Exploring the great city of Berlin doesn’t have to be an expensive experience! In fact there are plenty of amazing things to do in Berlin which won’t cost you a single Euro! This will ultimately save you money for much greater things such as indulging in a fine German cuisine or purchasing some very nifty souvenirs to remember your trip by. So for some excellent things to do in Berlin which are absolutely free, take a look at the list below;
Explore some fine art in Hackescher Markt
What was once a still muddy swamp outside the Berlin City gates is now home to some of the most awesome art galleries and street art in Berlin. To some really spiffy art check out the side streets near Auguststrasse. In fact make sure you head down on a Thursday so you can catch one of the great opening shows which supply free wine and snacks.
Pay your respects at the Holocaust Memorial
You really can’t come to Berlin and then leave without first visiting this astonishing memorial site which pays tribute to the thousands of Jews which were murdered during the Holocaust. A very moving piece of architecture which was designed and sculpted by a chap named Peter Eisenmann. The memorial is spread out over 2.5 acres of land and has a museum opposite it with all the names of Jews which died during that very dark period of time.
Climb to the top of the glass dome of Reichstag
Built by the very talented architect Norman Foster to symbolize the coming together of Germany, the Reichstag dome has now become one of Berlin’s most famous landmarks due to its unique design. Once you have managed to climb to the top you should be able to look down on the beautiful city of Berlin. I definitely recommend taking a camera with you! The dome once operated on a free come and go as you please system, however you are now required to give 3 days notice before you arrive.
Visit the memorial church in Berlin
Another of Berlin’s renowned landmarks, this crumbling protestant church remains a symbol of the effects war causes. It miraculously and barely survived the air raids which took place during World War II. I definitely recommend taking a look in the memorial hall (Gedenkhalle) to have a look at photos from before the bombing and gaze at the history of the church.
Relax in an afternoon of sunshine at Volkspark
This park is an extremely beautiful place for you to go jogging through or have a nice picnic. There is also the opportunity to play a number of beach sports in its very own reserved are, though it is required to bring your own equipment. Also located in the park are memorials, ponds, fountains and an open air theatre.
Gendarmenmarkt
Renowned for being the most divine square in all of Berlin, Gendarmenmarkt has absolutely awesome ancient buildings. The French cathedral The Französischer Dom and the German cathedral Deutscher Dom both reside in the square, despite the both of them practicing opposing versions of Christianity. I know this is a guide to free attractions in Berlin, however I will say this – if you’re a chocoholic get yourself to Fassbender & Rausch which is just on the corner of Gendarmenmarkt, I promise you that you won’t regret it!
Brandenburg Gate
Last but not least, yes you guessed it – Brandenburg Gate! Perhaps the most famous landmark in Berlin and is considered by tourists and even locals to be the “trademark of Berlin.” It was built in 1788 and has even survived the entirety of World War II! I advise you visit this gem at night when it is really brought to life!
Of course Berlin is jam packed with life and you won’t be hard pressed finding something to do! But when it is free of charge, there really is no excuse for you to get up and see some Berlin’s finest sights!
