Berlin in 5 days
A day-by-day itinerary · 19 places · Germany
Updated · Every place checked on Google Maps and grouped by area, one area per day.
Welcome to a five-day journey through Berlin where you'll explore iconic landmarks like the Reichstag Building, Brandenburg Gate, and the Holocaust Memorial, gaining insight into the city's rich history and cultural heritage. Enjoy local cuisine at Restaurant Nolle and visit Museum Island with its stunning Berlin Cathedral and Bode Museum for a well-rounded experience of the city's artistic and historical treasures.
Make this trip yours
Your dates, budget and interests, with opening hours for the days you visit.
Day 1
Reichstag Building, Brandenburg Gate, Holocaust Memorial and Zur letzten Instanz
Morning· 1.5 hrs
Reichstag Building
Explore the impressive glass dome designed by Norman Foster, offering panoramic views of Berlin. Join a guided tour inside to learn about Germany's political history and enjoy the innovative architecture.
Berlin · Map
Afternoon· 1 hr
Brandenburg Gate
Stand beneath this historic neoclassical monument that has witnessed Berlin's turbulent history. Take photos and absorb the vibrant atmosphere of Pariser Platz, often lively with street performers and tourists.
Berlin · Map
Afternoon· 1 hr
Holocaust Memorial
Walk through the somber, abstract field of concrete slabs dedicated to Holocaust victims. Reflect amidst the shifting perspectives created by the uneven blocks; a powerful and contemplative experience.
Berlin · MapEvening· 2 hrs
Zur letzten Instanz
Dine at Berlin’s oldest restaurant, renowned for its hearty traditional German cuisine and historic ambiance. Enjoy local specialties like roast pork and sauerkraut in a cozy, centuries-old setting that feels like stepping back in time.
Berlin · Map
Book your tickets for the Reichstag Building in advance to skip long lines and secure a guided tour. Arrive early to enjoy the iconic Brandenburg Gate with fewer crowds and perfect morning light.
Day 2
Museum Island, Berlin Cathedral, Bode Museum and Restaurant Nolle
Morning· 2 hrs
Museum Island
Explore this UNESCO World Heritage site where five world-class museums display ancient artifacts, classical art, and historical treasures. Wander through the grand halls and marvel at the elaborate architecture surrounding the Spree River.
Berlin · Map
Afternoon· 1.5 hrs
Berlin Cathedral
Climb to the top of Berlin's largest church for panoramic views of the city skyline. Inside, admire the ornate interior, stunning mosaics, and the impressive altar, learning about its rich history and architecture.
Berlin · MapAfternoon· 1.5 hrs
Bode Museum
Visit this museum famed for its collection of Byzantine art, sculptures, and coins. Walk through its elegant galleries and enjoy the impressive views from the terrace overlooking the Spree.
Berlin · MapEvening· 2 hrs
Restaurant Nolle
Enjoy a lively dinner at this popular Berlin restaurant known for its modern takes on traditional German cuisine. The vibrant atmosphere makes it an ideal spot for friends to socialize and share a hearty meal.
Berlin · Map
Book tickets for Museum Island attractions online in advance to avoid long lines during peak hours and ensure smooth entry.
Day 3
Treptower Park, Oberbaum Bridge, East Side Gallery and BRLO Brwhouse
Morning· 1.5 hrs
Treptower Park
Relax with a scenic riverside walk through this expansive park, home to the impressive Soviet War Memorial. The lush greenery and riverside views make it a perfect outdoor escape for friends to unwind and chat.
Berlin · Map
Afternoon· 1 hr
Oberbaum Bridge
Cross this historic double-deck bridge known for its stunning Gothic architecture and views of the Spree River. Capture photos of its intricate brickwork and enjoy the lively atmosphere of the surrounding neighborhoods.
Berlin-Bezirk Friedrichshain-Kreuzberg · Map
Afternoon· 1.5 hrs
East Side Gallery
Stroll along the longest remaining section of the Berlin Wall decorated with vibrant murals created by artists from around the world. Take your time to appreciate the powerful messages of freedom and unity expressed through the artwork.
Berlin · MapEvening· 2 hrs
BRLO Brwhouse
Enjoy a lively evening at this popular brewery and restaurant located inside a converted aircraft hangar, known for its craft beers and modern German cuisine. The vibrant atmosphere makes it ideal for group friends to socialize and unwind after a day of exploration.
Berlin-Bezirk Friedrichshain-Kreuzberg · Map
Book tickets online for East Side Gallery to avoid long lines, and visit early in the morning to enjoy it with fewer crowds.
Day 4
Charlottenburg Palace, Kaiser Wilhelm Memorial Church, Kudamm Boulevard and Café Kranzler
Morning· 2 hrs
Charlottenburg Palace
Explore the grand baroque palace with its ornate interiors and lush gardens, immersing yourself in Prussian royal history. The lavish rooms and scenic courtyards offer perfect photo opportunities and a glimpse into 17th-century aristocratic life.
Berlin · Map
Afternoon· 1 hr
Kaiser Wilhelm Memorial Church
Visit the striking ruins of this historic church, a symbol of peace and resilience with its damaged spire and modern refurbishments. The surrounding memorial area is a poignant reminder of Berlin’s wartime history, complemented by nearby shops and cafes.
Berlin · MapAfternoon· 1 hr
Kudamm Boulevard
Stroll along this lively shopping street renowned for its eclectic mix of fashion boutiques, cafes, and street performers. It’s a vibrant area perfect for people-watching and soaking in Berlin’s urban energy while browsing local shops.
Berlin-Bezirk Charlottenburg-Wilmersdorf · Map
Evening· 1-2 hrs
Café Kranzler
Enjoy a classic Berlin coffee experience at this historic café, famous for its elegant ambiance and delicious cakes. It’s the perfect spot to unwind after a day of sightseeing and socialize over a late-night drink or dessert.
Berlin-Bezirk Charlottenburg-Wilmersdorf · Map
Book tickets online in advance for Charlottenburg Palace to skip the long lines and arrive early to enjoy the gardens before the crowds.
Day 5
Potsdam Sanssouci Palace, Potsdam Dutch Quarter and Restaurant Juliette
Morning· 2 hrs
Potsdam Sanssouci Palace
Explore the stunning Rococo architecture and beautifully landscaped gardens of Sanssouci Palace, once the summer residence of Frederick the Great. Wander through the grand halls and enjoy the scenic views of the terraced vineyards surrounding the palace.
Potsdam · Map
Afternoon· 1 hr
Potsdam Dutch Quarter
Stroll through the charming Dutch Quarter with its red-brick buildings and quaint boutiques. Discover local art galleries and cafes, soaking in the historic atmosphere of this unique neighborhood.
Potsdam · MapEvening· 2 hrs
Restaurant Juliette
Enjoy a lively dinner at Restaurant Juliette, known for its cozy ambiance and delicious French-inspired dishes. The vibrant setting makes it a perfect spot to unwind and share stories with friends after a day of exploration.
Potsdam · Map
Book your tickets for Sanssouci Palace online in advance to skip long lines and secure your preferred time slot.
Make this trip yours
Your dates, budget and interests, with opening hours for the days you visit.
Questions
- What should I see on my first day in Berlin?
- This plan starts with Reichstag Building, Brandenburg Gate and Holocaust Memorial, close together so you spend the day exploring instead of travelling.
- Is 5 days enough for Berlin?
- 5 days covers 19 places in this plan, one area of Berlin per day. For more, see the 3-day plan.
- Where should I eat in Berlin?
- Each evening ends near that day's sights: Zur letzten Instanz, Restaurant Nolle, BRLO Brwhouse, Café Kranzler and Restaurant Juliette.
- Can I change this itinerary?
- Yes. Plan Berlin with TripPlano and set your own dates, budget and interests. You get opening hours for the days you visit, travel times between stops and a map, free for trips up to 3 days.