Still wondering what to do in Berlin? Opodo has the top must-see plans so you won't miss a thing. Find everything you need to know before picking your stay in Berlin and book your hotel today!
Berlin is a captivating city of immense historical significance, defined by its resilience and creativity. It is a destination where the echoes of the 20th century are visible on almost every corner, from the iconic Brandenburg Gate—the symbol of German reunification—to the poignant remnants of the Berlin Wall Memorial and the striking street art of the East Side Gallery.
Beyond its powerful history, Berlin is a modern cultural powerhouse. You can explore the vast collection of world-class institutions on Museum Island, climb the dome of the Reichstag Building (the German Parliament), or enjoy the immense green space of the Tiergarten. From the buzzing life of Potsdamer Platz to the historic remnants of Checkpoint Charlie, Berlin is an engaging, unforgettable European capital.
Berlin is huge and sprawling, with highlights spread across several diverse districts. Choosing a hotel near a major transport hub is crucial to efficiently exploring the city's vast historical and cultural landscape.
The central district of Mitte is the ideal choice for first-time visitors. Staying here puts you within walking distance of the most famous sites, including the Brandenburg Gate, Museum Island, the Berlin Cathedral, and the Reichstag Building. This area offers the best mix of historical significance and excellent transport links via the U-Bahn and S-Bahn network.
For a trendier, more vibrant atmosphere, consider the neighbourhoods of Prenzlauer Berg or Friedrichshain. Friedrichshain is great for nightlife and for visiting the East Side Gallery, while Prenzlauer Berg offers charming pre-war architecture, cafes, and a more bohemian feel. Both are well-connected by public transport.
Berlin is served by Berlin Brandenburg Airport (BER), with train services providing a fast link to the city's main train stations, such as Berlin Hauptbahnhof (Central Station). The U-Bahn (underground) and S-Bahn (overground) network is one of the best in the world, making it easy to travel around. A hotel near a major interchange like Alexanderplatz or Potsdamer Platz will allow you to quickly reach every corner of the city.
Hotel prices in Berlin are largely stable throughout the year, but peak demand and prices occur during major trade fairs, conferences, and conventions, which are held frequently. The summer months, June to August, are also expensive due to the pleasant weather and popular outdoor festivals.
For the best value, plan your trip for the quietest periods, which are often January and February, or during the summer school holiday weeks when business travel drops. A unique tip for Berlin is to avoid booking during major holiday periods and always check the local trade fair calendar, as prices will spike city-wide. Furthermore, while the central Mitte district is convenient, staying in well-connected adjacent neighbourhoods like Schöneberg or Kreuzberg often yields lower rates without sacrificing accessibility.