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Discovering what to do in Berlin within a single day is a captivating experience. Even with limited time, exploring the city is a must, as this one-day itinerary showcases the top attractions, restaurants, and bars that make Berlin one of Germany's premier tourist destinations.
Before You Go: Essential Tips for a Great Adventure
Before you head into the heart of Berlin, you should know what you need to know:
Photo by Gilly via Unsplash
When to Visit Berlin
Summer
Warm, dry summer days are ideal for exploring the outdoors. In the sun, you can enjoy the season in parks and beer gardens.
Winter
In December, indulge in festive activities like sipping mulled wine, shopping, and relishing the vibrant Christmas markets – some of the enchanting things to do in Berlin in December.
Fall
Before the weather changes, you can visit the Oktoberfest in September, although it is smaller than Munich's celebrations.
Spring
Locals celebrate the warmer weather in green spaces, creating an ideal setting for exploring outdoor attractions.
How to Get to Berlin
Airplane
- Two airports: Berlin Tegel Airport (largest) and Brandenburg (BER) Airport.
- From Tegel Airport: TXL Express Bus, Express Bus X9, Bus 109, or expensive taxi.
- From Brandenburg Airport (27 km): Private transfer, Airport Express Train, various trains, metro S-Bahn, or taxis. For a safe door-to-door experience, we suggest you pre-book private transfers in advance.
Bus
- Cheaper but longer journey.
- The bus from Brandenburg Airport to Berlin centre is unpleasant due to the many stops and shared seating.
Train
- Domestic and international connections.
- During rush hour, trains can be crowded and pickpockets can take advantage of this. Be careful with your personal belongings.
Private Transfers
For a touch of luxury and convenience, consider a private transfer with AirportTransfer.com. There are several reasons to choose private transfer. It guarantees a stress-free and comfortable journey, especially if public transport is uncomfortable. A private coach transfer is convenient for groups and people with lots of luggage. If you arrive late and feel uncomfortable using public transport, a private taxi transfer is safe and reliable.
With our Berlin Airport Hotel Transfers, our friendly team of experienced English-speaking AT drivers will wait for you at the airport, ready to assist you with your luggage and ensure a comfortable transfer to your hotel. All you have to do is enter your hotel and airport details and you will be presented with a wide range of vehicles perfectly suited to your needs.
With airport pick-up service, at airporttransfer.com you're ready to explore the perfect day in Berlin with its iconic sights and vibrant neighbourhoods, creating memories that resonate with the city's rich history and contemporary allure.
What to Pack for Berlin
A trip to Berlin, a city with a blend of contemporary and historical aspects, requires careful packing for a problem-free visit.
- Light Layers: Pack light layers to adapt to Berlin's ever-changing weather, perfect for strolling, exploring, or dining in the city.
- Rain Jacket or Umbrella: Buy a jacket/umbrella to protect yourself from the rain and still enjoy Berlin's beauty.
- Guidebook: For the best Berlin travel guide like Berlin's history, culture and monuments, take your guidebook not to miss these remarkable sights.
- Cash: Take some cash with you for a richer experience in Berlin's local shops and cafes, where cash is preferred.
- Plug adapter: Remember to use a plug adapter for devices in Germany, as the plug style is different from the US and UK.
- Berlin Travel Pass: The Berlin WelcomeCard offers unlimited public transport in the ABC zones, including the city centre and attractions. Choose a 2-6 day card.
So how do you spend a day in Berlin with your essentials in tow and your taste buds ready for 24 unforgettable hours?
24 Hours in Berlin: How Do You Spend a Day in Berlin?
Take a one-day travel in Berlin itinerary, where the interplay of history and modernity forms a rich tapestry of culture, art, and culinary delights. In just 24 hours, our itinerary will unveil the essence of this dynamic city.
One Day Berlin Itinerary: Morning // Coffee and Breakfast
With the sun rising over Berlin, these breakfast havens form the starting point for delving into the flavours and unique attractions of this exciting city in our 1-day in Berlin itinerary.
Frühstück 3000: A Breakfast Festival
Location: See on Map | Opening Hours: Monday - Sunday 9 a.m. - 4 p.m.
Begin your Berlin morning at this beloved breakfast spot, Frühstück 3000, in Schöneberg and Kreuzberg. With modern twists on classics like farmer's breakfast and Eggs Benedict, the menu offers sweet treats and customizable extras for a delightful start to your day.
Suicide Sue: Sandwiches Beyond Imagination
Location: See on Map | Opening Hours: Monday - Friday 9 a.m. - 4 p.m., Saturday 9 a.m. - 4 p.m., Sunday 10 a.m. - 4 p.m.
Despite its mysterious name, Suicide Sue is a sandwich revelation, featuring unique combinations like goat cheese with rocket pesto or cheese with honey mustard sauce. Whether you opt for a quick bite on the go or a leisurely sit-down, Suicide Sue promises a taste sensation that defies its ominous moniker.
Maître Münch: A Lilac-Hued Breakfast Retreat
Location: See on Map | Opening Hours: Tuesday – Sunday 10 a.m. – 6 p.m.
Gerhard Münch owns a café called Café Maître Münch near Charlottenburg S-Bahn station. Here you can enjoy freshly baked pastries and a breakfast buffet of cheese, sausages and cakes. It's a great way to start your day in Berlin.
One Day Berlin Itinerary: Afternoon // A Walking Tour of Berlin's Highlights
As the shadows get longer, these landmarks echo the stories etched into Berlin's streets, monuments and historical wonders.
Berlin Wall Memorial at Bernauer Str: Echoes of Division
Location: See on Map / Entry Fee: Free / Timings: Always Open until 10 p.m.
Start your afternoon tour at the Berlin Wall Memorial, a reminder of the city's past division. The last section of the Wall, 1.4km along Bernauer Strasse, offers a glimpse of life on both sides. Interpretive panels explain the history and impact of this Cold War artefact, as well as efforts to escape.
Berlin Cathedral: Architectural Grandeur Unveiled
Location: See on Map / Entry Fee: € 10 (Adults), € 7.50 (Students) / Timings: Varied
The Berlin Cathedral, which stands magnificently above Museum Island, tells the story of an architectural masterpiece that began in 1465. This visual feast, which began as a little parish church, now houses a magnificent Dome organ with over 7000 pipes.
Memorial to The Murdered Jews of Europe: A Sobering Silence
Location: See on Map / Entry Fee: Free / Timings: Always Open
The Holocaust Memorial is a sobering reminder of the worst period in human history. A field of 2771 grey rectangular blocks honor the Jews who were silently murdered by the Nazis.
Jewish Museum: Architectural Gem with Historical Echoes
Location: See on Map / Entry Fee: € 3 / Timings: 10 a.m. to 10 p.m.
Daniel Libeskind's Jewish Museum showcases German-Jewish history: exhibitions, a lightning-fast structure and details that illustrate the impact of the Holocaust.
Museum Island: Enriching Sightseeing Adventure
Location: See on Map / Entry Fee: € 24 / Timings: 1 p.m. to 7 p.m. (Closed on Sat & Sun)
Five museums on Museum Island (Pergamon Museum - Bode Museum - Neues Museum - Alte Nationalgalerie - Altes Museum) on the banks of the river Spree house objects and artefacts dating back thousands of years. The oldest, the Altes Museum, houses a private collection of Prussian emperors.
Brandenburg Gate: Symbol of Unity and Resilience
Location: See on Map / Entry Fee: Free / Timings: Varied
See how a once-divided city has changed at the famous Brandenburg Gate. Originally an Iron Curtain sign, it now represents harmony and peace. See Berlin's tenacity and walk in the footsteps of important historical moments by visiting this historic location.
Charlottenburg Palace Gardens: Tranquil Escape in Baroque Splendor
Location: See on Map / Entry Fee: Free / Timings: 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. (Closed on Mon)
Take a break and enjoy the tranquillity of Charlottenburg Palace Gardens, a Baroque oasis dating from 1695. Take in the manicured landscaping, stroll around the carp pond and marvel at the architectural wonders of the palace. A tranquil haven, especially in summer.
Alexanderplatz: The Pulse of Berlin's Mitte District
Location: See on Map / Entry Fee: Free / Timings: Always Open
Finish your afternoon at Berlin's bustling centre, Alexanderplatz. Feel the pulse of the city, which is home to famous buildings like the Alexa retail mall and the 365-meter television tower. See how Berlin's essence is defined by the intersection of history, political unrest, and social progress.
East Side Gallery: Art Along the Wall
Location: See on Map / Entry Fee: Free / Timings: 24/7
Round off your day with a visit to the East Side Gallery, the famous section of the Berlin Wall adorned with vibrant artwork. At 1.3km long, it is the world's largest open-air gallery, with paintings celebrating the reunification of Germany while acknowledging the tragic past of the Wall.
One Day Berlin Itinerary: Evening // Gastronomic Feast and Berlin's Nightlife
As the Berlin skyline takes on the warm hues of sunset, our journey through this energetic city moves into the evening - a time for gastronomic delights and a chance to join in Berlin's ever-active nightlife.
Schnitzelei: A Cut Above the Rest
Location: See on Map
The ultimate schnitzel at Schnitzelei. Two locations, Mitte and Charlottenburg, take this dish to the next level. Come experience the crispy perfection and relish the spices that make Schnitzelei a destination for schnitzel lovers.
Gaststätte Sophieneck: Tradition in Every Bite
Location: See on Map
Visit Sophieneck for a traditional German bar experience. Located in Mitte, it represents German tradition. Take in the atmosphere while enjoying hearty German fare.
Lemke: Brewing Excellence with Culinary Mastery
Location: See on Map
Lemke expertly blends a delicious meal with the craft of brewing. Lemke offers artisan beers and a wide variety of food to customers at its two sites in Mitte and one in Charlottenburg.
Berlin Nightlife: Becketts Kopf, Bar 3, Würgeengel
As night falls, Berlin unveils its vibrant nightlife, where things to do in Berlin at night take centre stage. Immerse yourself in the electrifying atmosphere.
Becketts Kopf: Speakeasy Elegance
Location: See on Map / Entry: Reservation Recommended
Start at Becketts Kopf in Prenzlauer Berg. Try the Aviation cocktail and let the barman create a personalised drink for you.
Bar 3: Cozy Haven in Mitte
Location: See on Map / Entry: Casual
Located on Torstrasse, Bar 3 is a popular hangout for Mitte locals. Enjoy Kölsch beer and house wine while relaxing in the cosy atmosphere. It's the perfect place to meet locals and visitors.
Würgeengel: A Sultry Nightcap
Location: See on Map / Entry: Casual
Spend the night at Würgeengel, a restaurant inspired by Luis Buñuel's film The Exterminating Angel. Soak up the ambience with a final drink, a fitting end to your Berlin nightlife, a traditional cocktail or a local beer.
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