Berlin is one of the most diverse and buzzing cities in Europe and the list of activities and attractions to do here is endless. Germany’s capital has it all, from history and politics to art and a vibrant nightlife, complemented by an equally thrilling haven for foodies.

To be honest, it is quite impossible to explore all the different Kieze (neighbourhoods) in just 24 hours. But fear not, if you are short on time, most of Berlin’s tourist attractions can easily be reached with hop-on hop-off buses. Plus, we have created this one day itinerary with our favourite places for you to make the most out of one day in Berlin.

TV Tower and Alexanderplatz

There is no better place to start your city tour in Berlin than Alexanderplatz. It is a major public square from back in the days when the GDR still existed. Today it is also home to a lot of hotels, shops and the infamous Fernsehturm (TV Tower), one of Berlin’s most defining landmarks. To get a breath-taking panorama view of the city, you can take the elevator up to the tower’s viewing platform.

Brandenburg Gate and surroundings

Then we recommend heading to Berlin’s most iconic and world famous landmark, the Brandenburg Gate. Once the symbol of the country’s separation between West and East Berlin, it is now a symbol of the German reunification. Just around the corner, you will find Germany’s parliament and centre of power, the Deutsche Bundestag. If you fancy seeing the impressive glass dome from inside and learn more about its history, make sure to book your tickets well in advance.

If you feel like getting some fresh air, you will find one of Berlin’s most popular parks, Tiergarten, right behind the Brandenburg Gate. You can not only enjoy the park’s greenery here but also make your way to the Siegessäule (Victory Column) in its centre. Once created as a monument for Prussia's victory in the Franco-German war, tourists nowadays can climb the 270 steps for a spectacular view over the luscious green heart of Berlin.

Berlin Wall and Checkpoint Charlie

If you want to dive deeper into Germany’s history, follow Niederkirchnerstraße from Brandenburg Gate. From here you can walk to one of the longest remaining sections of the Berlin Wall and Checkpoint Charlie. Here, you can find more insights into Berlin’s history along with the remaining pieces of the Wall and numerous examples of graffiti. The museum at Checkpoint Charlie gives a glimpse into the ingenuine and creative ways people used to escape from East to West Berlin.

Museum Island

Museum Island is a World Heritage Site and inhabits five of Berlin’s most well-known museums. All of them take visitors on a journey through space and time. They show a variety of exhibits from Ancient Egyptian artifacts to portraits and sculptures of the 19th century. While you are there, do not miss out on casting a glance at the richly ornamented interiors of the Berlin Cathedral.

Explore the diverse food scene

By the evening, you will likely have worked up an appetite from all the sightseeing. Head South from Museum Island to the neighbourhoods of Kreuzberg, Friedrichshain and Prenzlauer Berg. Here, you will find some of Berlin’s best and culturally most diverse restaurants as well street food stalls, enjoyed by locals and tourists alike.

Experience the vibrant nightlife

When thinking of Berlin at night, it is almost impossible to not think about its legendary night clubs and urban legends revolving around bouncers. In famous clubs like Berghain, you can dance your heart out all night long. Alternatively, you can explore one of Berlin’s multiple bars.

For example, you can enjoy a drink with a beautiful view in one of the rooftop bars or head to the Berlin Icebar for an unique icy experience. There, you can enjoy your beer at -10°C degrees while experiencing a German expedition to the North Pole from up close.