The Ultimate Guide to a Short Stay in Berlin: Best Things to See & Do

Berlin, Germany is a city that’s rich in history, culture, and energy. Since I am 25% German, I was pretty excited to visit, but I only had two days to spend there during a three-week trip across Europe. Knowing I had to be as efficient as possible, I worked hard to fit as much of the city’s history and culture in as I could. Whether you’re there for an extended stay or just a couple of days like I was, this guide will help you make the most of your time in Germany’s capital!

Where to Stay in Berlin

During my visit, I stayed at the Riu Plaza Berlin, a comfortable and upscale hotel with heated bathroom floors (a definite perk!). However, it was a bit of a trek from some of the main attractions, so if you want to be closer to the action, consider staying in Mitte, the heart of Berlin. Some top-rated hotels in prime locations include:

• Hotel Adlon Kempinski – A luxurious, historic hotel right next to Brandenburg Gate.
• The Circus Hotel – A stylish boutique hotel in Mitte with an affordable price tag.
• Motel One Berlin-Hackescher Markt – A budget-friendly, modern hotel with a fantastic location.

Getting Around Berlin

Public transportation in Berlin is affordable and easy to use, so wherever you stay, getting around won’t be a problem. The U-Bahn (underground metro) and S-Bahn (elevated and suburban trains) cover all major districts, with trams and buses filling in the gaps. A Berlin WelcomeCard offers unlimited travel for a set number of days and includes discounts on various attractions. Most stations and stops have clear signage in both German and English, making it easy for visitors to get around. Trains run frequently, and Google Maps can help plan routes efficiently. Whether you’re heading to Museum Island, the Berlin Wall, or a biergarten, public transit makes exploring the city easy!

The Best Time to Visit

Berlin is a fantastic city to visit year-round, but each season offers something different:

• Spring (March–May): Mild temperatures, blooming parks, and fewer crowds.
• Summer (June–August): The best time for festivals and outside dining. I visited in summer and accidentally stumbled upon the Berlin Lacht Festival in Alexanderplatz—a lively event featuring street performers, musicians, and food vendors.
• Fall (September–November): Beautiful autumn colors and events like Berlin Art Week and smaller, less crowder Okoberfest celebrations than you’ll find in Munich.
• Winter (December–February): Cold but magical, especially with the famous Christmas markets and festive lights.

How to Maximize Your Sightseeing Time in Berlin

With limited time in Berlin, efficiency is key. One of the best ways to cover the must-see attractions quickly is by joining a bike tour. I booked a Fat Tire Bike Tour through Viator, which was an incredible way to experience the city. We met at Alexanderplatz, picked out our bikes (mine was called the ‘Colonial Viper’), and spent the day cycling through Berlin’s historic and cultural landmarks. The tour lasted about half of the day and included a stop for lunch at a biergarten in Berlin’s largest and oldest park. Not only was the tour informative but also an entertaining way to navigate the city while learning about its past.

Whether by bike tour or on your own, make sure to hit these major spots:

Brandenburg Gate

One of Germany’s most iconic monuments and a symbol of unity. Built in the late 18th century, this neoclassical landmark once stood as a divide between East and West Berlin during the Cold War. Today, it represents Germany’s reunification and is a must-visit for its historical significance and impressive architecture.

Checkpoint Charlie

One of the most well-known border crossings between East and West Berlin during the Cold War, Checkpoint Charlie was a symbol of the divided city. Today, the site features a replica of the original checkpoint booth, along with informative displays about Berlin’s Cold War history. While the checkpoint itself is a touristy spot, its historical significance makes it a must-visit.

Bebelplatz

This historic square is the site of the infamous Nazi book burning that took place on May 10, 1933, when over 20,000 books deemed “un-German” were destroyed. Today, a powerful underground memorial known as the “Empty Library” marks the site. Designed by artist Micha Ullman, the memorial consists of a glass panel in the ground revealing empty white bookshelves below—symbolizing the loss of knowledge and culture. A nearby plaque features a haunting quote by Heinrich Heine: “This was only a prelude; where they burn books, they will, in the end, burn people.”

The Memorial to the Murdered Jews of Europe

A powerful Holocaust memorial. This striking and solemn memorial consists of 2,711 concrete slabs of varying heights, arranged in a grid-like pattern. Walking through the towering stone pillars creates a haunting, immersive experience meant to evoke feelings of loss and reflection. It stands as a tribute to the six million Jewish victims of the Holocaust. Beneath the memorial, a small underground museum provides historical context.

Museum Island

A UNESCO World Heritage site, this island in the middle of the Spree River is home to multiple world-class museums, each offering a glimpse into art, history, and archeology. Even if you don’t have time to visit the museums, the island itself is worth exploring for its beautiful architecture and scenic river views.

Berlin Wall & East Side Gallery

Once a stark symbol of division during the Cold War, only a few sections of the Berlin Wall remain standing today. The East Side Gallery is the most famous, stretching nearly a mile along the Spree River. This open-air gallery features murals by artists from around the world, transforming the remnants of the Wall into a powerful display of freedom, unity, and political expression. Some of the most well-known pieces, like The Fraternal Kiss, make it a must-visit for history and art lovers alike.

Eating & Drinking in Berlin

Berlin’s food scene is diverse, offering everything from traditional German dishes to international flavors. Here are some must-try food & drink experiences:

Biergartens

A trip to Germany isn’t complete without visiting a beer garden. Our bike tour stopped at one in Tiergarten, Berlin’s largest park, where I enjoyed authentic schnitzel. The atmosphere was relaxed, with locals and tourists alike enjoying hearty meals under shady trees. Later, we cooled off with a beer and a Bavarian pretzel at a biergarten on the Spree River, offering a scenic view of the water and a lively ambiance.

The Spree River runs for about 400 kilometers (250 miles) through Germany and the Czech Republic, with around 46 kilometers (29 miles) flowing through Berlin. It has played a crucial role in the city’s history, serving as a trade route in medieval times and later forming part of the Berlin Wall’s boundary during the Cold War.

Currywurst

A must-try Berlin specialty! I first had it at the Berlin Lacht Festival, and it was delicious. This beloved street food consists of sliced sausage smothered in a tangy curry ketchup sauce, often served with crispy fries. You’ll find currywurst stands all over the city, making it an easy and tasty snack while exploring.

Berlin Lacht Festival

“Berlin Lacht” translates to “Berlin Laughs,” and the festival has been bringing joy to Alexanderplatz since 2004. It features international street performers, from acrobats to clowns, transforming the square into an open-air stage of creativity and laughter.

Bratwurst

Before leaving the city, I grabbed a classic bratwurst from a street vendor near the Berlin Wall—simple but so good! The flavorful sausage was served in a crispy roll, making for a quick and satisfying meal. Whether from a street cart or a traditional German restaurant, bratwurst is a must for any visitor.

Final Thoughts

Berlin is a city that blends history, culture, and modern vibrancy, making it a must-visit European destination. Whether you’re there for two days or a full week, I hope this post helps you to plan your trip and experience the best of what Berlin has to offer!

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