The 7 top attractions in Berlin

Berlin, the capital of Germany, is a city rich in history, culture, and vibrant energy. From its iconic landmarks to its diverse neighborhoods, Berlin offers a unique blend of old and new. Whether you’re interested in history, art, or simply soaking in the atmosphere, Berlin has something for everyone.

Must-Visit Attractions:

Brandenburg Gate: One of the most famous landmarks in Germany, this neoclassical gate was completed in 1791 after being commissioned by King Frederick William II of Prussia and took three years to build. Since its construction its symbolism has been co-opted both for good and evil purposes (no points guessing by who), but today it is largely seen as a symbol of German and European peace and unity. Visit during the day for great photo opportunities, and it looks particularly stunning at night when illuminated.

Berlin Wall Museum and East Side Gallery: Explore remnants of the Berlin Wall and the East Side Gallery, an outdoor gallery featuring murals painted directly on the remaining sections of the wall. The museum itself goes into great detail about this fascinating period in German history. Friends, neighbours and even family members living in Berlin found themselves cut off from each other by concrete and barbed wire, within days of construction on the wall starting – all due to a clash between superpowers outside of their control. To find out more about the museum and Berlin’s years of partition, visit The Wall Museum – East Side Gallery – Berlin

Museum Island: A UNESCO World Heritage site, Museum Island is home to several world-class museums, including the Pergamon Museum and the Neues Museum. Built from 1830 to 1930, this complex of five museums, plus churches and parks collectively takes up a huge potion of Spree island in the historic heart of Berlin. For more information on Museum Island, visit Museum Island Berlin Berlin: tickets, museums & more | visitBerlin.de

Reichstag Building: Take a guided tour or admire the impressive Neo-Renaissance architecture of the German parliament building. Build between 1884 and 1894, the Reichstag is symbolic of Germany’s historical difficulties with democracy. Built during the heyday of the German Empire, it housed the first German parliaments which at the time were severely limited in their powers – with the Kaiser exercising a great deal of personal authority. This briefly changed after WW1 with the establishment of the Weimar Republic.

Unfortunately, a suspicious fire at the building in 1933 helped fan the flames of Nazism and accent of Adolf Hitler. There was not much need for parliaments after that. WW2 and The Cold War meant the building was unused for its intended purpose and it was not until 1999 – eight years after reunification – that German politicians once again established a parliament in the building. Don’t miss the panoramic views of the city from the glass dome when you visit! For more information, visit German Bundestag – Homepage

Checkpoint Charlie: Visit the one of the most famous relics of the Cold War. The checkpoint and museum, provides insight into the divided history of Berlin during the period following the end of the Second World War in 1945 and reunification in 1991. Designated as the single crossing point (on foot or by car) for foreigners and members of the Allied forces, Checkpoint Charlie has been ferenced in hundreds of books, films and other cultural works about the Cold War. For more information, visit Home – Wall Museum – Museum Checkpoint Charlie (mauermuseum.de)

Berlin Cathedral: Explore the Berliner Dom, a stunning cathedral on Museum Island, known for its impressive architecture and beautiful views of the city from the dome, this museum also houses the Hohenzollern crypt in its basement. This crypt is he final resting places of many members of the dynasty of the same name, which ruled over vast areas of Europe from the middle ages onwards – including Prussia and later the German Empire before WW1 came to an end. For more information, visit Home | Berliner Dom

Tiergarten and Berlin Zoo: Berlin’s largest park, coving 520 acres, Tiergarten is perfect for a leisurely stroll, picnics, or renting a bike. You can also visit the Berlin Zoo located within the park. Opened in 1844 this zoo has approximately 1,380 different species and over 20,200 animals, making it one of the most comprehensive collections in the world. The zoo offers experiences to feed some of the animals as well as talks on the many species it houses. It is well worth a visit. Zoo-Berlin