Berlin is an absolutely amazing city! Out of all the places I’ve lived, this city is one of my favourites; I created memories here that will last a lifetime. With its rich history, vibrant neighbourhoods, incredible food scene, and iconic landmarks, Berlin has something for everyone. Whether you’re planning a weekend getaway or spending a few days exploring, this Berlin travel guide is perfect for first-time visitors looking to make the most of their trip.
In this post, you’ll find the best things to do in Berlin, must-see attractions, tips on how to get around the city, and everything you need to plan the perfect Berlin itinerary.
Some of the links in this post are affiliate links which mean that if you choose to book through it I earn a small commission at no cost to you. I appreciate your support to keep this site up and running!
Planning Your Journey
How to get to Berlin
Wondering how to travel to Berlin? Getting to Germany’s capital is easier than ever, whether you’re flying, taking the train, or arriving by bus.
By Air: Berlin is now served by a single major airport – Berlin Brandenburg Airport (BER) – located just south of the city. This modern hub replaced the older Tegel and Schönefeld airports in 2020 and is a significant upgrade in both design and connectivity. You can fly to Berlin from most major cities in Europe and many long-haul destinations overseas, making it a convenient entry point for international travellers.
By Train: Travelling to Berlin by train is a popular and comfortable option, especially if you’re already in Germany or a nearby country. Germany’s rail network is fast, efficient, and scenic – especially the high-speed ICE trains. While ICE tickets can sometimes be pricey, there are frequent deals if you book in advance. Berlin has two main train stations: Hauptbahnhof (Berlin Central Station) and Ostbahnhof, both well connected to the rest of the city via public transport.
By Bus: If you’re travelling on a budget or coming from another European city, Berlin is easily accessible by long-distance bus. Companies like FlixBus offer affordable connections from dozens of cities across Europe. Buses arrive at central hubs like the ZOB (Central Bus Station).
For the best deals, book your flights or train tickets in advance using sites like Kiwi.com and Omio and for bus routes, check out Busbud. Getting to Berlin has never been easier!
Best time to visit Berlin
Berlin is a fantastic city to visit at any time of year, with each season offering a different experience. Summer in Berlin is perfect for enjoying long sunny days, riverside drinks, open-air music festivals, and lively beer gardens. Spring and autumn are great for sightseeing, with mild temperatures, fewer crowds, and beautiful parks in bloom or autumn colours. Even winter in Berlin has its charm – especially in December, when the city lights up with festive decorations and hosts some of the best Christmas markets in Europe. There’s so much to do in Berlin in every season.
Travel insurance
Before exploring Berlin, make sure your travel insurance is sorted. Whether you’re cycling through the city, visiting museums, or enjoying the nightlife, it’s good to be covered in case of delays, cancellations, or medical issues. I recommend checking out Visitors Coverage for easy, reliable options – better safe than sorry!
Book your accommodation – Where to stay in Berlin
Berlin has loads of great neighbourhoods to stay in, depending on your vibe.
Mitte is the best area to stay in Berlin for first-time visitors. It’s right in the heart of the city and close to many top attractions like Museum Island, Brandenburg Gate, and Alexanderplatz. It’s super convenient, but also one of the more expensive areas
Best budget hotel: MEININGER Hotel Berlin Mitte
Best luxury hotel: Hotel Adlon Kempinski Berlin
Best family friendly hotel : The Circus Hotel
Prenzlauer Berg was actually the first neighbourhood I lived in when I moved to Berlin! It’s a calm, leafy area with a relaxed vibe, great for families or anyone who wants to stay somewhere a bit quieter.
Best budget hotel: Hotel Transit Loft
Best luxury hotel: Hotel Oderberger
Best family friendly hotel: Victor’s Residenz-Hotel Berlin Mitte
Kreuzberg is Berlin’s cool, edgy side. It’s the best area to stay in Berlin for nightlife, with underground bars, quirky clubs, street art, and a multicultural food scene. If you’re into late nights and creative energy, this is your spot.
Best budget hotel: Acama Hotel & Hostel Kreuzberg
Best luxury hotel: Orania.Berlin
Best family friendly hotel: Hotel the YARD
Charlottenburg-Wilmersdorf offers a more classic Berlin feel. It’s great for shopping (hello, Kurfürstendamm!) and also ideal for families or anyone looking for a slightly more elegant, residential vibe. Plus, it’s still super easy to get around from here.
Best budget hotel: B&B Hotel Berlin‑Charlottenburg
Best luxury hotel: Waldorf Astoria
Best family friendly hotel: Adagio Berlin Kurfürstendamm
Upon Arrival
Getting a Sim Card
Staying connected in Berlin is super easy with an eSIM from Airalo. Skip airport SIM shops and pricey roaming – just download the app, choose a plan, and you’re online the moment you land. It’s affordable, quick, and perfect for travellers.
Navigating the City
Berlin’s public transport is super easy and efficient, divided into three zones: A (central), B, and C (outer areas like Potsdam and BER Airport).
Before hopping on any U-Bahn, S-Bahn, bus, or tram, make sure to buy and validate your ticket – you can get them from machines (with multiple languages) or from bus drivers. Without validation, you risk a hefty fine.
Here are some key ticket prices for zones A-B (2025):
- Single ticket (Einzelticket): €3.20, valid 2 hours
- Short trip (Kurzfahrstrecke): €2.00, up to 3 stops on U-Bahn/S-Bahn
- Day ticket (Tageskarte): €9.00, valid until 3am next day
- 7-day ticket: €43.00
I highly recommend to download the app CityMapper so you know where to go
You can also get the Berlin CityTourCard or the Berlin WelcomeCard which offer unlimited transport as well as discounts and deals with partnering tourist and cultural attractions such as museums, shops and bars. Just be sure you will be taking full advantage of the perks and discounts of these cards!
Berlin is super bike-friendly, with rentals available from about €10/day. Exploring the city on two wheels is a local favourite and a fun way to see the sights.
Getting to your hotel from the airport
Getting from BER Airport to the city is super easy. You can hop on the S-Bahn or a regional train – both will take you straight into central Berlin. Just make sure to buy an ABC zone ticket (since the airport is in zone C) and validate it before boarding. The ride takes around 30–40 minutes and trains run frequently. If you rather travel by car you can pre book your transfer on Welcome Pickups, Kiwi Taxi or Holiday Taxis
Must-See Attractions in Berlin
Berlin is a city full of contrasts – famous landmarks mixed with edgy neighbourhoods and local gems. Sure, sights like the Brandenburg Gate or East Side Gallery are must-sees, but I also love just strolling through Kreuzberg or hanging out in laid-back Prenzlauer Berg with a coffee in hand.
If you’re up for more than just sightseeing, check out tours on GetYourGuide or Viator – bike rides, food tours, street art walks, there’s loads to choose from. Or go your own way with a self-guided audio tour from WeGoTrip – perfect if you like exploring at your own pace without missing the story behind the place.
Brandenburg Gate – You simply can’t visit Berlin without stopping by the iconic Brandenburg Gate. It’s one of the city’s most famous landmarks and totally lives up to the hype. Yes, it’s a major tourist spot, but snapping a quick selfie or a cute portrait here is basically a rite of passage. I mean, did you even go to Berlin if you don’t have a photo in front of it? Bonus: you can actually walk right underneath it, which makes it feel even more special in person.
The Berlin Wall – The Berlin Wall may have fallen in 1989, but you can still find original pieces across the city. The most famous stretch is the East Side Gallery, where artists turned the once-divisive wall into a colourful open-air gallery filled with powerful murals. Some reflect the pain of the past, others focus on hope and unity. It’s one of the most meaningful places to visit in Berlin – and if you look closely, you’ll spot other remnants too, like guard towers and hidden fragments scattered around the city.
Fernsehturm – one of Berlin’s most iconic symbols and a tower you can spot from almost anywhere in the city. While it might not look like much from the outside at first glance, it’s actually a fascinating piece of architecture. Built in the 1960s in East Berlin, its sleek, futuristic design was meant to showcase the city’s progress and modern spirit. Standing tall at 368 meters, it’s the tallest structure in Germany and dominates Berlin’s skyline with its instantly recognisable sphere near the top.
The Jewish Memorial – The Holocaust Memorial is a powerful and sobering place, marked by over 2,711 concrete slabs spread across a sloping field. Beneath it lies an underground museum that adds even more depth to the experience. It’s not the easiest visit emotionally, but it’s absolutely one everyone should see at least once—it really makes you pause and reflect on history in a way that few places can.
Potsdamer Platz – one of Berlin’s most modern spots – home to the eye-catching Sony Center with its glowing glass roof that looks amazing at night. It’s a fun place to wander around, grab dinner or drinks, or even catch a movie (just make sure to book your seat online – this isn’t your typical cinema). If you’re feeling lucky, there’s also a casino nearby, perfect for a little thrill before heading out to explore Berlin’s nightlife.
Museum Island – Sitting right on the Spree River, Museum Island is home to five incredible museums – including the Pergamon and Bode – which are absolute must-visits for art and history lovers. If you’re visiting in spring or summer, don’t miss the lively flea markets that pop up around the island, adding even more charm to this cultural hotspot.
Berliner Dom (Berlin Cathedral) – a stunning Italian Renaissance-style church that pulls triple duty – it’s a place of worship, a museum, and a concert hall all rolled into one. Inside, you’ll find beautiful mosaics, grand architecture, and a fascinating crypt where members of the former royal family are buried
Reichstag – it is more than just a historic building – it’s the beating heart of Germany’s government. When you visit, take your time to wander around and soak in the atmosphere. The real highlight is the glass dome on top, a stunning 360-degree viewpoint where you can admire Berlin’s skyline while learning about the city’s past and present. Just a heads up: you’ll be walking quite a bit, so wear comfy shoes and book your visit in advance to make the most of this unique experience.
Checkpoint Charlie – chances are you’ve seen that famous photo of a soldier at Checkpoint Charlie, and now it’s one of Berlin’s top tourist spots. Walking freely between what used to be East and West Berlin here is a pretty unique feeling. The history still feels alive, and it’s definitely a great place to snap some iconic photos and soak up a bit of the city’s divided past.
Tiergarten & Berlin Zoo – Berlin’s Tiergarten is like the city’s version of Central Park – a huge green oasis right in the middle of the hustle and bustle. While you’re there, definitely check out the Berlin Zoo, Germany’s oldest, home to over 20,500 animals. The zoo’s layout lets you get pretty close to many of the animals, making it a fun and memorable visit whether you’re travelling solo, as a couple, or with family.
Gendarmenmarkt – for me, Gendarmenmarkt is hands down one of the most beautiful spots in all of Germany. It’s where the stunning French Cathedral and German Cathedral face off, with the impressive concert house right in the middle. It’s a perfect place to wander, soak up the architecture, and maybe stop for a coffee or a drink while taking it all in.
Charlottenburg Palace – Germany is full of beautiful castles, but Charlottenburg Palace truly stands out. This royal palace, with its stunning baroque and rococo architecture, gorgeous gardens, and elegant interiors, gives you a real taste of Berlin’s regal past. It’s the perfect spot for a leisurely stroll or to soak up some history away from the city buzz.
Tempelhof Airport – I have a thing for airports – especially ones where you can have a BBQ right on the runway! That’s exactly what makes Tempelhof Airport so unique. Though it’s no longer in operation, this former airport has been transformed into a huge open park where locals gather to picnic, cycle, and yes, even grill. The old terminal buildings now host parties, events, and even a nightclub. Rent a bike and cruise along the smooth runways – it’s a totally different kind of Berlin experience you won’t want to miss.
Olympic Stadium – its a historic spot, originally built for the 1936 Olympics. Today, it’s home to Hertha BSC Berlin and hosts all kinds of events – from football matches to concerts.
Here are some of my favourite MUST–DO tours in Berlin :
Shopping
Berlin has something for every kind of shopper. If you’re after big brands and a bit of luxury, head to Kurfürstendamm (locals call it Ku’damm) where you can find lots of popular shops like Zara, H&M, C&A and more, or pop into KaDeWe – Europe’s second-largest department store. It’s a bit fancy but worth a look, especially the food hall at the top!
If you’re more into unique finds or vintage gems, check out the boutiques around Hackescher Markt or stroll through Prenzlauer Berg and Friedrichshain – you can find lots of small, independent shops and secondhand stores with real character.
And if you’re in Berlin on a Sunday, don’t miss Mauerpark Flea Market. It’s a total vibe – live music, street food, and loads of stalls where you can score everything from old records to handmade jewellery.
Eating Like a Local
Berlin’s food scene is a perfect mix of casual, tasty eats and diverse flavours. You really can’t go wrong with a kebab here – honestly, I don’t think you can get a bad one! I used to have a favourite spot near Hackescher Markt, but it sadly closed down. If you know any great kebab places, let me know in the comments!
If burgers are your thing, Burgermeister serves up some of the best in the city!
For classic German food and good beer, you can’t miss Hofbräu – it’s lively, authentic, and perfect if you want to soak up some traditional vibes with a cold one in hand.
If you’re after fried chicken, Henne is hands down the best in Berlin – crispy, juicy, and totally worth tracking down.
Markets like Markthalle Neun in Kreuzberg are a food lover’s dream, especially on street food Thursdays. Plus, Berlin is amazing for vegans too, with tons of plant-based options from stalls to sit-down restaurants.
And don’t forget the bakeries! Grab a fresh pretzel or a sweet Franzbrötchen to keep you going. Brunch spots in Prenzlauer Berg and Neukölln are great for laid-back mornings with good coffee and avo toast.
I am text block. Click edit button to change this text. Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetur adipiscing elit. Ut elit tellus, luctus nec ullamcorper mattis, pulvinar dapibus leo.
Berlin truly is one of Europe’s most exciting cities to visit. Whether you’re planning a quick weekend getaway or a longer adventure, this Berlin travel guide has everything you need to explore like a local. Use this guide to plan your perfect Berlin itinerary – including the best things to do in Berlin, where to stay, how to get around, and the top places to eat like a local.
Thanks for reading! If you have any questions about travelling to Berlin, or want to share your own tips and favourite spots, drop a comment below. Happy travels and enjoy your time discovering Berlin – one of the best European cities for history, culture, food, and unforgettable memories.
