Berlin is a high-spirited city with a rich history and dynamic culture that draws over 12 million tourists annually, making it one of Europe’s most popular destinations. The city boasts an impressive range of attractions, from the historic Brandenburg Gate and the touching Holocaust Memorial to the lively East Side Gallery and the grand Reichstag Building. Berlin offers something for every traveler with its combination of historic landmarks, cutting-edge art scenes, and expansive green spaces. The city’s diverse experiences, including its renowned museums and world-class entertainment venues, make Berlin a must-visit destination for those seeking an unforgettable experience. Here are the 12 things to see in Berlin if you ever visit it.
List of 12 Things to Do in Berlin
- Brandenburg Gate
- Berlin Wall Memorial
- Museum Island
- Reichstag Building
- East Side Gallery
- Pergamon Museum
- Holocaust Memorial
- Topography of Terror
- Reichstag Building
- Friedrichstadt Palast
- Zoo Berlin
- Tiergarten
1. Brandenburg Gate
For anybody traveling to Berlin for the first time, a must-see monument is the Brandenburg Gate. Constructed between 1788 and 1791, this recognizable neoclassical structure is the center of Berlin’s culture and history. With the fall of the Berlin Wall in 1989, the Brandenburg Gate which was once a symbol of peace, became a potent symbol of unification.
This imposing building, which is 65 meters broad and 26 meters high, has 12 Doric columns supporting it, and the iconic Quadriga, a chariot pulled by four horses, is perched atop them. Situated in Pariser Platz, the gate was created by architect Carl Gotthard Langhans and serves as a pivotal site for touring Berlin.
In 2023, over 12 million tourists visited the Brandenburg Gate, highlighting its status as one of Berlin’s top attractions. Visitors can enjoy its historical significance, take a stroll around Pariser Platz, and capture stunning photographs of this monumental gateway. Be sure to visit at different times of the day to experience its changing ambiance, especially during the evening when the gate is beautifully illuminated.
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2. Berlin Wall Memorial
The Berlin Wall Memorial is a dramatic site that gives a deep dive into the history of the Berlin Wall and its influence on the city. This 1.4-kilometer memorial, which is situated along Bernauer Strasse, offers visitors a moving experience.
A preserved “death strip” and an original section of the Berlin Wall are on display at the memorial, providing visitors with a clear understanding of how the Wall separated East and West Berlin. Anyone interested in learning about Berlin’s Cold War history should stop by the Visitor Center, which features firsthand accounts from individuals who experienced this tumultuous period along with exhibits.
Each year, the Berlin Wall Memorial attracts over 2 million visitors, reflecting its importance as a historical and educational site. The best time to visit is during the daytime when you can fully explore the outdoor sections and view the detailed displays. The memorial is open year-round, with special events and guided tours available to enhance your visit. Walking through the Berlin Wall Memorial provides a sobering but important glimpse into a pivotal period in Berlin’s history.
3. Museum Island
Situated in the center of Berlin, Museum Island is a cultural treasure trove and a UNESCO World Heritage site. This unusual complex, situated on an island on the River Spree, houses five of Berlin’s most prominent museums: the Altes Museum, Neues Museum, Alte Nationalgalerie, Bode Museum, and Pergamon Museum.
Together, these museums house an enormous collection of objects and artwork, ranging from classical sculptures and 19th-century masterpieces to items from ancient Egypt. Highlights include the stunning Pergamon Altar at the Pergamon Museum and the well-known Nefertiti bust at the Neues Museum.
Each year, Museum Island attracts around 3 million visitors, making it a central hub for art and history enthusiasts. The island is open to the public throughout the year, with the museums often hosting temporary exhibitions and special events. Visiting Museum Island offers an unparalleled opportunity to immerse yourself in centuries of art and culture in one picturesque location.
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4. Reichstag Building
For anybody visiting Berlin, the Reichstag Building is a must-see monument. The German Bundestag is housed in this ancient building, which was first finished in 1894 (parliament). The structure is well known for its striking architecture, which blends traditional and modern design features.
Its glass dome, created by architect Norman Foster and built during a significant refurbishment in the 1990s, is one of its most outstanding features. This dome represents openness in governance and provides sweeping views of Berlin. Inside the dome, guests can ascend the spiral stairway to take in a 360-degree panorama of the city.
The Reichstag Building has been a central figure in Germany’s history, witnessing events from the Weimar Republic to the fall of the Berlin Wall. In 2023, it welcomed over 1.5 million tourists, highlighting its significance as a major attraction.
It’s free to visit the Reichstag Building, but it’s essential to book a time slot in advance for security reasons. Open year-round, the building also features exhibitions on German history and politics, providing a comprehensive insight into the nation’s past and present.
5. East Side Gallery
Stretching 1.3 kilometers along the Berlin Wall, the East Side Gallery is a colorful outdoor gallery. This open-air display serves as a dynamic canvas for artists from all over the world besides being an important historical location.
This remaining section of the Berlin Wall was covered in murals by artists following its collapse in 1989, which turned it into a representation of unification and freedom. Currently on display at the East Side Gallery are more than 100 colorful murals, each of which presents a different angle on themes of transformation, peace, and harmony. Dmitri Vrubel’s “My God, Help Me to Survive This Deadly Love,” which portrays a passionate kiss between Erich Honecker and Leonid Brezhnev, is one of the most well-known pieces.
The gallery attracts around 3 million visitors each year, making it one of Berlin’s top attractions. It’s open daily and free to the public, allowing visitors to stroll along the wall and appreciate the powerful messages conveyed through the art. The East Side Gallery is not just a historical landmark but a living, evolving piece of Berlin’s cultural landscape.
6. Pergamon Museum
One of Berlin’s most well-known and striking museums is the Pergamon Museum, which is situated on Museum Island. It is home to a remarkable array of historical pieces and works of art from different eras. The museum, which was finished in 1930, is renowned for its enormous architectural reconstructions and vast contents.
The Pergamon Altar, an exquisite Greek work of art known for its elaborate frieze portraying the conflict between giants and gods, is one of the centerpieces of the Pergamon Museum. The Ishtar Gate of Babylon, a magnificently restored gate with vivid blue-glazed bricks and golden reliefs depicting legendary creatures, is another must-see.
In 2023, the Pergamon Museum attracted over 1 million visitors, solidifying its status as a must-see destination for history enthusiasts and art lovers. The museum is open year-round, and booking is recommended to avoid long lines. Visiting the Pergamon Museum offers a chance to marvel at some of the world’s most significant ancient artifacts and explore the rich history of past civilizations through its grand and detailed exhibits.
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7. Holocaust Memorial
Situated in the center of Berlin, the Holocaust Memorial, officially named the Memorial to the Murdered Jews of Europe, is an incredibly moving monument. The memorial, which was created by architect Peter Eisenman and unveiled in 2005, is made up of 2,711 grid-patterned concrete slabs. The building resembles a maze, with the varied heights of the slabs creating the impression of undulating waves that can trigger different feelings in visitors.
This sad place for contemplation and mourning is devoted to the Jewish victims of the Holocaust and is a stark and moving memorial. Also, there is an underground information center on the property that features exhibits relating to the history of the Holocaust, individual accounts, and its effects on Jewish communities.
Each year, the Holocaust Memorial attracts over 6 million visitors, making it one of Berlin’s most visited sites. The memorial is open daily, and entry is free, though the information center may have a nominal fee. Visiting the Holocaust Memorial provides a sad and educational experience, reminding us of the atrocities of the past and the importance of remembering and honoring those who suffered.
8. Topography of Terror
An important museum and documentation center in Berlin that offers a thorough insight into the dark past of the Nazi regime is called The Topography of Terror. Situated on the location of the former Gestapo and SS headquarters, this museum provides an in-depth examination of the terror perpetrated by these groups during World War II.
The museum was established in 2010 and has a wide range of displays, such as images, records, and first-hand accounts. The inner workings of the Nazi security system and its part in arranging widespread brutality and persecution are demonstrated by these materials. The original sections of the Berlin Wall and the old building foundations are on display in the museum’s outdoor exhibition area.
Each year, the Topography of Terror attracts approximately 1.5 million visitors. The museum is open daily, with free admission, though special exhibitions and events may have separate charges. Visiting this site offers a sobering but crucial understanding of the mechanisms of oppression and the importance of remembering history to prevent such atrocities in the future.
9. Reichstag Building
A famous landmark representing Germany’s political past and innovative architecture is the Reichstag Building. The German Bundestag (parliament) is housed in this ancient structure in Berlin. After it was finished in 1894, it has seen several important occasions, such as the founding of the Weimar Republic and the collapse of the Berlin Wall.
The Reichstag’s modern glass dome, created by architect Norman Foster during the renovations that followed Germany’s reunification, is one of its most remarkable features. The dome represents openness in government while offering visitors a comprehensive perspective of Berlin. The dome’s spiral promenade provides a singular viewpoint of the city and the legislative process.
The Reichstag Building is open to the public throughout the year, but visitors need to book a time slot in advance for security reasons. It attracts around 1.5 million visitors annually, reflecting its status as a key attraction in Berlin. Exploring this building allows you to connect with Germany’s past while enjoying the contemporary architectural marvel of its dome.
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10. Friedrichstadt Palast
Berlin’s Friedrichstadt Palast is a stunning entertainment facility known for its expansive stage and jaw-dropping acts. Since its completion in 1984, Berlin’s historic theater, situated in the Mitte neighborhood, has played a significant role in the city’s cultural environment.
The Palast is well-known for its ostentatious performances, which combine breathtaking stage effects, intricate costumes, and outstanding choreography. Its premier show, “THE ONE Grand Show,” is especially praised for the extravagant set designs and exciting acts it features. Being one of the biggest theaters in Europe, with more than 1,800 seats, it’s a popular attraction for both residents and visitors.
Each year, the Friedrichstadt Palast welcomes around 500,000 visitors, showcasing its reputation as a premier entertainment venue. The theater operates throughout the year, with performances scheduled regularly. It’s advisable to book tickets in advance, especially for popular shows, to ensure a seat at one of Berlin’s most spectacular live entertainment experiences. Visiting the Friedrichstadt Palast promises a memorable evening filled with awe-inspiring performances and lavish production values.
11. Zoo Berlin
One of Germany’s oldest and most well-known zoos is Zoo Berlin, which opened its doors in 1844. Located in the center of Berlin, this 35-hectare zoo is home to more than 20,000 animals, representing around 1,400 different species.
One of the zoo’s main attractions is its famous giant pandas, which attract a lot of tourists. In the specially created Panda Garden, visitors can get up close and personal with these cherished and uncommon animals. For animal lovers of all ages, Zoo Berlin is a fantastic location because of its unique array of animals, which includes lions, giraffes, and elephants.
Zoo Berlin also features a modern aquarium with marine life from around the globe, including colorful fish, sharks, and exotic reptiles. The zoo attracts approximately 3 million visitors annually, reflecting its status as one of Berlin’s top attractions.
Open daily throughout the year, Zoo Berlin provides an enriching and enjoyable experience for families and individuals alike. Advance tickets are available, but purchasing them on-site is also an option. A visit to Zoo Berlin offers a wonderful opportunity to explore wildlife and support conservation efforts.
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12. Tiergarten
Tiergarten is Berlin’s central park, giving a lush and broad green sanctuary in the center of the city. It is one of Berlin’s biggest and most well-liked public parks, covering 210 hectares. The park, which was once the Prussian monarch’s hunting area, has been turned into a lovely setting with meandering walkways, tranquil ponds, and scenic meadows.
Wandering or riding a bike through Tiergarten’s open spaces and woodland regions is enjoyable for visitors. The Berlin Victory Column (Siegessäule), one of the park’s most famous landmarks, has an observation deck with expansive city views. Also, the park is home to the lovely Café am Neuen See, where you may rest beside a tiny lake and enjoy refreshments.
Tiergarten attracts millions of visitors annually, making it a central spot for both locals and tourists seeking respite from the hustle and bustle of the city. The park is open year-round, and its spacious grounds provide ample opportunities for picnicking, jogging, and simply unwinding in a natural setting. Whether you’re looking for a quiet escape or a scenic backdrop for outdoor activities, Tiergarten offers a refreshing and enjoyable experience.
Conclusion:
With over 12 million visitors each year, Berlin stands out as a top global travel destination, offering an exceptional mix of history, culture, and modernity. The city’s attractions captivate millions with their historical significance and artistic appeal. Its expansive green spaces, like Tiergarten, provide a perfect balance to the urban experience. A tour to Berlin makes sure that every visitor leaves with unforgettable memories, making it a truly remarkable place to explore and enjoy, whether you’re a history lover or an art enthusiast.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
Can You Do Berlin in 3 Days?
Yes, you can experience the highlights of Berlin in 3 days. Focus on must-see landmarks like the Brandenburg Gate, Berlin Wall Memorial, and Museum Island. Allocate time for local neighborhoods and attractions to get a well-rounded view.
What Is Worth to See in Berlin?
Berlin offers iconic sites such as the Brandenburg Gate, the Berlin Wall Memorial, and the Pergamon Museum. Don’t miss the East Side Gallery, the Reichstag Building with its panoramic dome, and the historic Tiergarten Park.
What Is Berlin Popular For?
Berlin is renowned for its rich history, including its role during the Cold War and the fall of the Berlin Wall. It’s also famous for its arts scene, diverse nightlife, and historic landmarks such as the Brandenburg Gate and the Berlin Cathedral.
Is Berlin Cheap or Expensive?
Berlin is generally considered affordable compared to other major European cities. While accommodation and dining can vary, the city offers numerous budget-friendly options for transportation, attractions, and eateries, making it accessible for various travel budgets.
Which German University Is Best for International Students?
LMU Munich, Technical University of Munich (TUM), and Humboldt University of Berlin are among the best for international students. They offer English-taught programs, excellent research opportunities, and strong global support networks.
