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Top 11 Things to Do in Berlin in 2026 | Berlin Recommended Attractions | Trip.com

Top 11 Things to Do in Berlin in 2026 | Berlin Recommended Attractions | Trip.com

1.Experience Berlin's Iconic Landmarks

Brandenburg GateCharlottenburg Palace

Explore Berlin’s rich history with visits to the Brandenburg Gate, Charlottenburg Palace, and the Reichstag Building. Take time to visit the Holocaust Memorial (officially the Memorial to the Murdered Jews of Europe), a striking and solemn tribute to the millions of Jewish lives lost during the Holocaust.

Recommended attraction

Brandenburg Gate

Ticket price:Free entry
Suggested tour duration:0.5–1 hour
Address:Pariser Platz, 10117 Berlin, Germany
小羊咩咩1969小羊咩咩1969:“Brandenburg Gate in Germany, due to its special status in Berlin and even Germany, has become the venue for many celebrations in Germany. On December 31st every year, an open-air New Year's Eve party is held here. At that time, the square and the street are crowded with people, and grand live performances are held on the stage to add to the fun. People welcome the arrival of the new year together with the fireworks tour at midnight.”

Charlottenburg Palace

Suggested tour duration:2–3 hours
Address:Spandauer Damm 10-22, 14059 Berlin, Germany
_TI***ya_TI***ya:“Charlottenburg Palace is beautifully preserved and gives you a real sense of Prussian royal life. The interiors are elegant and richly decorated, and the overall layout of the visitor route is well organized, making it easy to follow the story of the palace as you move from one room to the next. The gardens are also very pleasant for a walk, especially in good weather.One important tip: tickets can sell out quickly, and timed entry is strictly managed. I highly recommend purchasing tickets in advance to ensure a smooth visit and the best experience.”

Reichstag Building

Ticket price:Free entry
Suggested tour duration:1–2 hours
Address:Platz der Republik 1, 11011 Berlin, Germany
LizzieyumLizzieyum:“nice place with free entry. pre booking online is a must, opens one month before”

Memorial to the Murdered Jews of Europe

Ticket price:Free entry
Suggested tour duration:1–2 hours
Address:Cora-Berliner-Straße 1, 10117 Berlin, Germany
长空一残月🌙长空一残月🌙:“Well worth a visit. For what it is, at least. Near the Brandenburg Gate. We come to Berlin every year for business in late January/early February. I have wandered around this memorial a few times. I found this draft which I have not yet finished and thought I should post it.”

Memorial to the Murdered Jews of Europe

Ticket price:Free entry
Suggested tour duration:1–2 hours
Address:Cora-Berliner-Straße 1, 10117 Berlin, Germany
长空一残月🌙长空一残月🌙:“Well worth a visit. For what it is, at least. Near the Brandenburg Gate. We come to Berlin every year for business in late January/early February. I have wandered around this memorial a few times. I found this draft which I have not yet finished and thought I should post it.”
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2.Explore Berlin's Museums

Museum IslandPergamonmuseum

Spend a day on Museum Island, home to the Pergamon Museum, Altes Museum, and Neues Museum, each offering unique art and historical exhibits.

Recommended attraction

Museum Island

Ticket price:Free entry
Suggested tour duration:1 day
Address:Berlin, Germany
MelsidaMelsida:“Museum Island in Berlin is a UNESCO World Heritage site and a cultural treasure trove. Located in the heart of the city, it’s home to five world-class museums, including the Pergamon Museum and the Altes Museum. The island offers a mix of art, archaeology, and history, making it a must-visit for culture lovers. The architecture is stunning, and it’s a perfect spot to explore Berlin's rich history. Expect crowds, especially during peak tourist seasons, but the exhibits are well worth it.”

Pergamonmuseum

Ticket price:From £11.55
Suggested tour duration:2 hours
Address:Bodestraße 1-3, 10178 Berlin, Germany
长空一残月🌙长空一残月🌙:“Although the Pergamon Altar is not on display right now (but you can see the exhibits and the 360-degree display in the so-called panorama), there simply aren't enough superlatives to describe this incredible museum. Run while you can, because they're closing it at the end of October for renovations that will last 13 years.”

Altes Museum

Ticket price:From £12.15
Suggested tour duration:2 hours
Address:Bodestraße 1-3, 10178 Berlin, Germany
长空一残月🌙长空一残月🌙:“We stumbled upon Museum Island as we were walking to the train station to return to our ship. We had seen it on a map but had no idea what it was. The museums and Berlin Cathedral were impressive. Definitely recommend a visit here.”

Neues Museum

Ticket price:From £12.14
Suggested tour duration:2–3 hours
Address:Bodestraße 1-3, 10178 Berlin, Germany
Shasa48Shasa48:“Well worth the visit. If you like history this is the place for you. From Egyptian history to Roman history it’s a great way to learn for kids. Nice to visit on a rainy and cold day in Berlin. Some very famous pieces can be found in this museum, and it’s great to see them from a close perspective.”
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3.Experience the Berlin Wall Memorial

Berlin Wall MemorialEast Side Gallery

Visit the Berlin Wall Memorial and East Side Gallery to understand the city's divided past, featuring murals by international artists.

Recommended attraction

Berlin Wall Memorial

Ticket price:Free entry
Suggested tour duration:1 hour
Address:Bernauer Str. 111, 13355 Berlin, Germany
Miss TravelMiss Travel:“So many we can see at Berlin Wall..For whom that interest in history.This is a good place for you to read all about Nazi’s”

East Side Gallery

Ticket price:Free entry
Suggested tour duration:2–3 hours
Address:Mühlenstraße, 10243 Berlin, Germany
Queen 1Queen 1:“You can see the meanings expressed by different authors on the Berlin Wall at once! Feeling, Berlin's topical work! Going at midnight is a very good way to travel😊”

4.Experience Berlin's Vibrant Street Art Scene

KreuzbergVolkspark Friedrichshain

Explore Berlin's vibrant street art in neighborhoods like Kreuzberg and Friedrichshain, featuring colorful murals and thought-provoking graffiti.

Recommended attraction

Kreuzberg

Suggested tour duration:0.5–1 day
Address:Berlin-Friedrichshain-Kreuzberg, Germany
M32***23M32***23:“Kreuzberg is a very mature district, with a clear distinction between the living area and the commercial area. There is a post office, a town hall and a small museum and science museum on the main street. It is a great travel experience.”

Volkspark Friedrichshain

Address:10249 Berlin, Germany

5.Visit a Traditional German Beer Hall

Experience local beer culture at a traditional beer hall, enjoying a pint of German beer in a lively atmosphere.

6.Explore Berlin's Theaters

Berlin PhilharmonicDeutsches Theater

Catch a performance at the Berlin Philharmonic or Deutsches Theater, offering a range of plays and concerts from classic to contemporary.

Recommended attraction

Berlin Philharmonic

Suggested tour duration:1 hour
Address:Herbert-von-Karajan-Straße 1, 10785 Berlin, Germany
suifeng2019suifeng2019:“The Berlin Philharmonic is the world's top symphony orchestra. Under the guidance of famous conductors such as Nikisch and Karajan, the orchestra has always maintained a first-class standard. There are certain dress requirements for attending such concerts, and generally you are required to enter the venue in advance.”

Deutsches Theater

Address:Schumannstraße 13A, 10117 Berlin, Germany

7.Join the Carnival of Cultures

Experience the vibrant Carnival of Cultures in May, celebrating Berlin's multicultural diversity with parades, music, and food.

8.Savor Berlin's Culinary Delights

Indulge in Berlin's cuisine with dishes like Crispy pork knuckle, Curried sausage and Potato dishes, and explore the city's diverse food scene. Visit local cafes to enjoy expertly brewed coffee and delicious pastries.

9.Find Treasures at Mauerpark Flea Market

Mauerpark

Experience Berlin's vibrant flea market culture at Mauerpark, browsing vintage clothing, antiques, and enjoying live music.

Recommended attraction

Mauerpark

Suggested tour duration:2–3 hours
Address:Bernauer Str. 63, 13355 Berlin, Germany
Hala ElhuseinyHala Elhuseiny:“it’s very great and I recommend visiting it at Sunday many activities”

10.Capture the Beauty of the Brandenburg Gate at Sunset

Brandenburg Gate

Capture stunning photos of the Brandenburg Gate at sunset, offering a picturesque backdrop for memorable travel photos.

Recommended attraction

Brandenburg Gate

Ticket price:Free entry
Suggested tour duration:0.5–1 hour
Address:Pariser Platz, 10117 Berlin, Germany
小羊咩咩1969小羊咩咩1969:“Brandenburg Gate in Germany, due to its special status in Berlin and even Germany, has become the venue for many celebrations in Germany. On December 31st every year, an open-air New Year's Eve party is held here. At that time, the square and the street are crowded with people, and grand live performances are held on the stage to add to the fun. People welcome the arrival of the new year together with the fireworks tour at midnight.”

11.Take a Scenic Boat Tour

Spree

Enjoy a scenic boat tour on the Spree River, admiring Berlin's landmarks and green spaces from the water.

Recommended attraction

Spree

Ticket price:Free entry
Suggested tour duration:1–3 hours
Address:Germany
E22***58E22***58:“The Spree River is the mother river of Berlin. Every ancient city has a mother river, and Berlin is no exception. There are many historic buildings on both sides of the river. If you have time to take a cruise, you can slowly appreciate the city along the river. The river passes by the famous Oberbaum Bridge, East Side Gallery, etc. There is also the headquarters building of Universal Music in Berlin nearby. The first floor is open to the public free of charge. You can also visit it and satisfy your celebrity addiction.”
Local Guides·Berlin

Berlin Brief Guide

Berlin Must-try local experiences

Berlin Must-see Attractions

Berlin Food Guide

Berlin Transportation

Berlin Where to Stay

Berlin Best Time to Visit

Berlin Travel Tips

Berlin Useful Guide

Berlin: FAQ

What's the most popular attractions in Berlin?

Here are the best places to visit in Berlin, including: Berlin Cathedral,Parliament Building,Brandenburg Gate

What is the best season to visit Berlin?

It is best to go to the dry season in the middle of the Spring Festival to avoid the rainy season at the end of the year; it is best to check whether it is rainy or not before going; it must be in the evening time, you can choose between 8:00 and 10:00. When it is black.

Berlin Local Travel Guide 2026

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Berlin Brief Guide

Berlin is full of history and things to see, from the Berlin Wall to lively spots like street food markets and nightclubs. Street art and cozy cafes add to its creative energy, making every corner feel alive. This guide makes your visit simple, covering key sights and local tips.

Berlin Must-try local experiences

1. Experience Berlin's Iconic Landmarks Berlin's landmarks blend triumph, tragedy, and resilience, tracing the city's pivotal history through grand sites. Stand at the Brandenburg Gate, a neoclassical symbol of unity rebuilt after WWII, where Cold War echoes linger. Ascend the Reichstag's glass dome for free panoramic views of German democracy in action. Stroll Charlottenburg Palace's baroque halls and lush gardens for a taste of royal splendor. End at the Holocaust Memorial, its concrete slabs evoking the six million lives lost in a haunting field of reflection. 2. Explore Berlin's Museums Museum Island, a UNESCO gem on the Spree, packs millennia of art and history into one river-bound cluster. Marvel at the Pergamon Museum's ancient Ishtar Gate and Pergamon Altar, vivid portals to Babylon's lost empires. Gaze at Nefertiti's iconic bust in the Neues Museum amid Egyptian treasures. Discover Prussian gems from Greek vases to Renaissance works in the Altes Museum's soaring rotunda. Combo tickets make this cultural marathon accessible and awe-inspiring. 3. Experience the Berlin Wall Memorial The Berlin Wall Memorial preserves a raw kilometer of the Cold War divide, recounting 28 years of separation through exhibits and ruins. Walk Bernauer Strasse's open-air path past watchtowers and escape stories that grip the heart. Admire the East Side Gallery's 100+ murals, from kissing leaders to defiant faces, turning concrete into a freedom canvas. This free site educates and evokes, highlighting unity's hard-won fragility. It's a poignant must for understanding Berlin's divided soul. 4. Experience Berlin's Vibrant Street Art Scene Berlin's street art rebels in Kreuzberg and Friedrichshain, transforming alleys into provocative galleries of color and critique. Hunt Haus Schwarzenberg's hidden courtyards for Blu's satirical stencils on migration and society. Spot Victor Ash's surreal Cosmonaut mural in Kreuzberg, a dreamer amid urban grit. Explore RAW Gelände's evolving walls of beasts and slogans, often synced with club beats. Self-guided or toured, this scene captures Berlin's edgy reinvention. 5. Visit a Traditional German Beer Hall Berlin's beer halls channel Bavarian cheer with a local twist, fostering communal toasts in lively, leafy settings. At Prater Garten, Berlin's oldest since 1837, enjoy shade under chestnuts, accompanied by pretzels and crisp lagers. Dive into Hofbräu Wirtshaus's massive space for Munich brews and schnitzel amid lederhosen festivity. Cozy up at Augustiner-Keller's vaulted cellars for unpasteurized helles and local chats. These spots embody Gemütlichkeit, blending suds with Berlin's warm social pulse. 6. Explore Berlin's Theaters Berlin's theaters fuse classical depth with avant-garde fire, staging nights that stir the spirit. Hear Kirill Petrenko conduct Beethoven at the Berlin Philharmonic's flawless Philharmonie. Witness Ibsen revivals or bold plays at the opulent Deutsches Theater. Catch experimental multimedia at Schaubühne's repurposed factory. From opera to drama, these venues pulse with Berlin's innovative cultural heartbeat. 7. Join the Carnival of Cultures Berlin's Carnival of Cultures explodes in early June, a global rhythm fest honoring 190+ nationalities with drums and dances. The 2026 edition is scheduled for May 22nd to May 25th, celebrating German multiculturalism over the Whitsun bank holiday weekend with a vibrant street parade, live music, food stalls, and performances in the Kreuzberg district, highlighting diversity. This vibrant bash embodies Berlin's inclusive, borderless energy. 8. Savor Berlin's Culinary Delights Berlin's eats mix hearty German roots with immigrant flair, fueling the city from carts to cafes. Crunch into Schweinshaxe—crispy pork knuckle with sauerkraut—at historic Zur Letzten Instanz. Devour currywurst, the post-WWII icon of curry-ketchup sausage and fries, at Curry 36. Fry up Kartoffelpuffer potato pancakes with applesauce for nostalgic comfort. End with apple strudel and pour-over coffee in Kreuzberg, tasting resilience on every flavorful plate. 9. Find Treasures at Mauerpark Flea Market Mauerpark's Sunday flea market, 9 a.m. to 6 p.m., turns ex-no-man's-land into a boho trove of vintage vibes. Rummage stalls for '80s clothes, East German cameras, and eclectic antiques from private sellers. Graze falafel or Berliner doughnuts amid busker tunes under leafy canopies. Spill into afternoon karaoke on the amphitheater stage for crowd-cheered hits. This Prenzlauer Berg ritual blends hunts with spontaneous fun. 10. Capture the Beauty of the Brandenburg Gate at Sunset At sunset, the Brandenburg Gate glows golden, its columns and chariot framing Tiergarten's green for timeless shots. Frame from Pariser Platz with the Reichstag's lit dome adding drama around 8 p.m. in summer. Street performers and cyclists lend lively motion to your backdrop. This vista isn't just pretty—it's a pause amid history's weight. Snap it to bottle Berlin's resilient poetry. 11. Take a Scenic Boat Tour Spree River boat tours reveal Berlin's bridges and greens from a gentle drift, narrated for landmark lore. Launch from Museum Island past Humboldt Forum and Oberbaum's striped towers. Spot bubble artists or kayakers at Schlesisches Tor for urban riparian charm. Choose sunset sails with prosecco for romantic lights on waves. This watery unwind distills the city's eclectic allure.

Berlin Must-see Attractions

Berlin, a city steeped in history and culture, boasts iconic landmarks such as the UNESCO-listed Museum Island, the symbolically significant Brandenburg Gate, the architecturally stunning Berlin Cathedral, the evocative Berlin Wall Memorial, and the towering Berliner Fernsehturm, each offering unique insights into the city's rich past and vibrant present.

Berlin Food Guide

Berlin's food scene is a rich tapestry of traditional flavors and culinary innovation, featuring hearty staples like crispy pork knuckle and rye bread, iconic street food such as currywurst, classic dishes like Kartoffelsalat, and the refreshing tartness of Berliner Weisse beer, all reflecting the city's historical roots and evolving tastes.

Berlin Transportation

Berlin is a major transportation hub with excellent international connections. Travelers can arrive by plane, train, or long-distance bus from across Europe and beyond. By Plane: Berlin Brandenburg Airport (BER) is the city's sole international airport, serving flights from numerous global destinations. The airport has excellent public transit connections to the city center. - Airport Express Train (FEX): The fastest option, taking about 30 minutes to reach Berlin Hauptbahnhof (Central Station). - Regional Trains (RE7, RB14): Also offer quick and frequent service to central Berlin. - S-Bahn (S9): Provides a frequent, slightly slower rail connection to the city center. - Bus (X7, X71): Connects the airport to the U-Bahn (underground) network, taking about 45–55 minutes to reach the central city. By Train: Berlin Hauptbahnhof is a central hub for Germany's high-speed and regional rail network, Deutsche Bahn (DB). It is well-connected to major European cities like Amsterdam, Prague, Vienna, and Copenhagen. By Bus: Long-distance bus services, like FlixBus, offer affordable routes connecting Berlin to other European cities. These buses typically arrive at the central bus station (Zentraler Omnibusbahnhof), which is easily connected to the city's public transport network.

Berlin Where to Stay

Berlin is a city that has undergone significant transformation, offering a diverse range of accommodation options across its various districts. From the historic center to the more modern outskirts, Berlin's hotel landscape is as varied as the city itself.

Berlin Best Time to Visit

The best time to visit Berlin is during the shoulder seasons of May to June and September to October, when the weather is pleasantly mild and the summer crowds have not yet peaked. For warm, lively weather and outdoor festivals, July and August are ideal, though you should expect larger crowds and higher prices. For budget travel and the festive Christmas markets, late November and December are your best bet, but be prepared for cold temperatures.

Berlin Travel Tips

1. Master public transport tickets and validation Berlin's public transport operates on a trust system, but that doesn't mean you can skip paying. Always validate your ticket - stamp your ticket at the small machines on the platform for U-Bahn and S-Bahn or inside the bus/tram. A plain-clothed inspector can fine you heavily if you don't. 2. Carry cash for smaller purchases and tips Have cash on hand for small cafes, kiosks, local bars, food stands, and flea markets. Tipping is not mandatory but appreciated for good service. A tip of 5–10% is standard in restaurants and can be rounded up when paying. 3. Book major attractions and tours in advance For popular attractions like the Reichstag Building and the TV Tower, booking in advance is essential. During peak season, especially summer, entry tickets and tour slots can sell out quickly. 4. Stay safe from pickpockets in crowded areas As with any major city, pickpocketing is a risk, particularly in crowded tourist hotspots. Keep bags and wallets secure, especially in crowded spots like Alexanderplatz or on busy U-Bahn and S-Bahn trains. The German police are generally helpful to foreigners and are the first point of contact if you are robbed or need help. 5. Be cautious when discussing history While younger Berliners may be open to discussing the city's complex 20th-century history, the topic should be approached with sensitivity. Avoid making jokes about sensitive historical periods like the Nazi era, as this is unacceptable. Many Berliners, especially the younger generation, are willing to have a thoughtful conversation if you approach the subject respectfully. 6. Respect pedestrian rules Wait for the green light. Berliners take traffic rules seriously, and crossing the street outside of designated areas (jaywalking) can result in a fine. 7. Be aware of quiet hours In residential areas, quiet hours are generally enforced from 10 p.m. to 6 a.m. to minimize noise disturbance for residents. 8. Respect recycling rules Germany's waste management system is highly organized. Use the color-coded bins for different types of waste: yellow for plastics, blue for paper, and black for residual waste. Follow the system to avoid fines and show respect for the local environmental standards. 9. Beware of bicycle lanes Berlin has extensive bike lanes, often on sidewalks. Stay alert and avoid walking in these lanes to prevent accidents with cyclists, who have the right of way. Look for different paving patterns or markings to identify bike lanes. Treat bike lanes like streets: look both ways before crossing and never stop or walk on them.

Berlin Useful Guide

The official language in Berlin is German, but English is widely spoken and understood, particularly in tourist areas, hotels, and among the city's large international and younger population. While English is widely spoken in central districts and many service-based businesses, visitors should not assume everyone is proficient, especially in less tourist-heavy areas or for official matters. Learning a few basic German phrases is always appreciated and can enhance your experience, though you will generally find it easy to get by speaking only English.

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