10 Free Things to Do in Berlin

European capitals have a reputation for being expensive, so I was pleasantly surprised to discover how affordable Berlin is, particularly compared to other major cities like London or Paris. Even better, this artistic city offers dozens of entertaining activities and enriching sites that are completely free. These are a few of my favourite things to do in Berlin without spending a single Euro.

Explore the Memorial Church

The Memorial Church might just be one of Berlin’s most arresting landmarks. The original church, which was built in the 1890s, was severely damaged during an air raid in the Second World War. In the 1960s, an ultra-modern church was built beside the historic original, creating a remarkable juxtaposition between the crumbling spire of the old church and the unusual octagonal shape of its avant-garde neighbour. The ground floor of the original church is free to explore, home to some compelling mosaics as well as photos documenting the church’s history.

Sing at Mauerpark Karaoke

Every Sunday afternoon, locals and tourists alike gather in Mauerpark to watch brave and talented (some more than others) singers step up to the mic in the stone amphitheatre nicknamed the ‘bearpit’.  Elbow your way into the crowd and find a spot for this open-air karaoke show, or even put your name down for a song if you feel the call to the stage.

Browse the Markets

Markets are almost always an exciting way to throw yourself into the middle of the community and get a feel for its distinct atmosphere. Berlin is no exception, with numerous markets throughout the city hosting regular food and/or flea markets. The weekly market on Winterfeldtplatz is one of Berlin’s largest and most well-known, selling everything from veggies and cheese to clothing and household items. A popular flea market also takes place in Mauerpark on Sundays, combining easily with a trip to see the park’s karaoke performances. 

Check Out the Art at the East Side Gallery

Among Berlin’s most famous attractions, the East Side Gallery is a series of murals painted on the longest remaining section of the Berlin Wall. The gallery was painted by more than one hundred artists from countries around the world after the fall of the Berlin Wall, which once divided the city into East and West Berlin. Stretching for a little over a kilometer, this intriguing open-air gallery is not only beautiful, but serves as a poignant tribute to the importance of freedom and creative expression.

Stop by Checkpoint Charlie

Checkpoint Charlie was one of the main crossing points between East and West Berlin during the Cold War, a place of high tension and historical drama. The path of the former wall is marked in the street with cobblestones, and you can see copies of the checkpoint guardhouse and a sign designating the border crossing.

 Visit the Reichstag

Constructed in the late 19th century, the Reichstag building is the seat of German parliament. In addition to being a big, beautiful old building that is well-worth seeing, visitors are free to ascend to its rooftop dome. The dome offers picturesque 360-degree views over Berlin, and of the main hall of parliament below.

See the Brandenburg Gate

The Brandenburg Gate was originally built in the 18th century as a symbol of peace, but later came to represent the division of Berlin during the Cold War, when it became incorporated into the Berlin Wall. When the Cold War ended in 1989, the Brandenburg Gate reopened and came to represent the optimism of new Germany and reunified Berlin. In addition to its historical significance, the gate’s architecture was inspired by the Acropolis in Athens and it’s a truly beautiful monument.

Walk through the Memorial to the Murdered Jews of Europe

This sombre memorial was erected in remembrance of the millions of Jews who lost their lives during the Holocaust.  The memorial consists of over 2,000 gray stone slabs of varying heights, arranged to create a confusing and disorienting experience for visitors who walk amid them. The memorial also includes an underground information centre dedicated to the memorial’s conception and paying respect to the victims of the Holocaust.

Go for Stroll in Tempelhof Park

Set on the grounds of the former Tempelhof Airport, Tempelhof Park is more than just an extensive green space. First built in the 1920s, Tempelhof was expanded under Nazi rule and became the largest building in the world when it reopened in 1939. Repurposed as a public park, Tempelhof is almost always filled with people jogging, cycling, and skating on the former landing strips; and flying kites, picnicking, or practicing urban farming in the rambling field.

Get Lost

It’s a common piece of travel advice, but one that typically proves true: The most rewarding experiences happen when you give yourself time to wander around with no fixed plans. Getting lost is particularly enjoyable in Berlin, where each neighbourhood has its own flavour. For example, Charlottenburg-Wilmersdorf is geared towards an upscale crowd; Kreuzberg is more bohemian; and many of the city’s main attractions and interesting historic buildings can be found in Mitte.

Do you like being the first to know?

If you enjoy always getting the best tips, deals and insider news before everyone else then make sure to follow us on Facebook and Twitter.