Berlin, the capital of Germany, is a city that has been wounded, destroyed, rebuilt, and become a protagonist of European and world history over the last 60 years. Famous for the wall that divided it in two since the post-war period until 1989, Berlin has managed to rediscover its treasures from the history of humanity, hidden behind this dark period. Today, it is also known as one of Europe’s capital cities for electronic music, design, and fashion.
Exploring the Heart of Berlin
As you wander through the city, you’ll discover that every corner holds a story waiting to be told. Let’s embark on a journey to uncover some of the hidden treasures of Berlin.
1. Tiergarten: A Oasis in the City
Like all great cities, Berlin has its large urban park, perfect for some fresh air: we’re talking about the Tiergarten, located in the western part of the city, between the Brandenburg Gate and the Berlin Zoo. The Tiergarten is the largest and oldest park in Berlin and covers 210 acres, including trails, lakes, and large grasslands, populated by various animal species and plants.
- Getting There: Take a short walk from the Brandenburg Gate (23 minutes)
- Things to Do:
- Take a bike tour
- Visit the Siegessäule, also known as the Victory Column
2. The Brandenburg Gate: A Symbol of Unity
The Brandenburg Gate is one of Berlin’s most iconic landmarks and a symbol of unity for Germany. This gate has a significant historical value because many events, rallies, and protests took place here.
- Getting There: Take a short walk from the Reichstag (6 minutes)
- Things to Do:
- Take in the stunning neoclassical architecture
- Admire the Quadriga by Johann Gottfried Schadow
3. The Reichstag: A Palace of Democracy
The Palaces of the German Empire (Reichstag Gebäude) is one of Berlin’s symbols and the seat of the German parliament. Although it’s a government building, part of the parliament is open to the public.
- Getting There: Take a short walk from the Brandenburg Gate (6 minutes)
- Things to Do:
- Visit the large glass dome
- Explore the rich history and architecture
4. The Hamburger Bahnhof: A Museum of Contemporary Art
The Hamburger Bahnhof is a museum housed in an old train station, showcasing contemporary art since 1960.
- Getting There: Take public transportation or walk (5 minutes)
- Things to Do:
- Explore the exhibits by Andy Warhol and Roy Lichtenstein
- Admire the unique architecture
5. Museum Island: A Treasure Trove of Art and History
Museum Island is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, featuring several museums showcasing art and history from ancient civilizations to modern times.
- Getting There: Take public transportation or walk (10 minutes)
- Things to Do:
- Visit the Pergamon Museum
- Explore the Alte Nationalgalerie, Bode-Museum, Neues Museum, or Altes Museum
6. Berlin Cathedral: A Stunning Example of Architecture
Berlin Cathedral is located in Museum Island and was completed in 1904.
- Getting There: Take public transportation or walk (10 minutes)
- Things to Do:
- Climb the dome for breathtaking views
- Explore the stunning architecture and history
7. Alexanderplatz and TV Tower: A Vibrant Square
Alexanderplatz is one of Berlin’s most famous squares, loved by locals and tourists alike.
- Getting There: Take public transportation or walk (10 minutes)
- Things to Do:
- Visit the iconic Berliner Fernsehturm
- Explore the vibrant atmosphere and shopping centers
8. Berlin Wall and East Side Gallery: A Reminder of History
The Berlin Wall was erected after World War II and divided the city until its fall in 1989.
- Getting There: Take public transportation or walk (15 minutes)
- Things to Do:
- Explore the remnants of the wall
- Visit the East Side Gallery, featuring over 100 murals
9. Gendarmenmarkt: A Historic Square
Gendarmenmarkt is one of the most beautiful squares in Berlin, nestled between the Palace of the Prussian Monarchs and the New Church.
- Getting There: Take public transportation or walk (15 minutes)
- Things to Do:
- Explore the stunning architecture
- Attend outdoor concerts and festivals
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10. Jewish Museum: A Unique Architecture
The Jewish Museum is located in Berlin’s Mitte district, featuring unique architecture designed by Daniel Libeskind.
- Getting There: Take public transportation or walk (20 minutes)
- Things to Do:
- Explore the permanent exhibitions and temporary shows
- Learn about Jewish life in Germany over two millennia
11. Checkpoint Charlie: A Symbol of Division
Checkpoint Charlie was a symbol of division during the Cold War, but today it’s an iconic spot for tourists.
- Getting There: Take public transportation or walk (15 minutes)
- Things to Do:
- Take a photo with the American and Soviet soldiers’ figurines
- Explore the museum
12. Topography of the Terrors: A Reminder of History
The Topographie des Terrors is a museum that explores the atrocities committed by the Gestapo and SS during World War II.
- Getting There: Take public transportation or walk (10 minutes)
- Things to Do:
- Explore the exhibits and learn about the events
- Visit the nearby Checkpoint Charlie
13. Potsdamer Platz: A Heart of Modern Berlin
Potsdamer Platz is the heart of modern Berlin, rebuilt after World War II destruction.
- Getting There: Take public transportation or walk (10 minutes)
- Things to Do:
- Explore the shopping centers and restaurants
- Visit the nearby Holocaust Memorial
14. Zoological Garden Berlin: A Family-Friendly Attraction
Berlin’s Zoological Garden is one of the oldest in Germany, opened in 1844.
- Getting There: Take public transportation or walk (20 minutes)
- Things to Do:
- Visit the large aquarium
- Explore the animal enclosures and exhibits
15. Charlottenburg Castle: A Historic Retreat
Charlottenburg Castle is located outside Berlin, once a favorite retreat for Prussian monarchs.
- Getting There: Take public transportation or drive (30 minutes)
- Things to Do:
- Explore the beautiful gardens and architecture
- Visit the palace itself
Exploring the City Like a Local
If you want to experience Berlin like a local, take a boat tour on the Spree River for a unique perspective on the city. Explore the street art scene with a guided tour: Berlin is one of Europe’s capitals of street art.
Visit the KitKat Club for a night where everything is possible!
Prioritizing Your Activities
With only one day, you’ll have to prioritize your activities. Here’s a suggested itinerary:
- 9:00 – Brandenburg Gate
- 9:30 – Reichstag
- 11:30 – Holocaust Memorial
- 13:00 – Gendarmenmarkt
- 14:30 – Berlin Cathedral
- 16:00 – Checkpoint Charlie and East Side Gallery
- 19:00 – Alexanderplatz and TV Tower
With three days, you can explore the city’s main attractions without rushing:
Day 1:
- Brandenburg Gate
- Reichstag
- Holocaust Memorial
- Gendarmenmarkt
- Berlin Cathedral
- Alexanderplatz and TV Tower
Day 2:
- Potsdamer Platz
- Topography of the Terrors and Checkpoint Charlie
- Jewish Museum
- Muro di Berlino/East Side Gallery
Day 3: Visit Museum Island, including the Alte Nationalgalerie (€12), Bode-Museum (€12), Neues Museum (€14), or Altes Museum (€10).
Organizing Your Stay in Berlin
Berlin is a city with a moderate cost of living, similar to Italy. However, it’s also possible to organize a low-cost trip.
Getting to Berlin is easy, as there are many direct flights from Italy, even with low-cost airlines.
The best time to visit Berlin is from May to October, but if you’re not afraid of the cold, don’t miss the Christmas markets!
The Mitte district is the best place to stay for sightseeing and nightlife. For street food, try traditional dishes like currywurst. If traveling with children, take advantage of kid-friendly attractions like the zoo, Tiergarten, TV Tower, and Little BIG City Berlin!
