How to Spend 3 Days in Berlin - A Local’s Guide
3 days in Berlin is just about perfect for most first-time visitors. But with more than 3 million inhabitants, Berlin is a big city (the biggest in the European Union), and there’s tons to see and do here, so it's important that you plan your trip carefully to make sure you get the most out of your time.
Berlin is a fascinating, vibrant, and international city, and you could easily spend a week (or more) here. Personally, I first came to Berlin 21 years ago to participate in an international conference, and I fell so completely in love with the city that I never left. So just keep in mind that something similar could happen to you!
This is a bit of a cliche, but it really is true that Berlin has something for everyone. The city is incredibly rich in history, culture, and art, and it boasts many world renowned museums, fantastic art galleries, and important historical sites. It’s also one of Europe’s premier party cities, and in the last few years has become a great foodie destination.
With all this in mind, below is my guide to the perfect 3 days in Berlin with a day trip if you find yourself with 4 days.
More Germany travel info:
If you’re planning to visit more of Germany beyond Berlin, check out my 10-day Germany itinerary and this guide to Germany’s 15 prettiest towns.
If you could use some one-on-one help planning your Germany trip, schedule a Germany travel consultation with me!
Table of Contents
Day 1: Exploring the main historical sights and city center
Day 2: The museums of Museum Island, street art, galleries, and exploring in Kreuzberg
Day 3: Relax in Tiergarten park, shopping in Ku’damm, an evening in Prenzlauer Berg
Bonus 4th day: Day trip to Potsdamn or Sachsenhausen Concentration Camp Memorial
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Day 1: Explore the Historical Sights
Morning
Start your first day in Berlin by exploring the city's historical sights.
As a local guide, I think the best way to introduce yourself to Berlin and really begin to understand the German capital is with a private guided tour.
You can definitely see the sights on your own (and I’ve provided detailed instructions for a self-guided day below), but starting your sightseeing off with a guide will mean that you gain a far deeper understanding of Berlin, its history, architecture, people, and culture.
A typical introductory tour is designed to orient you in the city, taking in all the main sites while covering tons of information along the way.
The Old Royal Quarter
Showcasing the best of Berlin, any good introductory tour of the city will start off in the old royal quarter, which is packed with sights.
During a guided visit here, you’ll discover the beautiful buildings on Museum Island, Unter den Linden, Bebelplatz, Gendarmenmarkt, Checkpoint Charlie and the Wall, the old Nazi government district through to the Jewish memorial, Brandenburg Gate, and the new Chancellery and the Reichstag building.
Along the way you’ll hear about everything from the old Prussian days to the Kaisers, the rise of National Socialism and it’s still visible consequences, the division of the city during the Cold War, through to reunification and the rebirth of contemporary Germany.
Here’s how I’d recommend structuring your first day of sightseeing, whether you go with a guide or on your own:
Berlin Wall Memorial
Start your tour of Berlin a bit to the north of the city center, at the Berlin Wall Memorial, which is the ideal place to begin discovering and understanding Berlin. The memorial includes a preserved section of the Berlin Wall, as well as an outdoor exhibition that documents the history of the wall and its impact on the city. This is the ideal place to learn about the division of Berlin during the Cold War.
Brandenburg Gate
From there, what could be more appropriate then making your way south to the Brandenburg Gate, which is one of Berlin’s most recognizable landmarks and the symbol of the reunified Germany.
It’s a magnificent structure and it’s also right in the center of the city and super close to all the other sights that I thin you should check out today.
Holocaust Memorial
A few minutes’ walk away is the Holocaust Memorial, which is a sobering reminder of the atrocities committed during World War II. The memorial consists of 2,711 concrete slabs of varying heights and is a powerful tribute to the victims of the Holocaust.
For a deeper dive into Germany’s incredibly dark history during this time, the Jewish Museum Berlin is not too far away.
Potsdamer Platz
Continue on to Potsdamer Platz, which was the busiest thoroughfare in Europe prior to being destroyed during World War 2. It was left in ruins during the Cold War, with the Berlin Wall bisecting it, and was only redeveloped following German reunification.
Since then, it’s been massively redeveloped and is once again a super busy area.
Checkpoint Charlie
From Potsdamer, it’s just a short walk to Checkpoint Charlie, which was once one of Berlin’s main checkpoints between East and West. It became famous owing to the standoff in 1961 between the Russians and Americans when both countries lined up armed tanks facing one another there, but it was also the setting for numerous attempted escapes of people trying to flee East Berlin.
Afternoon
Gendarmenmarkt
Still right in the center of the city and super nearby is the Gendarmenmarkt, unquestionably Berlin’s most beautiful square. Here, you’ll find the German Cathedral, the French Cathedral, and the Konzerthaus (concert hall), all of which are magnificent structures. The square was first built in the 17th century, so it’s one of the most historic sights in the city.
Nearby are upscale shops, refined cafes and restaurants, and lots of luxury hotels. And if you visit during the Christmas period, this is also where one of Berlin’s most famous Christmas markets is held.
Bebelplatz
For some more spectacular architecture, continue along to Bebelplatz, another monumental public square.
Just on the south end of the Unter den Linden boulevard (which is where you’re headed next), the square has a lovely green stretch to its east and a selection of grand buildings ringing it. Those include: The Prinzessinnenpalais, a former Prussian royal residence, the Old Library, the Old Palace, St. Hedwig’s Cathedral and the State Opera building.
Take some time to simply enjoy being in one of Berlin’s most impressive squares, surrounded by beautiful historic buildings.
Unter den Linden
Now, to wind down your city center exploration, walk west along Unter den Linden boulevard, which is one of Berlin’s grandest and most famous streets.
This stretch of it is lined with apartments, offices, and high-end hotels, restaurants, and shops, and it has a pedestrian walkway running down the middle of it, so is super pleasant for a stroll.
Walk along the street all the way to the Brandenburg Gate, which is where your city center tour began!
Evening
Tour the Reichstag building (parliament)
As the sun start to set, head to the Reichstag building (right next door to the Gate), which houses the German parliament. You can climb to the top of the dome for a stunning panoramic view of the city, which I think is best enjoyed during the evening (that’s why I’ve recommended you come here later in the day rather than first thing).
Just be aware that you’ll need to reserve your access to the Parliament Bulding 2 or 3 weeks in advance. Here’s the link to make your reservation.
The Reichstag building
Dinner at the Zollpackhof
After so much sightseeing, you’ll need a good dinner, so how about a typical german beer garden?
Not far away from the Reichtsg building is one of my favorite german restaurants (Ok, not only MY favorite one, it is also the place where you get to see politicians enjoying a beer after work), the Zollpackhof.
Among the many German specialties that Berlin is known for, schnitzel is perhaps the most iconic. Schnitzel is a breaded and fried cutlet of meat, usually made with pork or veal. It's typically served with a side of potatoes, salad, and a squeeze of lemon.
But schnitzel is not the only German specialty worth trying in Berlin. Currywurst, a type of sausage that is smothered in curry ketchup, is another local favorite.
My favorite German dish is spätzle, a type of egg noodle that is often served with cheese and fried onions.
And last but not least, it doesn’t really matter whether you're in the mood for schnitzel, currywurst, or spätzle… the important thing is to get a nice, fresh beer to go with your choice of food. And then another beer after!
Day 2: Museum Island, Kreuzberg,
Morning
Berlin is home to some of the best art and culture in the world, and there's no shortage of museums and galleries to explore.
Get a dose of culture and history at Museum Island
Start your day at the Museum Island, a unique complex of five museums located on a small island in the Spree River. The island is home to five of the city's most famous museums, and some of the world's most important and impressive collections of art and cultural artifacts.
Here’s a link where you can learn about all the museums.
Pergamom museum
The most famous one is the Pergamon Museum, but unfortunately it will be closed for a couple of years, due to restoration work. Even so, it’s a super cool building that is still worth checking out from the outside.
The Neues Museum
The Neues Museum, which is definitely not closed, houses an impressive collection of artifacts and exhibits from the prehistoric era to the Byzantine period. The museum was originally built in the mid-19th century, but was heavily damaged during World War II.
After decades of neglect, the museum was finally restored and reopened to the public in 2009, thanks to a massive renovation project led by British architect David Chipperfield.
The restoration work was focused on preserving the original structure and materials of the building while also integrating modern design elements and technology. One of the most notable exhibits in the Neues Museum is the bust of the Egyptian queen Nefertiti, which is considered one of the most beautiful works of art from ancient Egypt.
Another highlight of the museum is the collection of prehistoric and early historic artifacts from the Stone Age, Bronze Age, and Iron Age, which includes tools, weapons, pottery, and jewelry.
If you purchase a day ticket for the Museum Island do not miss the other three museums which are also fabulous!
Altes National Gallery
So, after a a coffee break, continue into the Altes National Gallery, or Old National Gallery, founded in 1861. This museum houses a vast range of 19th-century art, with a focus on German Romanticism, Impressionism, and the Biedermeier period. Some of the highlights of the collection include works by Caspar David Friedrich, Adolph Menzel, and Auguste Renoir.
Altes Museum
Next up is the Altes Museum, or Old Museum, which is the oldest museum on the island and was founded in 1830 (you’ve probably realized by now that germans are not very original when giving names to their museums).
The museum's impressive collection focuses on ancient Greek and Roman art and artefacts. The collection includes sculpture, pottery, and other decorative arts from ancient Greece, Rome, and Etruria.
Bode Museum
Finally, the Bode Museum, named after its founder Wilhelm von Bode, houses an extensive collection of European art from the Middle Ages to the early 20th century. The museum's collection includes sculpture, paintings, and decorative arts from across Europe.
The Bode Museum is also home to the Münzkabinett, or Coin Cabinet, which houses one of the world's largest collections of coins and medals.
Afternoon
Depending on how many of the museums you visit today, you could be spending anywhere from a couple of hours to the better part of the day here.
Berliner Dom
But assuming you only check out a couple of them, you should be finishing up by mid to late afternoon. I’m sure you’ll be hungry by now, but before getting lunch, make a quick visit over to the Berliner Dom (Berlin’s main cathedral) to check out some stunning architecture.
If you’re up for it, to head to the top of the dome for some great views over the city.
The Berliner Dom
Turkish lunch in Kreuzberg
After checking out the church, hop in the subway and head over to Kreuzberg, which is a very cool neighborhood with a big Turkish population. Of course, that means you should have Turkish food for lunch!
Once you get to Kreuzberg, there are tons of places to choose from and just about all of them will be authentic. So pick one that looks good and get ready to feast.
Döner or iskender kebabs are of course classics, but gözleme, a savory pastry stuffed with some combination of spinach, cheese, potatoes, and meat and served with ayran (a yogurt-like drink) is another very traditional option.
And in case you’re vegetarian, imam bayildi (baked eggplant stuffed with onions, tomatoes, garlic, and other spices) is always one of my favorites. The name translates to "the imam fainted", and legend has it that the dish was so delicious that it made the imam who it’s named after faint with pleasure.
Of course, baklava (a flaky pastry) or Turkish delight (a chewy gelatinous candy) are the almost obligatory deserts.
Kreuzberg street art tour (organized or self-guided)
Kreuzberg was once a rather gritty neighborhood, but it has gentrified extremely rapidly in recent years and is now a hub for expats, digital nomads, and wealthy young Berliners.
It still has a rather vibrant street art scene though, so start your visit here by wandering around and checking out the murals and graffiti. There are organized street art tours that you can join or you can explore on your own.
This quarter is also an excellent place to enjoy a beer in one of its many bars, so grab a drink after your street art tour.
Konig and Berlinische art galleries
For some more “institutional art”, Kreuzberg is also home to a couple of excellent museums and galleries.
The Konig Galerie, housed in a former church (St. Agnes) and with a very brutalist style, is a great place to discover young emerging artists across various disciplines. They often have some really cool works and their exhibits are typically visually stunning and thought provoking.
For sometihng a bit more traditional, the Berlinische Galerie is the place to go if you’re interested in modern art (from the 1840’s onward).
Volkspark Hasenheide and Tempelhofer Field
When you’ve had your fill of art and museums, make your way south to Volkspark Hasenheide and the adjacent Tepelhofer Field for a little break amidst some greenery.
I think this is one of the cooler parks in the city, as up until 2008, it was an airport (Tempelhof airport)! When the airport closed, rather than building on the site, the city turned it into a park and it’s now 950 acres of public space. There’s a walking and cycling trail running through it, barbecue areas, community gardens, and big open green spaces to just hang out.
Tempelhofer Field
Evening
When the sun begins to set, make your way over to Bergmannstraße, which is a busy street where you’ll find lots second hand shops, restaurants, cafes, bars, and neat stores.
Go for a wander, pop in somewhere for dinner, and just enjoy strolling about the neighborhood. If it’s open, the Marheineke Markthalle is a great place to grab some snacks, produce, or local meats and cheeses.
You could also check out the historic Markthalle Neun, which has is now a food hall (it closes at 6 PM most days though) with vendors selling a huge variety of dishes and cuisines from around the world.
The Landwehrkanal also runs right through the neighborhood, and it’s lovely to walk along the canal during the early evening, especially around sunset.
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Day 3: Tiergarten Park, Prenzlauer Berg and Charlottenburg
Morning
Berlin is known for its beautiful parks and green spaces, and there's no better way to unwind than by spending a day in one of the city's many parks.
Tiergarten Park
Start your day by renting a bicycle and packing a picnic, and cycle your way to the Tiergarten, the city's largest park which offers plenty of space to relax and enjoy nature.
The Tiergarten is located in the heart of Berlin. Originally created as the hunting ground for thePrussian kings, it became a public park in the 18th century and has since been a popular destination for locals and travelers alike.
Throughout its history, the park has undergone many changes, including being used as a military training ground during the 19th century and being heavily damaged during World War II. However, it has since been restored and is now one of the largest and most beautiful parks in Europe.
Today, it is home to several landmarks and attractions, including the Berlin Zoo, the Victory Column, and the Tiergarten Park Carillon (which is the largest carillon in Europe with 68 bells), in addition to a host of ponds, walking paths, and beautiful gardens.
One of the best ways to experience the Tiergarten today is by bicycle. The park has lots of bike paths that wind through its beautiful landscape, and it’s really pleasant to cruise around on two wheels while enjoying the fresh air and scenery.
You can rent bikes from several locations around the city, including near the Brandenburg Gate and Potsdamer Platz. For an introductory cruise of the park, I suggest starting from the Brandenburg Gate.
From there, you can ride along the main path, which runs through the center of the park and leads to the Victory Column. This iconic monument offers stunning views of the city and is a great place to stop and take some photos.
After visiting the Victory Column, continue along the bike path to the Berlin Zoo. This world-renowned zoo is home to over 20,000 animals, including pandas, elephants, and polar bears.
Another must-see attraction is the Tiergarten Park Carillon. This impressive bell tower plays music every day at noon and is a unique and beautiful feature of the park.
Finally, end your tour of the park by exploring some of its smaller gardens and ponds. The English Garden, for example, is a beautiful and tranquil spot with winding paths and a small lake.
Try to make a stop at some point at the Neuer See, a picturesque lake with a boathouse that you can rent boats from.
The Victory Column in the Tiergarten
Afternoon
Berlin is home to many trendy neighborhoods, each with its own unique vibe and style, so I recommend spending the afternoon today exploring some of these areas and checking out the local shops and restaurants.
So, when you’ve finished exploring the park, I suggest grabbing lunch somewhere nearby and then heading back into the busy city.
Kurfürstendamm shopping district
After lunch, make your way over to the Kurfürstendamm, commonly known as Ku'damm, which is a famous shopping district that dates back to the 19th century.
From the southern/western end of the Tiergarten, this street street will be just a quick walk away. Technically located in the Charlottenburg neighborhood (but on its eastern border) the Ku’damm is home to tons of shops, restaurants, and historic landmarks.
Starting from the eastern end of Ku'damm, you'll find yourself in front of the famous Kaufhaus des Westens, also known as KaDeWe. This iconic department store is the largest in mainland Europe and offers a wide range of luxury goods, including designer fashion, jewelry, and home goods.
Continuing westward, you'll pass by numerous shops and boutiques, including high-end fashion brands like Chanel, Gucci, and Louis Vuitton.
For a taste of local Berlin fashion, check out the flagship store of the trendy streetwear brand, König Souvenir.
Kaiser Wilhelm Memorial Church
As you stroll along Ku'damm, you'll also pass by a historic landmark, the Kaiser Wilhelm Memorial Church. Originally built in the late 19th century to honor Kaiser Wilhelm I, the church was heavily damaged during a bombing raid in 1943.
After the war, its ruins became a powerful symbol of the destruction of World War II, and in the 1960s, a new church was built adjacent to the ruins, incorporating some of the original elements.
Take some time to visit this impressive place. You can visit the inside of the ruin and the new church, which features a striking modern design, including blue stained glass windows.
Grab a snack at KaDeWe
If you're feeling hungry after all the shopping and history, stop by one of the many restaurants or cafes that line the street to enjoy a delicious meal.
Alternatively, the KaDeWe, the gourmet food hall on the sixth floor is a must-visit, with an incredible selection of international cuisine and local specialties. Eventhough it is very fancy, it is not expensive.
So make sure you make some time to enjoy at least a coffee and a pastry at the french section.
Ka-De-We department store
Evening
Exploring trendy Prenzlauer Berg
Whenever you’re ready to move on, hop in the subway and make your way over to Prenzlauer Berg, to the northeast.
This is a really vibrant neighborhood and it’s universally known in Berlin for its trendy cafes, bars, and shops. It’s been popular for ages, but has become especially “in vogue” in recent years.
As you walk through the area’s streets, you'll notice the distinctive architecture of the area, which features elegant, turn-of-the-century buildings mixed with modern constructions.
One of the most popular spots in the neighborhood is Kollwitzplatz, a bustling square lined with cafes, restaurants, and shops. Here, you can enjoy a coffee or a beer while watching the locals go about their day.
From Kollwitzplatz, you can continue walking down Kollwitzstraße, which is filled with small boutiques and specialty shops selling everything from handmade clothing to artisanal chocolates.
During the day on Sundays, there’s the Mauerpark Flea Market, where you can find vintage clothes, antiques, and handmade crafts.
Characteristically pretty buildings in Prenzlauer Berg. Photo: Abaris, CC BY-SA 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons
Mauerpark
If you're looking for a bit of greenery, head to Mauerpark, which is a pleasant green space in the center of the neighborhood that is always filled with a nice mix of locals, expats, and tourists. You’ll find families picnicking, people going for runs or cycling, and friends getting together to grab a drink.
There are also always musicians performing near the entrance and lots of vendors and artists selling neat little products and crafts.
If you want a bit more culture, you can also check out any of the many neighborhood art galleries and music venues, which often host live performances and exhibitions.
Dinner and a night out in Prenzlauer Berg
As dinner time rolls around, you’ll have your choice of global cuisines, as this is a rather international area. So just take a look on Google Maps and pick somewhere that looks good.
After dinner, continue wandering through Prenzlauer Berg, either just enjoying the atmosphere or popping into any of the bars for a drink or two.
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Bonus 4th day - Day trip to Potsdam or Sachsenhausen Concentration Camp Memorial
Potsdam is just a short train ride away from Berlin and is home to many beautiful palaces and gardens. The Sanssouci Palace is a must-see, with its stunning gardens and ornate architecture.
The palace was built in the 18th century for Frederick the Great and is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Another option for a day trip is to visit the Sachsenhausen Concentration Camp Memorial. The memorial is located just outside of Berlin and offers a sobering reminder of the atrocities committed during the Third Reich.
I highly recommend you take a guided tour of the site to learn about the history of the camp and its impact on the world.
Other things to do in Berlin
In addition to the activities listed throughout the itinerary above, there are many other things to do in Berlin. Here are some additional recommendations:
Visit the Berlin Zoo: The Berlin Zoo is one of the oldest and most famous zoos in the world. It's home to more than 20,000 animals and offers a fun and educational day out for the whole family.
Take a River Cruise: A river cruise is a great way to see the city from a different perspective. You can take a leisurely cruise down the River Spree and enjoy views of the city's famous landmarks.
Explore the Nightlife: Berlin has a thriving nightlife scene, with plenty of bars, clubs, and music venues to choose from. Whether you're looking for a casual night out or a wild party, there's something for everyone in Berlin.
Berlin is a fascinating city that offers something for everyone. Whether you're interested in history, art, culture, or just having fun, there's plenty to see and do in Berlin. By following this 5-day itinerary, you'll be able to experience some of the best that the city has to offer.
So start planning your trip today and get ready for an unforgettable adventure in Berlin!
*For some ideas on what neighborhoods of Berlin to look at when planning your stay, check out this helpful neighborhood guide.
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