Places to Visit in Berlin

A segment of the wall can be found in an intact condition in the eastern part of the city along the River Spree. This part of the wall has been preserved like a gallery. It has beautiful murals drawn on it, some with and some without political connotations. It is also known as the East Side Gallery.

Popularised as one of the most iconic monuments in Berlin, the Reichstag is steeped in history. It was burnt and gutted by the collapse of the Berlin Wall and was rebuilt later. Today, it serves as a house to German parliament, the Bundestag. Atop the structure there is a beautiful glass dome accessible by elevator which offers beautiful panoramic views of the city.

No trip to Berlin is complete without a visit to the Archenhold Observatory. It is home to the world’s longest refracting telescope at an astounding length of 21 metres. Other attractions here include a 500 mm reflecting telescope as well as a 130 tonne historical telescope.

The Berlin Zoo is a treat for kids and adults alike. It is the biggest and most popular zoo in all of Germany. Lying in the centre of the city, the zoo was home to Knut, a polar bear and BaoBao, a panda, both of whom have now passed away. Today the zoo houses hundreds of species of animals such as lions, kangaroos, ostriches, bears, koalas, giraffes, elephants, boas, etc. The animals are kept in sections that are designed to resemble their natural habitat and there are several interactive exhibits. The Berlin Aquarium is a part of the Zoo but can be accessed separately too. A large variety of fishes, crocodiles, etc. can be seen here.

The Holocaust was one of the darkest phases in German history. However, the city of Berlin does not shy away from it. This underground museum shows the torture and terrorisation that the Jews suffered in Nazi Germany. The artwork is grim but beautiful and intricate, making it a must-visit spot for all tourist.

One of the most famous museums in Berlin, the PergamonMuseum gives the contemporary tourist a fascinating insight into the ancient world. The cultures of the Middle East, Rome, Greece and Babylon are depicted here via art pieces, sculptures and murals. The museum is divided into three distinctive sections.

This landmark church was bombed out and then restricted later. It now towers above the city buzzing with activity. A hall of worship was added in later years and has an amazing ‘floating’ Jesus.

This synagogue was built sometime in the 19th century in the predominantly Jewish part of the city. At the time, it was the biggest synagogue in the city. It was destroyed as a result of the Second World War and was reconstructed after the demolition of the Berlin Wall. Today, it documents all aspects of Jewish life.

Berlin is a city that is buzzing with people involved in performing arts. One must sample local theatre, opera, musical performances and films while in Berlin. Catching a play at Deutsches Theatre should be on the itinerary of every visitor. For film lovers, planning a trip during one of the biggest film festivals in the world, The Berlin Film Festival, is ideal. Also, the Berlin Residence Orchestra is well-known for their soulful melodies. Book well in advance to avoid disappointment.

This is Berlin’s oldest public park and has a couple of man-made hills. The park consists of different sections. There is a memorial on communism, entertainment and theme parks for kids as well as large lawns perfect for lounging around!

Large departmental stores, plush shopping malls, quaint souvenir stores, exquisite boutiques and cheap second hand stores co-exist in harmony. Depending on which area of Berlin you are staying in, you can find a lot of shopping options nearby by searching the internet or asking your hotel for information.