Berlin, Germany has no shortage of things to do and see. It’s a city known worldwide for its rocky but important history. On any given corner in this great city, there is bound to be a landmark or a memory that will mark a significant time or place. But what makes Berlin truly remarkable is how far its come and the beauty that is still waiting to be discovered.
If you’re planning a trip to Berlin, here are seven things to do and see in the city before you leave it.
View the Berliner Fernsehturm
Located in central Berlin, the Berliner Fernsehturm is central throughout the city. The television tower has become a landmark at 368 meters, which makes it the tallest structure in not only Berlin but in all of Germany. And the best part is that you can either go to dinner or simply take in the panoramic, 360-degree view from the observation deck in the unique revolving restaurant.
Take in the grandeur of Brandenburg Gate
This 18th-century moment represents the neoclassical time of Berlin and is one of the most easily recognizable structures in the city. Once upon a time, this gate was far more than a beautiful architectural piece to marvel at. It was actually a city gate that represented the beginning of a road from the metropolis of Berlin to, as the name suggests, Brandenburg. It’s come to represent many things over the years but it is still a marvel to experience firsthand.
Do a Mitte Walk
Mitte was once considered the Old Jewish Quarter of the city. Today, it still houses the 1800s New Synagogue. But more than just its Jewish heritage (although that is to be celebrated), Mitte is known city-wide for its fun galleries and cafes. Take a few hours to walk around this neighborhood and take in all it has to offer. With so much to experience, you’ll be sure to find endless activities.
Get lost in Museum Island
Right in the heart of Berlin, in Mitte (central district) is an island dubbed Museum Island. This special place is where art lovers can come to explore five museums in a single location—the Altes Museum, the Neues Museum, the Alte Nationalgalerie, the Bode Museum, and the Pergamonmuseum. Although it is called an island, you can easily get here either by walking or taking a car. It’s truly something to marvel at, as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Explore the East Side Gallery
You’ll be able to see a piece of history at the East Side Gallery memorial. This open-air art exhibit is more than simply outdoor art, it’s a section that survived the collapse of the Berlin Wall in Berlin-Friedrichshain. The murals are each painted directly onto the wall that is 1,316 meters long. You’ll feel an emotional connection, even as a tourist, to the history this gallery represents. The colorful murals depict an era, an emotion, and a time that, although crumbled and no longer in existence, is still a piece of the city today.
Take in the beauty of Landwehr Canal
The Landwehr Canal is roughly 6.6 miles long (10.7 kilometers) that’s parallel to the Spree River in Berlin. If you want to feel escaped from the city but still experience what’s near and dear to locals, walk, run, or bike this beautiful pathway that cuts through the urban streets. With every step you take you’ll notice the iconic boats that have been turned into restaurants (a regular concept in Berlin) and take in the music of musicians that perform along the waterway. There’s also a biergarten along the path where you can rest and people watch.
Bike all around town
Berlin is known for being an extremely bike-friendly city. You can get nearly anywhere by bike. So, if too much walking isn’t for you, rather than get caught up in car traffic, opt to rent a bike and get around. Seeing Berlin by bike is a fun, exciting way to experience the city. You’ll have the opportunity to stop whenever you want, cut time by speeding up, and take in the open air. As you explore all the city has to offer consider a bike rental as your top way to truly experience what’s around you.
Take the opportunity to explore endlessly without letting anything hold you back. Before you check in or if you’re merely passing through Berlin, a pro tip is to leave your baggage behind and find luggage storage in Berlin to go hands-free. As you explore all of these places in Berlin, you’ll want to have as little on you as possible. Whether you’re visiting for a few hours or a week, you’ll want to see as much as possible and get the most out of your experience right away.
