Berlin is a city bursting with history, culture, art, and food—two days isn’t nearly enough to cover everything, but with a bit of planning, you can capture the city’s essence. Here’s an itinerary that will take you through Berlin’s must-see sights, local experiences, and best bites in just 48 hours.
Day 1: History, Landmarks, and Iconic Sights

Start at Brandenburg Gate
Kick off your trip with a visit to the Brandenburg Gate, Berlin’s most famous landmark. This neoclassical monument is symbolic of German reunification and makes for a perfect starting point. Snap some photos here and take in its grand scale.
Location: Pariser Platz, Mitte
Tip: Arrive early to avoid crowds and get the best photos.
Visit the Reichstag Building
Just a short walk from the Brandenburg Gate, the Reichstag is the German Parliament building. Its glass dome offers panoramic views of Berlin and is an architectural marvel worth seeing. Be sure to book a visit to the dome in advance.
Location: Platz der Republik, Mitte
Tip: Admission to the dome is free, but you’ll need to reserve a spot ahead of time.
Holocaust Memorial
A few minutes from the Reichstag, you’ll find the haunting Memorial to the Murdered Jews of Europe, also known as the Holocaust Memorial. The concrete slabs form a maze-like structure, evoking a powerful emotional experience.
Location: Cora-Berliner-Straße, Mitte
Lunch at Hackescher Markt
Take a break in Hackescher Markt, a vibrant square filled with cafés, restaurants, and small shops. Choose from German dishes like schnitzel and currywurst, or opt for international cuisine.
Tip: For a quick German bite, try a classic bratwurst from a local vendor.
Explore Museum Island
Head to Museum Island, home to five world-class museums. If you’re short on time, prioritize the Pergamon Museum, known for its ancient artifacts, or the Neues Museum, where you’ll find the famous bust of Nefertiti.
Location: Bodestraße, Mitte
Tip: A Museum Pass is available if you plan to visit multiple museums.
Dinner in Prenzlauer Berg
Take the U-Bahn to Prenzlauer Berg, a trendy neighborhood with a wide variety of restaurants. Whether you’re craving traditional German fare or international dishes, you’ll find it here.
Where to Eat: Try Zur Letzten Instanz, Berlin’s oldest restaurant, for traditional German cuisine.
Night Out in Kreuzberg
End your night in Kreuzberg, one of Berlin’s most dynamic districts, famous for its nightlife. Start with a drink at one of the many bars, then head to a club if you’re up for Berlin’s legendary techno scene.
Where to Go: Check out Club der Visionaere for a laid-back riverside vibe or Berghain for a truly unique experience (note: strict door policy).
Day 2: Art, Culture, and Local Experiences

Breakfast at a Café in Kreuzberg
Start your second day with breakfast in Kreuzberg. This neighborhood is known for its artsy atmosphere and excellent coffee spots. Head to Five Elephant for delicious pastries and a cozy vibe.
East Side Gallery
After breakfast, walk to the East Side Gallery, an open-air gallery featuring murals painted on the longest remaining section of the Berlin Wall. It’s a powerful place to reflect on Berlin’s divided past and a great photo op.
Location: Mühlenstraße, Friedrichshain
Tip: Take your time to appreciate the artwork, each piece has a story to tell.
Lunch at Markthalle Neun
Head to Markthalle Neun in Kreuzberg for lunch. This bustling indoor market offers a variety of food stalls serving everything from German sausages to international street food. If it’s Thursday, you’re in for “Street Food Thursday,” where vendors offer unique dishes from around the world.
Tip: Try the currywurst or get a döner kebab from a local vendor.
Explore Friedrichshain’s Street Art
Berlin is known for its street art, and Friedrichshain has some of the best. Take a self-guided tour of the murals and graffiti around the area, especially on Haus Schwarzenberg and RAW-Gelände.
Tip: There are street art tours available if you want to learn more about the artists and their work.
Dinner and Drinks in Mitte
For your final night, head to Mitte and enjoy a dinner at Clärchens Ballhaus, a historic restaurant and ballroom with a lively atmosphere and classic German dishes.
End with a Rooftop Drink at Klunkerkranich
For a perfect end to your 48 hours in Berlin, grab a drink at Klunkerkranich, a rooftop bar with amazing views of the city skyline. Located atop a shopping center in Neukölln, this spot is a favorite among locals and provides a laid-back, unpretentious vibe.
Location: Karl-Marx-Straße, Neukölln
Tip: Arrive early for sunset views, as this spot can get crowded.