Three Days In Berlin

Unforgettable Berlin: A Budget-Friendly Itinerary for First-Timers (3 Days)
Three days in Berlin might fly by, but this itinerary will pack in must-see sights and hidden gems for first-time visitors.
As a Berlin enthusiast (it was my first travel love!), I spent 9 months living there and discovered its unique charm. From the contrasting mix of post-war history and vibrant street art to unexpected green spaces, Berlin offers something for everyone.

Special for Party People! This city, a pioneer of electronic music, boasts a club scene that goes for days. Choose from fancy clubs to gritty basements and dance until dawn.
Embrace the freedom! Berlin’s “live and let live” attitude is palpable. Here, you’ll encounter a diverse mix of people, all accepted and celebrated for their individuality.
This feeling of freedom and probably that it’s allowed to drink almost everywhere is what I like the most of this city.
Bonus for veggie/vegans: Berlin has a thriving plant-based food scene. Just a heads-up: cash is still king at many vendors.

You couldn’t consider Berlin as pretty, is dirty and filled with schizophrenics talking to themselves. But this is part of the charm of this city.
And I promised you, nothing will happened to you while travelling as a tourist here.
Berlin Is the Capital of Germany (Deutschland in german) they use Euros and it’s not as expensive as other mainstream capitals in Europe.
This last time here I went with my girlfriend for the first time and my returning after almost five years. So I was super exited to created the best itinerary to try to show her all the important things in this amazing and wild city.

Day 1

Unter Den Linden

We’re starting our 3-day Berlin adventure at Unter den Linden, the most famous boulevard in the city. Named after the linden trees on both sides, this avenue is a must-do. You can just feel the history and importance of this place as you walk by.
Be sure to start early because there’s a lot packed into the first day!
Begin your walk on the Schlossbrücke (Castle Bridge) side.
At the end of the Unter Den Linden you’ll find the Cathedral and the TV Tower, showing the mix of old and new Berlin. On the other end stands the famous Brandenburger Tor (Brandenburg Gate).

Unter den Linden has been a focal point of Berlin’s political, cultural, and intellectual life for centuries. It has hosted parades, demonstrations, and significant historical events.

Neue Wache And Bebelplatz

The Neue Wache, initially constructed as a guardhouse for the Royal Palace of Prussia and serving as the main guardhouse for the troops of the Prussian kings, has transformed over time from a symbol of military power into a memorial site. It has played various roles in commemorating German military history and the victims of wars. The Neue Wache possesses a haunting stillness. An almost palpable reverence hangs in the air, urging you to move with quiet respect. It’s a powerful reminder of the weight of history held within these walls.

At Bebelplatz you have the Memorial to May 10, 1933 Nazi Book Burning. Where members of the Nazi German Student Association and other Nazi-affiliated groups burned around 20,000 books deemed “un-German” in various university towns across Germany.
If you looked down to the memorial you’ll see empty bookshelves symbolising the cultural loss and the void left behind.

Gendarmenmarkt

Around 5 minutes walking from the Bebelplatz you’ll find Gendarmenmarkt which is one of the most beautiful and historically significant squares in Berlin. Known for its stunning architecture and cultural landmarks, it’s a must-visit destination for anyone exploring the city. Gendarmenmarkt was created in the late 17th century

At Gendarmenmarkt you have:

• Konzerthaus Berlin (Concert House)
• French Cathedral (Französischer Dom) 6,5€ regular ticket
• German Cathedral (Deutscher Dom) Free entry

Memorial to the Murdered Jews of Europe

About 12 minutes walking from the Gendarmenmarkt you’ll find one of the biggest Memorials in Europe, counting with more than 2700 stone pillars.
Dedicated to the memory of the six million Jewish victims of the Holocaust. The design creates a disorienting and immersive experience for visitors, evoking feelings of loss, confusion, and the overwhelming scale of the Holocaust. The pathways between the pillars are narrow, contributing to a sense of confinement and introspection.

Beneath the field of pillars is an underground Information Center, providing historical context and personal stories related to the Holocaust. The information centre is close every Monday and the entrance is free. The opening hours are from 10 Am till 18 PM.

Brandenburg Gate

Probably the most iconic landmark of Berlin and only 6 minutes walking from the memorial you’ll find the Brandenburg Gate (Brandenburger Tor). It was commissioned by King Frederick William II of Prussia and constructed between 1788 and 1791.

Tiergarten

Right behind the Brandenburg Gate you have one of the biggest parks in Berlin and probably my favourite place in the whole city. It offers a green oasis in the heart of the city. The Tiergarten, which means “Animal Garden” in German, began as a hunting ground for the Elector of Brandenburg in the 16th century. Over the centuries, it evolved into a public park.
The park is crisscrossed with numerous walking and cycling paths, making it a favourite spot for outdoor activities. I strongly recommend to rent a public NEXT bike to proper explore this magnificent park.

Tiergarten offers extensive lawns, woodlands, and waterways.

Soviet War Memorial Tiergarten

If you follow the main avenue (Bundesstrasse) which divide the park you’ll see the Soviet War Memorial Tiergarten.

Victory Column

If you continue straight for the same avenue you’ll see right away the Victory Column, probably the most iconic landmark of the Park. Either 12 minutes walking of 5 in the bicycle you’ll be at the bottom of the column.
Built between 1864 and 1873. It commemorates Prussian military victories in different wars. The column stands at a total height of 67 meters (220 feet), including the statue at the top (Victoria, the Roman goddess of victory).
Visitors can climb 285 steps to reach the observation deck just below the statue. From here, you can enjoy panoramic views of Berlin, including sights such as the Brandenburg Gate, the Reichstag, and the Berlin TV Tower.

If you want to go up the column you need to pay an entrance fee:

• Regular ticket to go up is 4€

Enjoy The Tiergarten

Get lost in this massive park and chill for the rest of the afternoon. It’s been a busy day and its not over yet.

Try Schnitzel With a German Beer

Gotta try a Schnitzel! This yummy breaded and fried meat (usually pork or chicken) is a classic German dish, just like kebabs. They even have veggie Schnitzel for folks who don’t eat meat like me! Pair it with a tasty German beer – Berliner Kindl, Paulaner, or my favorite, Augustinerbräu.

Get Ready To Party

Nightlife or Beer? This call depends entirely on how you’re feeling.

Exhausted? Maybe just grab a beer and relax. Berlin has some amazing options!
Up for an adventure? If you think you can handle it, then brace yourself to discover the real Berlin experience and try to get to any of its mystical and famous clubs.

Clubbing Tip: It’s always a good idea to check the lineup for the DJs playing that night. Knowing at least a few names can help you with the bouncer, just in case they ask.

• Berghain – Often cited as the best nightclub in the world and located in a former power plant.
  I’ve been inside this place and its as legend has it, but is generally very hard to get inside, completely random if you ask me. It doesn’t really matter what you are wearing or if you are alone or in a group. Pure luck.
• Tresor – One of Berlin’s original techno clubs, Tresor opened in 1991 in the vault of a former department store and was instrumental in shaping the city’s techno scene.
  This is probably my favourite club in Berlin, never had any problems to get in. And the underground techno there is unreal!
• Watergate – Situated by the Spree River in Kreuzberg, Watergate offers stunning views of the river and the Oberbaum Bridge.
  The party here is always great, less underground than Tresor or Berghain but the music installation is awesome and the led lights will make you dance all night!
• Sisyphos – Known for its festival-like atmosphere, Sisyphos features multiple dance floors, outdoor areas, and a lake. Another ex factory which give it a crazy atmosphere.
• KitKatClub – Known for its liberal and open-minded atmosphere, KitKatClub is as much about the experience as it is about the music.
  Probably one of the weirdest and bizarrest nights of my life was inside KitKat, what ever you think will happen inside, let me assure you that is gonna be crazier and wildest. If you decide to go the the famous sex club, make sure to be dress for the occasion.
  When we went here the bouncer told us that we need to take out our pants to get inside.

Day 2

After the end of the first day the second day of this three days in Berlin is gonna be a little bit easier and less moved. Let’s start the day at lunch time so you don’t have to wake up early.

Hackescher Markt To Have Lunch

Hackescher Markt is a vibrant and historic area in the Mitte district of Berlin, known for its lively atmosphere, rich cultural offerings, and architectural charm.
Its not completely necessary to eat inside the Markt, outside of it there’s many different restaurants from where to pick.
Our choice was the famous Mustafa’s Kebab that also has vegetarian options to try. Absolutely necessary to go and try this place!

Cafe Cinema

Only 4 minutes walking from the Hackescher Markt there’s Cafe Cinema. A place where you can really feel the Berlin vibe. Where there’s no blank space, everything is covered by posters, stickers, graffitis, paintings and weird decorations. The Cafe has a patio where you can walk around and take lots of pictures.

Café Cinema is more than just a café; it’s a cultural landmark in the heart of Berlin. Its unique blend of historical charm, artistic ambiance, and central location make it a beloved spot for both Berliners and visitors. Whether you’re looking to enjoy a coffee, a beer, discover local art, or simply soak in the vibrant atmosphere of Hackescher Markt, Café Cinema offers a memorable experience.

Museum Island

After the Cinema Cafe you’ll head to the Museum Island thats only 8 minutes walking from the Cafe. The Island Is a unique cultural and architectural ensemble located in the central Mitte district. It is one of the most significant museum complexes globally and a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1999.
Just walking through the Island and around the museums is something absolutely incredible. If you look around carefully, you’ll notice the bullets holes in many walls and pillars from the 2WW which gives another atmosphere to the whole tour.

The facade of the museums is breathtaking. I wouldn’t recommend to go inside because it will take at least two hours, maybe three hours.
I’ll add another FREE MUSEUM for the last day so you can skip this ones.
If you decide to go inside anyway here are the five available Museums:

• Altes Museum (Old Museum) 12€
  Highlights: Greek and Roman artefacts, Sculptures and vases.
• Neues Museum (New Museum) 16€
  Highlights: Bust of Nefertiti, Berlin Green Head, ancient Egyptian jewelry and Berlin Gold Hat.
• Alte Nationalgalerie (Old National Gallery) 16€
  Highlights: Works by Caspar David Friedrich, Adolph von Menzel, Manet, Monet, and Renoir.
• Bode Museum 12€
  Highlights: Sculptures by Donatello, Tilman Riemenschneider, Byzantine icons, extensive coin collection
• Pergamon Museum (Unfortunately this Museum is under renovations and it will be closed until 2027)
  Highlights: Pergamon Altar, Ishtar Gate of Babylon, Market Gate of Miletus, Mshatta Facade.

Berlin Cathedral (Berliner Dom)

Right in the middle of the Island you’ll see the Cathedral. The Berlin Cathedral (Berliner Dom) is one of the most prominent landmarks and architectural marvels in Berlin, Germany. The site of the Berlin Cathedral has housed several churches since the 15th century.
You can check out my drone videos of the Cathedral in my instagram.

Here you can buy the tickets online and I recommend to buy them in advance because there’s always a very long line to get inside. The Cathedral closes at 17 PM.
The prices are:

• Regular Ticket for one hour inside is 10€ 

Berliner  Schloss

Literally crossing the street from the Cathedral you’ll find The Berliner Schloss. Constructed between 1443 and 1451. After 2WW was reconstructed and houses the Humboldt Forum, a cultural and exhibition space focusing on world cultures, science, and art. You can walk around this incredible place for free.

Berlin Tv Tower

Only 10 minutes walking from the Berliner Schloss you have the base of the Berlin TV Tower, symbol of the East Berlin during the division after the 2WW. Built in 1969 as a television broadcasting tower and to demonstrate the technical and architectural prowess of the socialist state. Is the highest construction in Germany with 368 meters and one of the tallest in Europe. Making it visible from most parts of the city.
The “Sphere” restaurant, situated just above the observation deck, revolves once every 30 minutes, providing diners with a constantly changing view of the city.
I wouldn’t recommend to go there because is extremely expensive.

If you yo opt to go up the Tower here are the prices and the link to buy them online:

• Standard ticket (only to the observation deck) 22,5€
• Premium ticket (observation deck + Berlin’s Odyssee VR Experience) 29,5€
• Premium Deluxe ticket (oservation deck + 2x Berlin’s Odyssee VR Experience + 1x Drink of your choice at Sphere Bar) 45€

Alexanderplatz

After checking out the TV tower and 4 minutes walking you’ll be at one of the most connected nods in Berlin, Alexanderplatz. Here you can relax for a while and grab a coffee. This place dates back to the 13th century when it was a cattle market. Through history it went into many reforms and it host lots of important protests and significant moments.

Today it houses the world clock and two shopping malls as a massive Primark where you can buy the cheapest clothes and also an electronic shop called Saturn where you have three floors of different electronics devices. Many, extremely cheap as well.
Remember to ask for a TAX RETURN INVOICE if you are not a EU member if you spend more than 100 euros so you can get the tax return at the airport when you leave the UE.

Reichstag Building

To finish our second day we’ll visit the Reichstag Building. From Alexanderplatz you can take the U-Bahn (metro) U5 and you’ll be at the Reichstag in 11 minutes.
This building is the seat of the Bundestag, the federal parliament of Germany.
One very important thing, you need to booked this in advance, I’ve been inside three times and I’ve always enjoy it, first of all, Is for free. But have in mind that you will need to booked in advance because the last time we were there with my girlfriend we didn’t book and we couldn’t get inside.

The roof terrace and dome of the Reichstag Building are open from 8.00 hrs to midnight daily (last admission: 21.45 hrs). HERE is where you can register and booked to go up the dome.

The best part of the Building is the crystal Dome from where you can see lots of landmarks of Berlin like Brandenburg Tor and the TV Tower. In the middle of the Dome you have a mirror cone that create a spiral pattern, ascending from the floor of the dome to its apex.

Day 3

The last day of this three days in Berlin will be busy as well, so make sure to start early in the morning. Between 8 and 9 so you have time to have breakfast and start walking.

East Side Gallery

We will start our last day of this three days in Berlin in one of the most photographic places in the whole city. The East Side Gallery is a 1.3 kilometre long section of the Berlin Wall that has been turned into an open-air art gallery, making it the longest open air gallery in the world. It is located along the banks of the Spree river in the Friedrichshain-Kreuzberg district of Berlin. The East Side Gallery was created by 118 artists from 21 countries in 1990, shortly after the fall of the Berlin Wall.

The paintings on the wall depict themes of freedom, peace, and hope.
From my first time here almost ten years ago the paintings have been changing but some are still the same. It doesn’t really matter when you come but this place is a must visiting Berlin.

Oberbaumbrücke

Almost to the end of the East Side Galley you’ll see the Oberbaumbrücke, an incredible design bridge. Perfect place to take pictures and walk through. It was built in 1896 and is made of sandstone and brick and has a total length of 220 meters. The bridge is one of the few double-decker bridges in the world, and its sandstone and brick construction gives it a classic and timeless look.

It was originally built as a customs checkpoint between the eastern and western parts of Berlin. After the fall of the Berlin Wall in 1989, the bridge became a symbol of reunification.
You’ll probably see people living in at the bridge and some places stinks of piss but, again, part of Berlin charm.

Lunch Time

If you continue straight from the same avenue (Skallitzer strasse) of the bridge you’ll be at Kreuzberg, a famous district of Berlin. Full of pubs, cafes and restaurants. As well as street art and graffitis. We decide to eat at VEG’D – Vegan Burgers – X-Berg (12 minutes walking from the Bridge) a place that sells vegan burgers. And there were amazing! They have a Lunch Deal from 12 PM till 4 PM with a burger and fries for 10,9€.

Jewish Museum Berlin

After recharging, we headed to this incredible museum with free admission for the main exhibition (trust me, it’s amazing!). It’s one of the few truly interactive museums, making you feel part of the art. From the architecture to the lighting and colors, everything is designed to immerse you in the experience. The effect varies for everyone, but I always get goosebumps here!

It is one of the largest Jewish museums in Europe and houses a collection of over 40,000 objects that document the history of Jews in Germany from the Middle Ages to the present day.
To get to the museum I would recommend to take a public bicycle and you’ll be there in less then 10 minutes, also having the chance to go through Kreuzberg by bike which is an awesome experience. If not you can use the public transport.

Checkpoint Charlie

Only 10 minutes walking from the Museum there’s Checkpoint Charlie which was the best-known border crossing between East and West Berlin during the Cold War. It was a symbol of the division of Germany and the tensions between the West and the Soviet bloc. It was a place where people from the East and West could come face-to-face, but they could not cross freely. Depends on the hour but generally you’ll have actors dressed with allied uniforms so you can take pictures with them. Today you can buy a piece of the wall in different shops but I can’t be sure there are real pieces of the wall.

Kaiser Wilhelm Memorial Church

From Checkpoint Charlie you’ll go to Kaiser Wilhelm Memorial Church. To get here you can take either the bus M29 or the bus 200 and you’ll be there in 20 minutes. Again, you could try going with the bicycle and be there in 15 minutes. This church is a crazy place to see. Built in 1895 and almost completely destroyed at the 2WW it was decided to preserve the ruined nave (central part of the church) as a memorial against war and destruction.
The memorial is open Monday to Saturday from 10 AM to 6 PM and the entrance is for FREE.

Right next to the destroyed old church you have the new one built in 1961 that features beautiful stained glass windows.

Try Out The Curry Burst At Curry 36

Probably one of the most suggested things to try while been at Berlin is the curry sausages of Curry 36. Is at 5 minutes walking from the Memorial and in the way to our last stop.

Schleusenkrug

What a better way to finish a long day than with a cold beer. This place is probably one of the most known beer gardens in Berlin. Around 8 minutes walking from the curry 36. This place is awesome to relax and enjoy the slowly arriving of the night.

How To Move Around Berlin

1 Taxi (Bolt)

If you need/want to use a Taxi I always recommend to use the Bolt app to order one, taxis can’t scam you if you use it because is a fix rate so there’s no chance of them going in circles to charge you more.

• Download the app for Apple devices Bolt
• Download the app for Android devices Bolt

2 Public Transport

Berlin is probably one of the best connected cities in Europe, you have Metro, Buses and Trains. When ever buying a ticket is advisable to plan ahead because there are expensive and if you know how many stops you’ll do you can buy a short trip ticket. HERE you can check out the prices at there official page. If you are travelling as a couple you can buy the FOUR ticket option which comes with a discount and you have two tickets each.

• Download the app for Apple devices BVG
• Download the app for Android devices  BVG

Prices of the tickets while in AB area of Berlin. (ABC is only when you go to the airport because is further away)

• Single Ticket 3,5€
• Short Trip Ticket 2,40€ (3 stations with S-Bahn or underground, changes permitted, without stop or 6 stations on trams, changes not permitted)
• Four Trip Ticket 10,86€
• Four Short Trip Ticket 7€ (3 stations with S-Bahn or underground, changes permitted, without stop or 6 stations on trams, changes not permitted)
• 24 Hour Ticket 9,90€

3 Rent A Bicycle

As a personal preference I’m always trying to use a bicycle because is easy, cheap and it’s fun! Next is an app available in over 300 hundred cities.

• Download the app for Apple devices NEXT
• Download the app for Android devices NEXT

Price of the bike:

• Basic Tariff is 1€ per every 15 minutes

Another thing to have in mind, always remember to return the bike in a designated parking, if not you will be charged an extra Euro as a punishment.

How To Get To The City Centre From The Airport

Thats all of this three days in Berlin Itinerary! Hopefully will help lots of travellers going to this magnificent city!