Perhaps unsurprisingly, Berlin is the most visited city in the beautiful nation of Germany.
With a turbulent history waiting to be explored but an electric, modern energy to enjoy, this sensational European capital is a location not to be missed.
Discover the stories behind the Berlin Wall, admire the Brandenburg Gate and marvel at the many other landmarks studded around the city. Then immerse yourself in its vibrant artistic, cultural and food and drink scenes.
This is a place that refuses to be pinned down, but some things simply can't be missed. We've compiled an essential guide to the best things to do in Berlin, to get you started on your adventure.
The Berlin Wall
If you're looking to get to the heart of Berlin's past, then the perfect place to begin is at the various sites dedicated to telling the story of the Berlin Wall. The East Side Gallery was once part of the barricade that divided the city into two, and at 1.3 kilometres is the longest open-air gallery in the world.
Park up nearby and take your time studying the world-famous works and murals adorning the structure. One of the closest and most practical parking options is the APAG Parkhaus East Side Mall on Helen-Ernst-Straße.
The East Side Gallery is protected by memorial status, such is its importance, and undergoes regular restorations to preserve it.
Once you've discovered a slice of the city's divided history and the Cold War, you may feel you want to learn more. You can do so visiting both Checkpoint Charlie and the Berlin Wall Memorial and Documentation Centre. The former is the most infamous crossing between East and West along the Wall – you'll find it on the corner of Friedrichstraße and Zimmerstraße.
The Berlin Wall Memorial and Documentation Centre meanwhile is located on the Bernauer Straße. Here you'll discover an open-air exhibition and a large stretch of the wall, 70 metres, in fact, along with a watchtower.
Brandenburg Gate
Since the fall of the wall in 1991, this stunning monument has been seen as a representation of unity. But while it's been used as a sign and symbol in the modern era, construction of this magnificent gate was actually completed back in the 18th century by royal architect Carl Gotthard Langhans.
Head to the awe-inspiring Pariser Platz square to marvel at the gate and several other incredibly important buildings. You can park in one of the lots near Voßstraße and then take the 10-minute walk via Ebertstraße towards Pariser Platz.
Holocaust memorial
Close to the Brandenburg Gate, this extremely thoughtful memorial is set in an open space – which means you can walk around respectfully and at your own pace. Opened ceremonially in 2005, the site, designed by New York architect Peter Eisenman, spans a staggering 19,000 square metres and includes 2711 concrete slabs of differing heights.
It was designed to be a place of quiet remembrance and contemplation. This is an incredibly important place, and if you're visiting Germany to learn about its history, don't shy away from visiting here.
Museum Island
Awarded UNESCO World Heritage status in 1999, the northern part of this island on the River Spree is home to many buildings, including five stunning museums.
The Pergamon Museum, Altes Museum, Neues Museum, Alte Nationalgalerie and Bode Museum are all located on the island in the historic centre of this beautiful city, and house extraordinary art and artifacts ranging from the contemporary and stylish to the mysterious and ancient. You can purchase a ticket that will allow you to enter all five.
It's advised to use one of the parking lots near Alexanderplatz or Hackescher Markt and walk to the island, taking in the wonders of Berlin along the way.
Berlin Cathedral
Also located on Museum Island, the Berlin Cathedral, or Berliner Dom as it is known, is a stunning Neo-Renaissance building erected in 1905 and boasting an iconic domed roof.
A true symbol of the city, if you journey to the top of the cathedral you'll be rewarded with breathtaking views of the streets, buildings and landscape beyond.
Reichstag Building
Now the emblem of a reunited country and home to the German parliament, this magnificent glass-domed building has a fascinating past.
The Reichstag, built in 1894, is a neo-Baroque wonder that has endured war, bombing and fire. However, the building has been modernized into what we see today – and now offers unparalleled 360-degree views of this wondrous city.
It's worth noting that although admission is free, you are required to register your visit to the dome and roof terrace in advance. Park your rental vehicle in the lot along John-Foster-Dulles-Allee and walk east until you reach the Reichstag Building.
Berlin Television Tower
This spectacular structure is extremely difficult to miss from anywhere in Berlin. Not only is it the tallest building, but its unique shape makes it an iconic sight to behold.
One of the best times to visit is at sunset. Watching the sun go down on this fascinating city from an elevated vantage point is certainly an experience, especially if you're enjoying a delicious cocktail or delectable meal in the revolving restaurant.
If you think this is an experience for you, then you can look into the ticketing options available online.
Local food favourites
Of course, when you visit Germany, as well as immersing yourself in the culture and history, don’t forget to sample the cuisine!
A visit to the capital without sampling the beloved currywurst, or a serving of golden Wiener Schnitzel, would be a tragedy indeed. The food on offer in Berlin will certainly leave you feeling comforted.
Whether you follow our itinerary of the best things to do in Berlin or discover some of your own, car rental is the ideal way to get around.
We've got collection points dotted around the whole city, including at the major train stations and airports, so if you pick up a vehicle from us you can truly experience this incredible city in all its glory.
