Start your Berlin tour with a walk to the iconic Brandenburg Gate, the most recognizable landmark of the German capital. Its historical significance dates back to the Cold War era, becoming a symbol of division and later of reunification. Next, head over to the Reichstag Building, the impressive parliamentary house. Take a guided tour to learn about the city's history, art, and architecture while enjoying magnificent views from the dome.
Visit the world-renowned Museum Island, a group of five museums located on the Spree River. Explore the vast collections of art, culture, and science from ancient to contemporary times. The most significant ones are the Pergamon Museum and the Neues Museum which houses the famous bust of Nefertiti. Across the river, don't miss the stunning Berlin Cathedral, a monumental Baroque church with breathtaking interior and views of the city from the dome.
Start your day exploring the Cold War history at the Checkpoint Charlie Museum, the former border crossing point between East and West Berlin. Discover the stories of escape attempts, espionage, and human rights violations through an extensive collection of artifacts and documents. Then, take a short walk to the Jewish Museum, one of the largest Jewish museums in Europe. Its architecture and exhibitions reflect the complex and diverse history of the Jewish community in Germany and beyond.
Discover the vivid street art scene of Berlin by visiting the East Side Gallery, a 1.3 km-long section of the Berlin Wall decorated with more than 100 murals by international artists. Take a stroll along the riverbank and enjoy the graffiti, bars, and cafes of the trendy Kreuzberg district. End your tour at the famous Markthalle, a food market with a variety of stalls offering local and international cuisine.
If you have more time, consider visiting the Berlin Zoo, the Tiergarten park, or taking a day trip to Potsdam or Dresden. For nightlife options, head to the areas of Mitte, Friedrichshain, or Neukölln. If you have less time, skip the Reichstag guided tour and the Jewish Museum. Alternatively, you can combine Museum Island with Berlin Cathedral on the same day. Check the opening and closing times of each attraction thoroughly, especially during the offseason.