Berlin, the vibrant capital of Germany, is a city where history and modernity intertwine at every corner. From iconic symbols of unity to stunning architectural masterpieces, Berlin offers a rich tapestry of landmarks that reflect its dynamic past and progressive present. Whether you're walking through the remnants of the Berlin Wall, admiring the grandeur of Prussian palaces, or taking in panoramic views from the tallest tower in the city, each site tells a story that’s uniquely Berlin. In this article, we take you on a journey through 10 must-see landmarks that capture the essence of this extraordinary city.
1. Reichstag
The unique walk-in glass dome of the Reichstag lets you literally stand on the heads of the politicians. You also get a great view of the surrounding sights and the hustle and bustle of the city. You will find many government buildings worth seeing around the Reichstag, such as the German Chancellery.
2. Brandenburg Gate
It is the Landmark of the city and Berlin’s symbol of reunification: the Brandenburg Gate. It was built in the year 1791. A magnificent square was laid out in front of the Brandenburg Gate, the Pariser Platz, where world famous buildings like the historic Hotel Adlon Kempinski or the Academy of Arts are located today. Visit the Max Liebermann Haus next to the Brandenburg Gate, which is dedicated to the life and work of the great Berlin Impressionist.
3. Berlin TV Tower
The Berlin TV Tower with 368 metres height is the tallest building in Berlin. Built in the 1960s, it offers you a unique 360° panorama over the city. The television tower is located nearby Alexanderplatz, the centre of old East Berlin. You must not miss the World Clock there with 146 international locations.
4. Kurfürstendamm
From the Kaiser Wilhelm Memorial Church on Breitscheidplatz to Berlin's posh residential neighbourhood on Halensee, the legendary Kurfürstendamm stretches all the way: Berlin's most popular shopping mile, where the most prestigious brands and major fashion chains are located. The KaDeWe, the largest department store on mainland Europe, the stylish shopping centre Bikini Berlin, and also numerous individual shops set between small, fine restaurants in the side streets are all in the immediate vicinity.
5. Museum Island
Berlin’s world famous Museum Island is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Five large museums present more than 6,000 years of art and cultural history: the Alte Museum, the Neue Museum, the Alte Nationalgalerie, the Bode Museum and the Pergamonmuseum. The impressive collections and exhibitions and the magnificent architecture of the buildings guarantee a unique experience.
6. Humboldt Forum
The Humboldt Forum opposite Berlin's Museum Island is Berlin's forum for art, culture and science. Behind the reconstructed façades of the former Berlin City Palace, a wide range of exhibitions and the world-famous collections of the Ethnological Museum and the Museum of Asian Art await you. Just a few steps away: the Friedrichswerder Church. Built by Schinkel, it is now a museum that displays sculptures of classicism in the neo-Gothic church interior.
7. Schloss Charlottenburg
To the west of the city and easily accessible lies the magnificent Schloss Charlottenburg. Built around 1700 by the Prussian head of state Friedrich I for his beloved wife, who was much admired by the people, Queen Sophie Charlotte, it lies in the middle of vast, picturesque castle grounds directly on the River Spree. Revel in the magnificent halls of Prussian rococo and experience the romantic atmosphere of the park - at any time of year!
8. Berlin Wall Memorial
The Berlin Wall Memorial is located on the Bernauer Straße. The large area houses an outdoor exhibition, a documentation centre, the memorial to the victims of the division and the Chapel of Reconciliation. An originally preserved section of the wall with a watchtower shows you the former border fortifications. You can also visit the famous East Side Gallery: At more than 1,300 metres, it is the longest preserved section of the wall. After the fall of the Wall, it was painted by 118 artists from 21 countries.
9. Gendarmenmarkt
Very close to Friedrichstraße, the exclusive shopping street in Berlin-Mitte, is one of the most beautiful squares in Berlin: the Gendarmenmarkt. With the Konzerthaus Berlin designed by Schinkel as well as the German Cathedral and the French Cathedral, there are three architectural and cultural highlights of the capital over here, which invite you to first-class concerts and exhibition visits.
10. Victory Column
The Berlin Victory Column is one of the most famous landmarks of the German capital. The 67 metre high column, crowned by the golden Berlin Angel of Peace, stands in the middle of the Tiergarten park. The platform offers you a magnificent view over the parkland, Schloss Bellevue and over entire Berlin. The Victory Column was erected in the 19th century and was originally a reminder of Germany's wars of unification. Today it has become a symbol of peace.
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