Top 10 Berlin Tourist Attractions

 

There is no such place as Berlin, combining modern buildings with authentic architecture, urban lifestyle with preserved heritage, and bustling streets with vast green spaces. It is the ultimate European destination providing everything that is needed for a great quick getaway or days of extensive exploring. The capital of Germany features numerous world-known landmarks, UNESCO-listed sites, and eventful history, making it a must-visit during any tour to Europe. Browse the list of the main attractions in Berlin before planning your upcoming adventure.

1. Alexanderplatz, Berlin
Alexanderplatz, Berlin

Start your Berlin tour at Alexanderplatz, the beating heart of the city. The ever-bustling site boasts numerous attractions, such as bars, restaurants, endless shopping opportunities and monuments to admire, including the sky-crossing TV Tower. Other points of interest in the square are the Fountain of Friendship amongst Peoples, also known as Brunnen der Volkerfreundschaft, and the World Clock. In addition to being the largest square in the capital of Germany, Alexanderplatz is also one of the most-visited ones in entire Europe.

2. The Berlin Cathedral, Berlin
Berlin Cathedral, Berlin

Decorating the skyline of the city, the Berlin Cathedral, also known as Berliner Dom, is awe-inspiring inside and out. The gem of neo-classical architecture was built in the 19th century by the architect Karl Friedrich Schinkel, however, Wilhelm III commissioned it to be redecorated by Julius Carl Raschdorff later on. The lavish interior of the cathedral is undoubtedly worth exploring as well. It features artwork made of marble, intricate ornamentation, an organ of 7000 pipes, and a large dome reaching the height of 114 meters (374 ft).

3. The Brandenburg Gate, Berlin
Brandenburg Gate

Possibly the most iconic landmark in Germany and the symbol of Berlin, the Brandenburg Gate is a must-see for any traveler in Europe. Going back to the late 18th century, it is another exceptional example of neo-classical architecture in the city and a one-of-a-kind piece of historical heritage as well. As a matter of fact, it is considered to be the symbol of the reunited city after the fall of the Berlin Wall, making it not only marvelous to look at but significant to the residents as well. Nowadays it is one of the most visited monuments in Berlin.

4. Reichstag, Berlin
Reichstag, Berlin

The Parliament of the Federal Republic of Germany, also known as Reichstag, is definitely one of the main attractions in Berlin, Germany. It is not only the seat of the Parliament but a great location to explore the city as well, providing the possibility to get acquainted with its history and admire the landscapes. The best way to do that is by visiting the cupola, designed by Norman Foster, where you can find a display of numerous historical documents and marvel at astonishing views over Berlin.

5. East Side Gallery, Berlin
East Side Gallery, Berlin Wall

East Side Gallery in Berlin is actually the longest open-air gallery in the world. Bearing the status of a protected memorial, the gallery is part of the original Berlin Wall situated along the Spree River. The section of the concrete border was built in 1975 and became a gallery one year after the demolition of the Berlin Wall. It took 118 artists from over twenty countries to make the 1.3 kilometer-long (0.8 mi) barrier come to life with images including the "Trabant Breaking Through the Wall" and the mural called "My God, Help Me to Survive This Deadly Love".

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6. The Berlin Television Tower, Berlin
Berlin Television Tower

Visit the sky-high TV Tower in Berlin for some awe-inspiring 360-degree views over the capital of Germany. The 368-meter (1207 ft) construction dates back to 1969 and features not only a viewing platform but a rotating restaurant for your leisurely time as well. There is an express elevator taking you to the top floor in less than a minute and display panels providing information on the sites seen from above. Berlin's TV Tower is actually the tallest building in the city, making it an exceptional sightseeing experience without a doubt.

7. Memorial to the Murdered Jews of Europe, Berlin
Memorial to the Murdered Jews of Europe

One of the most significant monuments marking the cruelties of history, the Memorial to the Murdered Jews of Europe, is a must-visit in Berlin, Germany. Designed by the architect Peter Eisenmann, it consists of 2711 blocks, each unique and shaped like no other, and features uneven paths between the slabs creating a feeling of uncertainty, as the monument is set to be experienced rather than looked at. Make sure to also visit the underground information center providing displays with additional information on historical events and the monument itself.

8. The Treptower Park, Berlin
Treptower Park

Situated near the city center of Berlin, Treptower Park is the perfect location for leisurely activities of locals and visitors likewise. It features vast green fields for outdoor sports enthusiasts and those looking for a nice spot to have a picnic, as well as a riverfront to sunbathe or enjoy a scenic boat ride. The extensive park also houses the imposing Soviet War Memorial, boasting numerous statues and monuments to commemorate the Soviet soldiers fallen in the Battle of Berlin during World War II.

9. Checkpoint Charlie, Berlin
Checkpoint Charlie

Marking the location of a former border crossing between East and West Berlin, Checkpoint Charlie nowadays stands as a testimony to its divided past. Even though several checkpoints were created in the city, Checkpoint Charlie was considered to be the main one as it was the only way for diplomats, journalists, and non-German residents to enter East Berlin. The site is a must-visit in Berlin, featuring not only the booth and soldiers but also the iconic sign "You Are Leaving The American Sector" in four languages, German, Russian, English, and French as well.

10. The Museum Island, Berlin
Museum Island

Famous for exceptional pieces of artwork, the Museum Island in Berlin is undoubtedly one of the most popular points of interest in the city. Dating back to the 19th century, it is situated by the Spree River and houses numerous significant exhibits and constructions including the iconic bust of Nefertiti and the oldest museum in Germany, the neoclassical Altes Museum. The UNESCO-listed site actually consists of five renowned museums, Altes Museum, Neues Museum, Old National Gallery, Bode Museum, and Pergamon Museum.