Berlin 2 Day Itinerary

Two-Day Itinerary for Berlin

This itinerary focuses on key historical sites and experiences. It can be adjusted based on your interests!

Where to Stay:

For a central location with easy access to many sights:

  • Budget: The Circus Hostel (known for its social atmosphere), Grand Hostel Berlin (great for solo travelers), Michelberger Hotel (stylish, hip vibe)
  • Mid-range: Motel One locations (modern and affordable options near landmarks), The Weinberger (boutique hotel with a focus on art and design), Hotel Indigo Berlin - Alexanderplatz (unique location with modern amenities)

Day 1: History & Remembrance

  • Morning: Start your day at the Brandenburg Gate, a symbol of German reunification. Stroll through the nearby Tiergarten Park, taking in its tranquil beauty and reflecting on the historical significance of the city.
  • Afternoon: Visit the Reichstag Building. Book a tour online to secure a spot, as they are popular. Spend some time at the top of the dome for stunning views of Berlin.

Things to see & do:

  • Brandenburg Gate (Brandenburger Tor): Take photos and learn about this iconic landmark’s history.

  • Reichstag Building (Reichstagsgebäude): Explore the German Parliament building and its impressive dome.

  • Mural Tour: Head to the East Side Gallery, a preserved section of the Berlin Wall adorned with murals, and admire the colorful art while learning about its history as a symbol of freedom and unity.

  • Museum Island (Museumsinsel): Visit one of the many museums on this island in the Spree River, including:

    • Pergamon Museum: Marvel at ancient Greek and Roman architecture, reconstructed within its walls.

    • Neues Museum:

Explore fascinating artifacts from ancient Egypt and Mesopotamia alongside the bust of Nefertiti. * Alte Museum: Admire the Neoclassical architecture and admire the sculptures and art within.

  • Berlin Wall Memorial: Reflect on the city’s past at this powerful memorial, learn about its history through informative exhibits and explore the preserved sections.

Where to eat:

  • Lunch: Grab a Currywurst from Konnopke’s Imbiss near the Brandenburg Gate. This classic Berlin dish is a must-try.
  • Dinner: Enjoy traditional German cuisine at Zur letzten Instanz, Berlin’s oldest restaurant (established in 1621!), located near the historic Nikolaiviertel.

Other options for lunch/dinner:

  • Curry 33: Another popular option for a delicious Currywurst experience.
  • Mustafa’s Gemüse Kebap: A late-night institution known for its long lines and mouthwatering Turkish kebabs.
  • Berlin Story Bunker: Experience history in a new way by dining inside a converted World War II bunker.

Evening:

Take a walking tour of the Berlin Wall to see the preserved sections, street art, and understand the scale of its division.

  • Dinner: Enjoy traditional German cuisine at a Currywurst stand (try to find one with a history) or explore the vibrant nightlife scene in the Kreuzberg neighborhood.
  • Option for a more relaxed evening:

Have a picnic dinner near the Spree River, enjoying the picturesque views of the city. Important Information:

  • Carry cash: While most places in Berlin accept credit cards, many smaller businesses and restaurants prefer cash, especially on the East Side Gallery tour.
  • Public transportation: Berlin has an excellent public transportation system (U-Bahn, S-Bahn, buses). Get a “Berlin WelcomeCard” for unlimited travel on public transport within

Berlin’s zones and free entry to museums.

  • Learn some basic German phrases: It will be helpful to know a few words like “Danke” (thank you), “Bitte” (please), “Guten Tag” (good day) and “Entschuldigung” (excuse me).
  • Be aware of your surroundings: Like any major city, Berlin has its share of tourist scams and pickpockets.

Stay Safe:

  • Keep valuables secure: Use a money belt or keep important items in a zipped bag and close to you. Be especially careful with wallets and phones when on crowded public transport or in tourist areas.
  • Be aware of your belongings: Avoid leaving your luggage unattended and be mindful of potential theft in busy areas.

Stay Alert:

Keep an eye on your belongings at all times, and avoid carrying large amounts of cash or displaying expensive items openly.

  • Learn the basics:

Familiarize yourself with the public transportation system (zones, routes, etc.)

  • Safety in numbers:

If you’re traveling alone, consider joining a guided tour for safety and companionship.

Day 2: Exploring Berlin’s Culture & Charm

  • Morning: Visit the Reichstag Building (if not done on Day 1)

  • Alternative option: Explore the city with a free walking tour offered by several organizations.

  • Afternoon: Enjoy a leisurely afternoon exploring the historic East Side Gallery. The open-air gallery is a unique and inspiring experience, showcasing powerful murals from the fall of the Berlin Wall.

  • Option for a more relaxed afternoon: Stroll through the Tiergarten (Berlin’s Central Park), explore the museums on Museum Island or enjoy a picnic lunch at the Brandenburg Gate.

  • Dinner:

For a delicious and affordable dinner, try Currywurst at Mustafa’s Gemüse Kebap.

Or for something different, try a traditional German “Kneipe” (pub) experience with a hearty meal and a local beer.

Other things to see and do:

  • Explore the city on your own: Berlin is a very walkable city. Take a walk through some of the historical neighborhoods like Prenzlauer Berg or Mitte, and discover its hidden gems.
  • Visit the Brandenburg Gate: It’s a must-see in Berlin, symbolizing the reunification of Germany.

Other things to consider:

  • Purchase a Berlin WelcomeCard: This card offers free public transportation within the city and discounts on attractions, tours, and restaurants (choose a location near your interests for a starting point).
  • Consider visiting during the day: Many museums offer daytime tours or workshops.
  • Explore Berlin’s parks:

Berlin has many beautiful parks, including the Tiergarten, Tempelhofer Feld, and Mauerpark.

  • Enjoy the nightlife:

If you have time, explore the vibrant nightlife of Berlin, with a range of options from traditional pubs to trendy nightclubs (Berlin’s nightlife is diverse and exciting).

Alternative options for Day 2:

  • Explore the city by bike: Rent a bike and take a scenic ride through Berlin’s parks and bike paths.

  • Visit a historic site: Spend time at the East Side Gallery, exploring its history and the stories behind the artwork, or the Reichstag Building for incredible views of the city.

  • Enjoy a traditional German meal: Try a “Currywurst” tour for a taste of Berlin’s history and culture.

  • Experience a different side of Berlin:

Consider visiting the Berlin Wall Memorial, which offers an insightful glimpse into the city’s past as it commemorates the historical divisions in Berlin, or explore the city through the lens of its history, by taking a guided tour of the Berlin Wall.

  • Learn about the history of the Brandenburg Gate:

Explore the Reichstag Building and its connection to German reunification.

  • Consider a “Berlin WelcomeCard” for unlimited travel:

Visit the Mauerpark, experience the vibrant nightlife of the Kreuzberg neighborhood (with its many historical sites), or explore other areas like the historic Nikolaiviertel.

  • Museum Island:

The Reichstag Building is a great place to start your exploration.

  • Explore the Brandenburg Gate’s history:

Visit the Brandenburg Gate itself,

exploring the history of this iconic structure.

Take a walking tour, enjoying the vibrant nightlife of the city

  • Enjoy the diverse experiences Berlin offers:

  • Dinner (Day 2): Enjoy delicious and traditional German dishes in a restaurant with a historical ambiance.

Enjoy the vibrant atmosphere of Berlin’s "