A city that has changed and grown more in a few decades than most places do in centuries, the German capital has become synonymous with the hip and innovative, while still maintaining plenty of its classic touches.
And while you’ll never run out of things to do in Berlin, there are some spots that simply can’t be missed, capturing the essence of this complicated town as it’s grown and shifted.
So bring a camera and your sense of curiosity, as we peruse the best tourist attractions in Berlin!
1 – Berlin Cathedral
A grand tribute to tradition, the Berlin Cathedral is a place where spirituality, music, and architecture blend with ease.
Since 1454, the ornate church has towered over the city, providing a home for worshippers of all stripes – and an irresistible destination for walking tours in Berlin.
And don’t miss the organ recitals, where you can hear the traditional instruments in their full, booming glory!
2 – Berlin Wall
As one of the city’s most powerful historic symbols, the Berlin Wall casts a large shadow over German culture, decades after its dismantling.
There are still many great spots around town where you can see remnants of the once-ubiquitous structure, and learn about the tragic divide it fostered.
The East Side Gallery is particularly enlightening; as the longest section of the wall still intact, it has been repurposed into a massive outdoor art project, with vivid murals completely covering the once-imposing facade.
3 – Reichstag
As the main house of Parliament, Reichstag is the perfect place to delve into the city’s complex political world… and it’s quite pretty to boot!
The magnificent building first opened in 1894, just in time to bear witness to some of the country’s most turbulent eras.
Through successive empires and world wars, it was the place where ideas were formed and put into practice; and even when it was in disrepair, it still served as something of a civic symbol.
Explore the inside and learn about the many policies that were born here, then head up to the massive observation dome for sweeping views of the city that was shaped by these moments.
See also: Reichstag Dome Tickets & Tours – Everything you Should Know
4 – Memorial to the Murdered Jews of Europe
It may be one of the most sobering spots in the city, but the Memorial to the Murdered Jews of Europe is also one of the best tourist attractions in Berlin – and a critically important one.
The vast field of cement markers pays tribute to the more than 6 million Jewish people that were murdered during the Holocaust, and as you walk between their tomb-like forms, you’ll get a sense of the scale of the tragedy.
Be sure to stop by the Information Center before you leave to dive deeper into the scope and scale of the tragedy – at once massive and deeply individualized.
5 – Kaiser Wilhelm Memorial Church
Named for one of Germany’s most prominent rulers, Kaiser Wilhelm Memorial Church mixes the old and new as only Berlin can.
Originally built in 1891 and overhauled in 1959, the gorgeous building is most famous for its mosaics and war memorial, which add some more modern context to this old space.
Be sure to check the calendar before visiting, because they also offer some unique versions of standard religious services, from choral performances and retrospectives on the Reformation to sermons accompanied by lively jazz music.
6 – Sachsenhausen Concentration Camp
Another somber but compelling spot, Sachsenhausen Concentration Camp was one of the closest sites to the city and has the dubious distinction of being the earliest facility of its kind in Nazi Germany.
It was originally opened in 1936, and over 200,000 victims perished there before the liberation of 1945.
Walking through the actual offices and yards where the atrocities took place, you’ll get a real sense of the human suffering that occurred here, as well as the efforts to stop it.
7 – Aquadom & Sea Life
The halls of Aquadom & Sea Life are bursting with enough color and beauty to fill any gallery; but this time, the wonders are natural!
From tiny seahorses and rainbow-hued corals to majestic stingrays and sharks weaving their way through the water, the thousands of creatures here will give you a chance to peer into the depths of rivers and oceans… no snorkel required!
8 – Museum Island
Nerds of all stripes can rejoice over the hottest destination in town…. Museum Island!
Tucked in the midst of the Spree River, houses some pretty amazing institutions covering a whole spectrum of cultures and visual delights.
There’s the Pergamon Museum for fans of ancient Middle Eastern artifacts, or the Neues Museum for a peek into Ancient Egypt.
Check out the art of various empires at the Bode Museum, or the seemingly endless canvases of Alte Nationalgalerie.
And don’t forget about Altes Museum, which houses a treasure trove of artifacts from ancient coins to stunning portraits of world rulers.
It’s a never-ending feast for the eyes and the mind!
9 – Panoramapunkt
25 stories in the air, Panoramapunkt provides some splendid views of the city – and getting there is half the fun!
After all, it isn’t every day that you can zip to your viewing spot in Europe’s fastest elevator; and as you whizz to the top, the skyline will rush past you in a dizzying, thrilling fashion!
Then take in the “Views of Berlin” exhibition, which offers up plenty of stories about the wonders perfectly laid out below you.
10 – Botanical Garden and Botanical Museum
Peruse the plants, enjoy some downtime, or get some aesthetic inspiration… your options are endless at the Botanical Garden and Botanical Museum!
This tranquil space is packed with all manner of species, from mosses and herbs to medicinal cuttings, fragrant flowers, and swampy specimens.
And along with all of the vibrant living things, you can also stop into the museum section to learn about how these different strains of flora have been used over the years by local humans.
Take in all of the awesome plants and their many uses, or just enjoy the beautiful visuals!
11 – Jewish Museum
Paying homage to the long and complex history of one of the region’s most prominent cultures, the Jewish Museum covers a story full of triumphs and tragedies.
As the largest space of its kind on the continent, the museum focuses on Jewish art, history, and culture in Germany, from the creative movements of the early 1900s to the Holocaust to the many influences in the present day.
Even the shape of the building is part of the narrative; the zagging shapes of the main structure were designed to represent the complicated connection between Jewish and German cultures.
It’s a moving and comprehensive look into the people and their history.
12 – Hackescher Markt
By day this bustling square is filled with foot traffic and the steady beep of various vehicles. FIX
By night, it thrums with an energy of a different sort, the soundtrack shifting to endless music and revelry from the many clubs and bars.
On Thursdays and Saturdays, you can even enjoy the enticing produce and wares at the bustling pop-up markets.
But no matter when you go, you’ll surely feel energized just by being near this dynamic neighborhood!
13 – World Balloon
If you want a slightly more whimsical sightseeing option, then hop in a basket and set your sights on the skies with some of the memorable hot air balloon rides in Berlin!
After rising into the air, you’ll have amazing views of the town in all of its multifaceted glory, and get to enjoy the delight of the vessel itself as it bobs through the sky.
There’s a little bit of whimsy and a whole lot of beauty on display here!
14 – Hop on Hop off Bus Tours
Taking care of transit, tourism, and adventure all in one go, the hop on hop off bus tours in Berlin is an utterly enticing adventure!
The premise is pretty simple; you “hop on” wherever is most convenient, and enjoy a guided excursion through the city and its finest sights; then “hop off” at any spots that catch your eye, and spend some time exploring until the next bus arrives.
It’s an adventure on your own terms!
15 – Markthalle Neun
Every Friday and Saturday, the Kreuzberg neighborhood springs to life with food, vendors, and all the finest elements of the farm in the big city.
It must be Markthalle Neun day!
From bread and meats to fresh fish, cheeses, veggies, and coffee, you can get a whole meal here and then some; and of course, the lively atmosphere is half the fun!
Best of all, there are similarly scrumptious offerings throughout the week; Street Food Thursday is a particularly great opportunity to try a whole smorgasbord of new flavors!
16 – Alexanderplatz
As one of the most popular neighborhoods in the entire city, this massive public venue is home to many of the most iconic landmarks, including the TV Tower (see #17) and the Kaufhof department store, plus a massive assortment of malls and shopping areas.
It also boasts a fascinating history; originally built in the 1600s, the area has long been known as a hub for passing royalty, including Tsar Alexander I, the Russian czar for whom the space was named.
Like so many other parts of town, it became somewhat stagnant during the Cold War years, before getting revived and reenergized into a dynamic hub of city life.
Take some time to people-watch and wander around, and soak up the local vibes!
17 – TV Tower
Shooting up above the skyline at an imposing 368 meters (1,207 feet) high, the TV Tower is hard to miss; and while it would work merely as a visual gem, it’s another place that also serves a powerful cultural purpose.
The gorgeous vistas at the top offer a breathtaking perspective on the city; and the tower itself is equally impressive, with its long history as a communications hub prior to becoming one of the best tourist attractions in Berlin.
Zip up and look around, then grab a cocktail at Bar 203 or grab a meal at the gently rotating Sphere Restaurant, and continue to enjoy some superb scenery!
See also: Berlin TV Tower Tickets Price – Everything you Should Know
18 – Kreuzberg
Showing off some of the cooler, quirkier sides of the city, Kreuzberg is a neighborhood practically made to be explored at length… and there are rewards around every corner!
This is a wonderful place to absorb the multicultural aspects of the town, as well as its endless succession of monuments and historic buildings that bring the old and the new into sharper focus.
Enjoy some eye-popping public art, take in a hip-hop performance, or take side trips to Turkey and the Caribbean as you stroll through some of the capital’s most diverse areas.
There are few parts of town more magical and enticing!
19 – Sightseeing Cruise
This is certainly a place where the waterways are as impressive as the walking paths; and when you embark on a sightseeing cruise, you’ll get to experience a whole new angle of the capital!
Putter along in style down the River Spree and admire the beautiful architecture and cultural attributes, including the Berlin Cathedral (see #1), Museum Island (see #8), and more.
Sit back and enjoy the beautiful views and cool facts to match!
20 – Trabi Safari
Sometimes, sightseeing is made even better by the vehicle you use, and that’s certainly the case with Trabi Safari!
Hop into the adorably tiny cars that were once common throughout Communist Germany, and roll through town in style and on your own terms, admiring all the landmarks along the way.
The peculiar size makes it easy to traverse the winding city streets, bustling public squares, and crowded areas with ease; and as exciting as the views are, learning to handle one of these quirky machines is half the fun!
21 – Gardens of the World (Gärten der Welt)
From the moment you enter the charming tram cars that will take you to Gardens of the World, you’ll be drawn into another world – one filled with greenery and endless delights!
You’ll find beautiful realms patterned after some of the world’s best green spaces, from the careful constructions of China to the magnificent designs of the artisan gardens, which are patterned after some of the most innovative techniques from around the globe.
Come for the gorgeous decor, stay for the fascinating cultural accents!
22 – Friedrichstadt-Palast
Friedrichstadt-Palast has long been known for its incredible lineup of shows, but there’s one production in particular that puts this theater over the top!
Epic and inspiring, ARISE Grand Show puts on a display that’s nothing short of epic, with hundreds of musicians, dancers, and other performers bringing the space to life and showing off their talents.
Enjoy a show with Broadway-level scale… and pure German-style adventure!
23 – Neue Nationalgalerie
A true temple to design and its attributes, Neue Nationalgalerie presents some of the most amazing artworks of the 20th century in fine form.
Take in the splendor of pieces by Lotte Laserstein, Otto Dix, and Ernest Ludwig Kirchner, and absorb the amazing history of German art through various wars and innovative movements.
You’ll get the history, the creativity, and the beauty, all in one go!
24 – Natural History Museum (Museum für Naturkunde)
Time to travel a little further back, and hang out with some dinosaurs!
Journey millions of years into the past and back again, as you explore the rocks, creatures, and minerals that have shaped the very foundations of the planet.
Exciting, interactive, and deeply informative, the Natural History Museum will have you feeling like you’ve stepped into a time machine!
25 – Madame Tussauds
Rub elbows with movie stars, monarchs, and sports stars… all in one afternoon!
At Madame Tussauds, you’ll get the delightful opportunity to hang out with some of the world’s most famous figures in impressively lifelike form; and just because they’re made of wax doesn’t make them any less impressive!
Tour the various galleries and enjoy some quality photo ops with your favorites… it’s a pretty lovely souvenir!
26 – Illuseum Berlin
Vacations are all about getting out of your comfort zone… and at Illuseum Berlin, you can transcend the normal bounds of reality!
While you’re here, you might end up hovering in mid-air, roaming through vortexes, or changing your size, all thanks to the power of illusions.
Take some time to slip into this bizarre alternate universe – you’ll have a heck of a time!
27 – DDR Museum
Commemorating the full intensity of the Communist era, the DDR Museum provides an interactive glimpse into daily life in these challenging times.
Test-drive one of the unusual cars of the era, explore authentic apartment recreations and delve into the many nuances of daily life in these challenging times.
You may even get interrogated by the secret police – but don’t worry, these ones are just actors!
It may not be a world you’d want to linger in, but it’s well worth visiting.
28 – Charlottenburg Palace
Buckle up for a different type of time travel – one that will fling you back to some of the city’s most ornate days!
Step into Charlottenburg Palace, and you’ll find yourself swept up into a classical era full of music, elegance, and charm…. complete with some amazing concerts!
Enjoy soothing orchestral sounds, and explore the lavish realms of what was once one of the region’s most popular castles.
From gorgeous galleries to massive halls that hosted all manner of revelry, this Rococo wonder will surely thrill you!
29 – Legoland
A playground, a factory, a theme park built on innovation…. Is there any better family-friendly adventure than a trip to Legoland Berlin? We think not!
There are more than five million unique bricks utilized in the play areas and plenty of other super-imaginative spaces.
From the high-octane Ninjago section to the immersive 4D movies and the awesome factory where you can craft your own works, every section of this park celebrates different elements of the famous block and its uses…. and all of these areas promote a spirit of fun!
30 – Brandenburg Gate
As one of the most famous visual gems in the city, Brandenburg Gate practically begs to be explored at length…. and admired!
It appeared on the scene in 1791 and has served as a symbol of imperial power ever since, as well as a remarkable visual icon known the world over.
Take plenty of time to admire the soaring pillars and commanding statues at the top, which form an unforgettable image that has maintained its power through all manner of social change.
As you pass through it, you can almost feel previous generations moving alongside you!
31 – Urban Nation
The contemporary side of the city’s thriving creative scene finds a suitable home in Urban Nation, which showcases some of the more unique art forms that thrive in the city.
From graffiti to massive murals, every piece is bursting with cool designs and lively aesthetics, bringing you into contact with a totally different part of the culture.
It’s a side of the capital that’s loud, proud, and maybe a little gritty; but that’s a large part of the appeal!
32 – Spy Museum
Rooms full of lasers, secret codes, quirky gadgets, and mysterious missions… this isn’t your average day out on the town!
As soon as you enter the Spy Museum, you’ll be swept into a world of multi-century intrigue, exploring all of the different ways in which various societies have utilized their own secret agents.
Then it’s time to try out your own skills, as you hack websites and navigate obstacles like a proper James or Jane Bond!
33 – Berlin Zoo
Follow the sound of roars, grunts, chirps, and squeaks, and you’ll find yourself in the middle of the wild, wonderful Berlin Zoo!
Parrots and penguins, seals and giraffes, hippos and jaguars – plus the only panda in Germany – are just some of the motley crew that you’ll meet here.
And with tons of keeper talks and unique animal encounters, you can get closer to the action than ever before!
34 – Hamburger Bahnhof
Back on the artsy side of things, you can admire the joys of Hamburger Bahnhof, and enjoy samples of some of the most acclaimed creators of the 20th century.
Works by Joseph Beuys, Andy Warhol, and Gerhard Merz all await you, with a style and flair all their own.
It’s a sophisticated and intriguing outing into works that still maintain their ingenuity and power to this very day!
35 – Berlin Story Bunker
Step into the Berlin Story Bunker, and descend into a past filled with tragedy… and hope! NOPE
In each exhibit, you’ll learn how the dynamic, liberal city of Berlin became the center of the brutal Nazi regime – and how it rebounded better than ever in the modern day.
And it’s all housed in an authentic World War II bunker, adding an extra level of power to the narrative.
36 – Gendarmenmarkt
In the 1600s, this bustling square first blossomed to life as a hub for the French immigrant population; but nowadays, it’s an authentically German spot!
Home to the spectacular Konzerthaus and the German and French Cathedrals, it’s a mecca for classic architecture; and with its wonderful spots to eat and drink, it has plenty of modern delights to offer as well!
37 – Kunstgewerbemuseum
Unique design movements are something of a specialty in Europe, and at Kunstgewerbemuseum, you’ll get to see just how broad the spectrum is!
From fashionable clothing to Art Deco building accents, there’s a seemingly endless parade of artifacts and exhibits to admire, and each of them provides a different perspective on the decorative elements that spice up our daily lives.
38 – Berlin Dungeon
Part historical tour, part haunted house, Berlin Dungeon provides a wonderfully macabre perspective on the capital.
Wander through centuries of history, coming face to face with murderers, revolutionaries, and plague doctors… and maybe even a ghost or two!
Actors, special effects, and world-class storytelling come together to create one dungeon you’ll never forget!
39 – Selfie Museum
And while we’re on the subject of great photo ops….
Taking the modern trend to new levels, the Selfie Museum is packed with fun settings that encourage imaginative shots.
Whether you want a glamorous photoshoot in a fake airplane or some fun-filled antics in rooms full of balloons and amazing light displays, this is one of the best places to visit in Berlin for a bit of photographic magic!
40 – Tempelhofer Feld
Chattering birds, sporting pitches, and walking paths filled with information and beautiful views…. there’s anything and everything at Tempelhofer Feld!
At an astounding 355 hectares (877 acres), it’s the city’s largest natural space, creating a wonderful world full of entertainment and wonderfully preserved landscapes in equal measure.
Try some new games, enjoy a picnic in the grass, then discover the many beautiful natural aspects of the space, from skylark nesting sites to flocks of sheep grazing in the fields!
41 – TimeRide Berlin
There’s no shortage of historic spots in the city… but how often do you get to fully immerse yourself in the bygone world, alive and well?
Well, put on one of the headsets at TimeRide Berlin, and you can do just that!
Cross from one side of the Berlin Wall to the other and back again, hearing personal accounts and seeing the stark differences in lifestyles on either side of the Iron Curtain.
While the actual locations are amazing to see, there’s something particularly moving about experiencing the effect of Communist Germany in a real – or almost real – way!
42 – Deutsches Historisches Museum
When you’re ready to get the biggest and best view of the country’s past, pop over to the Deutsches Historisches Museum, and prepare for an amazing journey to the past and back!
With more than a million different items here, you’ll get a dizzying display of Germany’s amazing evolution, rife with different cultures, ideas, and artistic movements.
Learn about wars and design ideas, the growth of cities, and the thrilling exploits of medieval knights, and see all kinds of delightful oddities along the way; seriously, when’s the last time you got to stand next to Napoleon’s hat?
43 – Berlin Underworld
Any city of this magnitude has to have great, often unseen systems powering it – and in this case, you can visit!
Take a thrilling adventure below the streets in the intriguing maze of Berlin Underworld, where you’ll get to discover the many structures that have helped the town function over the years, from bomb shelters to utility lines.
You’ll be stunned at how much is going on right beneath your feet!
44 – Checkpoint Charlie
For decades, Checkpoint Charlie served as one of the most intense transition zones in the world, marking the border between East and West Germany.
And it’s still standing today, complete with a museum filled with authentic objects from this strange era.
Quirky Soviet vehicles, household items, and reams of official documents show exactly how different these worlds were; and of course, you can recreate the once-perilous crossing for yourself.
It’s little wonder that this destination is prominently featured among the best Berlin tours!
45 – Beer tasting
It’s not a proper trip to Germany without a hearty brew, and the beer tastings in Berlin will certainly make it easier than ever to sample the finest suds!
Hop between massive breweries and charming little venues, and discover the amazing stories behind the lovingly crafted beverages.
It’s a fun-filled (and delicious) excursion!
46 – Classic Remise Berlin
Grab your best driving gloves and head to Classic Remise Berlin, where the cars are wonderful retro… and always a sight to behold!
But this is no mere museum; it’s a working restoration and sale area, where you can see some of the coolest classic vehicles around in all of their sparkling glory.
And if you want a particularly charming keepsake from your trip, you can even swing by one of the shops and pick up a scale model of one of the many gorgeous cars!
47 – Berlin-Hohenschönhausen Memorial
Walking under the shadow of sharp fences and looming buildings, you’ll feel the true power of the Berlin-Hohenschönhausen Memorial in its prime; as the main political prison in East Germany, it was a place where thousands of victims suffered away the years, awaiting justice.
While the site itself is fascinating, it’s also well worth exploring the exhibits scattered around, as they add extra analysis and context to the brutal government and the equally harsh imprisonment process.
48 – Prenzlauer Berg
From pastoral, windmill-filled fields to trendy shops and clubs…. Prenzlauer Berg has certainly undergone some changes!
And this quirky legacy – combined with some amazing post-Modernist landmarks and former factories repurposed into hip new spots – make it an utterly appealing area to stroll around!
Discover unique buildings and venues, and enjoy the energy that emanates from every doorway!
49 – Sony Center
This may technically be an office space, but trust us… it’s more than your average corporate hangout!
In fact, the Sony Center is one of the best tourist attractions in Berlin, blending amazing cuisine, lively shops, and thriving social areas into one stylish spot… oh, and they even managed to throw some offices in there!
Stop by to enjoy the views and a bite or two at some of the city’s best restaurants!
50 – Kurfürstendamm Street
When you’re ready to get into some serious retail therapy, this is the spot to go!
Amble up and down the stately 3.5-kilometer (2.2-mile) thoroughfare, taking in all of the different stores available to you: galleries, clothing shops, and stylish boutiques of every shape and size.
And if you need a little buying break, you can just admire the amazing sculptures and historic buildings that line this beautiful boulevard.
51 – Berliner Philharmonie
You can find a lush, wonderfully upscale soundtrack for all of your adventures with a trip to Berliner Philharmonie, which has been the city’s premier classical music spot since 1882.
Whether you’re listening to individual chamber music ensembles or the full power of the orchestra, you’ll be treated to some of the best tunes in town, in a setting that’s equally stunning.
52 – Mall of Berlin
Time for new shoes, nice watches, fun fashions, and dining spots from all over the world; just part of a regular day at the Mall of Berlin!
The diverse lineup of shops in this massive venue will keep everyone happy and busy, especially after grabbing a good meal afterward.
As both a deeply German and proudly global spot, it’s well worth exploring!
53 – Topography of Terror
Rarely has bureaucracy been so chilling as during the Nazi era, when meticulous paperwork helped run the horrendous genocidal regime.
And Topography of Terror captures this element in perfect detail, making it one of the best tourist attractions in Berlin for understanding the effect of the empire.
Make your way through the former offices and police stations that were used to enforce the brutal Holocaust, and see how the plans were executed; it’s a truly powerful experience!
54 – KaDeWe – Kaufhaus des Westens
With its gorgeous building and abundance of fine garments, KaDeWe is more than your average department store!
More than 60,000 square meters of excellence await you, from fine fragrances and chic accessories to outfits that will make shoppers of every age feel phenomenal.
Stop by and break out your wallet… this is well worth it!
55 – Computer Games Museum
Whether you’re a digital fanatic or more of a casual clicker, you’ll find some fascinating and nostalgic treasures at the Computer Games Museum!
Exploring the earliest origins of a relatively new medium, this serves as both an archive and an arcade, offering the chance to play iconic games like Space Invaders and Pong.
You can even see the first specimen ever made, which got its start in this very city!
56 – Humboldt Forum
Taking the academic mentality out of the classroom and into the public sphere, Humboldt Forum welcomes the curious and intellectually adventurous with its ambitious programming.
While there are some traditional museum collections here – covering arenas as diverse as ethnographies, art history, and the humanities -, the big focus is on dialogue and public engagement, with public talks, research presentations, and special tours providing insight into all manner of disciplines.
Dive into this world of exciting intellectual endeavors… you’ll be amazed at how much you’ll learn!
Visiting Berlin on a budget?
The best parts of the city – complete with unique local insights – can be yours, as soon as you lace up your shoes!
The free walking tours in Berlin will take you through some of the most unique and intriguing neighborhoods, showing off how this iconic metropolis functions on a day-to-day level.
And if you want to know where to start, take a look at some of the best free walking tours in Berlin!
You can also broaden your horizons without shrinking your funds courtesy of the Berlin WelcomeCard, which lets you mix and match some of the coolest attractions in town into one combo pass that’s both convenient and affordable.
You’ll also get some great discounts on tours, restaurants, and transit, making your holiday easier than ever!
Final thoughts
Filled with the vitality of a long-running, perpetually reinventing town, this German gem is tailor-made for travelers!
And while you’re absorbing all the emotions that the best tourist attractions in Berlin can stir up – from the poignant to the joyful and everything in between -, you’ll almost certainly be overcome with wonder.
After all, how could a place like this not capture your heart?