The perfect way to spend a day in Berlin

When it comes to European capitals, Berlin is up there with the best of them. It’s full of historical sights, some of the world’s most instantly recognisable landmarks are here, nightlife is legendary and eating out is cheap (and tasty).

Berlin is also one of Europe’s biggest capitals, and since it doesn’t have a ‘centre’ like its counterparts, you need to have done your homework before going. That’s why we’ve done some of it for you in our ultimate day in the German capital…

9.30am – Start at Alexanderplatz and rent a bike

Berlin is a noticeably flat city that lends itself to bicycles. If you’re someone who enjoys cycling, I recommend renting a bike for the day. You’ll see loads and get a bit of exercise too. There are different places to pick up a bike in the city’s Alexanderplatz.

10am – Cycle across Museumsinsel and marvel at the buildings

Just a few minutes cycle from this square, which is home to the famous TV Tower, is Museumsinsel – an island that is home to some of the city’s most striking buildings (most of which are museums).

10.30am – Explore the Pergamonmuseum

There are a host of museums to explore on this island, but I’m opting for Pergamonmuseum. This museum houses some of the world’s most treasured classical antiquities and is a fascinating cultural experience.

12.30pm – Cycle down Unter den Linden, stopping for some currywurst along the way

Jump back on your bike and make your way down Berlin’s famous Unter den Linden. Stop for some currywurst along the way. This is a German specialty that comprises sliced frankfurter sausage and a traditional curry-type sauce. Unter den Linden is by no means where you’ll find the most authentic currywurst, but it’s not bad considering the location.

1pm – Make your way to the Brandenburg Gate

At the end of Unter den Lindon is Berlin’s (and arguably Germany’s) most famous landmark, the Brandenburg Gate. Stop for a photo, selfie, moment or whatever else takes your fancy.

1.30pm – Climb to the top of The Reichstag

Home to the Bundestag (Germany Parliament) since 1999, Berlin’s Reichstag is one of the city’s best-known buildings. Crowned by a glass cupola, it’s one of the most unique ones…and one that is open to the public. Pending you’ve already booked online (you can do that here), visit the landmark and climb to the top.

3pm – Visit Memorial to the Jews

Just minutes from here is the Memorial to the Murdered Jews of Europe – a poignant memorial to those who lost their lives in the Holocaust. Take some time out to walk through the pillars, paying respect to those who passed away during this time.

4pm – See the murals on the East Side Gallery (Berlin Wall)

Photo courtesy of Rae Allen

The East Side Gallery is where you’ll find the best-preserved section of Berlin’s famous East Side Gallery. This stretch of the wall is decorated with murals that have become iconic in their own right.

5pm – Drop back the bike

Drop your bike back to Alexanderplatz . If you haven’t already, admire another of the city’s landmarks – the TV Tower.

5.30pm – Make your way to Hackescher Markt

Photo courtesy of Stadtlichtpunkte

This busy square and surrounding area is a good place to relax for a while after a day’s sightseeing. Full of bars and cafes, sit down and soak up the atmosphere of one of the world’s great capitals.

7pm – Sit down in Monsieur Wong’s for top-notch Asian eats

Photo courtesy of Wolfgang Jung

Located on Alte Schonhauser Str, Monsieur Wong’s is a popular restaurant that has a authentic Vietnamese dishes at affordable prices. Grab a bowl of pho in this buzzy eatery.

9pm – Check out the bars in Prenzlauerberg

Berlin is a city that’s all about neighbourhoods. If you’ve only one day there you might not get to visit that many, but when it comes to nightlife I suggest making your way to Prenzlauer Berg and, in particular, all around Helmholtzplatz. There are lots to choose from, my favourite being the eclectic Wohnzimmer (Letterstrasse 6).

11pm – Party the night away…

Berlin is a city that parties unlike any other city I’ve ever been to. Ever. If you’re one who like to burn the candle at both ends, this city is for you. There are lots of late bars (Silberfisch on Oranienburgerstrasse being one) to spend hours in plus some of the world’s most famous techno clubs if you’re that way inclined.

---

Book a homestay in Berlin

---

The best of Berlin on a map

---