Destination
Things to see and do in Berlin : Tourism and activities
10 addresses
Brandenburger Tor
Pariser Platz Unter den Linden/Strasse des 17 Juni, Berlin 10117Description:
MITTE. Built in 1791 as a customs collection post and recalling the design of the Acropolis's Propylaea, this formidable columned structure has served as an icon of both German factionalism and solidarity. In 1961, the Wall was built and the gate sealed off. After the Wall fell in 1989, the area was reopened to the public. The neighboring plaza is marked with merchant stalls. Located on the eastern edge of Tiergarten. S-BAHN: Unter den Linden
Berlin Holocaust Memorial
Cora-Berliner-Strasse 1 Berlin 10117 • +49-(0)-30-2639-4336Description:
MITTE. Perhaps one of Berlin's most solemn and controversial sites, the Holocaust Memorial occupies a wide expanse between Brandenburger Tor and Potsdamer Platz. Exactly 2711 concrete slabs form a chilling grey grid over the area known as the Field of Stelae. The stelae represent the horrible scope of the Holocaust and are arranged at varying heights, creating a subtle wave-like appearance. Designed by NY architect Peter Eisenman, the site and its visitor center opened to the public on 12 May 2005; among those in attendance that day were several Holocaust survivors. S-BAHN: Unter den Linden or Potsdamer Platz; U-BAHN: Potsdamer Platz
Berlin Holocaust Memorial detail
Reichstag
Platz der Republik 1 Berlin 10557 • +49-(0)-30-2273-0027Description:
MITTE. An important site in Berlin's - and Germany's - history, the House of Parliament was completed in 1894, after compensations were received from the French following the Franco-Prussian War. In 1918, the German Republic was announced from its balcony, and in 1933, Hitler gained dictatorial power at this location. After major renovations, including the addition of an ultra-sleek glass dome designed by Sir Norman Foster, the Reichstag once again became home to the German Parliament in 1999. Many sections of the building are now open for public touring. S-BAHN: Unter den Linden
Musikinstrumenten Museum
Ben-Gurion-Strasse Berlin 10785 • +49-38009- 2540-810Description:
MITTE. Walk through the history of musical instruments in this stimulating museum. Exhibits cover a time period from the 16th to the 20th centuries. Various paintings and antiquated instruments are on display. You can listen to the unique sounds of medieval trumpets, harpsichords that are over 300 years old, and walking sticks playing violin tunes through the provided headphones. Stop by around 11am on Saturday for the guided tour that ends in a performance on the Mighty Wurlitzer Organ.
Musikinstrumenten Museum detail
Kunstgewerbemuseum
Tiergartenstrasse 6 Matthaikirchplatz, Berlin 10785 • +49-(0)-30-2662-902Description:
MITTE. From the medieval to the Art Deco periods, on display is the finest collection of European crafts and arts. The museum is several levels, and displays an array of religious goldsmith pieces, as well as stained glass and other art.
Museum für Post Kommunikation Berlin
Leipziger Straße 16 Berlin 10117 • +49-(0)-30-2029-40Description:
MITTE. A chronological look at the history of the German/Prussian postal service. The museum traces postal history back to the late 1880s and offers several interactive displays.
Museum für Post Kommunikation Berlin detail
Deutsche Guggenheim
Unter den Linden 13-15 Deutsche Bank, Berlin 10117 • +49-(0)-30-2020-930Description:
MITTE. Despite being one of the smallest branches of the Guggenheim, this facility is a must-see for any art-lover. It hosts a handful of significant exhibitions each year, some commissioned by contemporary artists and others showcasing the work of figures like Warhol and Picasso. The ultra-sleek gallery was designed by Richard Gluckman and derives its name from the building that houses it: the 1920 sandstone Deutsche Bank. Free entry on Mondays. U-BAHN: Friedrichstrasse and Französische Strasse
Neue Nationalgalerie
Potsdamer Strasse 50 Berlin 10785 • +49-(0)-30-2662-651Description:
MITTE. Ludwig Mies van der Rohe designed the unique glass-and-steel structure that houses this fascinating museum. Most prominently on display are numerous works dating to the 19th and 20th centuries. German Expressionism by Kirchner and Heckel is highlighted too, alongside "classic modern" pieces by Dali, Picasso, Dix and Kokoschka. After viewing the exhibits, guests can relax and unwind in the basement café. S-BAHN and U-BAHN: Potsdamer Platz
Deutscher Dom
Gendarmenmarkt 1 Berlin 10117 • +49-(0)-30-2273-0431Description:
MITTE. This German cathedral and its French counterpart create a bookend effect for the Gendarmenmarkt square. Deutscher Dom features a museum devoted to the history of German democracy from the 19th century to the present. U-BAHN: Französische Strasse
Französischer Dom
Gendarmenmarkt 5 Berlin 10117 • +49-(0)-30-2291-760Description:
MITTE. A visit to the dome of the French Cathedral on the Gendarmenmarkt is well worth the trip. The tower offers sweeping views of Berlin, and there's even a restaurant atop the French Cathedral.
Best of the City
Brandenburger Tor
Pariser Platz Unter den Linden/Strasse des 17 Juni, Berlin 10117Description:
MITTE. Built in 1791 as a customs collection post and recalling the design of the Acropolis's Propylaea, this formidable columned structure has served as an icon of both German factionalism and solidarity. In 1961, the Wall was built and the gate sealed off. After the Wall fell in 1989, the area was reopened to the public. The neighboring plaza is marked with merchant stalls. Located on the eastern edge of Tiergarten. S-BAHN: Unter den Linden
Berlin Holocaust Memorial
Cora-Berliner-Strasse 1 Berlin 10117 • +49-(0)-30-2639-4336Description:
MITTE. Perhaps one of Berlin's most solemn and controversial sites, the Holocaust Memorial occupies a wide expanse between Brandenburger Tor and Potsdamer Platz. Exactly 2711 concrete slabs form a chilling grey grid over the area known as the Field of Stelae. The stelae represent the horrible scope of the Holocaust and are arranged at varying heights, creating a subtle wave-like appearance. Designed by NY architect Peter Eisenman, the site and its visitor center opened to the public on 12 May 2005; among those in attendance that day were several Holocaust survivors. S-BAHN: Unter den Linden or Potsdamer Platz; U-BAHN: Potsdamer Platz
Berlin Holocaust Memorial detail
Reichstag
Platz der Republik 1 Berlin 10557 • +49-(0)-30-2273-0027Description:
MITTE. An important site in Berlin's and Germany's history, the House of Parliament was completed in 1894, after compensations were received from the French following the Franco-Prussian War. In 1918, the German Republic was announced from its balcony, and in 1933, Hitler gained dictatorial power at this location. After major renovations, including the addition of an ultra-sleek glass dome designed by Sir Norman Foster, the Reichstag once again became home to the German Parliament in 1999. Many sections of the building are now open for public touring. S-BAHN: Unter den Linden
Neue Nationalgalerie
Potsdamer Strasse 50 Berlin 10785 • +49-(0)-30-2662-651Description:
MITTE. Ludwig Mies van der Rohe designed the unique glass-and-steel structure that houses this fascinating museum. Most prominently on display are numerous works dating to the 19th and 20th centuries. German Expressionism by Kirchner and Heckel is highlighted too, alongside "classic modern" pieces by Dali, Picasso, Dix and Kokoschka. After viewing the exhibits, guests can relax and unwind in the basement café. S-BAHN and U-BAHN: Potsdamer Platz
Hamburger Bahnhof - Museum für Gegenwart
Invalidenstraße 50 Berlin 10557 • +49-(0)-30-3978-3412Description:
MITTE. Located in the massive confines of a renovated train station (Hamburger Bahnhof), this museum features works by many famous artists. Most items on display come from the inherited Erich Marx Collection. Elsewhere in the museum are exhibited pieces by artists such as Amseln Kiefer, Andy Warhol and Bruce Nauman. During the evening hours, brilliant fluorescent lights illuminate the exterior of the station. Free entry on Thursdays, 2pm-6pm. S-BAHN: Lehrter Stadtbahnhof
Hamburger Bahnhof - Museum für Gegenwart detail
Pergamonmuseum
Am Kupfergraben 5 Museumsinsel, Berlin 10117 • +49-(0)-30-2090-5577Description:
MITTE. Visitors to this massive museum are confronted by a wealth of information regarding classical Greek, Islamic, Middle Eastern, and Roman art and structural design. Rent a recorded tape, and follow along as the four-hour, self-guided tour provides history and background for each intriguing exhibit. The establishment's name is derived from the Hellenistic Pergamon Altar on display, which dates back to 180-160 BC. On Thursdays between 6pm and 10pm, admission is free (not including special exhibitions). S-BAHN: Hackescher Markt
Tiergarten
Grosser Stern Berlin 10557Description:
MITTE. Berlin's largest public park originally served as royal hunting grounds until it was reconfigured in the 18th century. Nowadays, joggers, walkers, and families flock here to enjoy the natural splendor. The grounds are home to war memorials, victory statues, and palaces, along with Hitler's Grosser Stern, a paved roundabout on the park's main street. Park highlights include the Philharmonie, home to the Berlin Philharmonic Orchestra, and the Bauhaus Archiv-Museum, which charts the history of the world-renowned design school. S-BAHN: Unter den Linden, Tiergarten, Zoologischer Garten; U-BAHN: Zoologischer Garten
Jüdisches Museum
Lindenstraße 9-14 Berlin 10969 • +49-(0)-30-2599-3300Description:
KREUZBERG. One of Berlin's most significant museums, this facility is laid out in the shape of the Star of David, a stroke of genius by designer Daniel Libeskind. The impressive and at times overwhelming array of permanent exhibits offers an unparalleled glimpse at Germany's Jewish populace. The holdings, many originating from private collections, include contemporary art, sculpture and antiquarian ceremonial objects. The main permanent exhibit traces German-Jewish history from Roman times to the present day. S-BAHN: Hallesches Tor; U-BAHN: Kochstrasse
Schloss Charlottenburg
Spandauer Damm 10-22 Luisenplatz, Berlin 14059 • +49-(0)-30-3209-11Description:
CHARLOTTENBURG WILMERSDORF. Built in 1695 as a summer retreat, this once-rural palace was commissioned by the husband of Queen Sophie-Charlotte. The original structure was then expanded and now includes a courtyard and gardens. When you visit, allow enough time to tour all three areas. The interior galleries display works by German Romantic artists, including sculptures, paintings and porcelain art. At one time, Schloss Charlottenburg was home to Frederick the Great. S-BAHN: Richard-Wagner-Platz
Spandauer Zitadelle
Am Juliusturm Berlin 13599 • +49-(0)-30-3549-440Description:
SPANDAU. Built as a fortress to protect Berlin from aggressors, the original Zitadelle dates back to the late 1100s. After a strenuous climb to the top of its tower, visitors are greeted by spectacular views of the rivers Spree and Havel. The finished fortress, Italian in design, was completed in 1594 and has had many uses in succeeding centuries, including that of a prison. Tours are available on weekends. U-BAHN: Zitadelle
Historic Sites
Brandenburger Tor
Pariser Platz Unter den Linden/Strasse des 17 Juni, Berlin 10117Description:
MITTE. Built in 1791 as a customs collection post and recalling the design of the Acropolis's Propylaea, this formidable columned structure has served as an icon of both German factionalism and solidarity. In 1961, the Wall was built and the gate sealed off. After the Wall fell in 1989, the area was reopened to the public. The neighboring plaza is marked with merchant stalls. Located on the eastern edge of Tiergarten. S-BAHN: Unter den Linden
Berlin Holocaust Memorial
Cora-Berliner-Strasse 1 Berlin 10117 • +49-(0)-30-2639-4336Description:
MITTE. Perhaps one of Berlin's most solemn and controversial sites, the Holocaust Memorial occupies a wide expanse between Brandenburger Tor and Potsdamer Platz. Exactly 2711 concrete slabs form a chilling grey grid over the area known as the Field of Stelae. The stelae represent the horrible scope of the Holocaust and are arranged at varying heights, creating a subtle wave-like appearance. Designed by NY architect Peter Eisenman, the site and its visitor center opened to the public on 12 May 2005; among those in attendance that day were several Holocaust survivors. S-BAHN: Unter den Linden or Potsdamer Platz; U-BAHN: Potsdamer Platz
Berlin Holocaust Memorial detail
Reichstag
Platz der Republik 1 Berlin 10557 • +49-(0)-30-2273-0027Description:
MITTE. An important site in Berlin's and Germany's history, the House of Parliament was completed in 1894, after compensations were received from the French following the Franco-Prussian War. In 1918, the German Republic was announced from its balcony, and in 1933, Hitler gained dictatorial power at this location. After major renovations, including the addition of an ultra-sleek glass dome designed by Sir Norman Foster, the Reichstag once again became home to the German Parliament in 1999. Many sections of the building are now open for public touring. S-BAHN: Unter den Linden
Gedenkstätte Deutscher Widerstand
Stauffenbergstraße 13-14 Berlin 10785 • +49-(0)-30-2699-5000Description:
MITTE. This fascinating educational center chronicles the resistance movement to National Socialism from 1933 to 1945 via exhibits, archival material, and events. The center also oversees a memorial honoring the nearly 3000 people murdered at the Plötzensee prison from 1933 to 1945. S-BAHN and U-BAHN: Potsdamer Platz
Gedenkstätte Deutscher Widerstand detail
Haus Am Checkpoint Charlie
Friedrichstraße 43-45 Berlin 10969 • +49-(0)-3-2537-250Description:
KREUZBERG. This museum exhibits the chronological history of the renowned Checkpoint Charlie. Known as the point where the East met West, the museum is at an actual spot of pedestrian and motorist crossings. On display are exhibits on why The Wall was constructed, how it was patrolled, the consequences people faced if they were caught attempting to escape to the West, and ways people tried to escape. U-BAHN: Kochstrasse
Haus Am Checkpoint Charlie detail
Gedenkstätte Plötzensee
Hüttigpfad Berlin 13627 • +49-(0)-30-2699-5000Description:
CHARLOTTENBURG - WILMERSDORF. More than 2500 political prisoners were killed at this prison site. From 1933 to 1942, those who resisted or objected to Hitler and Nazi ideals were either hung or guillotined inside the walls. An urn, with soil gathered from all of World War II's German concentration camps, sits at the front of the penitentiary to honor the victims of this period in history.
Gedenkstätte Plötzensee detail
Die Mauer
Mühlenstraße Berlin 10243Description:
FRIEDRICHSHAIN. Initially 100 miles long, less than a half-mile now remains of the world-renowned Berlin Wall. The wall was built originally to divide the city from communist rule. However, its stone remnants now serve as an outdoor art gallery (called the Eastside Gallery) displaying murals painted by local and city artists. U-BAHN: Warschauerstrasse
Schloss Charlottenburg
Spandauer Damm 10-22 Luisenplatz, Berlin 14059 • +49-(0)-30-3209-11Description:
CHARLOTTENBURG WILMERSDORF. Built in 1695 as a summer retreat, this once-rural palace was commissioned by the husband of Queen Sophie-Charlotte. The original structure was then expanded and now includes a courtyard and gardens. When you visit, allow enough time to tour all three areas. The interior galleries display works by German Romantic artists, including sculptures, paintings and porcelain art. At one time, Schloss Charlottenburg was home to Frederick the Great. S-BAHN: Richard-Wagner-Platz
Funkturm
Hammarskjöldplatz 1 Berlin 14055 • +49-(0)-30-3038-2996Description:
CHARLOTTENBURG WILMERSDORF. This historic broadcast tower was built in the early 1900s and offers impressive views of the forest at Grunewald and the western sector of the city. The viewing platform stands at 413 feet, and on-site dining is available in the center of the tower.
Spandauer Zitadelle
Am Juliusturm Berlin 13599 • +49-(0)-30-3549-440Description:
SPANDAU. Built as a fortress to protect Berlin from aggressors, the original Zitadelle dates back to the late 1100s. After a strenuous climb to the top of its tower, visitors are greeted by spectacular views of the rivers Spree and Havel. The finished fortress, Italian in design, was completed in 1594 and has had many uses in succeeding centuries, including that of a prison. Tours are available on weekends. U-BAHN: Zitadelle
Museums
Musikinstrumenten Museum
Ben-Gurion-Strasse Berlin 10785 • +49-38009- 2540-810Description:
MITTE. Walk through the history of musical instruments in this stimulating museum. Exhibits cover a time period from the 16th to the 20th centuries. Various paintings and antiquated instruments are on display. You can listen to the unique sounds of medieval trumpets, harpsichords that are over 300 years old, and walking sticks playing violin tunes through the provided headphones. Stop by around 11am on Saturday for the guided tour that ends in a performance on the Mighty Wurlitzer Organ.
Musikinstrumenten Museum detail
Museum für Post Kommunikation Berlin
Leipziger Straße 16 Berlin 10117 • +49-(0)-30-2029-40Description:
MITTE. A chronological look at the history of the German/Prussian postal service. The museum traces postal history back to the late 1880s and offers several interactive displays.
Museum für Post Kommunikation Berlin detail
Gedenkstätte Deutscher Widerstand
Stauffenbergstraße 13-14 Berlin 10785 • +49-(0)-30-2699-5000Description:
MITTE. This fascinating educational center chronicles the resistance movement to National Socialism from 1933 to 1945 via exhibits, archival material, and events. The center also oversees a memorial honoring the nearly 3000 people murdered at the Plötzensee prison from 1933 to 1945. S-BAHN and U-BAHN: Potsdamer Platz
Gedenkstätte Deutscher Widerstand detail
Neue Synagoge Berlin Centrum Judaicum
Oranienburger Straße 28-30 Berlin 10117 • +49 30 8802 8300Description:
MITTE. The massive golden dome of this synagogue can be seen throughout Mitte. Built in 1866, the synagogue was damaged by fire in 1939 and then again in 1945, during Allied bombings. In the late 1950s, the main room was demolished by order of the Communist leaders of East Berlin, leaving only a portion of the original structure intact. The facility reopened in 1995, following years of extensive renovation, as a museum, research center, and memorial. Its "Open Ye the Gates" permanent exhibit attracts travelers from all over the world. Guided group tours must be requested in writing. All tours are in German except by prior arrangement. Closed on Saturdays and Jewish holidays. S-BAHN: Oranienburger Strasse
Neue Synagoge Berlin Centrum Judaicum detail
Alte Nationalgalerie
Bodestrasse 1-3 Museumsinsel, Berlin 10178 • +49-(0)-30-2090-5801Description:
MITTE. Completed in 1876, the Alte Nationalgalerie is noteworthy because its design reflects the very same period of the art it houses a true harmony of form and function. Though heavily damaged during WWII, the building re-opened in 2001 following extensive reconstruction, and its vast, three-level collection of 19th-century art continues to be available for public consumption. Among the pieces on display are Impressionist paintings by Claude Monet and Goethe-era landscapes by Jakob Philipp Hackert.
Deutsches Technikmuseum Berlin
Trebbinner Strasse 9 Berlin 10963 • +49-(0)-30-9025-40Description:
KREUZBERG. A collective look at transportation and technology is represented here, and everything from an ox-pulled cart to aircraft is on display. The collection of steam engines is worth the ticket price alone, and the jewelery-making section is enlightening. The museum offers lots of great hands-on and interactive exhibits too.
Deutsches Technikmuseum Berlin detail
Ephraim Palais
Poststraße 16 Berlin 10178 • +49-(0)-30-2400-2121Description:
MITTE. Found in the Nicholas Quarter, this museum is housed in what some believe to be the most elegant building in the city. Exhibits displayed here alternate on a consistent basis. A majority of the showcases focus on Secessionists from Berlin and are planned by the Stadt Museum. U-BAHN: Klosterstrasse, Alexanderplatz
Schloss Charlottenburg
Spandauer Damm 10-22 Luisenplatz, Berlin 14059 • +49-(0)-30-3209-11Description:
CHARLOTTENBURG WILMERSDORF. Built in 1695 as a summer retreat, this once-rural palace was commissioned by the husband of Queen Sophie-Charlotte. The original structure was then expanded and now includes a courtyard and gardens. When you visit, allow enough time to tour all three areas. The interior galleries display works by German Romantic artists, including sculptures, paintings and porcelain art. At one time, Schloss Charlottenburg was home to Frederick the Great. S-BAHN: Richard-Wagner-Platz
Botanischer Garten
Königin-Luise-Straße 6-8 Berlin 14195 • +49-(0)-30-8385-0100Description:
STEGLITZ - ZEHLENDORF. More than 100 acres of botanical gardens feature a bounty of beautiful floral and horticultural displays. The gardens feature 1800 specimens of plant life, and there's an on-site flower and herb museum that's great for browsing. The gardens open year-round at 9am; closing time ranges from 4pm to 9pm depending on the season.
Allierten Museum
Clayallee 135 Berlin 14195 • +49-(0)-30-8181-990Description:
STEGLITZ ZEHLENDORF. Memorabilia left behind by Allied forces when they left West Berlin in 1994 are on display here. Visitors to this museum will see a compilation of numerous photos, documents, and films from the U.S. forces, as well as various items from Berlin's veterans and general public. One of the most popular sites in the museum is the guardhouse that came from Checkpoint Charlie.
To see, to do in Berlin
Content provided by 10Best