Berlin

Wondering what to do in Berlin? We have some ideas

From the majestic history of manicured Mitte to the go-go-go vibe of Graefekiez and the cool charm of Kreuzberg, Berlin is a captivating city of contrasts.

A chameleon of a city that’s constantly reimagining itself while still in the grip of history, Berlin is a true melting pot of experiences, people and sights. The city’s artsy reputation has made it a magnet for global wanderers looking for creative inspiration and cutting-edge culture, while history buffs are drawn to its moving museums and legendary landmarks.

Whether you come to dance ‘til dawn in the famed nightclubs, see the magical transformation of the East or explore the landmarks of Museum Island, Berlin promises an epic experience that will stay with you forever. It all means there can only be one answer when people ask what to do in Berlin: everything.

To get your trip off on the right foot, visitBerlin helped us put together a list of memorable things to do in Berlin, from the cosmopolitan centre to the wild west.

Meet the new face of Central Berlin

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If history doesn’t exactly haunt Berlin’s city centre, it’s always underfoot, as the city’s heart is built upon secret tunnels, buried bunkers, old pneumatic systems and the U-Bahn network that encapsulates finely tuned German engineering.

Central Berlin is its own unique universe, where cosy cafes sit in the shadows of the regal Reichstag, the booming clubs of Friedrichshain-Kreuzberg light up Instagram feeds the world over, and couples stroll the peaceful expanses of the Volkspark hand in hand. If you’re looking to be at the centre of all the action, booking accommodation in Central Berlin will put you on the doorstep of the city’s biggest attractions.

Get wild in the East

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East Germany offers far more than grist for the mill of GDR architecture fans – although the concrete high-rises and modernist masterpieces like Haus der Elektronikindustrie draw plenty of admirers. Drop by the neighbourhood of Pankow to unwind in a lido at the white lake; then visit Lichtenberg to see the largest landscape animal park in Europe.

If you’re looking to relax in natural splendour, head to Gardens of the World in Marzahn-Hellersdorf, or book a hotel in Treptow-Köpenick to enjoy the serene summer pleasure of the Müggelsee – Berlin’s largest lake. No matter where you choose to stay in East Berlin, the overwhelming feeling of freedom can be felt from the tops of the GDR towers to the cobbled streets of Alt-Marzahn.

See the scenic West

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If you think of Berlin as being a charming city full of winding waterways, picture-perfect palaces, old churches and expansive parks, you’re probably imagining West Berlin.

From the dense forests and historic manor houses of Spandau to the glittering halls of Schloss Glienicke and colourful Pfaueninsel (Peacock Island), the West beckons you to linger and enjoy Berlin at your own pace. If you’re stressed out about what to do in Berlin, the West says slow down and relax.

Due to the coronavirus outbreak, some travel restrictions are taking place in Berlin. Before planning your trip, please check the safety measures in place. Please also be aware that hotel availability and amenities may be limited during this period.