20+ Amazing things to do in Berlin in winter

Berlin is a wintertime haven in Europe with plenty of activities to enjoy. We fell in love with Berlin in winter at first sight. Even though the city was a bit empty and cold, it captured our hearts and left us wanting to explore more as locals.

So, we’ve compiled a list of the top reasons why you should consider spending your winter in Berlin. While some of the activities may be doable in other seasons, Berlin is a fantastic destination all year round with its unique offerings for each season.

Spending winter in Berlin is an excellent opportunity to discover less-known places and experience the city’s unique atmosphere in winter.

Is Berlin worth visiting in winter?

Visiting Berlin during winter can be an excellent experience for those who enjoy the colder weather and winter activities. While it can get quite chilly, there are plenty of seasonal attractions and events, such as Christmas markets and ice skating rinks.

The city also has a unique charm during winter, with snow-covered streets and cosy cafes to warm up in. Of course, it ultimately depends on personal preference and what you are looking for in a vacation, but Berlin in winter is definitely worth considering.

Weather in Berlin in winter

You have a good understanding that Berlin in the winter can be pretty chilly and freezing. Temperatures often drop below zero degrees Celsius. Fortunately, rain is rare during this season.

To learn more about the weather in Berlin during the winter, keep reading. Although the sky may be grey, you can still enjoy yourself, especially if you stop for a hot chocolate every few blocks. The days pass quickly, with the sun setting around 4–4:30 PM.

Berlin in December

December is typically chilly, but the festive Christmas celebrations and bustling markets offer a warm and inviting atmosphere. Temperatures range from -1ºC to 4ºC, though snowfall is not likely until the end of the month.

If you’re lucky, you may even experience some Christmas markets under a blanket of snow. However, it’s important to remember to pack an umbrella, particularly in the early part of the month.

January in Berlin

January in Berlin is significantly colder compared to December. However, you can still enjoy the local markets indoors to warm up. The temperature during this month ranges from –2ºC to 3ºC, and it’s the time of the year when snow is most likely to fall in the city.

Berlin in February

In Berlin, February is the coldest month, with temperatures dropping well below 5 degrees Celsius. You must pack warm and heavy clothing to keep yourself comfortable.

Locals recommend bringing a windproof jacket and layering your clothes for extra warmth. Although there may be fewer tourists during this time, it can still be chilly and windy. It’s better to plan your March trip when temperatures are rising.

20+ Best Things to do in Berlin in winter

Go on a walking tour of Berlin

This may not be the best idea during winter, but the walking tour is ideal to get to know Berlin! Have you considered booking a walking tour of Berlin? There are numerous remarkable walking tours available.

You can opt for a historic tour of the Berlin Wall, explore the East Side Gallery and learn about the division that separated Berlin during the Cold War.

Alternatively, try the Mysteries and Legends of Berlin tour, which will pique your interest. If you prefer cycling, there’s a free tour for you too. Click the link to secure your spot.

Christmas Markets in Berlin

Berlin in winter is a must-visit destination and the perfect place to experience the traditional European concept of Christmas Markets. With over 60 locations designed, the city transforms into a winter wonderland starting from mid-October. From local and traditional food to glamping gifts and Christmas trees, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.

Berlin shines more than ever during its Christmas season. If you’re planning a trip to Europe during Christmas, be sure to add Berlin to your list. December is the ideal month to book your flight and experience all the festive cheer the city offers.

The most incredible Christmas Markets in Berlin

Berlin Christmas Garden | Berlin Botanical Garden

While we’re still on the topic of Christmas, why not check out Berlin’s craft beer tradition? Between mid-November and early January, the Botanical Garden of Berlin is adorned with glimmering Christmas lights, creating a stunning glamping experience.

This magical space is only open in the evenings, from 4:30 PM to 10 PM. In addition to great craft beers, the garden also offers an array of traditional German dishes.

Take a stroll around the vast area and enjoy the mesmerizing light shows, ice skating rink, and other attractions.

The Berlin Christmas Garden is a must-visit destination during the winter in Berlin and should be included in your itinerary.

The Berlin Wall at the East-side Gallery

One of the must-visit places in Berlin during winter is the East-side Gallery. It’s a fantastic site created from the remains of the old Berlin Wall and is now known as one of the best open-air galleries for street art in the world.

Although parts of the ancient wall that once divided the city during the Cold War can still be seen, the East Side Gallery showcases its new purpose.

It’s a kilometre-long stretch of repainted concrete that showcases messages of peace that inspire people to be more aware of the world around them.

The best part about visiting the East Side Gallery is that it’s completely free.

You can stroll along and admire the artwork, take a break by the river, and enjoy the view of the Elsen Bridge. In winter, the water in the area freezes and creates a stunning backdrop for your visit.

Tour of Reichstag

During our visit, we found the German Parliament’s history quite intriguing. It was completely destroyed during World War II when the Allied forces bombed the city, leaving nothing but rubble behind.

However, some of the buildings were later reconstructed, including the Reichstag, which now serves as the Berlin Parliament. The Reichstag features a stunning glass dome on its roof that provides a 360-degree view of the German capital, now known as Tiergarten.

We were in awe of the impressive structure and highly recommend visiting the Reichstag Dome as a must-do activity in Berlin.

The best part is that free admission makes it an even more compelling reason to visit. We suggest booking your visit in advance, as slots tend to fill up quickly. Plan your visit at least two weeks in advance for the best experience.

How to reserve a timeslot to visit the Reichstag in Berlin

As previously mentioned, a visit to the Reichstag, including access to the glass dome and terrace, is free but requires prior approval.

The process is simple, but please note that access to the top is only guaranteed if you receive confirmation.

A complimentary audio guide is available upon exiting the elevator, but you must take advantage of your opportunity to access it.

However, you can book in person for the following day at the ticket office located a few meters from the entrance stage.

Visit the Museum Island

If you’re interested in experiencing Berlin’s cultural offerings, a visit to Museum Island should be on your itinerary.

This exceptional location in the heart of Berlin boasts magnificent buildings and a rich concentration of culture within a relatively small area.

Museum Island comprises five museums located on Spree Island, all of which are included in the incredible district of Mitte in Berlin. Furthermore, UNESCO has recognized the complex as a World Heritage Site.

The Museum Island in One Day

If you plan to visit Museum Island in Berlin, set aside a whole day. Although the complex has been known by this name since the late 1870s, all the buildings were finally completed in 1930, just before World War II began.

Despite being designed by five of the most prominent architects of the time, Museum Island blends together beautifully, creating a harmonious overall picture.

The museums are open Tuesday to Sunday from 10 AM to 6 PM, with extended hours on Thursdays until 8 PM for those who prefer a later visit. Admission costs 12 euros and includes entrance to both the Pergamon Museum and Neues Museum.

If you want to visit the Old National Gallery, Altes Museum, or Bode Museum, the ticket costs 10 euros. Consider getting the Berlin Welcome Card to lower the fee and skip the line for admission. It’s definitely worth checking out!

Snap a photo on the riverside at the Oberbaumbrücke

The Oberbaumbrücke is a remarkable landmark situated near the East Side Gallery in Berlin. It is a photogenic spot that my companions and I discovered and were in awe of.

The view of the Oberbaumbrücke from the riverside, right next to the East Side Gallery, is breathtaking.

It is fascinating to observe the contrast between the Berlin Wall Street Art visitors and those of the Oberbaumbrücke.

This is the prime location for photography enthusiasts to capture stunning shots of Berlin.

Sip hot chocolate at Rausch Chocolate House

The city’s cold weather and freezing winds can be challenging to handle, but a cup of hot chocolate from a fine Chocolate House in the city centre can be a life-saving moment. It’s a great way to take a break from sightseeing and warm up.

The Chocolate House is a dream come true for cocoa addicts. It offers delicious hot chocolate and incredible sculptures made entirely of chocolate that showcase the city’s most beautiful sights. It’s the perfect place to grab some souvenirs of Berlin on the go.

Located just a few steps from Checkpoint Charlie, the Rausch Schokoladenhaus has an incredible view over the Neue Kirche and Deutscher Dom. Sipping hot chocolate while taking in the view is a truly unforgettable experience.

LOCATION | Charlottenstraße 60, 10117 Berlin, Germany

Spot the hidden backyards of Berlin

We have enjoyed exploring Berlin’s hidden backyards, which offer a unique and surprising glimpse into the city’s character.

Berlin has impressed us with its free-spirited and quirky atmosphere, making it a fascinating destination to visit. Every corner holds the potential for discovering a new and incredible world.

There are numerous hidden backyards worth discovering in Berlin, including Gerichstrasse, which offers a glimpse into the old Berlin lifestyle.

One breathtaking courtyard to visit is Mietskaserne, which has a rich history dating back to 1900 and maintains its vintage charm with a renovated street style.

Another charming courtyard is the Heckmann Höfe, which connects the Oranienburger Strasse with the Auguststrasse. This area retains a fascinating and captivating charm that takes you back in time. Take a tour of the hidden gem backyards to uncover more of Berlin’s secrets!

To truly immerse yourself in Berlin’s culture and vibe, you should explore the areas where locals live and hang out. Prenzlauer Berg Berlin District on the east side is a must-visit, featuring the city’s Planetarium and a charming atmosphere.

Cuddle yourself at House of Small Wonder

A warm drink can be incredibly comforting during the cold winter months in Berlin. To escape the chilly weather, we recommend taking a break in one of the city’s cosy cafes.

One place worth checking out is the House of Small Wonder, which we found to be one of the best Instagram spots in Berlin. With a delicious coffee in hand, we could warm up and recharge before continuing our exploration of the city.

While we’ll discuss Berlin’s coffee scene in more detail later, we want to focus on the unique details of this particular cafe.

Nestled in the vibrant Mitte district, the House of Small Wonder is an innovative cafe that combines a greenhouse aesthetic with a menu that features Japanese-inspired comfort food. It’s a truly unique experience that’s not to be missed.

LOCATION | Johannisstrasse, Mitte

Enjoy the Coffee Scene of Berlin

Berlin has a thriving coffee scene, much like other cities in Germany. The coffee scene in Berlin is constantly growing, with cafes popping up on every street corner, providing top-quality coffee.

These cafes also offer workspace for digital nomads and remote workers drawn in by the city’s affordable accommodations and lively atmosphere. Here are some of the best cafes in Berlin to visit during the winter season:

5 of the best coffee shops in Berlin to try

Go for a Berlin craft beer tour

Berlin is well-known for its excellent beer production, making it a must-visit destination for beer enthusiasts. In our guide to winter activities in Berlin, we have included some tips on discovering hidden beer gardens in the city.

While exploring like a local is always enjoyable, warming up in these cosy spots during the few warm months of the year is a popular pastime in Berlin.

Incredible view of Berlin from the top of TV Tower

The Berliner Fernsehturm, also known as Fernsehturm Berlin, is the most well-known landmark in Berlin.

It is located near Alexandre Platz and offers stunning views of the entire city. As the tallest building in Berlin, the TV Tower also boasts an incredible restaurant at the top with a 360-degree view of the German capital.

Visitors can enjoy the view of the TV Tower in two ways. The more affordable option is to book a guided tour with a skip-the-line ticket.

Alternatively, guests can reserve a table with a window seat to savour the panorama while dining for lunch or dinner. For a unique Christmas experience, we recommend the latter option. From the top of the TV Tower, you can witness the twinkling lights of the Christmas Markets.

Book your ticket today and discover the breathtaking views from the top of the Berlin TV Tower.

Take a winter day trip from Berlin

If our list of things to do in Berlin during winter has not convinced you, we’ve put together some day trip options. Many cities surrounding Berlin are worth visiting, and organized tours are available to explore more of the area.

Some tour options include wine tasting in the valleys, castle excursions, and visits to beautiful Christmas markets.

We highly recommend checking out Dresden, which boasts one of the most incredible Christmas markets in all of Germany. Another fantastic day trip from Berlin during winter is visiting the Palace of Potsdam, often covered in snow.

This stunning royal palace is often called the “Versailles of Berlin.”

Here are a few suggestions for a winter day trip from Berlin:

Enjoy Berlin’s light on the River City Cruise

If you want to experience the sparkling lights of Berlin during the winter, consider taking a River City Cruise.

This activity offers a unique perspective of the city and lets you see several Berlin attractions simultaneously. For as little as €20 per person, you can enjoy a 1.5-hour or longer river cruise around Berlin. Here are a few River City Cruises you may find interesting:

The Classic River City Cruise showcases famous landmarks such as the Reichstag, the Mühlendammschleuse, Nikolaiviertel, Berlin Cathedral, Museum Island, and House of World Cultures.

You’ll have access to an audio guide and free cancellation, which is especially important during these unpredictable times.

Enjoy the local food at a market in Berlin

Berlin’s art scene may be insane, but the food sets it apart as one of our favourite European winter spots. As foodies, we’re always searching for new dishes to try, and Berlin has it all – from fine dining to street food and local vendors.

We couldn’t resist exploring the local food markets and sampling the wide selection of local products. Like London and other European cities, Berlin has diverse culinary influences worldwide.

We recommend visiting the food markets to discover both local and international dishes. Some of these markets are even hosted in popup courtyards, making your visit to Berlin even more incredible.

If you’re visiting Berlin in the winter, it’s good to know that there are a few indoor markets to explore since temperatures can drop significantly. We suggest checking out Markthalle Neun in Kreuzberg, which opens at 5 PM.

Another lesser-known option is Arminiusmarkthalle in Moabit, which is not typically recommended by locals but is still worth a visit. Just remember that the Arminiusmarkthalle is closed on Sundays.

Suggestive view from the World air Balloon

In the vicinity of the well-known Checkpoint Charlie tourist attraction, you can find the World Air Balloon.

This typical hot air balloon ride takes you up to 30 meters high. The view from the top is breathtaking as you get a bird’s-eye view of the city centre. Observing Berlin from above, you can spot various landmarks and better understand the city’s size.

Learn more about the Street Art scene in Berlin

Like the amazing hidden backyard, experiencing the street art scene in Berlin during winter is a must.

While wandering through the twists and turns of the city centre, you can stumble upon incredible street artwork.

If you’re lucky, you may even catch an artist performing in front of you. Aside from the popular East Side Gallery, one great spot to witness the scene is the Anne Frank Courtyard.

You can find it by following these coordinates. The Berlin Street Art Scene is truly remarkable, and you can enjoy the best of it by taking a tour with a local guide who will show you the most hidden places to spot your favourite artists.

22 Best things to do in Berlin in winter

Ice Skating at Winter World in Potsdamer Platz

Located in the heart of Germany’s capital, Potsdamer Platz is undoubtedly the most famous square in Berlin. It boasts one of Europe’s most beautiful Christmas markets, offering many activities and attractions for all to enjoy during the festive season. 

Among these activities is an incredible ice skating rink, which is free to use. Visitors can also take advantage of free ice skating lessons for children on Saturdays and Sundays. 

As the weekend approaches, the ice rink transforms into an even more stunning sight, complete with live music and festive lights, creating a wonderful winter party atmosphere.

Potsdamer Platz is the perfect destination for a fun-filled winter experience, whether with family or friends.

Other ice skating locations in Berlin

Cycle in Berlin

Did you know that cultural visits can be enjoyable, too? Cycling around Berlin while sightseeing sounds like the perfect combination. Although it may rain or snow during winter, cycling through the city streets can still be fun.

Numerous tours are available in Berlin; you can explore most of them on a bike. One exciting tour takes you through the key locations of Cold War history in Berlin.

While riding, you can learn something new, explore the trendiest neighbourhoods in Berlin, and listen to a local’s narration.

See a show at the Friedrichstadtplast

When creating a comprehensive guide to experiencing Berlin during the winter season, it is important to include various indoor activities. One must-see attraction is Friedrichstadt-Palast, which boasts the largest theatre stage in the world.

This venue features some of the finest performances in the entire country, and even if you don’t speak German, you can still enjoy the show.

This makes it an excellent option for tourists. Add this activity to your list when planning your Berlin itinerary.

Drive a Trabi Car

If you’re looking for something fun and unique to do in Berlin, consider driving a Trabi Car through the city streets.

The Trabi Car was a popular vehicle during the Communist Era and was frequently used in East Germany. It’s a classic car that’s often seen in movies about the Cold War and has become an icon of that era.

Today, you can take a 75-minute tour with up to three friends and enjoy sightseeing in style. The tour takes you to various locations, including Potsdamer Platz, Brandenburg Gate, Berlin Cathedral, the TV tower, and the East Side Gallery, where the Berlin Wall once stood.

It’s an excellent way to explore Berlin in winter and experience something unique.

Winter shopping at Kaufhaus des Westens

This list is only complete with some shopping destinations for enthusiasts. One such place is Kaufhaus des Westens, a luxurious superdepartment store and Germany’s largest.

While it may be pricey, it’s a must-see in Berlin, much like Harrods in London. With eight floors to explore, it could take you half a day to peruse the many stands and popular brands.

If high-end shops are outside your budget, the Berlin Mall is a great alternative. It offers popular fashion brands like H&M and Tiger.

Located in the city’s heart at Alexanderplatz, it’s the perfect place to escape the cold weather and indulge in some retail therapy.

Attend the Berlin Film Festival in February

Berlin is worth a visit even in the cold months, such as February, when temperatures can drop significantly. This month is particularly exciting as it hosts the Berlin International Film Festival, also known as the Berlinale, which has been held in West Berlin since 1951.

How to plan a trip to Berlin in winter

If you’re planning a trip to Berlin in winter, be sure to bundle up with a warm coat, scarf, and gloves to withstand the polar temperatures.

Berlin is known for being one of the coldest capitals in Europe, and the blizzards can be challenging to handle if you’re not used to them.

However, the city offers unique experiences during this season, such as the Christmas Market and hidden clubs of the Berlinese nightlife scene.

And if you’re not accustomed to snow, seeing it in a city like Berlin can be an unexpected and beautiful sight. Fortunately, locals are skilled at navigating the snow and carrying on with their daily lives, even in challenging conditions.

What to pack for Berlin in winter

For those visiting Berlin in the winter, we recommend packing a survival kit to stay warm. Here are some essentials:

• Warm jacket: Berlin’s temperatures can drop below 0 degrees, especially at night. Bring a warm coat and a raincoat for added protection.
• Ear muffs: Keep your ears warm and cosy with ear muffs. They also make cute accessories in photos.
• Winter hat: If ear muffs aren’t your style, choose a warm one. Bring two colours (white and black) to mix and match, or purchase a souvenir hat in Berlin.
• Gloves and scarf: Remember to pack warm gloves and a cosy scarf.
• Comfortable boots: Berlin can get a lot of snow, so it’s important to have sturdy and comfortable boots to keep your feet dry while walking around the city.

Berlin Welcome Card

To make your visit to Berlin smooth and hassle-free, we recommend booking your Berlin Welcome Card in advance.

This will allow you to enjoy popular attractions in Berlin for free and include public transportation, which can be expensive and inconvenient.

We found purchasing individual journey tickets to be challenging. Still, with the Berlin Card, you’ll have free access, a skip-the-line ticket to attractions, and unlimited access to the city’s metro, bus, and tram. Remember to get your Berlin Welcome Card here!

Where to stay in winter in Berlin

Q&A How to spend Berlin in winter