Discover a new side to Berlin: Unique things to do
Last updated Jun 19, 2024
Berlin is a city renowned for its rich history, cultural landmarks and vibrant nightlife. Beyond the Berlin Wall and Brandenburg Gate, the city has a wide array of unique experiences to uncover. Whether you’re visiting Berlin for the first time or you’re a Berlin aficionado looking for something different, we’ll take you through our top picks for the most unique things to do.
Hidden Art Galleries
While undoubtedly the East Side Gallery is a must visit in Berlin, there’s another more undiscovered gallery that often falls under the radar: Gallery Kuchling. Tucked away in a courtyard off Auguststraße in Mitte, Gallery Kuchling offers a curated selection of contemporary art by emerging artists. The gallery's intimate setting and diverse program make it a hidden gem for art lovers.
Address: Karl-Marx Allee 123, Friedrichshain, 10243, Berlin
Opening Hours: Wed-Fri 2pm-7pm, Saturday 1pm-6pm
Phone Number: +49 30 12085265
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Urban Spree Gallery is a dynamic art space of 1700 sqm located in the heart of Berlin's Friedrichshain district. This is truly one of the most distinctive experiences in Berlin given that it not only encompasses galleries, but also studios, a concert venue and beer garden. Urban Spree Gallery emerges as a hub of creativity and cultural exchange in the city showcasing contemporary and street art, while also hosting regular events, workshops and artist residences.
Address: Revaler Straße 99, Friedrichshain, 10245, Berlin
Opening Hours: Tue-Sat 1pm-7pm
Phone Number: +49 30 74078597
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Berlin’s Abandoned Places
For history enthusiasts, exploring Berlin’s abandoned sites is an essential endeavour, offering a deep dive into Berlin’s rich history and intrigue. These forgotten locations serve as portals to Berlin's hidden past, and whisper tales of bygone eras
Located in Grunewald Forest is Teufelsberg, a former NSA listening station, a quirky relic of the Cold War era. This abandoned US spy base notoriously sits atop an artificial mountain made from World War II rubble. Previously a hub for intercepting communications from the Soviet Union and East Germany, Teufelsberg is a curious attraction for intrepid explorers. For a small fee, visitors can wander through its graffiti-clad corridors, soaking in the eerie vibes and snagging panoramic views of the city from the hill's peak.
Address: Teufelsseechaussee 10, 14193, Berlin
Opening Hours: 11am-Sunset
Phone Number: +49 176 60818636
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Beelitz-Heilstätten Sanatorium, known for its hauntingly beautiful ruins, was a massive military hospital and sanitorium, and once was the largest tuberculosis hospital in the world. This was also where Adolf Hitler was treated during WW1. While the Beelitz-Heilstätten sanatorium may no longer serve its original purpose, its haunting beauty and rich history continue to fascinate and inspire those who venture within its walls.
Address: Straße nach Fichtenwalde 13, Heilstätten, 14547, Berlin
Opening Hours: 11am-Sunset
Phone Number: +49 33204 60580
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Follow the Literary Trail
Embark on a hidden literary trail through the vibrant streets of Berlin, where the echoes of renowned writers and poets resonate around every corner. Begin your journey with Literaturhaus Berlin, a 19th century cultural institution located in Berlin, Germany, dedicated to promoting literature and literary culture. Lieraturhaus hosts a range of events from readings, book presentations, discussions and workshops. This literary hotspot also boasts its own bookshop and café, so you can feed your intellect and appetite.
Address: Fasanenstraße 23, 10719, Berlin
Phone Number: +49 30 8872860
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Brecht-Weigel House is also a must visit on this hidden literary trail. Located in Mitte district, this was once home to the renowned playwright and poet Bertolt Brecht and his wife, actress Helene Weigel. The Brecht-Weigel House offers a fascinating glimpse into the life and work of one of Germany's most influential literary figures. Guided tours are available and recommended to enhance your understanding of his legacy.
Address: Bertolt-Brech-Straße 20, 15377, Buckow
Opening Hours: Wed-Fri 12-5pm, Sat-Sun 12-6pm
Phone Number: +49 33433 467
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Staying in Checkpoint Charlie
A city with endless possibilities and the freedom to embrace your true self, Berlin is an open book.
