Rediscovering Berlin: The Best Things to Do in the Grey City

Is there anywhere in the world that stands as a testament to resilience, transformation and the enduring spirit of human endeavour as Berlin? We think not. For the seasoned traveller, Germany’s capital offers a unique blend of nostalgia and novelty, weaving together the remnants of a divided past with the vibrancy of a unified present.

While navigating the streets of this dynamic metropolis means you can’t escape the omnipresent shadow of the Berlin Wall, there’s so much more to this urban city than its storied past. From delving into the halls of Museum Island and its centuries of artistic and cultural heritage, to enjoying leisurely strolls through its myriad of art galleries – and not forgetting sampling its thriving food scene – we’ve curated a list of things to do that shows off every element of this fabulous city.

Happy exploring.

Picture this: you’re strolling through halls filled with ancient wonders and priceless artefacts, feeling like a modern-day Indiana Jones (minus the fedora, of course), geeking out over ancient Egyptian mummies at the Neues Museum, channelling your inner art critic at the Alte Nationalgalerie with its impressive collection of European masterpieces, and losing yourself in the grandeur of the Pergamon Museum's jaw-dropping archaeological treasures. If you’ve got a soft spot for culture and history, Museum Island is your playground in Berlin.

A bit like stepping into a time machine, but with better lighting and air conditioning, grab your museum map, charge up your camera and prepare for a day of cultural exploration.

2. Take A Wander Along The Berlin Wall

One thing’s for sure – you can’t visit Berlin without exploring the Berlin Wall. Trace the path of this once-divisive barrier, now adorned with vibrant murals and poignant memorials, and you can't help but feel the weight of its legacy.

Start at the East Side Gallery, where over a kilometre of the Wall stands as a testament to freedom of expression, before delving deeper into its history at the Berlin Wall Memorial, where preserved segments and interactive exhibits offer insight into the lives impacted by the Cold War divide. It's a sobering yet ultimately uplifting experience, and a reminder that even the most formidable barriers can be overcome.

Whether you're a seasoned gourmet or just someone who appreciates a good meal, Berlin has something to satisfy every palate. Start your day with a leisurely brunch at one of the city’s cosy cafés (La Maison by the Landwehr Canal does the best croissants in Berlin) before immersing yourself in the vibrant food scene at a local market. Markthalle Neun is our top pick, and you can sample everything from artisanal cheeses to traditional street food.

Be sure to save room for some iconic currywurst too - no trip to Berlin is complete without indulging in this savoury snack, and you can find some of the best in the business at Curry 36. While they have multiple locations, the classic one is outside Mehringdamm U-Bahn.

Read up on our full list of the best restaurants in Berlin here.

4. Be Awe-Inspired By The Grandeur Of Schloss Charlottenburg

Standing as a majestic testament to Berlin's rich history and royal heritage, stepping into Schloss Charlottenburg’s grand halls and sprawling gardens is like taking a journey back in time to the opulence of Prussian royalty.

Spend a few hours exploring the lavishly decorated rooms before wandering through the palace's lush gardens, where manicured lawns, tranquil water features and blooming flowerbeds create a serene oasis amidst the bustling cityscape.

Whether you’re in the market for retro clothing, vinyl records, handmade jewellery or unique souvenirs, you’ll find it all and then some at the Mauerpark Flea Market. One of Berlin's most iconic shopping destinations, every Sunday the vibrant market springs to life, offering a kaleidoscope of vintage finds, quirky crafts, and eclectic knick-knacks.

So much more than just a place to burn through the credit card, the market is also a cultural hotspot complete with live music performances and street food vendors, making it a must-visit on any itinerary.

6. Admire The Reichstag Building

One of Berlin’s most famous landmarks, the Reichstag Building served as the seat of parliament in the German Empire and the Weimar Republic.

Take a guided tour to explore the building's historic chambers, where echoes of political discourse and democratic ideals linger in the air, before ascending to the Reichstag's iconic glass dome which offers panoramic views of the city skyline. Plan your visit for sunset to make it even more special.

As one of the most creative cities in Europe, Berlin is home to a treasure trove of eclectic art galleries.

Start your journey at the trendy galleries of Mitte, where contemporary works by local and international artists adorn the walls in a kaleidoscope of colours and styles, before venturing over the neighbourhood of Kreuzberg, where street art reigns supreme. And let's not forget about the iconic galleries of Charlottenburg, where classic masterpieces and avant-garde experiments coexist in perfect harmony. It's a visual feast you won't soon forget.