3 Days in Berlin Itinerary
History, art, street food, and cutting-edge culture in Germany's vibrant capital
Berlin is unlike any other European capital. A city shaped by division and reunification, it wears its history openly while constantly reinventing itself. From the solemnity of the Memorial to the Murdered Jews of Europe to the vibrant street art of Kreuzberg, Berlin offers a uniquely layered experience. This 3-day itinerary balances key historical sites with the creative energy that defines modern Berlin.
Day 1: History and Reunification
Your first day explores Berlin's complex 20th-century history, from the Brandenburg Gate to the sobering remnants of the Wall. These sites tell the story of a divided city and its remarkable reunification.
Day 1: The Wall and Beyond
Brandenburg Gate
Start at Berlin's most iconic landmark. Once a symbol of division (it stood in the death strip between East and West), the gate now represents German unity. Arrive early to beat the crowds and take photos without tourist hordes.
Memorial to the Murdered Jews of Europe
Walk south to this powerful Holocaust memorial. The 2,711 concrete blocks create a disorienting, wave-like field. The underground Information Centre documents individual stories. Allow time for reflection.
Topography of Terror
This outdoor and indoor exhibition stands on the former headquarters of the Gestapo and SS. It documents the Nazi regime and its crimes in unflinching detail. A 200-metre stretch of the Berlin Wall remains here.
Checkpoint Charlie
The famous Cold War crossing point between East and West Berlin. The original checkpoint booth is now in a museum. The surrounding area is touristy but historically significant. The Mauermuseum documents escape attempts.
Lunch at Markthalle Neun
Head to Kreuzberg for lunch at this historic market hall. On regular days it hosts food vendors; Thursdays bring Street Food Thursday (5-10pm). Try currywurst, Turkish food, or global street eats.
East Side Gallery
The longest remaining section of the Berlin Wall (1.3km) is now the world's largest open-air gallery. Over 100 paintings cover the eastern side, including the famous 'fraternal kiss' between Brezhnev and Honecker.
Dinner in Kreuzberg or Friedrichshain
Stay in the eastern districts for dinner. Kreuzberg offers excellent Turkish food (try Hasir or street kebabs), while Friedrichshain has trendy restaurants. For German food, try Zur Kleinen Markthalle.
Free Walking Tours
Berlin has excellent free walking tours (tip-based). SANDEMANs and Strawberry Tours both offer 3-hour introductions covering major sites. A great way to orient yourself and learn history from passionate guides.
Day 2: Museum Island and Royal Berlin
Today focuses on Berlin's cultural heritage - the UNESCO-listed Museum Island and the grandeur of the former Prussian kingdom. It's a day of world-class art and architecture.
Day 2: Art and Architecture
Museum Island
This UNESCO World Heritage site houses five world-class museums. Start with the Pergamon Museum for ancient wonders (Ishtar Gate, Pergamon Altar) and the Neues Museum for the famous bust of Nefertiti. The Museum Pass (£27) covers all five.
Lunch at Hackescher Markt
Exit Museum Island and walk to this lively square surrounded by restaurants and the famous Hackesche Hofe courtyards. These interconnected art nouveau courtyards house boutiques, cafes, and galleries.
Berlin Cathedral
Climb the dome of Berlin's largest church for panoramic city views. The ornate interior features the Hohenzollern crypt with 100 sarcophagi. The cathedral was badly damaged in WWII and only fully restored in 2002.
Unter den Linden Walk
Stroll west along Berlin's grand boulevard, passing Humboldt University, the State Opera, and grand embassies. End at Bebelplatz, site of the 1933 Nazi book burning, marked by a poignant underground memorial.
Reichstag Building
Visit the glass dome of Germany's parliament building. The dome represents transparency in government and offers stunning views over the city. Free entry but advance booking is essential - register online weeks ahead.
Dinner near Potsdamer Platz
This modern district offers diverse dining. For German classics, try Lindenbräu (in the Sony Center). For something upscale, The Grand serves new German cuisine. The area's neon lights create a futuristic atmosphere.
Berlin Welcome Card
The Welcome Card (£32 for 72 hours) includes public transport and up to 50% off attractions. Worth it if you're visiting Museum Island and using transport frequently. Buy at airport or train stations.
Day 3: Alternative Berlin
Your final day explores Berlin's creative, alternative side - street art, flea markets, and the neighbourhoods that define the city's contemporary identity.
Day 3: Creative Berlin
Turkish Market at Maybachufer
On Tuesdays and Fridays, this canal-side market in Kreuzberg brings Turkish and Middle Eastern culture to life. Fresh produce, spices, fabrics, and street food. Arrive early for the best atmosphere.
Street Art Tour in Kreuzberg
Kreuzberg is Berlin's street art capital. Join a guided tour (Alternative Berlin offers excellent ones) or self-guide using online maps. Don't miss the giant murals on Oranienstrasse and around Kottbusser Tor.
Lunch at Burgermeister
Berlin's most famous burger joint operates from a converted toilet beneath an elevated U-Bahn track. The burgers are excellent and the setting is pure Berlin. There's usually a queue, but it moves fast.
Tempelhof Field
Berlin's former airport is now an enormous public park. The runways are used for cycling, skating, and kite-flying. It's a unique urban space and a perfect afternoon retreat from sightseeing.
Charlottenburg Palace (Alternative: TV Tower)
For Prussian grandeur, visit Charlottenburg Palace and its gorgeous gardens. Alternatively, if you prefer views, the Fernsehturm (TV Tower) at Alexanderplatz offers Berlin's highest viewpoint with its revolving restaurant.
Farewell Dinner in Prenzlauer Berg
This gentrified neighbourhood offers excellent restaurants in beautiful 19th-century buildings. Try Konnopke's Imbiss for legendary currywurst, or sit-down dining at Zander or Mrs Robinson's.
Sunday Closures
Like most of Germany, shops close on Sundays. Markets, museums, restaurants, and tourist sites remain open, but don't plan retail shopping for Sunday. The Turkish Market only runs Tuesday and Friday.
Getting Around Berlin
Berlin is a large, spread-out city, but public transport makes everything accessible. The U-Bahn (underground), S-Bahn (overground), trams, and buses form an integrated network.
Transport Tips
Buy an AB zone ticket - it covers central Berlin. Single journeys cost £3, or get a day ticket (£8) or the Welcome Card. Children under 6 travel free. Validate tickets before boarding - plain-clothes inspectors issue hefty fines.
Berlin with Kids
Berlin is excellent for families. Parks are everywhere (try Tiergarten), public transport is pushchair-friendly, and museums often have children's programmes. The DDR Museum near Museum Island is interactive and engages all ages. Legoland Discovery Centre suits younger children.
What to Pack
Berlin dresses casually - you'll fit in better in trainers than heels. Layers work year-round as temperatures vary. Always carry a light rain jacket, even in summer.
Pack smart for Berlin with our comprehensive checklist covering everything from comfortable walking shoes to rain gear for those unpredictable weather days.
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