But if you’re only visiting Berlin for one day, it can look like a seemingly insurmountable task, since the city has such a rich history and vibrant cultural scene. But fear not! If there’s one day you can devote to Berlin, with proper planning and prioritization you’ll get to experience the essence. Here’s a whirlwind tour of the must see, must eat, and infinitely interesting places. To get you fully prepared for this beautiful unforgettable adventure, fasten your seat belts now!
Visit Brandenburg Gate to Start Your Day
An obvious first stop must be the Brandenburg Gate, which symbolises Germany’s unification. Though it stands tall, at the end of Unter den Linden boulevard, on one side the serene Tiergarten park and on the other the bustling Pariser Platz. Stop and appreciate the beauty of the gate and consider its importance high.
Pro Tip:
If you have time, arrive early to avoid crowds and snap some fantastic photos of the gate mid morning light.
Take a Dip at the Berlin Wall Memorial
Next head over the Berlin Wall Memorial, which will help you understand more about the city’s past. Bernauer Strasse hosts this open air museum and it is about the struggles of the Berliners during the period of cold war. Read the stories painted by local artists to describe the emotional impact this structure had on the city, walk through the remnants of the wall.
Pro Tip:
Make sure not to miss the Wall of Tears which honours people that lost their lives trying to get across the wall. That’s a haunting reminder of what happens when we divide.
See the Cultural Marvels at Museum Island
Museum Island is a UNESCO World Heritage site and certainly no visit to Berlin is complete without visiting here. It’s this ensemble of five world class museums, four in the heart of the city and one in the city’s diplomatic quarter, bringing together art, culture and history from various periods. The Pergamon Museum, Neues Museum, Bode Museum, Altes Museum, and Alte Nationalgalerie, choose a museum or purchase the Museum Island pass to get the most out of your time.
Pro Tip:
If you’re time limited, make the Pergamon Museum your first choice: Its treasures include the awe inspiring Ishtar Gate and the Pergamon Altar. It will send your senses to ancient civilizations!
Berlin Gastro Food Excursion
At this point, you’ve burned your calories, so you ought to be hungry. Luckily, Berlin has options galore when it comes to food: from the various cuisines that it throws at you to the infinite forms of dietary restrictions. Instead, plop yourself down at one of the city’s famous currywurst stands — Curry 36, or Konnopke’s Imbiss — for a good, cheap dose of street food. If you like sit down meals, head to the trendy and equally international neighborhood of Kreuzberg.
Pro Tip:
A traditional beer garden like Prater or Café az Neuen See is a wonderful opportunity to experience a different kind of dining: authentic German dishes, and relaxed atmosphere.
Explore Berlin’s Off The Beaten Track Neighborhoods
After refuelling, go exploring through Berlin’s creative neighbourhoods to really get the hang of the city’s mood. Celebrate Kreuzberg‘s spirited streets with colourful people, street art, and different directions. Or check out the hipster district of Prenzlauer Berg, a maze of stylish boutiques, cozy cafés, leafy parks and more. You have to embrace the local charm, embrace the unique flavour each neighborhood brings to the table.
Pro Tip:
In Friedrichshain you should visit RAW-Gelände for an offbeat experience. This was a train repair yard which has become a nexus for artists, musicians and all types of independent businesses. Weather graffiti covered buildings, lay down on the pop up markets, be underground.
End Your Day on a High Note at the East Side Gallery
Move on if you have time with a whirlwind tour of Berlin’s East side gallery, the largest open air gallery in the world. The Berlin Wall, spread over 1.3km of course, was was decorated by over 100 artistic interpretations and is definitely a sight worth seeing. Allow yourself to enjoy the range of artwork to discover, each artwork introducing what it is saying, wishing to convey hope, unity, and freedom.
Pro Tip:
Go to East Side Gallery and during the golden hour see the colorful artwork illuminated by the setting sun. It’s an unforgettable sight!
Final Thoughts
While Berlin is a city with tons to offer, in just one day you can become immersed in its rich history, colourful culture and unique atmosphere. This itinerary goes through all the iconic landmarks and hidden gems so that you squeeze as much time as possible in the city. Bear in mind that this guide is simply the starting point: there’s so much more to Berlin. Therefore, here we go, grab your map, your walking shoes and enjoy an amazing journey through the German capital’s heart!
