music
Vinyl Digging at Space Hall
This isn't just a record store; it's a legendary institution for electronic music enthusiasts. Spend an afternoon crate-digging through their massive selection of techno, house,…
Berlin Travel Guide
Berlin is a vibrant, gritty, and endlessly creative metropolis that wears its complex history on its sleeve while constantly reinventing itself. It is a city of stark contrasts, where world-class museums and historic monuments sit alongside cutting-edge street art, legendary nightlife, and sprawling green spaces.
About Berlin
First documented in the 13th century, Berlin evolved from a modest trading settlement into the capital of the Kingdom of Prussia and later the German Empire. Its 20th-century history was defined by the trauma of World War II and the subsequent Cold War division, during which the city was split by the infamous Berlin Wall, serving as a powerful symbol of the ideological struggle between East and West. Following the fall of the Wall in 1989 and the reunification of Germany in 1990, Berlin underwent a massive transformation. It has since reclaimed its status as a global hub for politics, culture, and innovation, successfully blending its scars from the past with a forward-looking, cosmopolitan energy.
Berlin’s culture is defined by its fierce independence, inclusivity, and a 'do-it-yourself' spirit that permeates everything from its underground techno clubs to its thriving art scene. It is a deeply multicultural city where traditional German beer halls and hearty dishes like currywurst and schnitzel coexist with a massive array of international cuisines, reflecting its diverse population. Art and history are woven into the city's fabric, with more museums than rainy days and a public space that serves as an open-air gallery. The city’s nightlife is legendary, often described as a 24-hour playground that never truly sleeps, attracting artists, thinkers, and revelers from every corner of the globe.
Practical info
Currency
Euro (EUR)
Language
German
Time zone
Central European Time (CET) / Central European Summer Time (CEST)
Climate
Berlin has a temperate continental climate, characterized by warm, pleasant summers and cold, often grey winters with occasional snow.
Quick facts
- Berlin is home to more museums than it has rainy days on average per year.
- The city is incredibly green, with approximately one-third of its total area consisting of forests, parks, gardens, and waterways.
- Berlin has the largest department store in continental Europe, the KaDeWe, which covers over 60,000 square meters of retail space.
- It is the only city in the world that hosts three major opera houses, all of which are still in operation today.
- The Berlin Zoological Garden is the oldest zoo in Germany and holds the record for the most diverse collection of species in the world.
Top things to do in Berlin
The 15 attractions, museums, viewpoints, and experiences travelers visit most.
music
Körnerpark Garden Concert Series
This hidden gem of a park feels like a slice of Versailles dropped into Neukölln. During the warmer months, they host intimate, free classical and jazz concerts in the sunken…
culture
Silent Green Kulturquartier Film Screening
Housed in a former crematorium, this venue is one of the most atmospheric spots in the city for independent cinema. They host curated film series and experimental screenings that…
nature
Urban Gardening Workshop at Prinzessinnengarten
Get your hands dirty at this legendary mobile urban garden that promotes sustainable living in the city. They offer seasonal workshops on everything from composting to urban…
landmarks
Berlin Underworld (Berliner Unterwelten) Flak Tower Tour
While many know the bunker tours, the specialized tours exploring the remnants of WWII flak towers are truly haunting and insightful. It’s a deep dive into the city's…
shopping
Vintage Shopping at Sing Blackbird
This isn't just a vintage shop; it's a curated experience where you can find high-quality second-hand fashion while sipping on a vegan latte. It’s the perfect spot to hunt for…
adventure
Paddleboarding on the Rummelsburger Bucht
Escape the city heat by renting a SUP board and paddling through the calm waters of the Rummelsburger Bucht. It’s a much more peaceful alternative to the crowded Spree boat tours…
culture
Kiez-Kino Night at Lichtblick-Kino
This tiny, independent neighborhood cinema in Prenzlauer Berg is a local treasure. They specialize in arthouse films, documentaries, and classic movies, often shown in their…
nightlife
Natural Wine Tasting at 8greenbottles
Berlin is currently obsessed with natural wine, and this spot in Prenzlauer Berg is the place to learn about it. Their informal tastings are approachable, fun, and a great way to…
adventure
Bouldering at Berta Block
If you want to get active, head to this massive bouldering gym in Pankow. It’s a social, high-energy environment that is very popular with the local climbing community,…
nature
Botanical Garden Night Walk
During special seasonal events, the Berlin Botanical Garden opens for evening walks where the paths are illuminated. It’s a magical, quiet way to experience the massive…
food
BRLO Brwhouse Beer Sommelier Tasting
Skip the standard brewery tour and dive deep into the craft beer scene with a guided tasting led by a certified sommelier. You'll explore experimental brews paired with seasonal,…
food
Fermentation Workshop at Mimi Ferments
Dive deep into the science of koji, miso, and shoyu at this niche workshop space. It's a fascinating, hands-on look at the craft behind some of Berlin's most innovative…
nightlife
Late Night Ping Pong at Dr. Pong
A Prenzlauer Berg staple that feels like a chaotic, fun house party. The game involves everyone running around a table in a circle, making it the perfect icebreaker for meeting…
landmarks
Guided Tour of the Stasi Museum (Normannenstraße)
Step into the preserved offices of the former East German secret police headquarters. It’s a chilling, authentic look at the surveillance state that is far more intimate and…
Plan a trip to Berlin
Pick a length and we'll lay out the days — walkable routing, restaurants, opening hours included.
Nearby destinations
Frequently asked questions
What currency is used in Berlin?
The currency in Berlin, Germany is Euro (EUR).
What language is spoken in Berlin?
German is the primary language spoken in Berlin.
What's the weather like in Berlin?
Berlin has a temperate continental climate, characterized by warm, pleasant summers and cold, often grey winters with occasional snow.
How many days do you need in Berlin?
Most travelers spend 2–5 days in Berlin. With 46+ attractions and 0+ noteworthy restaurants, three days hits the highlights, while five lets you dig into neighborhoods and day trips. Use the Periplo iPhone app to lay out a day-by-day plan.
What are the must-see things to do in Berlin?
Top picks include Brandenburg Gate, Berlin Wall Memorial, Museum Island, Reichstag Building, Jewish Museum Berlin.
Plan Berlin in your pocket
Open the Periplo iPhone app for a day-by-day itinerary, offline maps, and live event picks tuned to your taste.
Download on the App Store