grilled cheese sandwiches, Thai food, crepes and Italian. I ate the currywurst (above), the Turkish dumplings and the spaetzle. I also stocked our AirBnB with fresh bread, hummus, cheese, veggies and olives.

Tips for visiting : The normal farmer’s market is open Fri/Sat 10a-6p and the Thursday event is open from 5-10pm.

Mauer Park Flea Market

On Sundays, Mauer Park hosts their weekly flea market. It has the usual assortment of used clothes and craftspeople. But what’s even better, is the long row of street food stalls. You can choose from every manner of food, from Mexican to falafal, washed down with beer, coffee or ice cream. You can also have a seat and a pint at the Mauersegler Berlin beer garden.

Tips for visiting : Open 10a-6p on Sundays only

Slow Down for Brunch at Distrikt Coffee

Distrikt Coffee is located in the Prenzlauer Berg neighborhood. They brew a perfect cup of strong coffee and their breakfast food is to die for. The french toast with fruit compote will spoil you forever and the avocado toast as truly surprising flavors on fresh chewy bread.

Tips for visiting : Distrikt Coffee isn’t far from the Hamberger Baunhauf and ME Collection (both noted below) so you can breakfast there before exploring the neighborhood. Open 8a-4p weekdays and from 9:30a on weekends.

Mediterranean Brunch at Cafe Mugrabi

This small cafe is located in Kreuzberg. They offer southeastern Mediterranean breakfast specialties like Shakshuka and Hummus Sabich. The food is so good there that I dug right in and forgot to take a picture (both times!). Trust me, it’s awesome. On nice days, they have sidewalk patio seating that overlooks Gorlitzer park.

Tips for visiting : Open daily 10a-6p. Not great for large groups.

Be a Chocoholic at Fassbender & Rausch

(Recommended by Laura of Travelers Universe)

If you love chocolate, there’s no sweeter place in Berlin than Fassbender & Rausch. This is the largest chocolate shop in the world and their popular upstairs café upstairs is an amazing place to relax after a day of sightseeing. The café serves some of the best hot chocolate money can buy and if you visit Berlin during winter, this is the perfect place to warm yourself up.

Pop downstairs to buy a traditional marzipan chocolate heart and marvel at all the chocolate sculptures on display before hitting the  Christmas markets . In summer, well, you’ll have to make do with the 200+ varieties of filled chocolates, truffles, and delicious cakes.

Tips for visiting : Open Mon-Sat 10a-8p, Sun 11a-8p.

Take a Local Food Tour

Rather than taking my word for it, let a local be your guide to Berlin’s foodie scene. Do one of these tours early in your visit, then go back later and revisit your favorite place. Kreuzberg Food Tour : This is an AirBnB experience tour offered by Gökçen, who has been doing food tours for ten years. This tour explores Berlin’s immigrant history with 3-4 stops that are off the tourist trail. Book it here .

Craft Beer Tour : This is not a pub crawl, but rather an education in Berlin’s centuries old brewing tradition. The tour wanders Prenzlauer Berg and visits three brew pubs and beer bars with the opportunity to check out five beers. Book it here .

Four Cool Things to Do in Berlin that Explore the Cold War

Tour the stasi prison.

The Berlin-Hohenschönhausen Memorial is located on the site of the former Stasi Prison. It was used as a camp during WWII and was later converted into a secret prison. The Stasi was fueled by paranoia and they used the prison to interrogate and torture political prisoners prior to executing or transferring them elsewhere.

Their tours offer an informative, and very sobering account of the fragility of human rights and public discourse in East Berlin during the cold war.

Tips for visiting : They offer tours in English only at specific times of the day, check their website for the latest info . Give yourself at least :45 minutes to get out there on the tram.

Take a Cold War Berlin Architecture Tour

(Recommended by Abigail King of Inside the Travel Lab)

The Cold War in Berlin wasn’t just about the wall: architecture across east and west became ensnared in the ideological battle. On this Context Travel architectural tour (run by qualified academics), not only will you see a side of Berlin that most others miss but it’s also a quick and fascinating way to see Berlin in one day.

At the end of the World War Two, one of Berlin’s many problems included the 1.5 million people left homeless and in desperate need of accommodation. A housing space race began, with butch ceramics of the Soviet drive for conformity competing with individualistic design in the West.

The “East” side begins in Karl-Marx Allee, a broad, stern street with a small café that contains part of Stalin’s statue moustache. The west takes in the Hansa Quarter, an ambitious social housing project involving Alvar Aalto and Oscar Niemeyer.

Pro Tip : Wear comfortable walking shoes as you cover a lot of ground. Also, ask them about the underground station tour. Book the tour here .

Channel Your Inner Bond at the German Spy Museum

The Spy Museum is pretty touristy, and I can’t see a local going there…but it’s worth a visit anyway. I expected a lot of kitsch, which it certainly delivers, but the museum is also stuffed full of hands-on exhibits demonstrating spycraft. They have stories about famous (and infamous) spies and the ingenious devices that they used to: listen in on, take pictures of and transport secret information. They even have a brassiere spy camera!

Tips for visiting : It’s easy to find on Potsdamer Platz and is open daily 10am-8pm.

Learn About Life in the DDR

Like the Spy Museum, the DDR museum is pretty kitschy. But it provides an interesting insight into what it was like living in East Berlin during the Cold War. You can take a virtual drive on Berlin’s streets by sitting in an ancient Trabant car (which my husband could barely wedge himself into). There are exhibits on daily life, education (and indoctrination), the media and even a full sized sample apartment.

Tips for visiting : The museum is very near to the . It’s open 9a-9p everyday.

What to Do in Berlin if You Like Edgy Art: 10 Crazy Spots

Take a goofy shot in a photoautomat.

These old school photo booths are littered across Berlin, just keep your eyes open and pop into the first available booth. It ain’t an Annie Liebowitz portrait, but it only costs €2 and it’s a fun souvenir.

See Wacky Creatures at the Monsterkabinett

The Monsterkabinett feels like the animatronic designers from Disneyworld took a maker class, did some peyote and then went to Burning Man. And…that’s all I’m going to tell you about it other than to demand that you go and see it.

Tips for visiting : They run a loose operation with an erratic schedule, usually from 4pm (or sometimes 6pm) to 9:30pm. Check their schedule here . Go early to the courtyard to buy tickets and then have a drink at the nearby bar while you wait.

Check out the Neurotitan Gallery

While you’re waiting to get into the Monsterkabinett, check out the Neurotitan Gallery. They specialize in edgy urban art and site-specific installations that blend sculpture, painting and street art. The stairwell leading up to the gallery is chock full of graffiti and there is also a cool boutique on the same floor.

Tips for visiting : Open Mon-Sat 12-8p.

Find Contemporary Art, Collections and a Cafe at the ME Collection

The ME Collection houses the private Olbricht collection, which includes works from the 16th century to today. The collection also features an offbeat cabinet of curiosities housing 300 objects (including an alleged unicorn) from the Renaissance and Baroque periods. They also have a museum store with cute gifts and kids books as well as a cozy cafe. After a couple of hours spent walking around, we gladly hung out in their easy chairs, perusing their pile of art books.

The collection is on Auguststraße (northeast of Hackescher Markt) and the whole street is full of other galleries, so you can make a slow afternoon of window shopping for art.

Tips for visiting : Open Wednesday-Monday 12-6p.

Wander Through the Parliament of Trees

(Recommended by Corina of Another Milestone )

Located on the shore of Spree river in Berlin, across from the Reichstag building, the Parliament of Trees can easily be taken for a garden and overlooked by passers by. But it’s is actually a work of art created by Ben Wagin as a memorial for the victims of the Berlin Wall. 16 trees (for 16 federal states) were planted, symbolizing the unification of Germany.

The garden is bordered by a granite wall formed of authentic pieces from the Berlin Wall. The blocks are painted with scenes from the Wall’s history and it features the number of victims who died before the wall was finally demolished. Visitors can sit down on the bench and discover the different elements of the garden. It’s not popular, but it’s one of the more interesting places to visit in Berlin for those who want to know more about Berlin’s history.

Tips for visiting : This is an easy add-on if you are also visiting the nearby Brandenberg Gate. Open Friday-Sunday 11a-5p.

See Contemporary Art at the Hamburger Bahnhauf

There are 200 art museums in Berlin. You could spend your whole itinerary hopping from one to the next. I’m calling out the Hamburger Bahnhauf as one of the more interesting places in Berlin, not only for its thought provoking contemporary exhibits but also its lovely architecture. The Neoclassical building used to be a train station, and was re-purposed into the museum in the 1980’s. They feature audacious contemporary works created since 1960 and have a large collection of sculptures, photography and paintings.

Tips for visiting : The basic exhibitions ticket is €14 but they upsell for special exhibitions at €8 each.

See Contemporary Art in an Old WWII Bunker

Contemporary art is often created with surprise in mind, and indeed it was certainly surprising to explore the Sammlung Boros collection. They have chosen to exhibit the works in a stark concrete building that was built as a WWII bunker. During the Cold War, it was repurposed by the Red Army into a prisoner of war camp. During the ’50’s it served as cold storage for bananas and in the 90’s it became a techno club.

Christian Boros purchased the building in 2003 and re-modeled it for his private family collection. This art is as edgy as the sharp concrete corners of the building itself. I didn’t love it all, but it was certainly worth seeing. And I did love learning about the history of the building.

Tips for visiting : They strictly meter the visitors and you must get a reservation , which I recommend that you do way in advance.

Enter a Parallel Universe in the Kcymaerxtheare

Are you willing to go way off the beaten path in search of an alternative universe? Good. Then take the U-Bahn and then a bus and then walk yourself to the Malzfabrik complex. This old beer factory has been re-purposed into a creative urban industrial zone.

But Malzfabrik has a crack in the space/time continuum with a parallel universe called the Kcymaerxthaere shimmering just under the surface. This work of extreme imagination was designed by Eames Demetrios. It’s a story telling art project featuring the lives, loves and wars of the Kcymaerxthaere.

The placque at Malzfabrik commemorates the Bravenleavanne. They believed in good deeds for their own sake—not just for reward or fear of punishment. When they became too materialistic, they fled in horror from what we call Britain to start afresh here.

This project has kooky written all over it and you can get on the bandwagon not only in Berlin, but also in Joshua Tree, California , where I found the Krablin Kabin, the abandoned hut of a religious prisoner-of-war. There are also 141 other locations around the world .

Tips for Visiting : Best to go during the workday and they also runs tours twice a month .

Find Edgy Art in the Bathanien

The Bathanien is a contemporary and performing arts venue in the gentrified Kreuzberg district. Their mission is to provide work space for professional artists, project workshops and exhibition space. This 19th century monster of a building was originally a welfare hospital.

When the hospital closed in the 70’s, the building was slated for demolition, but a neighborhood effort saved it. It’s worth wandering the halls to feel Kreuzberg’s history, but be sure to go into the East Wing exhibition spaces to see what’s on.

Tips for visiting : The exhibition rooms are open Tuesday-Sunday 2-7pm.

Find some Whimsy at the Zozoville Gallery

Artists Johan Potma and Mateo Dineed call Zozoville a “…platform for freaks, misfits, and the occasional well balanced individual”. True that.

This gallery is stuffed full of friendly monsters in a modern incarnation of Maurice Sendak’s “Where the Wild Things Are” (which is the best children’s book ever). The gallery sells prints, children’s books, postcards and furry pillows.

Tips for Visiting : They are located in the Friedrichshain neighborhood, not far from Urban Spree (pictured below). Open Monday-Saturday 12-7p.

Eight Cool Places in Berlin for Exploring Urbex, Graffiti & Street Culture

Spotting street art and graffiti.

Checking out the graffiti and street art is the coolest of cool things to do in Berlin. The modern graffiti movement may have been birthed in New York City , but they have perfected it in Berlin. The city’s post-cold war economic dis-affectation, abandoned buildings and a bohemian culture provided the perfect fertilizer for Berlin’s street art.

There is no one district for street art because it’s spread all over the city, particularly on and east of where the wall had been. Look for it in Kreutzberg, on the East Side Gallery, near Urban Spree in Friedrichshain, Mauer Park, the alleys near the Monsterkabinett and on the streets in Schöneberg around the Street Art Museum (noted below).

Get motivated to see Berlin street art with my guide. Then do a deep dive into Berlin’s graffiti scene by taking a tour with Alternative Berlin. They have two tours (I took both) and each covers a different aspect of street art.

Tour #1 : This one focuses on Urban Spree and Friedrichshain, which also includes a workshop where you can make your own stencil. Book it here .

Tour #2 : This one covers a little of Friedrichshain but focuses more on Kreuzberg and Schöneberg (near the Urban Nation street art museum). Book it here .

Visit the Urban Nation Street Art Museum

Urban Nation has a long history of curating murals and street art festivals not only in Berlin, but also in places like Reykjavik Iceland . They have upped the ante in Berlin with the opening of the Street Art Museum on Bülowstraße street in Schöneberg. The museum celebrates both local and global artists, including pieces by artists like Shepard Fairey and FinDac, They also have a stunningly complicated mural by Dima Rebus on the exterior.

Tips for Visiting : The museum is free and open Tues-Sun 10a-6p. Be sure to leave time for wandering along the street between the Bülowstraße and U Nollendorfplatz metro stations because you’ll find a TON of murals there.

Crawl Around the Abandoned Teufelsberg Listening Station

If you like both graffiti and URBEX, then you should absolutely visit the abandoned Teufelsberg Listening Station- I found it to be one of the most cool things to do in Berlin. Teufelsberg is an old listening and broadcasting post used by the US during the cold war. They used the station to listen in on Eastern European signals and also broadcast US propaganda into the east. It was abandoned by the Americans when the cold war ended.

It’s been unofficially taken over by a collective of street artists, URBEX fanatics and entrepreneurs. You pay a small fee to enter and can then wander freely around the site. They even have a little barbecue joint where you can get food and drink. It reminded me of Slab City, California , with it’s squatters vibe and freewheeling ethic.

Tips for visiting : It’s a 35 minute train ride into the suburbs and then a 30 minute walk through the woods to the site. Give yourself at least two hours once there.

Take a Tour and Learn About Secret Berlin

Berlin Underworlds Association Tours : These tours are recommended by Becki Enright from Borders of Adventure. Given Berlin’s huge alternative scene, it’s no surprise that underground’ tours are a thing – specifically relating to the Metro system. These tours are run by the Underworlds Association, whose aim it is to reveal the rich history beneath the surface of the city. Think war bunkers and air raid shelters, alongside escape routes for those trying to get to the other side of the wall – which is the tour I highly recommend for a different perspective of the city’s history. Learn more about the Berlin Underground Tours .

Hidden Spots in Tempelhof Airport : Get access to the bunkers and tunnels lurking in the former airport buildings at Tempelhof and learn about its role during WWII. Book the tour here .

Street Photography in Fredrichshain : This tour is hosted by Médine, who will give you a primer on street style photography and take you around their home neighborhood. Book the tour here .

Six Alternative Nightlife Options

Go to a beer garden that isn’t the prater.

The Prater is one of the oldest beer gardens in Berlin and it’s very popular with tourists. Why not explore a few of Berlin’s many neighborhood beer gardens that cater more to locals?

The Republic Berlin is located just down the street from the Dude Hotel (above) and the Tresor club (below). They have tables as well as Adirondack chairs for lounging. They offer a rotating menu of food and plenty of craft beers on tap.

Birgit and Beer is in southern Kreuzberg. They have a guy making great pizza with have tons of tables and soft seating spread around a rather large area.

Restaurant Brachvogel Betrieb is right on the Landwehr canal. They have indoor and outdoor seating and an attached mini-golf course.

Drink for Cheap by Treating a Convenience Store Like a Bar

Like everywhere else in the world, Berlin convenience stores sell the usual deadly selection of cigarettes, snacks and beer. Unlike everywhere else however, at night they convert into sidewalk bars. Most of the stores have a picnic table or chairs set up on the sidewalk. You can simply purchase a beer from the cooler and hang out on the sidewalk drinking it. Much cheaper than a bar and great for people watching.

Go Techno at Tresor Nightclub

(Recommended by Dave Anderson of Jones Around the World)

Berlin is arguably the weirdest and wildest city in the world, especially when it comes to their nightlife industry. It’s a crazy scene out there, and I truly believe that if you haven’t been out to one of the dozens of techno clubs, than you haven’t fully experienced the essence of Berlin! I’ll never forget my first time going out in the city, and being truly amazed at this popular techno club called Tresor. 

At Tresor, the “headliners” of the evening don’t start until 5A.M, and there was nothing but heavy Germany industrial techno blasting from the speakers. Then when I tried to leave, I accidentally stumbled upon their basement stage that felt so surreal like it was a movie set with the DJ playing behind prison bars, dancers in cages, and so much smoke you could barely see. 

Tips for Clubbing : Tresor is one of the main  Berlin  clubs which is a bit easier to get into for tourists. However, the hardcore techno fans looking for a weekend filled with debauchery try to get into the infamous Berghain club (where it’s common for people to arrive on Friday night, and leave on Monday morning). If you enjoy Gay nightclubs, check out this guide for Gay Berlin , it has a ton of suggestions for bars and nightclubs.

Learn About Berlin’s Sexual Identity

Prior to WWII, Berlin had a rich history as a sexually permissive town. That sexual freedom ended with the Nazis. But Berlin rebounded and this tour explores it’s sexual identity, the “Institute of Sexual Science”, how the AIDS epidemic affected Berlin, and the LGBTQ community. The tour is run by Jeff, a sociologist and student of gender, queer studies and sexuality. Book the tour here .

Three of the Kitschiest Museums Ever

Hang out with the hoff at the david hasselhoff museum.

(Recommended by Jonathan Sacks of Everybody Hates a Tourist)

In 1989, the Berlin Wall fell. That summer, David Hasselhoff’s “Looking for Freedom” topped the German charts. The Circus Hostel has commemorated this shared history by opening the free  David Hasselhoff Museum . The museum features Hoff memorabilia from throughout his career, including Knight Rider, Baywatch, his musical career, and the fall of the Berlin Wall. It only takes 5 minutes to see, and worth it if you are near Rosenthaler Platz.

Tips for Visiting : The museum is in the basement of the hostel and it’s open 24/7, so you can visit after a late night out.

Find Vintage PacMan at the Computerspiele Museum

(Recommended by Margherita Ragg of The Crowded Planet)

Berlin is full of crazy sights and activities, and one of my favorites is the Computerspiele Museum on Karl Marx Allee, which also happens to be one of my favorite streets in Berlin.

This museum is dedicated to video games. It includes the very first games developed in the fifties, with nothing but blinking lights, to the most modern VR affairs with special goggles. There are exhibits and information panels detailing the history and development of gaming, plus plenty of games you can just play at will…whether you want to have a go at the original Super Mario in a replica 1980s bedroom, or prefer to play some new football or racing game.

Nostalgia lovers should make a beeline to enter the replica arcade, with true vintage games like Frogger and PacMan. Spending a day at the Computerspiele Museum is definitely one of the  coolest things to do in Berlin in winter!

Tips for Visiting : Avoid the weekend when it’s full of families and plan to spend at least a half a day there playing the games.

Read More : If you like kitschy museums and offbeat adventures, check out this list of weird things to do in San Francisco and this one for Reykjavik .

Two Secret Places for Taking a Chill Pill

Hang out on the landwehr canal.

The Landwehr Canal bisects Kreauzberg and Schöneberg like a green chill machine. All along the canal are walking paths, trees and green spaces which are perfecting for hanging out. There is a particularly nice stretch in Statthaus Böckler Park. You can have a drink in the Brachvogel Betrieb beer garden or on one the restaurant barges which are parked along the canal.

Tips for Visiting : Perfect for a warm summer evening and bring something to sit on.

Take in the Baths at the Liquidrom

(Recommended by Inma Gregorio of A World to Travel)

Liquidrom is a wellness complex that includes several saunas, spa, and an impressive flotation room with underwater music.

Like many German baths, you must enter the saunas naked but you’ll find a fairly respectful audience and very clean and well-maintained facilities. I also recommend that you leave quite some time to enjoy the large flotation pool (with a bathing suit). It has a relaxing, spacey vibe and is perfect for for  Berlin in the winter .

Tips for Visiting : It costs €20 for a two hour visit in the spa and sauna.

Two Ways Get Great Berlin Views

Views from the Reichstag

The Reichstag is the German parliament building and they offer free tours and fantastic 360′ views of Berlin. This building was gutted during the second world war. It sat forlorn through much of the Cold War. But with reunification, came a renewed effort to move Germany’s capital back to Berlin.

They kept the older building facade but the interior is all new. They have also built a stunning reflective dome on the roof. A gentle ramp winds you in circles so that you can see the full scope of Berlin. I recommend timing your tour so that you can be in the dome for sunset. It takes advance planning to get a reservation slot, but it’s worth it.

Tips for visiting : Book your reservations here . Open daily 8am-midnight.

Views from Berliner Dom

If you can’t get a reservation for the Reichstag, go to the Berliner Dom instead. Berlin’s Catholic cathedral has a beautiful interior, but even better, you can climb up one of the domes for a 360′ view of Berlin.

Tips for Visiting : The ticket is €7 and their opening hours vary, so check their website for current info .

Getting Around Berlin

Berlin’s public transportation system is excellent and inexpensive. While they do have Uber there, using a combination of trams, buses and trains will be the best way to get around this sprawling city.

They run on an honor system. This means that you need to have a valid ticket, but you don’t need to tag on/off when you use the public transportation. However, they do spot check and they will fine you if you aren’t carrying a valid ticket. They have zone pricing and everything on this list of cool things to do in Berlin are within the “AB zone” ticket.

A single ticket is ~€3, however it will be much more convenient if you purchase an all-day or multi-day ticket. You can purchase a single day ticket for €7. On my recent trip, I was there for six days and purchased the 7-day €30 ticket. I used public transport ~4 times per day, which means that the pass paid for itself on the third day of my visit.

Enjoy all of the weird that Berlin has to offer and habe Spaß (have fun).

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Friday 30th of August 2019

Cheers for this Article! I love learning about new places and I don't know a lot about Berlin.

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Berlin Hidden Gems: 25 Unusual Things To Do In Berlin

Table of Contents

This post may contain affiliate links to things like tours, hotels, Amazon associates and products. These help me earn a small commission at no additional charge to you.

Berlin is a city with many popular tourist attractions, but there are also plenty of hidden gems in Berlin and lesser-known attractions.

BERLIN QUICK LINKS Accommodation: Booking.com / Hostelworld Tours: GetYourGuide / FreeToursByFoot Food experiences: EatWith Copy of Lonely Planet Berlin Getting there: flight ( Skyscanner ), train ( RailEurope ), bus ( FlixBus )

As my plane landed on the Berlin runway, my feelings were mixed. On the one hand, my arrival meant I’d officially left my beloved Asia behind after 13 months living there. On the other, it meant my Europe backpacking adventures were about to begin. With the promise of hearty German food and unusual things to do in Berlin, I couldn’t feel too down in the dumps. It was my second time in Berlin, the capital of Germany . Since I’d seen all the tourist highlights before, I decided to focus on the more alternative things to do in Berlin which I’d missed last time. Follow along with me for hidden gems in Berlin that often get overlooked!

Map of unusual things to do in Berlin

Alternative things to do in Berlin

Once I was checked in to my accommodation, it was time to explore . Even though it was still early, I was still on Asia time meaning it was already my late afternoon. So, not knowing when I was going to wilt, I headed out to find alternative things to do in Berlin. These are the coolest places to enrich your Berlin bucket list ! Explore quirky Berlin with a guide:

Explore Kreuzberg & Orienstrasse

My accommodation was located in Kreuzberg. Since I was on the hunt for quirky places in Berlin, this couldn’t have been better. Known for its artists, students and Turkish population, this part of Berlin is quirky, colourful and full of tasty hummus, falafel and shawarma. You’ll find street art galore and hipster bicycles lent against retro shop fronts. There’s an abundance of cafes, restaurants and bars all with outdoor seating, as well as boutiques, bookshops and record stores.

Suggested activity: Take an alternative bike tour of Kreuzberg

Oranienstraße is a particularly cool part of Kreuzberg. This long street technically stretches all the way from Checkpoint Charlie to Kreuzberg so you can walk the whole way if you want, though the first half would be less interesting. 

Oranienstraße becomes lively with lots of bars spilling out onto the streets. Arrive into Moritzplatz station and you’ll be in the thick of alternative Berlin.

Indulge in the vegan food scene

While vegan food is hardly unusual these days, the vegan scene in Berlin started with quirky pop-up cafes that have now become popular with people of all ages, but particularly the younger generation. While exploring the quirky places in Berlin, you’ll stumble across plenty of vegan cuisine. I visited Brammibal’s Donuts , a hidden Berlin gem in Kreuzberg beside the river, where I tucked into the most divine cherry cream glazed doughnut. Other vegan doughnut flavours include blackberry and matcha, raspberry pistachio and salted caramel hazelnut.

Suggested tour: Berlin vegan food tour

Markthalle Neun

If you’re looking for unusual things to do in Berlin, it doesn’t get better than a 120-year-old historic market full of hipster street food. Head down on Tuesdays, Fridays and Saturdays for a weekly market, and all other days (apart from Sundays) for general food stalls.

At Markthalle Neun there are German and Italian delicacies, craft beer, deli goods, pulled pork, vegan food and more. Seriously, come hungry! I wasn’t quite there after my Brammibals doughnut and that, my friends, was a crying shame. Don’t forget to snap some photos in the photoautomat booth.

Looking for foodspiration? Check out EatWith ‘s immersive food experiences by locals. From supper clubs to food crawls and cooking classes, there are some fantastic options.

Wander The East Side Gallery

It’s not exactly alternative Berlin: in fact, the East Side Gallery is one of the most popular places to visit. Still, there’s street art which makes it a cool, quirky place in my book. This open-air gallery on a 1,316m remaining section of the Berlin wall displays the work of artists from all around the world. Street art is renowned for telling stories, few of which are as important as the tale of the Berlin Wall.

Set your Google Maps to the East Side Gallery and spend an hour or so strolling while taking in the artwork.

HolzMarkt 25

Once you’ve had your fill of urban art at East Side Gallery, you’re really close to Holzmarkt 25 . This awesome outdoor market, meeting spot and bar is slightly off the beaten track in Berlin since it’s mainly locals who know about it. By the venue’s own admission, they’re fighting to save alternative venues in Berlin during an era of inflated rents and chain establishments invading the city.

So, to support the hidden places of Berlin and have a refreshing beer on the banks of the Spree, come down to Holzmarkt 25 from 2pm on weekdays and 1pm on Fridays and Saturdays.

Klunkerkranich rooftop bar

To finish your day at one of the coolest hidden places in Berlin, you could consider visiting a rooftop bar for views over the city. If that sounds good to you, I’d suggest Klunkerkranich on the rooftop of Neukölln Arcaden shopping centre .

Rather than a fancy sky bar, this hidden gem in Berlin is hipster-friendly. It’s tricky to locate but once you’ve taken the lift to the top floor and walked through the parking lot, you’ll find the entrance to the bar. The views out over the city are unrivalled, especially on a clear summers day. There’s a cover charge of $5 to enter Klunkerkranich. It’s right beside Rathaus Neukölln station so jump on a Metro from wherever you’ve been previously.

Stay in a refurbished caravan

For a quirky place to stay in Berlin, you can’t do better than the cosy caravans at Huttenpalast. Not only did I have a comfy double bed, but there were quirky furnishings and hot showers. Not the caravan life I’m used to but no complaints here. Check availability here . These next quirky places in Berlin were contributed by some of my favourite fellow travel bloggers…

The Stand By Me Tree

With its beautiful open spaces, tree-lined paths and boating lake, Berlin’s Tiergarten Park is the perfect escape from the busy city streets. One of the most unique things to see in Berlin is the Stand By Me Tree, located in the heart of the park with the opening lyrics of Ben E King’s iconic Stand By Me etched in its bark.  The tree grew in popularity after the death of Ben E King in 2015 and the chorus ‘Darling, darling, stand by me’ was etched on a second tree nearby. It can be quite difficult to locate the Stand By Me Tree in the 520-acre tree-filled park. Luckily the pathways are named and it is close to the intersection of Großer Weg and Großer Sternallee. The tree is about a 10-minute wall from the park entrance just off the roundabout at Victory Column. The pathways are named on Google Maps and the tree is located just off the side of the path. Entry submitted by David from Your Ireland Vacation .

Explore Teufelsberg

Another of the most unusual things to do in Berlin is find Teufelsberg , a site layered with history and modern quirkiness on a massive hill in the outskirts of the city.

Teufelsberg was the construction site of a planned Nazi military and technology college. The occupying forces attempted to demolish the building but were unable. Instead, they filled the building with rubble from war-torn Berlin and formed a man-made hill. It was covered with fill and trees were planted on the site that became one of the highest points in the American sector of West Berlin.

In 1961, the hill’s strategic importance stood out to American and British military figures. They built a secret spy tower and listening station on the site. It was constructed under the guise of a weather station and the East Germans and Russians were spied on until the end of the Cold War in 1989.

Once the Berlin Wall fell, the site was abandoned and changed hands several times. Today it is privately owned, but you can visit this Berlin off the beaten path attraction and check out the grounds and tower. It features several floors of street art as you ascend the spy tower. Entry submitted by Derek and Mike from Robe Trotting.

Take a small group tour to Teufelsberg .

Take a Cold War bunker tour

Dive into the dark past of Berlin and descend into its labyrinth of underground tunnels with Berliner Unterwelten. During a Berlin bunker tour , you’ll see how West Berlin prepared itself for the Cold War. With Russia threatening to use nuclear weapons, special bunkers were built throughout the continent. Often using vast empty spaces in the Berlin subway system, these bunkers were fitted with the most basic amenities. Only able to hold a limited number of people, the locations of these shelters weren’t even always disclosed to civilians. While the guide leads you through inconspicuous-looking doors of the fully operating metro stations, you’ll discover there’s a whole different world hiding behind them. Covered in cobwebs, the Cold War bunkers are intriguing relics of a slightly mythical event in European history. Situated underground, the Cold War bunker tour is quite literally a hidden gem in Berlin! Entry submitted by Zarina from Miss Travel Clogs .

Browse Cold War Berlin tours .

Visit the Waterfall at Viktoriapark

This lesser-known waterfall with a 79-feet drop is located at Viktoriapark in the borough of Friedrichshain-Kreuzberg. Viktoriapark is free to visit and includes the highest hill of the inner core of Berlin, offering great views of the city. The park is a quiet oasis within the bustling city of Berlin and invites for a little break to relax. By walking 5 minutes, you can visit to the former airport Berlin-Tempelhof, the Bergmannkiez (a famous area for cafés, restaurants and clubs) and Schwerbelastungskörper (the location the Nazis were planning to erect a gigantic triumphal arch in this area). Entry submitted by Chris from Punta Cana Travel Blog .

Berlin Street Art Tour & Workshop

Another option for visitors looking for alternative things to do in Berlin is a street art tour. There are a wide variety of tours to help you experience the hidden gems of Berlin. Many of the guides are street artists themselves (although they won’t disclose who they are).

After exploring the East Side, a fun option is to take a tour which includes the chance to create your own mural. You’ll be able to pick a stencil, trace it and then spray paint your design. Your guide will show you all of the various techniques. The street art workshop provides a wonderful way to not only visit unusual places in Berlin, but learn a new skill, too. Entry submitted by Kim from My Global Ways .

Book a Berlin street art walking tour .

The Parliament Of Trees

Located on the shore of Spree river in Berlin, across the Reichstag building, the Parliament of Trees is easily included in your Berlin itinerary . It’s often mistaken as a garden, but this Berlin hidden gem is actually a work of art created by Ben Wagin as a memorial for the victims of the Berlin Wall. Sixteen trees (for each federal state) were planted inside symbolising the unification of Germany.

The garden is bordered by a granite wall formed of authentic parts of the Berlin Wall. The blocks are painted with scenes from the Wall’s history and with the number of victims who died before the wall was demolished. Visitors can sit down on the bench and discover the different elements of the garden. 

The Parliament Of Trees may be off the beaten path in Berlin, but it’s an important landmark for those who want to know more about Berlin’s history and especially for those who are interested in Berlin Wall.

Entry submitted by Corina from Another Milestone.

Relax at Badeschiff

As if quirky Berlin wasn’t cool enough already, there’s a swimming pool in the river and a city beach! Badeschiff means ‘bathing ship’ and refers to the mechanism of the floating swimming pool in the river. The Spree is not clean enough to swim in so the inventive Berliners found a way to get around that: swimming in a beautiful and clean pool with views of the river.

The whole area around the pool works as a beach bar. There’s sand on the ground, a bar with plenty of drink options and sunbeds to relax anytime. The actual swimming pool is 2.1m deep and only for swimmers.

Since the capacity of the Badeschiff is limited, it’s best to buy a ticket online. As of 2021, time-slots of two hours are available for purchase for €6.50. The Badeschiff can be found on the river Spree in the East of Berlin, in front of Arena Berlin. The closest S-Bahn stop is Treptower Park.

Entry submitted by Veronika from Travel Geekery .

Wander Hackesche Höfe

Since much of Berlin was rebuilt after WWII, you’ll see a lot of 1960s and 70’s ‘modern’ architecture with a sprinkling of some older styles. What you don’t expect is an Art Nouveau complex but that’s exactly what you get with Hackesche Höfe. This hidden gem in Berlin is located next to the Hackescher Market in Mitte district, featuring eight central interconnected courtyards. This style of architecture dates back to the 18th century when it marked significant expansion in Berlin. Although the structure itself was fairly traditional for the area, it was designed with a modern art deco facade that’s rare in Berlin. Luckily, the damage during the war was minor and was it was restored in the late 1990. Hackesche Höfe is now a vibrant community home to an eclectic mix of cafes, shops, apartments, businesses, cultural institutions and a cinema. You’re free to wander the area at no cost. Entry submitted by Sam from My Flying Leap .

Hidden courtyards

In addition to Hackesche Höfe, there are several hidden backyards in Berlin sprinkled with quirky street art, unusual architecture and niche museums. Discovering them is a fantastic way to get off the beaten track in Berlin, soaking up the atmosphere of the city and leaving other tourists far behind. Since they’re hidden by nature, it’s a good idea to take a small group backyards tour with a Berlin guide .

Trabi Safari

Another unusual way to experience Berlin is by going on a Trabi safari. The Trabant, affectionately known as the Trabi, was the car of the former DDR (East Germany). These vehicles were highly coveted with a waiting period of up to 15 years, and while they weren’t known for their reliability, there is a sense of nostalgia about them. 

Today, tour operators allow you to relive the magic of these one-of-a-kind vehicles. The excursions are typically safari-style where you have a lead guide and driver, and everyone follows behind in their own Trabant. You get a quick driving lesson at the start of the tour as this is a rather unusual car. Over the course of the Trabi safari, you get to see some of Berlin’s top tourist attractions . At the end of the excursion, you receive a Trabant driver’s license as a souvenir. Entry submitted by Audrey from That Backpacker.

Zauberkönig Magic Store

One of the best places to shop for Berlin souvenirs is Zauberkönig on Hermanstrasse in Neukölln. Opened in 1884, this magic shop has been in business for over 130 years. If you’re looking for unusual things to do in Berlin, prepare to spend some time here perusing their trinkets, tricks and costumes to rent. This shop belongs on Diagon Alley as much as it does in Neukölln! Entry submitted by Stephanie from History Fangirl.

Berlin hidden gems – nightlife

Discos inside phone booths.

Berlin is famous for its glitzy mega clubs but did you know there are some tiny discos hidden away in converted phone booths? They’re decked out with strobe lights, fog machines, disco mirror balls and your choice of music. They also have cameras in case you want to record your three-minute dance party. Visit Club Katerblau (open at night) and Raw Gelande (open day and night). These hidden gems in Berlin are easy to operate: insert €2 and pick a song. The doors will open and the party starts. You can pay an extra €2 for a photo strip or a video recording of the whole thing. Entry submitted by Henry from This Life of Travel .

Golden Gate nightclub

If you get rejected from Berlin’s most famous club, the Berghain, take a trip to this nightclub tucked away under Jannowitzbrücke station bridge. Follow Google Maps to find the entrance. Be prepared for a true underground Berlin experience in this tiny, dark club. The lineup changes every night with up-and-coming Berlin artists playing from Friday night to Monday morning. Don’t come overdressed or arrive before 3am! The club is separated into a dancing and chill area. You’re guaranteed to strike a conversation which makes this club a good place if  you are travelling solo and to get out of your comfort zone . Entry submitted by Lucile HR.

Quirky museums in Berlin

The david hasselhoff museum.

Perhaps the most unusual Berlin hidden gem is the David Hasselhoff Museum in a tiny 2×1 metre corner of The Circus Hostel. It’s jam-packed with memorabilia about this actor/singer popular in Berlin.  On 31 December 1989, Hasselhoff performed a concert at the site of the Berlin wall, singing his iconic Looking For Freedom to Berliners celebrating German reunification. You can learn more about this story through the memorabilia at the museum and read about the movement to create a David Hasselhoff Straße (Street). David Hasselhoff often returns to Berlin; sometimes he visits the museum. He also performs a few concerts in the city. In 2019, he held a ‘30 years of freedom’ concert to mark the anniversary of the fall of the Berlin Wall. When you’ve finished at the museum, the bar upstairs serves steins and pretzels! Entry submitted by Claire from Claire’s Footsteps .

Ramones Museum

Fans of the American punk rock band, The Ramones, will be thrilled to know that the first and only museum dedicated entirely to the band is located in Berlin. The bassist, Dee Dee Ramone, grew up in Berlin and, if you listen closely, you’ll hear references to Berlin in a number of their songs. Inside the museum, you’ll find more than 1,000 examples of Ramones memorabilia. Concerts are occasionally held here, and C.J. Ramone even performed once. The museum’s plant-based cafe will please vegan travellers visiting Berlin. Come for breakfast and choose from dishes named after Ramones songs. The ‘I Wanna Live’ includes vegan cheese, bacon, marmalade, fruits and hand-baked bread from Kreuzberg. Yum! Entry submitted by Wendy from The Nomadic Vegan.

Urban Nation – quirky Berlin street art museum

If you want to see some of the best street art in the world, make sure you check out Urban Nation . This street art and graffiti museum in the most bombed city in Europe is free to visit. Browse impressive installations from renowned artists like Banksy and Shepard Fairy. It’s no surprise to find such a quirky museum in Berlin. Graffiti and street art played an important role in shaping the identity of the city, which was named a UNESCO City of Design in 2006. The facade often changes at Urban Nation and the pieces are updated regularly. The street art museum is open from Tuesday to Sunday, 10am to 6pm. The easiest way to get there is by taking the subway to the station Nollendorfplatz. Entry submitted by Carine and Derek from We Did It Our Way.

Visit LGBT+ Schwules Museum

Another unusual thing to do in Berlin is explore the chronicles of LGBT+ history, culture, oppression and rights, both in Germany and internationally. Since the mid-60s, the LGBT+ rights movement has gained traction thanks to large efforts originating in major cities throughout Europe and North America. Germany has made many contributions to the effort and it is known for being a tolerant country offering LGBT+ people many rights and protections.  However, this hasn’t always been the case. The Holocaust carries a variety of horror stories specific to the treatment of LGBT+ people. These stories are told in the various displays at The Schwules Museum , open in the afternoons (closed Tuesdays). Admission costs €9. Entry submitted by Austin from Two Bad Tourists.

Take a LGBT+ tour in Berlin .

Stay in a quirky Berlin hotel

For such a quirky city, there are of course plenty of unique and unusual places to stay in Berlin. These include: Huttenpalast: This caravan hotel in Kreuzberg is a berlin hidden gem in its own right. The double bed in the caravan was super comfortable, plus I had an ‘outside’ seating area to relax in. Since there are only a handful of caravans in the large complex, each seating area is tucked away for privacy. Check availability for €77pn .

Michelberger: This hip hotel inside a refurbished warehouse is totally ‘Berlin’. With high ceilings, flea market-style decor and stacks of books as high as the ceiling, it’s the perfect mix of quirky and light & bright. There’s also a vegan cafe onsite and its perfectly located in busy Friedrichshain. Check availability for €107pn . Boat hotels in Berlin: Bored of staying on land? Opt for a quirky houseboat located inside a refurbished cabin floating on the Spree. Many have double rooms, living rooms, kitchens and bathrooms. Book Eastern & Western Comfort Boathotel or Spreeapartment MARA .

I hope you enjoyed these alternative things to do in Berlin

Check out my other Europe posts:

• The 30 best German dishes to try
• A complete guide to Munich
• Nuremberg travel guide
• Guide to visiting Nuremberg Castle
• 3 day Vienna itinerary
• 3 day Copenhagen itinerary
• How to spend 3 days in Budapest
• What to eat & drink in Prague

See you next time for more adventures,

Ps. Liked these hidden gems in Berlin? Pin it for later!

TRUSTED RESOURCES FOR VISITING GERMANY Getting around by air – I use Skyscanner to find the best-value flights, using the ‘search by month’ tool to find the cheapest dates. You can also use the ‘to anywhere’ feature if you’re flexible on where you’re going. Driving in Europe – use Rentalcars.com to compare car rentals in European countries (and all around the world). For trains , I use RailEurope . The search feature allows you to compare prices, and they show live departure times on the website. For buses , I use FlixBus . Find journeys between European countries from €1. Use Omio to compare trains and buses in one search. It’s so handy! For hotels and self-catering apartments, I use Booking.com . You can filter by review score and price to find the best-rated budget places. For hostels, I use Hostelworld.com . To save money on accommodation, I use Trusted Housesitters , a website that connects homeowners going away and travellers who can sit their homes & pets. Browse tours and activities on GetYourGuide . Need travel insurance ? I use True Traveller (for UK & Europe residents) since it’s some of the most affordable insurance out there but still covers everything you’d need including various activities, valuables and pre-existing conditions. Unlike some companies, they insure you if you’re already travelling / don’t yet have your flight home booked. Get a quote . For travel insurance for other nationalities, I recommend Hey Mundo and for long-term digital nomad travellers, I suggest Safety Wing . Check out my resources page for more travel discounts and budget tips from my 10+ years on the road!

Rose is a solo traveller from the UK who has been on the road since 2015. She wants to show other women that solo travel isn't scary and doesn't have to be expensive! Rose has lived in Mexico, Canada and all over Asia, seeking out food, bubble tea and street art wherever she goes!

4 thoughts on “ Berlin Hidden Gems: 25 Unusual Things To Do In Berlin ”

Great post and collection of quirky places to see in Berlin! Thanks Rose! Even for me as a German who have visited Berlin more than a dozen times there a some new things. I’ll definitely check out the Stand by me tree, the Badeschiff and the Teufelsberg next time – I haven’t heard of them before!

Thanks for reading, Chris. Yes, let me know how you get on! I’m craving another trip too now 🙂

I like summer better but all your pictures and the descriptions you wrote made me want to go for a winter vacation.

I liked summer best too!

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27 Hidden Gems in Berlin: Off the Beaten Path and Unusual Things to Do

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Ali Garland, Berlin expert & long term resident What to Do

It’s easy to find information about the major attractions in Berlin – places like Brandenburg Gate, Checkpoint Charlie, Museum Island, to name a few. But what about the hidden gems in Berlin ? Places that are really interesting but aren’t as widely known by visitors can make for an enjoyable experience. I’ve been living in Berlin since 2015, so to help you out, I’ve put together this list of Berlin off the beaten path sights and even some unusual things to do in Berlin .

My Berlin local tips includes some quirky Berlin attractions that are simply fun to see or do. It also includes some places that aren’t as popular or visited as much as the big sights in Berlin , but they’re ones that I think are really worth seeing anyway. And then I’ve also listed some sights and experiences that aren’t normally on Berlin top 10 lists.

What you'll find here

Unusual places to stay in Berlin

If you’re looking for hotels that are less than ordinary, you definitely have some choices in Berlin. Here are some hotel recommendations for unique places to stay in Berlin.

25Hours Hotel Bikini Berlin

Upscale hotel with “jungle” rooms that overlook the Berlin Zoo and TIergarten Park

Hüttenpalast

Quirky hotel where you can sleep in retro-style caravans and cabins located within an indoor camping site

nHow Berlin Friedrichshain

Midrange hotel along the Spree River where you can rent a guitar for free

Eastern & Western Berlin Boat

Unique budget hotel & hostel in a moored boat in the Spree River near the East Side Gallery

For a more detailed look at the different neighborhoods and our hotel recommendations, check out our guide to where to stay in Berlin .

Unique Berlin Tours

Berlin has lots of great tours to help you see more of the city. But if you’re looking for a Berlin off the beaten path walking tour instead of the standard options, these are a few we recommend.

• Berlin Street Art Tour : Learn about Berlin’s street art scene, legal and illegal street art, and see some off the beaten path art as well as a few famous ones.
• Berlin Neighborhoods Off the Beaten Path Walking Tour : Explore different areas of Kreuzberg, Mitte and Friedrichshain that most tourists don’t get to see.
• 3-Hour Alternative Berlin Bike Tour Vibes of Berlin : See Berlin on a 3 hour bike tour through alternative areas of Kreuzberg, Friedrichshain, Neukölln, and Treptow neighborhoods.
• Berliner Unterwelten Tours : The Berlin Underground tours are tours of an alternative side of Berlin, including old bunkers, subways, escape tunnels under the Berlin Wall, and more.

Berlin hidden gems

Berlin off the beaten path map.

I’ve created this map of the places mentioned in this post to help you see where they all are. Towards the end of the post, I have some quirky and off the beaten path day trips, and they are not on the map. Check out the map, and keep reading to learn more about these quirky sights and hidden gems.

9th of November 1989 Platz

The Berlin Wall is a big part of the city’s history, but there are so many different sights around Berlin that have to do with the Cold War , the Wall, and the division of Berlin. One of my favorites that often gets overlooked is the 9th of November 1989 Platz (Platz des 9th November 1989 in German) near the Bornholmer Strasse Sbahn station.

Here you’ll see a remaining piece of the Berlin Wall , plus an interesting display about the fall of the Wall. The former border crossing here was the first place the border opened up on November 9, 1989, so it holds a lot of history.

November 9th was an infamous date in German history before the fall of the Wall, and you can also learn about other dark events that took place on that day in history. This is also an especially nice place to visit in spring to see cherry blossoms .

Location: Bornholmer Str. 61, 10439 Berlin Opening Hours: 24/7 Entrance: free

Gedenkstätte Berlin-Hohenschönhausen

The Gedenkstätte Berlin-Hohenschönhausen , or the Berlin Hohenschönhausen Memorial, is a museum in a former Stasi prison. It was the main prison of the East German secret police. At this memorial, you can learn the history of the Stasi and the communist dictatorship, and stories of the many people who ended up here as prisoners. Some, but not all, guides were former prisoners themselves.

Location: Genslerstraße 66, 13055 Berlin Opening Hours: daily 9am – 6pm Entrance: The permanent exhibition is free; tours are 8 euros

Parliament of Trees

The Parliament of Trees a unique Berlin sight and a creative memorial honoring people who were victims of the Berlin Wall. It uses 58 authentic parts of the Berlin Wall, and for each year the Wall stood, there is a number indicating how many people died. It’s only open on Sundays in Berlin and not in the winter, so plan ahead.

This memorial includes 16 trees, one planted in 1990 by the state president from each of the 16 German federal states. Photos, flowers, memorial stones, and more round out this interesting Cold War site in Berlin .

Location: Schiffbauerdamm, 10117 Berlin, east bank of the Spree River, opposite the Reichstag Building Opening Hours: April to October, Sundays only, 12 noon – 5pm Entrance: free

Medieval city wall remains

While the Berlin Wall is the wall Berlin is most known for, you can still see a remaining section of the old medieval walls that once protected the city.

It might not be the most exciting thing to see in Berlin, but it’s certainly interesting that, despite everything, even this little bit of the old city walls still exists. And not far from here, check out the Franziskaner-Klosterkirche church ruins.

Location: Waisenstraße 2, 10179 Berlin Opening Hours: 24/7 Entrance: Free

Urban Nation

Urban Nation, the museum for urban contemporary art, is a free museum dedicated to street art, graffiti, and urban art. It’s the world’s first urban art museum, which is fitting since street art is such a huge part of Berlin’s landscape.

The exhibits change, as does the art covering the outside of the building. You can see fun, quirky art here, but also more serious pieces that have a message to send about current events. Check out my full guide to visiting the Urban Nation Museum and more free Berlin museums .

Location: Bülowstraße 7, 10783 Berlin Opening Hours: Tuesday & Wednesday 10am – 6pm, Thursday – Sunday 12 noon – 8pm, closed Monday Entrance: Free

>>Finding lots of things closed on Mondays? Check out my ideas for what to do on Mondays in Berlin .

North Side Gallery

You’ve heard of the East Side Gallery, the most famous remaining section of the Berlin Wall . But what if you could see street art on another section of the Wall, but one that is very much under the radar?

Just a few steps away from the Bernauer Strasse Wall Memorial is the Park am Nordbahnhof where you can see a few sections of the Berlin Wall that are still standing. And they have been turned into another legal place for street art. It’s privately run, so you have to get permission to paint on these walls.

For an alternative Berlin outdoor art display, I highly recommend taking a stroll through this park and enjoying the different sections of the North Side Gallery.

Location: Doesn’t really have an address, but look here and here Opening Hours: The park is open daily 6am – 10pm Entrance: Free

Teufelsberg

Tucked into the Grunewald, Teufelsberg is a former Cold War NSA spy station that’s been turned into one of the largest street art galleries in the world.

You can take a tour to learn about the site’s Cold War history as well as see what it’s been transformed into today. Keep in mind that you have to hike there, and they don’t have running water, so the only toilets are port-a-potties.

Location: Teufelsseechaussee 10, 14193 Berlin, 30 minute walk from the Heerstr or Grunewald Sbahn stations Opening hours: Monday – Friday 12:00 pm to sunset; Saturday, Sunday, public holidays: 11:00 am to sunset Entrance: 8 euros online, 10 euros at the door (cash only)

Bierpinsel translates to “beer brush”, which is sort of what this quirky 47 meter building looks like. It’s located right next to the Schloßstrasse U-Bahn in the Steglitz district, and it’s definitely a unique Berlin attraction.

Opened in 1976, this building used to be a restaurant. Unfortunately after the last tenant moved out of the building in 2010, it has remained empty for quite some time. A new owner is supposedly doing repairs and renovations with the hope of reopening it in a few years.

Location: Schloßstraße 17, 12163 Berlin Opening Hours: n/a Entrance: n/a

Computerspielemuseum

Do you love video games? Then the Computerspielemuseum is for you. This museum is dedicated to video games, and you’ll find games from decades ago all the way up to modern day games. And the best part is you can play some of them.

This is a particularly kid friendly place in Berlin , so if you’re not traveling with kids, you might want to avoid weekends and school holidays. That way you can experience the museum with smaller crowds.

Location: Karl-Marx-Allee 93A, 10243 Berlin Opening Hours: Daily 10am – 8pm Entrance: 11 euros

David Hasselhof Museum

I feel like “museum” is a bit of a stretch, but inside the Circus Hostel in their bar area, there’s a tiny, and a bit cheesy, David Hasselhof Museum. You’ll find photos and memorabilia honoring the singer/actor. Who is American, not German, in case you didn’t know.

Location: Weinbergsweg 1A, 10119 Berlin Opening Hours: Open when the bar/microbrewery is open, daily starting at 7pm Entrance: Free, but I recommend staying to buy a tasty beer

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More unusual museums in Berlin

Looking for more quirky museums? Berlin has plenty. Here are a few others to check out if you’re looking for something out of the ordinary.

Disgusting Food Museum : Learn about weird foods that people eat in other parts of the world, and at the end you can even try a few, like insects. Located at Schützenstraße 70, entry 16 euros. Closed Wednesdays and Thursdays.

Hemp Museum : The Hemp Museum (Hanf in German) is located at Mühlendamm 5 in Nikolaiviertel and covers everything hemp related, from history to its different uses. Closed on Mondays, entry 6 euros.

Buchstabenmuseum : For something a little off the beaten path in Berlin, check out the Buchstabenmuseum, or Letter Museum. This privately run museum is dedicated to old neon signs and other types of interesting letters and signs. If you’re a fan of design, typography, and signage, this one is for you. Located at Stadtbahnbogen 424, entry 12 euros. Closed Monday to Wednesday.

I think a lot of tourists don’t know about Tempelhof, a huge park that was once an airport. It’s definitely a unique Berlin attraction where you can walk on the runway (or run or ride a bike or many other things) and the airport building is still there. This airport also holds a lot of history as the base of the Berlin Airlift during the Cold War.

Even for those who do know about Tempelhof, did you know you can take a tour ? The tour shows you around the airport building, tells you about the history, and takes you to places not open to the general public.

And just recently they opened a viewing platform at Tempelhof. Both the Tempelhof Airport tour and the viewing platform are paid attractions, but they’re great ways to enjoy this hidden gem in Berlin.

Location: Tempelhofer Damm, 12101 Berlin; Airport building: Platz d. Luftbrücke 5, 12101 Berlin Opening Hours: Daily dawn to dusk (changes with the seasons) Entrance: Park entrance is free, tour is 17.50 euros, viewing platform is 6 euros

Markthalle Neun for Street Food Thursday

Well known by locals, this is one tourists might not be aware of. Markthalle Neun is an indoor market in Kreuzberg that focuses on local and organic (Bio in German) produce, meats, cheeses, and other products.

The main market runs on Saturdays and there are some stalls open every day except Sunday. But come by on Thursday night for Street Food Thursday. This is a popular event with locals where you can try lots of different and interesting food. It gets crowded though, so bring some patience.

Location: Eisenbahnstraße 42/43, 10997 Berlin Opening Hours: Thursdays 5pm – 10pm (hours are only for Street Food Thursday) Entrance: Free

Do you enjoy indoor markets? Also consider checking out Arminiusmarkthalle in Moabit and Marheineke Markthalle in Kreuzberg.

Kulturbrauerei for Street Food Sunday

Another street food event I quite like is in the courtyard of Kulturbrauerei in Prenzlauer Berg on Sunday afternoons.

On Street Food Sunday, you can find a bunch of food trucks set up selling everything from Korean fried chicken and Thai food to Uzbeki cuisine. Anything goes, and it’s a great atmosphere.

Location: Schönhauser Allee 36, 10435 Berlin Opening Hours: Sundays 12 noon – 6pm Entrance: Free

Klunkerkranich

Berlin has many rooftop bars , but one of the most hidden ones is Klunkerkranich. Yes, it’s well known, but the challenge is finding it once you arrive.

You have to work your way through a parking garage to find the entrance, and it can feel like you must be in the wrong place. Come for the view and enjoy some drinks and a little food.

Location: Karl-Marx-Straße 66, 12043 Berlin Opening Hours: Monday – Wednesday 5pm – midnight; Thursday – Sunday from 4pm Entrance: 2 to 8 euros depending on what’s going on that night

This eclectic market along the Spree River is a collection of bars and food stalls in a creative space. It’s pretty well known by locals but off the beaten path for Berlin visitors.

They also hold one of the less touristy Christmas markets in Berlin , so check it out if you’re in Berlin in December .

Location: Holzmarktstraße 25, 10243 Berlin Opening Hours: evenings on weekdays, afternoons and evenings on weekends Entrance: Free

Free lunchtime concert at the Philharmonie

Every Wednesday between September and June, the Philharmonie puts on a free show at lunchtime. The music is wide ranging but always sure to entertain.

The show lasts about 40-50 minutes. The number of guests is limited, so you may want to arrive early. Not only is this a fun free thing to do , but it’s a Berlin hidden gem not many people know about.

Grab a beer at a Späti

Spätis are unique Berlin convenience stores that are usually open 24 hours a day, though sometimes a few hours less. They mostly sell beer, but you can find other alcoholic beverages, potato chips, chocolate bars, sodas, and other snacks. Some will also sell bakery items or quick sandwiches or even items approaching groceries.

Certain Spätis have picnic tables outside where you can sit with your newly purchased beer, making it almost, but not quite, like a bar. Give it a try, it’s definitely one of the non touristy things to do in Berlin.

Location: Within a few blocks from wherever you are

Spandau Citadel

Charlottenburg Palace is the most well known castle in Berlin for good reasons. But if you’re looking for a castle that’s a little off the beaten path in Berlin, I highly recommend Spandau Citadel. It’s a fortress, so it’s more defensive than Schloss Charlottenburg, so you’ll also get to see a different kind of castle here.

The Citadel dates back to the 12th century, and it was strategically built where the Havel and Spree Rivers meet. Spandau is a district in the far northwest corner of Berlin, so it’s outside the center, but it’s still easy to reach by Ubahn or Sbahn.

Location: Am Juliusturm 64, 13599 Berlin Opening Hours: Thursday 1pm – 8pm, all other days 10am – 5pm Entrance: Adult 4.50 euro, Child 2.50 euro

If you’re visiting Berlin in summer and you want to cool off, go for a swim at the Badeschiff. This is a barge that’s been converted into a pool, and it’s located in the Spree River.

Not only is it a unique thing to do in Berlin, but you’ll have some great views of the Oberbaum Bridge and nearby areas from the pool.

Location: Eichenstraße 4, 12435 Berlin Opening Hours: Varies and can change, check website Entrance: 8 euros, book online only, max 4 days ahead

David Bowie’s apartment

From 1976 to 1978, David Bowie lived in Berlin, and during that time, he created three albums: Low, Heroes, and Lodger. Today his former apartment building is marked with a plaque, and often people leave flowers or other mementos.

Location: Hauptstraße 155, 10827 Berlin Opening Hours: n/a Entrance: n/a

Spas are very popular in Germany, and Berlin has quite a few good ones. But the Liquidrom is a unique Berlin place to go because it’s not your typical spa. Here you can listen to techno music underwater, because Berlin loves its techno, and a few nights a week there’s even a DJ. Definitely a interesting thing to do at night in Berlin .

Location: Möckernstrasse 10, 10963 Berlin Opening Hours: Sunday – Thursday 9am – midnight; Friday and Saturday 9am – 1am Entrance: starts at 22.50 euros, depends on services

Mauerpark karaoke

Sunday flea markets are a big thing in Berlin, and the one at Mauerpark is one of the most popular. But the most alternative things to do in Berlin also takes place here, and it’s karaoke.

It’s free, anyone can perform, and there’s a fun, relaxed vibe. If you want Berlin local tips, this is definitely one of them.

Location: Mauerpark, right about here Opening hours: Sunday afternoons Entrance: free

Looking for other flea markets? I recommend the RAW flea market and the Boxhagener Platz flea market, both in Friedrichshain.

Park Inn viewing platform

I love views of places from high vantage points. It’s one of my favorite things to do when I travel, so I have tons of favorite places for views of Berlin from above .

While I certainly think the views FROM the TV Tower are amazing, there’s one place that has the best view OF the TV Tower. And somehow it remains one of the Berlin secret places that’s hidden in plain sight.

This viewing platform is in the Park Inn hotel at Alexanderplatz. Because it’s so close to the TV Tower, it is THE place to go if you want fantastic photos of the tower.

It’s on the 39th floor of the hotel, where you’ll be 153 meters (about 502 feet) high. Unfortunately it’s not wheelchair friendly though, because even though you take the elevator most of the way, you have to climb 80 stairs from the 35th floor up to the 39th floor.

Location: Alexanderpl. 7, 10178 Berlin Opening Hours: April to September 12 noon to 10pm, October to March 12 noon to 6pm; can close in bad weather Entrance: 6 euros, cash only

Looking for other viewpoints that aren’t the TV Tower? Try Victory Column , the French Cathedral at Gendarmenmarkt , or Panoramapunkt .

Berlin is known all over the world for being a party city, and for some people, clubbing is the main reason to come here. But one of the more unusual things to do in Berlin is to go to what is probably the smallest dance club in the world.

It’s called Teledisko, and it’s basically a cross between a phone booth and a photo booth that plays music. You pay a few euros, pick a song, and dance your heart out. You can even pay a little extra for pictures or videos. It’s super cheesy, but definitely a quirky Berlin activity.

There are three that I know of, although Google Maps only seems to know of two. I’ll link to all three locations.

Location: RAW , Holzmarkt , Mercedes Platz Opening Hours: 24/7 Entrance: 2 to 6 euros, cash only

Quirky bars in Berlin

Berlin has plenty of bars, but for something truly weird, here are a few suggestions.

Train Cocktail Bar : For cool places to go in Berlin for a drink, why not try the Train Cocktail Bar? This bar is in an original Berlin Sbahn train car from the 1920s, so it’s a pretty cool setting. Located at Hauptstraße 162.

Berlin Ice Bar : This bar is very close to several tourist attractions, but I still think it’s quite an unusual thing to do in Berlin. The Berlin Ice Bar is a place where everything is made of ice and the temperature is 14F (-10C). But don’t worry, coats and gloves are provided. Located at Spandauer Str. 2.

Klo : Klo means toilet in German, and this is a toilet themed bar. The bar is decorated with toilet brushes, bedpans, actual toilets, and just about anything else related. Berlin quirky things to do? Yes, definitely. Located at Leibnizstraße 57.

MacLaren’s Pub : This is a How I Met Your Mother themed bar, completely decked out in just about every detail you could imagine from the show. Lily’s nude paintings of Marshall and Barney. Barney’s motivational posters from his office. The blue French horn. Just to name a few. Even better, this bar was started by two Berliners, one who was studying architecture, and one was studying law. Located at Boxhagener Str. 16.

Off the beaten path day trips from Berlin

The most popular day trips from Berlin are Potsdam and Sachsenhausen Concentration Camp , and for good reasons. But if you’re looking for something a little different, here are a few suggestions.

Cottbus : For a charming small city near Berlin, consider a day trip to Cottbus . It has the look and feel of a typical German old town but it’s a bit under the radar, so it’s not too crowded. Plus there’s a palace with a park that has two odd grass pyramids.

Peacock Island : Just on the edge of Berlin there’s an island with a fairy tale castle and peacocks that roam freely. It’s called Pfaueninsel in German. This is a good choice for a little nature that’s still within the city but feels like a world away. Note: The castle is under construction, so if this is your main reason for visiting, you should wait until it’s no longer covered up.

Tropical Islands : Maybe not so off the beaten path since it is definitely well known, but this is a bit quirky. Great if you’re traveling with kids, Tropical Islands is a water park in an old zeppelin hangar. The temperature is kept warm all year round, so it’s actually a great place to go in the winter if you want to pretend you’re in the south Pacific.

Berlin Travel Resources

I want you to have the best trip to Berlin, and hopefully this guide to hidden gems in Berlin and Berlin off the beaten path is helpful. But there are lots more tips on the site!

• 101 Best Things to do in Berlin
• 23 Impressive Castles in Berlin (And Nearby)
• 27 Best World War II & Cold War Sights in Berlin
• 29 Fun Day Trips From Berlin
• 75 Things to Know Before Visiting Berlin: Essential Berlin Travel Tips
• What to Wear & What to Pack for Berlin, Germany: Your Ultimate Berlin Packing List
• How to Get Around in Berlin: An Easy Guide to Berlin Public Transportation

Check out my favorite travel planning sites and resources

These are the sites I like for travel planning, plus items I like to travel with.

Planning Booking.com : Find a Berlin hotel here.

Rick Steves and Lonely Planet : My favorite guidebook resources.

Tours, Activities, Tickets Viator : Great site for finding tours and other activities.

GetYourGuide : Another good option for tours and activities.

Transport Welcome Pickups : No stress option for airport pickups.

Discover Cars : Find a rental car for Germany road trips.

Deutsche Bahn and FlixBus : Best options for getting around Germany.

Packing Orange SIM & eSIM : Great option for SIM & eSIM cards for German & EU.

Collapsible water bottle , plug adapter , and stuff bag : Small things that will make your trip a little easier.

Packing Orange SIM & eSIM : Great option for SIM & eSIM cards for Germany & EU.

Book a local photographer Flytographer : Hire an amazing local photographer anywhere in the world. Use code BERLINTRAVEL to get $25 off your first photo shoot.

Related Posts

What to do in Berlin on Monday: 25+ Museums & More

What to do in Berlin on Sunday: 15+ Ideas

Best Berlin Hop On Hop Off Bus Tours

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The 23 best things to do in Berlin right now

Not sure where to start in the German capital? We've got you covered with the absolute best things to eat, see and do in Berlin

Is there anything Berlin can’t do? The German capital was the city of the twentieth century and has carried that momentum into the twenty-first. What are the best things to do in Berlin? The diversity at the heart of the city makes it a ‘something for everyone’ sort of place, with museums and galleries for the culture vultures next to 72-hour parties for the buzz-chasing, erm, buzzards. Not the best analogy, clearly, but you see the point. If you want it, you’ll find it in Berlin. And that’s how we’ve curated our list the way we have: to show off each element of this fabulous city. In any case, a plan is a must, as this modern metropolis fills every inch of its territory with interest, so follow our guide to the best things to do in Berlin and get planning. You are in for one incredible trip.

RECOMMENDED: 🪩 The best clubs in Berlin 🍴 The best restaurants in Berlin 🏡 The best  Airbnbs in Berlin 🛏 The best hotels in Berlin 📍 How to spend  a weekend in Berlin .

This guide was recently updated by Berlin-based writer  Kate Bettes . Original photos by Berlin-based photographer Astra Pentaxia .  At Time Out, all of our  travel guides  are written by local writers who know their cities inside out. For more about how we curate, see our  editorial guidelines . 

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Best things to do in Berlin

1.  Spend a day at Mauerpark

• Parks and gardens

Berlin’s most famous, biggest and busiest vintage scene is at Mauerpark .  This Sunday flea market sees storeholders selling everything from clothes by local designers to eclectic collections of vintage items. It also hosts the immensely popular weekly outdoor singing session, Bearpit Karaoke . You can also try out the the flea markets on the RAW cultural site in Berlin-Friedrichshain, and for fresh fruit and vegetables or baked goods, head to  Neuköllner Wochenmärkte  on Tuesdays and Fridays.

🥙 Discover more of the best markets in Berlin

2.  Go clubbing at Berghain

• Friedrichshain

The Berlin clubbing scene is world famous, and rightly so. The most famous is Berghain , a techno temple whose fame as an 'out-there' venue sees queues as long as six hours, with possible rejection when you reach the front. If that happens, check out  Sisyphos  (famous for its 10 pm Friday to 10 am Monday hours),  Renate ,  KitKatClub  and rooftop  Klunkerkranich . 

The best way of getting in? 1) If you don’t like techno, learn to love it. 2) If you go to a club 'just to see it' instead of genuinely liking the vibe, you probably won’t get in. 3) Learn the DJs' names in case you’re asked. 4) Obviously, don’t turn up drunk.

3.  Get active at Tempelhofer Feld

After Tempelhof Airport ceased operation in 2008, the city opened the runways to the public. Now you can stroll down the runways where Second World War Stuka dive-bombers took off and where, during the Berlin Airlift of 1948 after the Soviets blockaded West Berlin, the Western Powers dropped supplies for the city’s 2.5 million residents.

Today, the 368-hectare open space of runways and grasslands is much enjoyed by walkers, kite surfers, cyclists, runners, skaters, and goshawks. There are designated sections for dogs to run free, basketball courts, a baseball field, beer gardens, and even small allotments where Berliners can grow their own veg.

4.  Take a day trip to Potsdam

Frederick the Great’s summer grounds make for an unforgettable day out in Potsdam, the state capital of Brandenburg, just an S-Bahn ride southwest from central Berlin. As well as touring the Sansouci palace itself, guests can spend hours getting lost in its gardens and the ornate Bildergalerie and Neue Kammern (‘new chambers’). A trip to the lush grounds is welcome after a few days of pavement-pounding in urban Berlin. Not a fan of royalty? Discover the Golden Age of Berlin film at Filmpark Babelsberg , visit the Dutch and Russian quarters, and cross the Glienicke Bridge AKA the Cold War ‘Bridge of Spies.

5.  Grab a beer with a view in Tiergarten

Ask any local Berliner what their favourite thing to do in the city is, and you can bet your bottom euro that many of them will say that it's plentiful green spaces. Tiergarten by the Brandenburg Gate is the most famous and makes a refreshing break from your sightseeing. In its lifetime, it has been a hunting area for wild animals, a public park as created by Frederick the Great, and a site of destruction during and post-WW2, where much of the greenery was destroyed. Today, newer trees have been grown, and it is once again a relaxing park in which you can while away your summer days.

Time Out Tip:  Check out  Volkspark Friedrichshain to sunbathe with a pretzel and  Treptower Park  for one of the city’s prettiest outdoor beer gardens by the river. 

6.  Paddle on a floating barge at Badeschiff

The  Badeschiff pool in Treptow  is a famous floating barge pool, right next to the River Spree. You can sip Aperol spritzes from its bar and lean back in the various deckchairs overlooking the Instagram-worthy pool in front of you. But don’t be tempted to take a quick snap. Badeschiff is one of the many venues where you are not allowed to take photos. Note, that booking is essential, particularly on those long, hot, and humid summer days. Just note it’s not open all year round, so check its website for opening times. 

7.  Go for a dip in a Berlin lake

The wider Brandenburg region has around 3,000 lakes. Many are accessible by public transport and are a gorgeous way to cool off in summer or exhilarating spots to ‘ice dip’ in winter. Overwhelmed? Wannsee to the city’s west and Müggelsee to the east are the classic destinations, but there are plenty of others to discover.

You can grab some cold radlers and take the S-Bahn to the Schlachtensee Lake in southwestern Berlin for forest vibes. Alternatively, Plotzensee in north-western Berlin charges you €8 for entry … but it’s worth it. From play equipment for children on the right, currywurst and pizza stores in the middle, and a dance floor, sofas, a bar, and a naked sauna on the left, it’s nothing if not left of field. Not your jam? There are more to choose from than you could swim in in your lifetime.

🛶 Discover more of the best lakes in Berlin

8.  Confront a dark past at the Jewish Museum

Going to the Jewish Museum can make for a challenging, and full-on experience, but a visit here should certainly be high on your things to visit in Berlin. Since 2001, the museum has showcased the vast experiences of the Jewish people, both their past and present, covering everything from the documentation of Jewish German families to Jewish history from the Middle Ages to today. Admission to the core exhibition is free. 

🏛️ Discover more of the best museums in Berlin

9.  Get naked at Vabali

• Health and beauty

In pretty much every spa in Berlin, clothes are forbidden and are mixed-gender. While this might sound intimidating, it is perfectly normal in Germany, meaning almost all the time, people aren’t creepy. The exquisite and mind-blowing  Vabali   is a good place to start. For anything from two hours (from €23.50) to a full day (from €41.50), you can visit its sweat lodges, panoramic laconium saunas, infusion and herbal and birch saunas, as well as outdoor and indoor pools, an outdoor restaurant and a bar. Whether you’re simply wanting to lounge around or want to book a massage, you’re bound to see people from all over Berlin, in every shape and size, doing the same.

📍 Discover more of the best spas in Berlin

10.  Grab brunch at Kanaan

When it comes to breakfast places, it’s easy to break out of the ‘avo on toast’ expat scene. Take Kanaan in Prenzlauer Berg , a delicious and worthy collaboration for peace between Palestinian and Israeli chefs, with plenty of vegan and vegetarian options. Opt for the multi-course brunch, with pomegranate salads, vine leaves, labneh, hummus, and Baba Ganoush , delectably salty roast potatoes, and more. 

🥞 Discover more of the  best brunch in Berlin  

We visited Berlin's Fotografiska

@timeouttravel the coolest new museum in Berlin 🎞️🪩 #fotografiska #fotografiskamuseum #berlin #berlinexhibition #berlinart #thingstodoinberlin ♬ ten_the firrrrrsttt day back - Fredagainagain

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18 Best Things to Do in Berlin

By Liz Humphreys and Krystin Arneson

Thirty-five years after the fall of the Berlin Wall, in 1989, the German capital's intoxicating mix of grit, glamour, and anything-goes expression born from historical repression has made it one of the most dynamic cities on earth. Where else can you saunter through Prussian palaces, venture into Nazi-era bunkers, tour the world's longest outdoor art gallery, and lose yourself in Europe's most famous techno temple? (And that's just day one.) So bring an open mind, pack your stamina, and get ready to dive into all the city has to offer. Read on for the very best things to do in Berlin.

Read our complete Berlin travel guide here .

Every review on this list has been written by a Condé Nast Traveler journalist who knows the destination. When choosing things to do, our editors consider landmarks and experiences that offer an insider's experience of a destination, keeping authenticity, location, service, and sustainability credentials top of mind.

Hackesche Höfe and Haus Schwarzenberg Arrow

Beneath its rough exterior, Berlin hides elegant urban courtyards behind the Altbau buildings that survived World War II. In the heart of Berlin’s central Mitte neighborhood, Hackesche Höfe is a cluster of eight café- and boutique-filled public courtyards dating from 1907. Following a complete renovation to restore the interconnected höfs (courtyards) to their former glory, the labyrinth reopened in 1996. Several doors down on Rosenthaler Straße, Haus Schwarzenberg is Hackesche Höfe’s gritty, graffiti-covered brother, and it offers a fascinating glimpse of what much of Berlin looked like before gentrification swept in.

Charlottenburg Palace Arrow

Built in 1699 as a summer residence for Sophie Charlotte, wife of King Friedrich I, this massive, multi-winged baroque structure is Berlin’s largest palace. Heavily damaged in World War II and rebuilt and restored over several decades, the palace is home to a number of priceless collections, including royal porcelain and silver, crown jewels, and important 18th-century French paintings by artists such as Antoine Watteau. The rooms themselves, most of which were entirely reconstructed, feature ornate plasterwork, gilding, and frescoes, all based on original designs. The highlight is the gardens, created in the French and English style, with orderly hedges, fountains, ponds, and tree-lined gravel paths.

Berlin Wall Memorial Arrow

This free indoor/outdoor museum and memorial is the best place to learn how the Berlin Wall sprung up, practically overnight, what life was like in the former East German state, and the heroic (and heartbreaking) attempts people made to reunite with their families. As you walk along this one-mile stretch of Bernauer Strasse, an open-air exhibit features photographs and signs detailing the stories on either side of the barrier. There’s also a preserved piece of the original border wall and a watchtower, as well as an indoor visitor center with exhibits chronicling the political and historical events surrounding the city’s division.

Mauerpark Flea Market Arrow

Located along a former part of the Berlin Wall that was a militarized no-man’s land known as the “Death Strip,” the area that is now Mauerpark (“Wall Park") was where guards stationed in watch towers would shoot would-be escapees trying to flee from East Berlin to West. Today, the attack dogs and soldiers are gone, and in their place, the city’s largest and best outdoor market is held every Sunday. Surrounding the bustling market in the trendy green space is something of an anything-goes circus, filled with jugglers, picnickers and the world's largest karaoke party, known as Bearpit Karaoke.

CNT Editors

Steph Koyfman

Shannon McMahon

Berghain Arrow

Perhaps no club in Berlin (or the world, for that matter) is more hallowed than Berghain. Set in a former East German power station, this cavernous, nondescript warehouse is the Holy Grail for techno fans, hosting three-day-long debauchery-induced raves. Every weekend, the club attracts some of the best DJs from all over the planet to spin and pump beats so intense that they ring in your bones instead of your ears.

Reichstag Building Arrow

Reduced to rubble after one of history's most infamous fires in the 1930s, and then rebuilt decades later, the stately Reichstag is arguably Germany's most iconic landmark . The building has been home of Germany’s parliament (the Bundestag) since 1999 and now serves as a symbol of the country’s reunification. Today, a glistening glass dome designed by starchitect Norman Foster sits atop the grand old structure, and anyone with an advanced booking can ascend its 755-foot-long ramp for sweeping views over the city. The Reichstag dome is one of the most enriching free experiences for first-time visitors to the city, where a troubled past exists side by side with a trendsetting future. Few places employ this juxtaposition quite as well as this monument to freedom and openness, which was literally built atop the site that saw Nazis rise to power.

Humboldt Forum Arrow

The Humboldt Forum’s collection is vast and varied—and honestly more than a little overwhelming. The main exhibit is the Ethnological Collection and Asian Art, which displays about 20,000 objects from Berlin’s former Ethnological Museum and Museum for Asian Art of the State Museums. What’s most interesting here is that many objects are examined in a critical context—for instance, looking at how they were taken from African nations during colonial rule, with descriptions in both German and English. The fascinating, if sprawling, Berlin Global exhibit examines Berlin’s impact on the world in six categories: Boundaries, Entertainment, Fashion, Interconnection, Revolution, Space, and War. The After Nature (Humboldt Lab) exhibition critically examines the interplay between climate change and democracy in countries around the world. Then there are a few exhibitions reminding you of the building’s complex history: a Sculpture Hall displaying fragments of the original palace as well as six large 18th-century sculptures; the Palace Cellar below ground that includes part of the medieval Dominican monastery originally on the site as well as preserved sections of the Berlin Palace’s foundations; and a large-scale video panorama about the history of the site (“800 years of history in just 14 minutes!”) Plus, a panoramic rooftop on the fourth floor (accessible with an extra fee) offers lovely views of the Berlin rooftops. Also of note: As befits a modern museum, a good number of exhibits are interactive, with buttons to push, videos and virtual reality stories to watch, and audio to listen to.

Brandenburg Gate Arrow

This triumphant neoclassical arch is Berlin’s most famous monument and the only remaining gate of the 14 that originally surrounded the city when it was a proud Prussian metropolis. Since then, Napoleon and Hitler have stormed through it and the world watched as thousands of Berliners swarmed the site with sledgehammers to topple the nearby Wall in 1989. Ever since, this Acropolis-inspired 1791 monument has come to symbolize German reunification. Conveniently located within easy walking distance of a trio of boldfaced Berlin sites ( Tiergarten Park , the Reichstag , and The Holocaust Memorial ), the Brandenburg Gate serves as a central meeting place for tourists.

Topography of Terror Arrow

You’re on the site of the headquarters of the Gestapo, Nazi Germany’s secret police force between 1933 and 1945, where many political prisoners were tortured before being sent to concentration camps and prisons. The Reich Security Main Office, created by Nazi paramilitary organization Schutzstaffel (SS) head and chief of the German police Heinrich Himmel—which was responsible for organizing the Holocaust—was also headquarted here starting in 1939. Indoor and outdoor exhibitions walk visitors through the history of these organizations and the crimes that they committed. Especially moving is the outdoor exhibit “Berlin 1933-1945. Between Propaganda and Terror” that looks at how the Nazis came to power in Berlin; it’s displayed amongst excavated sections of the fomer building (visible through glass panels) where the Nazis planned their crimes against humanity. The comprehensive inside exhibit goes into even more depth, using photos and stories to tell the story of when the Nazis came to power and the crimes they committed until World War II ended. Both exhibits, plus regularly rotating temporary ones, are free to visit. For even more history, to the site’s north you’ll find the longest section of the Berlin Wall still remaining in the city center.

Museum Island Arrow

Berlin's Smithsonian on the Spree, Museumsinsel (“Museum Island”) is a UNESCO-inscribed collection of five world-class museums and a must-see for anyone coming to Berlin. Spanning 6,000 years of art and history, the island’s ensemble of museums (The Altes Museum, Neues Museum , Alte Nationalgalerie, Pergamonmuseum , and Bode Museum) represent the pinnacle of Germany’s museum collection. Here, visitors can come face to face with Nefertiti; ascend an ancient altar dedicated to Zeus; and marvel at Monet, Cézanne, and Degas’ landscapes before crossing the bridge back to mainland Berlin.

Neue Nationalgalerie Arrow

All of the Neue Nationalgalerie’s art dates from the 20th century. The museum’s permanent collection is strong on German Expressionism—think Ernst Ludwig Kirchner, Max Beckmann, and Emil Nolde— along with Cubist and Dada works, plus worthy pieces by such 20th-century art world luminaries as Pablo Picasso, Edvard Munch, Piet Mondriaan, Joan Miró, and Wassily Kandinsky. Though the permanent exhibition space on the lower floor is large, it only holds about 250 pieces, so selections from the museum’s collection of about 5,000 artworks rotate throughout the year. (A new, larger “berlin modern” museum is under construction next to the Neue Nationalgalerie to display more of the artworks; however, its planned opening in 2027 is in question, as it’s already behind schedule and millions over budget.) When the Neue Nationalgalerie reopened in 2021, the permanent exhibition space featured art from 1900 to 1945; from late 2023 through October 2025, the museum is displaying works from 1945 to 2000, with such artists as Barnett Newman, Andy Warhol, Francis Bacon, and Louise Nevelson. Visitors also have the chance to catch the Gerhard Richter Art Foundation, which has loaned 100 works from the renowned German artist to the museum until at least 2026. You can hit the highlights in 60 to 90 minutes, but it will be a bit rushed. Two hours will give you a much more relaxed pace to explore the permanent and temporary collections, and to maybe even spend some time enjoying the lovely sculpture garden, if the weather’s nice.

Sammlung Boros Arrow

A renovated Nazi-era bunker in the now-posh Mitte district houses this private collection of contemporary art, owned by Christian and Karen Boros (who actually live in an apartment on the roof). The selection of sculpture, paintings, photographs, and installations by international artists rotate every four years, but have recently featured contemporary artists like Katja Novitskova, Guan Xiao, and Kris Martin. A guided tour across its five floors reveals not only the impressive collection but also the long history of the bunker, which was used as a Nazi air raid shelter and later became an underground techno club (you can still see vestiges of fluorescent paint in some rooms and stairwells). Tours (required) book up months in advance, so plan accordingly.

Memorial to the Murdered Jews of Europe Arrow

A short walk from Brandenburg Gate , this sprawling, maze-like set of 2,711 concrete columns is a haunting reminder of the atrocities and toll of World War II and Germany’s main memorial to the six million Jewish victims of the Holocaust. Officially called the Memorial to the Murdered Jews of Europe, the site occupies an entire 205,000-square-foot city block and was designed by American architect Peter Eisenman after an exhaustive 17-year planning process. The memorial’s abstract design offers no explanation or prescribed walking path, but simply invites visitors to enter and become swallowed in its tomb-like slabs.

East Side Gallery Arrow

With more than 100 paintings, the East Side Gallery is the world's largest (and longest) open-air art gallery. The 0.8-mile stretch of the Berlin Wall, which runs parallel to the Spree River, once trapped East Germans inside. But when the rest of the Wall came crumbling down in 1989, this stretch remained and became a concrete canvas for international artists, who splashed it with murals between February and June of 1990.

Tempelhofer Feld Arrow

Built by Hitler’s henchmen and used as a lifeline by some two million people during the Allied Airlift, Tempelhof Airport is now a sweeping urban playground that’s larger than Central Park . On sunny days, thousands of Berliners come to jog down the abandoned runways, bike under the old radar station, and grill next to grounded Cold War-era planes. Stay long enough and you’ll see beekeepers in the lawn, windsurfers on the runway, cricket players by the tarmac, zipliners in the forest, and much more.

Tiergarten Arrow

Berlin's signature park and "green lung," Tiergarten Park is a leafy 519-acre oasis that was once used as the hunting grounds of Berlin’s rulers (“Tiergarten” means “animal park”). These days, the boars and pheasants have moved on, and in their place a series of lakes, hiking paths, English gardens, and even a biergarten attract joggers, cyclists, and sunbathers. Towering over the center of the park, the gilded Siegessäule (Victory Column) is the most famous of Tiergarten’s many monuments and commemorates Prussian war victories. Nearby, the white Schloss Bellevue palace is where the German president lives. Elsewhere, don’t miss the manicured English Garden and teahouse, and Berlin’s most attractive and romantic biergarten, Café am Neuen See, where lovers can enjoy a pint, a pizza, and a paddle aboard a rowboat on the lake. It would take you days to see all of hte park—we recommend downshifting and taking your time here with a bike, a blanket, and a book.

Prater Garten Arrow

Prater Garden, Berlin's oldest biergarten, comprises almost a full acre of communal tables and benches. Although Germany’s capital city doesn't have the biergarten culture of Bavaria, this gem has been around since 1837—and has withstood the multiple tests of time for good reason. Like most biergartens, the atmosphere is relaxed and convivial: People focus on their company first and their drinks (think Pils and housemade dark beer) second. This is also Berlin's best spot for a bratwurst fix; nothing goes better with sun and bier than a grilled sausage, so choose from spicy or standard. Bavarian pretzels make for great beer-side snacks, too.

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19 Fun & Unusual Things to Do in Berlin

Home » Blog » Europe » Germany » 19 Fun & Unusual Things to Do in Berlin

Co-Authored by Guest Author: Grant Simon

Berlin is one of the best cities to visit in Europe for many reasons. Some people come for the party scene, some for the history, and some come just to soak in the culture of this famously open-minded city.

There are plenty of fun things to do in Berlin, but if you want to get off the tourist trail you’ll have to plan a bit more.

You can easily spend months exploring Berlin, but even if you’re on a short holiday and only have a couple days, you’ll still get a good feel for the city. And if you’re anything like me, you’ll want to come back for more!

I originally came to Berlin on a 6-month study abroad program in 2015. I loved living in the city so much, I came back and stayed another 3 months over the summer in 2016.

After having lived in this city for a total of 9 months, I’ve rounded up some of the best unusual things to do in Berlin.

1. Watch the sunset at Klunkerkranich

Like most European cities, Berlin comes to life during the summer months, but it has entirely different feel.

The city’s energy is so contagious it tempts visitors to stay an extra week or two. This is quite apparent enjoying a cocktail and the sunset at Klunkerkranich Bar in Neukolln. The open air rooftop bar is popular with locals and for good reason.

The drinks are reasonably priced and the sun setting behind the TV Tower engulfs the city in a beautiful fire orange hue. On a warm, summer evening it is difficult to find any place that is better.

2. Take The Berliner Unterwelten Tour

Berlin is a city that is constantly reminded of its not so distant past. While there are tons of tours on World War II/Cold War history in Berlin, the Berliner Unterwelten Tour ( Berlin Underground Tour ) is the one tour that blew my mind.

It is an underground museum that uncovers the secrets of Berlin, including former escape tunnels and WWII bunkers. The tour is well researched by experts who lead groups several times a day in various languages.

Be sure to book ahead to reserve a spot on these popular tours. As an added bonus, head across the street to the park and walk around the “Flak Towers” that were built by Hitler to defend the city from enemy aircraft.

3. Swim at Badeschiff

Image by @badeschiff_berlin on Instagram

Badeschiff is one of those places that you wish you could freeze time at. Open from May to September, the recreational area complete with a bar, restaurant, and a pool in the Spree River is the place to be in summer.

You can easily spend entire days, lounging in the poolside chairs, basking in Berlin’s hot summer sun. It is a popular local spot that deserves at least one full day when traveling in Germany . After a long winter, Berliners practically live outside in summer andyou’ll find the majority living it up at Badeschiff.

4. Stroll in Schoneberg

I have a fond place in my heart for this neighborhood. It was where I first lived when I arrived in Berlin and I quickly fell in love with the area’s laid back vibe.

It feels as if you are in a different city, but yet close enough to the hustle and bustle of Kreuzberg and Friedrichshain if you want that. There are many historical sites in Schoneberg . Home to Berlin’s LGBTQ community, Schoneberg has its own charm and appeal.

Buy local produce at the farmer’s market in Winterfeldtplatz

Take in the beautiful early 20th century architecture of Heinrich-von-Kleist Park

Finish a long day of adventure, enjoying hand-crafted cocktails at Berlin’s top-rated cocktail bar, Green Door

I always stumble upon something new whenever I return to visit Schoneberg and I am sure you will too!

5. Eat at Thai Park

20 years ago, Thai Park started off as a get together of Berlin’s Thai community in the Wilmersdorf neighborhood to celebrate their food and culture. The gathering slowly grew from yearly to monthly to weekly, and now daily.

The park where it happens is now known as “Thai Park” and it unofficially kicks off summer. Recently, there have been calls to close down the technically illegal gathering, but with over 19,000 likes on its Facebook page, I would say that’d be pretty difficult to do.

It is a chance to enjoy the sunshine and some amazing Asian food. There are even cultural events that take place now such as movies or dancing. This cannot be missed if you are in Berlin during the summer!

6. Day Trip to the Forbidden City

Calling all history buffs, abandoned building lovers, and adventurers. Located an hour south of the city limits, the “Forbidden City” is loaded with history stretching back to the 19th Century, and it makes a great day trip from Berlin .

It all started as a military area for the Prussian Army, then home to the Nazis’ command center during World War II, and finally, the area became the headquarters for the Soviet forces in Eastern Germany until September 1994. It has been abandoned since then, left rotting and battered by the elements.

Today, you can pay 15 Euros to visit the “Haus Der Offiziere” and see a Lenin statue, old Soviet maps, a theatre hall, and a swimming pool used by the 1936 German Olympic Team, the year Berlin played host to the Olympic Games. This is only a small section of the thousands of acres that were abandoned, but the place is teeming with history and incredible photo opportunities.

Be sure to wear sturdy walking shoes and use caution when walking around the site. This is an extremely unique side to Berlin that most travelers don’t get the chance to see first hand. It is well worth the day trip.

7. Chill out at HolzMarkt

Image by @poludok on Instagram

HolzMarkt is not one of those places you seek out. The only way you find a place like HolzMarkt is stumbling upon it. Luckily for you, I’ve already done that.

HolzMarkt is a community run area that includes a bar, restaurant, and coffee shop. It holds cultural events such as movie screenings.

The main attraction at HolzMarkt is its riverside seating that is fantastic for hanging out and watching the world sail by. It’s a great place to unwind after a long day of exploring Berlin.

8. Hip-Hop Night at Badehaus     

It’s no secret that Berlin has endless options when it comes to nightlife (Yes, I have gotten into Berghain…) Many people that come to Berlin overlook some of the smaller events that happen in the city, and that is a shame because I think those are the best for really understanding what Berlin is all about.

My favorite nightlife activity takes place on Tuesday nights at Badehaus Szimpla, located in the R.A.W area in Friedrichshain. The hip-hop night, put on by a group called SWAG Jam , is a lot of fun. It’s a great place to go and listen to some awesome music.

They’ve been at it for 6 years and they bring a great energy to the stage and they bring special guests out from all over the world. Sit back and let these talented artists blow your mind.

9. Enjoy a Spa Day

One thing you should know about Germans is that they love their spas. Almost every weekend I lived in Berlin, almost without fail, one of my German friends would invite me to go to a spa with them.

At first it may seem a bit strange, but who doesn’t love to hang out all day in comfy robes and slippers? There are tons of different spas in Berlin, but my favorite is Vabali. Located in Mitte, Vabali is centrally placed within the city. They have indoor and outdoor areas complete with saunas, baths, hot tubs, a restaurant, and bar. You will not be disappointed.

10. Have Dinner with Refugees

While touring and exploring the city, you may wonder about the refugee crisis that Germany was deeply affected by. While the crisis is still ongoing, the issue is hard to connect with without a name and face to think of. This is your chance to change all of that.

An extremely popular in thing to do in Berlin called Weekend Refugee Dinner is run by a Hungarian woman named Anna through the website Withlocals (here is Anna’s profile ). The dinner is made by local Syrian refugees who then break bread with paying guests.

The unique opportunity allows you to get to know some of stories behind the crisis and is a great experience for anyone that wants to open their mind to how these refugees live day in and day out. The dinners are often booked months in advance (and sometimes Anna is busy, like everyone else) so be sure to contact Anna as soon as possible.

If you can’t book the dinner, there are plenty of other Withlocal experiences to try our around Berlin.

11. A Walk in Grunewald

Image by @studiosupply on Instagram

If you ever go outside of Berlin, you’ll notice how green the scenery is. That’s because Berlin used to be a swamp. The swamp is long gone and filled in, but you can still get a healthy dose of nature on the edge of Charlottenburg in Grunewald (Green Forest).

While walking in the forest, you may stumble upon Teufelsberg (Devil’s Mountain), a former British and American spy tower that is now a museum.

12. Stammtisch at Prater

Germany loves their stammtisch. Stammtisch , German for an informal gathering of a group usually after work, is a time honored tradition. Nowhere does it better than Prater Beer Garden in Berlin’s Prenzlauer Berg neighborhood.

On warm days, they have benches outside to have a cold beer and enjoy the great weather. You can grab your own bench, but later in the night as more beers are served, people get up and mingle. It’s hard not to walk away with new friends at the end of Stammtisch.

13. Visit the DDR Museum

Berlin has TONS of museums from everything from history to sausage to cars. It even has its own Museum Island that is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

The most unique museum, however, is right next to Museum Island. It’s called the DDR (GDR) Museum and it details life in the former German Democratic Republic or East Germany as it’s more commonly known.

Inside the museum, they have a old typewriters, a typical car, and model of a 120 square meter apartment. The wallpaper looks terrible! It’s fascinating to imagine what life would have been like in the former communist country.

14. Eat a vegan meal

Though the first German food most people think of is bratwurst, Berlin actually has a huge variety of vegan restaurants. And with stiff competition, the quality is high.

Simply type “vegan” into Google Maps and you’ll see a plethora of options to choose from.

Here are a few of Berlin’s top-rated vegan restaurants and cafes:

1990 Vegan Living

Lia’s Kitchen

SORA Vietnamese Vegan

15. Spot the street art

Berlin has mural after mural, and if you’re a fan of street art, you’ll feel like you’re on a scavenger hunt! From the beautiful, thought-provoking murals to the downright strange pieces of art, Berlin truly has it all!

Simply wander the city and you’ll find lots, or if you don’t want to miss any big pieces, follow this Berlin street art map to help guide your way.

16. Visit Prinzessinnengärten

This urban garden project in the heart of Kreuzberg is supported by the neighborhood volunteers. Part community garden, part art space, part cafe, a wander through Prinzessinnengärten is relaxing and uplifting.

Grab a coffee or a bite to eat in order to support the projects happening here.

17. Pick an unusual Airbnb Experience

We love the idea of Airbnb Experiences because it gives you the opportunity to meet and support a local and do something interesting or quirky in their hometown.

Berlin has a ton of unique Airbnb Experiences to choose from, like cheese-making, absinthe cocktail tasting, and an underground dance party tour! It could be the most unusual thing to do in Berlin that you try!

18. Grab food at Markthalle Neun

This indoor market and food hall is fun to visit year round, and you can find everything from butcher stalls selling fresh cuts of meat to artisan chocolate stands. It’s a great place to wander, people-watch, buy some local products or grab a bite to eat.

Insider Tip: If it works out with your travel schedule, check out “Street Food Thursday” which is each Thursday from 5 – 10 p.m.

19. See a Comedy Show

Laughter is universal, and one of the best ways to get your giggle on is to find a comedy show. Luckily, there are many comedy clubs where performers speak in English, making it easier for all us non-German speakers to get the joke.

Check out this schedule to see if there is a comedy show during your travel dates in Berlin.

Where to stay in Berlin

The Circus Hotel Berlin (where Katie stayed!)

Berlin has no shortage of options when it comes to hotels. From seriously luxurious digs to private Airbnb apartments to funky and social Berlin hostels , there’s something for every type of traveler. 

Splurge Hotel in Berlin

Art Otel Berlin

With stunning rooms and some extra comforts, this Berlin hotel is perfect for couples wanting a special and memorable stay. Check availability on Booking.com .

Mid-Range Hotel in Berlin

The Circus Hotel

Located in the heart fo the city, this hotel has quirky decor, a cozy restaurant, bicycle rentals and affordable rates. Check availability on Booking.com .

Budget Hostel in Berlin

The Circus Hostel

With dorms and private rooms available, this hostel has a social atmosphere and vibrant designs. Check availability on Booking.com .

Private Apartment

Airbnb Loft

This Airbnb is well-located, beautifully decorated and affordable. Check availability on Airbnb.com .

We have loads of info on how to book Airbnbs, red flags to watch out for when booking, and our favorite Airbnbs in our Airbnb article

About the Author

Grant Simon is an entrepreneur, writer, personal trainer, Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu practitioner and an endorphins chaser. He has climbed a volcano in Chile, swam with sharks in the Galapagos Islands, and survived a motorcycle crash in Thailand. Besides raising his heart rate in over 35 countries, the Chicago native enjoys birdwatching, reading the newspaper, and eating too many pancakes in one sitting. He is currently based in Montréal, plotting his next bold move.

Check out his blog at Carryon Travel Fitness .

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Comments (3) on “ 19 Fun & Unusual Things to Do in Berlin ”

I also think that Schöneberg has beautiful sites. At Winterfeldtplatz, Goltzstraße and Eisenacher Straße you can find great restaurants and designer stores. But still we don’t want to give up our currywurst. We always eat our currywurst at a typical snack bar, preferably at Curry Wolf on Ku’Damm or directly at the Brandenburg Gate. Perfect to briefly interrupt sightseeing and fortify yourself.

OMG amazing recommendations xxx

Thank you so much for taking the time to write this. We did so much from your awesome list during our weekend in Berlin and want to thank you for your recommendations.

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16 Most Unique and Crazy Things to Do in Berlin, Germany

By: Author Tim Kroeger

Posted on Published: November 17, 2016  - Last updated: December 7, 2023

Sixteen unique and crazy things to do in Berlin that you must put on your bucket list when you visit Berlin. Best Berlin sightseeing and places to visit in Berlin

Berlin, Germany, is rich in history and culture; there are numerous Berlin tourist attractions.

Any Berlin guidebook will provide you with an endless list of the best places to visit in Berlin.

However, this post is for you if you want something different in Berlin.

This post covers 16 of the best unique and crazy things to do in Berlin .

Some of the more unusual things to do in Berlin include visiting a Berlin Tropical Island and exploring weird and unusual art-like galleries, including Monster Kabinett and Design Panoptikum.

Berlin also has prisons with a terrifying past, like Hohenschoenhausen prison; you can swim in the Badeschiff pool as it floats in the River Spree or swim at Liquidrom while listening to the coolest Berlin DJs and stacks.

Read also: All you need to know about transportation in Germany

I recommend getting the Berlin Welcome Card for a 25 to 50% discount at many attractions, tours, and restaurants. The card also includes public transportation.

Table of Contents

Best crazy things to do in Berlin

1. tropical island berlin.

You might be surprised to hear that there is a Berlin Tropical Island.

This tropical island, Berlin, is entirely artificial and housed in a massive airship hangar, the most enormous free-standing hall in the world.

The hangar was initially built to protect giant airships from the elements but is now home to the biggest indoor rainforest in the world, a beach, many tropical plants, numerous swimming pools, bars, restaurants, and accommodation, and is open 24 hours a day every day of the year.

The pools are designed to resemble gorgeous oceans and lagoons.

The Tropical Sea covers 4,400 square meters, while the Bali Lagoon covers 1,200 square meters. 

The pools also include several water slides, sandy beaches, and whirlpools.

There is even a Truman Show-like backdrop of blue sky, complete with fluffy white clouds.

Other features of the Tropical Islands include a children’s play area, spa, various sporting activities, a golf course, and even real flamingos in the mangroves!

Visitors can visit for a few hours or stay overnight in lodges, beach huts, or even at the campsite.

Tropical Islands in Berlin are located approximately 60 kilometers south of Berlin, and day tickets commence at 42 euros.

Head to the Tropical Islands website for more information.

Tropical Islands is undoubtedly one of the more unique places to visit and one of the most fun things to do in Berlin.

Location: Tropical-Islands-Allee 1, 15910 Krausnick, Germany

Opening Times:

Resort: Open 24/7, including accommodations

Water Park: Typically open from 8:00 AM to 11:30 PM (times may vary; check the website for specific dates)

Admission Fee:

Day Tickets: Prices vary (Approx. €42 for adults, €33 for children 6-14 years, free for children under 5)

Overnight Stay: Additional costs depending on accommodation type

Phone Number: +49 35477 605050

2. Liquidrom Berlin

One of the most relaxing alternative things to do in Berlin is to visit the Liquidrom.

At Liquidrom Berlin , you can enjoy a relaxing swim in complete silence while listening to classical or electronic music underwater. 

You will love the relaxed yet cool atmosphere, dimmed lighting, underwater color, and light effects.

Liquidrom also has other pools where talking is permitted and four nude saunas.

In the Finnish Sauna, you can enjoy a variety of different special infusions with intriguing names such as “Time of Peace,” “Crystal Ice Infusion,” and “Hellfire.”

The Spa holds musical gigs weekly, so you can relax while listening to some of Berlin’s most talented artists and DJs.

Check their website for the infusions schedule and the weekly music events.

3. Street Art Tour Berlin

If you’re interested in doing a Berlin Street Art tour, check out Alternative Berlin .

These guys organize graffiti tours around the city’s back streets, showing you some of the latest, greatest, and oldest examples of street art, graffiti, and mural art.

The guides are, in fact, street artists/graffiti writers and know where to find the best art, as well as give you some insight into the people behind the art and their motivations for their work.

You will also learn how the community corporate about graffiti and the unspoken rules that the culture to bloom.

Tours are on Mondays, Wednesdays, Fridays, and Saturdays at noon and go for around 5 hours and also includes the opportunity to have a go at your own street art on canvas. 

They also provide free tours every day at 11 am and 1 pm, which go for around 3 hours.

To join the tours, meet the guide at the Alexanderplatz TV Tower next to the Starbucks entrance.

Tours can be purchased here or booked in advance online. You must also have a valid AM metro ticket for all tours.

Put these tours on your list if you are after more alternative Berlin top attractions.

*Tip: Join the Alternative Berlin by Bike Tour  to the largest remaining piece of the Berlin Wall and the trendy district of Kreuzberg.

4. Monster Kabinett Berlin

Monster Kabinett Berlin is an exciting collection of massive robotic creatures, metal sculptures, and insect-like creations within a warehouse.

Visitors can visit the part art gallery part performance each Thursday, Friday, and Saturday night.

While attempting to decipher which creations are sculptures or humans, visitors are haunted by strange moving robots, sculptures, and intimidating and scary actors.

Monster Kabinett Berlin is located on Rosenthaler Street and welcomes children from 6 years old.

A visit to Monster Kabinett is a must-see in Berlin if you are searching for some weird things to do in Berlin.

5. BonAppetour – Best Food in Berlin

Berlin is one of the most wonderful places in the world and has some of the best food.

If you consider yourself a foodie and are looking for the best places to eat in Berlin, it is highly recommended that you dine with a local .

BonAppetour is a fantastic app where you can connect with locals who invite you into their homes and cook you some of the best food in Berlin.

On BonAppetour, you will find a range of locals inviting travelers to come to their homes for some authentic German food for a fee.

As well as trying out some of the best German food, it’s also a great way to meet locals and other travelers.

Other great places to eat in Berlin include the Berlin Turkish Market. Here you can try some great Berlin street food and fresh produce, spices, cheeses, and sweets.

This Turkish Market is located in Kreuzberg, just off Kottbusser Tor.

Hop on the U1 (Kottbusser Tor Station) or the U8 (Schönleinstrasse Station) to get here. You can’t miss it. It takes place on Tuesdays and Fridays from 11 AM to 6:30 PM.

6. Badeschiff Berlin

A swim in the Badeschiff Berlin pool is another one of the quirky, crazy things to do in Berlin.

The Badeschiff pool is a swimming pool converted from an old 30-meter barge. The pool now floats in the River Spree by the East Harbour.

Swimmers can enjoy panoramic views of the Berlin city center while having a dip. The floating pool is connected to the river bank by a footbridge.

On the riverbank, there is a bar, and DJs are a regular occurrence.

The Badeschiff pool is open daily from 8 am to midnight, and the entrance is 5.50 Euro per adult. 6. Volkspark Wuhlheide Berlin

Popular Berlin parks are Treptower Park and Mauerpark.

However, the less-known Volkspark Wuhlheide is a beautiful park for those looking for a peaceful and natural experience.

Volkspark Wuhlheide is a large recreation and amusement park with open fields, tall trees, and even a miniature railway.

Other park features include sports areas, a dance floor, a pool, a toboggan run, and the model park of Berlin-Brandenburg, which contains more than 60 models of famous sights from Berlin and Branden burg.

Volkspark Wuhlheide is open all day, every day.

7. Design Panoptikum Berlin  

Another one of the weird and wonderful places to visit in Berlin is the Design Panoptikum.

Design Panoptikum Berlin is a museum filled with rare and unusual items that visitors will think they have entered the world of a mad scientist.

Among the more than 3,000 strange-looking industrial objects are dentist chairs, prostheses, lamps, and shop window mannequins.

The arrangements of the artifacts provide for creative interpretations. Visitors are often asking, “What in the world is that?”

Design Panoptikum is located on Poststr. 7 in Nikolaiviertel and is open Monday through Saturday from 11 am to 6 pm.

Design Panoptikum is undoubtedly one of the best places to visit in Berlin for anyone interested in strange and intriguing objects.

8. Take an Underground Berlin Tour

While many of Berlin’s main points of interest are above-ground, you will also find underground must-see Berlin places.

An underground Berlin tour will take you through WWII air raid shelters and tunnels to smuggle people out of East Germany.

The Berlin underground tour is run by Berlin Unterwelten, who preserves these underground structures for public viewing.

These original Berlin tours are based in a former air-raid bunker, the Unterwelten Berlin Museum. Objects on display include ammunition, grenades, gas masks, and Hitler’s vision for rebuilding Berlin.

The underground tour Berlin Unterwelten offers is one of the top things to do in Berlin; you will undoubtedly find the underground in Berlin intriguing.

The museum is located at the southern entrance to the Gesundbrunnen underground station (in front of Kaufland).

Visit their website for more information about the tours.

9. Hohenschonhausen Berlin Memorial

Inside the Hohenschonhausen Berlin Memorial, you can see the darker side of Berlin’s history.

Guides take you through the Hohenschonhausen prison, which houses 44 years of political persecution, to give you an authentic experience of the prison conditions from 1946 to 1990.

On display are 300 photos and nearly 500 artifacts, including prison clothes and letters from inmates, showing the everyday lives of both prisoners.

You can also visit the museum for free without a guide. However, a guided tour with a former inmate provides a more in-depth and moving experience.

The museum is open daily from 9 am to 6 pm; entry is free.

Hohenschonhausen is one of the best places to see in Berlin for travelers interested in Germany’s dark history.

11. Topography of Terror Berlin

The Topography of Terror Berlin is an outdoor and indoor history museum located in buildings that once housed the Sicherheitspolizei, SD, Einsatzgruppen, and Gestapo headquarters.

The Topography of Terrors is now a memorial and museum detailing the history of repression under the Nazis and is one of the most frequently visited places in Berlin.

The Topography of Terror museum is open daily from 10 am to 8 pm and free admission. On Sundays, the museum offers free guided tours in both German and English.

The Topography of Terror museum is another of the best places to go in Berlin for those travelers interested in Germany’s dark history.

12. Free Walking Tour Berlin

Some of the best things to do in Berlin are free! And if you are interested in a free walking tour, Berlin has some great options.

If you are after a Berlin free walking tour that takes you to all the usual tourist spots, groups like Sandeman Tours Berlin and New Berlin are ideal. 

Or grab yourself a Berlin walking tour map and create your tour.

However, if you are after something a little different, join a tour with the Original Berlin Tours.

Original Berlin Tours will give you an alternative way to get an insight into Berlin. Your tour guide will take you to see street art and graffiti, community projects, the coolest Berlin bars, and more.

13. Visit the Reichstag Dome

The Reichstag building is one of the city’s most significant historical buildings and the current home of the German parliament.

Every year, thousands of travelers visit the Reichstag for its incredible panoramic views, architectural wonder, and historical importance.

The glass Reichstag dome sits directly above the parliament’s debating chambers, so visitors can view the parliamentary proceedings below.

For security reasons, to reach the dome, visitors must make prior registration; you must also show ID before entry.

There is also a restaurant at the dome, which provides a fantastic view of Berlin.

Open daily, 8 am to 12 midnight, with admission until 10 pm. A visit to the Reichstag is a Berlin must-see for the fantastic views alone.

14. Spreepark Berlin

Spreepark Berlin is an abandoned dinosaur amusement park just outside of Berlin. The park has been abandoned for over 15 years, but that doesn’t stop visitors from coming.

Visitors see the life-sized dinosaurs, including fallen Tyrannosaurs and the old roller coaster coming out of a creature’s mouth.

While strict security has recently made it almost impossible to get inside Berlin Spreepark, there is a lovely promenade around the park that also provides glimpses inside the abandoned park.

It is also understood that from 2018, guided tours will be offered around the abandoned amusement park.

These tours will allow you to view the remnants of the park close up, and you will have the opportunity to learn about the park’s fascinating history as it operated under a communist government and its park administrator, who smuggled cocaine in via ride equipment.

A guided tour of Spreepark would undoubtedly be one of the most exciting things to see in Berlin.

15. Crazy Things to Do in Berlin at Night – Berlin Nightlife

If you are looking for things to do in Berlin at night, check out Berlin’s nightlife.

Berlin has a vibrant nightlife culture, so it is an excellent city for fans of bars, lounges, and clubs.

While there are numerous great nightspots, some are unique and will fire you up.

Tausend is one of the ideal spots; it is a contemporary space with a dark mood and a clean steel and mirror interior.

Spindler & Klatt is a riverside nightspot with an understated glamour for a great class.

The weekend features a rooftop terrace, a sleek bar, and a great dance floor for guests, so it is a must-see spot.

16. Enjoy Clarchens Ballhaus Berlin

Clarchens Ballhaus is designed to allow guests to relive the olden days filled with traditional European culture.

Established in 1913, this venue is a dance hall with a restaurant in the center of Berlin. The revitalized center has an in-house band that creates a nostalgic feeling and spacious dance rooms.

Patrons are from all walks of life, with prominent people like actress Charlotte Rampling Tango, Rocker Marilyn Manson, Campino, the singer of the band “Toten Hosen” and Klaus Maria Brandauer were even spotted here.

It is a romantic spot, and you can have dinner in the restaurant downstairs before or after visiting the dance hall.

Berlin Tip:

More day tours in Berlin, Germany

Get Your Guide helps you find the best tours wherever you are heading. It’s usually the first website I check when I plan a trip to a new place.

The following widget shows some of the  best tours in Berlin, Germany .

Frequently Asked Questions

Protect your trip: With all our travel experience, we highly recommend you hit the road with travel insurance! SafetyWing offers flexible & reliable Digital Nomads Travel Medical Insurance at just a third of the price of similar competitor plans.

Is there an unusual dining experience in Berlin?

Yes, try “Dunkelrestaurant Unsicht-Bar,” where you dine in complete darkness, heightening your other senses.

What is a must-visit quirky attraction in Berlin?

The Liquidrom is a futuristic spa with saltwater pools and underwater music, offering a unique relaxation experience.

What’s a unique historical experience in Berlin?

Visiting the Teufelsberg, a former NSA listening station, now a hub for urban art and history.

Is there a unique nightlife spot in Berlin?

Check out KitKatClub, known for its unconventional, boundary-pushing parties.

Where can I find unique art in Berlin?

Visit the East Side Gallery, a section of the Berlin Wall turned into an open-air gallery.

Is there a unique shopping experience in Berlin?

Explore Mauerpark Flea Market, famous for its eclectic mix of antiques, art, and vintage items.

• About the Author

Tim Kroeger is a seasoned professional in International Tourism Management, specializing in Luxury Adventure Travel , Luxury Hotel Reviews , and Tourism in Costa Rica .

Expertises: International Tourism Management, Tourism in Costa Rica, International tourism advertising, Adventure travel, Luxury Adventure Travel

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Really thanks for sharing this useful post !! Berlin is a nice place to visit for holidays and I will definitely visit these places with my friends.

Really thanks for sharing this useful post !! Germany is a nice place to visit for holidays and I will definitely do all these things with my friends.

Last year we traveled to Berlin and enjoyed the vibrant nightlife culture of Berlin it was really enjoyable and fantastic.

Really Thanks a lot for this informative Post with images. Berlin is a nice place and I have no any idea about these places but after reading this post and see images I feel wow its amazing place. And really I will go there in these places with my family

thanks for sharing information

I’m missing on this list Clärchens Ballhaus, not-so-hidden gem :)

Going to Visit Berlin next week as I don’t know much about it so I was looking for a blog to know the best things to there thanks for this information. As Know I know What to do there.

I have been to Berlin many times and most of all I remember it for its beautiful architecture.

@podborfilmov.ru, yes, the architecture is really impressive. Berlin has so many old and beautiful buildings :)

When we are in Berlin, a visit to the Brandenburg Gate is always a must. For the real Berlin feeling, we always get a currywurst at Curry Wolf at the Brandenburg Gate, along with a glass of champagne and enjoy the view of the Brandenburg Gate, the TV Tower and the Hotel Adlon.

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50+ Incredible Things to do in Berlin (from a local)

Whether you’re after a weekend packed full of partying, a city break with brunch, markets and bars galore or a trip discovering history, Berlin will deliver.

Start planning your must-do activities with this guide, sharing the insider lowdown on all of Berlin’s best bits. I’ve lived in Berlin for three years: here are 52 things I love to do that you should definitely check out when in Berlin.

Ads are how we pay our bills and keep our blog free for you to enjoy. We also use affiliate links; if you make a purchase through them, we may receive a small commission at no cost to you.

The Absolute Must-Do Activities ✅

If you can do everything on this Berlin list , do it. But if you’re time is limited, these are my Berlin faves:

• Walk along the former Berlin wall
• Grab a delicious takeaway falafel
• Visit Tempelhofer Feld
• Cool off at a lake in Grünewald
• Visit the Turkish Market at Maybachufer
• Stay at Hotel am Steinplatz

Getting around Berlin

If you’re staying in Berlin for a few days, you’re probably going to want to invest in a weekly pass for the public transport. Berlin’s not a walkable city by any means but the maze of buses, trams and S + U Bahns (read: trains) mean you’ll get around in no time.

You can also get a Berlin Hop on Hop off ticket to see the most important sites. Or of course rent a car or book guided tours to explore the city.

52 of the Best Places to Go, Restaurants, Clubs and Things to do in Berlin

1. visit the turkish market at maybachufer.

The chaos and vibrancy of Maybachufer’s Turkish market (Maybachufer, 12047 Berlin) makes it my favorite in Berlin.

On Tuesdays and Fridays, stalls are set up alongside the Landwehr Canal in Kreuzberg, with fruit and veg nestled among lunch offerings, fabric stands, freshly made tahini, local cheese, handmade jewelry and so much more.

Visit for a fun afternoon of browsing and make sure you arrive hungry enough to grab a bite to eat!

2. Check out the East Side Gallery

If you’ve begun researching your Berlin trip, the East Side Gallery (Mühlenstraße 3-100, 10243 Berlin) is probably already on your must-see list.

This part of the former Berlin wall is covered in graffiti dating back to the 1980s. Wander along with your camera and snap pictures of your favorite street art. Don’t be confused by the word ‘gallery’ though – there’s no entrance fee or opening times, you can just turn up.

3. Walk along the former Berlin Wall

Learning about Berlin’s rich history is an essential thing to do on your visit. One of the best (and free!) ways to do that is to walk along the site of the former Berlin wall (Bernauer Str. 50, 10435 Berlin), learning the history of Germany’s DDR era from the open air museum as you go. Start at Bernauerstraße opposite Mauerpark and follow the signs all the way to the Berlin Wall Memorial.

4. Visit Tempelhofer Feld

Not many cities can boast a disused airport as one of their top hang-out spots – but Berlin’s Tempelhofer Feld (Tempelhofer Damm, 12101 Berlin) is a favorite green space of countless Berliners. The flat, grassy field is pretty vast, with a circumference of 6 kilometers, and is criss-crossed with running tracks for joggers, cyclists, skaters, roller skaters and even wind skaters.

You’ll also see people trying out circus lifts, practicing diablo or working on their juggling skills. Head down to try out a sport of your own or simply grab a beer, sit back and observe the fun.

5. Take advantage of the Museum Sonntag offer

Trying to see every activity a city has to offer can get expensive – but if you happen to be visiting Berlin during the first weekend of the month, you may be able to snag free entrance to a museum on Sunday, when many museums and galleries are free.

Tickets are released a month in advance, so keep an eye on the website and make sure to act fast when they’re live. Even if your museum of choice is sold out, there will be plenty more to choose from, so take a chance on the available tickets and surprise yourself!

6. Grab a delicious takeaway falafel

While tourists may think of typical German food as Currywurst or Pretzels, in Berlin, falafel is undoubtedly a typical local dish. Not only are there countless falafel shops to choose from but you also need to decide whether you want to sample Turkish, Lebanese or Sudanese falafel – or all three!

The jury’s out on which is the best falafel in Berlin, but one thing’s for sure: Neuköln and Wedding are the neighborhoods where you’ll find the most authentic selection.

You won’t have to break the bank to enjoy falafel in Berlin either: expect to pay between 4-6€ for a wrap that’ll fill you up all afternoon.

7. Go crazy at a day rave

Berliners love to party – and on a few days of the year, the party spreads right out into the streets. Time your visit with the 1st of May (worker’s day), Christopher Street Day (Berlin’s pride parade, in mid-July) or Rave the Planet (a celebration of techno music in early July) for a day party to remember.

You’ll find trucks in the streets blasting music, pop-up DJ booths in parks or on balconies and thousands of people having the time of their life. Be sure to pack a great outfit as dressing up is part of the fun.

The best part? All of these day rave parties are free to enjoy. Make sure to pack some cold drinks though, as vendors selling booze at the site of the parades are pretty expensive.

8. Cool off at a lake in Grünewald

You might not have realized that a day at the beach is a great Berlin activity. I’m here to tell you that it’s a must on your Berlin bucket list! The city boasts 3000 lakes that offer sandy beaches, shady trees and clear waters to cool off in.

Take Me To The Lakes has a great directory that details all the best spots to check out – but the lakes in the forest of Grünewald are a classic option. Situated at the western edge of the city, you’ll just have to jump on a train or hire a bike to cycle through the woods before you’re enjoying a day relaxing in nature.

Depending on whether there’s a cafe or other facilities, I’d recommend packing a picnic, and if it’s a hot summer Saturday, go early to nab the best sunbathing spot.

9. Bar hop on Weserstraße

If you want to grab a drink in Neuköln, Weserstraße is the place to go. From exquisite cocktails at Yuma to drag shows at queer bar Silver Future to table football at Ä, you’re sure to find a fun place to drink the night away. Make sure to end the night by grabbing a kebab or falafel at one of the countless nearby takeaways: not only will it help your hangover in the morning but it’s sure to be delicious.

10. Try your luck at Berghain

Getting rejected from Berghain (Am Wriezener bhf, 10243 Berlin) is a Berlin rite of passage. To increase your chances of being let past the legendary bouncer Sven and allowed entrance into Berlin’s mecca of techno, bring your punkiest outfit and best don’t-care attitude.

To skip hours of queuing, try coming early on Sunday morning instead of on Saturday night: by exchanging breakfast for a boogie, you’ll be partying alongside way more locals than tourists too.

11. Have fun at KitKat

Visiting Berlin’s infamous sex club may not be on everyone’s to-do list – but if you want to explore your sensual side and have a crazy travel story to bring back home, KitKat Club (Köpenicker Straße 76, Brückenstraße 1, 10179 Berlin) is the place to go.

Exit Heinrich-Heine-Straße U Bahn station and you’ll find the queue – expect to wait for up to 3 hours if you arrive after midnight. The bouncers will ask to see your outfit, so go shopping in one of Berlin’s kink shops for a suitable look beforehand and hope they like what they see.

Inside the club, you can enjoy the pool, dance to techno sets and if you’re feeling inspired, find a (not so) private corner to have fun. No phones are allowed and consent is the name of the game: you’ll be respected by other punters and if you feel uncomfortable, staff will support you.

12. Party at Sisyphos

Another must-visit Berlin club, Sisyphos (Hauptstraße 15, 10317 Berlin) is best suited to a sunny day where you can enjoy the outdoor stages before heading inside as night falls. Comprised of 5 stages overall, you’ll find a mix of house and techno set among beautiful gardens with a beachside atmosphere. If you’re hungry, grab pizza or chips from the vendors, while the bars will supply you with drinks all night long. As for the outfits, Sisyphos is a place to express your individual style, so dig through your suitcase for your most colorful, vibrant clothes.

13.   Watch the sunset at Modersohnbrücke

Berlin has several picturesque places to watch the sunset – but one of the best is a simple bridge in Friedrichshain (10245 Berlin-Friedrichshain-Kreuzberg) that becomes a hive of activity come dusk. Grab a beer from a nearby Späti (convenience store) and find a spot looking west to enjoy views across the city as the sun comes down.

14. Try karaoke at Mauerpark Market

A quick language lesson: ‘Mauer’ is German for ‘wall’, hence the name Mauerpark for Berlin’s patch of green that is located at the site of the former Berlin wall. Come to the park on Sunday to check out its infamous flea market (Bernauer Str., 13355 Berlin), where vendors sell everything from vintage clothes to furniture to handmade soap in the shape of vaginas (yep, you read right.)

Once you’re done browsing, grab a drink and watch the outdoor karaoke that is one of the market’s main attractions – if all that beer’s got you feeling brave, you can even join in.

15. Enjoy an afternoon of skating

If you visit Berlin in the summer (which, by the way, you totally should), you’ll likely see plenty of skaters zooming through the streets. If hopping on a board is your thing – or if you’ve been itching to try – rent a board and join the countless people practicing their tricks or whiling away the afternoons at Tempelhofer Feld or Mauerpark.

16. Browse the day away at Boxi Market

This square in Friedrichshain (Grünberger Str. 75, 10245 Berlin) transforms into a bustling marketplace at the weekends. Come on Saturday to check out the food market, where you can pick up a delicious breakfast, organic groceries or artisan gifts for the foodies in your life.

On Sundays, vintage treasure is the name of the game, with a selection of clothes and furniture making for a fun few hours of browsing.

17. Take a street art walking tour

There’s street art galore in Berlin, so pay attention when wandering around and plenty of murals will catch your eye. But if you’re keen to hear more context about the graffiti you’re looking at, definitely sign up for a street art tour .

While the East Side Gallery has some of Berlin’s most famous murals, there are loads more to see that most tourists wouldn’t catch.

18. Try standup paddle boarding

If you’re hanging out on the side of the canal or river with a beer in hand (one of my favorite Berlin pastimes) you’ll see plenty of people floating by on stand up paddle boards. Rent a board (and a lesson if needed) or sign up for a Paddle Board Tour to give SUP-ing a go yourself – you’ll get a whole new perspective on Berlin from the water.

19. Go to the opera

If you want an evening full of glamor, visiting one of Berlin’s opera houses is the way to go. Get your glad rags on and arrive in time to take plenty of photos of the stunning architecture and interior before the show starts. Definitely book in advance and look out for operas with English subtitles so you can follow the story as well as enjoy the show.

20. Visit rooftop bar Klunkerkranich

A rooftop bar with city-wide views that has a great food selection and plays DJ sets as the sun comes down: what more could you ask for?

Finding Klunkerkranich (Karl-Marx-Straße 66, 12043 Berlin) is a little tricky (the bar is at the top of a shopping center in Neuköln) but don’t let that put you off. Follow the instructions on their website, bring cash for the 5-10€ entrance fee and be prepared to queue if you come after 8pm. But don’t worry, you can already enjoy the view as you wait.

21. Visit Schloss Charlottenburg

Never mind Buckingham Palace, Berlin has its own decadent house and gardens in the Charlottenburg district in the west of the city: the Schloss Charlottenburg (Spandauer Damm 10-22, 14059 Berlin), which has been a Unesco World Heritage Site since 1990. Turn up with enough time to explore the palace’s countless rooms boasting baroque interiors, before wandering through the vast expanse of gardens.

22. Float down the river in a hot tub

Keen to see Berlin from a different perspective? Try floating down the Spree (Berlin’s river) in a hot tub – yes, really! Berlin Bootsverleih rents out boats with hot tubs so you can chill out and get cracking views at the same time. Bring along some Sekt (German sparkling wine) for the ride and have an evening to remember.

23. Learn about DDR history at the Stasi Museum

Checking out museums is surely on your Berlin to-do list. But don’t just stick to museum island: if you venture east to Berlin’s Lichtenberg district, you’ll discover the Stasi Museum (Normannenstraße 20/Haus 1, 10365 Berlin) located in the former Stasi headquarters on a street full of buildings with typical DDR architecture.

The museum offers a unique insight into Berlin’s communist past – book a guided tour if you want to maximize your experience.

24. Eat your heart out at the Thai food market

Berlin’s Wilmersdorf district is where Thai food rules supreme. While visiting a restaurant in this neighborhood may be ideal in winter, if you’re visiting Berlin on a sunny Sunday afternoon, checking out the Thai food market in Preußenpark (Brandenburgische Str., 10707 Berlin) is a must.

You’ll enjoy the hustle and bustle of countless stalls whose mouth-watering dishes will all compete for your attention – but don’t worry, whatever you choose is likely to be delicious. Grab a lassi to accompany your meal and find a spot in the park to tuck in.

25. Prenzlauer Berg

Prenzlauer Berg is one of Berlin’s most picturesque districts. This area in the former east boasts turn-of-the-century architecture, parks including the Wasserturm and Volkspark Friedrichshain (confusingly located at the border between Prenzlauer Berg and Friedrichshain) and countless bars, cafes and restaurants to refuel before you explore further.

Check out the neighborhoods Kollwitzkiez or Bötzowviertel for all of this in abundance, along with some seriously great boutique shopping if your wallet will allow it.

26. Go bouldering

The bouldering craze has well and truly hit Berlin – if you’re a keen boulderer, or just fancy trying out a new skill, turn up at one of the city’s many bouldering halls where you can hire shoes and get stuck in. Try Ostbloc (Hauptstraße 13, 10317 Berlin) for a bouldering session  followed by pizza and beer on the riverside as you watch the sun go down.

27. Grab a drink on Simon-Dach-Straße

If you fancy an evening of bar hopping, trying specialty cocktails and soaking up Berlin’s evening vibe before heading on to a nearby club, Simon-Dach-Straße in Friedrichshain will deliver. Primitiv is a must visit, as is cult gay bar Himmelreich ; just remember to bring plenty of cash as many establishments don’t take cards.

28. Visit the Jewish Museum

Berlin’s Jewish Museum (Lindenstraße 9-14, 10969 Berlin) is a must-visit. The poignant and powerful exhibit in Kreuzberg will teach you about Jewish history through the ages. Crucially, you’ll also learn about Germany’s role in shaping Jewish history, providing valuable context as you continue to explore Berlin.

29. Walk among cherry blossom trees

While the very center of Berlin may be dominated by gray concrete buildings, the city has countless beautiful spots if you know where to look. If you’re visiting in April, checking out the cherry blossom trees is a great activity that’ll leave your camera roll full of Instagram-worthy pictures.

Try walking along Käthe-Niederkirchner-Straße in Prenzlauer Berg to see a street full of trees in bloom – or if you have time to head out of the city, Kirschbaumallee, a park in Brandenburg, has a whole field full of trees.

Before you commit to the day trip, research if the cherry blossom is in bloom by asking in Google Map reviews, on Reddit or in Facebook groups. Berliners who have been already will let you know if the flowers are out!

30. Enjoy an evening of jazz

If techno isn’t your music genre of choice, don’t worry: Berlin has plenty more to offer you. The city’s jazz bars are a great place to while away an evening, listening to concerts, jam sessions and improvised sets alike. Check out B Flat in Mitte or Yorckschlösschen in Schöneberg for plenty of the above – and indulge in a great cocktail while you’re at it.

31. Take a day trip to Potsdam

Staying in Berlin throughout your whole visit would mean missing out on everything Brandenburg, the district surrounding Berlin, has to offer.

Take a train to Potsdam (don’t forget to extend your travel pass to the C zone!) and check out the New Palace with its beautifully landscaped gardens. Then take a walk through the town’s charming streets to refuel with coffee or lunch before heading back to Berlin.

Top Tour: Potsdam Private Walking Tour With A Professional Guide

32. Check out impressionist art at the Barberini

While you’re in Potsdam, make time to visit the Barberini (Humboldtstraße 5-6, 14467 Potsdam). The art museum hosts an impressive collection of impressionist work alongside temporary exhibits. If you’re a fan of Monet, look no further: the museum has 39 of his works, the most of any museum in Europe outside of Paris.

33. Take a historical walking tour

If you want to truly get to grips with Berlin’s textured history, joining a walking tour is a great way to explore the main sites with a guide who knows their stuff.

If you don’t manage to book a walking tour , try creating one yourself by walking around and looking out for small gold plaques (Stolpersteine) on the ground.

These are placed outside houses where Jewish people who were murdered in concentration camps lived, serving as a memorial and reminder of Berlin’s past.

34. Transport yourself into history at the Panorama exhibit

While Berlin’s Pergamon Museum (Am Kupfergraben 2, 10117 Berlin) is currently closed for a 14 year renovation, its sister museum, the Panorama, remains open.

Entering the Panorama is like walking into the past: the immersive, 360° dome is painted with scenes from the festival of Dionysia in AD 129 and the accompanying soundscape makes the experience even more lifelike.

The museum also hosts a collection of 80 ancient sculptures from the Roman empire that you can browse once you’ve emerged from the Panorama.

35. Party at a bar-cum-club

If you fancy a night out that doesn’t boast a 25€ cover charge, try the venues at Lohmühleninsel , where Treptower and Kreuzberg meet.

Birgit und Bier offers pizza, Club de Visionary has views over the water and Aeden has a beautiful garden replete with mirrors and a tiny, pumping dancefloor.

These bars host a variety of day and night parties, so check the events beforehand to see what event matches your vibe – or take a chance and have a night to remember.

36. Enjoy views from the Reichstag

Berlin’s Reichstag building (Platz der Republik 1, 11011 Berlin) isn’t just a must-visit for politics nerds. While it’s cool to get up close and personal with where the German parliament sits, walking up the winding staircase of the glass dome also rewards you with a stunning panoramic view of Berlin.

Take an audio guide if you’re keen to learn more about the German political system – and be sure to book your slot in advance to avoid missing out!

37. Reflect on Jewish history at the Holocaust memorial

Visiting Berlin’s Holocaust memorial (Cora-Berliner-Straße 1, 10117 Berlin) is essential for every tourist. Made up of tall concrete blocks that tower above you as you walk through them, exploring the memorial, and its adjacent free museum, will allow you to reflect on Jewish history and Germany’s role in murdering millions of Jews.

Related Tour: In Search of Jewish Berlin (Small Group Tour)

38. Party at a city festival

If you want to combine your Berlin visit with seeing world-famous artists, grab tickets to Lollapalooza or Tempelhof Sounds , two Berlin-based festivals who have hosted the likes of Florence & the Machine, Muse and Imagine Dragons.

While Tempelhof Sounds takes place on Tempelhofer Feld in the heart of Berlin, Lollapalooza is situated in the Olympiastadion, relatively far from the city’s sites. Make sure your trip includes a couple of days to explore Berlin once you’re done with partying!

39. Visit a lake in winter

Who said lakes are just for summer? Heading to Grünewald on a crisp autumn day or as snow falls around you makes for a great day out. Hike around Schlachtensee to see golden leaves in October or visit in December to experience a frozen winter wonderland. If the ice is thick enough, people may even walk on the lakes – but take care: this may be an instance to be a spectator rather than a participant!

40. Explore Treptower Park and Plänterwald

Berlin is a green city with countless parks to choose from. If you’re hanging out in the east of Berlin, visit Treptower Park, which is situated on the Spree river, allowing you to watch the world go by on the water. Grab food or drinks from one of many kiosks and take a walk over the bridge to the park’s tiny island.

Plänterwald borders Treptower Park and has a wilder, larger forest to explore. You can also check out the Soviet War Memorial, set among a grand landscaped garden, which is the largest memorial to Soviet soldiers in Berlin.

41. Get the best view for the sunset

Watching the sunset from a former flak tower (a watch tower built during World War II) is another unique experience you can only get in Berlin.

Head to Volkspark Humboldthain (Brunnenstraße, 13357 Berlin) in the northwest of Berlin and walk up the hill to the flak tower before the sun begins setting. Make sure to bring a drink with you to enjoy as the sun goes down.

42. Check out a Christmas market

Visiting a Christmas market in Berlin as the snow falls around you makes for a picture-perfect experience. Head to RAW-Gelände, Alt-Rixdorf or Holzmarkt and grab a Glühwein (mulled wine) to keep yourself warm as you browse stalls selling traditional crafts and homemade gifts.

These markets are a great place to try traditional German food too – so save some Euros to buy a Currywurst or Käsespätzle to fuel your browsing.

43. Wander through the Botanical Gardens

If you want to find a bit of calm during your Berlin visit, head to the Botanical Gardens (Königin-Luise-Straße 6-8, 14195 Berlin) in Steglitz.

The gardens boast indoor greenhouses with a multitude of plant species along with a few acres of outdoor gardens which bloom with a varying selection of flowers throughout the year.

With just a 6€ entrance price, you’ll have some spare change to spend on a drink or ice cream from the cafe at the end of your visit.

44. Experience Vietnamese culture at the Don Xuan Centre

There aren’t many reasons for tourists to go to Lichtenberg, Berlin’s former east district, but the Don Xuan Centre (Herzbergstraße 128-139, 10365 Berlin) is definitely worth exploring.

The vast indoor market has a wide variety of Vietnamese products, as well as stalls where you can grab delicious, authentic Vietnamese food. If you don’t make it all the way out east, make sure eating Vietnamese food is on your Berlin to-do list anyway – try Hamy’s at Hermannplatz for a massive portion of noodles for under 7€.

45. Enjoy a relaxing brunch

A lazy weekend brunch is an ideal way to recover from your late night partying. Great areas packed full of restaurants include Friedrichshain, Kreuzköln (where Kreuzberg and Neuköln intersect), Prenzlauer Berg, Bergmannkiez and Schöneberg.

While some places may take reservations, many others require you to show up and wait (sometimes up to an hour) for a table. Don’t arrive hungry and you can add your name to the waiting list and wander around with a coffee until your time slot.

46. Hang out at Admiralbrücke

You may not have thought that hanging out on a bridge could be so popular – but as evening arrives on hot summer days, Berliners flock to Admiralbrücke (Admiralstraße, 10967 Berlin) in Kreuzberg to enjoy their Feierabend (how Germans refer to their post-work evenings).

Roughing it is the name of the game here: several people sit on the street while others stand and look over the canal, watching the world go by. If you want a comfier place to sit, try the grassy bank just along from the bridge and make sure to visit a Späti beforehand to pick up your choice of ice cold drink.

47. Go vintage shopping

When you’re packing for your Berlin trip, make sure to leave a bit of space in your suitcase for all the clothes you might buy during your visit.

Markets are a great place to score vintage or second-hand finds, as are the countless vintage shops you’ll come across throughout the city. Germany’s charity shop Humana also has countless outlets throughout Berlin. Try the 4-storied Humana at Frankfurter Tor to truly shop til you drop.

48. Enjoy a mouth-watering pastry

Just because you’re visiting Berlin rather than Paris, it doesn’t mean that eating the perfect pastry can’t be on your to-do list. The almond croissant at La Maison is to die for – enjoy it while walking along the canal or opt to sit in at their Hermannplatz location.

Gorillas and Albatross also boast exquisite patisserie that’ll have you convinced you’re in the city of romance after all.

49. Visit Hohenschönhausen Memorial

Learning about Berlin’s DDR history is an essential part of any trip. If you’ve made it to the Stasi Museum in Lichtenberg, try extending your time in the city’s former east and head to the Hohenschönhausen Memorial (Genslerstraße 66, 13055 Berlin), a prison where thousands of Berliners were incarcerated under the Stasi rule.

The permanent exhibition is free but for just €8 you can take a guided tour of the cells to learn more details about the history of the DDR rule in Germany.

50. Try your hand at ping pong

Ping Pong – or Tischtennis, as the Germans call it – is a classic Berlin pastime. You’ll find ping pong tables in many of the city’s parks and squares, while many bars offer table tennis nights where punters begin battling it out with a beer in hand. Try Trude Ruth und Goldammer on Mondays or Bohnengold on Wednesdays to join in the fun.

51. Enjoy vegan food all day long

If your diet is restricted, Berlin’s got you. The majority of restaurants will offer vegan options, while some cater exclusively to vegans. Head to Südblock at Kottbusser Tor for a vegan currywurst, to Like Thai in Friedrichshain for vegan Thai tapas or to Good Morning Vietnam for an all-vegan feast.

52. Enjoy great views from the U Bahn

If you’re staying in Berlin for a few days, you’re probably going to want to invest in a weekly pass for the public transport.

For a great view of the city from above, try taking the U1 or U3 line from Warschauer Straße towards Nollendorfplatz and enjoy seeing Berlin whizz by on either side.

You can also get a Berlin Hop on Hop off ticket to see the most important sites in a day.

Best Tours in Berlin

• Berlin City Tour in a Mini Hotrod : See Berlin in a new and fun way with this 2-hour tour in a hot rod.
• Berlin Walking Food Tou r : Taste the best of East Berlin during this walking tour sampling the area’s history along with a mix of tasty ethnic eats and traditional German staples.
• Third Reich Berlin Walking Tour : Experience the dramatic final days of the World War II in Hitler’s Berlin while visiting some of the most important historical sites and discovering the series of events that culminated in the final German surrender.

Where to Stay in Berlin

Historic Hotel: Hotel am Steinplatz

Opened as a luxury hotel in 1913. The hotel facade is listed as an historical monument and is famous for it’s Art Nouveau design style.

Read Hotel am Steinplatz reviews on TripAdvisor and find the best deals at Hotels.com or Booking.com

Luxury: Hotel Adlon Kempinski Berlin

Hotel Adlon Kempinski, located near Brandenburg Gate on Under den Linden, is a Berlin icon boasting the most prestigious address among the city’s five-star hotels.

Read Hotel Adlon Kempinski reviews on TripAdvisor and find the best deals at Hotels.com or Booking.com

Boutique Hotel : Max Brown Hotel Ku’damm

Max Brown Ku’Damm, at Charlottenburg’s edge, blends baroque charm with hipster flair—neon signs, vibrant hues, and bold wall prints. A standout boutique hotel in Berlin with a unique culinary twist.

Read Max Brown Hotel Ku’damm reviews on TripAdvisor and find the best deals at Hotels.com or Booking.com

Budget Hotel: The Circus Hotel

Nestled right by the hip Torstrasse, The Circus has managed to maintain its allure over time, and it’s not hard to see why. With its down-to-earth vibe, welcoming staff, and wallet-friendly prices, it continues to be a go-to choice for savvy travelers looking to explore Berlin without breaking the bank.

Read The Circus Hotel reviews on TripAdvisor and find the best deals at Hotels.com or Booking . com

Best Hostel : Grand Hostel Berlin

This hostel doesn’t just rack up awards for its top-notch customer service and spotless accommodations; it’s also smack dab in the heart of Berlin – in the lively district of Mitte.

Read Grand Hostel Berlin reviews on TripAdvisor and find the best deals at Hotels.com or Booking.com

Berlin Resources & Tips

Getting to Berlin is quite straightforward, and you’ll find some great flight from the US. Numerous major cities provide direct flights to Berlin, which serves as the starting point for a lot of tours in Germany .

Check out tools like SkyScanner or Cheapo Air for cheap flights or Going (formerly Scott’s Cheap Flights). You don’t even need to shell out any cash because Skyscanner and Cheapo Air have a free version.

Useful German Phrases:

Guten Tag (formal): Good day (formal)

Hallo: Hello (informal)

Bitte: Please

Bitteschön: You’re welcome

Dankeschön: Thank you

Danke: Thanks

Auf Wiedersehen: Goodbye ( formal )

Tschüss: Bye ( informal )

Entschuldigung: Excuse me / sorry

Kein problem: No problem

Guten Morgen: Good morning

Guten Abend: Good evening

Prost: Cheers

Wie geht’s: How are you? ( informal )

Wie heißen Sie? What is your name?

Ich heiße…: My name is….

Ich komme aus…: I come from…

Sprechen Sie Englisch? Do you speak English?

Wie viel Kostet das? How much does that cost?

Wo ist die Toilette? Where is the toilet?

Ich verstehe nicht: I don’t understand.

Ich hatte gern…: I would like to have…

Ich möchte bezahlen: I would like the check, please.

Können Sie mir helfen? Can you help me?

Deutschland ist wunderschön: Germany is a wonderful country.

Mein Deutsch ist schlect: My German is bad.

Read More About Germany

• A Perfect Day in Berlin including a Tour of the Berlin Wall
• Viking Rhine River Cruise Christmas Experience – Basel to Amsterdam  
• 15 Fantastic Things to Do in Munich  (plus full travel guide)
• Best Things to Do in Frankfurt  (1 Day Itinerary)
• 12 Fantastic Things to do in Erfurt Germany

Recommended Travel Resources

* World Nomads provides travel insurance for travelers in over 100 countries. As an affiliate, we receive a fee when you get a quote from World Nomads using this link. We do not represent World Nomads or any other travel insurance company. This is information only and not a recommendation to buy travel insurance.  

• Travel Insurance: World Nomads *.
• Transport: CheapOAir and Skyscanner (Best Sites to Research Flight Prices) 
• Best Car Rental Deals: Rentalcars.com
• Best Sites to Find Hotel Deals: Hotels.com and Booking.com
• My Favorite Hotel Review Website: TripAdvisor
• Best Tours: Viator and Get Your Guide
• How to Pack for 2 Weeks in Europe (in one suitcase)
• Cheap Flights to Europe with Condor Airlines

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Kezia Rice is a freelance travel writer for hire who has written for the likes of Vice, Stylist, Refinery29 and more. In between crafting wanderlust-inducing blog posts for travel brands, you'll find her stuffing her belongings into a rucksack and escaping on a solo adventure. She's been based in Berlin for three years and shared her local knowledge of the city with us.

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14 of the best things to do in Berlin

Jul 8, 2023 • 7 min read

Experience the best of Berlin with this guide to the top things to do © Westend61 / Getty Images

For a scene-stealing combo of glamor and grit, poised to mesmerize anyone keen to connect with vibrant culture, bold architecture, global food, intense parties and an easy-going vibe, head to Berlin .

Whether your tastes run to posh or punk, you can sate them in the German capital. Here are the best experiences Berlin has to offer.

1. See the treasures of Museum Island

Berlin’s "Louvre on the Spree", this imposing cluster of five treasure-houses is an undisputed highlight of the city’s impressive landscape. Declared a Unesco World Heritage Site in 1999, Museumsinsel showcases art and cultural history from the Stone Age to the 19th century.

Feast your eyes on antiquities at at the Pergamonmuseum  and  Altes Museum , take in 19th-century art at the Alte Nationalgalerie and lean in for close-ups of medieval and Renaissance sculptures at the Bode-Museum . The  Neues Museum  is famous as the residence of the exquisite but controversial bust of Nefertiti which has been the subject of repatriation requests from Egypt for almost a century.

Planning tip:  As part of the ambitious  Museum Island Master Plan , the Pergamonmuseum will be completely closed to visitors starting October 23, 2023. The institution is not scheduled to partially reopen until spring 2027 – with some sections of the museum, including the famous  Ishtar Gate , scheduled to stay closed until 2037.

2. Follow the legacy of the Berlin Wall

Few events in history have the power to move the entire world. If you were alive and old enough for the fall of the Berlin Wall in 1989, you will probably remember the crowds of euphoric revelers cheering and dancing at the Brandenburg Gate . Although little is left of the physical barrier, its legacy lives on in the imagination and in such places as Checkpoint Charlie , the Gedenkstätte Berliner Mauer (Berlin Wall Memorial) and the East Side Gallery  with its colorful murals.

3. Party at Berlin's world-famous clubs

Berlin’s reputation for intense and unbridled nightlife is rooted in the libertine 1920s when everyone from Marlene Dietrich to Christopher Isherwood partied like it was 1999. Since the fall of the Wall, Berlin’s club culture has put the city firmly back on the map of music-lovers everywhere .

The edgiest clubs can be found in locations like power plants, abandoned apartment buildings and other repurposed locations, especially in Kreuzberg & Neukölln and Friedrichshain . Electronic music dominates at cult favourites like ://about blank , Kater Blau and Griessmühle , while Prince Charles has made a name for itself as a hip hop mecca, fetish-focused KitKatClub is a must, and the local punks mosh away at SO36 .

Planning tip: Some of Berlin's best parties are its daytime raves: here's how to hit the clubs in the afternoon .

4. Enjoy drinks outdoors

Whether its beer gardens, rooftop bars or some casual drinks in parks and by the Landwehrkanal, Berliners take a relaxed approach to drinking and socializing outdoors. While Berlin has something to offer all year round, the city in the warm weather has a special buzz around it.

5. Be dazzled by the grandeur of Schloss Charlottenburg

An exquisite baroque palace,  Schloss Charlottenburg evokes the onetime grandeur of the Prussian royals. It is particularly special to visit in the summer when you can fold a stroll, sunbathing session or picnic in the lush palace park into a day of peeking at royal treasures.

6. Book ahead to visit the Reichstag

It’s been burned, bombed, rebuilt, buttressed by the Berlin Wall, wrapped in fabric and finally turned into the modern home of the German parliament, the Reichstag  is one of Berlin’s most iconic buildings. Designed by Paul Wallot in 1894, this is where the German parliament, the Bundestag, has been hammering out its policies since 1999.

Planning tip:  Reserve online in advance  to visit the striking glass dome  for free . This is a government building and you will need to provide identification to gain access.

7. Shop and eat at Markthalle Neun

This delightful 1891 market hall was saved by dedicated locals in 2009. Not only do local and regional producers present their wares but also, on Street-Food Thursday, they're joined by aspiring or semipro chefs, who set up their stalls to serve delicious snacks from around the world. There’s even an on-site craft brewery, Heidenpeters .

8. Tour Berlin's art scene

Art aficionados will be truly spoilt for choice in Berlin. Home to hundreds of galleries, scores of world-class collections and thousands of international artists, the city has assumed a pole position on the global artistic circuit. Its main contemporary art showcase is the Hamburger Bahnhof , a vast museum housed in a former railway station whose loft and grandeur are the perfect foil for this top-notch collection of paintings, installations, sculptures and video.

Local tip:  If you’d prefer something even more Berlin-centric, try Urban Nation in Schöneberg . A relative newcomer to Berlin’s array of galleries, this street art celebration turns the concept of a museum on its head and celebrates art in a unique way.

9. Get to know Jewish history and culture at Jüdisches Museum

Berlin’s Jüdisches Museum  presents an eye-opening and emotional journey through 2000 years of Jewish history in Germany, not just the 12 years of Nazi horror that such exhibits often focus on. Find out about Jewish cultural contributions, holiday traditions, the difficult road to emancipation, outstanding individuals like the philosopher Moses Mendelssohn and jeans inventor Levi Strauss, and the fates of ordinary people and families.

10. Wander or cycle the paths of Tiergarten

Berlin’s rulers used the grounds to hunt boar and pheasants in the rambling Tiergarten until master landscape architect Peter Lenné landscaped the grounds in the 18th century. With its sweeping lawns, shaded paths, woodsy groves, romantic corners, ponds and creeks, the Tiergarten is one of the world’s largest city parks and a wonderful retreat from the city bustle.

Planning tip:  In summer, several charming beer gardens beckon, including Café am Neuen See and the Teehaus im Englischen Garten.

11. See urban renewal at Potsdamer Platz

Despite the name, Potsdamer Platz is not actually a square but an entire city quarter, forged in the 1990s from terrain once bisected by the Berlin Wall. A collaborative effort by the world's finest architects, it is considered a showcase of urban renewal.

Planning tip:  The area itself is rather compact and quickly explored – unless you stick around to see Berlin from above from the Panoramapunkt or dive into German film history at the Museum für Film und Fernsehen .

12. Pose for a photo at the historic Brandenburg Gate

Prussian emperors, Napoleon and Hitler have marched through this neoclassical royal city gate that was once trapped east of the Berlin Wall. Since 1989 Brandenburg Gate  has gone from a symbol of division and oppression to the symbol of a united Germany. The elegantly proportioned landmark is at its most atmospheric – and photogenic – at night, when light bathes its stately columns and proud Goddess of Victory sculpture in a golden glow.

13. Go shopping along Kurfürstendamm

No trip to Berlin would be complete without a saunter along Kurfürstendamm (Ku’damm for short) in Charlottenburg . Along with its continuation, the Tauentzienstrasse, it is the city’s longest and busiest shopping strip, lined with high-street chains and designer boutiques. Don’t miss the KaDeWe , continental Europe’s biggest department store with a mind-boggling food hall, or the cutting-edge concept and flagships stores at Bikini Berlin , a revamped 1950s landmark near Zoo Station.

Local tip:  Take a moment to look up. Amid all this, the majestically ruined Gedächtniskirche (Memorial Church) stands quietly as a poignant reminder of the absurdity of war.

14. Explore the exhibits of the Topographie des Terrors

In the spot where the most feared institutions of Nazi Germany (the Gestapo headquarters, the SS central command and the Reich Security Main Office) once stood, this compelling exhibit documents the stages of terror and persecution, puts a face on the perpetrators, and details the impact these brutal institutions had on all of Europe. A second exhibit outside zeroes in on how life changed for Berlin and its people after the Nazis made it their capital.

This article was first published January 2015 and updated July 2023

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Berlin   Travel Guide

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20 Best Things to Do in Berlin, Germany

Berlin's history of battling ideologies makes for some of the most fascinating sightseeing in Europe. Explore the remnants of the Berlin Wall at the East Side Gallery , which has been transformed by colorful murals into the largest open-air

• All Things To Do

Brandenburg Gate (Brandenburger Tor) Brandenburg Gate (Brandenburger Tor) free

U.S. News Insider Tip: A nice souvenir video of the Brandenburg Gate can be captured by taking a taxi on the northbound road (Bundesstraße 2) that loops around the Brandenburg Gate. Keep your camera steady out the window, and you’ll have an impressive panoramic video. – Michael Cappetta

Inspired by the Acropolis entrance in Athens , the Brandenburger Tor (Brandenburg Gate) is one of the most-photographed sites in Berlin. Located in Pariser Platz (Paris Square), one of the city's most famous squares, the Brandenburg Gate was built for King Frederick William II starting in 1788. Designed by royal architect, Carl Gotthard Langhans, the sandstone structure stands 85 feet high.

Reichstag Building Reichstag Building free

A symbol of Germany's past, present and future, the Reichstag, or Parliament Building, is a blend of different architecture styles from the late 20th to late 21st centuries. It symbolizes the country's path from a dark past to a brighter future.

Originally constructed between 1884 and 1894, the building was destroyed by arson in 1933, an act that marked a turning point in the history of the Third Reich. It was then bombed during World War II and didn't become the seating house of government again until 1999, when the distinguishing glass dome was added. Today, a visit to the dome is popular among travelers thanks to the stunning views it provides, particularly of the Tiergarten . If you're interested in a more in-depth history lesson, heed the advice of past travelers and take advantage of the free audio guide available to visitors.

Memorial to the Murdered Jews of Europe Memorial to the Murdered Jews of Europe free

The Denkmal für die ermordeten Juden Europas  (which translates to the Memorial to the Murdered Jews of Europe or, more simply, Berlin's Holocaust Memorial) consists of a sloping, wave-like grid of 2,711 concrete pillars constructed to memorialize the 6 million Jewish victims of the Holocaust. Some of the pillars stand as tall as 15 feet.

Many visitors choose to simply walk among the gray slabs, but if you're interested in learning more about the history, you can descend to the underground visitor center, which displays information about the victims, including photographs, diaries and farewell letters. Recent travelers said they felt incredibly moved by the sheer size of the memorial (it spans more than half a square mile), and most highly recommended a visit when in Berlin. Reviewers note the memorial is within a five-minute walk of the Brandenburg Gate and across the street from Tiergarten Park , making it easy to visit all three top attractions.

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Topography of Terror Topography of Terror free

The Topography of Terror ( Topographie des Terrors ) museum sits on the site of the Gestapo and SS Police's former headquarters during World War II. By walking the grounds and touring the documentation center, travelers can learn about the atrocities committed by the German officers that once worked at this very site. In addition to the WWII history on display here, you’ll also see part of the Berlin Wall in the front of the building.

Other interesting exhibits that detail Berlin between 1933 and 1945 are found on the grounds, including excavated portions of the old building. For a more in-depth look at the museum, you can take the free English-speaking tour, which is offered Saturdays and Sundays at 3:30 p.m. (Most exhibits are listed in German and English.) You'll want to sign up at the reception desk 30 minutes before the tour starts. 

Berlin Wall Memorial Berlin Wall Memorial free

Located in the center of Berlin, the Berlin Wall Memorial stretches for a little less than a mile along what was once the border that divided the city in two. Upon arriving at the memorial, you can stop into the visitor center to watch a short film on the history of the Berlin Wall, as well as explore a handful of exhibits. Visitors will learn about the political and historical context that led to the wall’s construction, its fall and the reunification of Germany.

Once you are finished in the visitor center, head across the street to see preserved remnants of the border strip. In addition to part of the Berlin Wall itself, you will find the Chapel of Reconciliation, a rebuilt structure that serves as a place of remembrance for the lives that were lost at the wall.

East Side Gallery East Side Gallery free

The East Side Gallery refers to the longest intact section of the Berlin Wall, which stretches for nearly a mile. If you want to experience the wall for the first time, this is the place to do it. After the Berlin Wall's fall in 1989, more than one hundred international artists congregated here, painting murals that depicted the world's joyous and optimistic reactions to the end of the Cold War era. What exists today forms the world's largest open-air gallery, featuring more than 100 murals.

Despite its distance from the main tourist attractions (a little less than 5 miles), the East Side Gallery still wins high praise from past travelers, who say it’s worth the side trip to see this history up close. Recent visitors suggested going early in the day to avoid crowds.

Museumsinsel (Museum Island) Museumsinsel (Museum Island)

Museumsinsel (or Museum Island) is the name given to a group of five museums, the Baroque-style Berlin Cathedral and large gardens clustered on a tiny island in the River Spree. Built between 1823 and 1930, some museums present a different aspect of German history and art, while others spotlight global arts and antiques, such as the Egyptian Museum and Pergamon Museum .

When you visit, see if you can guess which museum hangs which art; there's the Alte Nationalgalerie (Old National Gallery), the Altes Museum (Old Museum), the Neues Museum (New Museum), the Bode-Museum and the very popular Pergamon Museum.

Tiergarten Tiergarten free

The expansive Tiergarten sprawls 519 acres from central Berlin westward and attracts visitors looking for respite from the city's clamor. The name of the park translates to "Animal Garden," and it is also known as "Berlin’s Green Lung." The land where the park sits previously served as a royal hunting ground for select Germans during the late 17th century. Nowadays, visitors can still get a glimpse of animals by visiting Zoologischer Garten (the Berlin Zoo) located within the park. You can also stroll, jog or bike through the most popular green space in Berlin. For many locals, no visit to Tiergarten is complete without stopping at its two beer gardens, in particular Café am Neuen See, which occupies a picturesque lakefront perch.   

The Tiergarten also houses the Victory Column, which was erected in 1873 to commemorate Prussia's victory in the Franco-German War. Visitors can climb to the top of this monument to enjoy great views of Berlin.

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Charlottenburg Palace (Schloss Charlottenburg) Charlottenburg Palace (Schloss Charlottenburg)

Beginning its life as a summer home for the royal family in the late 17th century, Schloss Charlottenburg became a lavish palace after Frederick the Great commissioned some 18th-century upgrades and additions. Now the complex can take more than a day to tour from top to bottom. Located 6 miles east of Berlin’s city center, this is a popular destination for tourists interested in history and architecture. 

Inside the baroque palace, you can view Frederick I and Sophie Charlotte's living quarters, the chapel and the Neuer Fluegel (New Wing) where Frederick the Great once resided. You can also venture outdoors to the Royal Gardens, the family mausoleum and even an ornate teahouse.

Berlin Cathedral Berlin Cathedral

Located in the Museum District of Mitte, the Berlin Cathedral spans more than 67,000 square feet, making it the largest Protestant church in Germany. Along with its size, the cathedral is also recognized for its beauty – it shares a similar design to Rome ’s St. Peter's Basilica . Its interior features gold accents, intricate mosaics and imperial staircase. Along with the cathedral’s dome, which is accessible to visitors via a set of 270 steps, another highlight is the marble and onyx altar. More than one million visitors stop by the Berlin Cathedral annually for worship services, tours, concerts and special events. Visitors traveling with children should review the cathedral’s event calendar to see if any kid-friendly activities, such as family concerts, align with your visit.

Recent visitors use words like “peaceful” and “iconic” to describe the cathedral. Some reviewers complained about the admission costs, but others said it’s worth the price to be able to view the stunning interior and climb the dome for outstanding views of the city.

TV Tower (Fernsehturm) TV Tower (Fernsehturm)

U.S. News Insider Tip: The TV Tower is conveniently located near the Alexanderplatz station and shopping district. Schedule some extra time to visit some of the unique local shops. During the holiday season, this area is also home to a beautiful Christmas market. – Michael Cappetta

For the ever-popular panorama of the city, the Berliner   Fernsehturm (TV Tower) is a great place to go. Originally constructed in the late 1960s to widely broadcast television signals across Germany, the TV Tower is still the tallest structure in Germany (standing at 1,207 feet), and it's guaranteed to provide quite the view. Visitors can take one of two elevators to the top. If the 40-second trip makes you hungry, stop by the rotating Sphere Restaurant or Bar 203 for some light refreshments.

Pergamon Museum Pergamon Museum

Note: The Pergamon Museum will be closed beginning in October 2023 for extensive renovations. It will reopen in spring 2027, according to the museum’s website .

The Pergamon Museum, located on Museumsinsel (Museum Island)  on the River Spree, is one of travelers' favorite museums. Recent visitors used words like "remarkable" and "jaw-dropping" to describe the museum, which was completed in 1930 and houses many works that are important to the development of ancient art and architecture. Filled with an impressive collection of Greek, Roman, East Asian and Islamic art, exhibits include pieces like the reconstructed Ishtar Gate from Babylon and the Pergamon Altar – a massive monumental Greek temple that is believed to date back to 180 B.C. Other highlights include the Market Gate of Miletus, which dates back to the second century and the Mshatta Façade, which hails from a Jordanian desert castle.

Friedrichstadt-Palast Friedrichstadt-Palast

Friedrichstadt-Palast is home to the world’s largest theater stage. The theater’s roots date back to 1867, though the building that is used today opened in 1984 after the original theater had to be demolished in 1980 for safety concerns. Since its reopening, the theater has been used for entertaining circus performances, vaudeville acts, comedy and musicals. Every February, the theater hosts film screenings as part of the Berlinale, or Berlin International Film Festival.

Recent travelers enjoyed the theater’s beauty. Travelers also added that the theater’s location is very convenient as it sits within walking distance of other major tourist attractions, such as the Brandenburg Gate and Reichstagsgebäude .

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Berlin Beer Gardens Berlin Beer Gardens

No trip to Berlin is complete without visiting a classic biergarten (beer garden). Biergartens in Berlin are popular with locals for summer afternoon and evening activities – plan ahead so you don’t end up in a long queue on a hot day.

One of the most popular beer gardens is Prater Biergarten, which is located just 2 miles north of the city center. The historic beer garden first opened in the mid-1800s. Open daily starting at noon, Prater offers a classic menu of pilsners, along with tasty grilled sausages from the region of Thuringia. Other classic snacks included baked potatoes with cheese curds and pretzels. Before visiting the biergarten, make sure to check the weather forecast: it’s only open weather permitting.

Berlin Christmas Markets Berlin Christmas Markets free

The festive Christmas markets in Berlin attract thousands of travelers each year for their unique food, shopping, beverages and holiday cheer. With dozens of Christmas markets to choose from, it is important for travelers to take the time to research which area they would like to visit, and which theme they would like to experience.

One of the most historical and romantic Christmas markets in Berlin is located at the Charlottenburg Palace . Christmas lights and decorations adorn the largest palace in Berlin to welcome visitors to a winter wonderland. Hundreds of vendors exhibit booths in the palace's plaza, where guests stroll through for holiday gifts and treats. A more classic Christmas market, which has historically opened on Nov. 21 and runs through Dec. 22, is located in the town of Spandau, which is located approximately 10 miles from Berlin’s city center and a 30-minute ride on public transit. At the Spandau Christmas markets, travelers navigate a large plaza that is decorated with Christmas lights and trees to shop hundreds of vendors from around the world. The charm of being in the middle of Spandau's town square adds to the enchantment of shopping at a classic German Christmas market. 

Berlin Story Bunker Berlin Story Bunker

The Berlin Story Bunker is an immersive museum spread across five floors that invites visitors to explore centuries of Berlin and German history. World War II and Hitler are a major focus of the museum (a recreation of Hitler’s personal study and a model of the bunker where he died by suicide in 1945 are among the displays). In fact, the 70,000-square-foot museum is housed within a concrete World War II bunker that’s connected to the Anhalter railway station. Open since 2014, the museum contains multimedia displays, large-scale photographs, short films, sculptures and other art installations.

Recent visitors said the information was well-presented and called the museum a must for history buffs. Because of its size and the amount of reading required, it’s recommended that you set aside at least three hours for your visit.

Potsdamer Platz Potsdamer Platz free

Pre-World War II, Potsdamer Platz was Berlin's main plaza – and a bustling one, at that – but the ensuing wars left it ravaged. After the Berlin Wall fell and the Cold War ended, companies like Sony and Daimler moved in and built their headquarters on the square, thus revitalizing the area.

But global companies weren't the only ones credited with rejuvenating the plaza: Attractions like the Deutsche Kinemathek, a museum dedicated to German film and TV, the Boulevard der Stars – Berlin's answer to the Hollywood Walk of Fame – and the Theater am Potsdamer Platz, the largest show stage in Berlin, also set up shop. Families will enjoy the nearby LEGOLAND Discovery Centre Berlin and a sizable mall, The Playce. Plus, with a casino and one of Berlin's largest movie theaters, the entertainment possibilities are nearly endless.

Checkpoint Charlie Checkpoint Charlie

Many say a visit to the Checkpoint Charlie border crossing should not come without a visit to the Haus am Checkpoint Charlie, or the Checkpoint Charlie Museum. Checkpoint Charlie was the most popular border crossing between East Berlin and West Berlin during the Cold War. It has also had a starring role in major films, including the James Bond franchise.

Experts and travelers say the museum gives context to what's left of the border crossing, and indeed you will find chilling stories of those who escaped from East to West via the Berlin Wall – as well as stories about those who didn't. You'll also get a thorough history of the Berlin Wall.

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Mauerpark Mauerpark free

Mauerpark is a 37-acre park that was officially opened in 1994. The park's name translates to "Wall Park:" It's located on the land in between the walls that separated East and West Berlin, formerly known as “death strip.” Don’t let that sinister name deter you; the park is now known for its "open-air culture in the middle of Berlin" and it provides a great activity space for travelers. What's more, the park has several barbeque areas, making it a perfect spot to prepare an outdoor meal during the summer.

If your visit to Berlin overlaps with a Sunday, set aside time to visit Mauerpark to peruse its flea market. It’s one of Berlin's largest second-hand shopping events, and features hundreds of vendors selling unique antiques, clothing, furniture, products and other wares. In addition to the flea market, live music, pick-up sports games and other events take place on weekends.

Olympiastadion Berlin Olympiastadion Berlin

U.S. News Insider Tip: Review the upcoming schedule of events for Olympiastadion Berlin and try to catch a Hertha BSC football match – the energy is electric! – Michael Cappetta

Olympiastadion Berlin is a large, majestic stadium in Berlin's Olympischer Platz neighborhood that has the capacity to host up to 74,000 fans. The stadium is known as the home of Hertha BSC, a popular German soccer team, and host to a variety of special events throughout the year, including Lollapalooza Berlin, an annual music festival held in September. It's also known for its dark history. The stadium originally opened in 1936 for the Summer Olympics, often referred to as the "Nazi Olympics" for the widespread Nazi propaganda on display during the games. 

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95 Fun & Unusual Things to Do in Berlin

• 8 Pinterest

Berlin is a bustling international city filled with history, art and culture from iconic museums to casual Biergartens and world-famous underground clubs.

There’s no shortage of eye-opening historical monuments that document both World War II and the Cold War split between East Germany and West Germany. The now-bohemian and alternative capital has something for everybody.

And whether you want to drift through the skies in a massive hot-air balloon, wander through the mysterious tunnels beneath the city, or pedal and sip at a mobile pub, the methods of sightseeing here are almost as cool as the attractions themselves!

Whether you’re in town for a day or a week, if you’re looking for ways to experience the best of what the eclectic capital has to offer, here are a host of fun, interactive and fascinating things to do in Berlin (some of which are still little-known among tourist circles).

So, what are you waiting for? Get started planning your trip now and you’ll have a döner in your hand before you know it!

1 – Let your hair down on a pub crawl or beer tour!

The perfect way to start any trip to Berlin and meet a few friendly faces is with a beer tour — with both low-key tastings, pub crawls and wild club-hopping parties, making up either end of the spectrum.

Ranging from authentic German pubs and Biergartens that are hundreds of years old to newer craft breweries, no two tours will be alike — but they’ll all cover an impressive number of establishments throughout this lively metropolis.

Don’t feel like walking? Then hop on a beer bike!

• beer tastings in Berlin

2 – Gaze over the city at the TV Tower

For the perfect introduction to the hip German capital, if you want a magnificent landscape view of the city, make a beeline for the iconic TV tower — known locally as Berliner Fernsehturm.

Standing tall at a whopping 368 meters (with the observation deck at about 200 meters), this German landmark wields the title of the tallest building in Germany. It allows you to scope out the city from the sky, spotting landmarks like Alexanderplatz and Museum Island from above.

For a romantic VIP experience, book a table and enjoy the 360 degrees panoramic views of the sparkling city below on an amazing dinner experience !

• TV Tower tickets

Read more about Berlin TV Tower tickets price .

3 – Go inside the dome of the Reichstag

The German Parliament Building, known to the locals simply as Reichstag, is the owner of Berlin’s postcard-favorite glass dome.

The original building was burned down in a fire in 1933, however, the rebuilt building is just as elegant, offering exciting and history-centric tours for both German and English-speaking guests.

Inside, you can climb to the top of the dome to view the city.

Hot tip: Tours are free, but they sell out fast, so book your tickets in advance!

• Reichstag tours

Read more about Reichstag Dome tickets & tours .

4 – Learn about the history of the Berlin Wall

There is little remaining of the Berlin Wall, but its impact is still felt throughout the city and beyond.

As a popular activity for history buffs, a walking tour to check the Berlin Wall includes visiting former border patrol stations at Bornholmer Straße and Checkpoint Charlie. You will also learn all about where the first East German citizens crossed the border.

Throw in stops at the original watchtower and the death strip, and you get a few hours of fascinating stories.

• Berlin Wall tours

5 – Explore the bustling Hackescher Markt

A historic square in the city center of Berlin made up of an intricate labyrinth of eight courtyards, Hackescher Markt is a must-visit for visitors looking to get their fill on some great food and drink.

Check out the street art in the Courtyard of Haus Schwarzenberg. Take a culinary journey through Viet Village and pick from the handful of restaurants, cafés and wine bars in the area.

6 – Take a pre-arranged tour of Berlin!

Don’t want to waste any time on your trip? Can’t be bothered doing any of the planning? Then take a tour of the city led by locals, to learn about the best things Berlin has to offer!

Whether you opt to scour the city by foot, bike, boat or Segway, expect to explore some of Berlins’ most historic and iconic monuments, museums and architecture.

Every tour is different, so just plan accordingly to your needs and you’re guaranteed a great time!

• city tours in Berlin

7 – Zip inside Europe’s fastest lift — Panoramapunkt

Looking for a thrill? Try zooming up inside Panoramapunkt located in the Kollhoff Tower.

By the time you realize you’re moving, you’ll already be 100 meters up above the streets below, overlooking Berlin and the pint-sized pedestrians. All that in only 20 seconds — blink and you’ll miss it.

For a lifetime memory you won’t soon forget, visit the terrace before sunset for a picture-perfect view.

• Panoramapunkt tickets

8 – Learn about the city’s dark past at the Berlin Dungeon

People who enjoy more macabre thrills will love the Berlin Dungeon, which takes visitors on a guided tour of Berlin’s dark past.

Led by knowledgeable locals, visitors will have the chance to explore over 800 years of history in the walk-through attraction that features immersive performances, sets, costumes, special effects, and plenty of impressive illusions.

With stories spanning the Black Plague to World War II and the fall of the Berlin Wall, this is one history lesson you don’t want to miss.

• Berlin Dungeon tickets

9 – Walk around Central Berlin with a Brandenburg Gate tour

For a mix of sightseeing and mild cardio, try a walking tour of central Berlin, an easy way to check off some of the hipster city’s main haunts!

As you stroll around the popular areas, you’ll walk past all the major sights, like Brandenburg Gate and Museum Island, and hear rich stories about Berlin’s topsy-turvy history.

If walking isn’t your speed, you can always zip through the city at your own pace on a scooter tour !

• walking tours in Berlin

10 – Shop ’til you drop at Alexanderplatz

Named after Tsar Alexander I, who visited the Prussian capital in 1805, Alexanderplatz has evolved over the centuries into the largest public square in Germany and a haven for shopaholics

With plenty of shops, restaurants and cafés, you can always find something to do! While cliche, you’ve got to take your photo in front of the iconic TV Tower to truly complete your trip.

Keep in mind that most locals just call it Alex.

11 – Try out some Wine Tours and Tastings

Beer often gets the top billing in this town, but the wine tours are well worth a try!

Whether you’re sipping mulled wine while sailing along a lake, strolling through some picturesque vineyards, or living it up with a limo ride and some sparkling varieties, you’ll be able to see a whole new side of the city – and get a little buzzed along the way!

If you’re visiting during the holiday season, be sure to book a combo tour that includes Christmas light viewings – it makes for a truly festive experience!

• wine tours and tastings

12 – Spend some time in Kreuzberg

Eastern Berlin holds a diverse, eccentric, multicultural neighborhood waiting to be explored. Kreuzberg is a well-known community of immigrants, minorities and progressive-minded people.

The neighborhood is filled with hole-in-the-wall cafés, art galleries, second-hand stores and snazzy bars and nightclubs.

A budget-friendly area too, Kreuzberg is the perfect place to eat, drink and dance the night away without breaking the bank.

• Kreuzberg tours

13 – Listen to some candlelight concerts

If you need a somewhat quieter alternative to the famous techno scene in town, you can always head to one of the Candlelight Concerts!

These lovely performances feature the sounds of the orchestra, and a backdrop of candles that make you feel more like you’re in your living room listening to records than out on the town.

But the music isn’t just classical compositions (though there are plenty of those); you can also hear symphonic reinterpretations of everything from Coldplay to AC/DC.

• candlelight concerts in Berlin

14 – Get to know the Alternative Berlin

On the surface, Berlin is all about history — dive a little deeper and you’ll uncover that the German capital is far more than what it seems.

Get to know Alternative Berlin on a walking tour of the city’s multicultural quarters, such as Friedrichshain, Kreuzberg and Neukölln. Visit trendy shopping areas and cafés, underground art galleries and urban farms.

Walking tours are inexpensive, with some even free (but you can also leave a tip).

• Alternative Berlin tours

Check out the best free walking tours in Berlin .

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15 – Eat your way through Markthalle Neun

When you’re craving a bite (or five), Markthalle Neun is the place to go!

This lively local market is the perfect spot to pick up fresh produce, delicious dairy, and a wide array of mouth-watering cured meats and cheeses.

If you’re not trying to round out your grocery list, you can always grab a coffee or a pastry, and wander around to people-watch.

You can also stop by Canteen Nine to try the perpetually rotating menu.

16 – Float over Berlin in the World Balloon

So long as dizzying heights don’t give you jelly legs, for a unique view of the city at 150 meters, visit the Berlin World Balloon!

High above Berlin in a gondola secured to a steel cable, you can enjoy panoramic views of the sprawling city, learning a thing or two along the way.

Don’t have time to see everything on the ground? The World Balloon floats above Brandenburg Gate, Checkpoint Charlie and the Sony Center.

• World Balloon tickets

17 – Travel back in time at the DDR Museum

One for the history buffs, don’t miss the chance to step back into authentic homes of East German DDR — Deutsche Demokratische Republik.

In these reconstructed DDR apartments, you will learn about what life was like under the communist regime.

These apartments are meant to be explored, almost acting as an interactive museum. Visitors can rummage through Karat-wall cupboards, watch the TV and even smell the spices on the spice rack.

• DDR Museum tickets

18 – Get your adrenaline pumping on a hotrod tour of Berlin

Buckle up, it’s time for a wild ride through the streets of Berlin! Experience Germany capital like never before with the Hotrod Tour.

Hop in a convertible mini hotrod and zoom past the city’s hottest spots, including the East Side Gallery, the Reichstag, the Brandenburg Gate and Alexanderplatz.

With a top speed of 50 km/h, you’ll feel the rush of go-karting through the city streets.

Ready take a break from everyday life and rev up your engine for an unforgettable adventure? So, let’s Hotrod!

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19 – Head underground at the Berlin Story Bunker

Initially built as a civilian air raid shelter during the peak of WWII, today the bunker has been transformed into a multimedia exhibition space, telling the story of Berlin.

Showcasing information-packed displays about the ride of Socialism, the Nazi party, and the lead-up and aftermath of the war, it’s a museum experience not to be missed.

20 – Take a guided tour of Mitte: The beating heart of Berlin

Mitte is the city’s cultural center, home to a number of unique museums and galleries, as well as more traditional attractions like the Brandenburg Gate and Tiergarten park.

With so much to see in the area — from busy boulevards like Unter den Linden to the Hackescher Markt square — a walking tour led by a friendly local is the best option to cram as much of the area in within a few hours.

For something a little different, consider a comedy tour, food-themed tour, or haunted ghost tour under the moonlight!

• Mitte tours

Play with the bounds of reality at the Studio of Wonders

Studio of Wonders is an art gallery like no other, with more than 30 different photosets filled with optical illusions and setups that range from the epic to the hilarious. Wander through a hall of mirrors, take a quick trip to the jungle, or cuddle up to a giant marshmallow… the choice is yours!

• See price & reviews

21 – Feel like royalty for a day at Potsdam

Once home to Prussian Kings and the German Kaiser, Potsdam is a city full to the brim of history.

Whether you join a guided tour (which includes pick up and drop off from Berlin) or explore solo, don’t miss the palaces. These include the Cecilienhof Palace, King Frederick William II’s Marble Palace, the Dutch quarter and the UNESCO-listed Sanssouci Palace and Gardens.

Potsdam is filled with exquisite architecture, so keep your camera out when you can.

• Potsdam tours

22 – See more of Berlin’s iconic places by bus

Berlin has a lot to see, and if you don’t have a lot of time, a bus tour might just be your best option!

Bus tours travel by the most iconic  tourist attractions in Berlin , such as Kurfürstendamm, KaDeWe, Lützowplatz and Checkpoint Charlie. Keep your eyes peeled and camera at the ready as you sit back, relax and cruise through the city’s best offerings.

• bus tours in Berlin

23 – Remember those who were lost at the Sachsenhausen Concentration Camp

While confronting, it’s important that we don’t forget about the tragic events of Europe in WWII.

On eye-opening tours to Sachsenhausen Concentration Camp, visitors travel by train to the site and will learn about some 200,000 people imprisoned within its fences between 1936 and 1945.

During the experience, you’ll be introduced to the barracks, cells, infirmary and laboratory while learning about the brave prisoners’ stories and their harrowing fates.

An important stop, the memorial honors those who needlessly lost their lives.

• Sachsenhausen tours

24 – Take a day trip to Sanssouci Palace

For a popular change of scenery from the German capital, travelers regularly rave about the Sanssouci palace in Potsdam.

This grandiose and enormous palace is the old summer home of the former King of Prussia, Frederick the Great, and sits just 40 minutes from Berlin by car.

The magnificent architecture and interior are spellbinding, but don’t dismiss the serenity of the luscious gardens outside either.

• Sanssouci Palace day trips

25 – Get contemporary at Urban Nation

Urban Nation is a contemporary museum for exhibitions of street art, sculptures, murals and photography.

Art-loving guests can explore over 500 square meters of the museum, filled with eccentric and unique art — yes, it’s compact, but it’s still worth a visit!

The museum also incorporates its art into neighborhoods, with plenty of outdoor murals to see after your visit to the museum.

26 – Wander around the main buildings on Museum Island

A museum lover’s paradise, Museum Island is a UNESCO World Heritage site located in the middle of the Spree River.

The tourist-favorite zone is packed with plenty of historic and cultural museums to choose from. The Alte National Galerie features art from all over the globe, including Romantic and Impressionist-era art. If you’re a history buff, make a beeline for the historical artifacts at the Pergamon Museum.

• Museum Island tours

Sip and paint in the dark at this unique workshop!

This retro-futuristic experience combines the thrill of painting with a fluorescent twist, offering a brush in one hand and a choice of drink in the other. The musical backdrop adds to the atmosphere, making it a perfect outing for friends. By the end of the night, not only will you have had an unforgettable experience, but you’ll also leave with a personal masterpiece to proudly display at home.

27 – Marvel at the jewels at Charlottenburg Palace

Visiting the Charlottenburg Palace is one of the more underrated things to do in Berlin. It’s located just 25 minutes outside of the hustle and bustle of the city.

The palace is home to Prussian crown jewels and other royal treasures. Guests can walk through the giant ballroom and feel like they’ve just been invited to a royal ball!

If you’re on a budget, access to the gardens is free, so soak up the sun all you want.

If you want to linger a little longer in this enchanted world, you can stay for dinner… with a classic concert thrown in!

Enjoy a marvelous three-course meal, with a world-class performance by the Berlin Residence Orchestra as your soundtrack.

With Bach and Mozart filling the room, and delicious food filling your belly, you’ll feel a bit like royalty yourself!

28 – Cruise down the River Spree

We already mentioned dinner cruises, however, Berlin’s River Spree also plays host to an array of private and public sightseeing tours as well as luxury catamaran adventures that often explore the nearby Müggelsee or Wannsee lakes!

Regardless of your boat tour of choice, expect a friendly, informative guide to dish out plenty of fascinating tidbits along the way.

• boat tours in Berlin

29 – Admire the art at the East Side Gallery

The East Side Gallery on the Berlin Wall is well-preserved and has over 100 paintings from artists around the world. Each painting has different colors, styles and messages that will keep you inspired for hours.

Hot tip: Be sure to check out the most famous painting on the wall by Russian painter Dmitri Vrubel.

• East Side Gallery tours

30 – Stroll around the Botanical Garden and Botanical Museum

Sitting in the heart of Berlin, this is one of Europe’s largest and most famous botanical gardens , spread over a whopping 106 acres (43 hectares) and constructed at the turn of the 20th century.

With shimmering lakes and calm ponds on site, as well as plenty of exotic plants and trees from all around the world — making up 22,000 different species in total — it’s no wonder that locals and tourists flock through its doors.

31 – Solve riddles on a scavenger hunt

Do you love mysteries and puzzles? Then an engaging, totally interactive scavenger hunt may be the perfect way for you to explore Berlin!

With numbered envelopes or via the convenience of an app, you’ll have to solve tasks and crack codes to make your way through Berlin.

In Amazing Race-style, once you solve a riddle, you’ll move on to the next location. The tour takes you through iconic locations, such as Alexanderplatz, Museum Island and Checkpoint Charlie.

• scavenger games in Berlin

32 – Take a moment to reflect at the Kaiser Wilhelm Memorial Church

The Kaiser Wilhelm Memorial Church was built in 1891 and, like much of the city, was largely destroyed in air-raids in 1945 during WWII.

The church started rebuilding in May 1959 and completed the foyer and chapel in December 1963 — and to this day has been popular with history-savvy tourists.

The scored spire on the church serves as a reminder of both Berlin’s dark past and a beacon of hope for the future.

33 – Go under the sea at Aquadom & SEA LIFE

You may not think of the ocean when pondering your Berlin adventure, but SEA LIFE is about to change that.

Offering visitors a chance to explore the big blue world, this family-friendly attraction houses over 35 basins and 5,000 creatures … so there’s plenty to sea .

Learn about creatures who live locally, in the Spree River, and far away across the globe. Let the kids enjoy the touch tanks!

• Aquadom & Sea Life tickets

34 – Set sail on a dinner cruise

If you’re looking for a more intimate way to explore Berlin by night, then why not take in the sights from aboard an evening dinner cruise?

The showstopping boat ride will transport you around the canals of historic Berlin, as your eyes feast on all this iconic city has to offer — including views of Alexanderplatz, the Reichstag Building.

After sailing by the Bundeskanzleramt, Berlin’s answer to the White House, you’ll have the chance to grab a glass of wine from the bar — before being whisked off to your table and served an exquisite three-course (or sometimes four-course!) dinner.

• dinner cruises in Berlin

35 – Learn about Germany’s past at the Deutsches Historisches Museum

Visiting Germany’s national history museum, the Deutsches Historisches Museum , is a quintessential activity for self-proclaimed history experts.

Located in the Mitte district, the intriguing museum aims to be a place of active

communication and discussion of history. Since the exhibits in the museum are always changing, you’ll have something different to talk about every time you pop in.

36 – Get artsy at the Dali Museum

A true surrealist, Salvador Dali infused his work with elements of the macabre and grotesque in order to convey a sense of beautiful disorder.

This museum is dedicated to showcasing this renowned artist’s life’s work, with more than 450 exhibits on display, including several small-scale sculptures.

While you’re welcome to stroll around at your own pace, you can also join a guided tour to go more in-depth into this must-see landmark of the Berlin art scene.

• Dali Museum tickets

37 – Roll around town on a bike tour

For when those weary legs just don’t want to walk anymore, and you want to explore the city from a different perspective (away from the hoards of tourists), book yourself on one of Berlin’s popular bicycle tours.

These fun and easy-going bike trips, led by locals, will take you through some offbeat locations in the German capital — like Friedrichshain or Kreuzberg — before finishing up back at the starting point.

With themed experiences like the Cold War, “Vibes of Berlin,” street art, and “top secret” spots, there’s a two-wheeled adventure for everyone.

• bike tours in Berlin

38 – Step back in time at the Pergamon Museum

Housed in the former Prussian Cultural Heritage Foundation palace on Museum Island, the Pergamon Museum is an international landmark and undisputed visitor magnet — arguably the most popular of the city’s museums.

Found here are monumental exhibits diving into ancient Babylonian, Greek and Roman culture — the world-famous Pergamon Altar from the Roman Period and plenty more.

Hot tip: During those busier tourist months (summer), grabbing a skip-the-line ticket online is a great option.

• Pergamon Museum

39 – Admire the flowers at the Gärten der Welt

For an unforgettable Berlin day out in nature, head to the 100-hectare Gärten der Welt in the eastern district of Marzahn.

This locally adored attraction will take you on a journey through the diverse flora of eight different countries from near and far. Whether you’re craving some tulips or are more in the mood for bamboo trees, this is one outdoor spot not to be missed.

40 – Explore the outdoorsy delights of Tempelhofer Feld

In a brilliant bit of repurposing, the city has transformed a former airfield into a splendid green space for everyone to enjoy.

Head to Tempelhofer Feld to search the trees for birds, admire some beautiful gardens, or catch the breeze and fly some kites in the wide-open spaces.

You can see plenty of fascinating civic projects in action, from public art pieces to flocks of endangered sheep grazing in the meadows.

It’s a wonderful way to relax in pure Berliner fashion!

41 – Learn about Berlin’s Jewish Heritage on a guided walking tour

If you’re interested in exploring Berlin’s rich Jewish history, then the Jewish Heritage Walk, which dives into the chapters from the 17th century to today, is an excellent opportunity to do so.

This tour takes up to four hours, taking visitors around and across key sites of interest from both pre and post-war times. These include the New Synagogue, Old Jewish Cemetery, the Rosenstrasse Memorial and the powerful “Block of Women” memorial that commemorates the 1943 women’s uprising.

The stories told are moving and the sites visited are eye-opening — a must for anyone interested in history.

• Jewish Heritage tours

42 – Hit terminal velocity with a skydive!

If you’re looking for a thrilling experience to take your travel diary up a notch, then book yourself into one of Berlin’s most exhilarating (and adrenaline-pumping) activities!

Jump from 13,000 feet over the beautiful forests, lakes and farmland of Brandenburg county, about 30 minutes outside of Berlin. Go solo or with friends and family — either way, skydiving is sure to make that list of “must do’s” before you go home.

43 – Celebrate the summer at Freiluftkino Friedrichshain

The only thing better than catching a movie is getting to enjoy a little bit of sunshine, and Freiluftkino Friedrichshain offers both in spades!

This beloved open-air cinema runs all summer long, and screens a wide variety of movies for filmgoers of all ages.

Note that the screenings are generally dubbed in German – a perfect way to start learning the language!

Post up on one of the comfortable benches, or bring a blanket and relax in the grass; then you can just sit back and enjoy the show!

44 – Snap a selfie with Brad Pitt at Madame Tussauds

Forget about Hollywood — Berlin offers celeb-obsessed visitors the chance to meet all their favorite A-listers at Madame Tussauds. It’s just down the road from the Brandenburg Gate.

Get up close with life-size replicas of international stars like Barack Obama, Justin Bieber, Leonardo DiCaprio, Marilyn Monroe and Queen Elizabeth II — just a sliver of the dozens of names on offer.

It’s a sweet way to attract some social media attention, that’s for sure.

• Madame Tussauds tickets

45 – Check out the Natural History Museum (Museum für Naturkunde)

This sprawling 19th-century building houses a plethora of well-curated exhibits for all ages — including fossils and preserved animals.

One of the essential things to do in Berlin for fans of zoology and evolution, the museum’s collections include everything — from ancient Egyptian artifacts to dinosaur skeletons that have been reconstructed into lifelike poses.

The undisputed highlight? The world’s largest dinosaur skeleton, a Brachiosaurus standing a colossal 13.27 meters tall!

46 – Soar over the city with a helicopter tour

If you’re looking for a unique way to see the capital — and are up for an adrenaline-fuelled adventure at the same time — then getting out into Berlin’s blue skies is just what the doctor ordered!

With an expert pilot manning the controls (who’ll be delighted to teach you about both the vehicle and the city), simply sit back. Enjoy the overhead views of the Victory Column, Brandenburg Gate, TV tower and so much more.

• helicopter tours in Berlin

47 – Catch a football (soccer) match at Olympiastadion Berlin

The Olympiastadion Berlin is situated in the northern part of the city, originally constructed as a venue for the 1936 Olympics, and today it still hosts major sporting events including football matches (it’s home turf to Hertha BSC Berlin).

Besides being one of Germany’s most important venues for athletics, the stadium has a fascinating history — and it’s worth a visit for the eye-catching architecture alone.

• Olympiastadion tickets

48 – Scoot around town on a Segway tour

Zip by a handful of the city’s historic sites in a fun-for-all-ages battery-powered Segway!

Whether you’re new to two wheels or a seasoned expert, all levels are catered for with this unforgettable experience!

Guided tours cover a variety of areas from Mitte to Potsdamer Platz, passing by iconic spots like the Berlin Wall, Berlin Cathedral and Museum Island along the way.

If a tour isn’t your jam, standalone rentals are also available.

• segway tours in Berlin

49 – Explore the Berlin Underworld

This is a perfect example of the “dark tourism” trend sweeping the globe. The Berlin Underworld is viewable through a collection of walking tours that take guests through some of the city’s most infamously dark and twisted locations.

Delve into Berlin’s turbulent past and explore its WWII-era history. Step inside former war bunkers, the abandoned Gesundbrunnen underground railway station and much more.

The tours are led by an expert guide, who’ll offer you a comprehensive account of Berlin’s history — and the lesser-known stories behind some of its famous sites.

50 – See a movie in style at the Astor Film Lounge

For a totally different kind of cinematic experience, head over to Astor Film Lounge !

This gorgeous space is a great place to see the newest releases, with its massive screens and elegant interior designs.

But it also screens plenty of special programs, including performances by the Metropolitan Opera and the Royal Opera House.

Whether you’re looking for a unique screening or hoping to catch the next blockbuster, this is the place to go – check all the events and activities here .

51 – Try indoor skydiving!

For all the blood-pumping thrills of a skydive without the need to actually jump out of a plane, Berlin’s indoor skydiving center is the perfect alternative.

With a specially designed wind tunnel, you’ll experience all the excitement of flight with none of the fear — simply put on your gear and step inside for an exhilarating time in complete safety!

The experience lasts just a couple of minutes, but promises to be one that’s truly memorable!

52 – Admire ancient art at the Altes Museum

Located on Museum Island, the Neoclassical Altes Museum building is one of Berlin’s most popular attractions for ancient art lovers.

The museum is home to a large and varied collection that includes everything from Egyptian artifacts to Greek, Etruscan and Roman antiquities. It offers visitors an immersive glimpse into cultures long past, while also providing food for thought about how they’ve shaped our world today.

Hot tip: Grab a ticket online to skip the line during the busier months.

• Altes Museum tickets

53 – Stuff your face on a food tour!

Who’s hungry?

There’s no better way to get a taste (literally) of Berlin than by exploring its diverse culinary offerings on one of the city’s many food tours that stroll through Mitte and/or Kreuzberg.

Whether you’re in search of traditional German fare such as meatballs or sausages (not to mention cakes!) or looking to dive into the city’s diverse international foodie scene (don’t miss the doner kebabs!) — these tours will satisfy your appetite for adventure.

• food tours in Berlin

54 – Enjoy the art at the Alte Nationalgalerie

One of the five main attractions on Museum Island, this grand art gallery is home to over 2,000 pieces of intricate paintings, sculptures and drawings.

Exhibits include masterpieces of French Impressionism, early Modernism (including works by Adolph von Menzel and Max Liebermann), and a truckload of pieces depicting the Neoclassical and Romantic movements.

• Alte Nationalgalerie tickets

55 – Class up your dinner at some Michelin-star restaurants

From the food to the decor, Berlin doesn’t skimp on its culinary scene; and while it can be hard to pick the ideal restaurants, there are some standouts that are well worth a visit!

Nibble on the tasting menu at Julius , or the simple but elegant dishes (paired with wine) at ernst.

Try some creative approaches to Israeli and European cuisine at prism, or some delicious French meals at Brasserie Lamazere .

Or go all out and enjoy a multi-course meal at Kochu Karu , where the palates range from Korean to Spanish to cheese-based.

It’s all part of the joy of eating!

56 – Visit the museum in the old train station: Hamburger Bahnhof

Dive into the country’s fascinating past at this contemporary art institution (the Museum für Gegenwart) that was once the main train station that connected Hamburg and Berlin!

This mid-19th century building is now an internationally renowned site. It houses an extensive permanent collection of modern paintings, sculptures and drawings, including well-known works by the likes of Andy Warhol and Marcel Duchamp.

• Hamburger Bahnhof tickets

57 – Meet your favorite animal at Berlin Zoo

The Berlin Zoo is an animal lover’s dream come true!

This sprawling 86-acre site houses more than 20,000 animals from nearly 1,400 species — including giant pandas, polar bears, gorillas, adorable penguins and the snowy owl (a Hedwig lookalike, for all you HP fans).

Visitors can explore the grounds at their own pace or take a guided tour to find out all about the zoo’s history (including its current conservation efforts). Get up close and personal with some of its friendly and furry inhabitants.

58 – Marvel at the works of the Bode Museum

Sitting on the northern tip of Museum Island (dishing up great views), the popular Bode Museum is home to two enormous collections, the Sculpture Collection and the Museum of Byzantine Art — complemented by smaller displays of coins and medals.

Like most of the city’s wonderful museums, skip-the-line tickets are available online and recommended.

• Bode Museum tickets

59 – Enjoy a show at the Friedrichstadt-Palast theater

Experience Berlin’s history through a kaleidoscope of colors, shapes and light at this popular show space!

The theater in Mitte is famous for its stunningly opulent interior and the countless performances that have taken place on its stage over the years, including opera and dance presentations.

The theater’s program is as versatile as it gets, with over 100 local and international artists gracing its stage every year — check the calendar to see who’s performing during your trip.

• Friedrichstadt-Palast tickets

60 – Party the night away at the best nightclubs in town

As you head out for the evening, be sure to check out some of the top clubs in the city – never an easy task to choose!

Matrix Club offers a consistent lineup of themed events and vibrant dance floors all week long, creating a perpetual party atmosphere.

Berghain is a must for techno fans and adventurers; housed in an old heating plant, it offers top-notch music, great parties, and a famously anything-goes atmosphere.

Meanwhile, Maxxim boasts everything from disco and burlesque to nostalgic dance parties and wild holiday events.

In this town, you may well be out until sunrise!

61 – Admire over 200 artworks at the Berggruen Museum

This contemporary art museum houses an extensive collection of modern and post-war paintings, sculptures and drawings. It displays an array of thought-provoking pieces by infamous artists such as Pablo Picasso, Henri Matisse, Georges Braque, Paul Klee and more!

Unlike most of the city’s museums, this one isn’t on Museum Island. Berggruen sits in the Charlottenburg district, a convenient short walk from the stunning Charlottenburg Palace.

• Berggruen Museum tickets

62 – Learn about the history of our ancestors at the Neues Museum

In Berlin’s UNESCO World Heritage Museum Island district, the Neues Museum is home to an impressive and extensive collection of antiquities from ancient Egyptian, Greek, Roman, and Etruscan civilizations.

Inside this beautifully designed building on Schlossplatz, you’ll find 9,000 fascinating and unique objects, none more appreciated than the 700,000-year-old ax head that dates back to the earliest Stone Age.

• Neues Museum tickets

63 – Grab a coffee (or beer) and people-watch at Gendarmenmarkt

Nestled in the Friedrichstadt District, this grand square is the site of many a Berlin Christmas market but is also home to some of the city’s most iconic buildings: the French and German Cathedrals and the Konzerthaus.

The famous square boasts no shortage of restaurants and cafes either, making it a wonderful spot to recharge the batteries and people watch.

64 – Learn about design at Kunstgewerbemuseum

Known in English as the Museum of Decorative Arts, the high underrated Kunstgewerbemuseum is the perfect place to explore the world of European fashion and design, with exhibits spanning centuries of history until today.

As the oldest decorative arts house in the country, it’s a worthy visit for the artistically inclined.

After checking out the two floors of exhibits, spend an hour or two exploring the nearby Tiergarten park.

• Kunstgewerbemuseum tickets

65 – Pay tribute at the Memorial to the Murdered Jews of Europe

A powerful, postmodern symbol of one of humanity’s greatest tragedies, the Memorial to the Murdered Jews of Europe is best approached with compassion and an open mind.

Carved into a field in central Berlin near the Brandenburg Gate, visitors are invited to wander through a contemplative maze made up of 2711 concrete slabs of different heights.

Deliberately abstract and complex, the monument has no goal for its visitors, no end, and no clear entry or exit — it’s deliberately lacking understanding, portraying the messaging that understanding the horrors of the Holocaust is truly impossible.

66 – Step inside the Berlin Cathedral (Berliner Dom)

An icon of Berlin’s cityscape, this grandiose cathedral has a history book full of interesting stories and anecdotes, including being severely damaged during WWII.

Be sure to check out the 7,000-pipe organ, and take some time to admire the cathedral’s impressive stained glass windows.

Hot tip: Despite the old stairs, it’s certainly worth climbing all the way up to the Dom for the excellent city views.

67 – Learn about the Cold War at Checkpoint Charlie

A Berlin landmark and one of the most iconic symbols of the Cold War, the Haus am Checkpoint Charlie Museum recounts a different side to history.

Centered on Checkpoint Charlie — once part of the escape route between West and East Germany during the Cold War — a visit will give you an insight into life behind what was then known as ‘the Iron Curtain’, diving into one of the tightest and complex border security systems of the era.

• Mauermuseum Checkpoint Charlie tickets

68 – Have a picnic in Tiergarten Park

After ticking off all the museums and filling your brain with history lessons, a breath of fresh air is well-deserved, and Berlin’s Tiergarten is the perfect place to soak up some sunshine and explore Berlin’s love affair with parks!

Sprawling across more than 200 hectares, it features a large lake, pedal-taxi rentals, plenty of green space for picnics, the Berlin Zoo, and the Soviet War Memorial.

A range of guided tours walks through the park for anyone keen to learn a little more about the area.

• Tiergarten tours

69 – Learn about the country’s former secret police at the Stasi Museum

This eye-opening museum is located just minutes from the Berlin Central Station and tells the story of what life was like in East Germany, diving into the stories of the Stasi, the frightening former East German secret police force.

The building, near the Magdalenenstraße train station, has been left largely untouched to show how it looked during its time as a Stasi headquarters – this includes artifacts and photos on the walls documenting their work over three decades.

70 – Spend the day in Treptower Park

Berlin’s Treptower Park is a vast, beautiful and well-maintained green space, covering more than 207 acres (84 hectares) of land.

For nature lovers, consider renting a pedal boat, rowboat or barbecue boat on Insel der Jugend; history buffs, don’t miss the enormous Soviet War Memorial in the park’s center.

Finally, for all of you astronomy nerds, check out the Archenhold Sternwarte Observatory, home of the world’s longest refracting telescope (perfect for nighttime stargazing).

71 – Get off the beaten track with a street art tour

A stark juxtaposition to its historic side, Berlin also boasts a wacky and wonderful side, and its street art is a perfect example of that.

In super hipster areas like Kreuzberg and Friedrichshain, you’ll find some of the most famous street murals in the country, depicting everything from pop culture icons to political statements.

Not to be missed is the iconic slice of Berlin Wall art that is the kiss between Leonid Brezhnev and Erich Honecker.

• street art tours in Berlin

72 – Climb the steps of the Victory Column (Siegessaule)

A Berlin landmark, this impressive monument is one of the few things that survived WWII intact. Located in Tiergarten park, it was built to commemorate Prussia’s victory over France and Napoleon III in 1871.

The column itself is an impressive 67 meters high, and visitors can climb the 285 steps to get a breathtaking view of Berlin from its 360-degree viewing platform.

73 – Experience a dazzling journey with the ARISE Grand Show

Immerse yourself in the vibrant spectacle of the ARISE Grand Show at the legendary Friedrichstadt-Palast. Be mesmerized as hundreds of performers take to the world’s largest stage to tell stories of love and loss through the lens of photographer and artist Cameron.

Filled with hope and happiness, each scene paints an enthralling picture. ARISE is more than just a show, it’s an experience that will leave you inspired and uplifted.

• ARISE Grand Show tickets

74 – Walk through Tränenpalast, the ‘Palace of Tears’

Offering an emotional peek into daily life during the Cold War era, Tränenpalast used to be a border crossing point between East and West Berlin. It is now a museum that documents the stories of those who once crossed.

The building is located at the Friedrichstraße train station and, while small, is a powerful reminder of the division and reunification of the city.

It’s free to visit, so why not add it to the list of things to do in Berlin?

75 – Play detective at the Spy Museum!

The Spy Museum is located near Potsdamer Platz and, as Germany’s only museum dedicated to espionage history, it offers visitors an interactive experience of the ever-intriguing world of spies.

Exhibits range from a lie detector simulation to a laser-beam obstacle course (exactly like in the movies) and interactive displays about the history of spying during the wartime (and beyond).

• Spy Museum tickets

76 – See vintage cars at Classic Remise Berlin

Heaven on earth of car lovers, this sprawling museum-meets-garage Classic Remise houses in a historic tram depot is a true gem — and free for everyone to visit.

Besides the dozens of impressive cars on display, the most noteworthy attraction is arguably the fascinating workshop area, where these vintage beauties are lovingly restored and maintained.

77 – Race against the clock in an escape room!

With both escape rooms of different themes and city-wide scavenger hunts on offer, there’s plenty to choose from for any budding detective visiting Berlin.

EXIT Berlin in Mitte offers spooky escape room themes like a prison, an old sanatorium or an underground city. Smartroom Berlin features family-friendly rooms like Alice in Wonderland or adventures in space. Escape Game Notlandung Berlin in Langwitz showcases what a real-life emergency plane landing would be like.

• escape rooms in Berlin

78 – Take the kids to Legoland Discovery Center!

A stone’s throw from  Potsdamer Platz, Legoland Discovery Center offers plenty of fun for youngsters and LEGO-loving adults alike. The giant lego-built giraffe at the entrance is a regular hit, likewise the exhibition of miniature buildings.

Hot tip: For the most affordable tourist package, combine your LEGOLAND Discovery Centre ticket with a visit to SEA LIFE, Madame Tussauds to save up to 30% (cha-ching!).

• Legoland tickets

79 – Browse the Rembrandt collection at the Gemäldegalerie

Housing an exquisite array of paintings by Rembrandt, plus those of Johannes Vermeer, Antonio Viviani, and Raphael — to name but a few — the Gemäldegalerie is a must-see for any art lover visiting Berlin.

The museum is situated a couple of minutes from Tiergarten, and while it can’t compete with blockbuster collections like those in London or Paris, for many visitors this only adds to its charm.

Be sure to opt for the audio guide and don’t forget to visit the gift shop!

80 – Explore the oddities of Illuseum Berlin

We all try new things while on vacation, but if you find yourself shrinking in size or walking on the ceiling, you just might be at Illuseum Berlin !

This fascinating space celebrates the world of illusions and human perception, with each room bursting with puzzles, optical illusions, and fun games.

Whether you’re spiraling through the Vortex Tunnel or gazing at the world through a kaleidoscope, you’ll have plenty of opportunities to explore the stranger side of life.

Get started on the fun even quicker with a skip the line pass!

81 – Peer into prison cells at the Berlin-Hohenschönhausen Memorial

A former Stasi prison, this confronting memorial is a must-see for anyone interested in learning more about the country’s complicated history.

The exhibitions are fascinating, and offer an eye-opening insight into what life was like during this dark period of German history. Meanwhile, the prison cells, interrogation rooms and exercise yards are all explorable.

82 – Explore the hip district of Prenzlauer Berg

A thoroughly gentrified area that’s become a hotspot for families and youth, the Prenzlauer Berg district is a great place to explore.

From the Berlin Wall remnants to decorated streets lined with boutiques, cafes, and bars – not forgetting plenty of green spaces for recreation – this neighborhood has something for everyone.

Insider tip: On Sundays, the biggest summer flea market in the city is found here, at Mauerpark.

• Prenzlauer Berg tours

83 – Learn about anatomy at Body Worlds

It’s like playing doctor … but in a museum!

This unique exhibition reveals the secrets of what’s happening inside your body. It’s the only place in Berlin where visitors can gain such a detailed understanding of what happens both when you’re alive … and when you’re not.

Showcasing anatomical models and actual human bodies — including brains, hearts, muscles and bones — alongside interactive displays and multimedia presentations about common diseases. It’s a learning experience unlike any other.

Warning: In case you missed it, there are real human bodies here, so don’t visit if you’re squeamish.

84 – Check out the Sony Store

Found at Potsdamer Platz, the ultra-modern Sony Center is home to a Sony Store Berlin where you can browse the latest in digital technology. The PlayStation® Game Zone, in particular, is a hit for gadget-loving gamers.

Besides all the latest whiz-bang tech at the Sony Store itself, the Center also houses a cinema, restaurants, and plenty of shops.

85 – Shop till you drop on the Kurfürstendamm Street

Germany’s answer to the Champs-Élysées or New York’s Fifth Avenue, Kurfürstendamm is known as one of the most famous streets in Berlin, home to some of the city’s finest fashion boutiques and international brands.

Stretching from Uhlandstraße all the way down to Breitscheidplatz — passing through Charlottenburg and Wilmersdorf on its way — it’s a shopping mecca for those not afraid of high-end labels.

• Kurfürstendamm tours

86 – Pay respects at the Platform 17 Memorial

Located at the Grunewald station, this memorial serves to commemorate the Jews who were deported on trains to concentration camps during the Holocaust.

A subtle yet powerful memorial, the large floor tiles are chronologically laid and display the date, the number of Jews deported and the final destination.

87 – Watch street artists perform at Mauerpark

While a former part of the Berlin Wall, Mauerpark is now a vibrant always-happening focal point for markets, concerts, and casual lazy days on the grass.

Kids flock to the swings at the Rainbow Playground, couples love to throw down a picnic rug in the Birch Grove, and tourists are often drawn to the musicians and performers in the amphitheater.

If visiting in the summer, be sure to stop at the Sunday flea market!

88 – Find the hidden gems around Potsdamer Platz

After being destroyed during the allied bombings, Potsdamer Platz has been rebuilt and revitalized. Now one of the busiest sections of Berlin, it’s home to several international flagship stores and an eclectic array of shops and restaurants.

You can see and do so much in the area with a pre-arranged tour, led by a charismatic local who’ll help you get off the beaten track and uncover all the hidden gems.

• Postdamer Platz tours

89 – Listen to the symphony at Berliner Philharmonie

Since 1882, the Berlin Philharmonic Orchestra has been one of the most revered orchestras in the world. It’s best known for its compelling and elegant sound within its magnificent home, the Berliner Philharmonie theater.

Guests from all over the world flock to hear classical German music, making it difficult to snag a ticket — so, if this is on your bucket list (especially for music aficionados), be sure to plan in advance.

90 – Max out the credit card at the Mall of Berlin!

Berlin’s most trafficked shopping center, the Mall of Berlin is home to over 300 stores — with a vibrant blend of international high-end brands alongside fast-fashion retailers like Mango and H&M.

After all that shopping works up an appetite, the Mall also boasts one of the largest food courts in Germany!

91 – Get lost in the KaDeWe department store

Officially named Kaufhaus des Westens, this department store in the heart of Berlin has been a city icon for over 100 years, with the claim to fame of being Europe’s largest department store behind Harrods in London.

The flagship KaDeWe is home to several floors with designer fashion, gourmet delights and cutting-edge electronics — and even if you’re not a big spender, it’s worth a visit for its sheer size alone.

• shopping tours in Berlin

92 – Visit the Topography of Terror museum

Of all the WWII-related things to do in Berlin, a lot of visitors will suggest that this powerful, confronting museum is one of the most moving and fascinating.

Sitting indoors and outdoors on the former site of the Gestapo and SS headquarters, the museum offers a chilling account of the infamous WWII government regime and their excesses.

It takes visitors through individual moments in history, from Hitler’s rise to power to his eventual death, and includes artifacts, documents, photographs, and films that bring this period in Germany’s past to the forefront of mind for anyone who visits.

93 – Kayak down the Spree

A popular way to see Berlin from a new angle is kayaking in the city’s famous river. The Spree or down the parallel Landwehr Canal is an exhilarating experience for those looking for something slow-paced in the fresh air.

There are plenty of informative and enjoyable tours available where you can get out on the water. You can also simply rent your own kayak and paddle around at your own pace.

94 – Cycle on the runways at Tempelhofer Park

On the site of the now-closed Berlin Tempelhof Airport (of which you can still walk or cycle along the runways), the 877-acre Tempelhofer Park is the largest-inner city open space not just citywide but worldwide.

This former airfield turned park might sound like an unusual day out, but it offers a myriad of exciting activities like easy mountain biking tracks, picnic spots, historic cemeteries, a calendar of music festivals, and bicycle hire stations — a great spot to simply chill out.

95 – Wander around Hackesche Höfe

A network of eight courtyards in the Mitte district, Hackesche Höfe has become a cosmopolitan mixture of old and new, and east and west. It’s coming alive during the sunny days with local Berliners going about their daily business.

The historic buildings are home to a range of cafes and restaurants, as well as boutiques selling everything from jewelry to souvenirs. Plus there’s a cinema in one courtyard if you’re looking for a day of entertainment and a handful of nightclubs for you party animals too.

How to get to Berlin?

While there are tons of ways to get to Berlin (train, bus, etc.), it’s also a great place to fly into and out of.

Whether you’re using Tegel Airport, Brandenburg Airport, or Schoenefeld Airport, you can arrange a shuttle transfer to get to the city quickly and happily.

For added convenience, you can also book the service to get back at the end of your trip.

Where to stay in Berlin?

There are plenty of world-class hotels to choose from in Berlin, like  The Ritz-Carlton , and Regent Berlin . On the flip side, there’s no shortage of quirky and typical Berlinesque hostels and AirBNBs too.

Whether you’re enjoying the hip, artsy Schulz Hotel Berlin Wall or the elegant amenities and nearby shopping at Hotel Adlon Kempinski , your stay will be almost as good as the trip itself.

No matter your budget or appetite for luxury, the best prices are almost always found on Booking.com, a meta-search engine that compares all of the internet’s hotel deals. Even if you don’t book through that site, it’s a wonderful way to explore the possibilities on offer and learn about the most popular suburbs and districts to stay in.

• best hotels in Berlin

Visiting Berlin on a budget?

Embark on some free walking tours to explore the city with local guides, seeing great sites and unusual haunts in equal measure. Not sure where to start? Check out our list of the best free walking tours in Berlin !

You can also purchase a Berlin WelcomeCard to see the best of the city on a budget; save money on major attractions, public transit, and more!

Where to go next?

With its lively cities and gorgeous countryside, Germany has something for everyone!

Head to Hamburg for unique neighborhoods, jaw-dropping architecture, and a lively culture ranging from street art to nightclubs. From its remarkable canals to its soaring concert halls, the city is a feast for the senses!

Or pop over to Frankfurt for historic homes, Ancient Roman forts, and fun, funky diversions ranging from hot rod tours to live music. Plus, it offers plenty of great activities for kids, from mini-golf and zoos to action-packed amusement parks.

Consider Dresden with its stunning baroque architecture and the iconic Frauenkirche, and Leipzig , once home to Johann Sebastian Bach, now boasts a lively arts scene and rich history.

And don’t miss out on Munich , where you can roam through museums, sample remarkable food and drink, and even go surfing… right in the middle of a rushing river!

Whether you want to dive into traditional German culture or explore its most contemporary forms, this dynamic Bavarian city has plenty to offer!

Lastly, just a short trip away is Wroclaw , Poland, known as the “City of a Hundred Bridges.” Its vibrant market square and whimsical gnome statues are sure to charm.

Final thoughts

Plenty of things to do in Berlin are already world-famous: the partying, the sightseeing, the eating.

But you’d be remiss if you didn’t check out its other unique features: the restaurants, the quirky neighborhoods, the public parks, and the powerful museums.

So don’t miss another moment… this fun-filled city is ready to greet you!

• BERLIN , CITY BREAK

Alternative Berlin – 14 Unusual Things to Do in Berlin

• November 5, 2023
• One Comment

If you’re looking to explore an alternative side to Berlin, you’ve come to the right. This guide covers all the weird, wonderful, and unusual things to do in Berlin, which I believe are the city’s highlights.

There’s no doubt that Berlin is a fascinating city. From its rich history and vibrant culture to its nocturnal underbelly of sex, drugs and rock and roll, it’s up there with the likes of London as one of the most exciting cities in Europe.

There are a realm of famous landmarks to visit in Berlin, which I cover in this Berlin itinerary . However, it’s the cool and quirky side of the city that gives Berlin its character.

Perhaps you’ve visited Berlin before and are looking for something a little bit different this time around. Or maybe you’re not one to follow the typical tourist trail and want to get off the beaten path.

Either way, this guide to alternative Berlin is just what you’re looking for. We are going all out urban exploring, from abandoned theme parks to street art and possibly the smallest disco in the world!

So let’s get to it. Here are some of the more unusual things to do in alternative Berlin.

Disclosure:  Some of the links in this post are affiliate links. If you purchase a product through these links, we will earn a small commission  at no extra cost to you.  And we can continue bringing you free tips and advice. If you found the content helpful and are kind enough to use our affiliates –  you are awesome, and we thank you! 

14 Alternative Things to Do in Berlin

We loved exploring the alternative side of the city. That’s not to say we didn’t enjoy the touristic side too, but it’s the off-the-beaten-path stuff that really gets our blood pumping.

Here’s what we suggest you check out when adventuring in alternative Berlin. 

1. Alternative Berlin Tour

What better way to explore Berlin like a local, than to take a guided tour with a local. Alternative Berlin Tours offers a choice of tours, all of which start later in the day after lunch.

Of course, this isn’t your average guided tour where you visit all the usual tourist spots in Berlin. Alternative Berlin Tours allow you to see the city from an alternative perspective.

You’ll get to explore gritty underground locations that even only a few locals know about. And you’ll get a full-blown history lesson from somebody who knows Berlin like the back of their hand.

I should point out that the Street Art tour will likely include a visit to Raw Gelande. So if you’ve visited there already, perhaps opt for another tour such as the Real Berlin Experience or Alternative Nightlife Tour .

2. Raw Gelände

You can take the bus or train to Warschauer Strasse Station and make the short walk to Raw Gelände.

Set in a former train repair yard, this area is an art and cultural centre. The old warehouses and buildings have been taken over and used as an outlet of creative expression for graffiti and street art artists.

There isn’t much going on in the mornings. Whereas by late afternoon, the realm of pubs, clubs, street food stalls, and flea markets burst into life.

Nonetheless, I do recommend checking this place out before it opens. It’s impossible to appreciate the artistic side of the space when everything is open and swarmed with people.  

My suggestion is to visit in the morning, and if you have the time, return one evening to enjoy the bustling nightlife.

It’s especially atmospheric come the long Summer nights, and many of the nightclubs roll on until the early hours of the morning. 

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3. Teledisko

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This leads me onto our next stop – The Teledisko . Possibly the smallest disco in the world, and certainly one of the most unique.

We stumbled upon this creation when exploring Raw Gelände. What appeared to be a telephone box on the outside was blaring music and vibrating off the floor.

The next thing we knew, two giggling girls rolled out of the door, trailed by a pool of smoke. We figured it must have been a speakeasy bar, and of course, we had to check it out.

As it turns out, it is exactly what it says on the tin. A disco in a telephone box.  So we slot a few euros into the machine and danced around like crazy women for the duration of our song.

Certainly one of the more unusual things to in Berlin, and we agreed it was money well spent for the 5-minutes of laughs it provided.

Entry: 600 HUF (Free to view outside)/Allow: 1hr

Save Money with a Berlin Card

Are you going to be visiting all of the cities top attractions and taking full advantage of the public transport network? If yes, you should consider purchasing a  Berlin Card in advance. 

4. TreeHouse on the Wall

Next on the alternative Berlin agenda, and just a 30-minute walk from Raw Gelände we have a spot that I suspect even very few Berliners know of.

The Treehouse on the Wall was erected in the 1980s by a Turkish migrant worker.

At the time, the Berlin wall was still standing; however, Osman Kalin found a loophole whereby a small area of land had been left exposed.

Naturally, this didn’t sit well with the authorities. Many believed Osman was using the house to assist Berliners in crossing over the divide.

However, despite intimidating demands to tear it down, the structure, built using only recycled scrap materials, still stands today.  

For the moment, you can’t ‘legally’ get into the house. Although, there are rumours of turning it into an official monument or a museum in the future.

For now, you can admire it only from the outside. In any case, it’s worth checking out while you’re in the area.

5. Kreuzberg

Kreuzberg is known as the hipster district of Berlin. As you can imagine, there’s plenty of cool stuff to check out here.

You won’t find any major attractions as such; however, the blend of trendy cafes, new age restaurants, and urban underground edge, makes for some pretty fun exploration opportunities.

First up, grab some lunch. Kreuzberg is home to some cool and quirky places to eat! Like Burgermeister, that’s set in a former railway public bathroom.

After that, stroll down the banks of the picturesque Landwehrkanal. Especially around the vibrant Maybachufer stretch where the banks are swarming with bars, cafes, and restaurants.

Every Tuesday and Friday is the Turkish market where you can shop for souvenirs or sample some Turkish street food. It’s also worth checking out Brammibals bakery for delectable vegan doughnuts. 

6. Hackescher Markt Hidden Alley

Berlin is a metropolis of self-expression, reflected through the endless street art that adorns the city.

Some artistic spaces, like the East Side Gallery, are loud and proud and easy to find. Others, like this hidden alley near Hackescher Markt, are a bit more tucked away.

If you didn’t know it was there, you could easily walk past this alternative hidden gem in Berlin. Which would be a pity as it’s one of the quirkiest spots in the city.

To find it, head to the Cinema Cafe on Rosenthaler Strasse where the unassuming alleyway runs alongside it. Once you get past the dark entrance to the alley, it opens up into a vibrant courtyard.

Huge murals of street art cover the walls, and there are hipster cafes with outdoor seating where you can sit and take it all in. It’s easily one of the best photo spots in all of Berlin .

That’s not all. You’ll also find the  Monster Kabinett  here – a wild museum of robotic creatures and insect-like beasts. Not for the faint-hearted!

7. Underground Berlin Tour

This was up there as one of our favourite experiences in Berlin. If you’re remotely interested in Berlin history, it’s an essential addition to your Berlin Itinerary .

The organisation is Berliner Unterwelten – A subterranean museum exploring the city’s underground history, including WWII bunkers and escape tunnels.  

I’ll be honest, it takes something unique to grip me when it comes to educational experiences and that’s what we loved about Berlin.

There are such creative and immersive ways to learn about the past that you’re instantaneously hooked.

These underground tours are a great example. You can sit in WWII bunkers, follow escape routes under the old Berlin Wall, and come face to face with the dark realities of the past.  

Several underground tours run throughout the day in a variety of languages. I’ve included a short description of each below.

We can personally recommend Tour 1. However, depending on the time of year, there may be a limited choice of tours running on the day.

We recommend you check the website for more information, although you can’t book in advance. You must book on the day of your tour at the ticket office.

Tour 1  – Dark Worlds : Experience WW2 b0mbing raids through the eyes of civilians. Travel through the twisted passages and learn about life as a Berlin civilian in WWII.

Tour 2  – From Flaktowers to Mountains of Debris : Discover the devastated ruins of a WW2 fortress. On this fascinating tour, visitors will be shown three of the seven floors of one of the biggest bunkers in the city. 

Tour 3  – Bunkers, Subways, and the Cold War : This tour follows the traces of the Cold War in the underground. Discover the modern defence shelters that were built in preparation for a possible nuclear war.

Tour M  – Under the Berlin Wall: On this tour, you’ll hear the stories of the people who tunnelled to freedom beneath the Berlin wall.  

Save Time and Book a Tour

For a more local experience, we recommend checking out the guided tours on  Get Your Guide :

8. Mauerpark

One of the things we loved most about Alternative Berlin was its neverending realm of artistic and cultural spaces.

One of those spaces is the atmospheric Mauerpark – a green open space built on what was once known as the ‘de@th strip’ of the Berlin Wall.

If you visit on a weekday, you might struggle to recognise what the fuss is all about. Other than a few pieces of street art, there’s not much going on at all.

However, the park really springs into life on the weekend, particularly through the summer months.

Alongside the famous flea market, you’ll find open mic nights, giant BBQs, live performers, street food stalls, and more. It’s a wonderful vibe!  

9. Spree Park

Once an amusement park, now abandoned and left to the forces of nature, Spreepark is a must-visit for any alternative seeking traveller.

Like most things in Berlin, the park conceals a fascinating past but I won’t go too much into that here. Long story short, the park closed down in 2002, and until recently went untouched.

There are now plans in place to revamp the whole thing into an art and cultural centre. But for now, the dilapidated rides and structures of the old park remain, allowing for quite the eerie adventure.

Unfortunately, the park is off-limits unless you go as part of a tour; however, that’s not to say that people don’t illicitly do it.

It’s a similar set-up as the abandoned water park in Vietnam, but I’m not sure the Germans bribe so easily.

If you don’t fancy being chased by guards and dogs, take the tour. You can book a guided tour of Spree Park here . 

10. Teufelsburg

Next up we have Teufelsburg – An abandoned spy station that sits atop an 80-meter hill in the Grunewald forest.

This one is quite a way out of the city centre, but if you’re down for a real offbeat urban adventure, it doesn’t get much better.  

Unsurprisingly, the derelict military structure has a remarkable history. First of all, the mound on which it’s built consists of post-WWII debris of dilapidated Berlin.

And the structure itself, once a N@zi military college, was later taken over by the U.S. National Security Agency and used as a spy station. Pretty cool, huh?  

Abandoned following the fall of the Berlin Wall, the structure is now a decaying shell adorned in some of the cities most impressive street art.

Naturally, opportunistic locals have clocked on, so now you have to pay to get inside. However, I know of plenty of visitors who simply find a gap in the fence and discover it that way.  

If you’d prefer to play it on the safe side, tours of Teufelsburg run daily. You can make a booking through the website here . 

11. Schöneberg

The thriving LGBTQ+ culture in Berlin earns the city its position as one of the most gay-friendly destinations in Europe. If not the entire world!

There aren’t many places, other than London , of course, where we’ve felt so entirely comfortable being ourselves. You come as you are in Berlin, and nobody blinks an eye.

Regardless of whether you identify as LGBTQ or not, I encourage you to check out the vibrant gay village in Schöneberg.

Not only home to an endless realm of queer bars, clubs, restaurants, and stores, but a trendy neighbourhood with a fascinating history.

Some other cool things worth checking out in Schöneberg include Urban Nation – A cool museum featuring street art. And Nature Park Schöneberger Südgelände, which I will talk about next. 

I also recommend the rainbow cake at Romeo & Rome cafe! 

12. Nature Park Schöneberger Südgelände

If you don’t fancy the long trip out of town, perhaps this deserted railway yard will tickle your fancy instead.

Fifty years ago, the park was nothing but an industrial junkyard; however, over the past five decades, it has flourished into a rich jungle forest.

Set in the vibrant Schöneberg district, this Nature Park is our favourite in Berlin.

Despite being reconstructed to include walking trails for the public, derelict remains of buildings, trains, and tracks lay buried beneath the forest.

It’s offbeat Berlin, but without doing anything too risky or illegal. And the best part, it’s only €1 to enter! 

13. KlunkerKranich Rooftop Bar

Weather permitting, I recommend checking out Klunkerkranich Rooftop Bar during your time in Berlin.

The venue is a former car park turned cultural rooftop garden. The bar provides a lush outdoor space overlooking panoramic views of Berlin.

During the Summer, this ‘happening’ venue hosts concerts, DJ programs, readings, cinema, and much more on the vast upper deck.

I do believe they have an indoor section as well, but you might want to check out the website for what’s going on throughout the year.

14. SpeakEasy Bars

Nothing screams Alternative Berlin like secret bars hidden in unsuspecting spaces.

The term ‘Speakeasy’ was derived from the prohibition days when drinking holes were illegal, so pub landlords would disguise their bars to evade the authorities.  

Nowadays, bars in cities with even a slightly retro vibe loosely throw around the term. However, in Berlin, there is still several of the authentic kind.

Bars with passwords to get in. Bars disguised in warehouses and at the back of shops. There are many Speakeasy bars in Berlin .

And they are a great way to end the day or start your night – whichever way you look at it.

15. Unique Accommodation in Berlin

In such a cool and quirky city as Berlin, it’s no surprise that there are many unique accommodations to match.

Here’s a few of the most unusual we could find – places that reflect the edgy character of the city. So if you’re yet to sort out your digs, you might want to check these out.

Hüttenpalast : This quirky hotel is located in Berlin’s trendy Kreuzkölln district. Hüttenpalast offers a unique range of accommodation including Retro-style caravans and cabins. They are all located within an indoor garden area to really give the feel of a real campsite. In love with this concept!

25 Hours Hotel Bikini : Hotel Bikini is referred to as a chic urban jungle. Animal themes, long leafy plants, and quirky features resonate throughout the property. It’s literally a wonderland for adults, and we are loving it.  

Provocateur Berlin : A small and intimate boutique hotel in Berlin boasting lavish rooms designed to set the mood. Perfect for a romantic getaway with your partner or for those looking to enjoy Berlin’s thriving sex scene.

Alternatively, you may look at staying nearby, in which case you can compare hotels in Berlin here . Or use the Map below to see all your options​:

Have Fun Exploring Alternative Berlin!

There you have it – 14 of the weird, wonderful, and unusual things to do in Berlin. I hope this list has you excited about your trip! 

Which spot are you most excited about visiting? Let us know, we love hearing from you. You can reach out to us in the comment section below.

Stay adventurous and Happy travels.

Planning a trip around Berlin? Check out our Germany series  for more travel tips and advice. 

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We’re Charlotte & Natalie, a British lesbian couple with a passion for travel and adventure.

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The 61st Theatertreffen will take place from 2 to 19 May 2024. The 10 remarkable productions from German-speaking countries selected by a

German Football Association Cup Final live in Berlin - 25. May 2024

Football fans from all over Germany are hoping their team will play in Berlin in May. Each year, the DFB Cup Final attracts thousands of

All about the European Football Championship in Berlin

European football history will be written in Berlin in 2024. Be there when 2.5 million football fans from 120 countries cheer on their team

Highlights in Berlin

1-hour boat tour in Berlin on the river Spree

Classic city tour: Discover the historical & modern Berlin

from €21.00 1hr Tour

• 1-hour boat tour on the river Spree
• Discover historical & modern Berlin highlights
• Daily tours from Friedrichstraße/Tränenpalast

Tickets & dates

Ticket: Caspar David Friedrich - Infinite Landscapes Exhibition

Temporary exhibition at the Alte Nationalgalerie

from €16.00 online tickets

• The Art and History of Caspar David Friedrich
• Exhibition with 60 paintings & 50 drawings
• open from 19.04.2024

This you'll find only in Berlin: our tips!

You definitely don´t want to miss that in Berlin! Besides the top sights, Berlin has a lot more to offer.

Berlin has been the stage for a lot of world history and not just the fall of the Berlin Wall. You can still discover the traces of history in countless places around the capital. You can also explore traces of history in the modernist housing estates , which are UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Every three years, the large, supra-regional festival of building culture, the Triennale der Moderne , focuses on Berlin's modernist architecture.

Berlin is also a proper shopping destination . Besides luxury shops along Kurfürstendamm, you will also want to check out the numerous flea markets around the capital. Go on a shopping tour of Berlin: we're certain you'll find something you'll treasure.

Be sure to visit the popular food markets in Berlin's market halls and try out street foods from all over the world. And no Berlin visit is complete without a taste of local cuisine: we have the best tips for you and your travel companions.

Berlin through the ages

Historic places in Berlin

Berlin’s history is full of highs and lows. Go on a hunt for clues and experience fascinating encounters with the past throughout the entire

Industrial heritage in Berlin

Berlin Modernism

Art in the factory hall, fashion shows in the cold store, theatre in the transformer station – all over the city, Berliners have brought

Look forward to going shopping

Shopping in Berlin

Go for a wander. Berlin’s shopping malls, shops and department stores are an inviting place to embark on an extra-special shopping trip

The historic centre of Berlin in rapid transformation

Berlin’s new cultural centre

Berlin’s historical centre is undergoing a dynamic change: new museums and major cultural projects are opening their doors.

Discover Berlin’s coolest neighbourhoods by foot

The 15-minute city

Enjoy a Berlin city break by foot with the 15-minute city concept. Explore hidden gems and hip neighbourhoods just a stroll from your hotel.

Meals for real guys

Berlin Cuisine

The food is half the experience when travelling, and Berlin cuisine won't disappoint. Enjoy a hearty meal after a long day of sightseeing.

Berlin is that sustainable!

For an environmentally conscious visit to Berlin

• Stay in certified hotels 
• Enjoy vegetarian & vegan delicacies
• Shop responsibly

Favourite tickets

Discover the greatest places to visit from other visitors! Here, you can find tickets for the sights and attractions our Berlin visitors love! 

Our travel service offers the ideal way to enjoy a stress-free holiday in Berlin, making it easy to buy tickets online for sightseeing tours, museums and exhibitions, attractions, sights and shows.

And it’s fast – so you can find the right ticket in just three minutes!   

FALLING | IN LOVE Grand Show

Tickets & Berlin Activities for Families with Children

Flashdance - The Musical

LEGOLAND® Discovery Centre Berlin: Fast Entrance Ticket

Footloose - The Musical

Tickets for hop-on hop-off & sightseeing tours

Hans Uhlmann "Experimental forming"

Tickets for Zoo, Aquarium & Tierpark in Berlin

Deutschlandmuseum

Tickets Berlin TV Tower & Restaurant Sphere

BMW Motorrad Welt: welcome home!

Berlin Museum Island: Day Ticket

Which berlin do you want to see.

Berlin: experience the German capital just the way you like. No problem with our Berlin insider tips. Whether you want to photograph Berlin's sights, visit museums, or experience events, we have the tips and information to get you there.

If you've already done the "big sights," we recommend heading out to Berlin's neighbourhoods, where there's lots of water, nature, and one or two insider tips.

Berlin also has a lot to offer for shopaholics, lovers of luxury, foodies, cyclists, and sports fans. Let yourself be inspired by our recommendations.

We also offer tips and tour suggestions for a relaxed holiday in Berlin with children.

Berlin is tolerant and open: you can be yourself here. We have also compiled tips for LGBTI* visitors including events, bars and clubs.

Whether with or without a disability, we want you to explore Berlin comfortably. Find out more at visitBerlin.de.     

Berlin for explorers

We show you those sights in Berlin everyone expects you to have seen: the TV Tower, the Reichstag, the Brandenburg Gate, and Museum Island.

The best events for every day of the year

Berlin for the adventurous

Every day, there are so many events taking place in Berlin that we can hardly count them all. But we've put together a selection of the best

More museums than rainy days

Berlin for culture fans

There are some 170 museums in Berlin, that's more museums than rainy days in a year. We help you find the right exhibition.

Get to know the real Berlin

Exploring Berlin neighbourhoods

12x Berlin: we show you largely unknown spots in the neighbourhoods of Berlin's 12 districts. Because one thing is clear: there's more to

Flea markets, malls & luxury shops

Berlin for Shopaholics

From Kurfürstendamm to flea markets in rear courtyards: in Berlin, everyone becomes addicted to shopping. We show you Berlin's endless

Only the best of Berlin for you

Berlin for Luxury Lovers

Take a break in Berlin and let yourself be spoiled: in 5-star restaurants, premium department stores, and top-class restaurants.

Food markets, restaurants & currywurst

Berlin for Foodies

Whether a trendy restaurant or a curry sausage, whether vegan or a burger, from street food markets to market halls to snack bars, we show

Tips & tours through the city

Berlin for Cyclists

Experience sightseeing from a different angle and pedal hard on your sightseeing tour through Berlin. It's a completely different

Berlin is sports central!

Berlin for Sports Fans

Cheer on Berlin teams in football, basketball and other sports. Or discover the many different trendy and recreational sports on offer here.

Tips for your family holiday

Berlin with small & big children

Berlin's range of offerings for children is huge. Whether you are bringing toddlers, schoolchildren, or teenagers, there are plenty of

The best tips for the scene

Berlin for LGBTI*

Berlin is one of the most open and tolerant cities in the world today and the gay and lesbian scene in the German capital is flourishing

A Berlin guide for all visitors

Berlin for everyone, whatever your abilities

Discover barrier-free Berlin: on land, on water, or high up over the city. Check out our tips and recommendations.

Berlin Newsletter

• Berlin news, events & trends
• Every month & for free
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Book your city break to Berlin

We want your holiday to be a memorable experience – and we support you with a range of services and exclusive deals for your trip to Berlin. Looking for the right hotel? We have a wide selection of hotels for you – from budget accommodation to 5-star luxury.

And we have inspected all the hotels – to ensure you can enjoy a perfect holiday in Berlin. Our hotel selection includes accessible, family friendly and LGBTI* hotels.

And best of all – we give you one night free in our Berlin hotels . A special deal you wouldn’t want to miss! Bahnhit Berlin gives you a fantastic rail deal for Berlin – with your train ticket and hotel included.

Our travel advisors are happy to assist you and answer all your questions.

Because:  We love Berlin and know our city like no other!   

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Berlin for a bargain price

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Useful information for your trip to Berlin

City Trips for many

Group travel to Berlin

From school and college tours to company trips or activity and fun tours by larger groups of friends – we’ll be happy to help you plan your

Everything you need to know

Travelling to Berlin

How best to get to Berlin? By train, by car or by coach? Check out our tips for travelling to the German capital.

Information on hotels, tickets and more

Berlin Tourist Infos

Get information and advice for your Berlin visit from the experts at the Berlin Tourist Information Offices dotted around the city.