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If you are planning to visit Berlin, then this a perfect guide for you. There are many things to do and most of them can be covered in 24 or 48 hours in Berlin, but it is very difficult to pick the best out of those as Berlin offers something for everybody. So if you are planning to visit for a weekend trip to explore this amazing city, then this article will definitely help you plan to get the best out of your Berlin trip.
We had heard lot of Berlin during our childhood days like the Berlin Wall but never got to travel to and explore Germany. Luckily we got to spend 48 hours in Berlin and explore the very best that this city had to offer. Berlin is a vibrant city with rich in history, culture and amazing street life.
How do you get from Berlin airport to the city centre?
There are many ways of travelling from Berlin Brandenburg Airport (BER) to the city centre depending on your preference, time, cost and of course convenience.
- Airport Express Train (FEX) or Regional Trains (RE7, RB14)
- S-Bahn (City Train)
- Taxi
- Airport Shuttle Buses
- Car Rental
Tickets can be purchased digitally through apps like BVG or Deutsche Bahn, or they can be purchased from machines at the airport. Remember to always validate your tickets before the start of your journey to avoid fines.
You can also use the ‘Citymapper‘ App to traverse between any destination in any city. Just enter your destination and it will show your the best ways to reach your destination fastest.
Berlin Welcome Card
We recommend buying the Berlin Welcome Card which is a popular city pass that allows tourists unlimited access to Berlin’s public transportation network which includes U-Bahn, S-Bahn, buses, trams and ferries. Two types of cards can be obtained for AB and ABC Zones, where the ABC Zone card allows access to Berlin Airport as well. Depending on your visit duration, you can plan to buy between 48 hours to 6 days of the Berlin Welcome Card from any of the Tourist Info Points or Welcome Center at the BER Airport or Berlin Central station. You also get a City Guide and Map with your purchase.
This Berlin Welcome Card also provides discounts of up to 50% on over 180 attractions including the Berlin TV Tower, Museum Island, Madame Tussauds and Berlin Dungeon.
You can also opt for the All Inclusive option which provides free entrance to 30+ Berlin highlights including 1 day Hop-on Hop-off bus tour.
Where to stay in Berlin?
We stayed in Mercure Hotel Wittenbergplatz, which is a 4 star hotel which has the best location with great public transport connections. It is a perfect base for the next 2 days with many attractions located close by and also many restaurants with street food options as well. The rooms are spacious, well decorated and has all the required amenities for modern travelers. Buffet breakfast options are also available.
We have a detailed review of the hotel here, so definitely recommend reading it and add it your Berlin plans.
What to See in Berlin in 2 days
Since you are sightseeing Berlin only for a couple of days, we recommend not to fit all the landmarks and attractions of Berlin. Choose only a few select experiences or attractions that cater to your taste and make the most of those to make lovely lifelong memories.
Here is our top list of things to see and do in 48 hours in Berlin.
1.Brandenburg Gate
This is one of the Berlin’s most iconic landmarks – the Brandenburg Gate, a 18th century monument located in Pariser Platz. This neoclassical monument was commissioned by the Prussian king Frederick William II and it is built on the site of an older gate that marked the beginning of the road from Berlin to Brandenburg an der Havel. A perfect photo spot!
2.Berlin Wall at Eastside Gallery
No trip to Berlin is complete without seeing the famous Berlin Wall. Head east towards the Eastside Gallery, which is the longest remaining stretch of the Berlin Wall. This 1.3km wall is like an open-air gallery with artists all over the world having contributed to painting some amazing artworks. Iconic images like the “Fraternal Kiss” between Soviet and East German leaders have become symbols of unity and freedom.
3.Museum Island
This island located on River Spree, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and has five world-class museums and thus the name – Museum Island. Depending on your duration of your visit and interests, you can plan to visit as many museums that fits in your Berlin Itinerary. If you are history lover, then plan to visit Pergamon Museum or if you like art then plan to visit Alte Nationalgalerie.
4. Berlin Cathedral
The Berlin Cathedral or Berlin Dom is the largest protestant church in Germany dominating the city’s skyline and is one of the major attractions to visit in Berlin. The Church has richly decorated architecture, interiors, fascinating history and also offers amazing views of the city from the top. Located on the Museum Island, you can easily spend 2-3 hours here with a climb to the top which is truly worth the efforts.
5. Reichstag
One of Berlin’s most iconic landmark and home to the German Bundestag (Parliament) and with historical significance, Reichstag surely is a must things to do in Berlin. It was destroyed due to fire and also suffered huge damage during the World War II. Visitors can explore the glass dome on top of the building for stunning 360 degrees view of Berlin and learn about the political history of Germany. Make sure to buy your tickets in advance.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Is 2 days enough time to see Berlin?
2 days in Berlin is more than enough to cover most of Berlin’s attractions, explore the food and enjoy the nightlife as well. You can plan ahead and book your tickets in advance. The best time to visit Berlin is from May to September.
What to Eat in Berlin?
During your visit to Berlin, do try the famous Currywurst, Berlin’s iconic street food. Berlin offers a delicious food journey through German tradition and here are some more must-try foods when you are in Berlin which include Doner Kebab, Berliner Pfannkuchen, Schnitzel, Kartoffelsalat (Potato Salad) and Pretzels.
Is Berlin expensive?
Berlin can be considered lesser expensive as comparted to other major European capitals like London, Paris or Amsterdam. It is a relatively affordable city in terms of food, public transport and sightseeing.
Best places to stay in Berlin?
Berlin city offers many options and range of budgets to choose your accommodation from with each having its own vibe and things to do in Berlin. For first time visitors to Berlin, Mitte would be the best area which has many Berlin attractions close by like the Brandenburg Gate, Museum Island and the Berlin TV Tower. Kreuzberg is best area for nightlife and food lovers. Prenzlauer Berg is best suited for families and relaxed travelers. During our Berlin visit, we had an amazing stay at Mercure Hotel Berlin Wittenbergplatz which was well located to many of the Berlin attractions and close to public transport as well.
Use the search engine below to book your accommodation in Berlin suiting your budget and preference.
Hope this article has helped you in planning your perfect trip to Berlin. Don’t forget to check out our other itineraries and things to do at various cities across the world!
