Berlin might have a reputation for being gritty and having a wild party scene, but the city has way more going on than just that. You’ve got places like the East Side Gallery reminding you of the city’s past, and at the same time, you can spend a sunny afternoon belting out karaoke at Mauerpark. What most people know about Berlin is only part of it, the rest is waiting to be explored.
If you’re looking for the top things to do in Berlin, Germany, here’s the best of what the city has to offer.
Top 10 Things to Do in Berlin
Check Out the East Side Gallery
We’re starting our list of Berlin’s things to do with the East Side Gallery. This old 1.3 km stretch was part of the Berlin Wall, but it has since been transformed into the world’s largest open-air gallery. Here, you’ll find striking artwork created by 118 artists from 21 countries, depicting both life at the time and hopes for the future.
There’s no entry fee, so visitors are free to walk along and spend as much time as they like.
Witness Brandenburg Gate
You can’t visit Berlin without seeing the Brandenburg Gate. Built between 1788 and 1791, it’s a neoclassical structure that has stood the test of time, surviving both World War I and World War II, and later standing within the Soviet sector during the Berlin Wall era. Today, it serves as a powerful symbol of Berlin’s reunification.
Brandenburg Gate is best experienced with a local guide who can share its rich history, although you’re free to explore it by yourself after taking a Berlin Airport taxi.
Walk Around the Memorial to the Murdered Jews of Europe
Near the Brandenburg Gate, you’ll find the Memorial to the Murdered Jews of Europe. Established to commemorate the victims of the Holocaust, the site spans 19,000 square meters with 2,710 concrete columns rising across the area, serving as a somber reminder of the harrowing events of that time.
If you’re coming with people, ensure to select a meeting point afterwards, as it’s easy to get lost amidst the blocks.
Join Berliners for Some Outdoor Karaoke at Mauerpark
A unique thing to do in Berlin on Sundays is to attend an outdoor karaoke session at Mauerpark. What started as a small session by a guy named Joe Hatchiban in 2009 has grown into a weekly event where anyone can come and sing. From 15:00 every Sunday, the stage is set for people to belt out their favorite beats in front of a crowd. Not confident enough? Still come and watch everyone else do their thing.
Just be aware, though, that when the weather is poor, karaoke might be canceled. Check the conditions yourself before heading out.
Go Underground at Berliner Unterwelten
Berliner Unterwelten is one of the most unusual things to do in Berlin. This former bunker sheltered many people during intense bombing raids on the city in World War II, and today it’s open for visitors to experience what life was like back then. The site has remained largely untouched since the war, with fascinating artifacts left behind, making it an interesting thing to do with kids in Berlin and for history buffs.
It’s best to purchase tickets in advance through Berliner Unterwelten’s official website, as they cannot be bought at the entrance.
Step Back in Time at Museum Island
When traveling with family, things to do in Berlin that suit all ages can be tricky to find, but Museum Island delivers. Made up of five fascinating museums, this UNESCO World Heritage Site has it all.
Experience archaeological finds at the Pergamon Museum, admire art from the Byzantine period at the Bode Museum, and marvel at fabulous paintings at Alte Nationalgalerie. One of the best things to do in Berlin with kids who love Ancient Egypt is to visit the Neues Museum, which has a large collection of artifacts from this time. Fans of classical antiquity should focus their attention on the Altes Museum.
Catch a View From the Top of the TV Tower
Witness Berlin from above on the TV Tower. Reach new heights 203 meters above ground level in the observation deck and take in some notable landmarks, including the Reichstag, Brandenburg Gate, and more.
With multiple ticket options available, you can tailor the experience to your liking. Keep things simple with the standard entry passes or book in for drinks at the Spree bar, watching the sun go down with a drink in hand, one of the many fun things to do in Berlin for young adults.
Tour the Reichstag Building
The Reichstag Building is one of Berlin’s most important landmarks, serving as the seat of the German Parliament. It’s recognized for its striking glass dome and ornate facade, which can be admired from the lawn outside, a favorite spot among Berliners to relax on a warm summer’s day.
Visitors can access the dome and roof terrace of the Reichstag, but prior registration is required. This must be done in advance through the official website.
Have a Look at the Different Time Zones in Alexanderplatz
Alexanderplatz is one of the city’s liveliest spots, always buzzing with activity, and it offers a range of fun things to do in Berlin, Germany. But the main attraction that draws most people here is the World Clock, a big cylinder divided into 24 sections, each showing a different time zone around the globe. It’s a fun way for travelers to check the time back in their home country while standing in the heart of Berlin.
Many people also use this spot as a meeting point when coming from Berlin Airport to the city center, so if you’re linking up with friends, it’s a great place to choose.
Cross Checkpoint Charlie
As we wrap up our list of the top ten things to do in Berlin, we couldn’t end it without mentioning Checkpoint Charlie. Once a border crossing between East and West Berlin during the Cold War, it has been reconstructed to reflect the checkpoint’s original appearance, with cool features like sandbags and flags. They also have some cool souvenir shops around the area, featuring interesting items such as old newspapers from that era.
That’s It for Our List of Things to Do in Berlin
This concludes our guide to the top things to do in Berlin. Whether you’re chasing history, fresh air, or family fun, the German capital won’t disappoint.
Frequently asked questions
What should I not miss in Berlin? 
Some of the main attractions you shouldn’t miss in Berlin include the imposing Brandenburg Gate, soaking up the panoramic views from the TV Tower, and walking along the East Side Gallery to see the murals.
What is unique to Berlin?
Berlin has many unique aspects to it, such as its thriving street food scene with dishes like currywurst and doner kebabs taking center stage, as well as its wealth of historical attractions, like the Brandenburg Gate and East Side Gallery.
What to do in Berlin non-touristy?
There are a lot of non-touristy things to do in Berlin, like hanging out in the hip neighborhoods such as Friedrichshain and going for a dip with locals at the public bath of Badeschiff.
What to do in Berlin for the first time?
In Berlin, Germany, the things to do for first-timers include stepping across Checkpoint Charlie, getting your photo taken at Brandenburg Gate, and walking through the Memorial to the Murdered Jews of Europe.
What is the most visited place in Berlin?
Berlin has plenty of popular spots, but Alexanderplatz is the city’s true hub of activity and is known as the most visited place.
