Summary of the Best Free Attractions in Berlin
The Best Sights and Landmarks in Berlin – for Free
Exploring the vibrant city of Berlin doesn’t necessarily require a hefty budget. Visitors can experience the rich culture, history, and stunning architecture the city is known for without spending a single euro.
Discover the must-see sights in Berlin and learn about the top 10 free attractions available to those who wander the streets of this incredible city.
Brandenburg Gate
Address: Pariser Platz, 10117 Berlin, Germany
The Brandenburg Gate is a symbol of Berlin’s historical tumult. This iconic landmark is a must-visit, having stood at the forefront during the Cold War as it segregated East and West Berlin. After the fall of the wall in 1989, it became a representation of unity.
Getting There: Metro Stop “Brandenburger Tor” (line S1, S2, S25, U55), “Potsdamer Platz” (line S25, S2, S1)
Reichstag
Address: Platz der Republik 1, 11011 Berlin, Germany
The Reichstag, the seat of the German Parliament, features a stunning glass dome that provides an exceptional view of Berlin’s skyline and insights into the parliamentary process.
Getting There: Bus stop “Reichstag/Bundestag” (line 100, M85), Metro Stop “Bundestag” (line U55)
Museum Island
Address: Museum Island, 10 Berlin, Germany
Museum Island is a UNESCO World Heritage site, home to five prestigious museums, including the famous Pergamon Museum and Berlin Cathedral.
Getting There: Metro stop “Alexanderplatz” (multiple U and S-bahn lines) or “Hackescher Markt” (line S5, S7, S75), Bus stop (line 100 or 200)
East Side Gallery
Address: Mühlenstraße, 10243 Berlin, Germany
Phone: +49 30 213085222
The East Side Gallery features a 1.3-kilometer stretch of the Berlin Wall, adorned with over 100 murals by international artists, transforming this historical remnant into the largest open-air gallery in the world.
Getting There: Metro Stop “Ostbahnhof” (line S5, S7, S75), or “Warschauer Straße” (line S5, S7, S75, U1), Bus stop “East Side Gallery” (line 248)
Memorial to the Murdered Jews of Europe
Address: Cora-Berliner-Straße 1, 10117 Berlin, Germany
Phone: +49 30 2639430
The Holocaust Memorial stands as a poignant reminder of the atrocities committed during the Holocaust. Designed by architect Peter Eisenman, it comprises over 2,500 concrete pillars in a stunning geometric arrangement, accompanied by an underground museum honoring the victims.
Getting There: Metro Stop “Brandenburger Tor” (line S1, S2, S25, U55), Bus stop “Warschauer Straße” (line S5, S7, S75, U1), Bus stop “Behrenstr./Wilhelmstr.”, or “Brandenburger Tor” (line 100, 200)
Tiergarten
Address: Tiergarten, 10 Berlin, Germany
Tiergarten is Berlin’s expansive urban park that offers residents and visitors alike a green escape in the midst of the bustling city. Spanning over 600 acres, it features lush lawns, picturesque pathways, and charming beer gardens, making it the perfect spot for relaxation and leisurely strolls.
Getting There: Metro Stop “Potsdamer Platz” (line U2, S1, S25) or “Bellevue” (line S5, S7, S9, S75)
Potsdamer Platz
Address: Potsdamer Platz, 10785 Berlin, Germany
Potsdamer Platz showcases contemporary architecture and bustling activity, featuring shopping centers and theaters, notably hosting the annual Berlin International Film Festival. The unique Sony Center dome, inspired by Mount Fuji, stands out dramatically at night as it illuminates the area in various colors.
Getting There: Metro Stop “Potsdamer Platz” (line U2, S1, S25)
Unter den Linden
Address: Unter den Linden 6, 10117 Berlin, Germany
Strolling along the grand boulevard of Unter den Linden, visitors can admire stunning historical statues and significant buildings, including Humboldt University, State Opera, and embassies, as the street winds its way from Museum Island to Brandenburg Gate.
Getting There: Metro Stop “Unter den Linden” (line S1, S25)
Memorial Church in Berlin
Address: Kaiser-Wilhelm-Gedächtnis-Kirche Berlin, Tauentzienstraße, 10789 Berlin, Germany
The Kaiser Wilhelm Memorial Church represents the collective memories of the city’s wartime struggles. It remains a prominent landmark, as it was deliberately left in ruin to remind future generations of the devastation wrought by war. A modern church and tower, with beautiful stained glass windows, were built next to the old structure.
Getting There: Metro Stop “Zoologischer Garten” (Line U2, U12, U9, S5, S7, S75, S9)
Hackescher Markt
Address: Hackescher Markt, 10178 Berlin, Germany
The Hackescher Markt area is vibrant with street art, quirky cinemas, and eclectic galleries, showcasing the artistic spirit of Berlin. Visitors can enjoy gallery hopping on Auguststrasse, often accompanied by free wine and snacks during Thursday evening openings.
Getting There: Metro Stop “Hackescher Markt” (line S5, S7, S9, S75)