berlin 2 day tour

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2 Days in Berlin: A Guide to the Perfect Weekend in Berlin

Let’s get this out of the way up front – 2 days in Berlin certainly isn’t a whole lot of time to explore what is, in my book, one of the most interesting cities in Europe.  

This guide is meant to give you an idea of what to do in Berlin in two days to get the most out of your trip. You’ll find a mix of touristy activities, fantastic museums, and some time devoted to exploring local neighborhoods on foot so that you can get a well rounded picture of Berlin. 

Because if you spend your entire 2 days in Berlin doing just one of those things, like exploring Alexanderplatz, it would be a profound mistake. You’d miss out on the diversity of cultures, food, and people that make Berlin special.

Disclaimer: Some of the links in this post are affiliate links, meaning at no additional cost to you, I make a little bit of money if you click through and book. That being said, I would never recommend something to you that I don’t stand behind 100%.

Where to Stay for 2 Days in Berlin

There are three neighborhoods I’d recommend staying in while you’re in Berlin.

First is Prenzlauer Berg – this is my #1 recommendation for where to stay in Berlin . The reason I love Prenzlauer Berg is simple – it feels like you’re a local. Walking down the Paris-like wide streets, lined with apartment buildings that feature first floor shops, you’ll walk by young families and students going about their day. It also happens to have some of the best food and coffee in the city.

Second is Charlottenburg , which is the perfect place to stay for families. Or if you want somewhere quiet and peaceful. It’s a very pretty part of Berlin with great architecture, and it’s close to the Tiergarten and Berlin Zoo (zoos are for adults too, okay?!).

Last, but certainly not least, is Friedrichshain , which is the spot for you if you’re on a tight budget, or if you’re looking for the best nightlife in Berlin. Which often go hand in hand.

Want a deeper dive on where to stay in Berlin? I’ve got a guide to the best places to stay in Berlin with three of my favorite neighborhoods, and places to stay in each.

Circus Hostel, Hotel, and Apartments

I loved the Circus Hostel , which is where I stayed for my trip to Berlin.

They have bunks and private rooms that are clean and relatively quiet. The reason I really like it is that it perfectly merges the value and affordability of a hostel with the cleanliness and comfort that comes with a hotel.

Not into hostels? They also have the Circus Hotel and Circus Apartments for you depending on what level of accommodation you’re looking for.

2 Days in Berlin: A Perfect Weekend in Berlin for First Time Visitors

One of the best parts about Berlin is that there is something for everyone. World-class museums and a deep and fascinating historical context? Check. Insane nightlife? Yep. Interesting, walkable neighborhoods? Of course!

My travel style focuses on exploring the best parts of a city on foot. That means a lot of walking, so make sure you’ve got your comfy shoes packed. You’re going to be doing a lot of walking during your 2 days in Berlin.

In this 2 day Berlin Itinerary, you’ll explore: 

• Berlin’s iconic sights, like the Tiergarten, the Brandenburg Gate, and Museum Island
• Two of Berlin’s best neighborhoods – Kreuzberg and Neukölln
• The best coffee, bars, and more in Berlin

Day 1 Of Your 2 Day Berlin Itinerary: Sightseeing Day!

A lot of the major tourist attractions are grouped close together, making it easy for people short on time to see the major sights. And that’s exactly what you should do on your first of two days in Berlin.

Make sure you leave plenty of time to visit the cafes and gluten free bakeries around the city, because after all, it’s not about what to do in Berlin in 2 days as much as what to eat and drink in Berlin in 2 days! 

For recommendations on where to eat and drink in Berlin, check out the sections at the bottom of this post.

Walking Tours in Berlin

I almost always start a trip to a new city with a walking tour to get myself oriented and get some tips from the local guide on where to go, what to see, and how to get slightly off the beaten path. After all, the best way to explore a city is on foot. 

In Berlin, you’ll find a wide variety of walking tours depending on what you’re interested in.

For an overview of the city, I recommend the Discover Berlin half day tour . Get on the 10:30am tour and spend 4 hours essentially covering the first half of my itinerary below, but with a guide who has intimate knowledge of the city and its history.  

An alternative would be to do the 6 hour Berlin by Bike tour, where you’ll see most of the spots on day one of this 2 day Berlin itinerary, but on a bike. With a local expert guide. 

Here are some more niche tours that you might be interested in: 

• Third Reich Walking Tour
• Off the Grid Street Art Tour
• Berlin off the Beaten Path

Morning: The Iconic Sights in Berlin

Day 1 is going to be all about playing tourist – on day 2, we’ll get a little bit deeper into Berlin and see some of the best neighborhoods, and do some self-guided exploring. 

Brandenburg Gate

Start at the Brandenburg Gate which has seen a lot of the history of Berlin. It’s an obvious first stop on your 2 days in Berlin.

Historically, it used to attract visitors who would climb the viewing platform to look over into the East Side of Berlin to get a glimpse of the world that lay beyond the Iron Curtain.

Today bricks still run around the city to mark where the wall once stood and in some places portions of the wall remain standing.

The Holocaust Memorial

Just south of the Gate is the Memorial to the Murdered Jews of Europe which draws the eye with its 2,711 grey concrete blocks arranged in undulating waves. The Information Center contains information about the individuals and families that died during World War 2, and compliments the abstract nature of the memorial. 

The abstract nature of the memorial makes for an introspective experience. Wandering between the blocks, wondering what they mean, and thinking about what they represent. I like to think that’s the whole point – the abstractness is meant to get you thinking. 

The Reichstag Dome

The Reichstag in Berlin is your next stop, and it is one of the most important historical landmarks in Berlin. It’s considered a symbol of democracy and an important art venue. There are both permanent and changing exhibitions which are free to visit. 

Entrance to the Reichstag and the dome are free but visitors to the dome and roof terrace need to be registered in advance. You can do that here . This can be done online up to 2 hours before your visit, but it often fills up. It is definitely worth heading up to the dome for panoramic views of the cities and a birds eye view of the proceedings in the debating room below. Don’t miss the audio guide. 

The Tiergarten

The Tiergarten is a must see while you are in Berlin – it’s a huge green space in the middle of the city, kind of like Central Park in New York City, or Golden Gate Park in San Francisco . 

I’d recommend renting a bike to cycle around the park as there are plenty of bike lanes. It used to be a royal hunting ground but in the late 17 th century it was turned into a public park.

During World War II it was badly damaged, both from fighting and by people cutting down trees to use as fuel due to a lack of coal. It was replanted shortly after and is now a beautiful place to wander around or relax.

For me, there were three highlights in the park that you can’t miss:

• The Soviet war memorial
• The Victory Column
• The Tea House, and Café am Neunen which has a beer garden right on the edge of the lake. 

Afternoon: More Culture And Must-See Sights

After lunch we’re heading to Museum Island for a little bit of culture. On this little island there are 5 museums which can all be visited with one ticket costing EUR18 for adults. Which is CRAZY AFFORDABLE. Buy your Museum Pass here .

I want to pause here and talk about my philosophy on Museums. When I first started traveling, I was all about the museums. On my first trip to London, Paris, and Rome, I went to EVERY Museum. And I regretted it.

You only have two days in Berlin, you don’t want to spend it inside museums. I would pick one or two museums at most and focus on those.

Museum Island

The most popular of these museums, and the one that I would recommend you focus on, is the Pergamon Museum which exhibits monumental buildings like the Pergamon Altar, the Ishtar Gate of Babylon, and the Museum of Islamic Art. If you just want to visit 

Of course, there are four other museums to choose from if you’re particularly interested in something specific. 

• The Bode Museum holds a large collection of sculptures from the medieval period through to the 18 th century. 
• The Neues Museum has a curated selection of pieces from the Egyptian Museum and the Papyrus Collection. The jewel in this museum’s crown is the bust of Queen Nefertiti. 
• Alte Nationalgalerie focuses on the neoclassical, romanticism, impressionist, and early modernist art. Here you will able to see work from Monet, Manet, Renoir, and Friedrich. 
• The final museum on the island is the Altes Museum which is dedicated to art and sculpture from ancient Greece and the Roman Empire. It has the largest collection of Etruscan art outside of Italy.

Coffee Stop!

The Barn Café is a great coffee stop to break up the afternoon and try some of the offerings from the most popular German roaster.

They have a roastery in hipster Mitte, with a handful of tables and chairs outside that are perfect for people watching if you are lucky enough to nab one. There’s a brew bar where you can get your coffee prepared in basically any way you’d like, which was a rarity in Germany.

If you’re craving a solid pour over or a nice smooth cold brew, get it here. It can be really busy so be prepared to wait a little while but it is well worth the wait!

Can’t find a seat? Take your coffee to go and slowly wander through the streets of Mitte towards museum island again to see the best museum in Berlin, the DDR Museum . It is located just before the bridge onto museum island.

This museum is dedicated to life in East Germany and includes a reconstruction of an East German apartment where the TV even shows some of the old programming that would have been shown at the time. The most popular exhibit is a simulated drive in an original Trabant. 

Alexanderplatz

I actually wouldn’t recommend investing too much time in Alexanderplatz – there are plenty of more interesting parts of the city to explore during your 2 days in Berlin. But, it’s worth a stroll through bustling Alexanderplatz to see the sights. 

It is the site of the TV Tower, which is the 2 nd tallest structure in the EU. See the panoramic views of Berlin including information about the buildings you are seeing around you. In the square there is also the Fountain of Friendship, the World Clock, and plenty of shopping. 

The streets around Alexanderplatz are full of street art so take a wander or if you are spending a bit more time in Berlin book a street art tour.  

Evening : Nightlife !

After dinner enjoy some of the amazing nightlife that Berlin has to offer. You only have 2 days in Berlin, so you’ll have to choose where you want to go carefully. You can find a list of some of my favorite bars and clubs to visit down below. 

Looking for the Best Tours in Berlin?

Airbnb Experiences are designed by locals to bring you, a tourist, into their world, experience, and everyday life. It’s my new favorite way to find things to do when I’m traveling – from an amazing cooking class in Mexico City, to an inspiring look at Medellin’s transformation from one of the most violent cities in the world to one of the most innovative and forward-thinking.

Here are a few Airbnb Experiences to check out in Berlin to get deeper into the city’s rich history, culture, and food scene.

Tours For History Lovers

If you’re interested in Berlin’s history, particularly in World War 2 and the Cold War , take this WWII + Berlin Wall Tour , which takes you deeper into the story of Hitler’s rise and fall, and how it has shaped Germany today.

More interested in the current issues surrounding Berlin, like gentrification, migration, and sustainability? This Changemaker Tour takes you into two of Berlin’s most interesting neighborhoods to meet some of the entrepreneurs driving the important conversations in Berlin (and the world). Click here to check prices, availability, and reviews .

Tours For Foodies

One of my favorite things about Berlin is the fact that, more than many European cities I’ve visited, it is truly a melting pot of different cultures and influences. Those doner kebabs you see on every corner? They’re part of the story of migration that has made the city what it is today. Take this tour to learn about the story of Berlin through food (and see the city on a bike!). Check prices, availability, and read reviews here.

Have you ever made your own cheese? I certainly haven’t. Now’s your chance to make your own cheese (several varieties with your choice of flavors added)! Check prices, availability, and read reviews here.

Into Craft Beer ? Explore Berlin’s burgeoning Craft Beer Culture with a local brewer in Berlin. You’ll get to taste some iconic Berlin beers, learn about the process, and understand the context around beer in Berlin and Germany as a whole. Check prices, availability, and read reviews here.

Take this Kreuzberg Food Tour to focus on Berlin’s hippest neighborhood (also one of the best places to stay) and the multicultural story that has shaped it. Check prices, availability, and read reviews here.

Day 2: Explore Hipster (ish) Berlin

Morning: explore one of the trendiest neighborhoods in berlin .

Start off the morning in Neukölln, Berlin’s up and coming neighborhood. It is filled with vintage stores, graffiti covered alleyways and more quaint cafes than you could poke a gluten free biscuit at!

• Pequod Books is a second hand bookshop with books written in 25 languages. The owner Alvaro only sells books he personally likes so you can be sure to find some hidden gems. 
• BLUB Spassbad is a closed swimming pool which has been covered in graffiti and used as a place of underground (read: illegal) parties and for fashion photoshoots. 
• Weserstraße is a hotspot for small local boutiques and vintage shops. If you are in the vicinity in the evening it is also full of bars with cozy sofas, mood lighting, and vintage furniture. 
• Griessmühle Mühlenmarkt is a flea market held in a club in the middle of Neukölln on the first Friday of every month. 

Afternoon: Kreuzberg and the Eastside Gallery

Jump on the U-Bahn and head over to the East Side Gallery in Berlin . 

They have turned the longest remaining section of the Berlin Wall into an open-air art gallery showing 1.3km of art. Walk off your lunch as you take in all of the political art covering the former Berlin Wall.

Here are a few of my favorites: 

Cross over the River Spree and head to Five Elephant Coffee in Kreuzberg . They offer no frills coffee and cakes, but the coffee is such high quality that Five Elephants has repeatedly been named one of the best cafes in Berlin.

They also make all of their pastries (minus the croissants) in house! If you’re a cheesecake fan, they have cheesecake that my little brother, who is NOT a fan of cheesecake, absolutely loved. IT IS NOT GLUTEN FREE. 

Here are some of my favorite things to do in Kreuzberg. 

• Check out Markethalle Neun , a super cool food hall with all sorts of food vendors. From cheese, to coffee, to bread, to beer (and everything in between). Don’t miss “ Street Food Thursdays ” where you’ll find it packed with locals looking for the best street food in Berlin – from Mexican Tacos to Nigerian FuFu, and so much more. 
• Stop and rest your feet in the concrete park of Admiralbrücke . Street performers of all kinds set up here most of the day, so it is a pleasant place to relax for a little bit.  
• Visit the Konig Gallery , a contemporary gallery housed in a former brutalist church and community center. You will discover plenty of emerging local artists while perusing the art. 
• Take a guided tour of Kreuzberg and Friedrichshain where you’ll explore the counter culture movements that shaped the area, and learn about how immigration has shaped Berlin. 

Got More Than 2 Days in Berlin? 

Whether you have a late flight or you have more than 2 days in Berlin, these are some of my top picks of extra things to see if you have a little more time in Berlin. 

Topography Of Terror Museum 

Located at the site where the headquarters of the Gestapo once stood, this is a museum of remembrance of all the crimes committed. There are permanent exhibitions that detail the history from the moment the Nazis took power until the end of the war. Temporary exhibitions deal with different aspects of socialism. 

Checkpoint Charlie

Checkpoint Charlie and the connected museum should be top of your list if you have a little more time in Berlin. This was one of the main crossing points in general for people travelling between East and West Berlin and the designated crossing point for allied forces. However, it’s VERY touristy, so know that going in. 

Walking Tour

This is one of the best things to do in Berlin to learn interesting little facts about the city you are exploring. I found that I learned very little about the Cold War growing up in the US, and the walking tour I did helped me get a deeper understanding of what it was like to live in the epicenter of the conflict.

You will find all sorts of walking tours – food tours, street art tours, and tours focusing on communist Berlin, and the history of the war. The museum has a wealth of information about each side of Berlin, inventive escape tactics, and the history of the Berlin Wall.

Find the right walking tour for you here . 

Charlottenburg Palace

Formerly a summer residence, this is the biggest and most awe-inspiring palace in Berlin. Here you can explore the beautiful rococo ballroom, the Prussian Crown Jewels, and a display of the intricately designed tableware. Admission is EUR12 per person and both audio guides and guided tours are available. 

Prenzlauer Berg neighborhood

This little neighborhood is lovely and a calm side of the quirky city. Filled with professionals and young families it is filled with renovated pre-war buildings. Think Sunday afternoon mass public karaoke in Mauerpark, a ruin bar, and quirky little bars around every corner. This is a lovely little suburb for a relaxing wander to see how people live in suburban Berlin. 

Day Trip to Potsdam 

Stunning Potsdam is one of Berlin’s most picturesque towns, in contrast to Berlin’s grey soviet architecture, Potsdam looks like an absolute fairy tale. Just 45 minutes by train from Berlin. The highlight of a visit to Potsdam is a visit to Sanssouci Palace, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Tickets for this must be booked in advance and cost EUR19. Alternatively, you can book a guided day trip to Potsdam here (or check out this cool bike tour of Potsdam ).

An interactive museum that takes you through the history of espionage throughout the world. It has over 300 exhibits on display, including a laser course, and learn about computer hacking and code cracking. The highlights are an enigma style encryption device, and an exhibit on data protection and social media, a timely topic. 

How to Get Around in Berlin 

Berlin’s public transportation system is so easy to use; everything runs perfectly to schedule and signs are in English as well as German. 

Day passes are just EUR7 per adult and are valid for all types of transport so are well worth it for a 2 day Berlin itinerary so you have more time for exploring. Single tickets are EUR3 each if you just need to make one trip. There is a fine of EUR60 if you are caught travelling without a ticket and ticket inspectors travel regularly so it is worth making sure you buy a ticket. 

Central Berlin is easy to walk or bike if you want to be a little more active and experience as much of the beautiful city as possible. The cycling infrastructure is really advanced so there are plenty of bike lanes to explore the city. 

Where to Eat in Berlin

Berlin is a great food city. Whether you’re looking for world class dining (like at Katz Orange ) or some quick and easy street food, like a doner kebab, Berlin has you covered. 

Traveling to Berlin with Celiac Disease? Guess what? I have you covered with my Gluten Free Travel Guide to Berlin for Celiacs . 

When in Berlin, do as the Berliners do. Which means you have to try Currywurst – a delicious concoction of sausage, fries, and ketchup topped with curry powder. Head to Witty’s Currywurst where they have organic and gluten free sausages, and the chips are fried in their own dedicated fryer. The servers will happily change their gloves to make your currywurst to prevent cross contamination. 

Amrit – an Indian restaurant that offers all the usual Indian fare. Most of the menu is naturally gluten free but it’s worth checking with your server just to be sure. My favourites were the Butter Chicken and Aloo Saag. They have a couple of locations in the city. 

Chutnify – more Indian food! This time, it’s Chutnify, which has a range of (objectively delicious) curries and dosas, all of which are gluten free. Locations in both of my favorite neighborhoods in Berlin, Prenzlauer Berg and Kreuzberg. Most of the menu is gluten free. 

Glutanada – a dedicated gluten free bakery. They serve a fantastic brunch but also do bread, pastries, crepes, and even spaetzle. Located near Tempelhof park. 

Cevicheria – a Peruvian restaurant on Dresdener Street in Kreuzberg. Most of the menu is in English and contains plenty of seafood dishes and tapas. Everything is gluten free except the desserts. 

Cafe Tante Nanni – 100% Gluten Free cafe in Berlin. It’s a little outside the heart of the city center, but worth the detour.  

Brotquelle – near the Eastside Gallery, a 100% gluten free bakery that has all the gluten free baked goods you could possibly imagine. 

Burgerie – in the mood for burgers? Head to Burgerie in Prenzlauer Berg for delicious burgers and fries. Celiac-safe gluten free options available, and fries are in a dedicated gluten free fryer. 

Where to Drink in Berlin

Berlin has such a wide range of places to drink that it’s hard to feature them all here, and it totally depends on what you’re looking for.

However, I’m pretty confident that whether you’re looking for a romantic speakeasy for a date with that special someone, or a rowdy nightclub to find that special someone, you’ll find great options in Berlin. Here are some ideas for you. 

Cocktail train – a renovated S-Bahn train car from the 1920s that has been made into a lovely cocktail bar. 

Tarantino’s Bar – a bar in homage to Quentin Tarantino. The walls are covered in movie posters, the majority of them signed by the man himself.

B-Flat – a premier live music and jazz venue in Berlin.

Klunkerkranich – if you’re into working hard to even find the bar you’re trying to go to, this is the spot for you. I very much enjoy the search – one time in Melbourne, Australia I spent 45 minutes circling a block to find the coffee shop I was looking for. Alysha, my wife, was not terribly pleased.. Some might call me a hipster. And they’re probably right. It’s located in hipster Neukolln (ish), which totally makes sense. 

Department – a stylish restaurant/club in a former post office. Visit later in the evening when it turns into a club to dance until sunrise. 

Die Schöne Party – A club spread out over four floors with every floor offering a different style of live music. Some of the best DJs in Berlin line up to play here. 

Monkey Bar – a lovely rooftop bar overlooking the zoo, Tiergarten, and the rest of Berlin. Snap some photos of the city lights of Berlin as you sip a cocktail and think of the highlights of your trip. It’s expensive though, so keep that in mind. 

More on where to drink in Berlin here . 

Where to find the Best Coffee in Berlin

Prior to visiting Berlin, I had only heard of one German coffee roaster – Five Elephant Coffee .

I had read about them in a few places, including Sprudge , and was super excited to try their coffee. They lived up to the hype. And they should be a coffee lover’s first stop in Berlin. They have a location in Kreuzberg, and a newer location in Mitte. 

If you’re not a Celiac, you should know that they make all of their pastries in-house (except for the croissants) and they have excellent cheesecake according to my brother, who doesn’t even like cheesecake but devoured the Five Elephant cheesecake in 14.2 seconds.

There were several other fantastic coffee shops that I visited in Berlin – here were the best of the rest to check out during your 2 days in Berlin.

In Prenzlauer Berg: 

Bonanza Coffee Heroes – On the outskirts of Prenzlauer Berg, the first time we tried to go here I accidentally took us to the coffee shop a few doors down (Café KRONE, which was also very nice). So naturally, we had to come back. Lovely outdoor seating area for a nice day in Berlin. 

The Barn – they now have locations all over Berlin, and they sell their coffee in craft brown bags, so you know it’s good. The roastery location in Mitte has a brew bar where you can have your coffee prepared in all sorts of different ways – a must for coffee lovers. Well worth setting aside some time during your 2 days in Berlin for this coffee experience. 

In Kreuzberg/Neukölln:

Chapter One Coffee – In Kreuzberg-ish, stylish but tiny. Don’t expect to find a seat in peak hours – grab your coffee to go and get walking!

Roamers CC – cute space with great coffee that turns into a bar in the afternoon. 

In Friedrichshain:

Happy Baristas – Looking for a nitro cold brew in Berlin? This is your spot. They use coffee from the Barn (see above).

Final Thoughts on 2 Days in Berlin

Berlin was my favorite city in Germany, and is one of the best and most diverse cities in Central Europe. No matter what you’re into, you’ll find something for you in Berlin.

Did I miss something that HAS to be on a 2 day Berlin itinerary? Let me know in the comments!

Matt is the founder and main writer behind Wheatless Wanderlust, which he started back in 2018 as a way to share his gluten free travel guides with his fellow Celiac travelers.

Since then, Matt and his wife Alysha have visited 18 national parks, spent three months in Europe and six weeks in Colombia, and have explored every corner of the Pacific Northwest, which is where Matt grew up.

He writes super detailed guides to the places they visit, bringing together personal experience and historical context to help YOU plan an amazing trip.

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Berlin Itinerary: 2 Days in Berlin, Germany

This post contains product affiliate links. These are mainly on items/hotels/tours that I personally endorse & love. I may earn a small commission if you make a purchase, but at no extra cost to you.

Have you only got 2 days in Berlin? Then check out my Berlin 2 day itinerary packed full of the best things to see & do in the city!

Have you only got 2 days in Berlin and you’re worried about packing everything in? Don’t worry, that’s the perfect amount of time to see some of the city’s top sites and attractions!

I’m going to stick my hand up and say Berlin is absolutely perfect for a short break or weekend away. It’s one of those cities that you could keep coming back to time and time again and discover something completely new and different.

It has that ‘ ein gewisses Etwas’ (that’s German for ‘je ne sais quoi’ – doesn’t quite roll off the tongue in the same way does it?) What I’m trying to say is it’s the type of city you’ll never get bored in. Put it this way, it’ll keep me travelling back to Germany for decades to come.

Don’t believe me? Then check out my video below! This is just a little taster of what to do in Berlin in 2 days:

My Berlin 2 day itinerary

So I’ve actually got something to admit here. Until recently I had never been to Berlin before.

I know, I know, how can I go on about a place that I’ve only spent a couple of days in, but that’s how much I loved this place.

In my short time in Berlin I got to see places like the Brandenburg Gate, the East Side Gallery, Museum Island, the Berlin Fernsehturm, Templehof Field (a disused airport right in the city centre that’s now a cool place to hangout in the summer), I went on an awesome food tour.

Basically, I packed in as much as I could do in just a couple of days so I could highlight some of the best things to do in Berlin for you guys.

So, if you’ve only got 2 days in Berlin, here’s what I recommend you see and do. Get ready because you’re in for an amazing time!

Also, to help plan your trip here, check out this guide on what to pack & wear in Berlin . It’s packed full of useful information!

If you’re planning a trip to Berlin, then make sure you check out my guide to Berlin in spring , the best day trips from Berlin and the best hotels in Berlin too. All of these should help plan that amazing weekend away.

Are you planning an amazing weekend in Berlin? If so, you may want to book your hotels and tours asap to ensure availability. Here are some links to quickly help plan your trip!

Best hotels and apartments in Berlin:

• The Mandala Hotel (top rated 5* hotel)
• Urban Loft Berlin (top rated 4* hotel)
• Motel One Berlin-Alexanderplatz (top rated 3* hotel)

Best activities and tours in Berlin :

• Discover Berlin Walking Tour (top rated tour!)
• 3-Hour Secret Food Tour (this one is super yummy)
• TV Tower Fast View Ticket (best views in the city)

My Top Tip: Buy the Berlin Welcome Card

Before we get into it, we need to talk about the Berlin Welcome Card. This is the official tourist card for the city.

You can get a card anywhere from 2 days in Berlin all the way up to 6 days, and it will give you free entry into 30 of the city’s top attractions. It will also give you discounts of up to 50% on up to 200 other attractions, entertainment and restaurants.

Also, and best thing, it gives you free transportation all around the city (including to and from the airport) meaning you don’t have to worry about buying tickets all the time. As Berlin is a big city I found this really useful for getting around.

At €23 for a 2-day card, this is an absolute bargain and it’s so much cheaper than buying individual tickets. Whenever I get to a city and I want to do some proper sightseeing, I always make sure I get a tourist card as you end up making some killer savings.

Anyway, that’s my top tip for you there! If you’re planning on doing a lot of sightseeing then I’d really recommend picking one up for your trip.

If you’re wondering how many days in Berlin, the flexibility of the welcome card might help those of you with a changable timetable.

Things to do in Berlin, Germany

East side gallery.

Let’s start in one of the most colourful parts of Berlin – the East Side Gallery.

At 1.3 kilometres long, it’s easy to lose yourself in the colour and symbolism of this gallery.

The East Side Gallery is an open-air gallery (one of the largest in the world) consisting of murals painted on the remnants of the Berlin Wall.

Immediately after the wall came down in 1989, 118 artists from 21 countries began painting the East Side Gallery. It officially opened as an open-air gallery on 28 September 1990, and just over a year later it was given protected memorial status.

That means this little slice of history is like a time machine. It hasn’t changed since the day it was created and it really highlights what Berlin has been though.

Today, it is like a beacon of the city symbolising old wounds heal and lead to a brighter future.

As you can imagine, this is one of the most popular tourist attractions in the city. However, if you get here early (around 8am) or at night, you can have the place to yourself.

Berlin Boat Tour

If you really want to see a lot of Berlin in a short space of time then I really recommend a Berlin Boat Tour .

There are a number of these dotted all over the city but I went on a 1-hour tour from Reederei Riedel Anlegestelle. This was down by the water outside Berlin Hauptbhanhof (the main station).

On this tour I saw the Reichstag, Berlin Cathedral, Museum Island, Nicholas’s Quarter and a number of other incredible buildings too. For me, one of the best things about Berlin is the architecture – I just love how the old and new buildings perfectly complement each other.

I really enjoyed the tour as not only did it take you past some of Berlin’s most famous landmarks, it also gave you the background information and history of each place too. Perfect for a geek like me!

Most tours are in German and English, so make sure you check that they have audio guides if you want a different language.

Tickets cost €15 per person for a 1-hour tour.

Museum Island

A little further along the River Spree is Museum Island.

As the name would suggest, this is an island with 5 of the best museums on – the Pergamon Museum (the most popular museum in Berlin), the Bode Museum, the Neues Museum, the Alte Nationalgalerie and the Altes Museum.

The first museum on the island was the Altes Museum (Old Museum). Opened in 1830, it was designed to give the general public access to collections of art and historically important objects and artefacts.

Ever since then, people have been flocking to Museum Island to see some incredible exhibits and exhibitions from all around the word.

The island was originally designed as a Roman Forum which is why walking around here feels like you’re in Rome (apart from the Germany flags fluttering everywhere).

It’s difficult seeing all of these museums in Berlin in 2 days, so I’d recommending picking one like the Bode Museum and focusing on that.

Tickets cost €18 and gives you access to all 5 museums on the island.

Fork & Walk Food Tours

I say this every time I write about food tours, but they really are the best way to really get to know a city.

While I was in Berlin I went on a Fork & Walk food tour with Dov, one of those guys who just exudes enthusiasm for his city.

We met Dov in Kreuzberg, a very hipsterfied neighbourhood in Berlin, and then ate our way around the area learning about the culture and the city along the way.

Our food tour basically started off with some street beers (just the best way to start any tour) and Dov explained how much Kreuzberg has changed over years.

From there we went to Goldies, an amazing place that sells fusion fries (we had the South Korean kimchi fries and the Ukrainian beetroot and horseradish fries). Then we had a downright delicious kebab in Little Istanbul before finishing off with a classic city staple – currywurst.

If you really want to get to know Kreuzberg and Berlin then I really can’t recommend a Fork & Walk food tour enough. The food is spot on too.

An evening Fork & Walk food tour costs around €60 per person and obviously includes all meal costs.

House of Small Wonder

If you’re looking for one of the best lunch spots in town then look no further than the House of Small Wanders.

This is an amazing restaurant that’s a fusion of classical French dishes with Japanese influences and flavours. The result? Utterly delicious.

I had soy glazed pork with an Asian salad in a French croissant and it was one of the best things I ate in Berlin.

Another thing I loved about this place was the atmosphere. There’s lots of wood and plants that gives such a relaxed atmosphere. Made me feel I was in my mum’s conservatory for tea.

The menu is all packed full of veggie and vegan favourites too, so it’s definitely one for everyone. I’d say the House of Small Wanders if a must on any Berlin itinerary so make sure you pop in here.

Templehof Field

I’d really recommend visiting Templehof Field as one of the top alternative things to do in Berlin.

Basically, it’s an old disused city airport that they’ve turned into a giant recreational ground. You can even hire a bike and cycle down the runway (which is exactly what I did). And yes, it’s a lot of fun.

Templehof Airport first opened in 1923 making it one of the oldest airports in Germany. However, in 2008 things came to an end due to increased pollution and noise in the city.

However, when one door closes another one opens, and in 2010 Templehof Field was unveiled as the newest recreational ground in Berlin with lots of space for skating, cycling and running. And if that’s not your thing, then there’s even a community garden which is a cool place to kick back and relax.

When the sun’s out in summer Templehof Field is one of the best places to be in Berlin. Just grab a few beers, head down and enjoy the park vibes right in the heart of the city.

If you’d like to learn more about the history of Templehof, then you can take a tour around the buildings and airport – perfect for those aviation lovers out there!

Berlin Fernsehturm

If you’ve only got two days in Berlin then you’ve got to visit the Berlin Fernsehturm .

This is not only the highest building in Berlin, it is the highest building in all of Germany. That means if you want some of the best views of the city then this is where you’ll find them.

Soaring 368 metres into the sky, the Berlin Fernsehturm is one of those landmarks that you can see from all of your city. And no matter where I was, my eyes always seemed to be drawn to this structure.

Up at the top of the TV Tower is a viewing platform with spectacular 360-degree panoramic views. It’s from here that you realise just how flat Berlin is as a city. Also, you can clearly see iconic landmarks such as the Reichstag and Brandenburg Gate.  

There’s also a bar at the top so if you’ve got time I recommend grabbing a glass of bubbly and drinking in the views.

Tickets to the Berlin Fernsehturm cost €21.50 per person. You get a discount with the Berlin Welcome Card.

Brandenburg Gate & the Reichstag

When it comes to what to see in Berlin in 2 days, no trip would be complete without seeing two of the city’s most iconic landmarks – Brandenburg Gate & the Reichstag.

Even though I had never been to Berlin before, Brandenburg Gate was a landmark that I immediately knew about and associated with the city.

Well I can tell you it’s even more impressive in person.

Even though I loved the Brandenburg Gate for its symbolism, I think the Reichstag is much more striking. This building is massive with a beautiful glass dome right in the middle of it.

Unfortunately I couldn’t get into the Reichstag as you needed to be on a tour, but the images of the inside are draw-dropping. This is definitely one of the best photo spots in the city, so if you can get a tour to the Reichstag I really recommend you do.  

Both the Brandenburg Gate and the Reichstag (the seat of government in Germany) are two places you just have to add to your Berlin itinerary.  

Where to stay in Berlin  

Here are a few places I’d recommend where to stay in Berlin . For these I’ve gone for one budget (less than £50 per night), one mid-range (£100-200 per night) and one luxury hotel (£200+ per night).

Generator Berlin Mitte – I know what you’re thinking, that this is a hostel. It’s so much more than that though. This is a luxury hostel right in the heart of Berlin and it’s an amazing place to stay at. It’s trendy, it’s fun, it’s cool. Oh, and it’s cheap too. It’s very near the station so getting around the city is very easy and there’s a vibrant hostel bar too.

Hotel Indigo Berlin: East Side Gallery – This is the hotel I stayed at while in Berlin and I loved it. Hotel Indigo is next door to the East Side Gallery (I could actually see it fro my room) and Kreuzberg is just a short walk around the corner. Delicious breakfast and free mini-bar were the icing on the cake for me but I’d really recommend this place. A room costs around £99 per night which I think is great value for money. If you’ve only got 48 hours in Berlin then this is a great place to base yourself.

Hotel Adlon Kempinski Berlin – The quintessence of luxury lodging, the Adlon is a legendary 5-star hotel situated in Berlin ‘s Mitte, beside the Brandenburg Gate . Basically, you’re right in the heart of the city with everything going on around you. Also, the hotel restaurant Lorenz Adlon Esszimmer is a 2 Michelin-starred restaurant – what more could you want! Prices start around £240 per night depending on when you want to stay here.

I’ve also written about the best hotels in Berlin . Click on the link and it’ll take you to the trendiest and coolest places to stay at in the city – hopefully you’ll love them!

Tours in Berlin

Berlin packing list.

As you can imagine, I travel a lot. It comes with the territory of being a travel blogger! That being said, there are some things that I now can’t travel without. If you’re planning your Berlin 2 day itinerary, I’d really recommend taking these items with you:

• Sunglasses: Mens | Womens – These are an absolute must as soon as you step off the plane, holiday mode very firmly on!
• Cool felt hat – I always love travelling with a hat these days, especially during summer when the sun’s out.
• Rain jacket: Mens | Womens – Sorry guys, but it’s always a good idea to travel with a pac-a-mac or rain jacket that packs down small. Fingers crossed you won’t need to use it.
• Bum bag – Very easy and simple for wandering around a city and it means you can leave a big bag at the hotel room.
• Sleep mask – 100% take this with me on every trip.
• Ear plugs – Even if you’re staying in a 5* hotel, you might need ear plugs.

• Water bottle – I am a water bottle convert and I barely leave the house without one now. This is a great water bottle with a built in straw – it’s surprisingly handy!
• Waterproof phone carrier – Another game changer. I always use this when I’m on the beach to protect my phone from sand or when I’m kayaking to protect it from water.
• Portable charger – Does anyone travel without these now? This one is my favourite – just make sure you charge it before you get on the plane!
• Jabra earbuds – After trying so many different types of earbuds, these are now my go-to ones. Great for wandering around a city.
• Multi-adapter plug – This is the one item you’re most likely to forget.

My trip to Germany was in association with Visit Germany and Visit Berlin for their #GermanSummerStories campaign highlighting some of the best cities to visit in Germany in the summer. As always, views are entirely my own and without bias.

If you’re travelling around Germany, then make sure you check out my guides to Dresden , Dusseldorf , Munich , Nuremberg and Stuttgart .

Are you planning on spending 2 days in Berlin? If so, what are you looking forward to doing? Let me know in the comments below!

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About the Author

Macca Sherifi is the founder of the multiple award-winning blogs An Adventurous World and the Great British Bucket List. Every month he inspires over 200,000 avid readers to travel the world.

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Berlin 2 Days Itinerary: The Ultimate Guide For First-Time Visitors

This is one of the big cities in Europe. Seeing all of Berlin in 2 days is not possible. But you can get a taste of what Berlin has to offer.

Berlin is one of the big cities in Europe and seeing all of Berlin in 2 days is not possible. But what is possible is to get a taste of what Berlin has to offer. The former divided capital of Europe stands today as a testimony of the hardships that divided the entire Europe up to the 90’s. 

Today, Berlin doesn’t has many historical buildings on display, as it was destroyed during the war, but it does has plenty to see if you’re into the Nazi history of Germany. 

What I find most interesting about Berlin is that it tries its best to pay tribute to those targeted by its former regime. Berlin is a city of monuments and sadness, but history is not to be forgotten or repeated. 

Where to stay in Berlin?

In the first 30 years after the collapse of the Berlin Wall, Berlin was a big attraction for anyone looking for a cheap city in Germany. Even Berlin Mitte was an affordable place to stay for tourists and locals alike. 

Today, If you’re wondering where to stay in Berlin, I’d recommend a place that you can afford, close to an S-Bahn or U-Bahn station. Berlin has a great public transport system, and since prices have gotten crazy in the centre of the city, you’re best bet for a comfortable stay in Berlin is further from the centre but close to public transport. 

Some of the best neighbourhoods to stay in Berlin are Kreutzberg, Wedding, and Mitte if you can afford it, and I’d personally recommend Lichtenberg as a quiet place to stay for a weekend in Berlin. 

How many days in Berlin

After visiting Berlin more than five times and having stayed up to 3 weeks at a time, I would say that you’d need at least 2 to 3 days to explore Berlin on your first visit. It’s worth noting that Berlin is quite different to most other European cities, and some visitors don’t find it that appealing. 

If you’re not keen on visiting museums, and recent European history makes you sad beyond reason, then Berlin will not be a good holiday destination for you, and more than 2 days will be too much in Berlin. 

Top Berlin attractions

Berlin itinerary for 2 days.

That’s why I want to focus on the Berlin 2 days itinerary as a starting point for anyone looking to explore Berlin for the first time. This can then be turned into 3 days in Berlin or longer if you want to explore more because there are plenty of spots to explore in the city. But these 2 days in Berlin are enough to give a pretty complete picture of what Berlin is all about.  

Some years ago, I asked some locals to summarise Berlin in one word, and it was pretty surprising what they answered. 

Day 1: Historical Berlin

9:00 am: Brandenburg Gate

How to get there: Get the metro to Brandenburger Tor. 

When: This is a public space, and it’s open 24/7, but going early in the morning will give you the best light for pictures and fewer crowds.  

Start your trip with a visit to this iconic Berlin landmark. A symbol of German unity, the Brandenburg Gate is a must-see and provides excellent photo opportunities. This is the place we’ll see in the famous 89’ David Hasselhoff´s legendary performance. 

The gate was built between 1788 and 1791, following the orders of Prussian king Frederick William II. Designed by Carl Gotthard Langhans, the gate was inspired by the Propylaea, the gateway to the Acropolis in Athens. 

During the Cold War, the gate stood desolate, right near the Berlin Wall, separating East from West Berlin. It became a symbol of a divided city and country. With the fall of the Berlin Wall in 1989, the gate transformed into an emblem of unity and freedom.

The gate consists of twelve Doric columns, forming five passageways. The columns are made of sandstone and are about 15 meters high. 

The most striking feature is the Quadriga, a sculpture of a chariot drawn by four horses, led by Victoria, the Roman goddess of victory. Initially, the sculpture faced the palace of the Prussian monarchs but was turned around to face the city after Napoleon’s defeat in 1814.

Today, the Brandenburg Gate is not just an architectural masterpiece but a venue for various cultural events and political demonstrations . It’s a gathering point for New Year’s Eve celebrations, and various other public events and performances take place here throughout the year.

The area around the gate is pedestrian-friendly, making it easy for you to take your time, snap photos, and soak in the atmosphere. 

If you have the time, I’d recommend checking it again during the evening, when the gate is illuminated, and it provides a different but equally compelling aesthetic. 

10:00 am: Reichstag Building

Cost: Free. But you need to book your visit in advance here .  

How to get there: A 5-minute walk from Brandenburg Gate.

I’d recommend visiting the Reichstag Building because it is a unique experience that combines historical gravitas with modern innovation. 

The building underwent a significant restoration in the 1990s. Today, the Reichstag Building features a striking glass dome designed by British architect Norman Foster. 

This transparent dome not only serves as a metaphor for the transparency of government but also offers visitors a gorgeous 360-degree view of Berlin’s cityscape . 

To make the most of your visit, you can pick up an audio guide that explains both the architectural elements and the political significance of the Reichstag as you ascend the spiral ramp inside the dome.

11:30 am: Memorial to the Murdered Jews of Europe (The Holocaust Memorial)

How to get there: A 10-minute walk from the Reichstag Building.

The Memorial to the Murdered Jews of Europe, also known as the Holocaust Memorial , is a poignant and thought-provoking site located in the heart of Berlin, near the Brandenburg Gate. 

Designed by architect Peter Eisenman, the memorial consists of 2,711 concrete slabs , or “stelae,” arranged in a grid pattern on a sloping field. 

The varying heights and tilted angles of the slabs create a sense of disorientation and unease , meant to symbolise the unimaginable suffering endured during the Holocaust. 

While walking through the narrow alleys between the stelae, you’ll feel enveloped in an atmosphere of solemnity and reflection. I believe that visiting the Holocaust memorial is a deeply personal experience, regardless of our religious or political convictions. 

12:30 pm: Lunch at Potsdamer Platz

Cost: Depends on lunch choice. 

How to get there: A 5-minute walk from the Holocaust Memorial.

Potsdamer Platz is a bustling square and transportation hub situated just a short walk from the Brandenburg Gate and the Memorial to the Murdered Jews of Europe. 

Once divided by the Berlin Wall, the square has been reborn as a symbol of the new, united Berlin and is now home to modern architecture, large shopping centres, and entertainment complexes. A striking feature is the Sony Center, an architectural marvel with a futuristic roof, where you’ll find cinemas, restaurants, and shops.

For your lunch, Potsdamer Platz offers a wide array of dining options , catering to all kinds of culinary preferences—from upscale restaurants serving gourmet meals to casual eateries offering local and international fare. 

It’s a perfect place to relax and people-watch while enjoying a meal, as the area is always buzzing with locals and tourists alike. 

And since you’re already here, I’d add the 

1:30 pm: Panoramapunkt Berlin

Cost: €9. Book here . 

How to get here: Get to Kollhoff Tower in the Potsdamer Platz.

Although it is not the only one, Panoramapunkt is a popular observation deck located in the Kollhoff Tower at Potsdamer Platz. 

One of its main attractions is the speedy elevator , touted as one of Europe’s fastest, which takes you to the 24th floor in just about 20 seconds . 

Once you arrive at the viewing platform, you’re greeted with stunning 360-degree views of Berlin , providing a unique vantage point to see iconic landmarks like the Brandenburg Gate, Berlin Cathedral, and even the Reichstag Building.

On the deck, you’ll find informational displays and telescopes, allowing you to get a closer look at various points of interest across the city. 

There’s also a café where you can enjoy a coffee or snack while taking in the views. 

If you’re into photography, then you should definitely add Panoramapunkt to your Berlin itinerary. The only thing that would make your visit even better is to add this stop later in the day. If your 2 days in Berlin allow it, add this stop during the evening, as it offers a fantastic opportunity to capture Berlin’s skyline, especially during sunset when the city is bathed in golden hues.

Beyond the views, Panoramapunkt also hosts exhibitions and events, adding an educational and cultural layer to your visit. It’s a great spot for both first-time visitors to get their bearings and for those already familiar with Berlin to see the city from a different perspective. With its easily accessible location at Potsdamer Platz, it fits seamlessly into any Berlin itinerary.

2:45 pm: Topography of Terror

How to get there: Walk from Potsdamer Platz for 15 minutes. 

The Topography of Terror is one of Berlin’s most impactful museums, located on the site of the former Gestapo and SS headquarters. This museum serves as a chilling reminder of the atrocities committed during the Nazi regime. 

The main exhibition is set up in a modern, minimalist building, and much of the display is also open-air, situated along the remnants of the Berlin Wall that run adjacent to the site.

The museum delves into the complex history of Nazi atrocities, offering a thorough examination through photographs, documents, and multimedia displays. 

Topics covered include the rise of the Nazi party, the suppression and persecution of various groups, and the mechanisms behind state-organized terror. There’s also a focus on the individuals who were responsible for these acts, as well as the victims who suffered under this brutal regime.

The Topography of Terror is a must-visit for those interested in understanding the darker aspects of 20th-century history. 

It’s a place that encourages deep reflection and offers a solemn space for understanding the consequences of unchecked power and the violation of human rights. The museum is free to enter, making it accessible for everyone, and audio guides are available for those who wish to delve deeper into the stories behind the exhibits.

You can spend more than 2 hours here, but I’d recommend skimming through and then continuing with the Berlin itinerary if you only have 2 days in Berlin. 

4:30 pm: Checkpoint Charlie

How to get here: Walk for 5 minutes. 

Description: Once a crossing point between East and West Berlin, this place is now a tourist attraction and a reminder of Cold War tensions.

Checkpoint Charlie is one of Berlin’s most iconic landmarks, serving as a vivid reminder of the city’s Cold War past. 

Located at the intersection of Friedrichstraße and Zimmerstraße, this former border crossing point was the site where East Germany’s communist regime met the democratic West. 

Established in 1961, it became the most famous of several checkpoints between East and West Berlin and was designated for use by foreign tourists and Allied forces personnel.

The guardhouse and signage that once marked the border crossing have been meticulously reconstructed, transforming the area into a popular tourist attraction in Berlin. 

Today, I believe that Checkpoint Charlie is a bit commercialised, with actors dressed as soldiers posing for photos. But you can’t miss it if this is your first time in Berlin, because it’s also an area of deep historical importance. 

Checkpoint Charlie witnessed several tense standoffs between U.S. and Soviet forces, and many daring escapes from East to West took place in its vicinity.

Adjacent to the checkpoint, you’ll find the Checkpoint Charlie Museum (Mauermuseum), which offers more context and history. The museum showcases a collection of artefacts related to escape attempts—from homemade hot air balloons to modified cars—and provides information about the geopolitical climate of the Cold War era. Various exhibitions, photographs, and displays inside the museum bring to life the stories of those who risked everything to escape from East to West.

5:30 pm: Berlin Wall Memorial

How to get there: Take the U-Bahn U2 from Stadtmitte, change with U8 at Alexanderplatz and get off at Bernauer Straße (20 minutes).

The Berlin Wall Memorial is a compelling historical site that c ommemorates the division of Berlin and the lives affected by the Wall. 

Located along Bernauer Straße, it stretches over 1.4 kilometres and is one of the best-preserved sections of the Wall . 

Unlike other tourist spots, this memorial offers a sombre, authentic look at the physical and emotional divisions created by the Wall.

The site features the original Wall, a “death strip,” watchtowers, and various other fortifications, all of which have been preserved to give visitors an understanding of the Wall’s grim functionality. 

As you walk along the grounds, you’ll come across various plaques and information boards that provide historical context personal stories, and explain the significance of each segment of the site.

The Documentation Center (free to visit), a part of the memorial complex, delves into the history of the Wall’s construction and the political climate that led to its erection. 

It also focuses on the lives lost in escape attempts and the impact of the Wall on daily life in both East and West Berlin.  

Interactive exhibits and haunting photographs enrich the visitor experience, offering a deeper understanding of this dark chapter in human history.

One unique feature is the Window of Remembrance, dedicated to the victims who lost their lives while trying to escape from East to West Berlin. It serves as a poignant reminder of the human costs of political decisions and ideologies.

The Berlin Wall Memorial offers an unparalleled educational and emotional journey, allowing you to grasp the complexities and tragedies of the Cold War era. 

As I said in the beginning, visiting Berlin is a difficult journey that will take you back to the past and call out extreme hopelessness feelings that once belonged to those divided by the wall. 

7:30 pm: Alexanderplatz & TV Tower

Cost: Free (€24.50 if you want to go up the tower. Book the Berlin TV Tower here .)

How to get there: Take the U-Bahn U8 from Bernauer Straße to Alexanderplatz (10 minutes).

Alexanderplatz, commonly known as “Alex,” is a large public square and transportation hub in the central Mitte district of Berlin. 

It’s one of the city’s most visited areas, bustling with shops, restaurants, and attractions. 

Named after the Russian Tsar Alexander I , the square has undergone significant transformations over the years and is now a modern space that serves as a meeting point for both locals and tourists. If you want to stay in the centre of Berlin, this is the spot. 

The most iconic structure overlooking Alexanderplatz is the Berlin TV Tower or Fernsehturm. 

Built between 1965 and 1969 by the government of East Germany, this 368-meter (1,207-foot) tower is the tallest structure in Germany and the second tallest in the European Union. 

Its spherical observation deck, located at a height of 203 meters, provides stunning 360-degree views of the city. You’ll notice the huge queue for visiting the Berlin TV tower. I’d recommend booking your ticket in advance here .

Inside the TV Tower, you’ll find a bar and a rotating restaurant that completes a full turn every 30 minutes, offering diners a constantly changing view as they enjoy their meal. 

The tower itself is not just an architectural marvel but also a symbol of Berlin’s historical and cultural evolution. It was originally intended to demonstrate the strength and efficiency of a socialist society, but today it stands as a universal Berlin icon, drawing tourists from all over the world. 

However, if you want to have the best view of Berlin, with the tower in sight, then I would recommend skipping the TV tower and instead visiting the Panorama Terrace at the Park Inn Berlin at Alexanderplatz. The rooftop has a €6.00 entry ticket (ask at the Service Desk in the lobby of the hotel). 

Day 2: Cultural Berlin

9:00 am: Pergamon Museum

Cost: €12  

How to get there: Take the U-Bahn to Museumsinsel 

Observation:  The Pergamonmuseum closes completely to visitors on 23 October 2023 (for renovations). Only the Panorama remains open for visitors, which shows the ancient city of Pergamon on the west coast of Asia Minor.

The Pergamon Museum is a must-visit for first-timers in Berlin because it houses one of the world’s most significant collections of ancient artefacts, making it an incredible journey through history and culture. 

The museum is located on Museum Island, which is itself a UNESCO World Heritage site, adding an extra layer of historical significance to your visit. 

One of the museum’s standout exhibits is the Pergamon Altar, an ancient Greek temple facade that leaves visitors awestruck with its intricate details and grandeur. 

The museum also features the impressive Ishtar Gate of Babylon and the Market Gate of Miletus, allowing you to traverse different civilisations under one roof. 

Visiting the Pergamon Museum provides not only an educational experience but also a sense of wonder, making it an unmissable highlight for anyone looking to delve into the rich tapestry of human history on their first trip to Berlin.

11:00 am: Berlin Cathedral

How to get there: A 5-minute walk from Pergamon Museum.

The Berliner Dom, or Berlin Cathedral, is a fantastic place for first-time visitors to Berlin. 

First of all, its stunning Baroque architecture is a visual treat, serving as a prime example of Germany’s rich historical and artistic heritage. 

As you enter, the intricate interior with its magnificent dome, ornate pulpit, and grand organ immediately captures your attention, giving you a glimpse into the city’s religious and aesthetic sensibilities. 

Besides its architectural splendour, the cathedral also offers an excellent opportunity for panoramic views of the city. 

You can climb up to the dome’s observation deck, which provides a 360-degree vantage point to see key landmarks like the TV Tower, Museum Island, and the River Spree. 

Note that the cathedral often hosts concerts and events . If you’re lucky enough to attend one of its concerts, your Berlin visit will get a musical and cultural dimension.

1:00 pm: East Side Gallery

How to get there: Take the S-Bahn S5 from Hackescher Markt to Warschauer Straße (15 minutes).

The East Side Gallery is a remarkable open-air gallery in Berlin that consists of a 1.3-kilometer stretch of the Berlin Wall , making it the longest preserved section of the Wall. 

Located along the River Spree in Friedrichshain, it serves as a vibrant canvas featuring over 100 murals and graffiti artworks from artists around the world. Created shortly after the fall of the Berlin Wall in 1990, the gallery is a symbol of freedom and the end of divided Germany.

Each artwork carries its own message and emotion, touching on themes such as freedom, unity, and political commentary . 

One of the most famous pieces is Dmitri Vrubel’s “My God, Help Me to Survive This Deadly Love,” which depicts the fraternal kiss between Leonid Brezhnev and Erich Honecker. The art here is not just visually striking but also steeped in history, serving as a living testimony to a tumultuous period.

This site is not only a must-visit for art enthusiasts but also for anyone interested in Berlin’s complex history and its transformation over the years. Best of all, it’s free to visit and open year-round, making it a flexible option for any Berlin itinerary.

3:00 pm: Kreuzberg Neighborhood

How to get there: Walk from East Side Gallery.

Kreuzberg is one of Berlin’s most eclectic and vibrant neighbourhoods, known for its alternative culture, edgy street art, and diverse population. 

Located just south of the city centre, it’s a melting pot of various cultures, making it a great area for global cuisine, particularly Turkish food, given the neighbourhood’s large Turkish community.

One of the main attraction points in Kreuzberg is the Landwehr Canal, a picturesque waterway perfect for leisurely strolls or boat trips. 

The canal is lined with cafes and bars where you can sit and watch the world go by. 

For those interested in history, the Jewish Museum in Kreuzberg offers a deep dive into Jewish history and culture, housed in a striking building designed by architect Daniel Libeskind. If you’re looking for green spaces, Viktoriapark offers a lovely hillside setting with a waterfall, providing excellent views over the city.

When it comes to nightlife, the area around Oranienstrasse and Görlitzer Park is a hub of activity, teeming with bars, clubs, and eateries that stay open until the early hours. 

Görlitzer Park itself is a popular meeting spot for young people and often hosts various outdoor activities like picnics and small-scale concerts.

Kreuzberg itinerary  

From East Side Gallery, walk to Görlitzer Park to explore a bit, then head to Markthalle Neun to see a local market and find a spot for lunch. 

I’d recommend Sahara Imbiss Sudanesische Spezialitäten if you love falafel and can eat peanut sauce. It’s my favourite spot to eat in Berlin (they have multiple locations.) 

Then continue to SO36 bar, a historic bar in Berlin (it’s closed during the day) where artists like David Bowie and Iggy Pop used to frequent this place.  Then continue towards U Kottbusser Tor. 

From there, walk on Kottbusser Str up to the next stop on this itinerary, Tempelhof. Or you can take the U-Bahn for 4 stops up to Leinestraße.

7:00 pm: Tempelhofer Feld

How to get here: You can enter from all sides; if you’re coming by U-Bahn from Kreuzberg, you need to get to Leinestraße stop. 

Tempelhofer Feld is one of Berlin’s most unique public spaces , originally serving as an airport before its transformation into an enormous urban park.  

Covering 300 hectares, this park has a variety of recreational activities that make it a cool place to visit. Whether you’re interested in cycling, skateboarding, or even kite-flying, the expansive runways provide ample space for all sorts of activities.

What sets Tempelhofer Feld apart is its blend of history and modern urban living. 

The site was once an airport terminal built during the Nazi regime and later played a crucial role in the Berlin Airlift. Nowadays, it’s an example of Berlin’s progressive urban planning, having been saved from development through a public referendum and turned into a park for the community.

The openness of the space makes it an ideal hangout spot with friends. 

Many Berliners come here for picnics, barbecues, and, yes, enjoying a beer while watching the sunset.  

In Germany, it’s generally allowed to have a beer in public areas like parks, making Tempelhofer Feld a popular spot for casual get-togethers and relaxed afternoons.

In addition to leisure activities, the park also hosts a variety of events and festivals throughout the year, from food markets to music concerts, adding to its appeal as a social gathering point.

All in all, Tempelhofer Feld is more than just a park—it’s a slice of Berlin’s multifaceted culture. 

Since this is a huge space, I’d recommend coming here with your bike so you can explore more of it. Check the public transport section to see how to get a bike while in Berlin. 

Practical Berlin Travel Tips

Public transport.

Berlin has a great public transport system, which consists of trams, buses, and trains. All public transport uses the same ticketing system – VBB. 

There are three zones in Berlin (A, B and C). The Berlin Airport is in Zone C, but all the other Berlin attractions are in Zone A and B. 

You can purchase a single ticket, a short trip ticket, a short trip ticket, or a daily ticket. It’s worth noting that if you’re planning to take public transport more than 3 times during a day, it might be worth it to buy the 24-hour ticket. 

Unless you’re travelling to or from the airport (which is in zone C), get the AB ticket for either a single ticket or a day ticket. 

In Berlin, the daily ticket is a 24-hour ticket, which is valid from the moment you stamp it at the station (see the yellow machines for stamping) up to the next day at the same hour. 

You can either buy the tickets from the machines in each station or use the VGG app . 

Public bikes in Berlin

If the weather is nice, you can also rent a bike in Berlin. There are many companies offering bike rental – Tier, NextBike, Bolt, Lime Bike, and Donkey Republic. 

I have tried Donkey Republic , and I was pleased with the service. Depending on your schedule, you can pay as you ride or get a monthly subscription to the service. Check it out and see which offer works best for you.  

Bolt is also very easy to use, and you might already have the app on your phone, as Bolt is a very popular taxi service app in Europe. 

Berlin food

Germany isn’t a world-famous destination for foodies (my humble personal opinion), but it is famous for its currywurst.

You’ll find different currywurst locations (e.g., Curry 61 in Berlin Mitte is a good location) scattered throughout the city. Most of them also offer vegan options, which is a delight for me because I don’t eat meat. Curry 36 is another popular one. It’s up to you and your Berlin itinerary to find the most convenient Berliner wurst place for you.

It’s not the most health-conscious meal, especially if you get a menu with fries, mayo and ketchup, but you can’t truly feel the Berlin spirit without a wurst, can you?!

Other resources

If you have more time in Berlin and wish to explore more of this multicultural city, then I have a few self-guided walking tour guides for you:

•   Berlin Before and After the Wall: How the West Won (and Where It Got Them)
• Berlin Before and After the Wall: Central Berlin  
• Berlin Before and After the Wall: Berlin’s Culture 

These are more in-depth guides that take you to specific locations, some of which are not so popular with tourists. 

Iulia Vasile

Iulia is a travel expert, blogger, engineer, freelance copywriter, and a curiosity-driven personality. She sees travel as the ultimate tool for self-improvement and personal growth, and that's the main topic of her blog, Juliasomething.com.

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What to see in Berlin in 2 days

Updated: Apr 13

Your 2-day itinerary with all the places to visit in Berlin in 2 days.

Embark on an extraordinary 2-day sojourn through Berlin, where history, culture, and hidden gems intertwine to create an unforgettable experience that goes beyond the ordinary tourist trail.

Day One: Unraveling Berlin's Icons

Morning Exploration:

Start your Berlin odyssey with a half-day walking tour that peels back the layers of history: The iconic Brandenburg Gate, the architectural marvel of the Reichstag Building, and the poignant Holocaust Memorial set the stage. Meander along the remnants of the Berlin Wall, traverse Checkpoint Charlie, and absorb the elegance of Gendarmenmarkt. Immerse yourself in the cultural haven of Museum Island, bask in the glory of the Berlin Cathedral, and explore the reborn Humboldt Forum. Note that if you want to visit the Reichstag Dome afterwards, you'll need to book ahead!

Lunch Indulgence:

As the morning unfolds into noon, satiate your appetite at a local gem. Consider options like Lutter & Wegner  near Gendarmenmarkt for traditional German fare or Nante Eck  for a cozy, authentic atmosphere.

Afternoon Delight:

Trade bustling landmarks for a leisurely stroll through the expansive Tiergarten. Relax at a picturesque beer garden like Cafe am Neuen See  before hopping on the 100 bus to explore West Berlin. Marvel at the Victory Column, delve into the history of the Kaiser-Wilhelm-Gedächtniskirche, and indulge in retail therapy along the upscale Kurfürstendamm. Complete your West Berlin experience with gourmet delights at the iconic KaDeWe  gourmet floor.

Dinner and Evening Magic:

As the sun sets, savor a delightful dinner at a local restaurant. Since you're already in West Berlin, head to Savignyplatz for an overload of nice restaurants. Fancy something other than German? Walk down Kantstraße for Berlin's best Asian restaurants! If you're in the mood for a cultural night, consider the dazzling performances at Friedrichstadtpalast  or the soul-soothing tunes at the Philharmonic . Alternatively, if you prefer a more intimate setting, delve into the charm of Berlin's eckkneipen (corner pubs). These cozy, unassuming spots are scattered throughout the city, offering a genuine taste of local nightlife. Engage with locals, try regional brews, and absorb the authentic Berliner atmosphere.

Day Two: Unveiling Hidden Gems

Day two invites you to discover Berlin's hidden treasures with a walking tour off the beaten path :

Explore the poignant stories behind the Rosenstrasse Protest Memorial, immerse yourself in the artistry of Schwarzenberg Hof, and wander the enchanting Grosse Hamburger Straße. Discover hidden gems like Sophien Church and the Martin Luther King Plaque.

Brunch Indulgence:

As the morning unfolds, treat yourself to a leisurely brunch at a local hotspot. Consider options like the cozy House of Small Wonder  for a unique culinary experience or Silo Coffee  for a relaxed atmosphere.

Afternoon Tranquility:

Stroll through the charming courtyards of Hackescher Markt and delve into the poignant history of the Berlin Wall Memorial at Bernauer Straße. Combine this with my Berlin Wall tour for a truly immersive experience.

Dinner and Culinary Delights:

As the day winds down, explore local dinner options. Savor the diverse culinary offerings with dinner at acclaimed eateries such as Lokal  or Katz Orange  for a contemporary twist on German cuisine.

Evening Enchantment:

As the sun sets over Berlin, dive into the city's vibrant nightlife, starting with a visit to the craft beer haven, Vagabund Brauerei  in the heart of Kreuzberg. Savor a selection of innovative, locally brewed beers in a cozy atmosphere. Engage in conversations with fellow patrons or simply enjoy the laid-back ambience.

After indulging in crafty delights, consider exploring Berlin's dynamic music scene. Head over to Lido , a popular venue known for its diverse musical offerings. Whether you're into indie, electronic beats, or live performances, Lido has something for every music enthusiast. Check their schedule for upcoming events and discover emerging talents or enjoy performances by established artists.

As you wrap up your evening adventure, take a leisurely stroll through the illuminated streets of Kreuzberg . Witness the city's energy come alive at night, leaving you with unforgettable memories of Berlin's diverse and dynamic spirit.

Conclusion: Crafting Your Berlin Tale

In the span of two days, you've not merely glimpsed Berlin's iconic landmarks; you've unearthed the soul-stirring stories and discovered hidden gems that make this city truly enchanting. As the Berliners say, "Tschüss!" Your Berlin tale has only just begun, and the city's rich tapestry awaits your return. Until next time, immerse yourself in the echo of Berlin's history and culture, for it's a journey that lingers in the heart.

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Free Walking Tour Berlin

When:  Every day 10am & 12pm every day Where: The meeting point is in front of the ehemaliges Kaiserliches Postfuhramt Berlin, Oranienburger Straße, 10117 Berlin, Germany, next to the entrance. Price:  Free

Discovering the Best of Berlin in 2 Days

by Original Berlin Tours | Mar 7, 2024 | Original Berlin

Day 1: Exploring the Historic Sights

1. brandenburg gate.

The iconic Brandenburg Gate is a must-see attraction when visiting Berlin. This famous neoclassical monument served as the symbol of Berlin during the Cold War and is now a symbol of unity. Marvel at the grandeur of this historic landmark and take memorable photos to capture your visit.

2. Reichstag Building

A short walk from the Brandenburg Gate, you’ll find the Reichstag Building, home to the German Parliament. Visitors can enjoy panoramic views of the city from its glass dome. Remember to reserve your free entry ticket in advance to avoid long queues.

3. Museum Island

Located in the heart of Berlin, Museum Island is a UNESCO World Heritage site and a cultural treasure trove. Home to five world-renowned museums, including the Pergamon Museum and the Neues Museum, art and history enthusiasts will be captivated by the extensive collections housed here.

4. Checkpoint Charlie

Experience a piece of Berlin’s Cold War history at Checkpoint Charlie. This former border crossing between East and West Berlin offers insights into the division of the city. Explore the Checkpoint Charlie Museum to learn more about the stories and events that unfolded during this tumultuous time.

Day 2: Art, Culture, and Nature

1. east side gallery.

A visit to Berlin wouldn’t be complete without a walk along the East Side Gallery. This open-air art gallery features murals painted on a remaining portion of the Berlin Wall. Take your time to appreciate the poignant and thought-provoking artworks created by artists from around the world.

2. Museum Berggruen

If you’re an art lover, a visit to Museum Berggruen is highly recommended. Housing works by modern masters such as Picasso, Matisse, and Klee, this museum offers a serene and intimate atmosphere to appreciate their exceptional pieces. Don’t miss the beautiful sculpture garden, perfect for a peaceful stroll.

3. Tiergarten

Escape the bustling city and explore the expansive Tiergarten, Berlin’s largest park. This green oasis is perfect for a leisurely walk, picnic, or bike ride. Look out for the iconic Victory Column and enjoy the tranquility of the park’s many pathways, gardens, and lakes.

4. Charlottenburg Palace

Marvel at the opulence of Charlottenburg Palace, the largest palace in Berlin. Explore the stunning baroque architecture, splendid gardens, and historical artifacts within its walls. Take a stroll through the beautifully manicured gardens or enjoy a coffee in one of the palace’s charming cafes.

Additional Tips for Exploring Berlin

If you only have 2 days in Berlin, it’s important to make the most of your time. Here are a few additional tips to help you plan your trip:

1. Use Public Transportation

Berlin has an excellent public transportation system, including buses, trams, and trains. Purchase a Berlin WelcomeCard to enjoy unlimited travel within the city, including discounts to various attractions. This will help you navigate the city efficiently and save time.

2. Try Local Cuisine

Don’t leave Berlin without trying some of its delicious local cuisine. From currywurst to Döner kebabs, there are plenty of street food stalls and restaurants offering a taste of Berlin’s culinary delights. Don’t be afraid to ask locals for their recommendations.

3. Plan Ahead

With only 2 days, it’s essential to plan your itinerary in advance. Prioritize the attractions you want to see the most and make a rough schedule. This will help you make the most of your limited time and avoid any disappointments.

4. Take a Guided Tour

If you want to learn more about Berlin’s rich history, consider taking a guided tour. Knowledgeable guides can offer valuable insights and take you to places you might not have discovered on your own. Choose a tour that aligns with your interests, whether it’s a walking tour, bike tour, or bus tour.

With just 2 days in Berlin, you can experience a taste of the city’s vibrant history, culture, and art. Remember to pack comfortable walking shoes, dress appropriately for the weather, and keep a water bottle handy to stay hydrated while exploring. Enjoy your time in this captivating city!

Table of Contents

Thank you for reading. If you're inspired by the stories of Berlin and want to delve deeper, why not join us on our Free Berlin Walking Tour ? It's a wonderful way to immerse yourself in the city's rich history and vibrant culture. We look forward to welcoming you soon.

WHAT TO EXPECT

• 3.5 hours walking tour
• Berlin’s major highlights
• Brandenburg Gate
• Reichstag and Berlin Wall
• Historical sites

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Experience the Best of Berlin in a 2-Days Tour with Far Corners EU

Tour details

Get ready to explore the captivating city of Berlin with Far Corners EU's exclusive 2-day tour package. Immerse yourself in Berlin's vibrant culture and rich history as we take you to some of the most iconic landmarks and historically significant sites. From the Brandenburg Gate and the Berlin Wall to the Sachsenhausen concentration camp, our expert guide will lead you on a journey through time, deepening your understanding of this remarkable city's past and present. With Far Corners EU, experience Berlin like never before and create unforgettable memories that will last a lifetime.

Embark on a Journey Through Time with Far Corners EU's 2-Day Tour Package in Berlin

Discover the fascinating history of Berlin with Far Corners EU's exclusive 2-day tour package. Our carefully crafted itinerary takes you to some of the most iconic and historically significant sites in Berlin, ensuring a truly unforgettable experience.

Day 1: Uncover Berlin's Iconic Landmarks and Vibrant Culture

8:30 AM:  Begin your adventure with us, as we pick you up from Amsterdam or another location in The Netherlands and drive toward Germany. Enjoy a quick break for tea, or coffee, or to freshen up before continuing your journey to Berlin. Check into your hotel and get ready for an exciting day ahead.

Explore the city's vibrant culture and rich history with our expert guide on a city tour. Discover the iconic landmarks such as the Brandenburg Gate, Berlin Wall, and the Reichstag building, and learn about the city's fascinating past.

Day 2: Journey Through Time at Sachsenhausen Concentration Camp and Beyond

9:00 AM: After breakfast, join us on a visit to the Sachsenhausen concentration camp, a poignant reminder of the atrocities committed during the Nazi regime. Gain a deeper understanding of the concentration camp's role in World War II and its impact on the German people.

We'll leave the camp latest by noon to head back toward The Netherlands, but not before experiencing the best of Berlin's rich history and culture.

Discover an unparalleled holiday experience with Far Corners EU

by booking the perfect package tailored to your preferences. Our holiday packages are meticulously designed to ensure you enjoy a stress-free vacation with your loved ones. Whether you're looking for a budget-friendly option or a luxurious getaway, we have customized packages that cater to your specific travel style and budget. Trust us to provide a vacation that goes beyond your imagination.

Far Corners EU is committed to providing transparent pricing for our Berlin tour package. The price per adult is €375.00 , while the price per child (up to 10 years old) is €275.00 .

For guests opting for a single occupancy room, there is an additional charge of €50.00 .

It is important to note that all prices are based on a minimum of eight (08) participants and are subject to change without prior notice. Rest assured, we will always inform you of any changes to the prices and ensure complete transparency in our pricing policy.

• Transportation in a Van/Car with a maximum of 8 passengers.
• Hotel 3/4 stars with breakfast – Twin/Double/Triple bed.

This section highlights the inclusions that are part of the Berlin tour package offered by Far Corners EU. You can enjoy comfortable transportation in a van or car with a maximum of eight passengers, ensuring a cozy and personalized experience. Additionally, you'll be staying at a 3 or 4-star hotel that offers breakfast and comfortable sleeping arrangements in twin, double, or triple beds. Our inclusions are designed to make your vacation hassle-free and enjoyable, allowing you to focus on making lasting memories in Berlin.

Meals and all other additional expenses are at your own cost. Please plan accordingly and budget for any additional expenses you may incur during your tour. Our team is happy to provide recommendations on local restaurants and activities to enhance your experience in Berlin.

At Far Corners EU , we strive to make your travel experience as seamless and enjoyable as possible. To that end, we want to ensure complete transparency in our pricing policy.

• Please note that all prices are based on a minimum of eight (08) participants and are subject to change without prior notice. We will inform you of any changes to the prices and work with you to find the best solution. 
• Far Corners EU takes great care in planning and executing our tours, and all tours will be performed as scheduled/planned. However, it is important to note that we cannot be held responsible for any natural or unforeseen circumstances that may impact the tour, including but not limited to weather, traffic delays, road repair work, mechanical issues, or political events. As such, we are unable to provide refunds or optional/future tours in such situations. 
• To ensure a smooth booking experience, we kindly request that you confirm all details at the earliest and provide us with the full names, date of birth, mobile contact, email, and pick-up address of all participants.
• If you need to cancel your booking, please note that a 50% penalty will be deducted if cancellation is made after confirmation and payment transfer, plus €50.00 per booking towards administration and booking costs. We request that cancellations be made at least 10 days before the tour.
• Please note that if you require any additional services beyond the scheduled tour time, an additional charge of €75.00 per hour will be applied.
• When preparing for your trip, it is important to bring appropriate warm clothing such as an umbrella, caps, mufflers, gloves, and warm leggings that are suitable for the weather and the country you will be visiting.
• Additionally, please ensure that you carry your passport or valid ID, along with any necessary EU residence permits/visas.
• At Far Corners EU, we pride ourselves on performing all European tours in accordance with European law.

Should you have any questions or concerns, please do not hesitate to contact our dedicated team on our WhatsApp or email us at  [email protected] . We are always available to assist you in any way we can.

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Best Itinerary for 2 Days in Berlin

Do you have 2 days in Berlin and are not sure how to spend it? Don’t worry, we have got you covered!

Berlin is a really interesting city, no matter if you are visiting as a family, couple, or as a solo traveller.

Our family has visited several times and in different seasons, so we definitely know what we are talking about.

From awesome architecture to interesting historical spots, amazing museums, yummy food and great nightlife, Berlin has it all.

Interested in learning more? Let’s dive in!

Two Days in Berlin Itinerary – Quick Guide

If you are in a hurry, here’s a quick list of the best places to visit in Berlin in two days:

• The Brandenburg Gate – A historic symbol of Berlin, once dividing East and West, now a landmark of unity and peace.
• The Holocaust Memorial – Is an evocative field of 2,711 concrete slabs, designed to honour and remember the six million Jewish victims of the Holocaust.
• Museum Island – Is a unique ensemble of five museums on an island in the Spree River, showcasing art and artifacts from ancient civilizations to 19th-century art.
• The Berliner Fernsehturm – Berlin’s iconic TV tower offers panoramic views of the city from its revolving restaurant and observation deck.
• The East Side Gallery – Is a colourful section of the Berlin Wall turned into an outdoor mural exhibit.

48 Hours in Berlin – Map

The map shows the stops that are suggested on this two-day itinerary. We tried to group activities close enough together so that you wouldn’t be running all over the place.

Clicking on the map above will take you to Google Maps. There, you will be able to see the destinations in better detail.

What to Do in Berlin for 2 Days

With a full two days in Berlin, you can see and do quite a bit. But we did try and make the days a little less busy.

However, if you do find that you have some extra time, we will include some additional activities at the end of this post that you can tack onto your itinerary.

Day one involves quite a bit of walking. While you can hop on public transportation (more on that later), it is totally doable on foot (which is exactly what we did).

1. Stroll Through the Tiergarten

The Tiergarten , or ‘Animal Garden,’ is a 520-acre park located right in the middle of Berlin. It was very reminiscent of New York’s Central Park!

The park has about 5 km of wonderful pathways to stroll, go for a run, or cycle along.

You will also find places to rent boats, amazing picnic areas, as well as a popular Biergarten!

And just like with Central Park, you will also find a Zoo. The Berlin Zoo, one of the largest in Europe, can be found adjacent to the Tiergarten.

We really enjoyed strolling through the Tiergarten during our summertime visit to Berlin.

It is definitely a must-see and is the perfect spot to stop, rest, and enjoy nature, before continuing to explore the city.

Location: Straße des 17. Juni/B2/B5

Victory Column

Located in the middle of a busy roundabout, the  Victory Column ( Siegessäule ) can be found within the Berlin Tiergarten.

The monument was built in 1873 and moved by the Nazis during World War II.

This move likely saved the Victory Column from destruction, as its original location was decimated during the bombing of Berlin by the Allied Forces.

A small museum about the history of the Victory Column can be found inside, as well as a narrow stairway to reach the top.

The views over Berlin are definitely worth the small entrance fee!

Location:  Großer Stern, B 2, B 5, Berlin, Germany

The Soviet War Memorial

The  Soviet War Memorial  is another monument that can be found within the Berlin Tiergarten.

It is located in the larger area of the park, to the west of the city center.

The Soviet War Memorial was erected by the Soviet Union to commemorate the 80,000 soldiers of the Soviet Armed Forces, who died during the Battle of Berlin in April and May 1945.

Location:  Straße des 17. Juni/B2/B5

2. Visit the Reichstag Building

Located just north of the Brandenburg Gate, the Reichstag building is currently where the German Parliament sits.

It was destroyed by fire in 1933, and during its reconstruction in the 90s, a glass dome, representing the political transparency of the city, was added.

The entrance to Reichstag Berlin is free of charge, but you will need to book your visit well in advance!

The amazing 360-degree views of Berlin from the glass dome, alone, make the visit worthwhile.

Audio guides are available in several languages.

The guides not only provide you with information about the history of the Reichstag Building, but they also point out all the interesting sites visible from the dome.

Location: Platz der Republik 1, 11011 Berlin, Germany

3. Walk Through the Brandenburg Gate

The Brandenburg Gate is a neoclassical monument built in the 18th century.

Definitely the most iconic landmark in the city, the gate was often a site for major historical events.

Today, the gate symbolizes peace and unity, and should not be missed.

Just a heads up, the Brandenburg Gate is visited by over a million people annually, so expect crowds!

It didn’t help that during one of our visits, there was a massive stage set up right behind the gates!

Luckily, during another visit, we made the effort to visit early in the morning, and again in the late evening, just to make sure we could get some great photos!

Location:  Pariser Platz, 10117 Berlin, Germany

4. Pay Respect at the Holocaust Memorial

Located just south of the Brandenburg Gate, is the Holocaust Memorial .

Officially named the Memorial to the Murdered Jews of Europe , it is an installation made up of 2,711 concrete slabs of different heights and occupies a 19,000-square-metre (200,000 sq ft) site.

The Memorial pays respect to the Jewish victims of the Holocaust.

The artist chose to build the memorial in Berlin, as it was the city with one of the largest Jewish populations in Europe before the Second World War.

Underneath the memorial, you will also find a museum.

The “Place of Information,” holds the names of approximately 3 million Jewish Holocaust victims, obtained from the Israeli museum Yad Vashem.

I could not get over how quiet it was while walking between the rows of concrete slabs. The sounds of the city literally disappear, and you are left to your thoughts.

Location: Cora-Berliner-Straße 1, 11011 Berlin, Germany

5. View the French Cathedral

More commonly known as  Französischer Dom , meaning French cathedral , the church is located in the iconic Gendarmenmarkt.

It sits right across from the Konzerthaus and the German Cathedral.

The original portion of the church dates back to 1701.

The French Cathedral was heavily damaged during World War II, and was subsequently rebuilt between 1977 and 1981.

Today, the Französischer Dom continues to offer church services and concerts.

⛪ Fun Fact: The Französischer Dom is not actually a cathedral in the traditional sense, as there was never a Bishop who presided there. Instead, the name is derived from the German word ‘Dom’ meaning “domed,” and refers to the tower that was constructed nearly one hundred years after the church was originally built.

Location: Gendarmenmarkt 5, 10117 Berlin, Germany

6. Take a Peak at the German Cathedral

The German Cathedral , also known as Neue Kirche , is also located in Gendarmenmarkt Square.

It was originally built in the early 18th century.

However, what you see today, is a reconstruction completed in 1993 after the building was severely damaged during World War II.

The cathedral actually does not serve as a traditional church. Instead, you will find a unique exhibition on the history of German democracy inside.

The German Cathedral’s architecture is absolutely gorgeous with its lavish baroque style.

7. See Checkpoint Charlie

Checkpoint Charlie was one of the most famous crossing points between West and East Germany.

The name comes from the phonetic alphabet (Charlie meaning C), as Checkpoint Charlie was the third such border crossing set up by the Allies in the city.

Located at the intersection of Friedrichstraße and Zimmerstraße, Checkpoint Charlie is now a tourist attraction.

A copy of the guardhouse and the sign that once marked the border crossing have been reconstructed behind a sandbag barrier that would have faced the border.

You can even take photos in front of the attraction, which is manned by actors dressed as Allied military police officers.

Just be careful. Checkpoint Charlie is located in the middle of the road and can get quite crowded.

Location:  Friedrichstraße 43, Berlin BE 10969

8. Catch a Show at the Konzerthaus Berlin

Today a world-class concert hall, the Konzerthaus in Berlin, was actually a theatre for most of the 18th century.

In fact, several theatres were built and destroyed on this site before today’s Konzerthaus was opened in 1984.

Located in Gendarmenmarkt Square, the theatre has had many notable performances over the years.

In 1789, for example, Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart visited the first theatre on this site, for a performance of his opera Die Entführung aus dem Serail .

🎵 Fun Fact: The Konzerthaus in Berlin, is considered to be among the top five concert venues in the world for music and opera, in regard to acoustics.

During the Second World War, the theatre was destroyed by the bombing of the Allied Forces.

The building was restored into its current iteration as a concert hall and is now the home of the Berlin Symphony Orchestra (Konzerthausorchester Berlin).

Catching a concert would be the perfect ending to your first day in Berlin.

Location:  Gendarmenmarkt, 10117 Berlin, Germany

For your second day in Berlin, there is less walking. We have also left more time for you to spend in each of the attractions.

9. Visit Museum Island

Museum Island , or Museumsinsel , is a group of 5 world-class museums situated in the heart of Berlin.

The museum complex is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a paradise for history buffs.

And in case you were wondering, the area truly is an island created by the Spree River!

The 5 museums include the Altes Museum, the Alte Nationalgalerie, the Neues Museum, the Bode-Museum, and the Pergamon Museum.

Fun Fact: You will find some truly unique and unexpected treasures on Museum Island. The Ishtar Gate of Babylon is kept in the Pergamon Museum and the Bust of Nefertiti can be found in the  Neues Museum .

Museum Island is one of the most visited attractions in Berlin.

We did not have time to see the inside of each museum during our 2 days in Berlin.

But like many locals, we were happy enough to stroll the island and enjoy the architecture of all the buildings.

Open:  Tuesday–Sunday from 10 am to 6 pm (closed on Mondays)

10. Admire the Berliner Dom

If you enjoy gorgeous architecture, then visiting the Berliner Dom , otherwise known as the Berlin Cathedral , is a definite must!

This neo-renaissance-style church was built in 1905 and is located on Museum Island.

Once again, not technically a cathedral, The Berliner Dom is still one of the city’s most important Protestant churches.

The Cathedral sustained damage in the Second World War, but the building never collapsed.

This made it possible for the church to be restored, rather than needing to be rebuilt.

Inside, the goldwork, mosaics created from marble and onyx, and sculptures, are definitely something to be seen.

Tickets must be purchased in advance to get into the Berliner Dom.

If you are looking for some pretty spectacular views, you will find them from the top of the Berliner Dome.

Of course, that’s provided you are up to climbing the 270 cathedral steps!

Location: Am Lustgarten, 10178 Berlin, Germany

11. Climb the Berliner Fernsehturm (TV Tower)

If you want spectacular 360-degree views of Berlin, you will want to spend some time at the Berliner Fernsehturm .

At 368 meters high, the Berlin TV Tower is considered to be the tallest structure in Germany, and the third-tallest structure in the European Union.

Located near Alexanderplatz, in the middle of the city, the Fernsehturm is one of Berlin’s most recognizable landmarks.

Although it was originally a symbol of Communist power, today, it represents a unified Berlin.

The Fernsehturm attracts almost 1.2 million visitors each year and is the perfect place to sightsee or have a meal.

The revolving restaurant is available for cocktails, lunch, or dinner reservations.

You will also find a pretty big gift shop at the base of the tower for some unique souvenirs.

🍩 Insider Tip: There is an awesome little donut shop just near the base of the tower. It’s a small shop with plenty of gourmet flavours. And they were the best donuts we had while in Germany!

Location: Panoramastraße 1A, Berlin BE 10178

12. See the Berlin Wall at the East Side Gallery

The longest preserved piece of the Berlin Wall is known worldwide as the East Side Gallery.

This is where 1.3 kilometres of the former border, was transformed into the longest open-air gallery in the world.

The East Side Gallery was opened on September 28, 1990.

118 artists, from 21 countries, created over 100 murals with individual messages and statements.

The artwork represented freedom, creativity, and the happiness felt over the fall of the Wall, and the end of the division.

In November 1991, the city of Berlin added the East Side Gallery to its monument register, preserving the artwork from demolition.

It is now one of the few remaining relics of the border fortifications at its original location and serves as a reminder that the city was divided for 28 years.

But just a heads up, it’s really busy! Literal bus loads of tourists will pull up alongside the gallery.

It will be pretty hard to get that Instagram-worthy shot of the infamous “The Kiss” unless you get there pretty early in the morning.

We had to wait for at least 20 minutes to get a half-decent photo. And this was on a weekday in December!

Berlin Tour Recommendations

One of the best ways to see Berlin is on a guided tour.

Whether it’s a walking tour, bike tour, or even a food tour, a local guide will be able to show you some of the best hidden gems around the city.

Here are a few of the recommended tours:

• Discover Berlin Half-Day Walking Tour – A comprehensive tour that includes landmarks like the Brandenburg Gate, the Reichstag, and more, perfect for getting a thorough introduction to the city.
• Sachsenhausen Concentration Camp Memorial Tour – A sobering, educational tour that explores the history of the concentration camp with insights into the Third Reich.
• Berlin Bike Tour – This full-day tour includes a trip to the Berlin Wall Memorial, Checkpoint Charlie, Brandenburg Gate and more. It’s a great way to cover more ground and see the city’s highlights efficiently.
• Berlin Food Walking Tour With Secret Food Tours – This tour lets you dive into the food scene of East Berlin with a local guide. You’ll get to try a variety of dishes and snacks while learning about the neighbourhood’s history.
• Guided Original Craft Beer Tour – This 3.5-hour tour offers a deep dive into the city’s bustling craft beer scene. You’ll visit several breweries, sample a variety of unique brews, and learn about the art of beer-making from knowledgeable local guides.

Other Things to Do in Berlin

• Charlottenburg Palace: Tour this lavish palace with its beautiful gardens, a reminder of Berlin’s royal past.
• Potsdamer Platz: A modern part of Berlin with shopping centers, entertainment, and striking architecture.
• Berlin Zoo: One of the most visited zoos in Europe, home to a wide range of species.
• Kurfürstendamm: Berlin’s famous shopping boulevard, packed with boutiques, cafes, and luxury stores.
• Jewish Museum Berlin: A striking museum that explores Jewish history and culture in Germany.
• Tempelhofer Feld: A public park on a former airport site, great for biking and picnics.
• Berliner Unterwelten: Tour Berlin’s underground bunkers and tunnels for a unique look at the city’s history.
• Mauerpark: Famous for its lively Sunday flea market and outdoor karaoke sessions.
• DDR Museum: Interactive museum showcasing life in East Germany during the Cold War.
• Bauhaus Archive: Museum dedicated to the Bauhaus design movement, with artifacts, documents, and art.
• German Spy Museum: This museum provides an interactive glimpse into the world of espionage.
• Botanical Garden: One of the world’s largest botanical gardens, featuring a vast range of plant species.
• Ritter Sport Bunte Schokowelt: Customize your own chocolate bar at this colourful and interactive store. (We did this in Stuttgart and it was awesome!)

Where to Stay in Berlin

If you are looking for somewhere to stay in Berlin, the good news is that the city has a pretty great variety of hotels to suit any budget.

So whether you’re looking for a budget-friendly option or a more upscale experience, you won’t have any trouble finding the perfect accommodations in the city.

Luxury Hotels

Steigenberger hotel am kanzleramt.

Offers spacious rooms with fabulous bathrooms and high-quality bedding, located just across from the main railway station​.

Hotel Adlon Kempinski Berlin

Known for its impeccable service and luxurious amenities , this hotel takes luxury to a new level with its spacious rooms, great spa, and pool area.

Moderate Hotels

The circus hotel.

Situated in Mitte, this hotel combines affordable luxury with a central location, offering stylish rooms and a modern atmosphere.

Novotel Berlin Mitte

This family-friendly hotel is located in the heart of Berlin, offering modern rooms and amenities close to key attractions like Museum Island and Alexanderplatz.

Budget Hotels

Motel one berlin-alexanderplatz.

Known for its fabulous ratings and central location, this hotel is a great choice for budget-conscious travellers​.

Schulz Hotel Berlin Wall at the East Side Gallery

Very popular and highly rated, this hotel is known for its clean rooms and great location near historical sites.

How to Get to Berlin

Getting to Berlin is really easy, thanks to Germany’s efficient and well-connected transportation network.

Whether you’re coming in by air, train, or road, here’s how you can quickly reach this incredible city:

Berlin is served primarily by Berlin Brandenburg Airport (BER), which offers numerous domestic and international flights.

Options to get from BER to the city center include regional trains (Airport Express RE7 and RB14), S-Bahn (S9 and S45), buses, taxis, and rental cars​​.

Berlin is a major rail hub with frequent connections to all major German cities and numerous international destinations.

The main train stations are Hauptbahnhof (the central station), Ostbahnhof, and Südkreuz, offering extensive services including high-speed ICE trains.

If driving, Berlin is well-connected by highways.

Major routes include the A10 Berliner Ring, which encircles the city, and radial highways like A2, A9, and A11, which connect Berlin to other parts of Germany and Europe​.

Long-distance buses arrive at and depart from the Central Bus Station (ZOB), located in the western part of Berlin.

It’s served by many major bus companies, including FlixBus, which offers routes to numerous German cities and other European destinations​.

Getting Around Berlin

Getting around Berlin is convenient thanks to its comprehensive and efficient public transportation system. Here are the main options:

U-Bahn (Subway)

Berlin’s U-Bahn system has nine lines that serve 173 stations across the city.

It operates frequently throughout the day and less frequently at night​.

S-Bahn (Suburban Train)

The S-Bahn complements the U-Bahn by covering both city and suburban routes.

Major lines include the Ringbahn, which circles the city, and other lines that extend beyond into the greater Berlin region​.

Buses and Trams

Extensive bus and tram networks cover areas not serviced by the U-Bahn and S-Bahn.

Night buses replace U-Bahn and S-Bahn services during off-peak hours. Trams mainly operate in East Berlin.

Get a Berlin WelcomeCard!

Enjoy UNLIMITED access by public transportation, FREE entry to more than 30 attractions, plus a 1-day hop-on hop-off bus ticket with the Berlin WelcomeCard All Inclusive .

Or choose the Berlin WelcomeCard Museum Island & Public Transport for UNLIMITED travel by public transportation as well as FREE ENTRANCE to all museums on Museum Island.

Regional Trains

For travel to areas outside of Berlin, regional trains (Regionalbahn and Regionalexpress) are available and connect to surrounding cities and regions​.

Berlin is bicycle-friendly with many dedicated bike lanes and routes.

You can rent bikes from various stations around the city using apps or rental shops​.

Car Sharing and Taxis

Several car-sharing services are available throughout Berlin, and taxis can be easily hailed on the street or booked via an app.

Best Time to Visit Berlin

The best time to visit Berlin largely depends on what you’re looking for in your trip. Here’s a seasonal guide to help you decide:

Spring (March to May)

• Weather : Temperatures range from 4°C to 15°C, offering a pleasant backdrop as the city blooms.
• Pros : Ideal for outdoor activities with fewer tourists and the city in bloom. Festivals like MaerzMusik and Fashion Week may coincide with your visit.
• Cons : Weather can be unpredictable with occasional rain and chilly periods​.

Summer (June to August)

• Weather : Temperatures range from 18°C to 25°C, perfect for enjoying the outdoors.
• Pros : Vibrant street life with many festivals and outdoor cafes. Ideal for exploring parks and participating in cultural events.
• Cons : Can be crowded and prices for accommodations tend to peak due to high tourist demand.

Autumn (September to November)

• Weather : Temperatures cool down, ranging from 9°C to 19°C, with the city showcasing beautiful autumn foliage.
• Pros : Fewer crowds make for a more relaxed visit, and cultural events like Berlin Art Week and the Festival of Lights provide plenty to do.
• Cons : Days get shorter and cooler; prepare for potential rain and chilly weather​.

Winter (December to February)

• Weather : Cold, often snowy, with temperatures ranging from -2°C to 3°C.
• Pros : Beautiful winter scenery, especially charming during the Christmas markets. Less crowded and more budget-friendly.
• Cons : Very cold with short days. Outdoor activities can be less enjoyable unless well-bundled up.

2 Day Berlin Itinerary – FAQs

Yes! The city has a ton of attractions that are family-friendly. Not to mention, the culture, food, and history offer a perfect opportunity for kids to learn while having fun.

Yes! In fact, Berlin is  one of the cheapest capital cities in Europe . So even if you are visiting the city on a small budget, you don’t have to miss out on some of the best attractions like museums, operas, or famous landmarks.

Yes! Most Germans living in a larger city like Berlin have a pretty good grasp of English.

Yes, we found Berlin to be quite friendly for foreigners. The people are friendly and helpful, making it the perfect place to visit with kids.

Because there is a ton to do in Berlin, you could probably spend four or five days there. But if you only have 2 or 3 days to spend in the city, you should be able to comfortably see the major attractions.

Final Thoughts on Our 2 Days in Berlin Itinerary

And that was how we spent 2 days in Berlin Germany with kids! Hopefully, you have enjoyed this ultimate guide to a truly fantastic city.

With so many wonderful things to do, sites to see, and experiences to be had, you will definitely find something for everyone.

While spending 2 days in Berlin was a lot of fun, we would definitely recommend staying longer if it is at all possible.

We definitely wouldn’t say no to another return visit!

Pin This Post for Later!

Related Posts:

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Marianne Giordano is the founder and writer for Galavanting the Globe. Together with her husband, John, and their children, the family has travelled to 15 countries, including 27 states in the US, and all over their home country of Canada. Marianne is responsible for planning all of her family's travel itineraries and dreaming up new adventures. A Canadian native, Marianne shares all her favourite family-friendly things to do while travelling the world.

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2-Day Berlin Blitz: Icons & Insights

May 7, 2024 · 2 min read

Embark on a 2-day journey through Berlin, a city steeped in history and culture. Begin your adventure at the iconic Reichstag Building, the epitome of German political history, and spend an hour marveling at its grandeur. Next, take a short stroll to the Brandenburg Gate, a monumental symbol of unity, where you'll spend 30 minutes capturing memories. Continue to the Berlin Cathedral, a majestic church that demands an hour of your time to appreciate its architectural beauty. Dedicate the rest of your first day to Museum Island, a UNESCO World Heritage site brimming with art and history, where a full day's exploration awaits. On day two, step into the past at Checkpoint Charlie, the famed military monument, for an hour-long visit. Follow this with a reflective hour at the Berlin Wall Memorial, a poignant reminder of the city's divided past. Ascend to new heights at the Berliner Fernsehturm, where a 2-hour visit lets you gaze over the city from its popular observation deck. Conclude your Berlin experience with a 2-hour visit to the East Side Gallery, where art and history fuse on the remains of the Berlin Wall. This 2-day itinerary ensures you'll capture the essence of Berlin, from its historical landmarks to its cultural treasures.

• 2 Days in Berlin Itinerary: Day 1

Reichstag Building

Kickstart your Berlin adventure at the iconic Reichstag Building, the epitome of German political history and a symbol of reunification. With its impressive glass dome and panoramic views of the city, the Reichstag is not just a town hall but a testament to democracy. Allocate an hour to immerse yourself in the political heartbeat of Germany, marvel at the architecture, and perhaps catch a glimpse of parliamentary proceedings.

Attraction Info

• Platz der Republik 1, 11011 Berlin, Germany
• Suggested tour duration: 1-2 hour
• Open from 8:00am-10:00pm

Recommended Nearby Restaurants

Brandenburg Gate

A short stroll from the Reichstag leads you to the majestic Brandenburg Gate, an emblem of Berlin's tumultuous past and triumphant present. Spend half an hour basking in the grandeur of this neoclassical monument, which stands proudly at Pariser Platz. The gate's powerful presence and historical significance as a former city gate make it a must-see landmark that has witnessed centuries of history.

• Pariser Platz, 10117 Berlin, Germany
• Suggested tour duration: 0.5-1 hour
• Open 24 hours

Berlin Cathedral

Continue your journey through Berlin's rich history with a visit to the Berlin Cathedral, a stunning example of neo-Renaissance architecture. Set aside an hour to explore this religious and cultural treasure on Museum Island. The cathedral's elaborate facade, magnificent dome, and serene interior provide a peaceful retreat from the bustling city streets.

• Am Lustgarten, 10178 Berlin, Germany
• Open on Sun,12:00pm-5:00pm;Open on Mon-Sat,10:00am-5:00pm

Museum Island

Conclude your day with an exploration of Museum Island, a UNESCO World Heritage site that is a treasure trove of art, history, and culture. With a full day to wander through the island's five renowned museums, you'll be captivated by ancient artifacts, classical art, and intriguing exhibits. The Pergamon Museum and the Altes Museum are highlights not to be missed, each offering a unique glimpse into civilizations of the past.

• Museum Island, Berlin, Germany
• Suggested tour duration: 1 day
• Open on Tue-Sun,10:00am-6:00pm;Closed on Mon;Open from 12:00pm-6:00pm during New Year's Day

Where to Stay Tonight

Hotel nikolai residence, arcotel john f berlin.

• 2 Days in Berlin Itinerary: Day 2

Checkpoint Charlie

Kickstart your second day in Berlin with a visit to the iconic Checkpoint Charlie, the famed Cold War-era crossing point. Spend an hour immersed in the historical significance of this military monument, which once served as a symbol of the divided city. Located at Friedrichstraße 43-45, it's a poignant reminder of Berlin's past and a must-see for history enthusiasts.

• Friedrichstraße 43-45, 10117 Berlin, Germany

Berlin Wall Memorial

Continue your journey through Berlin's historical landscape with a visit to the Berlin Wall Memorial. Just an hour at this city park and museum will provide you with a deeper understanding of the city's turbulent history. Situated at Bernauer Str. 111, the memorial stands as a powerful tribute to the resilience of the human spirit in the face of separation and adversity.

• Bernauer Str. 111, 13355 Berlin, Germany
• Suggested tour duration: 1 hour

Berliner Fernsehturm

Elevate your Berlin experience by heading to the Berliner Fernsehturm, the city's celebrated observation deck. Allocate two hours to ascend this towering structure and enjoy breathtaking panoramic views of Berlin's skyline. Located at Panoramastraße 1A, it's the perfect spot to capture the essence of the city from above.

• Panoramastraße 1A, 10178 Berlin, Germany
• Suggested tour duration: 2-2.5 hour
• Open from 01/01-03/10,10:00am-11:00pm;Closed all day on 03/11;Open from 03/12-11/03,10:00am-11:00pm;Closed all day on 11/04;Open from 11/05-12/31,10:00am-11:00pm

East Side Gallery

Conclude your day with a leisurely two-hour stroll along the East Side Gallery, where art and history blend on the remnants of the Berlin Wall. This open-air gallery, located at Mühlenstraße 3-100, features a Ferris wheel and is adorned with murals that speak volumes about Berlin's journey to reunification and freedom.

• Mühlenstraße 3-100, 10243 Berlin, Germany
• Suggested tour duration: 2-3 hour

Locke at East Side Gallery

Hampton by hilton berlin city east side gallery, top things to do in berlin-2024.

Museum Island is located in the center of Berlin, on the north side of Spree Island, where many of Germany's leading museums gather, headed by the Pergamon Museum. The five museums on the island are different in shape but harmoniously unified. Flowing from both sides makes them even more majestic. In 1992, Museum Island was included in the list of World Heritage Sites by UNESCO. It may take several days to appreciate all the treasures on display on the museum island, and you can choose to visit the areas you are interested in. There are five museums on the Museum Island, which concentrate the best of German museums: next to the Palace Bridge and the Berlin Cathedral is the Alte Museum of Berlin, and in front of it stretches the Lustgarten. At the northern end are the Neues Museum and the Old National Art Gallery. On the west side is the Pergamon Museum, and on the outside is the Baud Museum.

△ The Pergamon Museum can be described as one of the most popular museums, and it is also one of the archaeological museums in the world. This gray building has a solemn appearance, which is easily reminiscent of various ancient buildings. After entering through the central gate, the left is the ancient Roman and Greek collection exhibition hall, the right is the ancient West exhibition hall, and the second floor is the Islamic culture exhibition area. Among them, the treasure of the town hall, the Pergamon-Altar, is not to be missed. The history of the altar can be traced back to the 2nd century BC. The height of the altar is 9.66 meters. In addition, the market gate of Millet in West Asia Minor around the second century BC and the city gate of Ishtar in Babylon are also worth seeing.

△ The classical building, the Altes Museum (Old Museum), designed by Karl Friedrich Schinkel in 1830 was the first museum building on the island. The museum inherits the neoclassical architectural style, the front is supported by 18 columns juxtaposed, the inner main hall is spherical, and the huge circular vault above is very eye-catching. The old museum displays art treasures of ancient Greece and Rome, and the exhibits are very rich.

△ In the Old National Art Gallery, you can admire masterpieces by Impressionist masters such as Manet, Monet and Renoir. It is considered to be one of the most comprehensive collections of art from the period between the French Revolution and the First World War.

△ The Bode Museum is located on the outside of the Museum Island. It was built between 1898 and 1904. This Baroque building adopts a triangular arrangement and contains 3 unique small museums: the Byzantine Art Museum in Germany, which gathers the Byzantine Empire period. A variety of fine art; the Currency Museum displays 500,000 ancient coins and exhibits, and the Sculpture Museum houses Germany's premier collection of medieval sculptures.

△ The Neues Museum (New Museum) was built by 1855. It was severely damaged by the bombing of World War II and became a ruin. After reopening in 2009, it was used as an Egyptian museum and a papyrus exhibition. The exhibits include the ancient Egyptian pharaoh Amenhotep IV. Bust of wife Nefertiti, and other artworks from the time of Amenhotep IV. In addition, the new museum also exhibits unearthed artifacts from prehistory, ancient history and the Stone Age.

△ In addition to visiting museums, it is also a good choice to stroll and relax on Museum Island. Luster Garden is lined with trees and has a very beautiful environment. Street performers playing beautiful music are also a beautiful scenery.

* All user reviews in this article have been translated by machine.

* The information above is subject to change at any time. For the latest information, please check the websites of hotels and attractions.

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A guide to spending 2 days in Berlin – everything you need to know

If you are looking for a European city break then why not think about spending 2 days in Berlin. It’s effortlessly cool persona, intense history, and exciting nightlife, make it a great place to discover. Berlin is much more than just the Berlin Wall or the Brandenburg gate, it’s a city full of culture, filled with museums, historical sites, and world class bars.

In this guide we provide you with everything you need to know when you are trying to see Berlin in 2 days. If you want to know about accommodation, food, drink, attractions, and getting around in Berlin then read on.

And if you are wondering if Berlin is worth visiting this article might be for you.

Disclaimer: This post does contain some affiliate links, so if you do purchase anything we may get a small commission at no extra cost to you.

Basic Information for planning 2 days in Berlin

2 days in berlin – getting here, visit the reichstag, walk under the brandenburg gate, check out the east side gallery, go inside the berliner dom, do a hop on, hop off bus tour, do a city boat tour, enjoy the views from the tv tower, see checkpoint charlie, explore museum island, learn about history at the topography of terror, interact at the ddr museum, visit charlottenburg palace.

• Walk around Natur-Park Südgelände 

Explore the Hackescher Markt 

Enjoy the views from the park inn hotel, see some art at the berggruen museum, donner kebab, traditional german style food, tajikistan tearoom, fairytale bar, maclaren’s pub, madame claude, stagger lee, schwarze traube, getting around during your 2 days in berlin, prenzlauerberg, friedrichshain, where we stayed during our 2 days in berlin, how much money do i need for my 2 day berlin itinerary, is 2 days in berlin enough, when is the best time of year to plan your 2 day berlin itinerary, tips for planning your 2 day berlin itinerary, so should i spend 2 days in berlin, if you have a chance check out some of our other posts on eastern european cities..

Here are the basics that you will need to know before spending 2 days in Berlin.

Country:  Germany

Languages Spoken:  German – English is widely spoken though

Currency:  Euro

Famous for:  History, nightlife, culture

Berlin is the capital of Germany, and is also one of the most popular cities in Germany to visit. Another cool fact is that it is also the greenest city in Germany with about 30% of the city being green space or woodland.

It’s also hugely multicultural, with 4 universities and a number of private institutions enticing international students each year. But more than that people from 190 countries live in Berlin with the highest numbers coming from Poland and Turkey. The really cool thing about that is this multiculturalism is very much reflected in the food in Berlin, which we will go into a bit more detail further down in the article.

If you are deciding between Hamburg and Berlin here is a helpful guide.

Chances are your 2 day Berlin itinerary will probably start at the airport. The cities main airport is Berlin Brandenburg Airport which opened in 2020.

The airport is very well connected when it comes to public transport. The quickest and easiest way to get into Berlin city centre is to get the Airport Express from station T1-2. Trains depart 4 times an hour, and take around 30 minutes to get you into Berlin Central Station. From here you then make your way to your hotel/ destination by using the S Bahn (to the outskirts of Berlin) or U Bahn (Berlin city) networks.

What to see in Berlin in 2 days

Berlin is huge and you definitely will not be short of things to do during your time here. We have listed some of the must see sights, as well as a few hidden gems to help you plan your own 2 day Berlin itinerary.

Personally, I don’t think your 2 day Berlin itinerary is complete without a visit to the Reichstag. The Reichstag is the seat of German Parliament (the Bundestag), in Berlin. The cool thing is this is open to the public (well some bits anyway), provided that you book a ticket online in advance .

The best thing is, it is completely free. You just need to register, and select a particular date and time. We advise doing this well in advance so that you don’t miss out.

When you arrive, you need to go through a number of security checks, and you will then be escorted by elevator to the base of the famous glass dome. You will then make your way up the slanted walkway to the top. You can take as much time as you like, especially as you will get some incredible views of Berlin from here.

If you are into politics and government there are a number of  parliament style tours  you can also do to get to grips with the area.

Another must, for your 2 days in Berlin has to be a visit to the Brandenburg Gate. Fortunately it is very close to the Reichstag, so you can kill two birds with one stone so to speak.

The Brandenburg Gate is one of Berlin’s most recognisable structures, which is synonymous with peace and unity. Interestingly though, during the Cold War, it became a kind of observation deck for those wanting to get a sneaky glimpse at life on the other side of the Iron curtain.

The best time to visit is early morning when there are less people around, and you may also be lucky enough to get a glimpse of the sunrise behind it, depending on which side you are standing on.

Another popular attraction that you should definitely add to your 2 day Berlin itinerary is the East Side Gallery. It spans about 1.3 km which makes it the largest open air gallery in the world. It is also the longest continuous section of the Berlin wall that exists today.

It is free to visit the East Side Gallery, but you can also see it as part of a guided tour, where you can learn a little bit more about the various artworks and the history of the wall.

One of our observations about Berlin is that unlike other European cities, it doesn’t have a lot of old school European architecture. Now obviously that is the case because of the history of the city. But one of the buildings that was reconstructed after suffering considerable damaged during World War 2 was the Berliner Dom.

The cathedral was only completed in 1905, and is located on Museum Island. You can go inside for a small fee, or you can admire it from the outside for free.

We always think a great way to familiarise yourself with a city, is to do a hop on hop off bus tour. Not only is your transport for the day sorted, but you also get to learn about Berlin, and it’s most famous attractions.

You can book your tickets online in advance here .

Another great way to see Berlin is to do a city boat tour. The tours usually last about an hour and you get to see some of the best attractions, like the Berliner Dom, and Reichstag from the comfort of a boat. Try and grab a seat at the top for the best views, but in case of rain, there is plenty of seating downstairs undercover.

Now, you might not immediately think of a boat tour as being something to do in Berlin. After all, that sounds like a Venice or Amsterdam kind of trip. But interestingly enough, Berlin has more canals than Amsterdam, so a canal cruise really is a must here.

You can book your tour here online in advance .

For some of the best views of Berlin you should consider taking a trip up the TV Tower. You can pretty much see the TV Tower from most parts of the city, and it is also the tallest building in Germany.

It sits at a height of 368 metres, although that includes the antenna. The observation deck is 203 metres above ground.

It is one of Berlin’s most popular tourist attractions, but you might be surprised to hear that only 400 people are allowed in the sphere at the same time. Which in fairness makes a lot of sense, when you think about safety and space.

If you want to visit, you should book a ticket online in advance , to guarantee you entry. There is a restaurant in the Sphere, that you can also book in advance to eat at.

One of the more overrated attractions we experienced during our 2 days in Berlin, was visiting Checkpoint Charlie. We heard so much about it before the trip as it is such a historical place in Berlin. If you don’t know, Checkpoint Charlie was one of the most well known crossing points between East and West Berlin during the Cold War.

The weird thing about it now though, is that it is surrounded by a KFC and a McDonalds. It is also smack bang in the middle of a busy street. We still think it is worth a visit, but maybe not a long one.

If you love museums, then the aptly named Museum Island might be for you. It is home to five large museums, granted you won’t be able to visit them all as part of your 2 day Berlin itinerary.

It’s also a UNESCO world heritage site, so even if you don’t go into a museum it’s fun to walk around. Even the architecture for the various buildings is impressive.

We did venture into one of the museums, and when we were deciding which one to visit, we were told the Pergamon Museum is the most popular and therefore the best for anyone in Berlin on a short trip.

For a moving, and raw account of the history of Berlin, but also the Nazi regime you should visit the Topography of Terror. It’s located in a former Gestapo Headquarters, and documents the rise and fall of the Nazi party. It’s often difficult to read about the atrocities that were committed, but it is a really important place to visit in the city.

The DDR Museum is probably one of the best museums I have visited due to its interactive displays. You really get a sense of what life was like in East Berlin here. They have rooms decorated like East Berlin style apartments, and you can even sit in a Trabant.

Tickets  can be purchased in advance  or on the day.

If your idea of a European mini break involves palaces, then never fear because Berlin has over 30 palaces which will transport you back to the days of Prussian Kings and Queens. Charlottenburg is one of the more popular palaces, with its Baroque architecture and lavish gardens.

You do need to pay to see the inside, or you can explore the gardens for free. Either way it’s a nice break from the business of central Berlin.

Hidden gems to add to your 2 day Berlin itinerary

If you are looking for something a bit different to add to your 2 day Berlin itinerary, here are some of our suggestions.

Walk around Natur-Park Südgelände  

For something way less touristy in Berlin head to the Schoneberg district where you can visit a park that was once a railway yard.

Here you will find decaying buildings and train tracks, overtaken by nature, as well as some cool sculptures and art installations. It was really quiet when we visited, and honestly was just a nice break from the hustle and bustle of Berlin.

It is a little bit further out or the city, so you may not have time to go if you only have 2 days in Berlin. But if you do get the chance it is certainly worth a visit. It’s also one of those places that is great for some unique Instagram pics .

Another hidden gem that you will be pleased to hear is centrally located, is the Hackescher Markt. Located in the Mitte neighbourhood in Berlin, it’s a great hidden alleyway to explore with several galleries and shops. The highlight though is the Courtyard of Haus Schwarzenberg, a space filled with galleries, coffee shops, and lots of graffiti and artwork.

Why on earth is a Park Inn on our list of hidden gems in Berlin you might be wondering? Well, we happen to think the hotel is home to one of the best views in Berlin. We mentioned visiting the TV Tower on our list of things to do in Berlin, but if you want to enjoy similar views at a fraction of the price visit the  Park Inn Hotel  instead. Members of the public can visit for 6 Euros, and the best thing about it is that not only do you get to experience incredible city views, but you get a photo with the TV tower as well.

If you decide to visit Charlottenburg Palace during your 2 days in Berlin, and you love art, then we highly recommend a visit to the Berggruen Museum. It’s only a short walk from the palace and it is absolutely brilliant. It houses a number of modern art pieces including works by Picasso. The collection was put together by Heinz Berggruen who left Nazi Germany in 1936 for the US.

Eating during your 2 days in Berlin

If you are anything like us, then your 2 days in Berlin will involve a lot of food and drink. I mean who doesn’t love indulging in the local cuisine on holiday? Here are some of the must eat foods, and drinks, to add to your 2 day Berlin itinerary.

First things first, you absolutely have to try Currywurst when you are in Berlin. It’s a very cheap, quick, fast food style meal, that consists of bratwurst, a bread roll, and ketchupy/curry like sauce. Apparently the Currywurst was invented in Berlin, so it would be rude not to give it a go.

I know that a Donner Kebab doesn’t sound very German, but it’s a super popular dish and staple in Berlin, thanks to Turkish immigration throughout the years. The kebab has evolved since its introduction in the city, so it might be a little different to kebabs that you may have tried in Turkey.

Traditionally Schnitzel, (or Weiner Schnitzel to be more precise) is an Austrian dish, but it is still popular in Berlin. Usually served with a side or sauerkraut, and potato salad it is the ultimate comfort food. The original Weiner Schnitzel is served with veal, but you can also get pork or chicken schnitzel too. I’m not a veal fan at all, so tend to go for chicken.

If you have this idea of pork knuckles and large steins of beer in your head, when visiting Berlin you will be disappointed. This sort of traditional style food, is Bavarian, and not so common in Berlin. But all is not lost if you are looking for a ‘traditional’ German meal.

Augustiner am Gendarmenmarkt is your best bet for schnitzels and pork legs, with cold steins of beer. You also have Hofbräu Wirtshaus which is very touristy but will certainly give you your fix of ‘German’ style food.

This is another testament to the multicultural city that is Berlin. The Tajikstan Tearoom allows you to sip tea (and vodka) whilst sat on floor cushions. It’s a fun atmosphere and you get to try some Eastern European food like dumplings and borsht.

Of course if you are short on time and want to do some guided food tours there are a number of great options for your 2 days in Berlin.

Drinking during your 2 days in Berlin

The nightlife scene in Berlin is hip and happening, and one of our highlights when we visited was trying out some of the cities bars. A word of warning though, most bars tend to open quite late in Berlin (around 8pm), and things don’t start happening really till after 10pm.

Kreuzberg is one of the super cool places to drink, with several bars, and secret speakeasy style cocktail lounges.

Here are some of our favourites from our 2 days in Berlin.

One of our favourite hidden cocktail bars in Berlin is the Fairytale Bar. It’s Alice in Wonderland themed, and honestly it is hard to feel like you haven’t fallen down the rabbit hole here. To get in you knock on a secret door, and wait to be seated. The drinks, are really good as well, and served in very creative ways.

Mentioning this one in case there are any How I Met Your Mother fans our there. It’s styled after the bar MacLaren’s in the show, and they serve some pretty good beers, cocktails, and burgers.

If you are in Kreuzberg then head to Madam Claude. It’s an upside-down bar with bit of furniture hanging from the ceiling. It also used to be a brother which adds to the character that much more.

Admittedly we love our cocktails, and Stagger Lee was another of our favourites in Berlin. It’s a saloon style bar with wooden furnishings and very creative cocktails.

If you visit any bar during your 2 days in Berlin make it this one. Schwarze Traube is a dimly lit speakeasy, that you will need to knock on the door to gain entry. The really hip thing though is that there are no menus here. Bar staff will ask your flavour preferences and get to work on creating you something that you might like.

Berlin is a big city, but don’t let that put you off trying to see Berlin in 2 days. The transport network in the city is incredible. The most common way to get around is using the U-Bahn – an underground train network similar to the London underground or the subway system in New York. The U-Bahn operates 10 different lines, and takes you to pretty much every corner of the city. This will be your most common bit of transportation for your 2 days in Berlin.

Buses and trams are also popular modes of transport, and we recommend using these alongside Googlemaps to help get around. Trams are only found in the eastern part of the city.

If you are travelling to the outskirts of Berlin you may find yourself on the S-Bahn. It isn’t as frequent as the U-Bahn but still reliable.

When you buy a ticket it is valid on all forms of public transport in Berlin, just as long as you are travelling in the zones specified. You can purchase single tickets on public transport or purchase a  24 hour, or 7 day ticket .

Where to stay during your 2 days in Berlin

It can be overwhelming when trying to decide where to stay for your 2 days in Berlin. So we thought we would give you a bit of a breakdown on the different areas to help you decide.

If it is your first time on Berlin, or like us you have 2 days in Berlin, then our recommendation is to stay in Mitte. This is where many of the key tourist attractions are such as the Brandenburg Gate, and the Berlin Wall. There are also a large number of restaurants and bars in the area, which makes it a great place to base yourself.

This is where we want to stay the next time we visit Berlin. That’s because it is the more ‘alternative’ district in the city. There is a lot going on and the nightlife is incredible. It’s not too far from the centre of Berlin and has excellent transport links.

In terms of the accommodation itself you will find a lot of air bnb’s and boutique hotels. If you want something a little different, and you plan to visit a lot of bars in Berlin this is the area for you.

Prenzlauerberg is great if you want to stay somewhere a little more laid back. It’s a bit more residential, and less chaotic than say Mitte. It’s probably a good place for families or those of you that want to travel at your own pace. It’s also not too far from the main attractions in Berlin, and is very well connected when it comes to transport.

If your purpose for visiting Berlin is to dance the night away then Friedrichshain is possibly the area for you. It has some of the best nightlife in the city, and a hip and gritty vibe, similar to Kreuzburg.

We ended up staying at a hotel right near Checkpoint Charlie for our 2 days in Berlin, called Select Hotel Checkpoint Charlie. It’s a 4 star hotel, not too far from public transport links. The hotel was clean and modern and we definitely had no complaints. That being said, we would recommend you avoid staying around the Checkpoint Charlie area. There aren’t that many restaurants or bars in the area so it’s not great for nightlife. Unless you want a KFC or McDonalds.

It is close to public transport so you can of course use this to travel to different areas. But when you only have 2 days in Berlin (in our opinion anyway) you want to be close to the nightlife.

I don’t know why, but when we arrived in Berlin we sort of had this idea that it would be really expensive. Thankfully we were pleasantly surprised. That being said it isn’t super cheap either, it’s just an average priced European city.

We budgeted about €100 per person for day, not including accommodation. You could probably get away with a bit less, but we wanted to have nice meals and go out for a few cocktails in the evenings.

Accommodation will set you back around €100-€120 per night for something mid range. Just make sure you book this well in advance.

You might be thinking is 2 days in Berlin enough? Honestly no. We were really surprised at how much stuff there is to do in Berlin. We would recommend 4 days at least just to get to grips with the city, see the main tourist sights, and of course experience some of that famous nightlife.

Berlin is a big city and is a bit spread out too, so you do loose a bit of time trying to travel between sights. If you only have 2 days in Berlin though all is not lost. We recommend making a plan about what you want to see, and sticking to it. Also, book any attractions or restaurants in advance to save time queuing.

So you might be wondering when the best time to plan your 2 day Berlin itinerary is. We think Berlin is one of those places you can visit at any time of year. It’s a vast city, and you will find something to do no matter the weather.

Summer is the peak season to visit Germany, and Berlin in particular. The weather is mild, and perfect for sipping pints of beer outdoors. August is by the far the busiest month due to school holidays, so if you do visit at this time expect crowds and long lines at tourist attractions.

Whilst winter isn’t always a favourite in terms of travel, if you wrap up warm you can still have a pretty decent break in Berlin. There are so many museums and bars where you can seek shelter from the elements. December is popular in the city because of the Christmas Markets.So not only do you get to explore the city, you also get to experience the magic that is Berlin at Christmas.

If you are wanting a relaxed holiday with fewer tourists, but mild weather, we recommend visiting in November or April and May.

More than 3 days in Berlin? Day trip ideas

If you have more than 2 days in Berlin or you just want a change of scenery for your onwards travels here are some day trip ideas.

40 kilometres southwest of Berlin you will find the historic city of Potsdam. Filled with incredible parks, and lakes, this former imperial city is only a train ride away from Berlin.

If you want to travel slightly further afield, then we recommend Dresden. It’s about 2 hours from Berlin, and is one of Europe’s beautiful Baroque cities. It was destroyed during WW2 and has since been restored making it a popular destination in Germany.

Hamburg is a good option if you are looking to explore another city. It’s about 2 hours on the train away from Berlin, and there are 33 trains per day between the two cities. Hamburg is a beautiful port city and well worth a visit,  although you might want to stay a bit longer .

Before jetting off for your 2 days in Berlin here are some things that you need to know.

• Some bars and restaurants are cash only so make sure you have some cash on you especially if you are used to paying everything on card. You could end up like us ordering food and then one of us having to run around Berlin trying to find a cash machine to pay for the meal. And of course the closest ATM was not working!
• Don’t stick to traditional German food when eating in the city, branch out and share in the multiculturalism of the city.
• Bars open late in Berlin, so check opening times before arriving.

If you are on the fence as to whether you should spend 2 days in Berlin, let this be your sign to go. Berlin is such a vibrant and fun city and there really is a bit of something for everyone. It’s got culture, food, history, and one hell of a nightlife scene. Even if you only have 2 days in Berlin you will see a lot, and have a really awesome time. Enjoy your trip.

And if you found this useful please pin our 2 day Berlin itinerary for later.

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Places to Visit in Berlin in 2 Days

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Welcome to Berlin! This vibrant city offers a rich history, stunning architecture, and a diverse cultural scene. With only two days to explore, it’s important to plan your itinerary strategically. In this guide, we’ll highlight the must-visit places in Berlin to make the most of your short stay.

Day 1: Historical and Cultural Exploration

1. brandenburg gate.

Start your day at the iconic Brandenburg Gate, a symbol of Germany’s reunification. This neoclassical monument is an excellent starting point for exploring Berlin’s historical sites. Take a moment to appreciate its grandeur and significance.

2. Reichstag Building

Next, visit the Reichstag Building, which houses the German parliament. Its glass dome offers panoramic views of the city. Be sure to book your visit in advance to avoid long queues.

3. Checkpoint Charlie

Continue your historical tour at Checkpoint Charlie, the famous border crossing point between East and West Berlin during the Cold War. Learn about the city’s divided past at the Checkpoint Charlie Museum.

4. Berlin Wall Memorial

Head to the Berlin Wall Memorial to see remnants of the infamous wall that once divided the city. This open-air exhibition provides insight into the lives of those living on both sides of the wall.

5. Museum Island

Make your way to Museum Island, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Here, you’ll find a collection of world-renowned museums, including the Pergamon Museum and the Neues Museum.

Day 2: Modern Berlin and Cultural Gem

1. east side gallery.

Start your second day in Berlin by exploring the East Side Gallery, an outdoor gallery featuring graffiti art on a section of the Berlin Wall. It’s a great way to experience the city’s creative side.

2. Charlottenburg Palace

Visit Charlottenburg Palace, the largest palace in Berlin. Stroll through its beautiful gardens and explore the opulent interiors. Don’t miss the stunning baroque-style Orangery.

3. Berlin Philharmonie

If you’re a fan of classical music, catch a performance at the Berlin Philharmonie. Considered one of the best concert halls in the world, it hosts renowned orchestras and soloists.

4. Potsdamer Platz

Head to Potsdamer Platz, a bustling square that showcases modern Berlin. Here, you’ll find shopping centers, restaurants, and impressive contemporary architecture.

5. Tiergarten Park

End your two-day adventure at Tiergarten Park, Berlin’s largest green space. Enjoy a leisurely stroll or rent a bicycle to explore the park’s serene pathways and picturesque landscapes.

Tips for Navigating Berlin

• Consider purchasing a Berlin Welcome Card, which offers unlimited public transportation and discounts for popular attractions.
• Berlin has an extensive bike-sharing system, making it a convenient and eco-friendly way to explore the city.
• Don’t forget to try traditional German cuisine like currywurst and schnitzel at local eateries.
• Wear comfortable shoes as you’ll be doing a lot of walking.
• Download offline maps and translation apps to assist you during your visit.

Although two days may not be enough to uncover all of Berlin’s wonders, this itinerary will ensure that you experience the city’s historical, cultural, and modern highlights. Remember to immerse yourself in the local culture, try new foods, and take time to appreciate the unique charm of this dynamic city.

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2 Days In Berlin (Tours, Tips, And Places To Stay)

Berlin – the German capital, a site of world history, a city that’s as open and cosmopolitan as it gets. It’s one of the best LGBTQ travel destinations , and world-famous for its Christopher Street Day. It’s a dream destination for history buffs, a bucket list item for art lovers, and a can’t miss for those who devour street food. Public transportation is excellent, which makes getting around a breeze. It’s without a doubt on of the best European cities to visit. You could spend a lifetime here and never get bored, but if you have only 2 days in Berlin, we have the top tips for you, along with the best tours you can’t miss and excellent places to stay!

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2 Days in Berlin

No matter if this is your first time in Berlin or not, how you decide to spend your 2 days in Berlin is entirely dependent on where your interests lie. This German city is so versatile, there’s lots to do, no matter what you love best. I’ve put together some suggestions for how to plan your day but you can mix and match with what works best for you!

1 . Reichstag

Since Berlin is Germany’s capital, it is also the seat of the German government. The Reichstag is a historic building, and the current seat of the Bundestag. It was built in 1894, was set on fire in 1933, and suffered extensive damage in WW II. It fell into disrepair, as the government of West Germany was housed in Bonn, and wasn’t even partially restored until 1960. After East Germany and West Germany reunited on October 3, 1990, it was fully restored and has been the seat of the German parliament since 1999. You can take a short walk by the Reichstag building and admire its beauty, but I highly recommend booking a tour that will lead you to the roof terrace and the spectacular glass dome. It’s free and starts every 15 minutes, but it’s necessary to register in advance .

2. Brandenburger Tor

Just a short walk (about 400 meters) from the Reichstag, at the end of the avenue Unter den Linden, you will find another of Berlin’s most famous landmarks: the Brandenburger Tor. It is the only historical city gate still standing today, but it is more than that. The Brandenburger Tor represents Germany’s division into East and West during the Cold war, and today, the unity that was achieved after the fall of the Berlin wall in 1990. It faces Pariser Platz, widely regarded as one of Berlin’s most beautiful squares. The south wing of the Brandenburger Tor houses a great tourist information center.

3. Memorial to the Murdered Jews of Europe

Close to the Brandenburger Tor you will also find a holocaust memorial, the Memorial to the Murdered Jews of Europe. It’s a large site, about 200,000 sqft. There are 2,711 concrete slabs, arranged on a sloping field in a grid pattern. Underground is a place of information, displaying around 3 million names of the Jewish victims of the holocaust. It’s a somber place, dedicated to remembrance, and to contemplation, and a warning to never let anything like this happen again.

4. Unter den Linden Boulevard

Unter den Linden is a magnificent boulevard, leading from the Brandenburger Tor to the Berlin Cathedral. It got its name from the trees lining it – Linden, or lime trees. The buildings along the boulevard were reduced to rubble in World War II, but they were lovingly and beautifully restored, giving Unter den Linden the grandeur it holds today. Along the boulevard, you will find many attractions such as the Zeughaus, Neue Wache, Museum Island, Humboldt Forum, and the Staatsoper.

5. Zeughaus

The Zeughaus is the oldest building among the structures of Unter den Linden boulevard. Today, it houses the  Deutsches Historisches Museum (German historical museum), a worthwhile stop on your 2 day Berlin itinerary! While the historic Zeughaus is closed for renovations until 2025, the the Pei-Bau, which is a newer exhibition hall, remains open.

6. Neue Wache

The Neue Wache was originally constructed in 1818 as a Prussian guard house, but today, it serves as a memorial dedicated to the victims of war and tyranny – not just German victims, and victims of Germans, but all victims, It is a place most people don’t visit intentionally, but rather stumble upon while strolling along Unter den Linden on their first day sightseeing.

7. Museum Island

One of the best things to do in Berlin is to visit a museum. Museum Island, located on the northern part of the Spree Island, is one of Berlin’s most visited attractions. The city features many excellent museums, and if you don’t know where to start, Museum Island is one of the best places to do so. Here, you will find five large museums:

• Altes Museum (old museum), which is located right by the Lustgarten, opposite the new Humboldt Forum and the cathedral (Berlin Dom)
• Neues Museum (new museum), formerly the Royal Prussian Museum
• Pergamon Museum, which is the most visited museum in Berlin
• the Bode Museum, showcasing a unique collection of sculptures from as far back as the Middle Ages
• Alte Nationalgalerie, resembling an ancient Greek temple, and rising high above the Museum Island, it is home to sculptures and painting from many eras

In 1999, Museum Island was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

8. Fernsehturm (TV Tower)

Phew, day one has been busy! But don’t miss out on a visit to the TV Tower, Berlin’s tallest structure, located at Alexanderplatz. You can take the elevator up and enjoy a 360 degree view of the city from the observation deck, AND there’s a revolving restaurant sphere. Enjoy your first day dinner in style!

1. Potsdamer Platz

If you’re feeling up for it, you can including Potsdamer Platz into Day 1, but that’s a lot . So my recommendation is to start your second day here! Take the fastest elevator in Europe up the Kollhof Tower, check out Legoland Discovery Centre, or shop ’til you drop at the Potsdamer Platz Arkaden.

2. Jewish Museum

Opened in 2001, the Jewish Museum is the largest of its kind in all of Europe. It showcases the history of the German Jews from the Middle Ages to the present day, always presents interesting current exhibitions, and events.

3. Checkpoint Charlie

Checkpoint Charlie was the most well-known border crossing point between east Berlin and west Berlin during the Cold War. It was also the site of many escape attempts from people in east Germany. Visit the Wall Museum to learn more about the stories of those who tried to escape, as well as the history of the Berlin Wall.

4. Berlin Wall Memorial

The Berlin wall memorial is the central site reminding visitors of the division of the two Germanys during the Cold War. Here, a part of the wall is preserved in the exact way it looked in the 1980s. There’s an excellent visitor center with lots of opportunities to educate yourself. The memorial offers free entry, and guided tours can be had for a small fee.

5. Trabi Museum And Trabi World

The Trabant was and still is iconic. Trabis haven’t been built since 1991, but the East German cars still have a large fan base around the world. The museum is close to Checkpoint Charlie and displays all kinds of models, even some rally Trabis. (Yes, that was a thing! Nothing better than driving a rally in a cardboard box, no?) The Trabi Museum is a really cool place you shouldn’t miss!

6. East Side Gallery

The East Side Gallery is an absolutely incredible open air gallery! A must see on your second day in the city. It’s not a gallery in the classic sense – instead, it’s a 1316 meter long section of the Berlin Wall that has been transformed into an open air exhibition. How amazing is that? It’s not just for art lovers. This piece of the wall is the longest one still standing today. So much history in one place, and you’ll love how artists commemorated political changes around the time when the wall came down. It’s art, history, politics, and the perfect Insta-worthy photo opportunity, all in one place.

7. Charlottenburg Palace (Schloss Charlottenburg)

Located in Charlottenburg-Wilmersdorf and built in the late 1700s, the Charlottenburg Palace is a gorgeous baroque palace you should definitely add to your 2 day Berlin itinerary. Wander through the opulent halls, staterooms, and the rococo ballroom that was once upon a time constructed for Sophie Charlotte of Hanover. It is absolutely stunning, a highlight for everyone visiting Berlin and Germany.

8. Hackescher Markt

End day 2 with a one-of-a-kind shopping experience at Hackescher Markt. At this square in the city center you have the chance to greatly update your wardrobe. Young up-and-coming designers offer their creations in small shops. It’s a great way to return home looking like a million bucks without spending said million!

The Best time to go to Berlin

The best time to visit Germany and Berlin is between May and September, when the weather is nice, the temperatures are mild or warm, and you can take advantage of the many beautiful cafés with outdoor seating, perfect to people watch. These months are also when lots of outdoor festivals happen, always a fun reason to travel to a new destination!

10 Best Tours in Berlin

If planning your own 2 day tour is feeling a little daunting, there’s fantastic tours you can take advantage of. It’s just as great to get the skinny from a knowledgeable local. Here are our favorite tours to take in Berlin:

1. Big Bus Berlin Hop on Hop off tour with optional Walking Tour

Hop on hop off buses are a great way to explore any city. They stop at the main sights, and you can take as much time as you want before jumping on the next bus and heading on. On the Big Bus Berlin hop on hop off tour you can opt for a 24 hour ticket, or the deluxe 48 hour ticket which includes a river cruise on the river Spree.

2. Discover Berlin Half-Day Walking Tour

Walking tours are the next best thing. On the Discover Berlin half day walking tour , you’ll visit Berlin Mitte. Your knowledgeable guide will show you landmarks from several historic eras, World War II, the Cold War, and many more.

3. Two Hour Berlin Small Group Segway Tour

Don’t feel like walking to discover the history of Berlin? No problem! Discover the city on a 2 hour small group Segway tour ! See the Brandenburg Gate, the Holocaust Memorial, the Pariser Platz and Potsdamer Platz,  the Reichstag Building, and the Victory Column in style.

4. Cold War Walking Tour 

The Cold War walking tour  is an excellent historical walking tour. Discover the years after World War II. See the Berlin Wall, the Palace of Tears, the Death Strip, and other landmarks important to that era.

5. Third Reich Walking Tour

For those who want to learn all about the history of the city during the time of Nazi Germany and World War II, a Third Reich walking tour is ideal. It’s a half day tour leading you through the final days of WW II, showing you the historic landmarks related to these events, and teaching you about the resistance to Hitler and his regime. Super history nerds can book a private Third Reich walking tour .

6. Sachsenhausen Concentration Camp Memorial Tour

Touring a concentration camp is a somber activity. But to truly grasp the horrors that happened in Germany during the Third Reich era, and to honor murdered Jews of Europe, it’s a necessity. The Sachsenhausen Concentration Camp Memorial Tour takes you to Sachsenhausen, one of the first concentration camps in Germany. The tour is lead by a special guide, trained by the memorial authority. Read this article for tips for a concentration camp visit .

7. Street Art Tour – Off The Grid

Discover Berlin’s quirky side with a street art tour . Your guide, specialized in urban art, will lead you to the city’s off-the-grid enclaves to see illegal graffiti, vibrant murals, and quirky artistic sights. This is a really fun, off the beaten path tour for art lovers.

8. Berlin walking tasting tour with Secret Food Tours

Ah the food! Don’t miss the food! Discover Berlin’s top ethnic eats, lots of street food, along with German sausages, and German boutique bakeries on this walking tasting tour . Enjoy a vibrant mix of different foods and history.

9. Berlin Icebar Experience

At the end of a long day of tours and sightseeing, you are most likely ready for a drink. Book the Berlin Icebar Experience , available year-round, and head to a special winter wonderland. Going in the summer? No worries, you’ll be provided with a polar jacket and gloves, so you stay toasty warm at this special bar, where literally everything is crafted from ice. The tour includes 3 drinks.

10. Berlin Wall Self Drive Trabant Tour

This tour is simply ICONIC. No matter where you are from, you have certainly seen pictures of the Trabant, or Trabbi, as us Germans lovingly called it. Spending 2 hours and 15 minutes driving around in this little car that honestly feels like you are sitting in a cardboard box is SO much fun! (Not so much fun if that’s your daily vehicle, let me tell you.) The Berlin Wall Self Drive Trabant Tour providers you with a guide to cover all of Berlin’s iconic sites AND you get a souvenir Trabant driver’s license at the end, no matter if you were the driver or the passenger. Note: you MUST be able to drive a stick shift.

Best Places to Stay in Berlin

The capital of Germany offers accommodations for every budget, and lots of them!

Telegraphenamt

The Telegraphenamt is a 5 star hotel in a prime location. It’s located in the city center, close to the TV Tower, the German Historical Museum, and the Natural History Museum. All rooms are airconditioned, not a given in Germany! The kitchenette and minibar are also nice features. And the hotel is pet friendly!

Mondrian Suites Berlin am Checkpoint Charlie

The Mondrian Suites Berlin am Checkpoint Charlie offers modern studios and apartments in different sizes, all including a balcony or terrace. All apartments include a refrigerator, a microwave oven, a dishwasher, and a Nespresso coffee machine. This 4 star hotel is, you guessed it, right at Checkpoint Charlie. It’s also close to the Jewish Museum and Friedrichstraße shopping street.

Schulz Hotel Berlin Wall at the East Side Gallery

The Schulz Hotel Berlin Wall at the East Side Gallery is a 3 star property in a great location, as the name implies. It’s a newer hotel, opened in 2018, is located right at the Berlin Wall, and even offers a beer garden!

Three Little Pigs Hostel – Your Berlin Castle

Rest well in your own castle! The Three Little Pigs Hostel (just how adorable is that name?) is housed inside a former 19th-century convent and located in Friedrichshain-Kreuzberg, a mere 10 minutes from Checkpoint Charlie. This hostel offers an all-you-can-eat breakfast buffet for an extra charge, you can get a tasty lunch pack so you don’t have to eat at a restaurant, and you can make friends at the bar.

There are also tons of homestays and vacation homes available, if you prefer a little more privacy.

Berlin is such a great place, with SO many things to do. 2 days is simply not enough time to spend here! Last but not least, we recommend to get the Berlin Welcome Card , offering discounts at more than 180 attractions! We hope you enjoy your 2 days in Berlin with our help!

Jenny grew up in Germany. All she ever wanted out of life was to leave and have adventures. Jenny always traveled as much as the budget would allow, and when she met her husband traveling became a full-time thing. You can follow Jenny on her blog and Facebook.

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2 days in berlin: the best things to see & do.

FMTC Affiliate Disclosure: Blond Wayfarer contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase through these links, I earn a commission at no extra cost to you. This disclosure pertains to all affiliate links.

Are you ready for two action packed days in Berlin?  I bet you are! Berlin is a fascinating city that offers its visitors a deep education on recent history.

Not to mention, nightlife lovers come from around the world to experience what Berlin has to offer them.

I’ll be honest: I wasn’t thrilled during my trip to Berlin due to a freak heatwave that paralyzed me. I really want to give Berlin another chance in the near future. So I’m writing this post as a tangible and positive start toward that goal.

My “two days in Berlin itinerary” works well enough for travelers who are passing through or individuals who want to do a Berlin weekend break.

I hope you enjoy my suggestions for two days in Berlin. Have a great time in Germany’s capital city.

Is 2 Days in Berlin Even Possible?

Yes, anything is possible!

But, okay, I understand what you’re saying here. 2 days in Berlin isn’t a lot of time at all given the capital of Germany is packed with many museums and day trips. You could easily spend a week in Berlin and not see everything.

A weekend in Berlin, however, will give you a vibrant “taste” of the city – which is better than nothing, right?

You simply need to assess your likes and dislikes, and prioritize your attractions when spending 2 days in Berlin. The last thing you should do is attempt to “see it all” and end up burnt out and exhausted after your visit.

My own 2 days doing a solo trip was amazing. So I hope this Berlin itinerary will help get you started with planning a great trip to Germany’s capital city.

Two Days in Berlin: Morning 

Welcome to Berlin, my friend. You’re in for a real educational treat by choosing this destination.

Spend your morning discovering Berlin’s complicated history. I found it impossible to truly appreciate the city and its unique and rebellious vibe until after I learned everything that had happened here, especially in the recent past. It’s insane.

Go to the Brandenburg Gate

No trip to Berlin would be complete without snapping the iconic photo of the Brandenburg Gate. Tourists all flock here for a reason. The gate is beautiful.

Believe it or not, throughout the tense years of the Cold War, visitors scaled an observation platform to see beyond the Iron Curtain into East Berlin.

Nowadays the Brandenburg Gate is a glorious symbol for both “unity and hope” rather than forced separation among people.

Brandenburg Gate is the perfect place to begin your two days in Berlin.

Add a Walking Tour to Your Berlin in 2 Days Itinerary

Remember what I said about learning history this morning? Now’s the time.

Since you only have two days in Berlin, you ought to take advantage of a walking tour.

Many walking tours leave from the Brandenburg Gate area. For example, Sandemanns New Europe’s Free Berlin Tour meets at the Starbucks in Pariser Platz where the Brandenburg Gate is located.

These free tours usually last about three hours and cover all the main spots. Tip what you feel is appropriate.

However, if you’re truly interested in history and want to dedicate your morning and afternoon to the subject, then I suggest investing in Brewer’s Best of Berlin Tour.  It’s six hours long, but you learn  everything. 

I love walking tours not only for their knowledge, but the guides give great local advice on restaurants and opportunities to meet other travelers easily present themselves to you.

Two Days in Berlin: Afternoon 

Afternoon is starting (or lunch is already here!) after your walking tour! Are you ready for some more history?

At this time, make sure to grab lunch too. Berlin is well known for it’s  currywurst  and you really need to try some when you’re in the city. Dietary restrictions? No worries. You can even find vegan currywurst if you search hard enough for it.

I highly recommend currywurst, folks. I actually consider it one of the reasons to visit Germany on your European travels.

Ascend the Reichstag dome

Ready to see Germany’s parliament? Of course you are!

Even if you’re not interested in politics, you ought to make a stop at this famous landmark. Don’t let the long lines scare you.

Sure, 2 days in Berlin isn’t a lot of time, but the views are worth the trouble and wait. Furthermore Reichstag Dome and Terrace are open to the public.

Admission is free, but you do need to register in advance.

Why the hassle? The Reichstag is home to the current German Parliament. The building itself has a rough history.

After a fire in 1933, the Reichstag fell into deep neglect and wasn’t the seat of government again until German reunification had already taken place. The Reichstag has seen it all. Literally.

See the Memorial to the Murdered Jews of Europe

The Memorial to the Murdered Jews of Europe consists of 2711 concrete slabs – which are open day and night. Walk through and feel slightly disoriented by their varying heights and the floor’s unevenness.

This is a place for contemplation, to say the least.

Additionally, at the Memorial, there’s a free underground exhibit where you learn more about Germany’s Jewish population and the scarring effects of the Holocaust.

Important Note:  Remember your manners at the Memorial. I saw some bad behavior here, sadly. For example, while I waited in line to go to the free exhibit, a couple was all over each other and it was just trashy given the nature of the site.

Furthermore, don’t climb the gray blocks or take disrespectful selfies. Be better, folks.

Visit Other Nearby Memorials

The Memorial to the Murdered Jews of Europe isn’t the only memorial dedicated to victims of Germany’s Nazi Regime. Many others are located throughout Berlin, and are worthy of your time and attention.

For instance, other nearby memorials include remembrances for both Europe’s Roma and homosexual populations, which were also targets of the Nazi party.

Both memorials are located near Tiergarten, one of Berlin’s biggest public parks, and a great place to relax if you need a break. Don’t skip these places during your 2 days in Berlin.

Learn more at the Topographie des Terrors

If you’re not too burnt out from Berlin’s dark history, then make a stop at the Topographie des Terrors.

This outdoor museum is meaningfully located right on the site of the headquarters of the former SS Gestapo. The building was destroyed during the war. The permanent exhibit covers life in Berlin under the cruelty of the Third Reich.

The outdoor exhibit is free for anyone who wants to visit and learn all about Berlin’s most recent turmoil.

Two Days in Berlin: Evening

We’re almost done our first day out of our 2 days in Berlin. So it’s officially time to take a break from the intense history lessons of the day!

Berlin’s evenings also promise fun and excitement. For example, the clubs are absolutely legendary and definitely worth a visit if you’re interested.

Where will you spend your first night? Well…

Spend the Night in Prenzlauer Berg

Prenzlauer Berg was my favorite neighborhood in all of Berlin. My favorite. I wanted to rent a small apartment here.

This area is known for it’s endless number of pubs, cafes, cool galleries, and restaurants. In addition, examples of prewar architecture are very easy to find compared to the rest of the city. Eat dinner here and then let your hair down.

Honestly, if some of the historical sites are emotionally hard for you, then I suggest coming to Prenzlauer Berg early and exploring the area. The shopping is pretty darn fun, too.

Bring a Lonely Planet Guide to Berlin to find the best things to do in Prenzlauer Berg. 

Two Days in Berlin: Morning

Good morning, travelers! Are you ready for your second fun-filled day in Berlin? I hope so! Grab your comfy shoes and coffee, and let’s go on another twenty-four hour adventure around Germany’s capital city!

Go to Museum Island

Berlin’s museums are absolutely amazing and must not be missed. Start early while you’re still energetic. You’ll also beat the tourist crowds by coming to Museum Island in the morning hours.

Full disclaimer: It was the height of the heatwave when I went to Museum Island. So I bought a pass for all the museums and hid inside the air conditioned buildings rather than venture much outside.

Seeing all the museums obviously extended well into my afternoon.

If you love museums, keep in mind it will take much longer than if you choose to see only one. Adjust this itinerary at your own discretion.

Museum Island has the following amazing attractions to include in your 2 days in Berlin:

• Pergamon Museum  displays beautiful exhibits on the Ancient East such as Babylon and Uruk. Out of all the museums, Perganmon was the most popular and drew the heaviest crowds so you want to get your ticket ahead of time. Keep in mind the Pergamon Museum is undergoing renovations until 2025.
• Bode Museum has work from four different eras. One of the best parts of this museum is its beautiful Sculpture Gallery displaying works ranging from the medieval period to the late 1700s.
• Neues Museum  is mostly known for its extensive collection of ancient Egyptian antiquities. The most popular piece in the Neues Museum is the Bust of Nefertiti.
• Alte Nationalgalerie is an art collection displaying works ranging from the Neoclassical and Romantic periods through early modern art.
• Altes Museum  takes you way, way, way back in time when the ancient Romans, Greeks and Etruscans thrived as civilizations. Go here if you love antiquity.

Two Days in Berlin: Afternoon

Feeling hungry at this point? Yup, you’re headed into your second afternoon in Berlin. Grab lunch.

My recommendation is to try some Turkish food during your two days in Berlin. This type of cuisine is fantastic considering Berlin international city with a large Turkish community.

Check out Berliner Dom

Berliner Dom or Berlin Cathedral is located on Museum Island in Mitte, which makes it easy to see after exploring one or several museums.

Berlin’s largest Protestant church was greatly damaged in the war and stayed firmly closed during the GDR years. Now it’s restored and open to the public once again.

Explore Alexanderplatz

Most people would agree that Alexanderplatz is definitely one of the most famous squares in all of Berlin. Many metro lines stop here. Alexanderplatz is easily recognized by Berlin Television Tower. Go to the top if you want.

See Television Tower, do some shopping, and partake in people watching. Alexanderplatz is an action-packed place to come see.

Walk along the East Side Gallery

No visit to Berlin is complete without stopping at the East Side Gallery.

As most of you know, East Side gallery consist of painted murals on the remaining remnants of the infamous Berlin Wall. Many murals display themes of hopefulness and upcoming positive change.

The most photographed mural is probably the depiction of Leonid Brezhnev and Erich Honecker kissing. The Gallery consists of over 105 paintings so take your time as you walk along the final stretch of the Berlin Wall.

Are you ready for another fun night in Berlin? I hope so. Tonight we’re focusing on a different district – one that is perfectly located – considering you just finished walking along East Side Gallery.

Spend the Night in Friedrichshain

Friedrichshain is another area known for it’s nightlife. Have dinner here before having a good time in this neighborhood. If you like shopping, you ought to come here early and check out the many different indie boutiques.

Lastly, Berlin’s clubs and pubs are particularly numerous around Simon-Dach-Straße and Boxhagener Platz. So, if you’re hoping to party a bit, then I recommend this area.

Learn a couple of phrases of Germany to make friends on your nighttime adventures.

Have a blast!

Transportation for 2 Days in Berlin

So how do you get around Berlin?

Getting around Berlin on local transport is relatively easy even for tourists.

Particularly, subways and trains run on a regular basis. During your two days in Berlin, you’ll probably take the U-Bahn and S-Bahn to maximize your time and see all the sights.

The U-Bahn  is Berlin’s subway or underground system. The U-Bahn system is huge, covering 10 different lines, and you can reach pretty much any part of the city using the subway. Another benefit is the U-Bahn runs all night long on Fridays and Saturdays allowing you to enjoy Berlin’s very vibrant and cool nightlife.

Meanwhile the S-Bahn  is Berlin’s light rail system. The S-Bahn links riders to areas technically “outside” Berlin including Berlin Schonefeld Airport.

Make sure to validate your tickets on the U-Bahn and S-Bahn. Plainclothes inspectors do check tickets. You don’t want to pay a fine so stamp your tickets at the machines.

2 Days in Berlin: Where Should You Stay?

Berlin has many types of accommodation available for travelers ranging from hotels to hostels to apartments. One of the perks of visiting a big international city like Berlin is that you’ll find a place to stay that suits your personal travel needs.

I stayed at East Seven Hostel located in Prenzlauer Berg. I had a great time! East Seven Hostel is small, which makes it easy to meet other people. I also liked unwinding in the outdoor terrace and common room areas after my long days of sightseeing. It’s the perfect place for a solo traveler.

Likewise, if hostels aren’t your thing, then I recommend selecting a neighborhood and renting an apartment. Personally, I recommend staying in Prenzlauer Berg, but of course, the choice is yours. If you’re new to AirBNB, you’ll earn a $55 credit with me when you sign up for the service.

Hostels in Berlin

• The Circus Hostel, on TripAdvisor.com and Booking.com
• EastSeven Hostel, on TripAdvisor.com and Booking.com
• The Grand Hostel, on TripAdvisor.com and Booking.com

Have Three Days? Potsdam Day Trip from Berlin

In my humble opinion, with a day to spare, you really ought to take a Potsdam Day Trip from Berlin.

Potsdam is home to a UNESCO World Heritage site and provides an even deeper perspective into Cold War history due to the strategic location of “The Bridge of Spies.”

Potsdam is very simple to reach on the train and is only located 35 minutes away from Berlin. Highly recommended.

Are you ready to spend two days in Berlin? What are your suggestions for Berlin? Share your thoughts in the comments.

Rachel Elizabeth

At 22, I took my first overseas trip to Bermuda. Took a break to follow the "American Dream." Had my self-esteem broken. Embarked on my first solo trip to Scotland at 26. The travel bug dug its way under my skin. I now book multiple trips a year.

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Berlin in 2 Days: everything you need to know

So you're planning a two-day trip to Berlin and don't know which places to prioritize? Here's how to organize your tour to get to know a bit of everything essential.

Katherine Betances

Berlin | ©VV Nincic

Ranked in the top 10 of the most visited cities in Europe, Berlin has a charm that makes you fall in love; if you have few days to explore this wonderful destination it is necessary to carefully organize the most outstanding activities to make the most of the city and see all that Berlin has to offer .

DAY 1: See the most important historical monuments of Berlin.

The first day of your Berlin tour is to explore the most outstanding historical monuments; for this I recommend you to walk around the entire central area visiting squares, boulevards, museums and government buildings.

Unter den Linden

Start the morning of your first day in Berlin walking along one of the most important avenues of the city and where many of its most representative historical buildings are located; many of which have suffered damage and consequent renovations throughout the war conflicts that have plagued the capital. Some outstanding buildings along the Unter den Lindenson Boulevard : the New Guard building, the Berlin Opera House, Humboldt University and others.

Brandenburg Gate and Pariser Platz

At the end of the Unter den Linden boulevard you will come across one of Berlin's main landmarks, the famous Brandenburg Gate . The monument that was once one of the main entrance gates to old Berlin is located at the foot of the Paiser Platz, one of the most important historical squares.

Book a guided tour of Berlin

German Parliament Tour

From Paiser Platz to the entrance of the former Reichstag building is only a four-minute walk. This is the best time to get to know the current seat of the German Parliament. Coordinate an excursion to visit the glass dome and the famous museum; in this space you can enjoy an important and modern historical museum, the glass structure is designed to function as a viewpoint from which you can see fantastic views of the center of Berlin .

• Hours: Every day from 08h to 24h.
• Admission fee: Free but you must book tickets to the Reichstag in advance.
• Duration of visit: 40 minutes to 1 hour.

Take a lunch break at the Reichstag Restaurant

During your visit to the Reichstag you can take the opportunity to have lunch at one of the most emblematic restaurants in Berlin, the Reichstag Restaurant . Located on the rooftop of the building right next to Norman Foster's glass dome, it is a fantastic rooftop garden offering a breathtaking view of the city.

• Specialty: Modern German cuisine made with fresh regional products.
• Reservations required: Yes, especially during peak tourist seasons such as the summer months in Berlin.

Holocaust Memorial

Walking south along Ebertstraße you will come across the Holocaust Memorial after a 10-minute walk. Consisting of 2711 concrete blocks, it is a memorial to the Jews murdered in Europe during World War II.

• Opening hours: From April to September the official opening hours are Tuesday to Sunday from 10 am to 8 pm; from October to March from 10 am to 7 pm.
• Admission fee: Admission is free.
• Duration of the visit: You should spend one hour on the tour.

Book a tour of the Third Reich at Berlin

Potsdamer Platz and Panorama Punkt viewpoint

Once the center of Berlin's activity, during World War II the square and the surrounding area were destroyed by bombing . During the Cold War it was split in two by the Berlin Wall; remnants of this historical past still remain.the square is worth visiting the Kollhoff Tower and the Panoramapunkt viewing platform which offers some of the best views of central Berlin.

• Opening hours: The viewing platform is open to the public from 10 am to 10 pm.
• Admission fee: Admission to the Panorama Punkt observation deck starts at 7,50€ for an adult ticket.
• Duration of the visit: You can spend 1 to 2 hours touring the square, the viewpoint and some of the buildings located around it.

Book tickets for Panoramapunkt in Berlin

Checkpoint Charlie

The name by which the most famous crossing point at the former Berlin Wall that divided the capital in two during the Cold War is known. This point became famous for the creative and curious escape attempts of citizens fleeing East Berlin by fooling the military guarding the point.

Evening: Dinner and concert night at Charlottenburg Palace

If you want to make the most of your two days in Berlin, I recommend dedicating the evening of the first day to visit one of the city's most visited tourist sights, which is a bit far from the center.

The beautiful Charlottenburg Palace is the venue where the Berlin Resident Orchestra performs and offers a wonderful dinner and concert plan at sunset. The three-course dinner is followed by an exquisite musical selection that includes the likes of Bach, Handel and Mozart. My recommendation? Arrive as early as possible and take a tour of the beautiful Charlottenburg Gardens.

• Hours: Closed on Mondays, the palace opens for tours from 10 am. From April to October it closes at 6 pm and from November to March it closes at 5 pm.
• Ticket price: The Dinner and Concert evening is available from 85€ per person.
• Duration of the visit: The dinner and concert starts around 6 pm with an average duration of 4 hours in total.

Or you may also be interested in taking one of the best cruises in Berlin . Sailing on the Spree River you will discover some of Berlin' s most popular neighborhoods and it is a great way to end your first night in the German capital with dinner on board of one of these boats.

Book a dinner cruise on Berlin

DAY 2: Explore Berlin's best art and history museums

Spend your second day learning about art and history; the German capital is the perfect place to do this because in addition to being the site of important historical events, its museums hold collections of art from all corners of the world .

Morning: Head to Berlin's Underworld Museum.

Start the morning of your second day by visiting a subway museum that explores life in the bunkers used in the city during the bombings of World War II. This is a unique tour and one of those activities you can only do in Berlin. The fastest way to get to this area of the city is to take the Berlin subway (line U8) the nearest stop is Gesundbrunnen station.

• Opening hours: From 10 am to 4 pm Monday to Friday and until 6 pm on Saturdays and Sundays.
• Admission fee: The adult ticket is available from 15 €. All tours have the same price except for the title of "escapes under the Berlin Wall" from 18 €.
• Duration of the visit: You should reserve at least 1.5 hours to visit the museum.

Take a lunch break

After your visit to the Berliner you can take an early lunch break in the surrounding area to recharge your batteries for the rest of your tour . Although in this area of the city the gastronomic offer is not as wide as in the center of Berlin, some interesting places you might consider are:

• Reis Mama Restaurant specializing in Vietnamese food just a few minutes from the Berliner.
• Nguyen Kitchen Modern Asian food, on their menu you can find sushi, noodle dishes and more.
• The Bird One of the best burger restaurants in the area. The specialty is the New York style burger.

Afternoon: Explore the highlights of Museum Island

To get to this area of the city I recommend taking the Berlin light rail (line U8) is Berlin Gesundbrunnen station a few minutes from the Berliner; get off at Alexanderplatz station and head to the Rathausbrücke bridge walking through St. Mary's Church Park; the idea is to enjoy an afternoon of art and architecture on Museum Island .

On your walk you can admire two interesting Berlin monuments: the beautiful Neptune Fountain and the Wasserspiele.

Once on the Museum Island take into account the closing hours of the museums, on your tour I recommend you to visit three important locations.

1st - The New Museum of Berlin: The Neues Museum is considered one of the best museums in the city for housing in its collection such important treasures as the bust of the Egyptian Queen Nefertiti , along with one of the largest collections of Egyptian treasures in Europe.

• Hours: From 10 am to 6 pm; on Thursdays extended hours until 8 pm.
• Entrance fee: Approximately 12€ per visitor.
• Duration of visit: Approximately 2 hours is recommended to see the museum, but if you are in a hurry you can see the highlights in 45 minutes.

2nd- The Pergamon Museum: Leaving the Neues Museum the famous Pergamon Museum is just to the left. One of the most important museums in Europe and the world, it is a must on any first trip to Berlin. Here are exhibited priceless treasures such as the famous Greek Pergamon Altar , more than 2000 years old and brought in parts to Germany from Greece itself, the view is breathtaking to say the least.

• Admission fee: The adult ticket is available from 12€.
• Duration of the visit: It is possibly the best museum in Berlin, spend about 2 hours to visit it.

3rd- The Berlin Cathedral: Near the Rathausbrücke bridge you will find the most important religious building of the German capital, built between 1894 and 1905 in a marked Renaissance-Baroque style . The cathedral is worth a visit for two things; for its imposing dome made of copper and for the Hohenzollern Crypt where 90 tombs of the imperial family are housed.

• Opening hours: From April to November the opening hours are from 09h to 20h; from October to March the opening hours are from 09h to 19h. This schedule applies every day except Sundays and holidays when the cathedral opens its doors at 12h.
• Admission fee: Approximately 7€ for an adult ticket.
• Duration of the visit: You will need 1.5 hours to explore the interior of the temple.

Book a guided visit to the Pergamon Museum and Neus

Sunset at the Berlin TV tower

If you finish your tour in plenty of time consider bidding farewell to your last day in Berlin by climbing to the top of the TV Tower to watch the sun set over the city. Built in 1969 this fantastic 368 meters high monument-viewpoint offers the best panoramic views of the whole city. Do you want to take pictures of Berlin ? This is the perfect place.

From your location on Museum Island you just need to return to St. Mary's Church Park, the tower is located right on the main square.

• Opening hours: The monument is open to the public until midnight from Monday to Friday; from March to October it opens at 9 am and from November to February at 10 am.
• Admission fee: You will have to pay about 23€ for the entrance ticket.
• Duration of the visit: 45 minutes is the average time visitors spend at the observatory, but you can stay there as long as you want.

You can get to the TV Tower in one of the best sightseeing buses in Berlin , an option that I recommend especially for your two-day trip in the German capital, as you can buy a 24 or 48-hour pass and during the different routes you can get off and on as many times as you want to see the sights you find along the way.

Book tickets to the Berlin TV Tower

The Best Travel Guide to Berlin

• Spain National Football Team Tickets
• 1. FC Union Berlin Tickets
• Reichstag Tickets Berlin
• Berlin in 5 Days: tips, what to see, and much more
• Berlin Traveller Tips
• 11 Best Things To Do in Berlin
• Berlin in 7 Days: everything you need to know
• Potsdam Day Trips From Berlin
• Berlin Tours
• Berlin Hop on Hop off Bus Tours
• Berlin Pass
• Sachsenhausen Concentration Camp Tours

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THE 5 BEST Berlin Multi-Day Tours

Multi-day tours in berlin.

• Sightseeing Tours
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• The ranking of tours, activities, and experiences available on Tripadvisor is determined by several factors including the revenue generated by Tripadvisor from these bookings, the frequency of user clicks, and the volume and quality of customer reviews. Occasionally, newly listed offerings may be prioritized and appear higher in the list. The specific placement of these new listings may vary.

1. The Real Berlin Walking Tour: Art, Food and Counterculture

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3. 2 Days (E)Bike or Rickshaw Shared but small Group

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6. 12-day trip of Germany for Families with kids age 10-15

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Two Days In Berlin On A Budget

Europe , Germany , Travel | September 23, 2015

How to spend two days in Berlin on the cheap

If you’re going to be in Berlin for two days and want to see its best bits without spending a fortune, walking tours are the best way to see the city’s countless historic sights as well as explore its little-known cultural gems in a short space of time.

In most cities, you’ll find free walking tours on offer and they’re usually ran by locals or students who brim with passion and knowledge about their city. In Berlin, head to Brandenburg Gate to find a tour you can join.

We did a Historic Berlin Walking Tour on day one in Berlin to see the textbook attractions, and spent our second day on an Alternative Berlin Walking Tour, where we were shown some of the city’s plentiful street art.

Both tours were free! We also took to the streets at night with a Berlin pub crawl, but that’s another story.

Our two day Berlin itinerary

Berlin is the perfect destination for a city break on the cheap, with budget flights from the UK, plenty of fun hostels and enough to keep you busy sightseeing for a few days without blowing all your cash. I flew to Berlin for two nights in February with the aim of seeing as much of the city as possible while spending as little of my student wages as I could.

Scotland had been blessed with relatively good weather for the time of year, and I chose to go to Germany where it was snowing. Hmm.

We stayed at Generator Hostel on lots of people’s recommendation, and got a free upgrade to a private room. Only a few stops from the airport, I would definitely recommend Generator!

Day 1: A Free Historic Walking Tour of Berlin

On the first day we did a free walking tour of Berlin, led by a very enthusiastic girl. It started at Brandenburg Gate outside the 1500 euro per night hotel that is infamous for that Micheal Jackson balcony incident, and we traipsed around the city from there, covering the Holocaust memorial, The Gendarmenmarkt, Humboldt University, the Book Burning Memorial, Berlin Cathedral, and lots of other things with German names I didn’t quite catch. It was really interesting and learning about history while standing on top of Hitler’s bunker is a unique travel experience.

Here’s a statue of a man punching a horse.

Berlin Nightlife

That night we did a pub craw with Canadians, drank triple vodkas and ended up at Matrix club. The Berlin nightlife is pretty much 24 hour but by 5am we were wrecked. A day trekking around in the snow had taken its toll. We got a midnight feast of Currywurst and Jagermeister – possibly the worst thing in the world. German delicacies are not delicious.

On the way back to Generator a girl on the train started whispering to me in German. It was only when her friend, who was slowly turning green next to her, threw up everywhere that I figured out what she was trying to warn me about.

Day 2: The best way to see Berlin’s street art

On day two we did The Alternative Walking Tour , so we really saw both sides of Berlin. Some of the street art was unreal! We went to Kunsthaus Tacheles, an art center which the now squatting artists have been forced out of due to demolition, thanks to the city’s gentrification. The Tacheles used to be full of workshops and studios, a cinema and even a nightclub. The pictured sculpture park below closed just after I was there after Nordbank decided they could get money out of it.

Did you know that millennials are now choosing Berlin instead of overpriced London?

I even spotted a Banksy piece next to his rival, Robboe’s artwork.

Earlier that day we had bought emergency toothpaste and unknowingly brushed our teeth in the door way of the Tacheles. Bad packing skills, but at least we seemed to delight a few bemused locals.

The tour ended at the Berlin Wall, then we explored the other side of the city but got cold so we went back to the hostel.

That night was a bit of a write off, as we headed out at 1am when the S-Bahn stopped running then spent 5 hours lost on buses in Germany. In the snow. At 5am.

Germany is a big and scary place. It was an interesting trip but I think I’ll only go back to Berlin in the summer.

Planning your own trip to Berlin? Search and book Berlin hotels on booking.com .

Was your experience of Berlin different to mine? Let me know whether I should come back in the sunshine in the comment sections!

Make sure you follow me on twitter  and Instagram and like my  Facebook  for more travel stories.

Iga Berry (@igaberry1) says

September 23, 2015 at 4:09 pm

Berlin is one of my fav cities! Actually I like it so much that I am considering taking German lessons! Let’s connect on Bloglovin Have a lovely day, Iga xxx

September 23, 2015 at 11:34 pm

Great read and great pictures. We loved Berlin but yes the bus system can be confusing we experienced that first hand aswell Cheers Mark

October 2, 2015 at 4:49 pm

Appreciate the Berlin budget tips! Great photos –

Stuart Forster says

October 12, 2015 at 1:43 pm

Berlin offers visitors great value for money. One of my favourite memories involved going up into the iconic glass cupola on top of the Reichstag building. Tickets for that are free but are worth booking well in advance as the queues can get quite long if you try to get hold of them while you’re in the city

Samantha says

October 13, 2015 at 10:36 am

I am hoping to visit Berlin very soon! Its a great city and I hear so many good things about it! I’d quite like to do the street art tour as well…and you should definitely visit again in the sunshine as it sounds like you had a good time there 🙂 And a city is always different in different seasons 🙂

christine says

October 13, 2015 at 2:48 pm

I love the currywurst there!!! Looks like you still had a good time on a budget 🙂

The Educational Tourist says

October 13, 2015 at 3:25 pm

I visited Berlin once as part of a whirlwind adventure where I just got a taste of a lot of place. Now I want to go back and spend more time. This is a great post! Thanks for the inspiration.

Mary Charie | Two Monkeys Travel says

October 14, 2015 at 6:46 pm

To be honest, most of the traveling blog site out there shows off summery sunny beaches and cities, what I love with this particular article is that you’re showing place, food and things we can do even it’s somehow cold. The biggest thing is, this is Berlin! And to visit it in a tight budget is awesome!

Simone says

October 16, 2015 at 1:59 pm

Oooh I want to visit Berlin so bad 🙂 Your photos are lovely & that is so good about the room upgrade! Winning 🙂 Simone x

Gypsycouple says

October 16, 2015 at 4:05 pm

Ooh!! Lovely pics!! We skipped Berlin the last time around opting for Munich and Frankfurt for our limited stay in Germany. Seems we’ll have to pay another visit soon

Jessica says

October 16, 2015 at 7:31 pm

I’m loving all of the colorful street art throughout your photos! Looks like a lovely time of year to visit, and you shared some great spots I will definitely have to add to my list for when I make it to Berlin. Thanks for sharing!

Nic from Roaming Renegades says

October 16, 2015 at 10:32 pm

I literally can’t wait to visit Berlin. I have been to Hamburg and absolutely loved Germany, I just know I will fall in love with Berlin! We will be one quite a budget when we visit too as it will as part of our RTW so this is great to know!

Anne Klien ( MeAnne) says

October 17, 2015 at 4:28 am

Berlin is high on my list this photo along the art street are gorgeous! Hopefully to get there next year.

Natasha Amar says

October 17, 2015 at 11:13 am

The street art in Berlin is the biggest reason I want to visit, and your pictures confirm that it’s very interesting.

October 17, 2015 at 5:20 pm

Awesome post and lovely photos! Been to Berlin in 2012 with 2 good friends, I must say your witty post title is spot on! The city is definitely interesting, a bit scary at times, but nonetheless has its own charm. Hope to be back soon!

Tatiana says

October 17, 2015 at 5:47 pm

That’s my city!!! 🙂 And, yes, you need to come back in summer! Berlin is a totally different place in summer, in winter it’s just grey and cold – even I get depressed here 🙂 And you definitely have to return to try a better currywurst! It can be tasty, too, have you tried some of the original ones, like at Curry36 or at Konnopke?

October 19, 2015 at 5:08 am

I love street art, and can’t wait to get to Berlin which is known for it. But Currywurst and Jagermeister?!? No way.

Dannielle Lily says

October 22, 2015 at 10:04 am

Hahah yeah not the tastiest combination Sean!

Hannah says

October 19, 2015 at 1:57 pm

Love this. People always think city breaks are expensive, but this proves they don’t have to be!

October 22, 2015 at 10:03 am

I think any trip is what you make it, regardless of budget! Thanks for your comment Hannah

Ashlee Litfin says

November 8, 2015 at 6:01 am

The street art looks amazing. The alternative walking tour looks like my kinda thing 🙂

Danielle says

April 21, 2016 at 8:09 am

I would love to do that alternative walking tour. I’ve been to Berlin several times (I live in Germany just a few hours from Berlin) but I haven’t seen nearly enough of the street art for my liking.

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• 7 June 2024

2024 Dulux Study Tour – Day 4, Berlin: A dialogue between old and new

By Jamileh Jahangiri

Day 4, everyone told me it was going fast!

As we embarked on an architectural adventure through Berlin, just the morning after we landed from Tokyo, the stark contrast to the bustling metropolis of Japan’s capital was evident. The surreal juxtaposition of these two cities was striking from the moment we landed.

In contrast with our rainy arrival experience, we were greeted by the warm spring sun and perfect weather, setting the tone for an insightful day today.

After breakfast, we met our tour guide, Richard Ollig, at Alexanderplatz to collect our bicycles. Our first stop was the Berlin City Models exhibition at the Senate Administration for Urban Development, Construction and Housing, where Richard passionately explained the city’s urban development. The discussion inevitably touched upon the Berlin Wall and its lasting impact. This reminded me of the “Unbuilding Walls” exhibit at the German Pavilion at the 2018 Venice Biennale, which delved into architectures of division and inclusion—a poignant parallel to Berlin’s history and its path to reunification. It is a story that, after 35 years, still impacts a city.

Next, we visited St. Agnes, which was a highlight of the day for me. Originally designed by Werner Düttmann, this historically listed plot was meticulously converted by Brandlhuber+ Emde, Burlon, and Riegler Riewe Architekten. Their minimally invasive interventions preserved the building’s historical and architectural significance, a testament to thoughtful conservation.

The Jewish Museum, designed by Daniel Libeskind, was our following destination. The emotional impact of walking through the “Memory Void” and the installation “Shalekhet” (Fallen Leaves) by Menashe Kadishman was profound. Over 10,000 faces cut from iron plates covered the floor, evoking a profound reflection on humanity and contemporary conflicts happening now around the world.

With heavy hearts, we continued to John Hejduk’s Kreuzberg Tower project, where we were able to see inside one of the apartments, thanks to Richard’s friends. We also visited the nearby Former Berlin Flower Market (IBeB) by Ifau + Heide & von Beckerath. Each site illustrated Berlin’s innovative approaches to urban development and community building while perfectly sitting next to the historic part of the city. Again, thanks to Richard and his friends, we also accessed the IBeB building and one of the studios showcasing circulation innovation and access to apartment planning, a mixed-use development that fostered a social mix and affordable living—a model for sustainable urban living. The studios and studio apartments include condominiums and cooperative rentals, promoting a social mix in the building. There is also space for a non-profit community organization and three commercial units.

Cycling through Park am Gleisdreieck, designed by Atelier Loidl, was a refreshing experience after a day like today. The park seamlessly blended Berlin’s industrial past with modern recreational spaces, emphasising robust, durable materials and fully retained vegetation. This approach to urban landscaping preserved the area’s history while creating a vibrant community hub. Mike said sometimes it’s best to sit, do nothing, and listen. Atelier Loidl did just that.

Our day concluded with a visit to the Kulturforum New National Gallery, designed by Mies van der Rohe. The sleek, modern elements complemented the historic structures, embodying a respectful dialogue between old and new architecture.

Sitting down tonight, reflecting on the day just passed, I see that the architectural interventions happening around Berlin propose a dialogue between old and new, showing architecture’s responsibility to history. We in this profession have a responsibility to the existing, whether an existing building like St. Agnes, an existing landscape like Park am Gleisdreieck, or the landscape we all work in Australia.

– Jamileh Jahangiri is founder of Studio Orsi.

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Two Days in Berlin: The Ultimate Guide – Itinerary + map

• April 28, 2024

Discover the allure of Germany’s top tourist destination, Berlin, celebrated for its rich history, vibrant culture, and trendy vibe. There are so many things to do here, figuring out where to go first can be a challenge. That’s why I’m sharing my guide on how to spend the best two days in Berlin!

Map of attractions in Berlin

Learn something new at museum island, sachsenhausen concentration camp, berliner fernsehturm – berlin television tower.

From exploring the city’s vibrant historical landmarks to venturing into its bustling shopping districts, my two-day Berlin itinerary offers something for every traveller!

Looking for things to do in Berlin on Sunday? Check out this guide! Looking for free things to do in Berlin? Check out this post! Want to know what to do in Berlin with kids? Check out this guide!

Two days in Berlin: What to do, see and visit

What you need to know.

• Is two days in Berlin enough? In my opinion, two days in Berlin is enough to hit up all the major tourist attractions you’ll want to see. To really get to know Berlin though I recommend a longer stay!
• How many days is ideal for Berlin? I think a week is always best when visiting a city, but if you’re organised and have a plan you can make any amount of time work!

Public transportation in Berlin

I always find getting around Berlin to be really easy. If you’re up for it, most places are walkable, but if you prefer public transport Berlin has a great system in place. The four main ways to get around are:

• U-Bahn (underground subway)
• S-Bahn (overground subway)

If you’re a keen biker, you’re in luck. Germany is incredibly bike-friendly and Berlin is filled with places to hire bikes. Alternatively, as with most major cities, there’s a  Hop-on Hop-off bus tour  that circulates the major attractions. I always use the U-Bahn and S-Bahn. You can purchase tickets  online   or at the ticket machines at the station. A ticket that covers the AB zone will cover you unless you’re heading out of the central city.  Important -you must validate your ticket before travel, this can be done via a machine on the platform . 

Berlin Welcome Card

If you’re aiming to explore numerous popular tourist spots, the Berlin Welcome Card is an ideal solution for saving money. After purchasing, the card allows free access to all forms of public transport as well as major discounts at over 180 attractions in the city.

How to use this map: Click on the markers for more information about each destination. The blue line shows the fastest walking route between each point. To save this map to your Google Maps, click the star in the top left corner.

Day one: Exploring the sites in Berlin

On your first of two days in Berlin, you’ll explore the city’s renowned major sites . Later on in the afternoon, visit the East Side Gallery before concluding your day with a visit to Museum Island , immersing yourself in culture and history.

Explore the city on a walking tour

If you’re in Berlin for the first time joining a guided walking tour is a great idea. It will help you get to know the city as well as some of its stories and history. Here are just a few of the tours available:

• Third Reich Berlin Walking tour: Perfect for history lovers, this tour is ideal for those wanting to get acquainted with Berlin’s history and what life was like during the Second World War.
• Guided Walking Tour: This tour hits all the major tourist attractions, explaining their significance and history.

Grab a photo at the Brandenburg Gate

My first stop on any trip to Berlin is always the Brandenburg Gate. This iconic landmark was once situated in the no man’s land dividing East and West Berlin. It now symbolizes unity and cohesion within the city and serves as a powerful reminder of Berlin’s turbulent past . Be sure to head there early in the morning to beat the tourist rush and get the perfect photo!

Get to know German politics at the Reichstag

Another one of the city’s best-known landmarks, the Reichstag building is a must-visit if you only have two days in Berlin! With its striking glass dome offering panoramic views of Berlin, a visit to the Reichstag is an unforgettable experience blending history, politics, and modernity. Walk around the dome and make sure to look below to see into debating chambers! Tickets will sell out here so be sure to book well in advance.

Take in panoramic views from the Victory Column

The Victory Column in Berlin stands tall as a symbol of triumph and unity, commemorating Prussia’s military victories. Set in the heart of Tiergarten Park the column also features a lookout point which you can climb up to for great views over the city. I find that the Victory Column is often overlooked by visitors. In my opinion, it is definitely worth a stop during your two days in Berlin.

Visit the Holocaust Memorial – The Memorial to the Murdered Jews of Europe

The Holocaust Memorial can be an imposing sight, featuring more than 2700 concrete pillars spread across 19,000 square meters, making it both striking and contemplative. Its meaning remains open to interpretation, encouraging visitors to reflect on what they see. At the heart of the memorial lies an information centre that’s well worth visiting. If you only have two days in Berlin this has to be on your list of places to visit!

Head over to Potsdamer Platz and see part of the Berlin Wall

Potsdamer Platz is one of my favourite hubs in Berlin and I always make sure to stop by. With a vibrant atmosphere, The Center provides fantastic dining and entertainment choices, while the Kolhoff Tower boasts breathtaking panoramic vistas from its observation platform . Within Potsdamer Platz stands a piece of the Berlin Wall , serving as a reminder of the city’s history.

Be transported back in time at Checkpoint Charlie

For history enthusiasts spending two days in Berlin, Checkpoint Charlie is an essential stop, offering a distinctive and vibrant glimpse into the past. Here, you’ll encounter actors portraying soldiers at a recreated border house from the divided city, perfect for capturing memorable photos! The Wall Museum is nearby for those looking to delve deeper into this significant era of history and the Cold War.

Wander along the East Side Gallery

The East Side Gallery in Berlin is a unique testament to not only the city’s tumultuous history but also its distinct artistic spirit . Stretching along a remnant of the Berlin Wall, this open-air gallery showcases over a hundred colourful murals , each telling a unique story of hope, unity, and resilience. I recommend beginning at Schlesisches Tor station and following the wall to work your way back into the city. This is one of the most popular tourist spots in the city and is a must-see if you only have two days in Berlin.

Visit the Berliner Dom – the Berlin Cathedral

A prominent feature of Berlin’s skyline, the Berlin Cathedral is a remarkable structure that provides insight into the splendour of imperial Germany. Ascend to the Dome for incredible views of the city centre before exploring the Hohenzollern Crypt , recognized as one of Europe’s most important burial sites . The Cathedral also features a museum for those wanting to learn more about its history.

A UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the top tourist attractions in the city, you can’t spend two days in Berlin without visiting at least one of the museums on Museum Island. It can be difficult to pick just one to explore, here’s a quick rundown of each of them:

• The Pergamon Museum: The Pergamon Museum features the Museum of Islamic Art and the Museum of the Ancient Near East. The showstopper here though is undoubtedly the Market Gate of Miletus.
• The Bode Museum: If sculptures are your thing make sure to head over to the Bode Museum. It features an endless display of sculptures as well as a great collection of over 4000 coins.
• The Neues Museum: If you’re interested in Egyptian history the Neues Museum is for you. Amongst its treasure trove of Egyptian artefacts lies the famous Nefertiti bust.
• The Altes Museum: With its collection of artwork , sculptures, vases, and over 1000 coins, this is one for antique enthusiasts .
• The Alte Nationalgalerie: The Alte Nationalgalerie boasts an impressive array of artwork. Highlights include masterpieces by renowned artists such as Monet and Renoir .

Looking for the best places to go in Berlin at night? Check out this post! Want to know all the best nightclubs in Berlin? Here’s my guide!

Day two: A trip out & Alexanderplatz

Day one was spent exploring Berlin’s main tourist spots, now you’ll be heading out of the city to discover more of Berlin’s significant historical sites . Later, immerse yourself in the bustling atmosphere of Alexanderplatz, one of Berlin’s most popular shopping spots.

Morning trip

I’ve picked out two of my favourite day trips out of Berlin for you to choose from, Charlottenburg Palace or Sachsenhausen camp . I’ve found that neither will take up a whole day, leaving plenty of time in the afternoon and evening for more activities in Berlin city center.

Schloss Charlottenburg – Charlottenburg Palace

The largest palace in Berlin, Schloss Charlottenburg showcases a magnificent blend of Baroque and Rococo extravagance. Once serving as the esteemed summer retreat for royalty , it now invites guests to step back in time and experience their lavish lifestyle. Explore the opulent Golden Gallery , marvel at the remarkable collection housed within the Porcelain Cabinet , and then head outside into the beautiful gardens.

Located just outside of Berlin, Sachsenhausen concentration camp remains as a harrowing reminder of the atrocities committed during the Holocaust. Offering guided tours and audio guides for rental, the site is adorned with informative exhibitions, providing visitors with a comprehensive educational experience. While a visit to Sachsenhausen is profoundly stirring, it also offers a valuable opportunity for reflection and, above all, remembrance.

Go shopping at Alexanderplatz

If you’re looking to spend some money, Alexanderplatz is the place to do it. Situated within the square, you’ll find the ALEXA shopping centre and GALERIA Berlin department store, offering an extensive array of goods to satisfy any shopping craving Be sure to check out the Weltzeituhr (World Clock) and the Fountain of Friendship! There’s so much to keep you busy at Alexanderplatz, it’s a must-visit if you only have two days in Berlin.

Instantly recognisable in Berlin’s skyline, the Fernsehturm provides unparalleled panoramic views from the highest spot in the city. For those with an appetite, head up to the tower’s restaurant for a unique dining experience with incredible views of Berlin below. The tower even offers an exciting VR experience where you can learn about the history and construction of the Fernsehturm. The Television Tower is unmissable and has to be on your Berlin two day itinerary!

Berlin will always leave you wanting more, but in my opinion, two days in Berlin is definitely enough to get a taste of what the city has to offer. With its array of museums, lively shopping districts, and an abundance of historical landmarks, there’s most certainly enough to keep you busy during two days in Berlin.

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UEFA EURO 2024 fixtures: When and where are the matches?

Saturday, June 8, 2024

Article summary

UEFA EURO 2024 kicks off in Munich on Friday 14 June and ends with the final in Berlin on Sunday 14 July. See dates, venues and schedule.

Article top media content

Article body

Check out the full UEFA EURO 2024 final tournament schedule below. All kick-off times are CEST.

When does EURO 2024 start?

Group stage.

14 June Group A: Germany vs Scotland ( Munich , 21:00)

15 June A: Hungary vs Switzerland ( Cologne , 15:00) B: Spain vs Croatia ( Berlin , 18:00) B: Italy vs Albania ( Dortmund , 21:00)

16 June D: Poland vs Netherlands ( Hamburg , 15:00) C: Slovenia vs Denmark ( Stuttgart , 18:00) C: Serbia vs England ( Gelsenkirchen , 21:00)

17 June E: Romania vs Ukraine ( Munich , 15:00) E: Belgium vs Slovakia ( Frankfurt , 18:00) D: Austria vs France ( Düsseldorf , 21:00)

18 June F: Türkiye vs Georgia ( Dortmund , 18:00) F: Portugal vs Czechia ( Leipzig , 21:00)

19 June B: Croatia vs Albania ( Hamburg , 15:00) A: Germany vs Hungary ( Stuttgart , 18:00) A: Scotland vs Switzerland ( Cologne , 21:00)

20 June C: Slovenia vs Serbia ( Munich , 15:00) C: Denmark vs England ( Frankfurt , 18:00) B: Spain vs Italy ( Gelsenkirchen , 21:00)

21 June E: Slovakia vs Ukraine ( Düsseldorf , 15:00) D: Poland vs Austria ( Berlin , 18:00) D: Netherlands vs France ( Leipzig , 21:00)

22 June F: Georgia vs Czechia ( Hamburg , 15:00) F: Türkiye vs Portugal ( Dortmund , 18:00) E: Belgium vs Romania ( Cologne , 21:00)

Did you know...?

As part of UEFA's commitment to making EURO 2024 a reference event for sustainability in sport, venues and matches have been organised in regionalised clusters. This reduces the number of flights taken by teams by 75 per cent compared to EURO 2016, as well as ensuring easier, sustainable transport between matches for supporters.

23 June A: Switzerland vs Germany ( Frankfurt , 21:00) A: Scotland vs Hungary ( Stuttgart , 21:00)

24 June B: Croatia vs Italy ( Leipzig , 21:00) B: Albania vs Spain ( Düsseldorf , 21:00)

25 June D: Netherlands vs Austria ( Berlin , 18:00) D: France vs Poland ( Dortmund , 18:00) C: England vs Slovenia ( Cologne , 21:00) C: Denmark vs Serbia ( Munich , 21:00)

26 June E: Slovakia vs Romania ( Frankfurt , 18:00) E: Ukraine vs Belgium ( Stuttgart , 18:00) F: Czechia vs Türkiye ( Hamburg , 21:00) F: Georgia vs Portugal ( Gelsenkirchen , 21:00)

Rest days on 27 and 28 June

When does the EURO 2024 round of 16 start?

29 June 38 2A vs 2B ( Berlin , 18:00) 37 1A vs 2C ( Dortmund , 21:00)

30 June 40 1C vs 3D/E/F ( Gelsenkirchen ), 18:00) 39 1B vs 3A/D/E/F ( Cologne , 21:00)

1 July 42 2D vs 2E ( Düsseldorf , 18:00) 41 1F vs 3A/B/C ( Frankfurt , 21:00)

2 July 43 1E vs 3A/B/C/D ( Munich , 18:00) 44 1D vs 2F ( Leipzig ), 21:00)

Rest days on 3 and 4 July

When do the EURO 2024 quarter-finals start?

5 July 45 W39 vs W37 ( Stuttgart , 18:00) 46 W41 vs W42 ( Hamburg , 21:00)

6 July 48 W40 vs W38 ( Düsseldorf , 18:00) 47 W43 vs W44 ( Berlin , 21:00)

Rest days on 7 and 8 July

When do the EURO 2024 semi-finals start?

9 July 49 W45 vs W46 ( Munich , 21:00)

10 July 50 W47 vs W48 ( Dortmund , 21:00)

Rest days on 11, 12 and 13 July

When is the EURO 2024 final?

14 July W49 vs W50 ( Berlin , 21:00)

Sign up for a free MyUEFA account to watch live streams and on-demand content, play games and challenge your friends, win money-can’t-buy prizes, and apply for tickets to Europe’s biggest games .

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2 Days in Berlin: Ideal Itinerary for 48 Hours in Berlin

This post contains links which earn me a small commission at no cost to you.

Ali Garland, Berlin expert & long term resident What to Do

If you only have 2 days in Berlin , you’ll have to plan those days to be able to soak in as much as this fantastic city has to offer in a short time period. You can’t see everything, but you can get a good taste of Berlin in two days . For those of you planning to spend 48 hours in Berlin , we’ve got you covered.

This Berlin 2 day itinerary will highlight the important landmarks and attractions you should definitely see. Then I’ll show you how to best plan out your itinerary to make the most of your short time here.

Here’s what to see and what to do in 2 days in Berlin .

What you'll find here

Tours to maximize your 2 days in Berlin

If you only have two days to see Berlin , a tour might be the best way to see a lot in a short amount of time. Here are a few we recommend:

• Berlin Half Day Walking Tour : See many of Berlin’s most important sights on this guided walking tour.
• Berlin Bike Tour : Explore more important Berlin attractions on two wheels with this fun bike tour.
• Berlin Small Group Third Reich and Cold War Walking Tour : Learn about Berlin’s World War II and Cold War history on this walking tour.

Where to stay in Berlin

Berlin has lots of great neighborhoods for you to stay in and explore. If you’re visiting Berlin for the first time, it might be best for you stay somewhere central.

Many of the attractions are in Mitte or easily connected to Mitte by Berlin’s public transport , so you should stay somewhere in that region. Here are a few hotels we recommend.

BUDGET: Circus Hostel Popular hostel with a bar/brewery downstairs

MIDRANGE: Circus Hotel Centrally located near restaurants & transport

UPSCALE: Westin Grand Centrally located, can chisel off your own piece of the Berlin Wall

UPSCALE: Westin Grand Luxury hotel where you can chisel off your own piece of the Berlin Wall

APARTMENT: Adina Apartment Hotel Kitchenette; near grocery stores, shopping, Museum Island

For a more detailed look at the different neighborhoods and our hotel recommendations, check out our guide to where to stay in Berlin .

Or read my full review of the 25Hours Hotel in Charlottenburg with fantastic views of the Zoo and Tiergarten.

Is 2 days in Berlin enough?

Berlin is a big city with loads of history, culture, and beauty. Even after living here for years, I’m still discovering interesting places.

So the short answer is no, two days in Berlin is not enough time to see everything. But if you want to visit Berlin in 2 days , you can still have an enjoyable time here.

It is enough time to see many of the highlights and learn some of the city’s history. It’s enough time to enjoy some of what this wonderful city has to offer, and hopefully entice you to come back another time.

Keep in mind there are a lot of things to see and do in Berlin . You can’t do all of it in several days, let along 2 days in Berlin .

But it’s better to spend two days in Berlin than to not visit at all. You’ll still have a great time exploring Berlin!

Hopefully this two day Berlin itinerary helps you decide which attractions are important to you and how much of the city you can realistically see in two days.

In this Berlin two day itinerary , you’ll get to see the city’s important landmarks and attractions, learn about the history, and soak up some funky vibes. And remember, there’s always more to see if you come back for another trip in the future.

>>Do you have more or less time? Check out our 1 day Berlin itinerary or our itinerary for 3 days in Berlin .

Places to visit in Berlin in 2 days

Berlin has enough amazing landmarks and activities to keep you busy for weeks. But there are certain places to visit in Berlin that every first time visitor should see. You could choose to take a sightseeing bus tour in Berlin to see a bunch of them in a short amount of time.

Berlin is one of the hippest cities in Europe, but it’s also filled with interesting history. People visit Berlin to learn about the city’s dark past as well as experience its unique modern vibe and taste a variety of international cuisines.

There’s a lot to take in if you only have a short amount of time here. Here’s our suggestions for what to see in two days in Berlin .

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Brandenburg Gate

Built in the late 1700s, Brandenburg Gate , or Brandenburger Tor in German, is Berlin’s last standing city gate.

During the Cold War, when Berlin was split into East and West, the border between the two sides ran just to the west of Brandenburg Gate. This meant the gate was in the East and ended up in the inaccessible section between the Wall and the border.

For many people, Brandenburg Tor represented the separation of the two sides of Berlin and Germany.

President Reagan gave his famous “Tear down this wall!” speech while standing in West Berlin on the western side of the gate. This strategic location meant people in Eastern Berlin could hear his powerful speech.

Today Brandenburg Gate represents unity. It is one of the most famous landmarks in Berlin , and even in all of Germany.

Even if you only have two days in Berlin, Brandenburg Gate is someplace you shouldn’t miss.

Important info Open 24 hours a day. Closest transport is the Brandenburger Tor S&U station where you can get the S1, S2, S25, S26, or U5.

One of the most famous sites in the city, the TV Tower is hard to miss. After all, it is one of the tallest structures in Germany and the European Union and stands 368 meters (1,207 feet) tall.

The Soviets inaugurated the Berlin TV Tower on October 3, 1969, and it was intentionally built to be seen from almost anywhere in Berlin. This holds true today, and you’ll see it pop out unexpectedly when you round a corner.

The original intent of the Soviets was for the TV Tower to represent the strength of communist East Germany. But today it symbolizes the reunification of Germany and is a symbol of Berlin itself.

The TV Tower, or Fernsehturm in German, is a great place for views of Berlin since it’s so tall. The elevator takes you to the viewing platform at about 200 meters high for fantastic 360 degree views of the city.

There’s also a revolving restaurant on a different level where you can enjoy the views while eating a nice meal.

If you’re only in Berlin for two days, buy priority tickets online ahead of time to reduce your wait. Waiting to buy your ticket at the door could mean standing around for an hour or more.

Book your tickets here .

Important info Observation deck opening hours: November – March 10 am to 10 pm

April – October 9 am to 11 pm

Closest transport is S&U Alexanderplatz where you can get the U2, U5, U8, S3, S5, S7, S9, a variety of regional trains, and tram lines M4, M5, M6.

Berlin Cathedral

The Berlin Cathedral, or Berliner Dom in German, is a gorgeous Protestant cathedral located on Museum Island. It should definitely be on your Berlin bucket list .

The cathedral dates back to the 15th century, though it has been rebuilt and restored several times throughout its history. When the city was split, it was in the East, and although there was some restoration work, it was not fully restored until a few years after the Wall fell.

This religious institution also serves as a tourist attraction and museum. Touristic visits are not permitted during services.

Tours are available and included with the admission fee if you are interested in hearing about the history of the cathedral. You can also climb 270 stairs for lovely panoramic views of Berlin.

With 2 days in Berlin, you probably have time to take the tour and go to the top. At the very least, you should at least stop by to admire the outside.

Important info Opening hours: Monday – Friday: 10 a.m. – 5 p.m. Saturday: 10 a.m. – 4 p.m. Sunday: 12 – 4 p.m.

Last admission in each case 60 minutes before. Guided tours are at specific times. Check here for more info.

Closest transport is the Museumsinsel Ubahn station where you can get the U5.

Museum Island

Museum Island is the name of a complex of multiple museums loaded with historic marvels, and it’s one of Berlin’s most popular sights. This Berlin UNESCO World Heritage Site is great for a day of cultural in the German capital.

Museum Island includes five museums to browse around in total: The Pergamon Museum, the Old Museum, National Gallery, Bode Museum and the New Museum.

Your two day Berlin itinerary probably doesn’t leave you enough time to visit the museums, but strolling around here and soaking up the architecture is still rewarding.

If going into one or more of the museums is a priority to you, you’ll probably have to cut out a few other sights from this 2 day Berlin itinerary.

Important info Opening hours: Tuesday through Sunday 10am to 6pm, closed Mondays. Holiday hours may differ.

The Museum Island Welcome Card gives you a 72 hour transport pass, free entry to all museums and collections on Berlin’s Museum Island (Pergamon Museum, Bode Museum, Altes Museum, Alte Nationalgalerie, and Neues Museum), and discounts at many other museums and attractions.

Another option is the normal Welcome Card which gives you discounted entrance to the museums on Museum Island plus discounts at many other museums and attractions. It also includes a transport pass with an option for either 48 hours, 72 hours, 4 day, 5 day, or 6 day.

Reichstag Building

Opened in 1894, the Reichstag Building is a unique masterpiece of art designed by Norman Foster. The building features excellent architecture and a unique glass domed top that you can tour.

It is also where German parliament meets, which means when you’re walking through the dome, you can see all those important people through the glass. The Reichstag building also has a rooftop terrace and restaurant, which provides panoramic views of Berlin.

On the Reichstag Building tour , you will learn about German history and about the building itself. Tours into the glass dome are one of the most popular free things to do in Berlin .

The free tour comes with an audio guide that takes about 20 minutes. If you decide to take the free tour on your Berlin 2 day itinerary, you probably need to allow at least 30-40 minutes total here.

There’s also a 90 minute tour that includes a visit to the glass dome.

Important info Plan ahead because advanced booking is required and opening hours vary.

Closest transport: About halfway between the Bundestag Ubahn station (U5) and the Brandenburger Tor Sbahn and Ubahn station (S1, S2, S25, S26, U5).

Tiergarten is one of the most popular parks in Berlin, and even though it’s located right in the middle of the city, it’s huge. It dates back to 1527 when it was a hunting ground, but these days, this vast green space has become a much loved public park for Berliners.

Throughout the park there are statues, memorials, ponds, tree-lined thoroughfares, and lawns. When the weather’s warm in Berlin, people flock here for leisurely walks, picnics, and generally hanging out with friends, making it a great spot to people-watch.

The park is located just west of Brandenburg Gate, so it’s easy to include a quick stroll in Tiergarten on your two day Berlin itinerary.

Important info The park is open 24 hours a day.

It’s a large park, so there are multiple transport options depending on what part of the park you want to reach. The section closest to Brandenburg Gate is easiest to access from the Brandenburger Tor S&U station where you can get the S1, S2, S25, S26, or U5.

Victory Column

Berlin’s Victory Column , or Siegessäule in German, is one of the more recognizable monuments in the city, and one you should see while spending 2 days in Berlin.

The column is located roughly in the middle of Tiergarten Park at a roundabout where a few major roads intersect the park. It was originally placed in front of the Reichstag until 1938, and it was constructed as a monument to Prussia’s victory in the Franco-German war.

Today this is a popular tourist attraction. The Victory Column stands at 67 meters (about 220 feet) tall, and for a small fee, you can climb 285 stairs to the observation deck for excellent views of Berlin.

Since the TV Tower can be a bit pricey, this is a good alternative for people traveling to Berlin on a budget .

Important info You can see this landmark any time of day, but if you want to climb the tower to the viewing platform, the opening hours are:

April to October: Mon-Fri 9:30 AM – 6:30 PM, Sat & Sun till 7 PM November to March: Mon-Sun 9:30 AM – 5:30 PM

The entrance fee is 4 euros, cash only. Closest transport is the Hansaplatz station on the U9, or the Großer Stern bus stop.

Holocaust Memorial

The Memorial to the Murdered Jews of Europe , often referred to as the Holocaust Memorial, honors the large number of Jewish people who were killed by the Nazi regime.

This somber memorial consists of 2,711 concrete blocks of varying heights, and the ground they sit on is an uneven slope similar to a wave. The information center showcases letters, diaries, photographs, and biographies of the victims to help personalize the experience.

Important info Entrance is free for both the outside memorial and the inside information center. The outside memorial is open 24/7.

The information center is open October – April, Tuesday – Sunday 10am – 6pm, and May – September, Tuesday – Sunday 10am – 8pm.

Photography is allowed (no flash inside) but please be respectful. Do not sit on or climb on the cement slabs or take selfies. This is a place to reflect and remember those who were murdered.

Closest transport: The memorial is located about halfway between S&U Brandenburger Tor where you can get the S1, S2, S25, S26, or U5 and S&U Potsdamer Platz where you can get the S1, S2, S25, S26, or U2.

Gendarmenmarkt

Gendarmenmarkt is one of the prettiest squares in Berlin. This historic square is home to an impressive trio of buildings: the French Church, the German Church, and the Konzerthaus.

Sadly the square was badly damaged during World War II , but today it’s mostly been restored to its former glory. Gendarmenmarkt is a great place to wander and see some of Berlin’s beauty, and if you’re here over the holidays, you can visit one of the most popular Christmas markets in Berlin here.

You can also climb to the top of the French Cathedral for some wonderful views of the square and much of central Berlin.

Important info The square is open 24 hours a day. The buildings located have different opening hours, please check them individually if you want to go inside.

Closest transport is the Hausvogteiplatz station on the U2, but it’s also not far from the Stadtmitte station on the U2 and U6.

Berlin Wall Memorial at Bernauer Str

The Berlin Wall was, and still is, an important piece of the city’s character and history. Although there are lots of different places to learn about the Wall, the Bernauer Strasse Berlin Wall Memorial is one of the best.

This 1.4km (0.87 mile) section of road includes one of the last remaining pieces of the Wall. The Wall divided the street, with buildings on one side in the East and buildings on the other side in the West.

Placards describe what it was like living on the eastern side of Bernauer Strasse before and after the Wall went up, how it affected the neighborhood, how people tried to escape, and more. Markers on the ground show you where apartment buildings once stood and where escape tunnels were built.

About halfway down the street, you’ll see building with a tower you can climb to see over the Wall and into the death strip. At the visitors center, you can watch two short films (alternating time slots for German and English) depicting the Wall in the city as well as what it was like out in the countryside where the Wall divided East and West Germany.

In my opinion, this is the best Cold War Era site in Berlin . It can take a decent amount of time to see all the different sections, so with only two days in Berlin, you’ll need to decide how much of it you can fit into your itinerary.

Important info Visitors Center opening hours: Tuesday to Sunday from 10 a.m. – 6 p.m.

Documentation Center opening hours: Wednesday to Sunday from 10 a.m. – 6 p.m.

Opening hours of the outdoor sections are listed as Monday to Sunday, 8 a.m. to 10 p.m., although there is no gate barring you from wandering around outside of these hours.

Closest transport to the Visitors Center is the Nordbahnhof Sbahn station where you can get the S1, S2, S25, or S26. The M10 tram also stops at Nordbahnhof, Gedenkstätte Berliner Mauer (where the tower is), and you can get the M10 or U8 at the Bernauer Str station.

East Side Gallery

The most famous section of the Berlin Wall is the East Side Gallery . It runs along a stretch of the Spree River in the former East and is covered in art.

At 1.3km (0.8 mile) this is considered the longest open air gallery in the world.

After the Berlin Wall fell in 1989, artists from around the world came here to paint murals on the Wall to celebrate Germany being reunited and to remind the world of terrible things that occurred here. Over the years, the art has changed several times.

Important info This popular attraction is open 24/7 but is best enjoyed during daylight hours.

Closest transport is the Ostbahnhof station (Sbahn) or the Warschauer Str S&U station.

Charlottenburg Palace

Built in 1695, this Baroque palace was named for Sophie Charlotte and served as her summer palace. It’s a gorgeous palace with ornate interiors and excellent gardens.

Today you can visit the museums inside to learn more about the palace’s history and enjoy the gardens. It’s well worth going inside for a visit, but if the insides of palaces and castles aren’t your thing, you can still wander through the grounds and see the gardens for free.

Important info Palace museum opening hours: November – March Tuesday – Sunday 10 am to 4:30 pm

April – October Tuesday – Sunday 10 am to 5:30 pm

Closest transport is the Schloss Charlottenburg bus stop on the M45 bus.

Kaiser Wilhelm Memorial Church

This famous landmark is one of the most important churches in Berlin. The original church was built here in the 1890s, but was damaged in WWII air raids in 1943.

Interestingly, the church was not rebuilt and instead has been left much as it was after the war. Its been nicknamed by Berliners as Der Hohle Zahn—literally “The Hollow Tooth”. It’s a stark reminder of the destruction of war.

Important info Opening hours: 9am to 7pm

Tours are offered several times a day, and though they are free, the church does ask for a donation of at least 5 euros.

Closest transport is S&U Zoologischer Garten or U Kurfürstendamm.

Tempelhof Park

One of Berlin’s most interesting green spaces is Tempelhofer Feld, a former airport that is now a huge park. In 1948-1949 during the Berlin Blockade, this airport was the hub of the Berlin Airlift, which kept West Berlin supplied with goods while land routes were blocked.

Tempelhof Airport continued to operate even after the Berlin Wall came down and East and West Germany reunited. It wasn’t until 2008 that the airport closed.

In 2010, it reopened as a public park, and the runway and airport building remain. Today you can enjoy walking, running, roller blading, cycling, kite surfing, and more all on a former airport runway.

There are grassy areas where you can have a picnic, gardening areas, fenced dog areas, bird protection areas, and more. This park is a Berlin favorite.

Important info Opening hours: The park hours vary by month, but in general the park is open from dawn to dusk. Entrance is free, though most of the airport building is only accessible on a tour.

Closest transport: This is a huge park with multiple entry points, so there are several different S&U stations near the park.

• Southwest: S+U Tempelhof on the S41, S42, S45, S46, S47, and U6 lines. This station is the closest to a park entrance.
• West: Paradestraße on the U6 line.
• East: Leinestraße or Boddinstraße on the U8 line. You won’t immediately see the park from these stations, but it’s not too long of a walk.
• Northwest: Platz der Luftbrücke on the U6 line. This will get you near the airport building, but it’s probably the least convenient station for the actual park.

Topography of Terror

The Topography of Terror Museum is located where the headquarters of the Gestapo and the SS was between 1933 and 1945. Persecutions and killings of Nazi opponents were organized here, and the genocide of Jews, Roma, and Sinti was also coordinated here.

It now serves as a place to remember history and warn us from repeating the terrors of the past. The exhibits here use photographs and documentation to tell visitors about the crimes that were organized here.

You’ll also see excavation sites where you can view through glass windows. There’s also a long section of the Berlin Wall that still stands here.

Read my full guide to visiting Topography of Terror Museum .

Important info Opening hours: Daily 10 am – 8 pm. Holiday hours may differ. Entrance is free.

Closest transport is Kochstraße where you can get the U6; Anhalter Bahnhof where you can get the S1, S2, S25, or S26; or Potsdamer Platz where you can get the S1, S2, S25, or S26, or the U2.

Palace of Tears

The Palace of Tears, or Tränenpalast in German, is located at Friedrichstraße train station and was constructed in 1962. It was originally used by the East German dictatorship as a departure terminal for people from West Berlin who were coming to visit people in East Berlin.

At this location, many people were denied access to the border and forced by border guards to leave their families and friends in tears. Today, the museum is a reminder of the separation of Germany and all the tears that were shed in connection with it.

When you visit Berlin, be sure to look out for the ‘Palace of Tears, Side of German Division’ exhibition. Hosted at the Palace of Tears pavilion, this exhibition features documents, films, original objects and interviews from affected individuals.

Important info Opening hours: Tuesday – Friday: 9 am – 7 pm, Saturday & Sunday: 10 am – 6 pm. Holiday hours may differ. Entrance is free.

Closest transport is the Friedrichstraße Sbahn and Ubahn station where you can get the S1, S2, S3, S5, S7, S9, S25, S26, and U6, as well as trams 12 and M1.

Learn more about visiting the Tränenpalast Museum in Berlin .

Two days in Berlin itinerary

I’ve listed a lot of attractions up there, and it’s very possible you won’t get to all of them in two days. Remember that it’s better to enjoy the sights even if it means having to cut out a few.

Focus on your priorities. Everyone has different interests, so it’s reasonable to tweak this Berlin itinerary to fit your desires and pace. Don’t rush if you’re not going to enjoy yourself.

I’ve written this two day itinerary as if you’re arriving the night before, spending two days in Berlin, and then leaving in the morning, for a total of 48 hours of exploring and 3 nights. But you can adjust the itinerary a bit if you only have 2 nights.

You might not have time to go inside each attraction mentioned here. Know what your priorities are, and be willing to compromise, because two days in Berlin really isn’t enough to see everything.

For example, Berlin has lots of places for views of the city from above , such as the TV Tower, the Victory Column, the Berlin Cathedral, and Panorama Punkt, but it takes time to do each of them.

If you really like views from above, choose one, but otherwise it’s it’s ok to only see the outsides of some attractions.

And you might not have time to go into museums. Or if going in is important to you, you’ll have to compromise and cut something else out of your Berlin itinerary.

The important thing is to use this two day Berlin itinerary as a guide. Make adjustments based on your interests, and stay flexible where possible.

Also, a Berlin day ticket will be your best friend for this itinerary. Buying two 24 hour tickets means you can ride Berlin public transport as many times as you want for 24 hours from when you validate your ticket.

Set your alarm, because you’ll need an early start to see as many sights on your Berlin bucket list as possible.

If your hotel offers breakfast, grab something quick. Otherwise, there’s bound to be a bakery nearby where you can buy a tasty German pastry to eat on the go.

Start your sightseeing at the East Side Gallery. Since it’s open 24 hours a day, this makes a good starting point so you don’t waste any time.

I recommend arriving at the East Side Gallery by 8am at the latest, earlier if possible. This will give you plenty of time to enjoy the art and make it to your next stop by 9am.

The closest transport stations are U Warschauer Str near one end, which you can reach using the U1 or U3, or Ostbahnhof train station, which you can reach using S3, S5, S7, or S9. Start from one of these stations and end at the other.

Once you’ve had your fill, make your way to Alexanderplatz. If you’ve finished seeing the East Side Gallery near Ostbahnhof, hop on the Sbahn to Alexanderplatz.

If you finished near Warschauer Str, you’ll also need to get the Sbahn, but note that the Sbahn station and the Ubahn station are separate. So when walking from the East Side Gallery, you’ll see the Ubahn first, and the Sbahn is shortly after that.

>>Read: 23 Memorable Berlin Souvenirs to Bring Home With You (+ ones to skip)

Alexanderplatz is a big transport hub, plus there’s shopping and a few places to eat here. If you have a couple minutes, go check out the square itself and see the World Time Clock.

Next, go see the TV Tower. Don’t forget to book your skip-the-line ticket here ahead of time!

The views from the viewing platform are unbeatable. As you wander around up top, info signs will tell you what you’re looking at.

The TV Tower opens at 9am from April to October (it doesn’t open until 10am from November to March) so if you book your ticket for a 9am time slot, you should be able to get in right as they open.

Once you’re done, make your way to Museum Island. It’s about a 10 minute walk from the TV Tower to the Berlin Cathedral, or you can hop on the tram for one stop to get you halfway there.

Walking is probably easier here though. Wander past the Neptune Fountain, through the park, and cross the Spree River.

You can’t miss the Berlin Cathedral. It’s an impressively large and gorgeous church, and it’s worth stopping for some pictures, even if you don’t have time to go inside for a tour.

The park in front of the cathedral is called Lustgarten. The other building you’ll see here is the Altes Museum, one of the five museums in the Museum Island ensemble.

Since you’re only in Berlin for two days, going into one of the museums might not be feasible. If this is a high priority for you, decide what other attraction(s) on this itinerary isn’t so important to you and cut it for time.

Otherwise, have a wander through the green spaces here and admire the architecture of the different museums. Not only do they hold important exhibits and artifacts, but the buildings themselves are quite impressive.

Across the street from the Berlin Cathedral and Lustgarten is the Humboldt Forum. This rebuilt Berlin Palace is now home to an arts and cultural museum.

On the other side of the river from the cathedral is the German History Museum. If this interests you, definitely make time for it, but again, you might have to make a few other compromises with only two days.

Now start walking west along Unter den Linden.

Unter den Linden

The wide boulevard you’re now walking on is called Unter den Linden , named for the linden trees you’ll see along the way. It’s a beautiful street with many landmarks, museums, and other attractions.

Luckily there are quite a few of Berlin’s top sights here that are easy to see and enjoy even when you don’t have much time.

You’ll pass Neue Wache, a memorial to war victims. Then there’s the Berlin State Opera House. Next is Bebelplatz square with the Nazi book burning memorial.

In the middle of the street, you’ll see a statue of a man on a horse. That’s Friedrich the Great, king of Prussia.

Shortly after this, I recommend turning left onto Charlottenstrasse to reach Gendarmenmarkt, which is such a pretty square, it’s worth a quick detour. But if you’re trying to make time for other activities, don’t worry about skipping it.

After you’ve been wowed and taken some photos, head back to Unter den Linden. Keep walking west, and in a few minutes, you’ll see Brandenburg Gate.

Are you really strapped for time? If you’d rather skip walking down Unter den Linden, hop on the U5 from Museum Island (Museumsinsel station) and take it a couple of stops to Brandenburg Gate (Brandenburger Tor station).

Once you stop for a few photos and then pass through Brandenburg Gate, you’ll see Tiergarten park in front of you. At the big street (Strasse des 17 Juni) that basically dead ends at Brandenburg Gate, you’ll be able to see the Victory Column in the distance.

Turn left and walk a few minutes until you see the Holocaust Memorial. I recommend crossing over to Tiergarten and wandering through the eastern edge of the park on your way to the Holocaust Memorial.

The memorial is on the same side of the street as Brandenburg Gate, so you’ll have to cross back over when you see the big blocks that form the memorial. Wander through the rows of blocks along the uneven ground, and if you have time, check out the info center inside.

Bernauer Strasse Wall Memorial

Once you’re done at the Memorial to the Murdered Jews of Europe, it’s time to go to the Berlin Wall Memorial at Bernauer Strasse. To get there, walk back through Brandenburg Gate to the Brandenburger Tor Sbahn station, and take the S1, S2, S25, or S26 the Nordbahnhof station.

From there it’s a short walk to the Bernauer Strasse visitors center. If you have time to watch the short films, they are fantastic.

Then take as much time as you can manage to explore the rest of the exhibits on Bernauer Strasse, including the tower at the midway point.

The other end of the memorial is near Schwedter Strasse, which is a few blocks past the Bernauer Strasse Ubahn station.

You’re probably nearing the end of your first day by now. Check out Schwarzwaldstuben or Gaststätte Sophieneck for a traditional German dinner.

Start day two by visiting the Reichstag Building. Remember you need to book well in advance in order to get a time slot for the free tour, so plan ahead.

The free tour is really worthwhile, but if you couldn’t snag a spot or you don’t have time, it’s still worth checking out this impressive building.

After you’re finished at the Reichstag Building, head over to Tränenpalast, or Palace of Tears. It’s a short walk along the river, otherwise take the U5 one stop to Brandenburger Tor and switch to the Sbahn, either the S1, S2, S25, or S26, for one stop to Friedrichstrasse.

The museum is located just outside the Friedrichstrasse station.

Next hop on the U6 going south and get out at Kochstrasse. Take a quick photo of Checkpoint Charlie before making your way to Topography of Terror, which includes both an outdoor and an indoor exhibition about Nazi crimes.

Tempelhofer Feld

This park that was once an airport is one of the most loved parks in the city, and it’s packed with history. Take the U6 south to Platz der Luftbrücke to see the Airlift Memorial and the former airport building.

You can take a tour of the airport, or visit the exhibits in the visitors center. Then check out some of the nearby sections of the park where the runway still stands.

For something completely different, head over to Charlottenburg Palace, one of the prettiest castles in Berlin . The castle is gorgeous inside and out, but if you don’t have time to go inside, you can admire the outside and the castle’s gardens for free.

To get to the palace from Tempelhof, take the U6 south to S&U Tempelhof and switch to the S41, which is the Ringbahn line going clockwise. Get out at Westend, and switch to the M45 bus going towards Zoo, and get out at the Schloss Charlottenburg stop.

If you have time, consider going to see Kaiser Wilhelm Memorial Church. It’s a short bus ride away on the M45 bus towards Zoo; get out at Jebensstr and it’s a short walk from there.

For dinner, try Lemke Brewery near Charlottenburg Palace. And if you’re looking for fun cocktails with a view, I highly recommend Monkey Bar in the 25Hours Hotel , one of the best rooftop bars in Berlin .

Where to eat in Berlin

Berlin is a huge city, and where you eat depends in part on where you are at meal times. And remember, this is a multicultural city, and there’s really delicious food of all kinds, not just German food.

• Schnitzelei : Possibly the best Schnitzel I’ve ever had. This links to their Mitte location, and they have one in Charlottenburg.
• Gaststätte Sophieneck : Traditional German pub atmosphere, in Mitte.
• Lemke : Brewery with a full menu, 2 locations in Mitte and 1 in Charlottenburg.
• Schwarzwaldstuben : German cuisine from the Black Forest region, in Mitte.
• Jäger & Lustig : Rustic German restaurant with a large beer garden, in one of my favorite restaurants in Friedrichshain .
• Mutzenbacher : Ok this one is Austrian, but it’s delicious, in Friedrichshain.

For more restaurant recommendations check out these articles:

• German Restaurants in Berlin
• Restaurants in Berlin Mitte
• Restaurants in Friedrichshain Berlin

Can you see Berlin in 2 days?

I might be biased, but I think there’s so much to do and see in Berlin that 2 days isn’t nearly enough. But I’ve also traveled enough to know that most people don’t have the time to spend more than a few days in any one city.

Two days is enough to see most of what I’ve mentioned in this itinerary. Only the most ambitious travelers will actually make it to everything listed here because it is quite a fast pace.

And remember, if something really doesn’t interest you, you’re allowed to skip it. Customize this itinerary in a way that works for you and allows you to see the sights that are important to you.

And don’t forget to see how to get from Berlin airport to the city center before you arrive.

Berlin two day itinerary FAQs

Here are some frequently asked questions about what to do in Berlin in 2 days and planning a Berlin itinerary.

Is 2 days enough in Berlin?

Two days in Berlin is better than just one day, and you can see a lot of the highlights in two days. But can you manage more time?

I really feel like 3 days is the minimum you should spend in Berlin to see the major attractions and some of the city’s vibe that’s hard to see without venturing away from the tourist track.

But however much time you have is enough to at least get a taste for Berlin. I love this city, and hopefully two days in Berlin is enough to convince you to return for another trip.

How to visit Berlin in two days?

It’s not impossible to visit Berlin in two days, but it’s a little tight. A walking tour like this one or a bike tour like this one will help you make the most of your time and see a lot more than you could see on your own.

Hopefully my two day Berlin itinerary above helps you understand what there is to see and do so you can plan out your time here.

What to do in 48 hours in Berlin?

With 48 hours in Berlin, you can see the major attractions, like the TV Tower, Berlin Cathedral, Museum Island, Brandenburg Gate, Holocaust Memorial, Reichstag Building, Bernauer Strasse Wall Memorial, and East Side Gallery.

This is also enough time to eat some delicious food, go to a club if you’re interested in Berlin nightlife , and get a feel for Berlin’s laid back vibe.

How many days in Berlin is enough?

Ideally I think 3 days in Berlin is enough to really see the sights and get a good feel for the city.

If you have time for 3 days, that would be ideal, but make the most of however much time you have. You can still see and do a lot in 2 days.

Read more: How Many Days in Berlin Do You Need?

What is the best month to visit Berlin?

Really the best time to visit Berlin is when you are able to come here. But some months are better than others, if you have the flexibility to choose when to visit.

May is a great month to visit Berlin for mild weather and fewer crowds. September and October are also nice for similar reasons.

Read about what to do in Berlin in spring and what to do in Berlin in autumn .

Is Berlin cheap for tourists?

Berlin is a reasonably cheap city compared to other big cities in western Europe. Things are getting more expensive, but it’s still a cheap city for tourists.

The most expensive thing is likely to be your accommodation. But you can still find cheap food here, and so many sights and attractions are either free or inexpensive.

Be sure to check out these free things to do in Berlin , these cheap things to do in Berlin , and my money saving tips for visiting Berlin on a budget .

Book a tour for your trip to Berlin

• Third Reich Berlin Walking Tour – Hitler and WWII
• Berlin TV Tower Skip-the-Line Ticket
• Discover Berlin Half-Day Walking Tour

Berlin Travel Resources

I want you to have the best trip to Berlin, and hopefully this itinerary for two days in Berlin is helpful. But there are lots more tips on the site!

• 101 Best Things to do in Berlin
• 23 Impressive Castles in Berlin (And Nearby)
• 27 Best World War II & Cold War Sights in Berlin
• 29 Fun Day Trips From Berlin
• 75 Things to Know Before Visiting Berlin: Essential Berlin Travel Tips
• What to Wear & What to Pack for Berlin, Germany: Your Ultimate Berlin Packing List
• How to Get Around in Berlin: An Easy Guide to Berlin Public Transportation

Check out my favorite travel planning sites and resources

These are the sites I like for travel planning, plus items I like to travel with.

Planning Booking.com : Find a Berlin hotel here.

Rick Steves and Lonely Planet : My favorite guidebook resources.

Tours, Activities, Tickets Viator : Great site for finding tours and other activities.

GetYourGuide : Another good option for tours and activities.

Transport Welcome Pickups : No stress option for airport pickups.

Discover Cars : Find a rental car for Germany road trips.

Deutsche Bahn and FlixBus : Best options for getting around Germany.

Packing Orange SIM & eSIM : Great option for SIM & eSIM cards for German & EU.

Collapsible water bottle , plug adapter , and stuff bag : Small things that will make your trip a little easier.

Packing Orange SIM & eSIM : Great option for SIM & eSIM cards for Germany & EU.

Book a local photographer Flytographer : Hire an amazing local photographer anywhere in the world. Use code BERLINTRAVEL to get $25 off your first photo shoot.

Related Posts

What to do in Berlin on Monday: 25+ Museums & More

What to do in Berlin on Sunday: 15+ Ideas

Best Berlin Hop On Hop Off Bus Tours

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Adam Hadwin, Corey Conners battling for Olympic bid at the Memorial Tournament presented by Workday

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DUBLIN, Ohio – Adam Hadwin and Corey Conners’ top focus at the Memorial Tournament presented by Workday is the same as most weeks: win. But there’s more than just a victory at stake for the Canadians.

The Olympic golf qualification period ends after the U.S. Open next week, and while Nick Taylor has locked up one of the spots on Team Canada, the second spot is up for grabs and Hadwin and Conners are the leading candidates.

The qualification criteria are based on the Official World Golf Ranking and Conners (No. 45) holds a substantial but surmountable lead over Hadwin (No. 59). The lead would be erased if Friday’s leaderboard at Muirfield Village Golf Club holds through the weekend.

Hadwin was the clubhouse leader at 6-under when he finished his second round, with Conners at even-par, six shots back. If Hadwin wins the Memorial, his first win in seven years, he would move into the No. 2 spot on the Canadian team, regardless of Conners’ finish. That remains the case for Hadwin if he finishes in a five-way tie for second or better and finishes ahead of Conners.

The particulars after that get fuzzy and depend on more than just Hadwin and Conners’ finish, which is why Hadwin and Conners’ minds aren’t drifting very far.

“I am going to do my best to try and win a golf tournament. That's it,” Hadwin said. “That's my sole focus. Obviously Corey's having a pretty decent week himself right now, so, yeah, trying to win a golf tournament, trying to stay in the same frame of mind, the same process, all those sort of things and, I mean it's been seven years since I've won, so I think it's about time.”

“Just trying to have fun on the golf course, do my thing and play well, just stick to the game plan … and keep playing well,” Conners said Thursday.

Corey Conners holes 26-footer for birdie at the Memorial

Conners’ second round fell apart on the back nine. Seven-under for the tournament after a front-nine 33, Conners bogeyed 10, 11 and 12 and made double on the par-5 15th. He bogeyed the 16th and 18th as well to card a 4-over 76.

That firmly moved Hadwin into pole position, but 36 holes at Jack’s Place stand between him and a lead in the OWGR and a possible spot at the 2024 Olympic Games in Paris. A top finish for Hadwin this week wouldn’t secure the spot outright. There will be significant OWGR points available at Pinehurst No. 2, but whoever emerges from Muirfield ahead will benefit from controlling their destiny in the final week of qualification.

May the best Canadian win.