The Brandenburg Gate is the last standing part of the western side of the Customs Wall that surrounded Berlin in the 18th century. It marks a monumental entry to Unter den Linden, the famed boulevard lined with lime trees that once led to the palace of the Prussian monarchs.

This neoclassical landmark was built between 1788 and 1791 during the reign of King Frederick William II of Prussia. Inspired by Roman triumphal arches and the classical Greek gateway to the Acropolis of Athens, the gate has twelve fluted Doric columns flanked by two pavilions originally occupied by guards, as well as five passageways, and reliefs depicting the Labors of Hercules. Its crowning glory is the bronze Quadriga sculpture – the goddess of victory atop a four-horsed chariot, originally regarded as a symbol of peace.

Throughout its history, the gate has played a crucial role in Germany's political narrative. In 1806, during the French occupation, Napoleon ordered its dismantling and transportation to Paris. However, upon its return in 1814, after Napolean's defeat, the gate was declared a symbol of victory, and the goddess was adorned with the Prussian eagle and iron cross, symbolizing triumph. The structure has stood witness to many pivotal events in Berlin's history, from military parades to the rise of the Third Reich and Hitler's ascent to power, upon which it was used as a Nazi propaganda symbol.

The Brandenburg Gate also holds memories of the Fall of Berlin and the Russian flag's raising in May 1945. After World War II, it stood damaged but intact and became part of the Soviet occupation zone. During the Cold War era, the gate – blocked by the Berlin Wall from 1961 until the fall of the Berlin Wall in 1989 – remained in no-man's land between East and West Germany. Back then, it served as a defining symbol of Berlin's and Germany’s division and their eventual reunification.

Today, the Brandenburg Gate is a venue for commemorations and public events. Apart from being a photo-op, its historical importance is just as good a reason to visit.

Tip:
Consider visiting at night when the gate is beautifully illuminated and less crowded, allowing for contemplation of its storied past and symbolic value.

Unter den Linden, which means “Under the Lime Trees” in English, is a historic boulevard in the heart of Berlin, running east-west from the Berlin Palace to Paris Square and Brandenburg Gate.

The street was originally established as a bridle path, in the 16th century, by the Prince-Elector John George of Brandenburg to access his hunting grounds in the Tiergarten. It was later transformed into a tree-lined boulevard, in the 17th century, by Electress Dorothea Sophie, who initiated the development of a new suburb named in her honor.

Over time, Unter den Linden became a key part of Berlin’s urban expansion, connecting major streets, like Friedrich Street and Wilhelm Street, and serving as a central axis through the city. It was designed to resemble the grand boulevards of Paris and became known as Berlin's most renowned street by the 19th century.

During World War II, the lime trees along the boulevard were destroyed but then replanted in the 1950s.

Landmarks such as the Berlin Cathedral, Bebel Square, and Humboldt University line the Unter den Linden. Other notable sites include the Old Commandant's Office (at Number 1), the German Historical Museum (at Number 2), the Crown Prince's Palace (at Number 3), and the Berlin State Library (at Number 8). At the western end of the street are the Russian and Hungarian Embassies. Also, adorning the boulevard are a number of statues such as those of the Humboldt brothers, Alexander and Wilhelm, who were prominent scientists, and several Prussian generals.

You can also find multiple cafés, restaurants, upscale shops, and even luxury car dealerships like Bentley and Mercedes-Benz. Often teeming with tourists and students exploring the book stalls around Humboldt University and the State Library, Unter den Linden serves as the backdrop for many outdoor events.

Taking a leisurely stroll along this broad avenue is a fine pastime that offers a good feel of both German history and contemporary trends. So, lace up your walking shoes and immerse yourself!

Tip:
If you visit in September or October, be sure to catch the Festival of Lights, which transforms landmarks and buildings across the city through the use of illuminations, luministic projections, and 3D mapping.

Officially named The Memorial to the Murdered Jews of Europe, this solemn expanse of concrete, situated near Berlin’s Brandenburg Gate, stands as a stark and enduring tribute to the millions of Jewish lives extinguished under the Nazi regime between the years 1933 and 1945.

Unveiled in 2005, the memorial was conceived by American architect Peter Eisenman. It spans nearly 19,000 square meters and consists of more than 2,700 concrete stelae-each of varying height and dimension-arranged in a strict grid across a subtly sloping field. The result is a landscape that is simultaneously orderly and disorienting.

Though the design is intentionally abstract and, according to its creator, devoid of explicit symbolism, its resemblance to a graveyard is unmistakable. Some interpret the sea of grey pillars as evoking unmarked graves or the cold efficiency of a bureaucratic system that facilitated mass murder. Others see in its rigid structure a metaphor for a state that lost its humanity behind walls of administration and ideology.

As one moves deeper into the memorial, the concrete blocks grow taller, eclipsing the cityscape and swallowing sound. The sensation is deliberate. It conveys isolation, loss of identity, and the disorienting fear that accompanied the systematic persecution of Jews under the Third Reich. The path dips downward, suggesting the slow descent into darkness that defined those years.

The unfinished quality of some surfaces serves as a quiet reminder: remembrance is not complete, and history’s wounds do not fully heal. The fragmentation of space may reflect the fragmented memories of survivors-and of those lost, whose stories were never told.

This memorial does not offer resolution or unity. It does not attempt to console. Instead, it confronts. It calls forth reflection-on individual memory, on collective guilt, and on the enduring responsibility to remember, in a world where forgetting is all too easy...

Reichstag is one of Berlin’s most enduring symbols. Its stone walls have borne witness to the tides of history, mirroring Germany’s tumultuous political evolution: from imperial unification, through dictatorship and division, to a modern democratic republic.

Once referring to the legislative body of the German Empire, today, the word “Reichstag” more commonly denotes the iconic building housing the country's parliament, Bundestag.

Following the unification of Germany in 1871, plans were laid to construct a grand hall for the newly formed state (“Second Reich”). Completed in 1894, the Neo-Baroque structure was intended to reflect the strength and unity of the empire. In 1916, amidst a world at war and against the wishes of Emperor Wilhelm II, the inscription-"To the German People"-was carved into the frieze above the entrance. Just two years later, with the empire dissolved, it was within these very walls that the German Republic was proclaimed.

In 1933, a fire engulfed the Reichstag-a blaze which the Nazi regime would exploit to issue the infamous decree, suspending civil liberties and consolidating authoritarian power. Thereafter, the building was no longer used for parliamentary functions during the Nazi era and instead served various other roles throughout the war.

The Second World War left the Reichstag in ruins. During the Cold War, the fractured remains of the building stood on the western side of a divided Berlin. Though no longer a seat of government, it occasionally hosted exhibitions, ceremonies, and even concerts during the 1980s.

Then, on the historic night of October 3rd, 1990, the Reichstag reclaimed its national significance. Within its restored chamber, the ceremony marking the official reunification of Germany was held-attended by Chancellor Helmut Kohl and numerous statesmen.

In the mid-1990s, the British architect Sir Norman Foster was commissioned to redesign the building. His intervention preserved historical scars-including Soviet graffiti etched in 1945-while introducing a strikingly modern glass dome. Completed in 1999, the dome serves as a powerful architectural metaphor for democratic transparency. Open to the public, it allows visitors to peer down into the debating chamber below, while its 360-degree panorama reveals the vast expanse of the capital. A sun-tracking shield ensures natural light floods the space without overwhelming glare.

Tip:
Plan your visit in advance, as security measures require booking and a valid ID for entry.
For those wishing to skip the queue, reserving a table at the Käfer DACHGARTEN restaurant provides expedited access.
Dress warmly-while the dome offers breathtaking views, its open windows invite Berlin’s brisk winds.

Perched proudly at the northern tip of Berlin’s Museum Island-like a swan striking a pose-the Bode Museum stands tall with its show-stopping double dome and regal columns, gracefully hugged on two sides by the Spree River. Sure, the outside is impressive enough, but step inside, and you’re in for a proper architectural flex: sweeping staircases, sky-high ceilings, and classical features creating the perfect backdrop for museum exploration.

Now, speaking of art-the Bode isn’t just pretty; it’s stacked. This place holds one of the largest sculpture collections on the planet. From early medieval marvels to late 18th-century elegance, you’ll find a European roll call of artistry. Among the standouts, check out glazed terracotta beauties from the Italian Renaissance and a few wooden wonders by 16th-century German sculptor Tilman Riemenschneider that absolutely steal the limelight. Seriously, a wooden sculpture has never looked this good.

But there’s more. If Byzantine art makes your heart flutter, prepare yourself: over 150 works spanning a whopping 12 centuries. Among them, the coin cabinet- a treasure trove of Byzantine coins and medals that would make any history buff giddy. Plus, there’s an entire section devoted to Orthodox Christian art from Greece, the Balkans, Russia, and even North Africa-iconic in every sense of the word.

Need a breather between cultural deep-dives? The museum café’s got your back, serving caffeine and cake with a side of Baroque glamour. And if you feel the urge to bring a bit of Bode home (because you might), there’s a cozy little gift shop tucked in the back with books, souvenirs, and more temptations than can push your luggage allowance to the limit.

Tip:
Bags get checked at the door, but your camera’s totally invited. Snap to your heart’s content.
And for the savvy museum-hopper, the 3-day Museum Pass is your golden ticket-it’s budget-friendly and lets you glide through the rest of Museum Island like a seasoned pro.

Despite what its lofty name suggests, the Berlin Cathedral is... not a cathedral. Yep, never was. Because Berlin never had a Catholic bishop in the house.

Now, rewind to 1451, when Prince-Elector Frederick II-nicknamed "Iron-tooth" because, well, medieval PR was wild-built a castle chapel right here. It started out Catholic, then switched to Lutheran in 1539, and just to keep things spicy, went Calvinist by 1608.

The version we see today is a Neo-Renaissance stunner, built between 1894 and 1905 by order of Emperor Wilhelm II, who basically wanted his very own Protestant answer to the Vatican’s Saint Peter’s Basilica. And what a power move it was: 114 meters long, 73 wide, and 116 tall-this place made everything else in Berlin look like dollhouse furniture.

And it wasn’t just for show, either. The Hohenzollerns-Germany’s royal family-worshipped here and even used the crypt as their final resting place. That lasted until 1918, when Wilhelm II peaced out to the Netherlands after abdicating the throne.

Then came World War II, and let’s just say the cathedral did not come out looking its best. East Germany did some repairs-thanks, GDR-but also tore down the Memorial Church in 1975, which wasn’t their finest hour.

Fast forward to 1993, and voilà: the place got a full glow-up. It now has the majestic pipe organ, pristine acoustics, priceless art, and vibes so divine they practically echo. Today, it’s home to choirs galore, including the English Choir Berlin, which hosts monthly Choral Evensong in true Anglican style.

If you're feeling brave, you can climb the dome! There’s a roomy stairwell, plenty of landings to catch your breath-and yes, actual chairs if you need a moment. At the bottom, history buffs rejoice: the crypt holds 94 royal sarcophagi. It's like Prussian Netflix, but... quieter.

Tip:
Snag the audio guide-it’s a small fee for a big info boost. Or grab a printed guide if you're old school. And in the summer, feel free to stretch out on the lawn across the street, near the fountain. It's the perfect picnic spot, and the cathedral makes a dramatic lunch backdrop.

The Berlin Television Tower was built by East Germany in the late 1960s. Inaugurated on October 3, 1969, it is the tallest structure in Germany and the third-tallest in the European Union.

Designated as a monument in 1979, the tower attracts around 1.2 million visitors annually and is one of Germany’s top tourist attractions. It has an observation deck at 203 meters and the rotating restaurant “Sphere” at 207 meters, offering panoramic views of the city, extending up to 40 kilometers (or 25 miles) on a clear day.

The tower’s height increased from 365 to 368 meters in 1997 after a new antenna was added, making it the fourth tallest free-standing structure in Europe, surpassed only by Moscow's Ostankino Tower and TV towers in Kiev and Riga. If you have a mild fear of heights, fear not-the elevator whisks you to the top in a mere 40 seconds. You can also opt for a more adventurous ascent via 985 steps.

Inside, enjoy the authentic Sputnik-era ambiance complete with period-appropriate decor and finishes. If you have specific dietary preferences, particularly as a vegetarian, it's advisable to peruse the restaurant menu on their website before making a reservation. The dining experience itself is quite lovely otherwise, comprising a starter, main course, and dessert, plus a glass of sparkling wine and two glasses of red or white wine, along with unlimited water. Moreover, the restaurant rotates slowly, affording you a comprehensive view of Berlin, making it an ideal setting for photography. A full rotation takes about half an hour, offering ample opportunity to capture the city from a bird's-eye perspective while sipping a coffee.

Presently dubbed "the toothpick" by locals, the tower previously earned the nickname “Pope’s Revenge” because sunlight reflecting off its dome forms a Greek cross, which some saw as a rebuke to East Germany’s anti-religious stance, and was mentioned by the former US president Ronald Reagan in his 1987 “Tear down this wall” speech. For the same reasons, it was also jokingly called "Saint Walter" after Walter Ulbricht, leader of the Socialist Unity Party which governed East Germany.

Originally a symbol of Communist power, the TV tower is now a unified Berlin landmark and a cultural and tourist icon, hosting events like the Festival of Lights.

Often referred to as 'Alex' by Berliners, the epicenter of the old East is inevitable to run across while exploring the city. Originally a cattle market in the Middle Ages, the square was named in honor of a visit by the Russian Emperor Alexander I in 1805. It evolved into a significant commercial hub in the 19th century and, alongside Potsdam Square, became the heart of Berlin's nightlife in the roaring 1920s.

Today, Alexanderplatz has a distinct atmosphere reminiscent of the 1960s and the heyday of East Germany (GDR), offering a unique opportunity to glimpse what high-rise flats looked like before the fall of the Berlin Wall. Notably, the largest demonstration against the GDR regime took place here in the autumn of 1989, with half a million citizens demanding freedom of speech and press freedom.

The large area around the iconic TV Tower is often teeming with tourists but also serves as a venue for interesting events; for instance, during the Christmas season, a significant portion is transformed into a Christmas village. The bustling train station is surrounded by shops, bars, and restaurants, providing plenty of options for visitors.

Don't miss the Fountain of Friendship between Peoples and the Neptune Fountain located past the TV tower; both offer great opportunities for photos. Another intriguing sight is the Weltzeituhr, a massive 16-ton clock built in 1969 that displays the times in 148 cities worldwide. This attraction perfectly complements Alexanderplatz's role as a central meeting point: no need for discussing the correct time when a friend arrives late.

Tip:
Before your visit, it's worthwhile to view pictures of how the square appeared in the early 20th century and during the Cold War era.

In just three months, this one-kilometer (approximately half-mile) expanse of concrete transformed from a heavily guarded border to an open-air art gallery. The momentous breach of the Berlin Wall by East Berliners on November 9, 1989, paved the way for a remarkable change. Between February and June of 1990, 118 artists from various corners of the world converged here to craft distinctive works of art along its longest remaining section.

Among the most iconic pieces is the creation by Russian artist Dmitri Vrubel, portraying the embrace of Brezhnev and Honecker, the former leader of East Germany, accompanied by the poignant caption, "My God. Help me survive this deadly love."

This extraordinary stretch of art lines the banks of the Spree Canal, spanning from the Warschauer Strasse S- and U-bahn station to Ostbahnhof. Adding to its charm, the scene is graced by the redbrick Oberbaumbrücke, a bridge dating back to 1896, located at Warschauer Street.

The Gendarmenmarkt is a square in one of the most beautiful parts of Berlin, showcasing the spectacular ensemble of three classical buildings: the so-called Fransözicher Dom (French Cathedral, named after the French Protestant community that sought refuge in Berlin from religious persecution in the late 17th century); the Deutsche Dom (German Cathedral, almost perfectly mirroring the first); and, in between, the Konzerthaus Berlin (Berlin Concert Hall).

Fabulously picturesque, the area looks much like part of the Imperial Capital and may even give Vienna a run for its money. A lovely fountain adorned with a monumental statue of Germany's renowned poet Friedrich Schiller graces the center of the square, often accompanied by musicians playing nearby. While many of the buildings in the area suffered extensive damage during World War II, they have since been meticulously restored, preserving numerous original elements.

Why You Should Visit:
There is quite a bit to take in, so you can wander around at your leisure. Luckily, there is no hard sell of tickets and touristy paraphernalia. While there are shops, bars and restaurants, they are discrete and upmarket, rather than tacky. A lovely place to sit and watch people for a while.

Tip:
Might be worth visiting at night when it's all lit up.

Immortalized by American movies and spy novels, Checkpoint Charlie is one of the most famous and historically significant spots in Berlin. A symbol of the Cold War, originally it was one of the three designated crossing points – A (Alpha), B (Bravo), and C (Charlie) – for foreigners and members of the Allied forces, established after the construction of the Berlin Wall. Here the documents of visitors and diplomats were checked by East Germans prior to issuing visas.

Checkpoint Charlie became a sole crossing point in 1962. A year earlier, it made history as the venue of a famous stand-off between US and Soviet tanks facing each other across the border, when an American diplomat was refused a visa. The stand-off nearly led to a war but fortunately ended peacefully.

Today, a replica of the original Checkpoint Charlie booth with a "You are now leaving the American Sector" sign serves largely as a photo opportunity in the middle of the street that once marked the border between East and West Berlin. Nearby is the Wall Museum-House dedicated to freedom, featuring, among other exhibits, a piece of the Berlin Wall and historical information relating to the many escape attempts made over the Wall throughout decades. There are also a number of panels and photos that give a useful summary and timeline. Not far away is the Topography of Terror exhibition which also deserves attention.

Lately, to keep the site from turning into a commercial circus, the German authorities have put the kibosh on actors donning military uniforms and cashing in on clueless tourists. Undoubtedly an interesting location, albeit the guard house and other elements are only replicas, Checkpoint Charlie is about an appreciation of how things once were in this great city.

Why You Should Visit:
Bit of a tourist trap, but a good part of the city's history. The surrounding area is also steeped in history and you can walk around the streets to see the Berlin Wall and try the great local cafes.

Tip:
Get here early to avoid crowds, as taking a photo can be quite tricky due to the hustle and bustle of traffic, etc.

It may feel somewhat touristy, but Curry 36 has been an initiation point for many first-time visitors to Berlin, introducing them to the currywurst culture that's so ingrained in the city's culinary identity. This reputation extends even to international celebrities like Tom Hanks, who ventured to explore what all the buzz was about. However, perhaps more tellingly, it's cherished by local taxi drivers who have a discerning taste for quality curry sausages. These night owls, among others, frequent Curry 36 to recharge during their late-night shifts, relishing each savory bite. So, whenever you fancy an authentic Berlin-made sausage, simply follow their lead!

Service is generally friendly, but the pace at the window can be brisk, so it's a good idea to have your order in mind while waiting in line (even with big queues, the wait time is reasonable). Surprisingly, it is actually possible to enjoy three currywurst variations at this chain: classic, organic (skinless and smoother), or even a completely vegan option. Given the unanimous verdict that all three are equally delicious, there's no excuse not to sample this Berlin classic.

Tip:
Embrace the local experience by ordering your sausage with a generous portion of crispy fries served "rot-weiss" style (with red curry ketchup and mayonnaise). If you're not a mayo enthusiast, be sure to specify your preference in advance!

An important public square and traffic hub at the heart of Berlin, Potsdam lies about 1 km (1,100 yd) to the south of the Brandenburg Gate and the Reichstag (Parliament Building), and close to Tiergarten Park. Over a little more than a century, it evolved from a rural crossroads into Europe's busiest traffic intersection; however, it was completely destroyed during WWII and remained desolate during the Cold War when the Berlin Wall divided its former site. Since German reunification, Potsdam has undergone significant redevelopment, becoming a vibrant hub for commerce, art collections, theaters, dining, festivals, social gatherings, and a remarkable range of architectural styles.

The square is notably dominated by the ultramodern Sony Centre, known for its three floors of technology and a tent-like roof inspired by Japan's Mount Fuji. Other attractions include the Panoramapunkt, offering one of Berlin's best aerial views; a replica of Europe's first semi-automated traffic light tower from 1924; the 'Boulevard des stars', Berlin's version of Hollywood's Walk of Fame; a small section of the Berlin Wall; amazing public art installations around Marlene Dietrich Platz and beyond; FACIL, a 2 Michelin-starred restaurant serving innovative cuisine; and numerous exciting events and festivals throughout the year, such as the Chinese New Year, Summer Movie Sessions, Festival of Lights, and one of Berlin's most popular Christmas Markets.

Tip:
Before visiting Potsdam Square, it's worthwhile to view photos of its post-WWII condition when it was mostly rubble, with only the traffic tower remaining after Allied bombings.

Tiergarten is often considered the jewel of Berlin, akin to Central Park in New York City. It's a beloved meeting place and a vital part of the community. Originally a royal hunting ground, it's now a place where joggers and cyclists frequent its paths to relax and escape city life. The park is enormous, so a full day is ideal for exploration, but even a few hours can be enjoyable, especially for an evening walk when the gaslit footpaths create a unique ambiance, particularly in early autumn.

In the park's eastern section, a Triumphal Avenue was constructed in the late 19th century, filled with statues of the country's rulers and statesmen; however, World War II caused significant damage, including the destruction of the Triumphal Avenue, with many surviving monuments now found in the Zitadelle Spandau. Today, the park's avenues are lined with statues of notable figures like Johann Wolfgang von Goethe and Richard Wagner.

Memorials to Karl Liebknecht and Rosa Luxemburg, leaders of the Spartacus movement, can be found near the lake known as Neuer See and the Landwehrkanal. Additionally, there's a collection of gas lamps on display near the Tiergarten S-Bahn station.

A magnificent testament to the imperial era, this palace once served as the city residence for Prussian rulers. In the 18th century, Frederick the Great made significant additions, including the dome and several rococo-style wings. By 1790, it had transformed into an expansive royal domain that could occupy an entire day of exploration.

The Altes Schloss, the central building of the palace complex, features the ground-floor suites of Friedrich I and Sophie-Charlotte and houses royal portraits by Antoine Pesne, a renowned 18th-century court painter. The upper floor contains the apartments of Friedrich Wilhelm IV, a silver treasury, and a collection of Berlin and Meissen porcelain, which can be visited separately.

The Neuer Flügel (New Building), once inhabited by Frederick the Great houses a ballroom known as the Golden Gallery and the Silver Vault, featuring exquisite tableware. Meanwhile, the palace gardens include a mausoleum and the Belvedere tea house, which hosts a porcelain collection.

Why You Should Visit:
To explore a vast selection of 18th-century French paintings and witness a superb example of Baroque architecture. The palace, while a bit worn, provides an authentic glimpse into the opulence of the era.

Tips:
Consider using guided tour headphones, as they provide insights into the purpose of each palace room and the unique furnishings (English audio is available). If you plan to take pictures inside, inform the ticket desk and be prepared for an additional fee. Lastly, save some time to wander the gardens, especially enjoyable on a sunny day.