Two-day shoestring budget itinerary in Berlin, Germany - featuring Hans Zimmer Concert at Mercedes Benz Arena

  • Day 1: Reichstag Building
    10 minutes (3.4 km) walk from the hotel

    The Reichstag Building, home to the German Parliament, is one of the most historic buildings in Berlin that has survived through wars and events. Visitors can book tours for free, and access a rooftop terrace with a stunning view of the city.

  • Day 1: Brandenburg Gate
    12 minutes (1.2 km) walk from the Reichstag Building

    The Brandenburg Gate, built in the 18th century, has become a symbol of peace and unity in Germany. Visitors can take pictures with the monument while learning about its history through free walking tours.

  • Day 1: Charlottenburg Palace
    34 minutes (6 km) via public transportation from Brandenburg Gate

    The Charlottenburg Palace, the largest palace in Berlin, is where visitors can learn about the history of Prussia and the royal family. Admission to the palace gardens are free, however, paid guided tours are required to access the palace's interior.

  • Day 1: Berliner Dom
    26 minutes (6 km) via public transportation from Charlottenburg Palace

    The Berliner Dom, a stunning Baroque cathedral located on Museum Island, is the largest church in Berlin. Visitors can attend daily services or take paid guided tours to learn more about the church's history.

  • Day 1: Hans Zimmer Concert at Mercedes Benz Arena
    21 minutes (8 km) via public transportation from Berliner Dom

    End the day with the Hans Zimmer Concert at Mercedes Benz Arena. The arena is renowned for hosting world-class concerts and events, and is a must-go for music lovers.

  • Day 2: Berlin Wall Memorial
    19 minutes (5.2 km) via public transportation from the hotel

    The Berlin Wall Memorial, located along the infamous wall's former death strip, is a tribute to people who lost their lives trying to cross the wall. Visitors can also see historical artifacts and learn about the wall's impact on Germany's history.

  • Day 2: Alexanderplatz
    13 minutes (3 km) via public transportation from the Berlin Wall Memorial

    Alexanderplatz, known as the heart of Berlin, is a bustling square in the city centre with various restaurants, shops, and street performers. Visitors can also see the iconic Fernsehturm (TV Tower), the tallest structure in Germany.

  • Day 2: Holocaust Memorial
    10 minutes (1 km) walk from Alexanderplatz

    The Holocaust Memorial, officially known as the Memorial to the Murdered Jews of Europe, is a tribute to the victims of the Holocaust. Visitors can walk through the maze-like structure to experience its poignant and powerful message.

  • Day 2: Checkpoint Charlie
    11 minutes (1.4 km) walk from Holocaust Memorial

    Checkpoint Charlie, a guardhouse during the Cold War, is now a fascinating museum that showcases stories of the people who attempted to cross the Berlin Wall. Visitors can also get a photo with actors dressed as soldiers.

Time and Costs Estimates

  • Reichstag Building (1-2 hours, Free)
  • Brandenburg Gate (30 minutes, Free)
  • Charlottenburg Palace (2-3 hours, €17-€21)
  • Berliner Dom (1 hour, €7-€18)
  • Hans Zimmer Concert at Mercedes Benz Arena (2-3 hours, €80-€100)
  • Berlin Wall Memorial (1-2 hours, Free)
  • Alexanderplatz (1-2 hours, Free)
  • Holocaust Memorial (1 hour, Free)
  • Checkpoint Charlie Museum (1-2 hours, €14)

  • Total Estimated Costs: €118-€153

Transportation

It is easy to navigate the city with the Berlin U-Bahn, S-Bahn, buses, and trams. The most cost-efficient way to travel is to buy a day ticket for €8.90 which offers travel on all public transport within zones A, B and C. Taxis and ride-sharing services are also available with an average cost of €1.20-€2.20 per kilometre.

Useful Tips

If you have an extra day, visit the East Side Gallery, the world's longest open-air gallery that runs along the former Berlin Wall. If you have less time, consider dropping Checkpoint Charlie Museum as it is less impactful than other points of interest. Remember to wear comfortable shoes and pack snacks/water to save money.

Airports

Berlin Tegel Airport (TXL) is the main international airport in Berlin, located about 8 km from the city center. The airport mainly serves European destinations and other German cities. Alternatively, Berlin Schönefeld Airport (SXF) is a smaller airport situated south of Berlin that mainly serves budget airlines.

0