Berlin is a city like no other: full of history, culture, creativity and contrasts. There is something different to discover in every corner of the German capital, from historical monuments that shaped the history of Europe to modern districts full of art and life.
Whether you're planning to visit the city or you're already exploring it, there are some places you simply can't leave out of the tour. Here we share with you five must-see places to visit in Berlin that will help you get to know the best of this incredible city.
Brandenburg Gate
One of Berlin's most famous landmarks, and arguably Germany's most iconic monument, is at the top of our list: the Brandenburg Gate. This 18th century neoclassical monument is not only historically significant, but also truly impressive in person. The square is often filled with musicians and street performers, giving the place a unique and lively atmosphere. For the best experience (and the most beautiful photos), we recommend visiting early in the morning or at sunset, when the light brings a special charm to the door.
Fun fact: Napoleon took the top. The iconic statue of the Quadriga (a chariot drawn by four horses) was taken to Paris by Napoleon in 1806 as war booty, but returned to Berlin in 1814.
Address:
Pariser Platz, 10117 Berlin
Berlin Wall
For our second stop, we have to mention the Berlin Wall Memorial. This heavily fortified concrete barrier, 155 kilometres long, divided the city from 13 August 1961 to 9 November 1989. The wall used to be visible in many parts of the city, but today the longest surviving section is located in the East Side Gallery. In 1990, more than 100 artists from over 20 countries decorated this section with their works, creating a vibrant open-air gallery. The most famous work is the “Brotherly Kiss”, which is located in the Friedrichshain district.
If you want to delve deeper into history, the Berlin Wall Memorial offers an open-air exhibition with detailed information about this key period in the city's history.
Address:
Mühlenstraße 70-71, 10243 Berlin (East Side Gallery)
Bernauer Strasse 111, 13355 Berlin (Berlin Wall Memorial)
3. Alexanderplatz
If you love lively and touristy places, full of restaurants, shops and attractions, Alexanderplatz is definitely the place for you! Located in the Berlin-Mitte district, it is one of the city's most famous squares and a popular starting point for visitors. Nearby you will find landmarks such as the Berlin TV Tower (Fernsehturm), the Nikolai Quarter and the Rotes Rathaus (“Red Town Hall”).
Fun fact: Alexanderplatz is also home to the Urania World Clock, a large world clock in the shape of a tower. By reading its markings, you can find out the current time in 148 major cities around the world, a curious and iconic element of the square that is definitely worth seeing.
Address:
Alexanderplatz 4 10178 Berlin
4. Tempelhofer Feld Park
Although we loved living in Berlin and enjoying the vibrant city life for a while, sometimes we missed a bit of nature and tranquillity. If you find the city overwhelming, spend an afternoon at Tempelhofer Feld: it's the perfect place to relax, have a picnic with friends or just enjoy some peaceful moments.
This huge open space was once an airport and parade ground, and today it is the largest park in the city. If you're not one to sit still, there's also plenty of space for outdoor activities such as cycling, jogging, rollerblading and walking.
Entries and addresses:
West: Main entrance at Tempelhofer Damm / S-Bahn and U-Bahn station Tempelhof
West side: Paradestraße / U-Bahn station Paradestraße
North: Main entrance in Columbiadamm / Lilienthalstraße; side entrance in Columbiadamm / Golßenerstraße
East: Main entrance in Herrfurthstraße (plus 5 other entries along Oderstraße)
5. Friedrichshain
Last but not least, we have to mention the unmistakable Friedrichshain district. You've probably already heard of this hip, alternative, punk-tinged area, and it really does live up to its reputation.
Friedrichshain is full of cute shops, cafés and restaurants, but it's also famous for its legendary nightlife, with techno clubs like Berghain. While the area can sometimes feel a little edgy, with strangers wandering the streets, it's also vibrant, creative and full of energy. One of our favourite spots was Boxhagener Platz, where you can explore flea markets, relax in the park or just hang out with friends and enjoy the local atmosphere.
Fun fact: If you love shopping for second-hand clothes, Friedrichshain is a paradise. The neighbourhood is home to the Humana Secondhand Store, often referred to as the “mother ship” of second-hand shops. Located on Frankfurter Tor, it's huge, well-organised and full of treasures, guaranteed not to disappoint.
Extra tip: Don't miss a stroll through the aforementioned East Side Gallery nearby or a coffee in one of the cafés on the banks of the river Spree - it's a perfect way to discover Berlin's artistic side up close.
Address:
Boxhagener Platz 10245, Berlin (Popular and lively square in Berlin's Friedrichshain district).
We have reached the end of our article and we hope you enjoyed it. Berlin is a city full of surprises, it's not for everyone, but our year living there was truly unforgettable. The city gave us so much: history, culture, creativity and experiences that we will never forget. Even though Berlin is no longer our permanent home, we still think it is totally worth visiting and taking the time to discover it.
Feel free to read our other articles for more travel tips and information about life in Germany. And if you ever decide to visit Berlin, we wish you a wonderful stay, full of unforgettable moments, amazing sights and perhaps a few unexpected surprises along the way.