Top 10 Activities in Berlin: Things to do & explore
Experience the capital "in action"
There’s plenty to experience and discover in Berlin. Next to the well-known sights and attractions , the capital offers a wide range of exciting activities and things to do where you can get involved and immerse yourself in the action. Discover exciting day-out ideas, unusual leisure activities, hidden gems and the latest trends – whether indoors or outdoors, come rain or shine.
We’ll show you the best things to do in Berlin: from adventures for adrenaline junkies to family-friendly outings and free highlights. Be inspired – for unforgettable experiences, whether on your own, as a couple or with the whole family.
Tip 1: Top 3 Berlin activities & attractions
You’ve already seen Berlin’s classic sights and want to experience the city from a new perspective? Then it’s worth taking a look at some extraordinary activities that go far beyond traditional sightseeing. Whether it’s an adrenaline rush high above the city’s rooftops, a trip to Berlin’s most impressive open-air historical site, or Berlin’s spookiest historical attraction, these tips showcase Berlin from its most surprising side and guarantee unforgettable moments.
High Swing – Swinging with an adrenaline rush
Experience Berlin from an unusual perspective: on the High Swing, you’ll swing at a height of around 120 metres above the rooftops at Alexanderplatz. The view stretches far beyond the city centre, allowing you to experience familiar landmarks in a whole new light. Only the TV Tower is higher! A Berlin moment with an adrenaline rush that’s sure to stay with you for a long time.
Before you swing out over the edge of the Park Inn Hotel, you’ll receive a brief introduction. And, of course, a safety harness. Then you can enjoy five minutes of freedom on the High Swing, whilst a companion is allowed to take photos. Be sure to bring warm clothing, as there’s often a stronger wind at such lofty heights!
Escape rooms in Berlin, redefined: at EXIT, every visit turns into a story you'll be talking about for weeks. 8 gripping missions with real puzzle fun for teams, families & friends. For those who fancy fresh air: outdoor missions available!
East Side Gallery Berlin – Experience history first-hand
At 1.3 kilometres long, the East Side Gallery is the world’s longest open-air gallery – and also the longest continuous section of the Berlin Wall. 118 artists from 21 different countries have left their mark here. Discover the history behind the artworks on a guided tour. Tip: The banks of the River Spree are just on the other side, so you can follow up your street art tour with a boat trip to the main sights.
Berlin Dungeon – not for the faint-hearted
At the Berlin Dungeon, the city’s dark history is brought to life in an immersive way. Professional actors guide visitors through various episodes based on historical events. All the stories and characters are based on true events.
In a series of shows, visitors encounter figures such as the serial killer Carl Großmann or Catarina Selchow, who was condemned as a witch. Elaborately designed sets, special effects and interactive elements ensure an intense experience. Attractions such as the raft ride or an indoor free-fall tower add to the excitement. Are you brave enough?
Tip 2: Insider tips for things to do in Berlin
Are you looking for that very special activity that will stay in your memory for years to come? Here are our insider tips for particularly daring visitors to Berlin. Our top insider tips for that extra adrenaline rush during your visit to Berlin.
Kienberg Natural Bobsleigh Run – whizzing through the countryside
At speeds of up to 40 kilometres per hour, you’ll whizz down the Kienberg Nature Bobsleigh Run through the park’s countryside into the valley. This activity in Marzahn is a truly special experience, especially for families with children – and it’s right next to the Gardens of the World. When you visit the park – which covers an area the size of 60 football pitches – you’ll discover tropical plants, ceremonies and festivals from all over the world, including, of course, the Japanese Cherry Blossom Festival. A cable car takes you up to the Kienberg.
When: April to September, daily from 10.30 am to 6 pm
House Running – right by Potsdamer Platz
Our tip for anyone looking for a truly special thrill: House Running involves running vertically down the façade. From a dizzying height of 50 metres, you’ll be lowered over the edge of the roof of the Potsdamer Platz Centre building and then run down the wall with your eyes fixed on the ground. Of course, you’re fully secured. So why not just enjoy the view?
Tip: With the Berlin Welcome Card, you’ll get discounts and can also travel for free on all public transport.
Indoor Skydiving in Berlin – the only thing better is actually flying
If you’ve always dreamt of flying, you can make that dream a reality in Berlin. Not far from BER Airport is one of the largest wind tunnel facilities in Germany. The airflow carries you up to 15 metres high. You don’t need any prior experience. Trained instructors will teach you the basics. And you’ll be provided with all the necessary equipment, such as a helmet, ear protectors and goggles, on site.
Where:
- Hurricane Factory, Wassmannsdorfer Allee 3, Schönefeld
- Windobona, Landsberger Allee 268, Lichtenberg
For anyone keen to discover Berlin’s lesser-known sides, we’ve put together even more insider tips here.
Tip 3: The most beautiful day-trip destinations in and around Berlin
If you fancy leaving Berlin behind for a while, you’ll find a surprising amount of nature, tranquillity and variety right on the city’s doorstep. Whether it’s dense forests, vast landscapes or sparkling lakes, the area surrounding Berlin offers ideal conditions for day trips and short breaks.
At the same time, there are also numerous places within the city itself where Berlin shows off its green side. Parks, lakes and historic trails make it easy to combine nature and the city.
The Beelitz Tree-Top Walk and other highlights in the Berlin countryside
The area surrounding Berlin is characterised by extensive nature parks, biosphere reserves and historic sites. A particular highlight is the Beelitz Sanatoriums, situated south-west of Berlin. On the treetop walk, you’ll walk through the treetops at a height of around 20 metres and experience the sanatorium from an unusual perspective. Between the treetops, views of the sprawling, partly overgrown buildings of the former sanatorium open up time and again.
Anyone interested in abandoned places can also explore the Beelitz Sanatorium on guided tours and learn more about the site’s eventful history. Right next door, you can follow the barefoot trail through the adjoining woodland.
The Berlin Wall Cycle Route and more – walking & cycling in Berlin
Even within Berlin, numerous green spaces invite you to enjoy outdoor activities. From Tempelhofer Feld to the Grunewald, there are plenty of opportunities for walking, cycling or simply taking a breath of fresh air. For dog owners , we recommend a trip to Grunewaldsee lake at the Grunewald Hunting Lodge. Here, dogs are allowed to roam freely and even go into the water.
A special highlight is the Berlin Wall Cycle Route, which follows the former course of the Berlin Wall and combines exercise with history. In spring , the TV Asahi cherry blossom avenue blooms along the section between Lichterfelde-Süd and Teltow.
In summer, the lakes and lido beaches in and around Berlin are the perfect place to cool off. Combine your day at the beach with a cycle ride through the Berlin countryside. Our swimming map provides a good overview.
An outing is also well worth it in autumn : the Drachenberg or the Havelhöhenweg offer sweeping views and impressive autumnal landscapes.
Thermal baths and wellness in Berlin and Brandenburg
All year round, but especially on cooler days, a trip into Berlin’s natural surroundings can be wonderfully combined with a day of wellness at one of the nature-oriented thermal spas or a visit to a sauna. Most of the thermal spas in Brandenburg can be easily reached by train from Berlin. Many are nestled within beautiful landscape and nature reserves: from the UNESCO Spreewald Biosphere Reserve to the Uckermark.
Tip 4: Classic leisure activities with a Berlin twist
Boat trips and bathing steamers
Berlin is a delight to explore from the water. On a classic boat tour along the Spree, sit back and watch the major sights glide past – or explore Rummelburger Bay in a pedal boat. You can unwind on a trip aboard a private sauna raft or the Havel Sauna. You can steer the floating sauna yourself or drop anchor if you fancy a dip in the water to cool off. A truly special Berlin experience is a trip on a bathing steamer. Here, you can sit back and relax in the heated whirlpool whilst steering the steamer through Berlin’s canals. Whichever boat tour you choose, you’re sure to experience Berlin from a completely different perspective.
Going to the cinema
Berlin not only features in many films; the capital also caters to a wide audience. As well as the large, traditional cinemas, you’ll find a selection of smaller cinemas in every district, showing a well-curated programme. From a variety of films from European countries to documentaries and experimental art-house and cult films, there’s something for everyone. Throughout the year, film festivals both large and small attract film buffs to the city, led of course by the Berlinale. And in summer, numerous open-air cinemas draw film fans outdoors, offering great cinema under the stars. A true Berlin experience.
Sight-Running & Silent Disco
Fancy getting active whilst discovering Berlin at the same time? Find the 11 best running routesfor your visit to Berlin here. If you prefer guided tours, there are also various providers in Berlin who combine running, jogging or cycling with a city tour. The silent disco tours are particularly great fun, allowing you to explore the Tiergarten, the government district or Museum Island .
Tip 5: Cool activities for young people
Berlin is a city that’s constantly reinventing itself, and this is clearly reflected in its leisure activities. If you’re looking for extraordinary experiences, you’ll find plenty of activities here that are interactive, visually striking and often surprisingly different from traditional sightseeing.
Whether it’s creative experience spaces, exciting team challenges or digital gaming worlds, in Berlin it’s not just about watching, but about getting involved.
Selfie museums & immersive exhibitions
In Berlin’s immersive exhibitions, the boundaries between art, space and visitors blur. Walk-in installations, lighting concepts and interactive elements turn the visit itself into an experience.
Many of these venues are deliberately designed to be visually striking and offer unusual perspectives that lend themselves perfectly to photography. Yet it’s about far more than just taking pictures; it’s about immersing yourself in staged worlds that often lie at the intersection of art, pop culture and digital aesthetics. Discover the best immersive exhibitions and selfie museums here:
Escape games and interactive city experiences
Solve a criminal case, foil a bank robbery, save Berlin from an alien invasion, or embark on a mission that takes you all over the capital. Escape games are among the most versatile group activities in Berlin. Working in small teams, you’ll solve puzzles, piece together clues and work together against the clock. The scenarios range from historical tales to futuristic missions. All over the city, you’ll find providers of fantastic or historically inspired escape games. Hauptmann von Köpenick, for example, offers an exciting alternative to traditional sightseeing.
An alternative for those who prefer to be out in the fresh air are audio walks and scavenger hunts, which allow you to explore Berlin in a playful way.
Gaming, Virtual Reality and Immersive Experiences
Berlin also has plenty to offer when it comes to gaming and digital experiences. Modern arcades and experience centres combine classic games with technologies such as virtual reality or interactive game shows. Whether playing as a team or competing directly against others, the focus here is on the shared experience. Many providers focus on creative concepts that require a balance of movement, strategy and quick reactions. A perfect outing for families travelling with teenagers!
Tip 6: Top Attractions for Children – Activities for the Whole Family
Berlin is a paradise for families. With its sprawling parks, creative venues and exciting museums, there are countless ways to discover the city together with children. Whether it’s a city break or a weekend getaway, many activities are specifically tailored to the needs of young visitors, combining play, physical activity and learning.
From large adventure playgrounds to interactive museums and encounters with animals, Berlin offers a wealth of experiences from a child’s perspective.
For animal lovers of all ages: the Zoo and the Tierpark
Berlin offers extraordinary animal experiences right in the heart of the city. At Berlin Zoo, Europe’s largest landscape zoo, more than 10,000 animals representing over 650 species live across some 160 hectares. Spacious enclosures, daily feeding sessions and play areas ensure a varied family day out. A particular highlight is the dinosaur exhibition, which has been transporting visitors back to times long past since 2023.
The historic Berlin Zoo is centrally located at the Zoologischer Garten. Even the famous Elephant Gate makes a visit an experience in itself. Beyond it lies a diverse animal world that is ideal for a day out with children.
A tip for those on a tighter budget: in many Berlin districts, petting zoos and children’s farmsinvite you to meet the animals.
Tickets for the Zoo & Animal Park
ANOHA – Children’s World at the Jewish Museum
A visit to Noah’s Ark, right in the heart of Berlin: at ANOHA, children discover an interactive world of experiences based on the biblical story. Over 150 animal sculptures, a walk-through wooden ark and numerous hands-on stations invite them to play, experiment and reflect.
Here, children can run, climb, create and work together to find solutions. Educational specialists guide the activities and encourage children to put their own ideas into practice. The focus is on the coexistence of people, animals and nature – a theme that is particularly tangible in a diverse city like Berlin.
Tip: Take a look behind the scenes of the Jewish Museum’s children’s area in our Berlin Unboxed podcast episode on ANOHA. On a guided tour with Dr Ane Kleine-Engel, the centre’s director, you’ll hear fascinating stories about the creation of this lovingly designed ‘Ark’, as well as how children here can experience what it means to live together in a multicultural city like Berlin.
FEZ Wuhlheide – A paradise for children
If you’re planning a whole day full of activities, FEZ Berlin is the perfect place for you. With 100,000 m² of outdoor space and 13,000 m² of indoor space, it is the largest non-profit children’s, youth and family centre in Europe. Here , play, exercise, nature and culture come together . As well as large outdoor areas, there is a theatre, a museum, a swimming pool and even a space centre where children can get hands-on after booking a session. Even the journey there is an experience in itself: the park railway takes visitors directly from Wuhlheide S-Bahn station to the site.
In addition, Berlin offers numerous museums specifically designed for children. At the Labyrinth Children’s Museum, the focus is on hands-on activities and discovery; the MACHmit! Museum for Children combines art and play; and classics such as the ‘ ’ Technology Museum orthe Museum of Natural History delight visitors with interactive exhibitions.
Tip 7: Berlin in the rain – indoor activities
Rain in Berlin is no reason to spend the day indoors – quite the opposite. The city offers a wide range of indoor activities that combine culture, exercise and enjoyment. Whether you’re setting off on a discovery tour of Berlin’s museums , experiencing culinary diversity in historic market halls or wanting to burn off some energy with sport, Berlin remains full of variety even in bad weather. Be inspired and find the best things to do on rainy days here, where cultural experiences and adventures are guaranteed not to fall through.
Discover Museum Island & Berlin’s museums
Berlin has more museums than it has rainy days – over 170 in total – including many highlights such as the Humboldt Forum and Museum Island. Here you can spend hours wandering through spacious halls, admiring ancient treasures, sculptures, paintings and art and culture from a wide range of centuries. Embark on an ethnological journey through time or visit one of Berlin’s more unusual museums. Explore Berlin’s history at the GDR Museum and the Spy Museum, or discover the history of music at the Musical Instrument Museum and pop culture at the Synthesiser Museum.
Historic market halls in Berlin
If the weather isn’t ideal for a stroll, Berlin’s historic market halls offer an atmospheric alternative. The tradition dates back to the 19th century, and even today many of these halls combine architectural charm with modern dining culture.
Here you can discover regional produce, sample international specialities or gain new culinary insights at events such as street food markets, tastings or themed evenings. Places such as Markthalle Neun or the Arminiusmarkthalle are prime examples of this blend of history and the present.
Indoor activities: billiards, bowling and trampoline centres
If you want to burn off some energy even when it’s raining, Berlin offers plenty of indoor options. Trampoline centres offer large jumping areas, obstacle courses and additional features such as foam pits or basketball zones. Bowling is also a straightforward leisure activity that’s ideal for the whole family or group outings. Modern bowling alleys combine bowling with music and dining, turning a visit into a sociable experience. Or how about letting a rainy afternoon drift into the evening whilst playing billiards?
Tip 8: Outdoor activities
Berlin isn’t just urban – it’s also surprisingly green and rich in water. Anyone looking to get some exercise in the fresh air will find plenty of opportunities for active experiences in the city and the surrounding area, ranging from a relaxing day at the pool to sporting challenges. Whether on the water or in wide open spaces, outdoor activities are among the most varied ways to discover Berlin.
Paddling, sailing or going for a swim
Berlin is rich in lakes and bodies of water and offers ideal conditions for activities on and in the water: here, in summer , you canhire a SUP board , go rowing, sailing or swimming. Around Wannsee, Müggelsee and Schlachtensee, you’ll find numerous boat hire outlets, as well as hidden swimming coves and even small sandy beaches.
You’ll find an overview of the most beautiful lakes for swimming in the city and surrounding area on our Berlin Swimming Map. There are also plenty of outdoor pools and historic indoor swimming pools inviting you to take a dip in the refreshing water.
High-rope courses and climbing adventures
Adventurous visitors to Berlin will find a number of exciting challenges here. At the Jungfernheide forest high ropes course, you’ll make your way through the treetops on wobbly bridges and swinging ropes, right in the heart of the forest. The centrally located MountMitte high ropes course is also particularly family-friendly . With six courses of varying difficulty levels, a spectacular skyswing and 35 beach volleyball courts, it’s perfect for an action-packed day out with children and teenagers.
Wind and open spaces: kitesurfing and urban open spaces
Berlin also offers space for unusual outdoor activities. Tempelhofer Feld impresses with a sense of open space that one would hardly expect in the heart of a metropolis. So there’s plenty of space to try something new. Tame the wind whilst kitesurfing, or make use of the kilometre-long tracks for jogging or skating. Thanks to the wide range of equipment available for hire, nothing stands in the way of spontaneous adventures. And as the sky turns colour in the evening, there’s no better way to round off the day than in one of the cafés or beer gardens on the edge of the field.
Tip 9: Activities on a budget
Berlin doesn’t have to be expensive. Many of the city’s best experiences are free or cost very little, ranging from cultural highlights and nature experiences to spontaneous leisure activities. If you explore Berlin thoughtfully, you can experience a lot even on a tight budget. Whether you’re out and about, getting creative or simply curious about the city, these tips show just how diverse Berlin can be, even without a big budget.
Dancing under the summer sky
Dancing is pure joy, and Berlin is the perfect setting for it in summer. As the nights get warmer, the dance scene moves outdoors. Almost all the city’s tango schools attract visitors with open-air workshops and milongas, for example at the Spreebogen in the government district or in Monbijou Park opposite the Bode Museum. Many of these are free and offer an introduction at the start of the event for anyone keen to take their first steps. But even outside the summer months, the city stays in rhythm: throughout the year, you’ll find plenty of lively opportunities in Berlin for tango, salsa or disco fox, such as at Clärchens Ballhaus. And don’t worry if you’re coming on your own: dance partners seem to appear on the dance floor almost as if by magic.
Climb up to Berlin’s viewing points
Incidentally, you don’t necessarily have to jump off a rooftop in Berlin to enjoy a panoramic view. Away from the hustle and bustle of the city, the Müggelturm, with its 30-metre-high viewing platform, offers a fantastic view of the wooded landscape of Köpenick and the nearby Müggelsee. You can also climb the Grunewaldturm during a trip to the Grunewald. Right next door, a lovely beer garden invites you to linger. In the city centre, the Victory Column offers a fantastic view over the Tiergarten and Berlin. A ticket costs 4.50 euros (cash only). The view from St Matthew’s Church at the Kulturforum is even more affordable.
You ’ll also have a fantastic view over the Grunewald from the iconic Teufelsberg , and from the Panoramapunkt or the Weltballon you can enjoy the view across the whole city.
Panoramapunkt
Discover street art
The whole of Berlin is one big open-air gallery. What began as a rebellious protest back in the 1970s has now turned the capital into a global mecca for urban art . All over the city, huge murals, intricate tags and colourful lettering reflect the spirit of the times. From the historic paintings by Thierry Noir at the East Side Gallery to gigantic murals and the projects by URBAN NATION – the street art scene is as dynamic as Berlin itself. We’ve put together a list of the best street art hotspots for you. Join us on a free discovery tour.
Long nights: activities for night owls
A particular highlight of the year is Berlin’s Long Nights. Here, you can take a peek behind the scenes at scientific institutions and political organisations. Universities often offer insights into their fields of research in a very playful and family-friendly way. And during the Long Night of Museums , a single ticket grants you access to all of Berlin’s major cultural institutions.
Tip 10: Sporting activities
Berlin offers ideal conditions for anyone who wants to burn off some energy whilst on holiday or at the weekend. From urban trend sports and classic exercise options to unusual indoor experiences, there are countless ways to combine sport with fun and variety. Whether on your own, with friends or in a group, many activities are accessible even without prior experience and can be fitted into your day at short notice. If you’d also like to meet some genuine Berliners, you’ve come to the right place.
Bouldering & Climbing
You don’t need a rope or bolts for bouldering. You can usually hire shoes at the centres – and if necessary, a clean pair of indoor trainers will do just fine to start with. As bouldering takes place just a few metres above the floor – which is, of course, softly padded – this sport is also ideal for beginners.
But be warned: it’s still quite a workout to scramble up and along the walls. There are usually various routes with different levels of difficulty. A sense of achievement is guaranteed! If you’d rather climb outdoors, we recommend the Kegel or one of Berlin’s climbing parks , such as the MountMitte high ropes course or the Jungfernheide forest high ropes course.
Learn new tricks at the skate park
No matter what you’re on – whether it’s a skateboard, a wheelchair or roller skates – you’ll find the perfect challenge at the skate hall. There’s an area for mini-ramps, a 400-square-metre bowl and, of course, a street course with plenty of space for open skate sessions. You can hone your skills in workshops and training sessions, such as the after-work skate sessions for adult beginners and those getting back into the sport.
Tip: ZIK (Zeit ist knapp | Centre for International Arts) is currently hosting roller skating sessions in the temporarily repurposed premises of the former Globetrotter at Steglitzer Kreisel, Schloßstraße 78–82.
Where: Revaler Straße 99, Friedrichshain
Indoor surfing at Wellenwerk
Surfing in Berlin? Of course! At Wellenwerk, you’ll find the perfect surfing conditions. Whether you’re a beginner or a pro, the artificial wave can be adjusted to suit your skill level at the touch of a button. And with the water at 26 degrees, it’s no big deal if you fall off your board. For anyone who simply can’t get enough after their first ride on the wild wave, there are various courses on offer.
Where: Landsberger Allee 270, Lichtenberg
When: By appointment only
Winter activities: Sledging & ice skating
Of course, there’s plenty on offer for sport-loving visitors in winter too. When there’s snow on the ground, cross-country skiers gather at Tempelhofer Feld, whilst parks are bustling with families and children on bobsleighs and sledge.
And around Christmas time, you can spin pirouettes whilst ice-skating not only in the stadiums but also at many Christmas markets. We’ve put together a list of the best toboggan runs and ice rinks for spinning pirouettes here for you.
Winter sports
