Berlin Travel Guide
Berlin can easily lay claim to being one of the most interesting, storied, unique, and exciting cities in the world. A city where history whispers from every corner and creativity thrives in its vibrant, sometimes offbeat, neighborhoods. Planning a trip to the German capital? You'll need time for everything from iconic landmarks, fantastic food, hidden gems, legendary nightlife, and incredible museums … to name a few.
All at once, Berlin manages to cater to couples, kids, cool creatives, curious visitors, and everything in between. From the Brandenburg Gate, a symbol of unity and peace at the heart of the city, to echoes of history along the remnants of the Berlin Wall, there are landmarks and reminders of a divided and difficult past everywhere you go. But dark Berlin is not. Explore vibrant, multicultural neighborhoods like Kreuzberg, Neukölln, and Friedrichshain, where street art tells stories of the city and laughter spills out from sidewalk cafes. There are fun things to do at every turn, especially in summer when river cruises and lake adventures are de rigeur, even for Berliners.
Your Berlin travel guide wouldn't be complete without a nod to its thriving art scene. Berlin's heart beats with creativity, from the East Side Gallery's street art to the world-class exhibits on Museum Island. And when the sun sets, often until it rises again, the city's famous nightlife comes alive. Whether it's techno clubs or cozy bars, there's a spot for every taste.
Ready for the time of your life? Here's everything you need to know.
Insider guides
Berlin in Fall
As summer draws to a close, Berlin transitions into a city that was made to capture the beauty of the fall season. The city's parks bristle with autumnal hues, while many cultural venues in Berlin offer a cozy retreat from the elements. From leisurely strolls through Tiergarten to pumpkin festivals celebrating the harvest season, Berlin offers an array of experiences to suit every traveler. Discover the best things to do in Berlin in fall and the many seasonal activities.
Berlin's best fall activities at a glance
Best way to see fall leaves in Berlin: A stroll through Tiergarten or a boat tour on the Spree River.
Top activities for families visiting Berlin in fall: The Herbstfest at Britzer Garten.
Romantic fall spots for couples in Berlin: Viktoriapark for panoramic city views.
Unique events in Berlin in fall: Festival of Lights, Berlin Art Week, and Berlin Marathon.
Things To Do Outdoors in Berlin
Explore what’s left of the infamous Berlin Wall, take a ferry to a lush island filled with free-roaming peacocks, and discover the remains of a Cold War-era listening station in Berlin, Germany’s capital city. Whether you see the city’s famous landmarks on a bike tour or opt for a relaxing cruise down the Spree River, there are plenty of ways to enjoy the sun while seeing the top sights in Berlin. From open-air art galleries and botanical gardens to lakeshore views, this guide rounds up eight of the best things to do outdoors in Berlin.
Berlin in Winter
From November to February, Berlin brims with festive cheer and cultural highlights. Among the best things to do in Berlin in winter are the famous Christmas markets, like Gendarmenmarkt, where the aroma of mulled wine and roasted almonds fills the air. Then, there’s Winterwelt am Potsdamer Platz, with ice skating, sledding, and food stalls. For art and culture lovers, Museum Island displays everything from ancient artifacts to European masterpieces, while the Berlin International Film Festival showcases the city’s creative side. Whether you’re planning a holiday getaway or a late-year city break, discover all the top things to do in Berlin in winter.
Berlin's best winter activities at a glance
The best places to find winter markets: Gendarmenmarkt and Alexanderplatz host popular Christmas markets with local crafts and seasonal treats.
The top things to do for kids and families visiting Berlin in winter: Explore the Winterwelt am Potsdamer Platz, a festive winter attraction featuring ice skating, a sledding hill, and food stalls.
Unique events in Berlin in winter: Experience the Berlin International Film Festival (Berlinale) in February and the New Year's Eve celebration at Brandenburg Gate.