Berlin in winter is a city of contrasts—frosty mornings and warm lights, historic landmarks and festive cheer. From exploring iconic sites to embracing the holiday spirit, this dynamic city offers plenty to see and do during the colder months. I visited Berlin in January just before Christmas, but anyway I believe that Berlin is much better on summer months. So, I collected here some activities I’ve done in Berlin this January.
For better experience combine your trip with Hamburg. Things to do in Hamburg and more you can find in my recent post.
Go to Alexanderplatz Christmas Market
Alexanderplatz, one of Berlin’s most iconic squares, becomes a winter wonderland during the holiday season. The Christmas market here is bustling with life, offering traditional German treats like Bratwurst and Glühwein (mulled wine). A highlight is the roller skating rink, perfect for a festive afternoon or evening. Also not far from Alexander Platz is another Christmas market with ice skating rink.
Discover Berlin’s landmarks with a hop-on hop-off tour on open-top sightseeing buses. You will explore the Brandenburg Gate, Berlin Wall, and Checkpoint Charlie.
Climb to the Dome and Enjoy the Organ Play
The Berlin Cathedral, or Berliner Dom, is a must-visit, especially in winter. Step inside to admire the ornate interior and attend one of the cathedral’s organ concerts. The rich acoustics and majestic sound of the organ create an unforgettable experience. For panoramic views of Berlin’s winter landscape, climb to the dome’s viewing platform. More about concerts or tickets you can find on Dome official website.
Discover the tumultuous contemporary history of Berlin on a guided walking tour.
Explore the Reichstag Building
The Reichstag is a symbol of Berlin’s political history and a fascinating site to visit in winter. The glass dome offers stunning views of the city skyline, especially magical when dusted with snow. Be sure to book your tickets in advance to skip the lines and secure your visit to this architectural marvel. You can go to the Reichstag by yourself or take a tour. If it is your first time with tour is better in my opinion. Also they have audio guide there. More about the visit to the Reichstag you can find on the Reichstag official site.
Enjoy a tour through Berlin’s parliament district and visit the chamber and dome of the Reichstag. Learn more about history, architecture, and politics at the heart of Berlin.
Walk Through Brandenburg Gate
The Brandenburg Gate is one of Berlin’s most iconic landmarks, a symbol of unity and resilience. Built in the 18th century as a neoclassical triumphal arch, it has witnessed pivotal moments in history, from its role as a backdrop to Nazi parades to standing at the heart of a divided Berlin during the Cold War. In winter, it’s especially enchanting, illuminated against the dark evening sky, with nearby Pariser Platz bustling with activity. Also nearby located the Holocausts Memorial, that is very impressive highly recommend to visit it.
Learn about a dark time in world history on a walking tour of Sachsenhausen, the closest concentration camp to Berlin. See what life was like for Jewish prisoners during the Nazi era on a guided tour.
Stroll Through the Berlin Wall East side Gallery
The East Side Gallery is a powerful and vibrant tribute to freedom, creativity, and Berlin’s turbulent history. Stretching over 1.3 kilometers, it’s the longest remaining section of the Berlin Wall, now transformed into an open-air gallery. More than 100 artists from around the world have painted murals on its surface, turning a former symbol of division into a canvas for unity and expression. Iconic works like Dmitri Vrubel’s “Fraternal Kiss” capture both the pain and hope of the city’s past.
Experience the new Grand Show “Falling in Love” at the Friedrichstadt-Palast. Plan your visit in advance here.
Visit the Berlin’s Museums
Berlin has a lot of museums for every taste. Museum Island is home to treasures like the Pergamon Museum (unfortunately was close when I visited), with its monumental reconstructions, and the Altes Museum, featuring ancient artifacts. For a deeper dive into Berlin’s history, visit the Berlin Wall Museum or the Topography of Terror. Also there are an art museums with paintings and sculptures like Bode Museum.
Berlin for me is like an open air contemporary museum with its modern installations, history and stories. A city where everyone’s voice could be heard. Winter with its cloudy weather, gasp winds and rain add to the atmosphere. Next time I sure visit in summer for the comparison.
