# Berlin Sightseeing – What to See and Experience in Germany’s Capital

- Link: https://warsawtravelers.pl/en/europe/germany-what-did-we-see-in-berlin/
- Published: 2024-10-14T01:09:53+02:00
- Author: Filip Chochół

Ten wpis jest również dostępny w języku:  [⌊Switch to Polski⌉Polski](https://warsawtravelers.pl/europa/niemcy-co-zobaczylismy-w-berlinie/)

 Table of contents

## Hello! 👋

During our trip to Berlin, we had the opportunity to visit several places that will
definitely stay in our minds. The city did not impress us with its appearance, but
it has something about it that makes it different from other European capitals. 
This was not a typical tourist trip, because instead of beautiful sights and charming
corners, Berlin showed us its more austere and mundane side. In this article we 
describe what we saw and how we evaluated our experience of the city.

If you are interested in a broader picture of our trip, [we invite you to read the summary article](https://warsawtravelers.pl/en/europe/germany-motorcycle-journey-to-berlin/).
There you will find more details about the route, practical tips and our overall
impressions of the trip.

## The Berlin Wall

_German: Die Berliner Mauer_

The Berlin Wall is one of the most important historical sites we visited in Berlin.
Built in 1961, it divided the city into East and West for almost three decades. 
It became a symbol of the Cold War and the division of the world into two hostile
blocs. In 1989, after the wall fell, Berlin was reunited, and today its remains 
serve as a memorial to the turbulent times of division.

 [ ⌊Berlin Wall mural in Berlin, Germany, featuring two stylized faces and the word CLUB⌉ ](https://warsawtravelers.pl/cdn-cgi/image/quality=80,format=auto,onerror=redirect,metadata=none/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/germany-berlin-003-mfrh-original-scaled.jpg)

 [ ⌊The Berlin Wall covered in colorful graffiti along the river in Berlin, Germany⌉ ](https://warsawtravelers.pl/cdn-cgi/image/quality=80,format=auto,onerror=redirect,metadata=none/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/germany-berlin-002-mfrh-original-scaled.jpg)

 [ ⌊Woman standing in front of a colorful mural on the Berlin Wall in Berlin, Germany.⌉ ](https://warsawtravelers.pl/cdn-cgi/image/quality=80,format=auto,onerror=redirect,metadata=none/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/germany-berlin-004-mfrh-original-scaled.jpg)

 [ ⌊The Berlin Wall mural in Berlin showing two men kissing.⌉ ](https://warsawtravelers.pl/cdn-cgi/image/quality=80,format=auto,onerror=redirect,metadata=none/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/germany-berlin-001-mfrh-original-scaled.jpg)

 [ ⌊Two people posing in front of colorful graffiti on the Berlin Wall in Berlin, Germany⌉ ](https://warsawtravelers.pl/cdn-cgi/image/quality=80,format=auto,onerror=redirect,metadata=none/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/germany-berlin-005-mfrh-original-scaled.jpg)

One of the most famous parts of the Berlin Wall is the East Side Gallery. There 
you will find murals created by artists from around the world who have transformed
the site into a living gallery of symbols of freedom. As you walk along the Wall,
you can feel not only the traces of the past, but also the energy of hope and change
that the artists have expressed on the walls. Each work of art captures a personal
interpretation of historical events, creating a unique combination of the past with
a vision of a better future.

## BMW Motorrad, Berlin Plant

_German: BMW Group Werk Berlin_

During our visit to Berlin, a tour of the BMW Group Werk Berlin was not to be missed.
For motorcycle fans, this is a unique place where you can see the entire production
process of motorcycles, including models like the BMW R1250GS that we rode to Berlin
on.

Tours of the factory are easy to book online, but it is important to pay attention
to the language of the guide. We were convinced that we had chosen an English tour,
but it turned out to be the opposite – the entire tour was in German. I understand
a few words of that language, but Jadzia knows absolutely nothing – zero, zero, 
as the Germans say. Fortunately, the guide took pity on us from time to time and
briefly translated what he was saying to the group into English. Still, the tour
was not as interesting as it could have been if it had been entirely in English.

We saw the entire motorcycle production process, which was fascinating, especially
knowing our motorcycle came from this factory in 2023. Despite the language barrier,
it was still valuable to observe how the machines we later ride are built. For Jadzia,
however, the tour felt a bit boring since she couldn’t follow much of the conversation

 [ ⌊BMW Motorrad Werk Berlin display motorcycle with ornate red seats and a weathered body on a wooden floor⌉ ](https://warsawtravelers.pl/cdn-cgi/image/quality=80,format=auto,onerror=redirect,metadata=none/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/germany-berlin-006-mfrh-original-scaled.jpg)

 [ ⌊BMW logo sign on a brick wall⌉ ](https://warsawtravelers.pl/cdn-cgi/image/quality=80,format=auto,onerror=redirect,metadata=none/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/germany-berlin-007-mfrh-original-scaled.jpg)

 [ ⌊BMW R18 motorcycle on display at BMW Motorrad Werk in Berlin, Germany.⌉ ](https://warsawtravelers.pl/cdn-cgi/image/quality=80,format=auto,onerror=redirect,metadata=none/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/germany-berlin-008-mfrh-original-scaled.jpeg)

 [ ⌊BMW Motorrad Werk in Berlin, with a painted bear statue in front of the building⌉ ](https://warsawtravelers.pl/cdn-cgi/image/quality=80,format=auto,onerror=redirect,metadata=none/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/germany-berlin-009-mfrh-original-scaled.jpg)

Photography and cell phone use are prohibited on the factory grounds, so we were
unable to capture the manufacturing process. There are lockers where you can safely
leave your belongings. However, there is a museum in front of the factory entrance
where we took some photos of interesting vehicles.

_👉 You can purchase tickets for the tour on the official website – [click here](https://www.visit-bmwgroup.com/erleben/fuehrung-werk-berlin/)._

## Berlin-Tempelhof Airport

_German: Flughafen Tempelhof_

While visiting Berlin, we literally accidentally landed at Tempelhof, one of Europe’s
most famous and historic airports. Tempelhof Airport played a key role during World
War II and during the Berlin Airlift in 1948-1949. It is a place full of history
that has been a symbol of a divided Berlin for years.

In addition to its rich history, Tempelhof held significant importance for Poles,
particularly during the communist era. During the 1970s and 1980s, it became a key
destination for hijacked LOT Polish Airlines planes. At a time when travel to the
West was heavily restricted, many saw hijacking as one of the few ways to escape
to the free world.

The airport was in the U.S. zone of West Berlin, making it a “safe” landing spot
for those who risked hijacking to escape Poland. At the time, there were at least
13 documented hijackings of Polish LOT planes that ended up landing at Tempelhof.
As a result, there was a joke among Poles that the acronym LOT stood for “ Landing
at Tempelhof” – which perfectly reflected the frequency of such events.

 [ ⌊A couple taking a selfie at Berlin Tempelhof Airport under dramatic clouds.⌉ ](https://warsawtravelers.pl/cdn-cgi/image/quality=80,format=auto,onerror=redirect,metadata=none/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/germany-berlin-013-mfrh-original-scaled.jpg)

 [ ⌊Berlin Tempelhof Airport runway under a wide sky with large clouds⌉ ](https://warsawtravelers.pl/cdn-cgi/image/quality=80,format=auto,onerror=redirect,metadata=none/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/germany-berlin-010-mfrh-original-scaled.jpg)

 [ ⌊Woman sitting cross-legged on the runway at Berlin Tempelhof Airport under a cloudy sky.⌉ ](https://warsawtravelers.pl/cdn-cgi/image/quality=80,format=auto,onerror=redirect,metadata=none/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/germany-berlin-011-mfrh-original-scaled.jpg)

 [ ⌊Berlin-Tempelhof airfield with the historic terminal building and open runway under a blue sky⌉ ](https://warsawtravelers.pl/cdn-cgi/image/quality=80,format=auto,onerror=redirect,metadata=none/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/germany-berlin-012-mfrh-original-scaled.jpeg)

Today, the airport is no longer operating in its original function, but the area
has been transformed into a huge park, accessible to locals and tourists. The former
runways now serve as paths for cyclists, joggers and walkers. It’s a unique place
where you can see the remains of the former airport infrastructure and feel the 
atmosphere of the old days.

## Checkpoint Charlie

Checkpoint Charlie is one of the most iconic Cold War crossing points that separated
East and West Berlin. Situated on Friedrichstrasse, it served as a critical location
where Allied forces and citizens could cross the heavily fortified border between
East Berlin (controlled by East Germany) and West Berlin (controlled by West Germany)
during the city’s division. This checkpoint became a symbol of the Cold War tensions
and the division between the communist and capitalist worlds.

For us, it was an interesting trip back in time to see how the place looks today
in the context of the symbolism of the division of the world into two hostile blocs.
Today, Checkpoint Charlie is a tourist attraction, surrounded by a museum and exhibitions
that tell the story of the Berlin Wall, the Cold War, and the many dramatic attempts
to escape from East Germany to the West.

 [ ⌊Checkpoint Charlie in Berlin, with the U.S. Army checkpoint booth and an American flag.⌉ ](https://warsawtravelers.pl/cdn-cgi/image/quality=80,format=auto,onerror=redirect,metadata=none/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/germany-berlin-014-mfrh-original-scaled.jpg)

 [ ⌊Cracked window at Checkpoint Charlie in Berlin, Germany, with a museum poster behind the glass⌉ ](https://warsawtravelers.pl/cdn-cgi/image/quality=80,format=auto,onerror=redirect,metadata=none/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/germany-berlin-015-mfrh-original-scaled.jpeg)

 [ ⌊Checkpoint Charlie sign in Berlin with a Soviet soldier portrait above the street.⌉ ](https://warsawtravelers.pl/cdn-cgi/image/quality=80,format=auto,onerror=redirect,metadata=none/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/germany-berlin-016-mfrh-original-scaled.jpg)

## Topography of Terror

_German: Dokumentationszentrum Topographie des Terrors_

Topography of Terror is a place that we believe should be a mandatory stop for Poles
visiting Berlin. Located on the site of the former headquarters of the Gestapo, 
the SS and the Nazi Main Security Office, it documents the brutal actions of the
Nazi regime. In addition, the exhibits detail the persecution that affected millions
of people, including many victims from Poland. For this reason, this memorial has
a special significance for Poles, given the enormity of the suffering experienced
by our nation during World War II.

For us, it was an extremely shocking and thought-provoking visit, reminding us of
Nazi crimes and victims that should never be forgotten. What’s more, the Topography
of Terror has an austere, minimalist feel that heightens the weight of history and
the emotions the place evokes. It is worth mentioning that the museum is free of
charge, which is an important aspect. Given the subject matter, it would be downright
inappropriate to charge admission to such a place.

This allows any visitor, regardless of financial assets, to learn about the brutal
history of Nazi crimes.

_👉 For more information, visit the official website – [click here](https://www.topographie.de/en/)._

 [ ⌊Berlin Terror Museum in Germany, with visitors walking along a historic exhibition site under a blue sky⌉ ](https://warsawtravelers.pl/cdn-cgi/image/quality=80,format=auto,onerror=redirect,metadata=none/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/germany-berlin-019-mfrh-original-scaled.jpg)

 [ ⌊Berlin Terror Museum ruins under a glass canopy in Berlin, Germany⌉ ](https://warsawtravelers.pl/cdn-cgi/image/quality=80,format=auto,onerror=redirect,metadata=none/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/germany-berlin-018-mfrh-original-scaled.jpg)

 [ ⌊Ruins at the Berlin Terror Museum in Berlin, Germany, under a glass canopy.⌉ ](https://warsawtravelers.pl/cdn-cgi/image/quality=80,format=auto,onerror=redirect,metadata=none/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/germany-berlin-017-mfrh-original-scaled.jpg)

## Potsdamer Platz

Potsdamer Platz is one of the fastest growing areas in Berlin, combining modern 
architecture with a rich historical heritage. During the Second World War, the square
was almost completely destroyed. After the war, during the years of the Berlin Wall,
the area was a dead zone separating the eastern and western parts of the city.

Today, Potsdamer Platz symbolizes the rebirth of Berlin after German reunification.
Here you can see impressive skyscrapers and futuristic buildings designed by world-
famous architects. It has also become a modern center of business, culture and entertainment.
There are numerous cinemas, theaters, restaurants and shops, making Potsdamer Platz
a popular tourist destination.

Thanks to these changes, the square today serves as an example of Berlin’s transformation
into a dynamic city that combines history and modernity.

 [ ⌊Berlin Potsdamer Platz with a clock tower and modern high-rises, with a man in the foreground⌉ ](https://warsawtravelers.pl/cdn-cgi/image/quality=80,format=auto,onerror=redirect,metadata=none/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/germany-berlin-020-mfrh-original-scaled.jpg)

 [ ⌊Berlin Potsdamer Platz with modern high-rise buildings and traffic under a blue sky⌉ ](https://warsawtravelers.pl/cdn-cgi/image/quality=80,format=auto,onerror=redirect,metadata=none/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/germany-berlin-021-mfrh-original-scaled.jpg)

 [ ⌊A woman stands at Potsdamer Platz station in Berlin, Germany, in front of modern glass buildings.⌉ ](https://warsawtravelers.pl/cdn-cgi/image/quality=80,format=auto,onerror=redirect,metadata=none/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/germany-berlin-022-mfrh-original-scaled.jpeg)

## Memorial to the Murdered Jews of Europe

_German: Denkmal für die ermordeten Juden Europas_

The Memorial to the Murdered Jews of Europe is one of the most emotional places 
in Berlin. Built in honor of the six million Jewish victims of the Holocaust, it
is located near the Brandenburg Gate, emphasizing its role as a central memorial.

The memorial consists of 2,711 concrete pillars of different heights that form a
labyrinth. Walking among them, one senses not only an unimaginable history, but 
also a symbolic sense of loss that alludes to the fate of the Holocaust victims.
This place invites deep reflection and is an integral part of Berlin’s memory space.

 [ ⌊Berlin’s Memorial to the Murdered Jews of Europe, a field of concrete slabs under a clear blue sky.⌉ ](https://warsawtravelers.pl/cdn-cgi/image/quality=80,format=auto,onerror=redirect,metadata=none/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/germany-berlin-024-mfrh-original-scaled.jpeg)

 [ ⌊The Memorial to the Murdered Jews of Europe in Berlin, with rows of concrete stelae under a blue sky.⌉ ](https://warsawtravelers.pl/cdn-cgi/image/quality=80,format=auto,onerror=redirect,metadata=none/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/germany-berlin-023-mfrh-original-scaled.jpg)

## The Brandenburg Gate

_German: Brandenburger Tor_

The Brandenburg Gate is one of Berlin’s most iconic landmarks, symbolizing the city’s
history and rebirth after the Cold War. Built in 1791, it was originally intended
to be a triumphal gate symbolizing peace. Its architecture was inspired by ancient
Greece. However, it became a symbol of the division of Germany when it stood for
years on the border between East and West Berlin, in the death zone around the Berlin
Wall.

After the reunification of Germany in 1989, the Brandenburg Gate became a symbol
of the country’s peace and unity. It now attracts millions of tourists from all 
over the world to see this historic site.

At the top of the gate is the famous Quadriga. The statue represents Victoria, the
goddess of victory, driving a chariot drawn by four horses. Over the years, the 
Gate has witnessed many important events. These include triumphal marches, destruction
during wars, and political demonstrations. After the fall of the Berlin Wall in 
1989, it became a symbol of German reunification and a new, united Europe.

 [ ⌊Selfie of two people at the Brandenburg Gate in Berlin, Germany.⌉ ](https://warsawtravelers.pl/cdn-cgi/image/quality=80,format=auto,onerror=redirect,metadata=none/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/germany-berlin-026-mfrh-original-scaled.jpg)

 [ ⌊Brandenburg Gate in Berlin, Germany, with construction barriers in front⌉ ](https://warsawtravelers.pl/cdn-cgi/image/quality=80,format=auto,onerror=redirect,metadata=none/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/germany-berlin-025-mfrh-original-scaled.jpg)

## The Parliament Building

_German: Deutscher Bundestag_

The German Parliament is one of Berlin’s most recognizable landmarks and an important
symbol of modern German democracy. The Reichstag building, which now houses the 
Bundestag, has a long and turbulent history. It was completed in 1894 to serve as
the seat of the German parliament. In 1933, however, the Reichstag was destroyed
in a fire that symbolically ushered in the era of Nazi terror. As a result, the 
building remained in ruins for many years.

After Germany reunited, the government chose to rebuild the Reichstag. The modernization
finished in 1999, and the building once again served as the home of the German parliament.
A glass dome was added at this time, symbolizing the transparency of German democracy.
This modern feature gave the Reichstag a contemporary look and new significance,
aligning with the values of a unified and democratic Germany. Visitors can now view
parliamentary sessions from the dome, highlighting the openness of the political
process.

_👉 For more information, visit the official government website – [click here](https://www.bundestag.de/en)._

 [ ⌊Woman standing outside the Bundestag in Berlin, Germany, with the German flag above the building.⌉ ](https://warsawtravelers.pl/cdn-cgi/image/quality=80,format=auto,onerror=redirect,metadata=none/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/germany-berlin-027-mfrh-original-scaled.jpeg)

 [ ⌊Berlin Bundestag building with a German flag, viewed from a cobblestone square on a sunny day⌉ ](https://warsawtravelers.pl/cdn-cgi/image/quality=80,format=auto,onerror=redirect,metadata=none/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/germany-berlin-028-mfrh-original-scaled.jpeg)

## German Chancellor’s Office

_German: Bundeskanzleramt_

The Bundeskanzleramt is the German Chancellor’s headquarters and one of the world’s
largest government buildings. Opened in 2001, the building is located in the government
district of Berlin, near the Reichstag and the Brandenburg Gate. It is an impressive
example of modern architecture, designed by Axel Schultes and Charlotte Frank, characterized
by its simple but monumental form.

The Bundeskanzleramt building is a key symbol of modern Germany and functions as
the administrative center for political meetings. Its vast size and modern design
have led locals in Berlin to humorously nickname it the “Waschmaschine” (washing
machine).

_👉 For more information, visit the official government website – [click here](https://www.bundesregierung.de/breg-en)._

 [ ⌊Berlin Bundeskanzleramt with flags flying above a modern government building under a blue sky⌉ ](https://warsawtravelers.pl/cdn-cgi/image/quality=80,format=auto,onerror=redirect,metadata=none/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/germany-berlin-029-mfrh-original-scaled.jpeg)

## Berlin Central Station

_German: Berlin Hauptbahnhof_

Berlin Hauptbahnhof is the largest and one of the most modern train stations in 
Europe, opened in 2006. It is Berlin’s key transportation hub, serving both national
and international trains as well as local S-Bahn lines. The station is located on
the Spree River near the Bundestag building, making it easily accessible to locals
and tourists alike.

The station, is a building of impressive design. With its modern glass facade and
multi-level structure, the station is not only a functional transportation center,
but also an interesting example of contemporary architecture. It is perfectly integrated
with the city’s public transportation network, allowing easy access to all parts
of the city.

_👉 For up-to-date information, visit the official website – [click here](https://www.bahnhof.de/en/berlin-hauptbahnhof)._

 [ ⌊Berlin Hauptbahnhof in Berlin, Germany, with its glass facade and arched roof over the entrance.⌉ ](https://warsawtravelers.pl/cdn-cgi/image/quality=80,format=auto,onerror=redirect,metadata=none/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/germany-berlin-030-mfrh-original-scaled.jpeg)

 [ ⌊Berlin Hauptbahnhof interior with large directional signs and a clock overhead⌉ ](https://warsawtravelers.pl/cdn-cgi/image/quality=80,format=auto,onerror=redirect,metadata=none/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/germany-berlin-031-mfrh-original-scaled.jpeg)

 [ ⌊Berlin Hauptbahnhof platform with an ICE train and passengers waiting nearby⌉ ](https://warsawtravelers.pl/cdn-cgi/image/quality=80,format=auto,onerror=redirect,metadata=none/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/germany-berlin-032-mfrh-original-scaled.jpeg)

## Gendarmenmarkt

Gendarmenmarkt is one of Berlin’s most beautiful and elegant squares, renowned for
its stunning architecture and cultural significance. The square is framed by three
iconic buildings: the German Cathedral, the French Cathedral, and the Konzerthaus,
creating a classical atmosphere. Founded in the late 17th century, the square has
witnessed significant historical events over the centuries.

The French Cathedral was constructed to serve the Huguenots who fled France and 
settled in Berlin. Meanwhile, the German Cathedral was established to cater to the
local Protestant community. Between these two landmarks stands the Konzerthaus, 
which functions as a concert hall and hosts the Berlin Symphony Orchestra.

 [ ⌊Woman posing on the steps at Gendarmenmarkt in Berlin, Germany.⌉ ](https://warsawtravelers.pl/cdn-cgi/image/quality=80,format=auto,onerror=redirect,metadata=none/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/germany-berlin-034-mfrh-original-scaled.jpeg)

 [ ⌊Berlin Gendarmenmarkt with the Französischer Dom rising above trees under a cloudy sky⌉ ](https://warsawtravelers.pl/cdn-cgi/image/quality=80,format=auto,onerror=redirect,metadata=none/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/germany-berlin-033-mfrh-original-scaled.jpg)

## GDR Museum in Berlin

_German: DDR Museum_

The GDR Museum is an interactive museum dedicated to everyday life in the German
Democratic Republic (GDR), located in the center of Berlin on the Spree River. The
museum offers a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in the daily life and realities
of the GDR through a series of interactive exhibits. Instead of standard exhibits
behind glass cases, visitors can touch objects, enter reconstructed homes, or try
on period clothing.

The exhibitions at the GDR Museum cover various aspects of daily life in the GDR.
They cover topics such as education, the political system, and daily surveillance
by the secret police, known as the Stasi. Of particular interest are reconstructions
of typical apartment buildings and a display of the Trabant, a symbol of the automobile
industry at the time. The exhibits also show the propaganda to which East Germans
were exposed, in an effort to recreate the realities of the time as authentically
as possible.

_👉 You can purchase tickets online at the official website – [click here](https://www.ddr-museum.de/en)._

 [ ⌊Berlin DDR Museum cell exhibit with a man sitting on a narrow bed beside a sink and display box.⌉ ](https://warsawtravelers.pl/cdn-cgi/image/quality=80,format=auto,onerror=redirect,metadata=none/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/germany-berlin-038-mfrh-original-scaled.jpg)

 [ ⌊DDR Museum exhibit in Berlin, Germany, showing a vintage cash register with a red ledger book⌉ ](https://warsawtravelers.pl/cdn-cgi/image/quality=80,format=auto,onerror=redirect,metadata=none/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/germany-berlin-035-mfrh-original-scaled.jpg)

 [ ⌊DDR Museum room with vintage chairs, toys, and a large colorful mural in Berlin, Germany⌉ ](https://warsawtravelers.pl/cdn-cgi/image/quality=80,format=auto,onerror=redirect,metadata=none/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/germany-berlin-036-mfrh-original-scaled.jpg)

 [ ⌊Berlin DDR Museum scooter exhibit in green and cream with exposed engine and a “Please do not climb” sign⌉ ](https://warsawtravelers.pl/cdn-cgi/image/quality=80,format=auto,onerror=redirect,metadata=none/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/germany-berlin-037-mfrh-original-scaled.jpg)

## The Berlin Cathedral

_German: Berliner Dom_

Berlin Cathedral is one of the most recognizable buildings in the German capital.
Located on Museum Island, it impresses with its size and neo-Baroque architecture.
The cathedral, built in the early 20th century, is the main Protestant church in
Berlin and an important point on the city’s tourist map. Its distinctive dome rises
high above the neighborhood and can be seen for miles around.

Although we did not visit the interior, the exterior of the cathedral itself is 
very impressive. The richly decorated facade and monumental appearance are a perfect
example of the religious architecture of the time.

 [ ⌊Berliner Dom in Berlin, Germany, with domes, scaffolding, and people in front⌉ ](https://warsawtravelers.pl/cdn-cgi/image/quality=80,format=auto,onerror=redirect,metadata=none/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/germany-berlin-039-mfrh-original-scaled.jpg)

## St. Mary’s Church in Berlin

_German: Marienkirche_

St. Mary’s Church (Marienkirche) is one of the oldest churches in Berlin, located
near Alexanderplatz. Built in the 13th century, the church is one of the few surviving
Gothic buildings in the city that have survived various stages of its turbulent 
history. It is worth mentioning that it was originally a Catholic church, but became
a Lutheran temple after the Reformation.

It is distinguished by its tall tower with a distinctive green dome, which attracts
attention. Although the church has a rather simple form from the outside, the interior
hides some interesting details, such as antique wall paintings.

 [ ⌊Woman standing by rose beds in front of Marienkirche in Berlin, Germany.⌉ ](https://warsawtravelers.pl/cdn-cgi/image/quality=80,format=auto,onerror=redirect,metadata=none/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/germany-berlin-041-mfrh-original-scaled.jpeg)

 [ ⌊Interior of Marienkirche in Berlin, Germany, with a vaulted nave and a suspended illuminated cross installation⌉ ](https://warsawtravelers.pl/cdn-cgi/image/quality=80,format=auto,onerror=redirect,metadata=none/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/germany-berlin-040-mfrh-original-scaled.jpg)

 [ ⌊Inside Marienkirche in Berlin, showing the ornate pipe organ and vaulted church interior⌉ ](https://warsawtravelers.pl/cdn-cgi/image/quality=80,format=auto,onerror=redirect,metadata=none/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/germany-berlin-042-mfrh-original-scaled.jpg)

## Berlin Television Tower

_German: Berliner Fernsehturm_

During our visit to Berlin, we went to the top of the Berlin Television Tower. The
observation deck, at a height of 203 meters, offers an impressive view of the entire
city. Unfortunately, you have to be prepared to admire the view from behind glass,
which can spoil the experience a bit, especially if the glass is dirty. Getting 
good photos turned out to be a challenge as the dirt on the windows affected the
quality of the photos. The result was not as good as we expected.

_👉 Online tickets are recommended to purchase on the official website – [click here](https://tv-turm.de/en/tickets-and-bundles/)._

 [ ⌊Berlin cityscape with the Rotes Rathaus and St. Mary’s Church tower⌉ ](https://warsawtravelers.pl/cdn-cgi/image/quality=80,format=auto,onerror=redirect,metadata=none/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/germany-berlin-045-mfrh-original-scaled.jpg)

 [ ⌊Berlin Fernsehturm tower rising above trees against a blue sky with clouds⌉ ](https://warsawtravelers.pl/cdn-cgi/image/quality=80,format=auto,onerror=redirect,metadata=none/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/germany-berlin-043-mfrh-original-scaled.jpg)

 [ ⌊Panoramic view of Berlin, Germany, with the Berlin Fernsehturm and city center skyline.⌉ ](https://warsawtravelers.pl/cdn-cgi/image/quality=80,format=auto,onerror=redirect,metadata=none/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/germany-berlin-044-mfrh-original-scaled.jpg)

## Alexanderplatz

Alexanderplatz is one of the most famous and vibrant places in Berlin. Located in
the center of the city, it is a key transportation hub and a popular meeting place
for locals and tourists alike. The square has a long history, and was named after
Tsar Alexander I, who visited Berlin in 1805. During the GDR era, Alexanderplatz
was the focal point of the eastern part of Berlin, and today it symbolizes the dynamic
development of the city.

 [ ⌊Selfie of two people at Berlin Alexanderplatz, with the fountain and city buildings behind them.⌉ ](https://warsawtravelers.pl/cdn-cgi/image/quality=80,format=auto,onerror=redirect,metadata=none/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/germany-berlin-046-mfrh-original-scaled.jpeg)

 [ ⌊Alexanderplatz U-Bahn entrance in Berlin, Germany, with a blue station sign above the stairs.⌉ ](https://warsawtravelers.pl/cdn-cgi/image/quality=80,format=auto,onerror=redirect,metadata=none/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/germany-berlin-047-mfrh-original-scaled.jpg)

 [ ⌊World Clock at Berlin Alexanderplatz with people gathering around it and cranes in the background⌉ ](https://warsawtravelers.pl/cdn-cgi/image/quality=80,format=auto,onerror=redirect,metadata=none/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/germany-berlin-048-mfrh-original-scaled.jpg)

 [ ⌊Alexanderplatz fountain in Berlin, with Galeria Kaufhof and a glass skyscraper behind it.⌉ ](https://warsawtravelers.pl/cdn-cgi/image/quality=80,format=auto,onerror=redirect,metadata=none/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/germany-berlin-049-mfrh-original-scaled.jpg)

During our visit, we noticed that the square is surrounded by modern buildings, 
stores and restaurants.This makes Alexanderplatz an attractive place to shop and
spend time.There are also the World Time Clock (Weltzeituhr), which shows world 
time, and the Fountain of Friendship between Nations (Brunnen der Völkerfreundschaft).

Alexanderplatz is also a venue for cultural and political events.At the time of 
the division of Berlin, the square was the scene of many protests, and today various
festivals and events are held here.It is also one of the most important transportation
centers, where subway lines, streetcars and buses intersect, making it an ideal 
starting point for exploring the city.

## Summary

During our tour of Berlin, we noticed several features of the city that left us 
with mixed impressions.Berlin is undoubtedly well connected – it’s easy to get around
thanks to an extensive public transportation system.However, in terms of aesthetics,
it did not impress us as much as one would expect from a European capital. Many 
places are surrounded by concrete and lack greenery, with limited lawns. The city
has a distinctly industrial, austere character, which may appeal to some, but we
found it rather overwhelming.

Berlin also has its less pleasant side, which can be seen on the streets – there
are a lot of homeless people, which creates a contrast with the modern architecture
and numerous tourist attractions. It’s a city that shows its blazes and shadows,
and this raw, concrete atmosphere will not be to everyone’s liking.Nonetheless, 
Berlin remains an important cultural and historical center, where there is something
for everyone, though not necessarily in the typically beautiful way.
Translated 
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