When visiting you'll discover there is more to Germany than cuckoo clocks, beer and lederhosen. While a Bavarian experience can be wonderfully charming, you won't truly understand this great nation until you have visited its coolest and edgiest city: the dynamic international hub known as Berlin.
This bustling city may not, at first glance, be as architecturally impressive as tourist favorites like Munich or Rothenburg, but there's far more to Berlin than initially meets the eye. This contemporary wonderland is bursting with creativity, featuring the most thought-provoking works of art, not to mention, some of the most exciting cuisine in all of Europe.
A Berlin weekend trip will introduce you to the most dynamic corners of the city, but an introductory trip to the city such as this will likely have you planning to return. Check out these fun suggestions and start planning the ultimate Berlin getaway.
Day One: Arrival
Transit can play a major role in shaping your 3-day Berlin trip. If you arrive by plane, be prepared for a commute: either a half-hour drive or a trip on the RB23 commuter rail. Car rentals are definitely not necessary if you want to stick to the city center, but could be helpful if you want to check out more distant attractions such as the Charlottenburg Palace.
If you prefer a transit-based trip, choose your accommodations accordingly. The Kreuzberg area will provide the easiest access to the city's most iconic attractions, but Charlottenburg promises a wonderfully elegant atmosphere. Intrigued by Berlin's reputation for edgy neighborhoods? You'll feel drawn to Neukölln and Prenzlauer Berg. Many hotels have onsite bars and other excellent amenities, so, depending on when you check in, you may have time to unwind before you begin to explore.
For those not sure where to begin, start your trip with local icons, where you can snap photos and get a feel for this unique city. The Brandenburg Gate, for example, is not to be missed. This monument has a fascinating history and, since the fall of the Berlin Wall, has become a symbol of national unity. This is just steps away from the gorgeous Reichstag Building — a historically significant structure that has been carefully renovated to provide a nod to the past while also incorporating fascinating contemporary elements.
With so many amazing dining options available, it can be difficult to know where to start. For your first evening, consider a classic German dining experience, complete with schnitzel and beer or mulled wine. Hofbräu Wirtshaus promises a lively experience, while Hackethal's serves the best wurst and sauerkraut. Treat yourself to unique schnitzel burgers or satisfying fried chicken at Heimwerk Hackescher Markt.
Day Two: Full Day
There are many intriguing things to do in Berlin, so packing your itinerary should not be difficult — even when you have a full day to explore. Begin your day with a hearty breakfast. This is included with many hotel stays, but Berlin's cafés are also worth visiting. Try the Middle Eastern-inspired dishes at Benedict or delicious pancakes at Café Krone.
Contemporary art is a big deal in Berlin so, if possible, set aside some time to check out the city's most evocative pieces. These can be viewed at the New National Gallery or the Berlinische Galerie. Simply strolling around the city's trendy neighborhoods should introduce you to a thriving art scene, with vibrant street art on display at Haus Schwarzenberg and the iconic East Side Gallery.
For a somber, but meaningful experience, stop by the Memorial to the Murdered Jews of Europe — a fascinating, maze-like memorial that has been described as both surreal and thought-provoking. Touching on similar themes, the Topography of Terror includes many deeply moving exhibits.
After so many somber exhibits, you may be ready for something a bit more cheerful. This is the perfect time to stretch your legs and spend some time in nature. You don't need to visit with children to appreciate Zoo Berlin, although this is definitely a must for any family vacation. Whether you're accompanied by kids or are simply a kid at heart, you will be delighted by the pandas, rhinoceros and hippos. There are also many beautiful gardens, so simply wandering around can be a delight.
Another stunning destination? The Berlin Botanic Garden. The warm greenhouses are especially inviting during a winter visit, although, during the holiday season, you'll want to head outside and view the twinkling Christmas lights. The Britzer Garten is also lovely — especially in the spring when the tulips will have you gazing in awe.
If you're feeling hungry, take this opportunity to discover the amazing diversity of Berlin's culinary scene. The city's best street foods should be readily available during the early afternoon when you'll notice many bustling stalls. There is much to sample but you can always feast on currywurst and döner kebab. Depending on the weather, you may prefer to explore Berlin's indoor market halls, where you'll find not only amazing butcher shops and cheese markets but also, enticing international options ranging from Italian dishes to Peruvian specialties.
Following a busy day, you may be ready to relax. While it's tempting to hang out at your hotel, this could be the perfect time to take in a remarkable show. Berlin's theater scene is thriving and, with magnificent venues such as Friedrichstadt-Palast well within reach, you'd do yourself a disservice if you neglected to book tickets to the hottest shows. If you prefer live music, you're in luck: Berlin is home to amazing jazz clubs. Head to A-trane or Zig Zag for an unforgettable experience.
Of course, dining is a key part of your "dinner and a show" extravaganza and, for your final evening, you might crave some extra sophistication. Explore contemporary or international cuisine at elegant spots such as Restaurant Macionga or the Michelin-starred wonder known as GOLVET.
Day Three: Departure
Following an exciting 3 day Berlin trip, you are ready to move on — perhaps taking the train to another wonderful German city or catching a flight and heading home. Either way, you will not want to waste your final morning or afternoon in Berlin.
If you're feeling tired after the previous day's adventures, get a caffeine boost at one of Berlin's many coffee shops. This local coffee culture is as diverse as the city itself and, whether you crave a Viennese experience or something a bit more contemporary, you'll find many sources of caffeine, not to mention, delicious pastries.
Next, spend some time by the beautiful Spree River. Meander the pathways near the river and check out stunning structures such as the Berlin Cathedral and the Humboldt Forum. The Nikolaiviertel is as pretty as a postcard and, while much of it was reconstructed after World War II, there is no denying the allure of the pastel colors and the cobblestone streets.
Because the airport is removed from the city center, it might be worthwhile to plan visits to nearby attractions before you depart. If you're a Rammstein fan, this means visiting the Trudelturm, which is architecturally intriguing. For a peaceful experience before you tackle the hectic airport environment, head to the landscape park known as the Former Johannisthal Airfield. There, you can enjoy a casual stroll in a remarkably peaceful setting — and if you're lucky, you'll spot several sheep.
Leaving can be difficult when there is still so much to explore, but remember: whatever your next adventure involves, you will have covered a lot of what Berlin has to offer in three days.
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