25 Fun & Best Things to do in Berlin [2023 Winter Guide]

In this article, we’ll explore the best things to do in Berlin to make sure you’ll get the most out of your stay in this beautiful German capital city.

Do you know that Berlin is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Europe?

Berlin has a vibrant, active, and open-minded spirit. It’s an iconic city for anyone seeking to explore new possibilities and perspectives in life – so it’s no wonder why millions visit this place every year!

There are tons of things to do in berlin, so if you still don’t have any plans or simply want to find out what other people usually do during their stay here, then the following list will be perfect for you.

The 25 most popular things to see in Berlin this year

We sat down and went through all the popular tourist attractions in Berlin. Sifting through the reviews from credible sources, we found the following 25 things to absolutely do when in Berlin in descending order.

25. Kurfürstendamm

Kurfürstendamm is one of Berlin’s most popular shopping streets and is often referred to as the “Kudamm”. It’s a great place to find high-end fashion, cosmetics, and jewelry stores, as well as department stores like Kaufhaus des Westens (KaDeWe).

If you’re looking for a more unique shopping experience, head to the side streets off Kurfürstendamm where you’ll find vintage stores, independent boutiques, and concept shops.

If you’re looking to treat yourself to some new clothes or just window-shop, Kurfürstendamm is the place to be.

24. DDR Museum

The DDR Museum is a must-see for anyone interested in German history, especially the Cold War era. The museum does an excellent job of explaining what life was like in former East Germany through interactive exhibits.

You can try on clothes from the period, sit in a Trabant car, and even experience what it was like to be interrogated by the secret police.

The DDR Museum is one of the most popular museums in Berlin, so make sure to buy your tickets in advance.

Info and tickets: More Info

23. Volkspark Friedrichshain

Volkspark Friedrichshain is one of the largest and most popular parks in Berlin. The park has something for everyone, with a playground, a botanical garden, an amphitheater, and even a beach volleyball court.

The park is also a great place to go for a walk or jog, and on Sundays, the main road through the park is closed to traffic, making it even more enjoyable.

If you’re looking for a place to relax or have some fun in the sun, Volkspark Friedrichshain is the perfect spot.

22. Sanssouci Palace

Sanssouci Palace is a beautiful baroque palace located in the town of Potsdam (Read our Potsdam City Guide), just outside of Berlin. The palace was built in the 18th century as a summer residence for Frederick the Great, and it shows.

The grounds are beautifully landscaped, and the interior of the palace is equally impressive, with lavishly decorated rooms containing paintings, furniture, and porcelain from the 18th century. Sanssouci Palace is a must-see for anyone interested in German history or architecture.

Sanssouci Palace is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Potsdam, so make sure to buy your tickets in advance.

21. German Museum of Technology

The German Museum of Technology is one of the most popular museums in Berlin. The museum covers a wide range of topics, from transportation and communication to energy and industry.

The museum has an impressive collection of historic artifacts, including a working replica of the first-ever diesel engine, and interactive exhibits that explain how different technologies work.

The German Museum of Technology is a great place to learn about the history of technology and see some amazing artifacts up close.

20. Botanischer Garten Berlin

The Botanischer Garten Berlin is one of the largest botanical gardens in Europe. The garden covers over 70 hectares and contains over 22,000 different plants from all over the world.

The garden also has a restaurant, a café, and a playground, making it a great place to spend a day with family or friends.

If you’re interested in plants and gardening, the Botanischer Garten Berlin is a must-see.

19. Tempelhofer Feld

Tempelhofer Airport is a former airport that opened in 1923 and was closed in 2008. The airport was reopened to the public in 2010, and it is now one of the most popular parks in Berlin.

The park is huge, and there are plenty of things to do, including cycling, picnicking, and kite-flying.

If you’re looking for a place to relax or get some fresh air, Tempelhofer Airport is the perfect spot.

18. Kaiser-Wilhelm-Gedächtniskirche

The Kaiser-Wilhelm-Gedächtniskirche is a church located in the center of Berlin.

The church was built between 1891 and 1895 and was destroyed in 1943 during World War II.

Kaiser Wilhelm I laid the cornerstone for the church, and it was named in his honor. The church was designed by Franz Heinrich Schwechten, and is an example of Neo-romanesque architecture.

After the war, the church was rebuilt with a modern design by Hans Scharoun. The Kaiser-Wilhelm-Gedächtniskirche is one of Berlin’s most visited tourist attractions, with over 2 million visitors each year.

The Kaiser-Wilhelm-Gedächtniskirche is a popular tourist destination, and it is one of the most recognizable landmarks in Berlin. If you’re interested in German history or architecture, the Kaiser-Wilhelm-Gedächtniskirche is a must-see.

17. Jüdisches Museum Berlin

Jüdisches Museum Berlin is a must-see for anyone interested in Jewish history and culture. The museum chronicles the long and rich history of the Jewish people in Germany, from their first settlements in the early Middle Ages to their mass emigration in the 20th century.

The exhibitions are beautifully designed and thoughtfully curated, and the museum’s often challenging subject matter is handled with sensitivity and respect.

Jüdisches Museum Berlin is an essential part of understanding not only Jewish history but also German history. It is a powerful and moving testimony to the resilience of the human spirit.

16. Potsdamer Platz in Berlin

If you’re looking for a little taste of America in the heart of Berlin, then Potsdamer Platz is the place to go. This vibrant square was once a no-man’s land dividing East and West Germany, but today it’s a bustling center of activity with something for everyone.

The plaza was destroyed during World War II, but it was rebuilt in the 1990s after the fall of the Berlin Wall where it was dividing line between East and West Berliners. 

Today, it’s a bustling center of international business and tourism and you’ll find great restaurants and bars, fascinating museums, and plenty of shopping opportunities.

15. Schloss Charlottenburg

Are you looking for a breathtaking view of Berlin? Look no further than Schloss Charlottenburg.

Schloss Charlottenburg is one of the most famous landmarks in Berlin. It is a beautiful baroque palace that was built in the 17th century for Sophie Charlotte, the wife of Elector Friedrich III. The palace became the main residence of the Hohenzollern dynasty and remained so until the end of World War II.

Today, Schloss Charlottenburg is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Berlin. Visitors can explore the lavish staterooms, stroll through the beautiful gardens, and see the graves of famous Prussian kings and queens.

Whether you’re interested in history or just looking for a beautiful place to spend an afternoon, Schloss Charlottenburg is definitely worth a visit.

14. Museumsinsel

Museumsinsel is a small island on the River Spree in Berlin. The island is home to five major museums, all of which are dedicated to different aspects of art and history.

The Museumsinsel was first developed in the early 19th century as a center for the arts, and it soon became one of the most important cultural sites in Europe.

Today, Museumsinsel is a popular tourist destination, and its museums attract millions of visitors each year.

With its rich history and diverse collection of museums, Museumsinsel is an essential part of Berlin’s cultural landscape.

13. Berliner Fernsehturm

The Berliner Fernsehturm is a TV tower in the center of Berlin. The tower was built in the 1960s and is one of the city’s most recognizable landmarks.

At a height of 368 meters, the Berliner Fernsehturm is the tallest structure in Germany. Visitors can take an elevator to the top of the tower for stunning views of the city.

The Berliner Fernsehturm is a popular tourist destination, and it’s also a great place to get a bird’s-eye view of Berlin’s many attractions.

If you’re looking for a unique way to see the city, then be sure to add the Berliner Fernsehturm.

12. Checkpoint Charlie

Checkpoint Charlie was a crossing point between East and West Germany during the Cold War. The checkpoint was named after the letter “C” in the NATO phonetic alphabet.

The checkpoint became famous when, in 1961, it was the site of a stand-off between American and Soviet tanks. This incident was one of the most dramatic events of the Cold War, and it helped to heighten tensions between the two superpowers.

Today, Checkpoint Charlie is a popular tourist attraction, and its museum chronicles the history of the Berlin Wall and the Cold War.

If you’re interested in learning more about this pivotal moment in history, then be sure to visit Checkpoint Charlie.

11. Berliner Dom

Berliner Dom (Berlin Cathedral Church) is Berlin’s main church, located on Museum Island in the Mitte district.

The Berlin Cathedral has been the Prussian state church since the 18th century and Berlin’s principal Protestant church since the unification of East and West Berlin in 1989/90. Berlin Cathedral is named after Princess Sophie Charlotte, Electress of Brandenburg, who died in 1705.

It is one of the most popular churches and tourist destinations in Berlin with more than 400,000 visitors annually. But the Berlin Cathedral is not only a tourist destination; it is also an active place of worship with regular services taking place throughout the week.

The Berliner Dom has a rich history, and it has been the site of many important events.

10. Topography of Terror

The Topography of Terror is a museum located on the site of the former Gestapo and SS headquarters in Berlin. The museum chronicles the history of Nazi terror, from the rise of Hitler to the fall of the Third Reich.

The museum is located in one of the most historic and significant sites in Berlin. The Gestapo and SS headquarters were the site of many atrocities during the Nazi regime, and it is now a powerful reminder of the horrors of that time.

The Topography of Terror is a must-visit for anyone interested in learning about this dark period in history.

9. Berlin Zoo

Berlin Zoo is one of the oldest and best-known zoos in the world.

Located in the heart of Berlin, it is home to more than 14,000 animals from over 1,500 different species.

The zoo is particularly renowned for its work with endangered species and has been instrumental in the preservation of several rare and endangered animals. Berlin Zoo also operates a large animal hospital and research center, which works to improve the health and welfare of animals both in captivity and in the wild.

With its commitment to conservation and animal welfare, Berlin Zoo is an important institution not only for Berliners but for people all over the world.

8. Gendarmenmarkt

Gendarmenmarkt is a beautiful square located in the heart of Berlin. It is home to two stunning German cathedrals – the French Cathedral and the German Cathedral – as well as the Konzerthaus, a concert hall that hosts classical and contemporary music performances.

The square is also a popular gathering place for locals and tourists alike, and it is surrounded by cafes, restaurants, and shops.

In the winter, Gendarmenmarkt is even more magical, as it is decorated with lights and a large Christmas tree.

Whether you are looking to take in some of Berlin’s architectural landmarks or simply enjoy a cup of coffee in a charming setting, Gendarmenmarkt is definitely worth a visit.

7. Berlin Wall Memorial

The Berlin Wall was a physical barrier that divided East and West Germany from 1961 to 1989. The wall cut through the city of Berlin, and it helped to heighten tensions between the two superpowers.

Today, the Memorial of the Berlin Wall is a powerful reminder of this dark period in history. The memorial is located on the site of the former wall, and it features a section of the original wall, as well as information about its history.

The outdoor exhibition uses Bernauer Strasse as its canvas, where you’ll find the venue, showing what life behind ‘The Iron Curtain’ really looked like with monuments dedicated to those killed by communism – all located right along one single street!

6. Pergamonmuseum

The Pergamonmuseum is home to many ancient artifacts, as well as a reconstruction of the famous Pergamon Altar.

The museum also houses the Ishtar Gate, which was originally built in Babylon in the 6th century BC. The Gate was later reconstructed at the Pergamonmuseum, and it is now one of the most popular exhibits at the museum.

If you are interested in ancient history or archaeology, the Pergamonmuseum is definitely worth a visit.

5. East Side Gallery Berlin

East Side Gallery is a surviving stretch of the Berlin Wall that has been transformed into an open-air gallery. It features a collection of murals painted by artists from all over the world.

The gallery is located in Kreuzberg, a district in Berlin that was once East Germany.

Today, the East Side Gallery is a popular tourist destination and a symbol of hope and unity.

The murals depict a variety of subjects, from political statements to portraits of ordinary people. They are a reminder of the power of art to transcend borders and bring people together.

4. Alexanderplatz

Alexanderplatz is a public square and transport hub in the central Mitte district of Berlin.

The TV Tower is a notable landmark. The plaza also houses the Park Inn Berlin Alexanderplatz Hotel and the World Time Clock.

The Alexanderplatz train station is a large interchange for the Berlin U-Bahn, S-Bahn, regional trains, and long-distance trains, as well as serving as a hub for local and regional buses.

Alexanderplatz has been called “Berlin’s most famous square” and “the heart of the city”, and is named after Alexander von Humboldt, who was an explorer and scientist.

It was originally known as “Ochsenplatz”, which means “oxen market”. This was changed to “Alexanderplatz” in 1805, when Alexander I visited Berlin.

Alexanderplatz has been redeveloped several times since then, most notably in 1961 when it was rebuilt as a socialist planned city square. It was redeveloped again in the 1990s following reunification. Today, Alexanderplatz is a popular tourist destination.

3. The Holocaust Memorial

Located near the Brandenburg Gate, The Holocaust Memorial, the monument dedicated to the victims of the Holocaust.

The memorial consists of 2,711 concrete slabs, arranged in a grid pattern. The slabs are of different heights, creating the illusion of a field of graves.

Tourists can walk through the memorial, and many choose to leave flowers or other items in remembrance of the victims.

The memorial also includes an underground museum, which tells the story of the Holocaust through personal testimonies and artifacts.

The museum is a powerful reminder of the atrocities that were committed during the Holocaust, and it serves as an important reminder of the need to stand up against bigotry and hatred.

2. Reichstag

The Reichstag is the parliament of Germany and is of cause located in the capital.

It was first built in 1894, but it was badly damaged in a fire in 1933 and was not used again until after the end of World War II.

When Germany was reunified in 1990, the Reichstag became the home of the newly-formed German parliament.

In 1999, a major renovation project was completed, and the Reichstag once again became a symbol of German democracy. Visitors to the Reichstag can tour the building, including the Reichstag dome, which offers stunning views over Berlin.

The Reichstag is a symbol of democracy, and it is an important part of Berlin’s history.

1. Brandenburger Tor

Brandenburger Tor is the most iconic landmark in Germany according to our research. It is located in the center of Berlin, at the junction of Unter den Linden and Ebertstraße.

The Brandenburg Gate was built in the 18th century as a triumphal arch to celebrate the victorious Prussian armies. Today, it is a symbol of German unity and freedom.

The Brandenburg Gate is the most popular tourist attraction in Berlin among tourists, and it is also used as a backdrop for many political rallies and events.

Every New Year’s Eve, thousands of people gather at the Brandenburg Gate to celebrate with fireworks. The Brandenburg Gate is an important part of Berlin’s history and identity, and it continues to be a powerful symbol of freedom and unity.

If you had to pick one attraction, this should be it!

Bonus: Soviet War Memorial in Treptower Park

The Soviet War Memorial in Treptower Park is a memorial to the Soviet soldiers who died during the Battle of Berlin in World War II.

The memorial consists of a large statue of a Soviet soldier, flanked by two smaller statues of soldiers and an eternal flame. The memorial is surrounded by a park, which is a popular spot for picnics and walks.

The Soviet War Memorial is one of the most visited memorials in Berlin, and it is a powerful reminder of the sacrifices made by the Soviet soldiers during World War II.

What to see in Berlin with kids?

Berlin is a great city for families. There are plenty of kid-friendly attractions, and the city is very walkable, so you won’t have to worry about renting a car.

Here are the 9 best things to do with children in Berlin:

9. Museum für Naturkunde

If you’re looking for a place to take the kids that is both educational and fun, the Museum für Naturkunde should be at the top of your list.

This huge museum is filled with all sorts of exhibits on natural history, including dinosaurs, animals, and minerals.

Even if your children aren’t into museums, they’re sure to find something that interests them here

8. Legoland Discovery Centre Berlin

The attraction is located in the Sony Center at Potsdamer Platz and offers numerous interactive exhibits on two floors. You can also build your own Lego creations, or enjoy a meal at the attached Bricks restaurant.

However, there are a few things to keep in mind if you’re planning on visiting Legoland Discovery Centre Berlin with your children.

First of all, the attraction is geared towards children aged 3-10, so younger kids may not find it as exciting as older ones.

Secondly, it can be quite crowded on weekends and during school holidays, so it’s best to visit during off-peak times if possible.

7. Moritzhof Petting Farm

If you are visiting Berlin with young children, be sure to check out the Moritzhof Petting Farm.

This farm is located in the city center and is a great place for kids to get up close and personal with some of the animals. The farm also has a playground and picnic area, making it the perfect spot to spend a day with the family.

6. MACHmit! Museum for Children

The MACHmit! Museum for Children is a great place to take your kids. There are interactive exhibits and activities, as well as a cafe and shop.

However, there are a few things to be aware of. First, the museum can be quite crowded, so it’s best to visit on weekdays if possible.

Second, some of the exhibits are geared towards older children, so younger kids may get bored. Finally, the cafe can be expensive.

Overall, the MACHmit! Museum for Children is a great place to visit with your kids!

5. Labyrinth Kindermuseum Berlin

If you’re looking for a fun museum to take the kids to in Berlin, be sure to check out the Labyrinth Kindermuseum.

It’s specifically designed for children aged 4-12, and offers a variety of interactive exhibits that are both educational and entertaining.

The museum is divided into five sections: art, science, history, world cultures, and play.

So no matter what your child’s interests are, there’s sure to be something for them at the Labyrinth Kindermuseum.

And if you get lost in all the fun, don’t worry – there’s a restaurant on site where you can refuel!

4. AquaDome Berlin

The AquaDome in Berlin is the perfect place for families to spend a day out. There are plenty of activities for kids of all ages, and the pool area is huge!

You can find everything from a lazy river to a diving board, so there’s something for everyone. And if you get hungry or thirsty, there are plenty of concession stands scattered throughout the facility.

So make a splash and check out the AquaDome!

3. Tierpark Berlin

Berlin’s animal park is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the city for families.

It’s home to more than 1,500 animals from around the world, and there’s something for everyone to enjoy.

Whether you’re interested in learning about wildlife or just want to see some impressive animals up close, a trip to the zoo is a must-do during your visit to Berlin.

There’s even a playground and petting zoo for the kids!

2. Abenteuerlicher Bauspielplatz Kolle 37

Kolle 37 is a large, interactive adventure playground and construction site with playhouse.

Due to its many offers, the exciting Kolle 37 attracts children from 6-16 years old who enjoy creative workshops in addition as they build their own huts that meet criteria set by adults’ supervision.

If you’re lucky enough for your group’s dream hut to prevail over all others then submit an application!

1. Aquarium Berlin

On top of our list of things to do in Berlin with kids sits Aquarium Berlin (Sea Life Berlin).

With its wide variety of marine life on display, there’s a reason why it’s ranked #1 by many websites.

Kids will love getting up close and personal with the fish, while parents can learn more about the ocean and its inhabitants.

Plus, with plenty of interactive exhibits, it’s sure to be a fun and educational experience for all.

If you’ve got only one or two days in Berlin, make sure to book a ticket for the Aquarium!

Tickets: See pricing

Common Questions about Berlin

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