7 days in Berlin, Germany: What to see, eat and do. Full city guide
Berlin, the capital of Germany, is a vibrant and modern city with a rich history and diverse culture. This collection of art, music, and tradition is home to some of the world’s most famous attractions like the Brandenburg Gate, the Berlin Wall, and the Reichstag building. With its abundant green spaces, world-class museums, and delicious culinary scene, Berlin offers something for everyone.
Things to consider before arriving in Berlin
Affordable city: Travelers on a budget love Berlin for its reasonable prices in comparison to other major European capitals.
Public transportation: Berlin boasts an excellent and efficient public transportation system, making it easy to get around.
Long winters: Berlin can be quite cold and gray during the winter months, with shorter daylight hours.
As a city with a thriving art and music scene, a rich historical backdrop, and plenty of parks and outdoor activities, Berlin will appeal most to artists, history buffs, and nature lovers.
What to bring with you
When packing for Berlin, make sure to bring comfortable walking shoes, a water-resistant jacket, and a small daypack. Don’t forget to pack season-appropriate clothing, as Berlin’s weather can be unpredictable. And last but not least, carry a power adapter for your electronics.
Best time of the year to visit
The best time to visit Berlin is from May to September when the weather is pleasant, with mild temperatures and plenty of sunshine. During these months, the city comes alive with outdoor events and festivals, making it the perfect time to explore.
How to get into Berlin
1. By air: Berlin has two airports, Tegel (TXL) and Schönefeld (SXF), which serve a multitude of international and domestic flights. Both airports are well-connected to the city center by public transportation and taxis.
2. By train: Arriving in Berlin by train is easy thanks to its central location in Germany and Europe. Major train stations like Berlin Hauptbahnhof and Ostbahnhof connect Berlin with other German and European cities, including high-speed ICE trains.
3. By bus: Long-distance buses are another budget-friendly option for getting to Berlin. Companies like FlixBus and Eurolines provide services from various European cities to Berlin’s central bus station (ZOB).
7 Day City Guide Trip to Berlin, Germany
Day 1: Get to know the city
Start your trip by visiting the iconic Brandenburg Gate and the historic Reichstag building. Take a stroll through Tiergarten park, then walk along the popular Kurfürstendamm avenue for some shopping. For dinner, try some authentic German food at Maximilians.
Day 2: Berlin Wall and Museums
Visit the famous East Side Gallery, the largest remaining part of the Berlin Wall. Continue to the Checkpoint Charlie Museum to learn more about the history of the Cold War. Finish the day with a visit to the Museum Island, where you can see famous works of art like the bust of Nefertiti.
Day 3: Art and Alternative culture
Explore the hip neighborhood of Kreuzberg, known for its street art and alternative culture. Visit the Jewish Museum for a unique look into Jewish life in Germany. Make sure to check out the vibrant food scene in the area, and try some falafel at Mustafa’s.
Day 4: Day trip to Potsdam
Take a day trip to Potsdam, a nearby city with stunning palaces and gardens. Visit the Sanssouci Palace and the Cecilienhof Palace, where the Potsdam Conference was held at the end of World War II.
Day 5: Modern architecture and history
Visit the impressive Holocaust Memorial and the nearby Berliner Philharmonie. Get a glimpse of modern Berlin at Potsdamer Platz, then see the impressive Berlin Cathedral.
Day 6: Day trip to Dresden
Take a day trip to Dresden, a beautiful city known for its baroque architecture and rich cultural history. Visit the Frauenkirche and the Zwinger Palace, and make sure to try some of the local Saxon cuisine.
Day 7: Local Markets and Food
Spend your last day exploring the local markets, like the Mauerpark Flea Market or the Markthalle Neun. Try some street food, like currywurst or kebabs, and pick up some souvenirs before you head back to your hotel.
How to continue your travel after you have spent 7 days in Berlin
Take a train to Hamburg, a charming port city with beautiful architecture and a thriving music scene. Visit the Elbphilharmonie concert hall and the Miniatur Wunderland, the world’s largest model railway. Alternatively, head south to Munich, another vibrant German city with great museums, beautiful architecture and the famous Oktoberfest. Don’t miss the Marienplatz, the famous central square, and the beautiful Nymphenburg Palace.
