When it comes to must-see sights Berlin is a city that doesn’t disappoint.
From world-renowned museums to historic sites there is an endless array of things to see and do in this vibrant city.
If you’re looking for some inspiration on what to add to your Berlin itinerary here are 10 of the most stunning sights to see in Berlin.
1.
Berlin Cathedral
Berlin Cathedral is one of the city’s most iconic landmarks and a must-see for any first-time visitor.
Located on Museum Island in the Mitte district the cathedral is known for its grandiose Neo-Renaissance architecture and stunning views from the cupola.
If you’re lucky enough to visit on a sunny day make sure to take the lift to the top of the cathedral for panoramic views of the city.
2.
The Brandenburg Gate
The Brandenburg Gate is another of Berlin’s most well-known landmarks and a symbol of the city’s history.
The 18th-century neoclassical monument was once part of the city’s defensive wall and served as a gateway between East and West Berlin during the Cold War.
Today the Brandenburg Gate is a popular spot for photo opportunities and to watch the changing of the guard.
3.
The Reichstag Building
The Reichstag Building is the seat of the German parliament and one of Berlin’s most visited sights.
The landmark building dates back to the late 19th century and features a striking glass dome that offers panoramic views of the city.
If you’re interested in learning more about the Reichstag Building and its history you can take a guided tour of the building or attend one of the free public events that are held here.
4.
Potsdamer Platz
Potsdamer Platz is a square in the heart of Berlin that was once a busy traffic junction.
During the Cold War the square was divided by the Berlin Wall and became a symbol of the city’s divisions.
Today Potsdamer Platz has been redeveloped into a modern shopping and entertainment district with a range of restaurants cafes and shops.
5.
The Holocaust Memorial
The Holocaust Memorial is a monument in remembrance of the six million Jews who were killed during the Holocaust.
The memorial is located in the centre of Berlin and consists of 2711 concrete slabs of different sizes.
Visitors can walk through the memorial and read the names of the concentration camps where the victims were killed.
6.
Checkpoint Charlie
Checkpoint Charlie was one of the crossing points between East and West Berlin during the Cold War.
The checkpoint was named after the letter “C” in the NATO phonetic alphabet and was the only crossing point for foreigners and members of the Allied forces.
Today a replica of the checkpoint booth is on display at the Checkpoint Charlie Museum which tells the story of the Berlin Wall and the people who attempted to escape from East Germany.
7.
The Berlin Wall
The Berlin Wall was a physical barrier that divided East and West Berlin from 1961 to 1989.
The wall was built by the Communist government of East Germany to stop its citizens from fleeing to the West.
The Berlin Wall fell in 1989 and today sections of the wall have been preserved as a memorial to those who lost their lives trying to escape from East Germany.
8.
The Jewish Museum
The Jewish Museum is one of Berlin’s most popular museums and tells the story of German-Jewish history.
The museum is located in the former Jewish quarter of Berlin and features a range of exhibitions on Jewish life in Germany.
The museum also has a Holocaust memorial dedicated to the Jewish victims of the Nazi regime.
9.
The DDR Museum
The DDR Museum is a museum dedicated to life in the former East Germany.
The museum is located in the former East German government district and features a range of exhibitions on everyday life in the communist state.
The museum also has a replica of an East German apartment and a Trabant car which was the most popular car in East Germany.
10.
The East Side Gallery
The East Side Gallery is a 1.3-kilometre section of the Berlin Wall that has been turned into an open-air gallery.
The gallery features a range of murals by international artists which depict the fall of the Berlin Wall and the hope for a unified Germany.
The East Side Gallery is located in the Friedrichshain district of Berlin and is one of the most popular tourist attractions in the city.