From palace hopping to sweeping views from the third tallest building in the European Union, the bustling city of Berlin has something to offer for travelers on any budget. Below you can find insight into the top 11 things to do in Berlin, Germany that should be included on every itinerary: where to stay, where to sightsee, and where to eat — no matter how short or long your stay.
1. Book a Stay at The Grand Hyatt Berlin
When thinking of things to do in Berlin, Germany, does staying at a five-star luxury hotel come to mind? lodging experience in the heart of Berlin’s Mitte district? In Potsdamer Platz, Grand Hyatt Berlin offers sweeping views of the city skyline and a lush rooftop spa. In addition to the spa, other amenities include:
– chic and elegant upscale rooms;
– free WiFi;
– 55-inch flat-screen TV’s in each room;
– a minibar in each room
– luxury local bath amenities; and
– the option of room service.
If you prefer to upgrade, suites include all of the above as well as kitchenettes, access to the club lounge and spa, and 24/7 room service.
2. Relax with Spa Services Offered at Grand Hyatt Berlin
After check-in, take the private elevator to the top floor to access the Club Olympus Spa and Fitness center for a sweat session at the gym or for an award-winning treatment. While I chose to experience a body wax and eyebrow thread, other services offered include:
– facials;
– full or partial body massages; and
– mani/pedi packages.
A full day admission pass includes a healthy Bento lunch box, plush robe, towel service, and unlimited tea, coffee, and water. For a full list of Club Olympus Spa’s services and amenities, click here.
3. Indulge in Global Cuisines at Grand Hyatt’s Restaurants
After a relaxing day at the spa, take the elevator down to the main lobby. Here, you can also indulge in unique global dining experiences at the Grand Hyatt Berlin.
First, Tizian, is an cozy Italian eatery with a crackling fire place and an impressive list of fine wines. This lies adjacent to the main lobby.
Take a few steps down the hall to Grand Hyatt Berlin’s renowned restaurant, Vox. In addition to international wines and cocktails, enjoy innovative Asian cuisine made from regional ingredients. This includes sushi, sashimi, and premium sake. To satisfy your sweet tooth, order Vox’s stuffed “Chocolate Ball” filled with banana, passion fruit, peanut, and chili. Pour on a generous amount of warm chocolate sauce and watch it open before your eyes!
For a quick night cap, step across the hall to the Jamboree Bar. Order a premium craft cocktail while you take in the electronic tunes and edgy vibes. The “Golden Colada” that is served in a copper pineapple is a perfect choice.
In the morning, step across the hall to Vox to make yourself a plate (or three) from Grand Hyatt’s breakfast buffet. Guests choose from a variety of egg dishes, crisp bacon, cured meats, fresh fruits, cereals, cheeses, and both grilled and raw veggies.
4. Explore Berlin’s largest surviving royal palace
Constructed at the end of the 17th century, the lavish Baroque and rococo style of the
Charlottenburg Palace is one of the most frequently visited palaces in Germany. It is rightly named
in honour of Sophie Charlotte, the first Queen consort in Prussia and wife of King Friedrich
I. It now stands as the oldest (and most beautiful) palace in Berlin. Tour the New Wing of the
palace an hour before closing time. Cost to tour is $10 Euros.
The staterooms — including the stunning rococo ballroom (Golden Gallery) — will be essentially empty, for the perfect shot. In good weather, stroll through the English-style Palace Park located on the grounds. Fresh floral scents and views of the mausoleum the Belvedere tea house are worth it.
Pro Tip: Prior to your visit, invest in a Berlin Welcome Card from VisitBerlin. This card provides free public transportation, special discounts to museums and parks, and hundreds of restaurant, sightseeing, and shopping recommendations.
5. Take in Panoramic at the Famous TV Tower
To take in some of the most sweeping views of Germany’s capitol city, the Berlin TV Tower
won’t disappoint. Known as the “Fernsehturm,” the structure was built in the 1960’s and used to be the tallest in the world. It now stands as the third-tallest structure in the European Union.
High-speed elevators take visitors straight to the top. Here, grab a cocktail on the observation deck at Bar 203. Afterwards, follow the staircase up one level to the Sphere Restaurant for a quick bite and the best views.
How to Purchase Tickets:
Tickets are available online or at the ticket counters and machines on location. It is recommended to buy the “Fast Track” ticket in advance of your visit. Arrive when the tower first opens to beat the lines at the observation deck. To view ticket prices and hours of operation, click here.
Pro Tip: Don’t have time to visit the TV Tower? Head to the grassy rooftop terrace at the Grand Hyatt Berlin’s Club Olympus Spa for a view of the TV Tower and a sunbathing session.
6. Stroll Down the Iconic East Side Gallery
6. Stroll Down the Iconic East Side GalleryIt’s still possible to take a step back in time during a journey down Berlin’s East Side Gallery. Located near the Ostbahnhof railway station on the banks of the Spree river, this open-air gallery is the longest in the world at 1316 meters. Since opening on September 28, 1990, 118 artists from 21 countries have contributed works of art to its storied slabs.
While there are a number of captivating works of art showcased, the most iconic remains Dmitri Vrubel’s “Fraternal Kiss” painting. You’ll find this painting 200 meters to the left of the Mercedes Benz Arena.
7. Grab Traditional Currywurst at Curry 61
Most claim that it’s not a trip to Berlin without a round or two of currywurst — and that’s the honest truth. There are plenty of roadside street vendors and takeout restaurants where you can try this traditional German fast-food delicacy. However, my favorite is Curry 61.
For those of you who are unfamiliar with what currywurst actually is, it’s steamed-then-
fried pork sausage. To take it a step further, it is cut into bite-sized chunks and generously topped with curry seasoned ketchup sauce.
Curry 61 offers the signature pork sausage dish, as well as a vegan version that is equally as delicious. The best part? It can be made extra spicy! A hearty serving with crisp fries and an ice cold Coca Cola is the perfect lunch. In fact, in costs less than 10 euros.
8.Take in the History of Brandenburg Gate
We couldn’t write an article recommending the top 10 things to do in Berlin without including a visit to the iconic Brandenburg Gate. While it is usually the first stop listed on any itinerary (and for good reason), we’ll tell you exactly why it should be there.
A pinnacle of the Berlin’s turbulent past, it is the city’s only surviving gate. To this day, it signifies a unified Germany after the fall of the Berlin Wall. More than 200-years-old, it’s glowing sandstone continues to represent the most beautiful Neo-classical architecture. The grounds of the Brandenburg Gate never close, so arrive to the location a few minutes before sunrise to enjoy the views without the crowds.
9. Satisfy Your Sweet tooth at Brammibal’s Donuts
Want to satisfy a sweet tooth without the added sugars and fats? Brammibal’s Donuts are a great compromise. A vegan bakery specialising in vegan donuts and coffee, the bakery rotates its flavours each season. Order staple flavours like cherry-filled “Frankfurterkatz” donut and the “Irish coffee” donut soaked in coffee liquor.
Pro Tip: Brammibals is located directly across the street from the side entrance to the Grand Hyatt Berlin on Alte Potsdamer Street.
10. Sip a Tiger Nut Milk Latte from Hermann’s
Some may think that coffee is simply coffee in any form, but not when it comes to the Tiger Nut Milk Latte from Hermann’s in Mitte. Soldiers during WWII would carry the vitamin E and iron-packed African superfood in their rescue packs.
Today, Hermann’s uses the gluten-free veggie to make lattes and other milk-based beverages. Steamed and topped with fresh ground cinnamon, we think it’s the sweetest perfect mid-morning pick-me-up.
11. Catch a Sunset at Teufelsberg Spy Station
A 20-minute drive outside of Berlin’s city center, a golf ball-like structure interrupts the city’s skyline. Once serving as an American spy station during the Cold War, Teufelsberg today stands in ruins, though still hauntingly beautiful.
The now abandoned location began as a man-made mound of rubble and dirt. However, in
the early 1950’s it was transformed into a listening station to intercept espionage communications. It was finally made into an air traffic control center until 1999.
Today, it is a popular destination for tourists, photographers, and social media influencers hoping to catch a sunset from one of the property’s many radar domes. To round out your Berlin adventure, arrive at Teufelsberg an hour before sunset to claim your spot for the perfect view.
Conclusion:
With so much history, architecture, international food, and breathtaking gardens and parks, it can be difficult to decide what to include in your Berlin itinerary. If you’re a fist-time visitor, hopefully the above tips for the top 11 things to do in Berlin serves as a helpful guide for your upcoming trip. Make sure you check back in the coming weeks for more Germany destinations guides and reviews.
***This post was created in sponsorship with Grand Hyatt Berlin and Visit Berlin.
The Grand Hyatt Berlin looks amazing! Sadly I didn’t experience any of these while I was there except the Brandenburg Gate. I need to plan a return trip soon!
It was truly a luxury experience! I would go back 100 percent. Many happy memories made in Berlin. 🙂 I hope you get to go back soon!
So beautiful I can’t wait to one day visit my brother in laws fiancé there!
The spa at The Grand Hyatt looks amazing, how I’d love to be there now. I am really hoping to be able to visit Berlin soon, it looks like such a great city.
I really enjoyed Berlin back when I was in Germany! Maybe I could pay this hotel a visit next time 🙂
Duuuuude that’s such a nice hotel!! I’ve never been to Germany before so Berlin is definitely on the list!
Berlin is such an iconic city and yet I still haven’t been! Criminal really. Saving this fab post for when I do go. 🙂
Great tips! I NEED that Tiger Nut Milk Latte in my life! Berlin is on our list – I’ve only been to Munich and have much more to see. The palace looks fabulous!
Great info and things to see in Berlin! The Grand Hyatt looks like an amazing place to stay. I lived in Germany for 4 months but I never made it to Berlin. Now I need to go!
The currywurst and the nut milk latte look AMAZING. I can’t wait to try these!
Wow Saying Berlin is beautiful is an understatement. I love the gorgeous photos and hope to explore there some day!
It looks like you had a great time in Berlin! I love the Charlottenburg Palace and if you are ever around during Christmas, you need to check out the Christmas market right in front!
I love Berlin! I’d usually go there every May for a big annual international music event, but obviously couldn’t go this year :-S With each visit, I appreciate the city even more. There are so many things on your list I haven’t done though! The former Teufelsberg spy station has been on my list for years, but it always seems so far from the city centre and until recently it also wasn’t really clear if you could visit legally or not. But it’s definitely something I’d like to do! As an alternative, we went on an underground tour last year, quite literally as it was in the secret nuclear war bunkers of several metro stations which you would never know about otherwise, really cool and also a great tip 🙂
I agree Berlin is the best place for currywurst
The hotel looks fabulous and so does the food. I’d love to visit Berlin and the history would be one of the main reasons. I’ve done city passes in a couple of places so I’m sure the Berlin pass would be helpful too
I LOVE Berlin! It seems like there is so much to do in this city. If I go back I would definitely love to visit the Charlottenburg palace, it looks beautiful! Also would definitely love to stay in the Hyatt – a much-needed upgrade over a hostel haha.
I always love reading your food recommendations. When I travel, I always eat at the first (and cheapest) place I find so its fun to see some fancy options 🙂 This looks like a wonderful time!
I have only been to Munich, but it was enough to spark my interest to explore other parts of Germany. Berlin has been on my list and the palace and tv tower look amazing. Cannot wait to explore that city. Such a great post. Thanks for the tips.
It makes me want to visit Berlin, it looked like a beautiful trip!!
I need to get back to Germany just for Brammibal’s Donuts! I haven’t heard of them before, but it sounds amazing!
This sounds amazing! I’d love to visit Berlin one day, I’ll definitely be coming back to these recommendations, Thanks for sharing!
Berlin is such an amazing city! I spent a few days there last year!! xxx
It is a great city! I found something new to do each time I went! I spent a lot of time there while getting my European visa 🙂
Goodness, that pool looks amazing! Their restaurant sounds so good too (I’d love to try that chocolate ball!). It’d be awesome to get to visit someday! *-*
I LOVE Berlin, This post makes me want to go back so badly, I haven’t been in over 10 years.
Great article! I’m German and here Berlin’s tagline is “arm aber sexy (poor but sexy)”. This implies that Berlin’s image is rather poor and run down and offers a cheap and “alternative” travel experience. However, your guide is pretty much the opposite of this cliché and shows us how to experience Berlin in a more luxurious way. Thanks for giving an insight into the Hyatt Hotel and showing Berlin from a whole different perspective!
Berlin is such an interesting city. It looks like you really enjoyed yourself and were spoilt at the hotel.
Well…. now I’m hungry! I especially want some of that Currywurst at Curry 61. Saving this blog for my next Berlin vacay.
Love your list. I have been in Berlin couple of times and it seems like every time I can do something completely new. Next time I have to get the view from the tv tower
Love reading you list of things to do in Berlin. The stay at Grand hyatt looks amazing. Would love to visit it some day, great travel tips in the post.
I have been to Berlin three times, I really love this city! It’s the first time that I hear about the spy station though! It looks really cool!
Grand Hyatt indeed looks grand! Had been to Berlin many years back and loved the vibe of the city.
I visited Berlin a year ago and I would love to go back. My expectations of the city weren’t the highest, but when I got there, I realised it was a great city with many things to offer. The Grand Hyatt seems to be amazing. I may need to stay there next time 🙂
Love this post Alexandra, especially the food recommendations. Curry wurst is definitely one of the specialties and it’s so good!
Great post! I can’t wait to go back to Berlin and check off your list! 🙂
Your photos are gorgeous! I love Berlin, my sister lived there for a decade and I used to visit all the time – still missed a lot of these places though!
Thanks so much, Lora!! I just love Berlin. I feel like it is a very underrated city! So many great places to eat, nightlife, sightseeing…the list goes on. I hope you get to go back!
I’ve heard so many good things about Berlin–particularly that it’s a “cool” city. I wanna go to Charlottenburg Palace !
Hi Leah! I hope you get to make it to Berlin some day. You would love Charlottenburg Palace! You could get some great photos 🙂
I LOVE Berlin! It is such a cool city. We were there for New Years Eve and it was an awesome place to spend New Years Eve.
Ohhhh, I was in Berlin 10 years ago and I hink I have to revisit 🙂 Great article and ideas, especially the Teufelsberg – didn’t know about this place and I’m so grateful to get to know it.
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I love Berlin! There’s so much the city has to offer. From the history and museums, to the various neighborhoods, to the nightlife, and amazing people, Berlin has something for every traveler. I spent 6 months living in the city and I miss it everyday.
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