Must-see sights in Berlin

Berlin is renowned for its impressive historical landmarks and cultural attractions. The Brandenburg Gate, a majestic 18th-century neoclassical monument, marks the entrance to Unter den Linden, the grand boulevard in the heart of the city. Nearby stands the Reichstag, home to the German parliament, featuring its iconic glass dome designed by architect Norman Foster. The East Side Gallery, the longest remaining section of the Berlin Wall, has been transformed into an open-air gallery adorned with colourful murals. History enthusiasts should not miss Checkpoint Charlie, the famous border crossing between East and West Berlin during the Cold War. The Holocaust Memorial and the Topography of Terror also provide powerful insight into the darker chapters of German history.

Getting around Berlin by public transport

Berlin’s public transport system is among the most efficient in Europe, making it easy to explore the city. Operated by BVG, the network includes S-Bahn (urban trains), U-Bahn (metro), trams and buses that connect all districts seamlessly. A day ticket or the popular Berlin WelcomeCard offers unlimited travel and often includes discounts on attractions. The U-Bahn lines link the main sights and neighbourhoods, while trams mainly operate in the former East Berlin. Stations are clearly signposted and ticket machines offer an English-language option. Outside peak hours, bicycles are allowed on public transport, perfectly complementing Berlin’s bike-friendly nature. For night owls, night buses run when the metro services stop.

Planning a weekend in Berlin

A weekend in Berlin benefits from smart planning to make the most of your time without feeling rushed. Divide your stay into themed segments: start with a historical walk through Mitte in the morning, visiting the Brandenburg Gate and the Reichstag, followed by an afternoon exploring the museums on Museum Island. Set aside an evening to enjoy the culinary scene in Kreuzberg or Prenzlauer Berg. On day two, focus on Berlin’s alternative side: browse vintage shops and art galleries in Friedrichshain, admire street art around Urban Spree and Boxhagener Platz, and end the day at one of the city’s legendary clubs. Late spring and early autumn are ideal times for a city trip, offering pleasant temperatures and fewer crowds. Booking accommodation in central Mitte or trendy Friedrichshain ensures excellent accessibility.

Street art and alternative culture in Berlin

Berlin’s alternative culture and street art scene is among the most dynamic in the world. After the fall of the Wall in 1989, countless artists moved into abandoned buildings in former East Berlin, sparking a creative explosion. Neighbourhoods such as Kreuzberg, Friedrichshain and Wedding now serve as open-air galleries, showcasing impressive murals by internationally renowned artists like Blu, ROA and Victor Ash. The RAW-Gelände, a former railway site in Friedrichshain, has been transformed into a hub for art studios, alternative clubs and skate ramps. Urban Nation, the world’s first museum dedicated to street art and graffiti, is located in Schöneberg. During your city trip, you can join specialised street art tours that guide you past iconic works while explaining their political and social background. The alternative scene also thrives in the city’s many trendy cafés, vintage shops and underground clubs.

Exploring Berlin from your hotel

Your choice of hotel in Berlin greatly influences how you experience the city. Staying in Mitte places you in the historic centre, with easy access to major attractions such as the Brandenburg Gate, Museum Island and Alexanderplatz. Hotels in Charlottenburg offer a more elegant setting near the upscale shopping boulevard Kurfürstendamm and the famous KaDeWe department store. For a more authentic local atmosphere, Prenzlauer Berg and Friedrichshain are excellent options, known for their cosy cafés, independent boutiques and vibrant nightlife. Kreuzberg attracts travellers who appreciate a multicultural vibe, with Turkish markets, trendy bars and a lively food scene centred around Markthalle Neun. As Berlin is a sprawling city, always check the proximity of metro stations when choosing accommodation. Many hotels also offer bicycle rentals, a fantastic way to explore the city via its extensive cycle paths along the River Spree and through its green parks.