Top 10 Things to Do in Berlin

What are the top 10 things to do in Berlin? Frankly, this isn’t an easy decision. That’s because, there is indeed a lot to see and do in this German city. Abandoned airports, amusement parks, beer museums, historic sites…you can pick from so many. If you are visiting Berlin for the first time, then here are the top 10 things you shouldn’t miss.

Berlin Wall Memorial – The Berlin Wall is no more, but you can learn about its history, the division of the country, and the eventual unification at the memorial. See a film in the information center on how the wall was constructed and then climb up to the view tower to look at the stretches of wall that still stand.

Brandenburg Gate (Brandenburger Tor) – This is among the most famous landmarks in Germany and it’s a Berlin icon. It has been a symbol of war, peace, terror, and victory. The gate now stands as testimony to the unification of Germany and is the spot where US President Ronald Reagan stood and declared, “Mr. Gorbachev, tear down this wall!”

Berlin Television Tower – Locals call this the Fernsehturm. At a height of 368 meters, it is the tallest building in Berlin and it’s visible from everywhere. Make the effort to climb up to the tower and you’ll find a beautiful, 360 degree panoramic view of Berlin.

River Cruise – Cruising the River Spree is a unique way to see Berlin. It is nice and relaxing as you see some of the famous city landmarks on the banks.

Jewish Museum – You can learn about the history of the Jewish community of Germany in this museum, as well as their contributions to the country. There are exhibits of the harrowing Holocaust memories. It’s a must visit.

Gendarmenmarkt – This is a beautiful square near Friedrichstraße, which is the most exclusive shopping area in Berlin. You will surely be impressed with the architecture of the buildings. Check out the French and German Cathedrals (Französischer Dom and Deutscher Dom) and the Concert House.

Charlottenburg Palace – This German palace is close to the Berlin city center. You will definitely like the palace garden if you are not up for the long walks inside the palace corridors. You might want to spend some time at the Charlottenburg museum too, which sits just opposite the palace.

Egyptian Museum – Locals call this Berlin museum the Papyrussammlung and the Agyptische Museum. Of course it’s not as grand as the museum in Cairo, but the papyrus and Egyptian art collection is impressive. See the Berlin Green Head and the Queen Nefertiti bust.

Berlin Philharmonic Orchestra – This is certainly among the most famous orchestras worldwide, and you don’t want to miss it. The interior of the concert hall is striking and its seating arrangement was revolutionary at the time it opened. Lunchtime concerts are free on Tuesdays.

Beer drinking – You have got to savor the beer when you visit Germany. There are many famous pubs and bars you could head to for trying some authentic German beer.