Sightseeing in Berlin: The 5 most important attractions

Bicycling along the wall — visitberlin, photo: Philip Koschel

Berlin – a cultural capital in constant flux

One of Europe’s most popular capitals, Berlin is a destination beloved of tourists from around the world. One reason is the city’s tumultuous history. In addition, it offers an incomparably rich and diverse range of cultural activities.

The city’s multifaceted past is reflected in its numerous historic buildings and sites. Berlin offers some very moving insights into German and European history. Checkpoint Charlie is one of Berlin’s most popular museums, allowing visitors to experience the history of the Berlin Wall and the individual fates tied up with it at first hand.

Inspired by its history and by artists of every type, Berlin offers an unparalleled cultural spectrum. More than 175 museums are the perfect place to spend a few happy hours gazing in wonder at the countless exhibits. Contemporary art is also enjoying a real boom in the city: alongside the museums of modern art, an extremely lively gallery scene showcases the full range of modern architecture, painting, video art and photography.

Visitors to Berlin can enjoy all manner of entertainment at the city’s three opera houses and more than 150 theatres. From cabaret and classic theatre to the famous Berlin State Opera: every conceivable aspect of stagecraft can be experienced in Berlin.

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Brandenburg Gate

Brandenburg Gate is one of Berlin’s best-known landmarks. A national symbol, it is associated with numerous events in the history of Berlin, Germany and Europe. Situated on the border between the former East and West Berlin, it was once a symbol of the city’s division – since reunification it has become a symbol of German unity. The imposing building is located at Pariser Platz, which is surrounded by villas and international embassies. On 31 December, hundreds of thousands of people gather here each year to see in the new year while watching an exciting live show.

Pariser Platz
10117 Berlin

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Berlin Wall Memorial

The division of Germany had a greater impact on Berlin than on any other city. Centrally located, the Berlin Wall Memorial ensures that this era will never be forgotten. The open-air exhibition runs for 1.4 kilometres along the former border strip. On Bernauer Strasse, a section of the original Berlin Wall conveys an impression of the former border fortifications. Information points allow visitors to understand how the Berlin Wall was constructed and what consequences it had for the local population. The victims of Germany’s division are also commemorated here.

Bernauer Straße 111
13355 Berlin

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Berlin TV Tower from street perspective — visitBerlin, photo: mowuestenhagen

Berlin Television Tower

At 368 metres, the Television Tower at Alexanderplatz is Germany’s tallest building and a prominent Berlin landmark. Every year, the viewing platform attracts around one million visitors from all over the world. The Television Tower is one of Germany’s most popular sights. A lift whisks visitors up to the sphere of the tower in just 40 seconds. The viewing platform and “Sphere” restaurant is located right at the top, where visitors can enjoy international and seasonal specialities at an altitude of 207 metres, not to mention an impressive 360° view over the city.

Panoramastraße 1a
10178 Berlin

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Reichstag

Situated at the Platz der Republik, the Reichstag is one of the city’s major sights. Destroyed in the Second World War, it was rebuilt, though initially without the dome. The impressive glass dome was only added later, when the Reichstag was extended to become the modern parliamentary building it is today. The Reichstag has been home to the German Bundestag – the country’s parliament – since 1999, making it one of Germany’s most important political sites. The dome and roof terrace can be visited by prior arrangement.

Platz der Republik 1
11011 Berlin

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Gendarmenmarkt

Situated in the historic centre of Berlin, Gendarmenmarkt is regarded as the city’s most beautiful and exclusive square. In the middle of the square is the former Royal Theatre (now the Konzerthaus Berlin), with the magnificent French Church and German Church buildings marking its southern and northern boundaries. In July, the Classic Open Air concert is held in warm summer weather, while in winter the square plays host to one of the city’s largest and most beautiful Christmas markets. Numerous luxury fashion boutiques and high-class international restaurants are to be found around Gendarmenmarkt.

Gendarmenmarkt
10117 Berlin

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Points of interest for sightseeing

More sightseeing tips at visitBerlin.de