The 19 top attractions to explore in Berlin

Whether it’s day or night, Berlin offers an abundance of activities. Deeply influenced by its divided past during the Cold War, the city now stands as a symbol of freedom, creativity, and resilience.

Experience Berlin’s renowned nightlife, immerse yourself in its rich history and culture, or relax by its beautiful lakes.

Whether you’re with friends, family, or venturing solo, Berlin’s blend of glamour and grit caters to all tastes. You’re bound to enjoy it.

What are the must-see attractions in Berlin?

Berlin is a city profoundly shaped by its recent history. The effects of its 45-year occupation and 28-year division are evident throughout the city, from the remnants of the Berlin Wall to the bullet holes marking the façades of buildings. This history is an essential part of any visit.

Since the fall of the wall, the city and its residents have forged a vibrant new identity. What once were competing ideologies have evolved into a harmonious diversity. Historic structures stand alongside contemporary designs, and the culinary scene has embraced global influences, with outstanding Asian and Turkish restaurants leading the way, alongside plenty of vegan options.

As for the nightlife in Berlin? Its global reputation is well-deserved, and you'll need to experience it firsthand to truly understand. During my years there, I enjoyed some of the most unforgettable and exhilarating nights of my life.

With so much to explore and a wide array of experiences available, it's wise to have a plan. Use my curated list of favorite activities in Berlin as a guide, but feel free to wander off the main path. That’s where you’ll discover many of the city’s hidden gems.

If you need further assistance in planning your trip, from the top sights in Berlin to dining and accommodation options, our Berlin Travel Guide has all the information you need.

1. Ascend the spiral of the Reichstag

The neo-Baroque structure that houses the German Bundestag (parliament) stands as a symbol of resilience and hope. Having endured bombings, fires, the rise of the Nazis, and the artistic intervention of Christo, it skillfully blends historic and modern elements in a striking way. The Reichstag is truly one of Berlin’s most significant landmarks.

Upon entering the lower assembly chamber, you’ll find yourself ascending into the magnificent glass dome that arches skyward. Created by Norman Foster, this design allows an abundance of light to fill the space, promoting a feeling of openness and transparency. Don’t forget to step out onto the roof terrace for beautiful city views.

Expect it to be bustling no matter when you visit, but there's plenty of space for everyone. Currently, you must reserve online at least three days ahead of your visit, although it’s entirely free. Make sure to verify your dates on the website, as the Dome closes periodically for cleaning and maintenance.

2. Discover street art at Urban Nation

Whether you love it or hate it, Berlin’s graffiti scene is inescapable. It serves as a platform for artists, anarchists, and those feeling marginalized, forming a consistent presence throughout the city.

From political messages painted on the socialist buildings of Friedrichshain to elaborate murals on the modern structures of Mitte, Berlin has fully embraced street art in all its varieties. In fact, it is home to the world’s first museum dedicated to this art form.

Featuring works from renowned artists like Blek le Rat and Banksy, Urban Nation showcases both established and emerging talent. Its ongoing exhibition, “Talking… & Other Banana Skins,” will be available until 2024. Conveniently located in Schöneberg, it welcomes visitors every day except Monday, and entry is free.

3. Explore Berlin on two wheels

Berliners have a passion for cycling. The city’s flat terrain, abundance of parks, and numerous canals make it a cyclist’s paradise, with over 560 miles of bike paths leading to the top sights and attractions. Indeed, biking is one of the best ways to discover the city.

If you’re staying longer than a week, consider purchasing a bike, as it’ll be significantly more affordable than renting. The city is filled with bike shops and forums where you can buy or sell bikes daily. Whether you rent or buy, just watch out for the ever-present cobblestones and tram tracks that crisscross the streets; they’ve caused many a cyclist to experience a painful fall over the years, myself included (more than once).

Among the various paths to explore, few are as significant as the Berlin Wall Trail. Begin your journey at the East Side Gallery in Friedrichshain and follow the double row of cobblestones marking its route, embarking on a 100-mile loop around the city.

Look out for the memorial markers embedded in the streets and sidewalks, honoring those who lost their lives attempting to cross the wall.

4. Navigate the waterways on a houseboat

The main river in Berlin is the Spree, which winds its way northward through the city before merging with the River Havel, showcasing some breathtaking riverside views along the way. Numerous eager tour operators offer city cruises that also explore the Landwehrkanal and various lakes in Berlin.

A much more enjoyable option is to rent your own boat and set your own pace. The charming handcrafted Wasserkutsche houseboats are powered by silent electric motors and equipped with everything needed for a day or two on the water. This allows you to thoroughly explore every watery facet of the city—get up close to the massive Molecule Man, glide beneath the quirky Oberbaumbrücke, and drift across forest-surrounded lakes.

These boats accommodate two to six people, and Wasserkutsche can guide you on tours, routes, and important details like charging stations along your journey.

5. Bridge over to Museumsinsel

Known as Museum Island, this collection of five remarkable museums on an island in the Spree stands as a global beacon of culture and history. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, each museum highlights a different aspect of German history and art, spanning from the Stone Age to the 19th century.

For antiquities, visit the Altes Museum and Pergamonmuseum (note that the latter is closed for renovations until October 2023). If you're interested in Renaissance sculptures, your first destination should be the Bode-Museum. The Alte Nationalgalerie offers a wealth of 19th-century European art to explore.

Finally, the Neues Museum presents the histories of world cultures and houses Berlin’s most significant and debated artifact, the bust of Nefertiti.

Dinogo top tip: Avoid trying to tackle Museumsinsel all in one visit. Instead, select one or two museums to explore thoroughly, as there's an abundance to appreciate. You can always return for the rest!

6. Pay a visit to the Memorial to the Murdered Jews of Europe

Constructed to honor the six million Jews who perished during the Holocaust, the Memorial to the Murdered Jews of Europe was finalized in 2004. Located near the Brandenburg Gate, its immense scale and stark minimalism create a profound impact.

Intended for interaction, the memorial features 2,711 stelae—concrete slabs of uniform dimensions yet arranged in varied sizes and layouts to create a maze of disorienting paths. Walking through it can be deeply moving and at times overwhelming, and few visitors would dispute its significance.

The Holocaust memorial is free to explore at any time. Guided group tours are available, as well as broader tours of remembrance, but advance inquiries online are necessary.

7. Enjoy exquisite cocktails at Schwarze Traube

Berlin is absolutely brimming with distinctive and stylish bars. As you wander the cobblestone streets of Friedrichshain and Kreuzberg, you're sure to find yourself resting in a vintage wooden chair, Moscow Mule in hand.

A highlight of the bar scene is Schwarze Traube (“black grape”). With its three beautifully simple rooms adorned with treasures from local flea markets, it serves up the finest cocktails in the city. The drink menu varies daily, featuring only three options, yet no one seems to mind.

Don’t be deterred by its unassuming exterior – inside lies a cozy haven, crafted in true Berlin fashion. Open late every day from 19:00, and like many bars in the city, it operates on a cash-only basis.

8. Indulge your selfie obsession in a Fotoautomat

A truly unique feature of Berlin is the abundance of Fotoautomat scattered throughout the city. These charming vintage photo booths have been lovingly restored and can be found in the hip, urban neighborhoods of Prenzlauer Berg, Kreuzberg, NeuKölln, and Treptow-Köpenick.

During my time in Berlin, my girlfriend and I made it a tradition to stop and capture a reel at each one we encountered at least once. I dubbed this photo project “zwei euros”, named after the two euro coin required by each Fotoautomat.

Each set of photos develops uniquely, providing a beautiful keepsake of your visit. Even now, my Fotoautomat snapshots are my most cherished mementos from our time in the city.

9. Let go of your inhibitions (and clothes) at Liquidrom

After an exhilarating night out in Berlin, few experiences can be as revitalizing or dreamlike as spending a day at the Liquidrom spa in Tempodrom. This abstract tent-like structure, originally a WWII train station, looks wild from the outside and feels even wilder within.

Wash away your aches, regrets, and worries in the aroma steam baths, Himalayan salt sauna, and outdoor onsen. Be prepared to bare it all in the sauna, as Liquidrom embraces Freikörperkultur—the German philosophy of nudism.

If you’d rather keep your clothes on, skip the sauna and head to the breathtaking saltwater floating pool. With its dark ambiance and colorful light displays, it’s the perfect spot to float away for an hour or two. Submerge your head to enjoy music, which varies from classical to techno depending on the day. As the staff often say, “let yourself drift”.

Liquidrom is open daily throughout the year until late, but it's wise to book online since it’s quite popular.

10. Discover the remnants of the Berlin Wall

Few remnants of the wall still exist, a monument that split the streets and lives of Berliners for nearly three decades. Its collapse marked one of the most transformative events in modern history, reshaping the global political landscape.

However, some sections persist, both as reminders and acts of defiance. The Brandenburg Gate, once a symbol of the division between east and west, was reborn as a beacon of unity after the wall fell.

Though Checkpoint Charlie remains as a historical gateway for foreigners and diplomats during the Cold War, it has devolved into a tourist trap and lost much of its significance. A more profound experience can be found at the Gedenkstätte Berliner Mauer, the mile-long Berlin Wall Memorial on Bernauer Strasse.

Providing a unique perspective is the East Side Gallery along the Spree in Friedrichshain. This collection of 105 permanent murals painted on a preserved section of the wall reflects how people reclaimed something they were long forbidden to touch. Strolling among them, it's nearly impossible not to be swept away by the joy and excitement they evoke.

11. Experience classical music at Piano Salon Christophori

An evening at Piano Salon Christophori offers the quintessential off-the-beaten-path Berlin experience. Situated in the Wedding district, it serves as a workshop by day where artisans and musicians meticulously restore grand and historic pianos.

Every two to three weeks, the space transforms into an intimate and atmospheric music venue that celebrates the restored instruments. Whether classical or jazz, the performances evoke the spirit of historic piano salons like Paris’s Maison Erard and the Salle Pleyel.

Visit the online calendar for upcoming concerts, where you can also book tickets in advance (the site is in German, so translation may be needed). Tickets are priced at €15, typically including a glass of wine to enjoy while mingling after the show.

It’s a bit of a journey from the nearest station at Pankstrasse U-Bahn, but the effort is absolutely rewarding – it was one of the most thrilling evenings I’ve experienced in Berlin.

12. Dine at Ernst

While you’re in Wedding, don’t miss the chance to indulge in one of Berlin’s finest meals at Ernst. Despite its unassuming exterior, it’s one of the most sought-after dining experiences in the city. Be sure to reserve well in advance and, at €250 per person, it’s not inexpensive. But it is truly exceptional.

Ernst offers an exclusive dining experience. Chef Dylan Watson-Brown prepares a meal for eight fortunate guests right at the kitchen counter, fostering interaction with the culinary team. His cooking is rooted in Japanese cuisine from his time at Tokyo’s three Michelin-starred Ryugin, while emphasizing local seasonal ingredients.

It is, without a doubt, sensational. A tasting menu experience you’ll need to plan for and invest in, but it’s unforgettable. If you have any food allergies, make sure to confirm before booking. Dinogo top tip: For more Japanese-inspired fine dining, don’t miss 893 Ryōtei. Hidden behind a graffiti-covered mirrored wall, 893 offers a trendy and delectable dining experience — reservations are essential.

13. Become part of the intrigue at Teufelsberg

Rising above the Grunewald forest to the west of Berlin, the unmistakably phallic Teufelsberg attracts both the inquisitive and the counter-cultural to its geodesic structures. This abandoned NSA listening station was originally constructed to spy on communist East Berlin, and it’s shrouded in eccentricity.

Perched atop Berlin’s highest hill, a 260-foot artificial mound made from the debris of approximately 400,000 buildings destroyed in WWII, it serves as a landmark. While vandalized and covered in graffiti, it has been reclaimed by the people of Berlin from the authorities. Some semblance of order has been restored, however.

A small cash-only entry fee now applies, along with specific opening hours. You'll discover one of the world's largest street art galleries, with every surface adorned in vibrant colors. The rooftop offers my favorite view of Berlin’s skyline and the most breathtaking sunsets. Plus, there are guided tours and a bar open on weekends.

Visiting Teufelsberg is a bit of a trek. You'll need to catch the S-Bahn to Heerstraße or Grunewald and then hike for half an hour through the forest — be sure to stay on the paths as wild boar roam the area. Remember, this area is rough around the edges; having been abandoned for years, it contains holes, drops, and other dangers, so exercise caution while exploring!

Dinogo top tip: On a hot day, make your way to Teufelssee, a beautiful lake just a five-minute walk from Grunewald S-Bahn, where you can swim, either nude or in swimsuits. With shaded areas, a sandy beach, and a nearby café offering snacks, it’s a perfect spot — and it’s free, so go ahead and dive in!

14. Admire the grandeur of Schloss Charlottenburg

The magnificent Charlottenburg Palace is a baroque delight. Its numerous buildings and verdant gardens reflect the splendor and opulence of the Prussian royal family. For over five centuries, it served as a favored retreat for the Hohenzollern dynasty.

During this time, they transformed it into the stunning collection of palaces, apartments, halls, and mausoleums we admire today. Lavishly adorned and meticulously curated, you can easily spend a whole day uncovering its wonders, enjoying leisurely strolls and picnics on the grounds.

Open daily except Mondays throughout the year, tickets are available on-site, but it tends to get crowded (especially on sunny days), so it’s wisely booked in advance online. If you appreciate Schloss Charlottenburg, you’re sure to adore Sanssouci.

15. Enjoy people-watching at Tempelhofer Feld

Many Sundays were spent strolling through the former Tempelhof airport, enjoying people-watching and soaking in the leisurely rhythm of Berlin life. Closed as an airport in 2008, this 368-hectare area has been transformed into a public recreational space in the heart of the city.

Tempelhofer serves as a stage for daily life. Joggers, dog walkers, cyclists, skaters, and kite enthusiasts all make use of its grassy fields and runways. There’s even a 2.5-hectare barbecue zone and community gardens where locals cultivate their own produce. Naturally, you’ll also find Berlin’s famed beer gardens.

Offering a glimpse into Berlin life, it’s a delightful spot to spend an afternoon. With free entry from dawn to dusk, you can access it through three entrances located at Columbiadamm, Tempelhofer Damm, and Oderstrasse.

16. Venture beyond the city and explore the Berlin lakes

While Berlin is undeniably urban, it is also bordered by stunning natural landscapes, especially its lakes. The surrounding state of Brandenburg is aptly nicknamed the “land of 3,000 lakes,” reflecting its abundant water bodies.

Popular activities like wild swimming, nudist bathing, boating, and sunbathing are all well supported by the diverse lakes easily accessible via public transport.

Strandbad Wannsee is ideal for families, featuring pedal boats, playgrounds, boat rentals, and beer gardens. Meanwhile, Strandbad Plötzensee, just 30 minutes from the city center, offers a long beach perfect for a quick swim.

My personal favorite has always been Müggelsee, Berlin’s largest lake. Nestled among forests, it boasts serene spots perfect for a day of swimming and relaxing in peace. You can rent an electric boat and glide quietly through the canals of New Venice for a taste of a more tranquil lifestyle.

Many lakes feature designated swimming zones with lifeguards, yet few regulations restrict swimming elsewhere. Always ensure the water is warm and safe for swimming, be mindful of boats, and never swim alone.

17. Discover the beer gardens of Tiergarten

The name Tiergarten means “animal garden,” harkening back to its origins as a hunting ground for boar and pheasants. Today, it serves as a sprawling city park, adorned with grassy fields, wooded areas, shaded seating, and winding pathways. If you look closely, you’ll also uncover some of Berlin’s finest beer gardens.

In the southeast corner of the park, you’ll come across Café am Neuen See. While it can get quite crowded and service may be slow, the picturesque lakeside views make it worthwhile. Enjoy some Bavarian favorites, indulge in oversized beers, and let the evening unfold.

To the north, I recommend the charming Teehaus im Englischen Garten. This thatched-roof building features a spacious indoor restaurant and an outdoor garden overlooking a tranquil pond. The beers are cold, the menu straightforward, and the schnitzel is always a solid choice.

Dinogo top tip: The Dinogo team also loves spots like Schleusenkrug and Cassiopeia Sommergarten.

18. Swim on the Spree at Badeschiff

Perched on a floating barge in the River Spree across from Arena Berlin, the Badeschiff “bathing ship” offers a unique twist on a city pool. At one hundred feet long and six feet deep, it connects to a quirky beach and bar area via a wooden gangplank, often lined with sunbathers sporting tattoos.

I enjoy swimming at Badeschiff for its distinct view of the city from the water. Renting a paddleboard is also a fantastic way to further explore the Spree. As night falls, DJs take to wooden booths, setting the tone for the evening ahead.

Seasonal with varying hours, it’s essential to reserve a specific time slot ahead of time online. Don’t forget your swimsuit since this venue is not nudist-friendly, but there are lockers available for your belongings.

19. Dive headfirst into Berlin nightlife

Intense, diverse, wildly extravagant, and hedonistic—there aren’t enough words to describe the vast array of bars, clubs, and experiences that define Berlin’s nightly descent into darkness.

This city is home to the world’s most iconic clubs and stands as the global hub for electronic and techno music. Cultural ambassadors fiercely protect this scene, understanding its significance and impact on the city’s identity. For many, it’s the very reason they choose to call Berlin home.

Among the most renowned clubs are the erotic fetish haven KitKatClub, the gritty ://about blank where electronica reigns, and of course, Berghain. Long considered the world’s most famous (and infamous) club, it resides in a massive factory in Friedrichshain. With its booming sound system, expansive dance floor, and all-night parties, it’s the stuff of legends and a rite of passage for many Berliners.

All you need to do is endure the hours-long wait and navigate past the notoriously unfriendly doorman to enjoy the night of a lifetime.

How did we curate our guide to the 19 best experiences in Berlin?

I lived in Berlin for nearly two years, departing just before the pandemic shuttered much of the world. During my time, I resided in seven different apartments (typical given Berlin’s competitive rental market) spread across various neighborhoods. Most of my stay followed the cliché, as I spent time in Friedrichshain, Kreuzberg, Neukölln, and Prenzlauer Berg.

My extensive explorations have led to this collection of the best experiences in Berlin, infused with essential sights and tourist attractions. The Dinogo team, many of whom reside in the city as our European HQ, has also contributed to this guide.

Is a car necessary in Berlin?

Absolutely not! While driving in the city is feasible, the superb U-Bahn and S-Bahn trains, along with trams, are both frequent and extensive. I used Emmy, an electric moped rental app, which makes navigating the city affordable and straightforward.

However, the best mode of transport is undoubtedly the trusty bicycle. Whether you rent or purchase, ensure you have a sturdy lock, as bike theft (or 'borrowing') is quite common here.

When is the best time to visit Berlin?

While winter offers its own attractions in Berlin, be prepared for bitterly cold temperatures that can drop well below freezing, along with fierce winds racing down the city’s wide avenues. However, the Christmas markets are a highlight, especially if you can warm up with enough glühwein!

The ideal months to visit are spring and summer, when parks and gardens bloom, and the streets buzz with cafés, bars, and restaurants extending onto the sidewalks. While it may be busier and a bit pricier, the sunshine makes it all worthwhile.

How long should I stay in Berlin?

Berlin offers a diverse range of experiences to cater to all preferences. Whether you’re seeking a wild weekend in its renowned clubs or an enriching cultural journey through its remarkable museums and galleries, it’s perfect for a short stay. A week would pass quickly, and the nearby forests and lakes of Brandenburg provide a refreshing escape from the urban hustle.

Is Berlin a safe city?

While Berlin is generally safe, some areas have a reputation for being a bit rough, and petty crime can occur. It’s wise to steer clear of parks after dark, particularly Görlitzer Park in Kreuzberg, which is vibrant during the day. With its immigrant culture, you’ll hear as much English as German around the city, making it welcoming for tourists, who typically have no issues at all.

Are there tourist passes available in Berlin?

Absolutely, there are several options. The Berlin Welcome Card is a great choice, providing discounts on public transportation and various attractions.

With around 170 museums in Berlin, you can purchase specialized museum passes tailored to the number of museums you plan to visit, ensuring you get the best value.