The Best Activities in Berlin

Berlin is one of the most vibrant and interesting cities in the world. With its fascinating history, diverse culture, and immense art and music scenes, there is something for everyone in Berlin. Whether you’re looking for a unique experience or a more traditional sightseeing adventure, you’ll find it in Berlin. From historical sites and museums to outdoor adventures and culinary experiences, there are a plethora of activities to choose from in this exciting city.

A Brief History of Berlin

Berlin has an incredibly rich history that stretches back hundreds of years. Founded in the 13th century, the city has gone through numerous periods of growth and decline, as well as multiple changes of government and culture. During World War II, much of the city was destroyed, and it was divided into East and West Germany after the war. In 1989, the Berlin Wall fell, reuniting the two halves of the city. Since then, Berlin has become a thriving metropolis, with a unique mix of old and new, traditional and modern.

Today, Berlin is one of the most populous cities in Germany, with over 3.5 million people living in the metropolitan area. It is a major cultural hub and a popular tourist destination, attracting more than 12 million visitors each year. Home to numerous renowned universities and colleges, it offers an abundance of educational opportunities as well. Art and music lovers will find plenty to enjoy in Berlin’s many art galleries, music venues and museums.

Top Things to Do In Berlin

Berlin is full of exciting activities and attractions to explore. Here are some of the top things to do in this amazing city:

Museumsinsel (Museum Island)

Museumsinsel is a must-see destination for any visitor to Berlin. Located in the middle of the Spree River, Museum Island is home to five remarkable museums that span the history of art and culture from ancient times to the present day. The island is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is home to some of the world’s most significant art collections. The Pergamon Museum houses an incredible array of ancient artifacts from the Middle East, including the famous Ishtar Gate from Babylon; the Altes Museum contains a comprehensive collection of Greek, Roman and Egyptian works; the Neues Museum displays works from Egyptian and Etruscan civilizations; the Alte Nationalgalerie houses 19th-century European art; and the Bode Museum features coins, medals, sculptures and Byzantine art.

Brandenburg Gate

The Brandenburg Gate is one of Berlin’s most iconic landmarks. Built in 1791 as a symbol of peace and victory, it has since become an enduring symbol of Berlin and Germany as a whole. The gate is located on Pariser Platz near the Reichstag building and is open to visitors throughout the year, making it an ideal spot for sightseeing and photography. During summer months, visitors can take part in a guided tour or attend one of many cultural events that take place in and around the gate.

Berlin Wall Memorial

The Berlin Wall Memorial is an essential destination for anyone interested in learning about Germany’s turbulent past. Located on Bernauer Strasse in the city’s Mitte district, it offers visitors an opportunity to explore a 1.4-kilometer stretch of the former wall that once divided East and West Berlin. The site contains numerous memorials, sculptures and installations that commemorate those who were affected by the wall’s construction and its eventual fall. Visitors can also see remnants of the wall itself, including watchtowers and guard posts.

The Reichstag Building

The Reichstag Building is an iconic landmark located in central Berlin. Originally opened in 1894 as a meeting place for German parliamentarians, it was severely damaged during World War II but was later restored and now serves as the meeting place for Germany’s federal parliament, the Bundestag. Visitors can explore the building’s main chamber as well as its impressive dome, which offers stunning views over the city. An audio guide is available for those who wish to learn more about the building’s history and significance.

Tiergarten Park

Tiergarten Park is one of Berlin’s largest public parks and a great place to spend a relaxed afternoon. Located in central Berlin near Brandenburg Gate, it is a perfect spot for a picnic or a stroll along its many winding paths. The park also offers plenty of other activities such as boat rides, biking trails, tennis courts, playgrounds and much more. Be sure to visit the park’s smaller landmarks such as the Victory Column or “Siegessäule” which offers impressive views over the park and city skyline.

Popular Tours in Berlin

Berlin offers a wide variety of tours that can help you get to know this remarkable city better. Here are two popular tours that you can book through Viator:

Berlin Small Group Walking Tour

This 3-hour walking tour takes you through some of Berlin’s most iconic sights and landmarks. You’ll start your journey at Brandenburg Gate before heading to Checkpoint Charlie and Museum Island. Along the way you’ll learn about Berlin’s fascinating history from your knowledgeable guide who will provide context for everything you see. You’ll also have time for photos at some of the most iconic locations such as Gendarmenmarkt Square, Unter den Linden boulevard, and Bebelplatz Square where you can admire monuments such as The Victory Column or “Siegessäule”. At the end of your tour you’ll be able to explore a small section of what remains of the Berlin Wall near Potsdamer Platz. Book this walking tour here.

Berlin Bike Tour

If you’re looking for an active way to explore Berlin, then this 4-hour bike tour is just what you need. You’ll cycle around some of Berlin’s most iconic landmarks such as Brandenburg Gate, Checkpoint Charlie, Museum Island and much more. Your knowledgeable guide will give you in-depth information about each sight as you cycle past them. You’ll also get to ride along some of Berlin’s famous riverside pathways giving you plenty of chances to take stunning photos along the way. Other sights include The Victory Column or “Siegessäule” as well as what remains of the Berlin Wall near Potsdamer Platz. Book this bike tour here.

Popular Tours In Berlin Through GetYourGuide

If you’re looking for some unique activities or tours in Berlin then GetYourGuide has got you covered! Here are two popular tours that you can find on their website:

Berlin Cold War Tour

This 3-hour tour will take you back in time to explore some of Berlin’s most important Cold War sites. You’ll start your journey at Checkpoint Charlie before heading over to Museum Island where you will learn about Berlin’s role as a divided city during this turbulent period in history. You’ll also visit some other important sites such as Potsdamer Platz, Bebelplatz Square and much more while your knowledgeable guide explains what life was like during this period. At the end of your tour you’ll be able to explore what remains of Berlin’s iconic Wall near Potsdamer Platz before heading back to Checkpoint Charlie where your tour ends. Book this Cold War tour here.

Berlin Street Art Tour

This 3-hour walking tour takes you on an exploration through some of Berlin’s most vibrant street art scenes. Starting at Boxhagener Platz in Friedrichshain district, your expert guide will lead you through some of Berlin’s most interesting streets and alleys showing off their unique street art murals along with some lesser-known underground galleries featuring works by both established and up-and-coming local artists. Depending on availability you may also get to visit some of Berlin’s open-air galleries such as Urban Spree or Haus Schwarzenberg where you can admire graffiti artist’s works up close while learning more about their stories from your guide. Book this Street Art tour here.

Conclusion

From historical sites to modern galleries and outdoor adventures, there are plenty of activities for visitors to enjoy in Berlin. Whether you’re looking for a unique experience or a more traditional sightseeing adventure, there’s something for everyone in this vibrant city! Consider booking one of many popular tours available through Viator or GetYourGuide so that you can get an even more in-depth look at everything that Berlin has to offer!