The capital city of Germany is rich in history and culture.
Despite the physical damage faced in World War II and the Cold War’s psychological impact, Berlin has recreated itself into an international city.
More than 135 million tourists visit Berlin to see how it celebrates its successes while acknowledging its dark past.
Discover the top tourist attractions in this fascinating city with our list of the things to do in Berlin.
Reichstag Building
Reichstag Building is a famous government building in Berlin, Germany, where the country’s parliament meets. It is known for its stunning glass dome, which offers breathtaking views of the city.
Visitors can explore the dome, learn about Germany’s history, and see how the government works. The building also has a fascinating past, damaged during World War II and later rebuilt.
Visiting the Reichstag is a great way to understand Germany’s history and politics. Entry is free, but you need to book in advance.
Hours: 8 am to 7 pm
Duration: 1.5 to 2 hours
Location: Platz der Republik 1, 11011 Berlin, Germany. Get Directions
Brandenburg Gate
Brandenburg Gate is a historic Berlin monument known for its striking architecture and deep historical significance. Built-in the 18th century, it once marked the division between East and West Berlin but now stands as a symbol of unity. The gate is surrounded by lively streets, museums, and cafes, making it a great spot to explore.
People visit to admire its beauty, take pictures, and experience Berlin’s rich history. Anyone visiting Berlin should visit the Brandenburg Gate to witness its grandeur and importance. It is accessible at all times.
Hours: Open 24 hours
Duration: 30 minutes to 1 hour
Location: Pariser Platz, 10117 Berlin, Germany. Get Directions
Berlin TV Tower
The Berlin TV Tower is an iconic landmark in the city, known for its incredible height and 360-degree views. It has an observation deck at 203 meters and a rotating restaurant that completes a full circle every 30 minutes. The tower is a major attraction, drawing millions of visitors every year.
It was built during the Cold War and remains a symbol of Berlin’s past and progress. If you love city views, the Berlin TV Tower is a must-visit for a breathtaking experience. Buying tickets in advance helps avoid long waiting times.
Hours: 9 am to 10 pm
Duration: 1 to 1.5 hours
Location: Panoramastraße 1A, 10178 Berlin, Germany. Get Directions
East Side Gallery
The East Side Gallery is a unique open-air museum, displaying vibrant murals on a preserved section of the Berlin Wall. It stands as a tribute to peace and freedom, with over 100 artworks by international artists. The murals capture powerful moments from Berlin’s history and express messages of hope.
Walking along the gallery is a thought-provoking experience. Anyone interested in history and street art should explore the East Side Gallery to see a mix of both. It’s free to visit and open 24/7.
Hours: Open 24 hours
Duration: 1 to 1.5 hours
Location: Mühlenstraße, 10243 Berlin, Germany. Get Directions
Checkpoint Charlie
Checkpoint Charlie was the most famous border crossing between East and West Berlin during the Cold War. It was a symbol of the division between democracy and communism, where many daring escape attempts took place. Today, it is a popular tourist attraction with a replica of the original guardhouse and historical displays.
Nearby, the Checkpoint Charlie Museum showcases stories of people who risked their lives to cross the border. Anyone interested in Berlin’s Cold War history should visit Checkpoint Charlie to understand its significance. It is free to see, but the museum requires a ticket.
Hours: Open 24 hours (Museum: 9 am to 10 pm)
Duration: 30 minutes to 1 hour
Location: Friedrichstraße 43-45, 10117 Berlin, Germany. Get Directions
Pergamon Museum
Pergamon Museum is one of the most famous museums in Berlin, known for its incredible collection of ancient artifacts. It houses massive reconstructions of historical structures, including the Ishtar Gate of Babylon, the Market Gate of Miletus, and the Pergamon Altar. These exhibits transport visitors back to ancient civilizations like Mesopotamia, Greece, and Rome.
The museum is part of Museum Island, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Anyone fascinated by history and archaeology should explore the Pergamon Museum to see some of the world’s greatest ancient treasures. Tickets are required, and advance booking is recommended.
Hours: 10 am to 6 pm (Closed on Mondays)
Duration: 2 to 3 hours
Location: Am Kupfergraben 2, 10117 Berlin, Germany. Get Directions
Charlottenburg Palace
The Charlottenburg Palace is a breathtaking Baroque-style palace in Berlin, built as a summer residence for Queen Sophie Charlotte. It features richly decorated rooms, royal chambers, and a magnificent ballroom with stunning chandeliers.
Visitors can also stroll through the vast gardens, which include fountains, sculptures, and a charming lake. The palace is great for learning about Prussian history and enjoying beautiful architecture. Charlottenburg Palace is a must-see in Berlin if you love royal palaces and history. Tickets are required, and guided tours are available.
Hours: 10 am to 5.30 pm (Closed on Mondays)
Duration: 2 to 3 hours
Location: Spandauer Damm 10-22, 14059 Berlin, Germany. Get Directions
DDR Museum
The DDR Museum in Berlin is a hands-on history museum that takes visitors back to life in East Germany before reunification. Unlike traditional museums, it allows guests to touch exhibits, open drawers, and interact with everyday objects from the GDR era. A highlight is the reconstructed East German apartment, complete with furniture, newspapers, and even a working television from the time.
The museum provides an engaging and educational experience for all ages. If you want to step into the past and feel history firsthand, the DDR Museum is the perfect place to visit. Tickets are required, and advance booking is recommended.
Hours: 9 am to 9 pm
Duration: 1.5 to 2 hours
Location: Vera Britain Ufer, Karl-Liebknecht-Str. 1, 10178 Berlin, Germany. Get Directions
Berlin Zoological Garden
The Berlin Zoological Garden is Germany’s oldest and most famous zoo, home to over 20,000 animals from around the world. It features rare species like giant pandas, polar bears, and hippos, making it a favorite for families and animal lovers. The zoo has beautifully landscaped enclosures that provide a natural habitat for the animals. Visitors can also explore the large aquarium with colorful fish, sharks, and reptiles.
Anyone visiting Berlin should stop by the Berlin Zoo to see one of the most diverse animal collections in Europe. Tickets are required, and combo passes for the zoo and aquarium are available.
Hours: 9 am to 6:30 pm
Duration: 2 to 4 hours
Location: Hardenbergpl. 8, 10787 Berlin, Germany. Get Directions
Natural History Museum
The Museum of Natural History in Berlin is a must-see destination for anyone interested in dinosaurs, space, and natural science. It houses the tallest dinosaur skeleton in the world, along with a well-preserved Tyrannosaurus rex fossil.
Visitors can explore thousands of specimens from outer space, including rare gems, ancient fossils, and meteorites. The museum also has a special exhibit on the evolution of Earth and its creatures. If you are fascinated by the natural world, the Berlin Natural History Museum is a fantastic place to explore. Tickets are required, and family-friendly tours are available.
Hours: 9:30 am to 6 pm (Closed on Mondays)
Duration: 1.5 to 2.5 hours
Location: Invalidenstraße 43, 10115 Berlin, Germany. Get Directions
Altes Museum
Altes Museum is one of Berlin’s most important museums, showcasing classical antiquities from Greece and Rome. Visitors can admire ancient statues, historic weapons, and beautifully decorated vases from thousands of years ago.
The museum’s architecture, designed by Karl Friedrich Schinkel, is just as impressive as its collection. It is part of Museum Island, home to several world-class museums. For anyone fascinated by ancient art and culture, the Altes Museum is a must-visit. Tickets are required, and discounts are available for students and families.
Hours: 10 am to 6 pm (Closed on Mondays)
Duration: 1.5 to 2 hours
Location: Bodestraße 1-3, 10178 Berlin, Germany. Get Directions
Neues Museum
Neues Museum is one of Berlin’s most impressive museums, featuring collections from Ancient Egypt, prehistoric Europe, and early civilizations. Its star attraction is the bust of Queen Nefertiti, a stunning masterpiece over 3,000 years old. The museum also displays mummies, ancient tools, and beautifully preserved papyrus scrolls.
The building is an architectural masterpiece, blending original 19th-century design with modern restoration. For those who love ancient artifacts and history, the Neues Museum is a must-visit. Tickets are required, and online booking is recommended.
Hours: 10 am to 6 pm (Closed on Mondays)
Duration: 1.5 to 2 hours
Location: Bodestraße 1-3, 10178 Berlin, Germany. Get Directions
Alte Nationalgalerie
The Alte Nationalgalerie is one of Berlin’s most important art museums, displaying 19th-century paintings and sculptures. It features works by famous artists like Caspar David Friedrich, Claude Monet, and Auguste Renoir. The museum’s grand neoclassical architecture makes it look like an ancient temple, adding to its charm.
Inside, visitors can admire Romantic, Impressionist, and Neoclassical masterpieces. Anyone who loves art and history should visit the Alte Nationalgalerie to see some of the finest 19th-century artworks. Tickets are required, and guided tours are available.
Hours: 10 am to 6 pm (Closed on Mondays)
Duration: 1.5 to 2 hours
Location: Bodestraße 1-3, 10178 Berlin, Germany. Get Directions
Bode Museum
The Bode Museum in Berlin is a world-class museum displaying sculptures, Byzantine art, and one of the finest coin collections. It houses works by Michelangelo, Donatello, and other famous sculptors, covering different artistic styles from the Gothic to Baroque eras.
The museum’s Byzantine collection features religious icons, mosaics, and artifacts from the Eastern Roman Empire. The museum’s elegant design, with a large central dome, makes it a breathtaking sight. If you enjoy fine sculptures and medieval art, the Bode Museum is an excellent place to explore. Tickets are required, and discounts are available for students and families.
Hours: 10 am to 6 pm (Closed on Mondays)
Duration: 1.5 to 2 hours
Location: Am Kupfergraben 3, 10178 Berlin, Germany. Get Directions
Gemäldegalerie
Gemäldegalerie in Berlin is a paradise for art lovers, showcasing 13th to 18th-century masterpieces. It holds an impressive collection of Renaissance, Baroque, and Dutch Golden Age paintings, with works by Vermeer, Caravaggio, and Titian. The museum is designed to highlight each painting’s details, offering a peaceful and enriching experience.
Whether you enjoy religious themes, grand portraits, or mythological scenes, there is something for everyone. Anyone visiting Berlin should explore the Gemäldegalerie for its exceptional collection of European paintings. Tickets are required, and online booking is recommended.
Hours: 10 am to 6 pm (Closed on Mondays)
Duration: 1.5 to 2.5 hours
Location: Johanna und Eduard Arnhold Platz (ehem, Matthäikirchplatz, 10785 Berlin, Germany. Get Directions
Berlin Dungeon
Berlin Dungeon is an exciting attraction that takes visitors through Berlin’s dark past with live actors, thrilling rides, and special effects. It tells spine-chilling stories from medieval times to more recent history, including tales of torture, ghosts, and infamous criminals. Visitors can experience terrifying yet fun interactive shows and even a free-fall drop ride.
The eerie setting and unexpected surprises make it a unique experience. For those who love horror and history, the Berlin Dungeon is a must-visit attraction. Tickets are required, and online booking is recommended to avoid long waits.
Hours: 11 am to 6 pm
Duration: 1 to 1.5 hours
Location: Spandauer Str. 2, 10178 Berlin, Germany. Get Directions
Sachsenhausen Concentration Camp
Sachsenhausen Memorial is a deeply moving historical site near Berlin, serving as a memorial to the victims of the Nazi regime. Built in 1936, it was one of the first concentration camps in Germany, where thousands of prisoners suffered under harsh conditions.
Today, visitors can explore the camp’s barracks, watchtowers, and museum exhibits that tell the stories of those who lived and died there. Guided tours provide deeper insights into its tragic past. For those wanting to understand Berlin’s history beyond its landmarks, a visit to Sachsenhausen is essential. Entry is free, but donations are encouraged to support the memorial.
Hours: 8:30 am to 6 pm (March–October), 8:30 am to 4:30 pm (November–February)
Duration: 2 to 3 hours
Location: Tucholskystraße 12, 10117 Berlin, Germany. Get Directions
Tempelhofer Feld
Tempelhofer Feld is a massive open space in Berlin, once an airport and now a public park. The former runways are perfect for biking, skating, and jogging, while large green areas provide space for picnics, barbecues, and outdoor activities.
Visitors can explore old airport buildings, community gardens, and bird-watching spots. The park symbolizes Berlin’s transformation, blending history with recreation. For anyone looking to relax, exercise, or enjoy nature, Tempelhofer Feld is a fantastic place to visit. Entry is free, and the park is open year-round.
Hours: 6 am to 10:30 pm
Duration: 1 to 3 hours
Location: Tempelhofer Damm, 12101 Berlin, Germany. Get Directions
Hamburger Bahnhof
Hamburger Bahnhof in Berlin is a unique art museum in Berlin, housed in a historic train station. It focuses on modern and contemporary art, featuring iconic works by Warhol, Beuys, and Cy Twombly. The museum’s vast space allows for large-scale installations, immersive exhibits, and experimental artworks. The mix of industrial architecture and cutting-edge art creates a special atmosphere.
If you’re interested in bold, thought-provoking art, the Hamburger Bahnhof is the perfect place to explore. Tickets are required, and an audio guide is available.
Hours: 10 am to 6 pm (Closed on Mondays)
Duration: 1.5 to 2.5 hours
Location: Invalidenstraße 50, 10557 Berlin, Germany. Get Directions
Panoramapunkt Berlin
Panoramapunkt Berlin is one of the best places to enjoy breathtaking views of the city from above. Located on the Kollhoff Tower at Potsdamer Platz, it features one of Europe’s fastest elevators, taking visitors up to the 25th floor in just 20 seconds.
The observation deck shows famous landmarks like the Brandenburg Gate, Berlin TV Tower, and Reichstag. There is also an exhibition on the history of Potsdamer Platz and a cozy café with skyline views. For an unforgettable panoramic experience, Panoramapunkt is a must-visit. Tickets are required, and booking in advance is recommended.
Hours: 10 am to 7 pm
Duration: 30 minutes to 1 hour
Location: Potsdamer Platz, Berlin, Germany. Get Directions
Soviet War Memorial
The Soviet War Memorial in Berlin is an important World War II monument, built in 1945 to honor the 80,000 Soviet soldiers who died in the Battle of Berlin. The memorial includes a large bronze statue of a Soviet soldier, flanked by two T-34 tanks and artillery guns from the war.
It is one of Berlin’s most significant reminders of the city’s wartime history. The site is peaceful, offering a place for reflection. For history lovers and those wanting to understand Berlin’s past, visiting the Soviet War Memorial is essential. It is open 24/7 and free to visit.
Hours: Open 24 hours
Duration: 30 minutes to 1 hour
Location: Str. des 17. Juni 4, 10557 Berlin, Germany. Get Directions
Neue Nationalgalerie
The Neue Nationalgalerie (New National Gallery) is Berlin’s most important museum for modern and abstract art, featuring works by Pablo Picasso, Paul Klee, and Max Beckmann. It is known for its sleek modernist design, created by Mies van der Rohe, with large glass walls offering natural light.
The collection spans various artistic movements, from Surrealism to Abstract Expressionism, making it a cultural highlight. The museum also features outdoor sculptures and rotating contemporary exhibitions. For a deep dive into 20th-century art, the Neue Nationalgalerie is a must-visit. Tickets are required, and guided tours enhance the experience.
Hours: 10 am to 6 pm (Closed on Mondays)
Duration: 1.5 to 2.5 hours
Location: Potsdamer Str. 50, 10785 Berlin, Germany. Get Directions
Madame Tussauds Berlin
Madame Tussauds Berlin is an exciting attraction where visitors can meet realistic wax figures of famous personalities from history, entertainment, and sports. The museum includes sections dedicated to Hollywood stars, world leaders, and music legends like Taylor Swift, Barack Obama, and Michael Jackson.
Special interactive exhibits allow visitors to take selfies with the stars, sit in the Oval Office, or dance with pop icons. The museum also has a section on Berlin’s political and cultural history. This is the place to be if you want a fun-filled experience with great photo opportunities. Tickets are required, and discounts are available for early bookings.
Hours: 10 am to 6 pm
Duration: 1 to 1.5 hours
Location: Unter den Linden, Berlin, Germany. Get Directions
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Illuseum Berlin
Illuseum Berlin is a fascinating world of optical illusions and brain-teasing exhibits, designed to challenge your perception of reality. Visitors can enter a tilted room where objects appear to float, explore mind-tricking mirror mazes, or experience holographic illusions.
The exhibits are interactive, making it a fun learning experience for kids and adults. Every corner of the museum is filled with surprises and great photo opportunities. For an exciting and mind-boggling visit, the Illuseum Berlin should be on your list. Tickets are required, and early booking is recommended.
Hours: 10 am to 8 pm
Duration: 1 to 1.5 hours
Location: Karl-Liebknecht-Str., Berlin, Germany. Get Directions
Legoland Discovery Centre
Legoland Discovery Centre Berlin is an exciting indoor attraction where kids and families can explore a world built entirely of LEGO. It features interactive exhibits, fun LEGO-themed rides, a 4D cinema, and a Miniature Berlin made of LEGO bricks.
Children can get creative in the LEGO build zones, race their own LEGO cars, and meet life-sized LEGO characters. The center is perfect for families looking for a fun and educational experience. For young builders and LEGO fans, the LEGOLAND Discovery Centre is a must-visit in Berlin. Tickets are required, and online booking is recommended.
Hours: 10 am to 6 pm
Duration: 1.5 to 3 hours
Location: Potsdamer Platz, Berlin, Germany. Get Directions
Berlin Icebar
Berlin Icebar is a unique bar experience where everything—from the walls to the glasses—is made of ice. Visitors receive a thermal jacket and gloves before stepping into the frozen wonderland, where the temperature stays at -10°C (14°F).
The bar features intricately carved ice sculptures and a cool atmosphere, making it a fun and memorable visit. Each ticket includes three drinks, served in ice glasses. For an exciting and chilly adventure, the Berlin Icebar is a must-visit. Tickets are required, and booking in advance is recommended.
Hours: 1 pm to 10 pm (Sunday–Thursday), 1 pm to 11:30 pm (Friday & Saturday)
Duration: 1 to 1.5 hours
Location: Spandauer Straße, Berlin, Germany. Get Directions
The Wall – Asisi Panorama
The Wall – Asisi Panorama is a unique exhibition in Berlin that offers a 360-degree artistic recreation of life on both sides of the Berlin Wall. Created by artist Yadegar Asisi, the immersive installation transports visitors to a day in the 1980s, showing the stark reality of a divided Berlin. The detailed panorama, combined with sound effects and lighting, creates a powerful atmosphere.
The exhibition also includes photographs and personal stories from people who lived through the era. For those wanting to experience the impact of the Berlin Wall, Asisi Panorama is a must-visit. Tickets are required, and online booking is recommended.
Hours: 10 am to 6 pm
Duration: 45 minutes to 1 hour
Location: Friedrichstraße, Berlin, Germany. Get Directions
World Balloon with Perfect View
World Balloon with Perfect View is one of Berlin’s most thrilling attractions, offering a panoramic view of the city from 150 meters high. This giant helium balloon takes visitors on a gentle ascent, providing stunning aerial views of Berlin landmarks like the Brandenburg Gate, Reichstag, and TV Tower. The experience is smooth and safe, making it perfect for families, couples, and photography lovers.
The balloon ride lasts about 15 minutes, allowing plenty of time to take breathtaking photos. The World Balloon is a must-visit for an unforgettable bird’s-eye view of Berlin. Tickets are required, and booking in advance is recommended.
Hours: 10 am to 8 pm (weather permitting)
Duration: 15 minutes
Location: Zimmerstraße, Berlin, Germany. Get Directions
Computer Games Museum
Computer Games Museum in Berlin is an interactive museum dedicated to the world of video games from the 1970s to today. Visitors can explore over 300 exhibits, including vintage gaming consoles, rare prototypes, and iconic game characters.
The museum has hands-on sections where you can play classic arcade games like Pac-Man and Donkey Kong, as well as modern VR experiences. The exhibits also explore the impact of gaming on society and technology. This museum is a must-see for a nostalgic and fun-filled journey through gaming history. Tickets are required, and advance booking is advised.
Hours: 10 am to 8 pm
Duration: 1.5 to 2 hours
Location: Karl-Marx-Allee, Berlin, Germany. Get Directions
Berggruen Museum
The Berggruen Museum in Berlin is a world-class museum dedicated to modern art, featuring masterpieces by Pablo Picasso, Paul Klee, Henri Matisse, and Alberto Giacometti. The collection, assembled by art dealer Heinz Berggruen, showcases over 100 works by Picasso, spanning different phases of his artistic career.
Visitors can also admire abstract paintings, sculptures, and sketches from some of the greatest modern artists. The museum’s elegant setting provides a peaceful and intimate art experience. For lovers of modern and contemporary art, the Berggruen Museum is a must-visit. Tickets are required, and guided tours are available.
Hours: 10 am to 6 pm (Closed on Mondays)
Duration: 1.5 to 2 hours
Location: Schlossstraße, Berlin, Germany. Get Directions
German Spy Museum
The German Spy Museum is an exciting and interactive museum that takes visitors through the history of espionage, from ancient spies to modern intelligence agencies. It features an original Enigma machine, famous for its role in WWII codebreaking and other fascinating spy gadgets.
Visitors can also navigate a laser maze, try their hand at cipher-breaking, and discover the art of deception used by real-life spies. The museum provides a thrilling mix of history, technology, and adventure. This museum is a must-visit for anyone who has ever dreamed of being a secret agent. Tickets are required, and it’s best to book in advance.
Hours: 10 am to 8 pm
Duration: 1.5 to 2 hours
Location: Leipziger Platz, Berlin, Germany. Get Directions
Museum of Photography
Museum of Photography in Berlin is a must-visit for lovers of visual storytelling, historical photography, and art. It is best known for its extensive collection of works by Helmut Newton, one of the world’s most famous fashion photographers. The museum also features exhibitions on the history of photography, including early cameras, photojournalism, and artistic photography.
The beautifully curated galleries offer a deep dive into the medium’s evolution. This museum is a must-see for anyone passionate about photography and visual arts. Tickets are required, and guided tours are available.
Hours: 11 am to 7 pm (Closed on Mondays)
Duration: 1.5 to 2 hours
Location: Jebensstraße, Berlin, Germany. Get Directions
Body Worlds Berlin
Body Worlds Berlin is a fascinating exhibition that uniquely looks at the human body’s anatomy, health, and function. It showcases real, preserved human specimens using a technique called plastination, developed by Dr. Gunther von Hagens.
Visitors can explore the muscular, skeletal, and nervous systems, gaining insight into how the body works. The exhibition also highlights the effects of lifestyle choices on health, making it both educational and eye-opening. Body Worlds Berlin is a must-visit for those interested in science, medicine, or anatomy. Tickets are required, and online booking is recommended.
Hours: 10 am to 7 pm
Duration: 1 to 1.5 hours
Location: Panoramastraße 1A, 10178 Berlin, Germany. Get Directions
Berlin Story Bunker
Berlin Story Bunker is a fascinating museum inside a historic WWII air-raid bunker, offering a deep dive into Berlin’s history and the rise and fall of Nazi Germany. One of the highlights is the Hitler – How Could It Happen? exhibition, which explores the events that led to WWII and the Holocaust.
Visitors can see rare photographs, documents, and a detailed model of Hitler’s bunker. The experience is intense but highly informative. For those wanting to understand Berlin’s complex past, the Berlin Story Bunker is a must-visit. Tickets are required, and an audio guide is available.
Hours: 10 am to 7 pm
Duration: 1.5 to 2 hours
Location: Schöneberger Straße, Berlin, Germany. Get Directions
