4-Day Berlin: Sightseeing, Food and Wine Extravaganza

Berlin, Germany

4 days

Soviet War Memorial in Treptower Park
The city center at sunset
Museum island on Spree river
Subway
Treptower Park

About Berlin, Germany

Berlin, Germany's vibrant capital, is a captivating fusion of history, culture, and cutting-edge modernity. The city's iconic landmarks like the Brandenburg Gate, Berlin Wall remnants, and Checkpoint Charlie narrate poignant tales of its turbulent past. Berlin's Museum Island, a UNESCO World Heritage site, houses five world-renowned museums. The city's thriving art scene, eclectic nightlife, and diverse culinary delights cater to all tastes. The sprawling Tiergarten offers a tranquil retreat amidst the urban buzz. Berlin's efficient public transport makes exploring easy and convenient. Whether you're a history buff, art enthusiast, or foodie, Berlin promises an unforgettable travel experience.

4-Day Itinerary

Day 1

Exploring Mitte and Museum Island

Morning

Start your day with a visit to the iconic Brandenburg Gate, a symbol of unity and peace. This 18th-century neoclassical monument is a must-see for any Berlin visitor.

Lunch

Enjoy a traditional German lunch in a cozy restaurant in the Mitte district. Try local specialties like currywurst or schnitzel.

Afternoon

Spend your afternoon exploring Museum Island, a UNESCO World Heritage site. This unique ensemble of five museums is a real treat for art and history lovers.

Dinner

Have dinner in a trendy restaurant in the Prenzlauer Berg district. This area is known for its diverse food scene, offering everything from German to Asian cuisine.

Evening

End your day with a stroll along the Spree River. The riverside is beautifully illuminated at night, offering a romantic atmosphere.

Morning

Visit the Berlin Wall Memorial in the morning. This outdoor museum provides a stark reminder of the city's divided past.

Lunch

Have lunch in a charming café in the Mitte district. Enjoy a hearty soup or a fresh salad.

Afternoon

Spend your afternoon in the Tiergarten, Berlin's largest and most popular inner-city park. It's a perfect place for a leisurely walk or a picnic.

Dinner

Dine in a stylish restaurant in the Charlottenburg district. This area is known for its upscale dining options.

Evening

Enjoy a classical music concert at the Berlin Philharmonic, one of the world's leading orchestras.

Morning

Start your day with a visit to the Reichstag Building, the home of the German parliament. Don't miss the chance to climb up to the glass dome for a panoramic view of the city.

Lunch

Enjoy a leisurely lunch in a restaurant in the Mitte district. Try a traditional German dish like sauerbraten or bratwurst.

Afternoon

Spend your afternoon exploring the Checkpoint Charlie Museum, which documents the history of the Berlin Wall and the Cold War.

Dinner

Have dinner in a modern restaurant in the Kreuzberg district. This area is known for its vibrant food scene, offering a mix of international cuisines.

Evening

End your day with a visit to the Berliner Fernsehturm, the city's iconic TV tower. The observation deck offers stunning views of the city at night.

Morning

Visit the Charlottenburg Palace, the largest palace in Berlin. The baroque and rococo styles of the palace are a feast for the eyes.

Lunch

Have lunch in a traditional German restaurant in the Charlottenburg district. Enjoy a hearty meal of pork knuckle or sausages.

Afternoon

Spend your afternoon shopping on Kurfürstendamm, Berlin's most famous shopping street. Here you'll find everything from high-end fashion to unique local boutiques.

Dinner

Dine in a chic restaurant in the Mitte district. This area is known for its innovative culinary scene.

Evening

End your trip with a visit to the Potsdamer Platz, a major public square and traffic intersection. The area is beautifully lit up at night and offers a variety of entertainment options.

Attractions in Itinerary (11)

Brandenburg Gate

1
Brandenburg Gate

One of the most famous landmarks in Germany, it symbolizes Berlin's Cold War division into East and West.

Attractions
Monuments
Landmarks
Museum Island

2
Museum Island

A unique ensemble of five museums on Spree Island in the district of Mitte in Berlin.

Museums
Cultural Experiences
Architecture
Berlin Wall Memorial

3
Berlin Wall Memorial

The central memorial site of German division, located in the middle of the capital.

Attractions
Monuments
Cultural Experiences
Tiergarten

4
Tiergarten

Berlin's most popular inner-city park, located completely in the district of the same name.

Parks
Cultural Experiences
Berlin Philharmonic

5
Berlin Philharmonic

A world-renowned orchestra based in Berlin, playing concerts at the Philharmonie on Herbert-von-Karajan-Straße in the Kulturforum area.

Attractions
Entertainment
Cultural Experiences
Reichstag Building

6
Reichstag Building

Historic edifice in Berlin, Germany, constructed to house the Imperial Diet of the German Empire.

Attractions
Monuments
Architecture
Checkpoint Charlie Museum

7
Checkpoint Charlie Museum

The Checkpoint Charlie Museum is a private museum in Berlin. It is named after the famous crossing point on the Berlin Wall, and uses exhibits to tell the story of Berlin's divided past.

Museums
Cultural Experiences
Berliner Fernsehturm

8
Berliner Fernsehturm

The Berliner Fernsehturm, or Berlin TV Tower, is a major landmark in Berlin. It's the tallest structure in Germany, and its observation deck offers stunning views of the city.

Attractions
Landmarks
Tours
Charlottenburg Palace

9
Charlottenburg Palace

The largest palace in Berlin, and the only surviving royal residence in the city dating back to the time of the Hohenzollern family.

Attractions
Monuments
Cultural Experiences
Architecture
Kurfürstendamm

10
Kurfürstendamm

One of the most famous avenues in Berlin. The street takes its name from the former Kurfürsten (prince-electors) of Brandenburg.

Shopping
Neighborhoods
Potsdamer Platz

11
Potsdamer Platz

Potsdamer Platz is an important public square and traffic intersection in the center of Berlin, Germany, lying about 1 km south of the Brandenburg Gate and the Reichstag, and close to the southeast corner of the Tiergarten park.

Attractions
Entertainment
Shopping

Local Food and Drinks (12)

Currywurst

Currywurst

A popular fast food dish in Berlin, Currywurst is a steamed, then fried pork sausage seasoned with curry ketchup, regularly served with fries.

Döner Kebab

Döner Kebab

Originally a Turkish dish, Döner Kebab has become a staple of Berlin's fast food culture. It consists of sliced meat from a rotisserie, served inside a bread with salad and sauce.

Eisbein

Eisbein

Eisbein is a traditional Berlin dish. It's a large pork knuckle boiled or grilled and served with sauerkraut and mashed peas.

Berliner Pfannkuchen

Berliner Pfannkuchen

A traditional Berlin dessert, Berliner Pfannkuchen is a sweet doughnut filled with jam and dusted with powdered sugar.

Buletten

Buletten are Berlin's version of meatballs or burgers. They are made from minced meat, bread, eggs, and spices, and are usually served with mustard.

Schnitzel

Schnitzel

Although originally from Austria, Schnitzel is very popular in Berlin. It's a breaded and fried meat cutlet, usually served with potatoes and lemon slices.

Berliner Weisse

Berliner Weisse

Berliner Weisse is a traditional Berlin beer. It's a sour wheat beer, often served with a shot of sweet syrup to balance the tartness.

Kartoffelpuffer

Kartoffelpuffer

Kartoffelpuffer are German potato pancakes. In Berlin, they are often served with apple sauce or smoked salmon and horseradish cream.

Rote Grütze

Rote Grütze

Rote Grütze is a popular dessert in Berlin. It's a red fruit pudding made from berries and often served with vanilla sauce or cream.

Bratwurst

Bratwurst

Bratwurst is a type of German sausage made from pork, beef, or veal. It's a popular street food in Berlin, often served in a bun with mustard.

Sauerbraten

Sauerbraten

Sauerbraten is a pot roast, usually of beef, marinated before being slow-cooked. It's a traditional dish in Berlin, often served with red cabbage and dumplings.

Glühwein

Glühwein

Glühwein is a mulled wine, popular in Berlin during the winter months. It's served hot and spiced with cinnamon, cloves, star anise, and citrus.

Best time to visit

The best time to visit Berlin, Germany as a tourist is typically between May and September. During these months, the weather is most favorable with warm temperatures and long daylight hours, perfect for sightseeing and outdoor activities. Additionally, numerous events and festivals such as the Carnival of Cultures, Berlin Pride, and the Berlin Beer Festival take place during this period, adding to the city's vibrant atmosphere. However, if you're interested in the city's famous Christmas markets, late November to December would be the ideal time to visit.

National holidays

Here you can find the national calendar of all public holidays for the year. These dates are subject to change as official changes are announced, so check back regularly for updates.

DateDayHoliday Name

January 1

Mon

New Year's Day

January 6

Sat

Epiphany (regional holiday)

March 29

Fri

Good Friday

March 31

Sun

Easter Sunday (regional holiday)

April 1

Mon

Easter Monday

May 1

Wed

May Day

May 9

Thu

Ascension Day

May 19

Sun

Whit Sunday (regional holiday)

May 20

Mon

Whit Monday

May 30

Thu

Corpus Christi (regional holiday)

August 8

Thu

Peace Festival in Augsburg (Bavaria)

August 15

Thu

Assumption of Mary (regional holiday)

September 20

Fri

German World Children's Day (Thuringia)

October 3

Thu

Day of German Unity

October 31

Thu

Reformation Day (regional holiday)

November 1

Fri

All Saints' Day (regional holiday)

November 20

Wed

Repentance Day (Saxony)

December 25

Wed

Christmas Day

December 26

Thu

Boxing Day

Please note that during national and public holidays, opening hours for establishments, museums, etc. may vary. Don't forget to check in advance!

How to get around

Berlin's U-Bahn system is extensive and efficient, with frequent services running on numerous lines across the city. It operates from early morning until late at night, and 24 hours on weekends.

The S-Bahn is a network of suburban train services that reach further out into the wider Berlin region. It operates similar hours to the U-Bahn, with some lines running 24 hours on weekends.

Berlin has an extensive tram network, particularly in the eastern part of the city. Trams run frequently and cover many areas not served by the U-Bahn or S-Bahn.

Buses complement the rail and tram services, covering all parts of the city. There are also express bus services and night buses that operate when the U-Bahn and S-Bahn are not running.

Berlin is a very bike-friendly city with extensive cycle paths and bike hire services available throughout the city. It's a great way to see the city at your own pace.

While driving in Berlin is possible, it's often not the most convenient option due to traffic and parking restrictions. However, car hire services are available for those who prefer this mode of transport.

Ridesharing services like Uber are available in Berlin. They can be a convenient option for getting around, especially if you're travelling in a group or have a lot of luggage.

Taxis are readily available throughout Berlin. They can be hailed on the street, picked up from taxi ranks, or booked in advance.

Many of Berlin's most famous sights are within walking distance of each other, especially in the city centre. Walking can be a pleasant and leisurely way to explore the city.

Berlin's public transport system also includes several ferry services that operate on the city's lakes and rivers. These can be a scenic and relaxing way to travel, particularly in good weather.

While we strive for accuracy in our "How to get around" section, the information may not always be up-to-date or 100% accurate; we highly recommend cross-checking with local resources before your travel.

Important information

Currency€ EUR

Time zoneUTC+1

Driving sideRight

Emergency phoneAmbulance and Fire: 112; Police: 110

Drinking waterYes

Power sockets

Power socket type CPower socket type F

Voltage230 V

Things to know about Berlin, Germany as a first time visitor

1

Berlin is a very large city, so plan your itinerary carefully to make the most of your time.

2

Public transportation in Berlin is excellent, with a comprehensive network of buses, trams, U-Bahn (underground trains), and S-Bahn (suburban trains).

3

Berlin is a very bike-friendly city, and renting a bike can be a great way to get around.

4

Berlin is a very safe city, but like any large city, it's important to be aware of your surroundings and keep an eye on your belongings.

5

Berlin is a very multicultural city, with a large immigrant population. English is widely spoken, especially in the city center and tourist areas.

6

The official currency of Germany is the Euro. Credit cards are widely accepted, but it's a good idea to carry some cash as well.

7

Tipping is customary in Berlin. It's typical to round up to the nearest Euro in cafes and bars, and to tip 10-15% in restaurants.

8

Berlin has a temperate seasonal climate. Summers (June to August) can be warm, with temperatures ranging from 68°F to 86°F (20°C to 30°C). Winters (December to February) can be cold, with temperatures ranging from 30°F to 45°F (-1°C to 7°C).

9

Berlin is known for its vibrant nightlife, with a wide range of bars, clubs, and live music venues.

10

Berlin has a wide range of accommodation options, from luxury hotels to budget hostels. It's a good idea to book in advance, especially during the peak tourist season.

11

Berlin is a very green city, with many parks and green spaces. It's a great city for walking and outdoor activities.

12

Berlin has a rich history, and it's worth taking the time to learn about the city's past before you visit.

13

Berlin has a vibrant food scene, with a wide range of cuisines available. Don't miss the chance to try traditional German dishes like currywurst and pretzels.

14

Berlin is in the Central European Time Zone (CET), which is 1 hour ahead of Greenwich Mean Time (GMT+1).

15

Berlin has a wide range of shopping options, from high-end designer boutiques to flea markets and vintage shops.

16

Berlin is a very modern city, but it also has a lot of historic architecture. Be sure to respect the city's historic sites and monuments.

17

Smoking is not allowed in public places in Berlin, including bars and restaurants.

18

Berlin has a wide range of cultural events and festivals throughout the year, so check the local listings to see what's on during your visit.

19

Berlin is a very LGBT-friendly city, with a vibrant gay and lesbian scene.

20

Berlin has a wide range of museums and galleries, so it's a great city for art and culture lovers.

Basic German to know as a first time visitor

English phrase

Native phrase

Pronunciation

When to use it

Hello

Hallo

ha-lo

Greeting someone

Goodbye

Auf Wiedersehen

owf vee-der-zayn

Saying goodbye

Please

Bitte

bit-te

Making a request

Thank you

Danke

dahn-ke

Expressing gratitude

Yes

Ja

ya

Affirming

No

Nein

nine

Negating

Excuse me

Entschuldigung

ent-shool-dee-goong

Getting attention/apologizing

I don't understand

Ich verstehe nicht

ish ver-shtay-uh nisht

When you don't understand

Do you speak English?

Sprechen Sie Englisch?

shprek-en zee eng-lish

Asking if someone speaks English

I'm sorry

Es tut mir leid

es toot meer lite

Apologizing

Where is the bathroom?

Wo ist die Toilette?

vo ist dee toilet-te

Asking for the bathroom

How much does it cost?

Wie viel kostet das?

vee feel kos-tet das

Asking for the price

I would like...

Ich möchte...

ish moe-shte

Making a request

Help!

Hilfe!

hil-fe

In an emergency

Can I have the bill, please?

Kann ich bitte die Rechnung haben?

kan ish bit-te dee reck-noong ha-ben

Asking for the bill

Where is...?

Wo ist...?

vo ist

Asking for directions

What is your name?

Wie heißen Sie?

vee high-sen zee

Asking someone's name

My name is...

Ich heiße...

ish high-se

Introducing yourself

Good morning

Guten Morgen

gooten morgen

Morning greeting

Good night

Gute Nacht

goota nacht

Saying goodnight

Packing List

  • Clothing

  • Underwear (4 pairs)

  • Socks (4 pairs)

  • T-shirts (4)

  • Long-sleeve shirts (2)

  • Jeans or trousers (2 pairs)

  • Comfortable walking shoes

  • Sleepwear

  • Light jacket or sweater

  • Raincoat or umbrella

  • Scarf, gloves and hat (if winter)

  • Toiletries

  • Toothbrush and toothpaste

  • Deodorant

  • Shampoo and conditioner

  • Body wash or soap

  • Razor and shaving cream

  • Makeup and makeup remover

  • Sunscreen

  • Hand sanitizer

  • Travel-size first aid kit

  • Prescription medications

  • Travel documents and essentials

  • Passport and visa (if required)

  • Driver's license or other ID

  • Health insurance card

  • Travel insurance documents

  • Hotel and transportation reservation confirmations

  • Credit and debit cards

  • Cash in local currency

  • Guidebook or map

  • Phrasebook or language app

  • Electronics and gadgets

  • Smartphone and charger

  • Headphones

  • Camera and charger

  • Power adapter or converter

  • Portable power bank

  • Laptop or tablet and charger (if needed)

  • Miscellaneous items

  • Snacks for travel

  • Reusable water bottle

  • Travel pillow and blanket

  • Books or e-reader for entertainment

  • Travel-size laundry detergent

  • Plastic bags for dirty clothes

  • Notepad and pen

  • Travel-size sewing kit

Weather Conditions

Berlin, Germany, experiences a temperate seasonal climate where extreme temperature lows and highs are rare. The city's weather can be unpredictable, so it's always a good idea to check the forecast before your trip. Spring (March to May) in Berlin is quite pleasant, with temperatures ranging from 40°F to 70°F (4°C to 21°C). It's a great time to visit parks and enjoy outdoor activities. However, it's also a season of changeable weather, so pack layers and don't forget your umbrella. Summer (June to August) is the warmest season, with temperatures typically between 60°F and 75°F (15°C to 24°C), but can occasionally reach up to 86°F (30°C). This is the perfect time for sightseeing and enjoying Berlin's outdoor cafes and beer gardens. Remember to pack light clothing, but also include a light jacket for cooler evenings. Autumn (September to November) sees temperatures drop to between 45°F and 65°F (7°C to 18°C). The city's parks and gardens are beautiful with fall colors, but rain is more frequent, so pack a raincoat or umbrella. Winter (December to February) in Berlin can be quite cold, with temperatures often dropping below freezing, ranging from 30°F to 45°F (-1°C to 7°C). Snow is common, making it a picturesque time to visit. However, you'll need to pack warm clothing, including a heavy coat, scarves, gloves, and hats. Regardless of when you visit, Berlin's weather can change quickly, so it's always a good idea to carry an umbrella or rain jacket. Also, remember that the city is best explored on foot, so comfortable, weather-appropriate footwear is a must. Enjoy your trip to Berlin!

MonthHi / Lo (°C)Weather Overview

January

3° / -2°

January is the coldest month in Berlin, with temperatures often dropping below freezing. It's also a relatively dry month, so pack warm clothing and be prepared for potential snow.

February

5° / -1°

February is still quite cold in Berlin, with temperatures slightly higher than January. Snow is less likely, but still possible, so warm clothing is essential.

March

9° / 1°

March sees the beginning of spring in Berlin, with temperatures starting to rise. However, it can still be quite chilly, especially in the early part of the month.

April

14° / 4°

April is a transitional month in Berlin, with temperatures ranging from chilly to moderately warm. Rain is more common, so pack a raincoat or umbrella.

May

20° / 8°

May is a pleasant month to visit Berlin, with temperatures often reaching 20 degrees Celsius. The city is in full bloom and outdoor activities are enjoyable.

June

22° / 12°

June marks the beginning of summer in Berlin, with long, sunny days and warm temperatures. It's a great time for outdoor sightseeing and events.

July

24° / 14°

July is the warmest month in Berlin, with temperatures often exceeding 20 degrees Celsius. It's a perfect time for swimming, picnicking, and enjoying Berlin's parks and lakes.

August

23° / 14°

August is still quite warm in Berlin, but temperatures start to drop slightly towards the end of the month. It's a great time to visit Berlin's many outdoor beer gardens.

September

20° / 10°

September marks the beginning of autumn in Berlin, with temperatures starting to drop. However, it's still warm enough for outdoor activities and sightseeing.

October

14° / 6°

October is a cooler month in Berlin, with temperatures often dropping to single digits. It's a great time to visit museums and indoor attractions.

November

8° / 2°

November is a chilly month in Berlin, with temperatures often dropping below 10 degrees Celsius. It's a good time to explore Berlin's indoor attractions and Christmas markets.

December

5° / -1°

December is a cold and often snowy month in Berlin. It's a magical time to visit, with Christmas markets and festive decorations throughout the city.

Did you know?

Did you know that Berlin is nine times bigger than Paris and has more bridges than Venice?

1 of 10

Places near by Berlin, Germany

Potsdam

Potsdam

Historic city with Sanssouci Palace and Park

45m
35 km / 21.7 mi
How to get there
Dresden

Dresden

City known for its historic architecture like Frauenkirche

2h
190 km / 118.1 mi
How to get there
Spreewald

Spreewald

Biosphere reserve known for its traditional irrigation system

1.5h
100 km / 62.1 mi
How to get there
Leipzig

Leipzig

City known for its music and cultural scene

2h
190 km / 118.1 mi
How to get there
Sachsenhausen Concentration Camp

Sachsenhausen Concentration Camp

Historic WWII concentration camp

1h
35 km / 21.7 mi
How to get there
Rugen Island

Rugen Island

Germany's largest island with beautiful beaches and chalk cliffs

3h
300 km / 186.4 mi
How to get there
Wittenberg

Wittenberg

Birthplace of the Reformation and home to Martin Luther

1.3h
115 km / 71.5 mi
How to get there
Peacock Island (Pfaueninsel)

Peacock Island (Pfaueninsel)

Beautiful island and park in the Havel River

1h
25 km / 15.5 mi
How to get there
Quedlinburg

Quedlinburg

Medieval town with over 1300 half-timbered houses

3h
210 km / 130.5 mi
How to get there
Meissen

Meissen

City known for its porcelain and Albrechtsburg castle

2h
180 km / 111.8 mi
How to get there

Other Destinations in Germany