How to spend 48 hours in Berlin

Berlin = uber-cool, with an eccentric mix of old & new. Visiting any time of year is something of a travelling no-brainer.

Whether you’re planning a weekend getaway or a 2-day stopover during a wider European adventure, there is plenty to pack into 48 hours without limiting the full Berlin experience. And once your 48 hours are up (and if you haven’t already fallen in love, quit your job, and started a new career as a fledgling techno DJ), you’ll most certainly have seen and experienced enough of this cosmopolitan hub to know that you’ll be back for more.

Getting around

Segues and bike tours are a great way to explore the city, but Berlin has an excellent transport system that will get you anywhere you need to go in the city centre and, bonus, it is unbelievably cheap. A basic single ticket for zones A & B costs approximately €2.70. Buses and the U-Bahn (train system) usually run until 1am on the weekdays and mostly all night on Fridays and Saturdays, so if you’re planning a night out at one of Berlin’s world famous clubs during your visit you can be sure you won’t break the bank on regretful Uber rides.

Day 1: Exploring East Berlin & historical landmarks

Walking tour & major sights

Start your day with a walking tour of East Berlin, diving deep into its Cold War history. You can visit the Brandenburg Gate, an iconic symbol of division and reunification, then make your way to Checkpoint Charlie – once the most famous border crossing between East and West Berlin. A must-do on an Eastern Europe trip if you’re interested in history.

Next, you can explore a stretch of the Berlin Wall, stopping by the East Side Gallery, an open-air art exhibit that captures the city’s turbulent history through murals. Need a break? Chill at a cosy café and enjoy an authentic German breakfast before heading to the TV Tower for panoramic views over the city. 

Flea markets & street art

No weekend in Berlin is complete without visiting a flea market. If it’s Sunday, head to Mauerpark, where you can dig through vintage finds, enjoy live street performances, and sample unique street food. And don’t forget to immerse yourself in Berlin’s street art culture by visiting Rosenthaler Strasse and Kreuzberg, where graffiti meets contemporary expressionism.

Nightlife & techno scene

Finally, you can wrap up your first day by diving into Berlin’s legendary techno scene. The city’s transformation into the world techno capital is closely tied to the fall of the Berlin Wall. (Oh, and if you’re up for the challenge, try getting into Berghain, or opt for clubs like Sisyphos and Salon zur Wilden Renate). Be prepared for long queues and strict door policies, but the experience is worth it.

Day 2: West Berlin & modern vibes

Historical and cultural exploration

The second day is all about West Berlin. Start at Charlottenburg Palace, a stunning Baroque residence. From there, head to Kurfürstendamm, a major shopping avenue lined with boutiques and cafés.

Next, you can visit the Berlin Story Bunker for a deep dive into Cold War history and then take a break at a traditional beer garden, where you can enjoy bratwurst and pretzels in a relaxed, local atmosphere.

Open-air museums & hidden gems

We highly recommend spending your afternoon at the Topography of Terror, an open-air history museum that documents Berlin’s darkest days. If you’re up for even more history, then stop by the Stasi Museum for a glimpse into the secret police operations of the Cold War era.

Eat & drink in Berlin

You can’t leave Berlin without eating like a true local. So, try the famous currywurst at Curry 36, or indulge in a juicy burger at Burgermeister under the train tracks. If you’re feeling adventurous, visit the food market hall Markthalle Neun, home to Berlin’s best food events.

With just 48 hours in Berlin, you’ll experience a perfect mix of history, culture, and nightlife. Whether it’s walking through its open-air museums, visiting Berlin’s vibrant districts, or simply soaking up its eclectic vibe, one thing is for sure – you’ll be planning your next trip to Germany in no time.