3 Days in Berlin: The Best Itinerary for Your Visit
Table of contents
The Best Things to Do with 3 Days in Berlin
Itinerary in Berlin: day 1
The Brandenburg Gate
Start your Berlin 3 days itinerary at the city's most iconic landmark. Construction began on the Brandenburg Gate in 1788, and it was completed in 1791. This imposing structure was commissioned by King Frederick William III. It was seen as the perfect way to conclude the impressive Unter den Linden Avenue. After the creation of the Berlin Wall, the historic monument found itself located in a restricted area that was not accessible to residents of the East or the West. Although the Brandenburg Gate once served as a symbol of a divided Germany, today, it is seen as one of unity and peace.
Explore the Nikolai Quarter
The historic Nikolai Quarter is the old town district of Berlin and a must for any 3-day itinerary spent in the city. It is filled with winding corridors and many buildings of historic significance. There are plenty of highlights of this area to check out. They include the Church of St. Nicholas, Ephraim Palace and Knoblauchhaus Museum. You will also find an array of unique shops where you can pick up souvenirs.
Itinerary in Berlin: day 2
Museum Island
Located on the Spree, Museum Island is a UNESCO World Heritage Site that is the perfect place to start the 2nd leg of your Berlin 3 days itinerary. During your visit, you have the opportunity to conveniently visit 5 world-class museums that are all located next to one another. They include the Neues Museum, the Altes Museum, the Pergamon Museum, Bode-Museum and the Alte Nationalgalerie. The first of these was opened in 1830, while the last one started operation in 1930. Both the buildings themselves and the fabulous collections they house are worth exploring. The popularity of this attraction is demonstrated by the fact that more than 3 million guests visit each year.
Explore Berlin's cuisine and nightlife
When it comes to dining and nightlife, Berlin enjoys a reputation across the globe as a hotspot. You will find everything from traditional German fare to taste delights from across the world when you dine in the German capital. Start your evening with a satisfying meal before heading out for more fun. A few top recommendations include Eins44, where you can sample an ever-changing menu of delights that blend fresh traditional and modern ingredients. We recommend the 5-course set meal. If you fancy German cuisine prepared with regionally sourced ingredients, you will love what is available at Kumpel & Keule Speisewirtschaft. For a unique experience that fuses Japanese and Peruvian food, head to 893 Ryotei. You can delight your tastebuds with the flavours of Syria when you book a table at Malakeh. After your meal, it is time to hit the top nightlife spots. Whether you are looking for a bar, a nightclub or a music venue, Berlin has it all. We suggest visiting locations like Bar Becketts Kopf, Geist im Glas, Dicke Wirtin, Green Door Bar, Berghain, Trauma Bar Und Kino and Anomalie.
Itinerary in Berlin: day 3
Take a stroll in one of Berlin's finest parks
Start off the final part of your Berlin 3 days itinerary by taking a relaxing stroll in one of the city's finest parks. The city is home to a variety of stunning green spaces where you can simply relax while taking in the scenery. A few recommendations include Treptower Park, Britzer Garten, Tempelhofer Park and Wannsee.
Shopping in Berlin
Conclude an amazing getaway in Berlin by enjoying some of the city's finest shopping spots. The many outlets around the region include the Mall of Berlin, Alexa and Kurfürstendamm Avenue. You will find everything from designer clothing and footwear to unique souvenir shops. Some of these outlets feature food courts and cinemas that add to the appeal. Go ahead and spoil yourself a bit before you wrap your holiday up by enjoying a bit of shopping.
Places to visit around Berlin
Potsdam
40 kilometres to the southwest of Berlin, you will find the historic city of Potsdam. It is one of our top day trip recommendations you can enjoy during a Berlin 3 days itinerary booked through Voyage Privé. You can conveniently get to the area by train or bus. Upon arrival, you will discover a beautiful municipality that is home to many UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Explore the royal estate of Sanssouci Park. It is known for its impressive buildings and stunning gardens. Check out the Neptune Grotto during your visit to this magical park that was established in 1744. It also features the Picture Gallery, where you can view works by famed artists such as Caravaggio, Rubens and Anthony van Dyck. Other Potsdam highlights that await you include the Dutch Quarter and Neues Palais.
Klein Glienicke
If you want to get away from the hustle and bustle of the city for a bit during your Berlin 3 days itinerary, the village of Klein Glienicke is a great option as it is located just 42 minutes to the southwest. It is situated on a lake that bears that same name and is famed for the iconic Glienicke Bridge. When you visit this spot, take in the views over the River Havel. Another popular point of interest is Schloss Glienicke. It is a country house built in the Neoclassical style in 1826. It once served as the summer residence of Prince Carl of Prussia. You can also stroll through the 287 acres of Schlossgarten Glienicke. This beautiful park first opened to the public in 1934.
Dresden
Head 2 hours south of Berlin, and you will arrive in the city of Dresden. It is located along the Elbe River and serves as the capital of the state of Saxony. The Dresden Royal Palace is a must during your visit and houses the State Art Collection. Nearby, you will find the Frauenkirche. This iconic church was restored to its former glory after being severely damaged during World War II. Other points of interest to explore during your time in Dresden include the Semperoper and Zwinger Palace. Many visitors to the city book a day trip that includes the services of a professional guide and features stops at key landmarks and attractions.
Where to stay in Berlin
1. Centrovital Berlin 4*
The Centrovital Berlin 4* is home to 158 modern, well-appointed rooms that are located next to Lake Spandau. The facility is home to lavish spa facilities with 6 saunas, a modern gym and an indoor pool. During your stay, you will be accommodated in a Comfort Room with breakfast served each morning.
The hotel's features include a sports club, a restaurant, a pair of bars and a Jacuzzi.
What we like: We love the focus on luxurious spa treatments at this hotel. They are ideal for travellers who want to rejuvenate after exploring the various attractions of Berlin.
2. Nhow Berlin Hotel 4*
Nhow Berlin Hotel 4* features 304 guest rooms and has design elements that focus on modern art, music and culture. The property is located on the banks of River Spree and offers luxurious spa facilities and a pair of recording studios.
The hotel's on-site amenities include a lift, air conditioning, indoor/outdoor parking, Wi-Fi, the Envy Bar, Fabrics Restaurant and a fitness centre. Rooms are equipped with bathrobes, a coffee machine, a safe, a mini-fridge, a hairdryer and a courtesy tray of tea/coffee.
What we like: We love the fact that Voyage Privé members are accommodated in an Upgraded Nhow Double Room with River View during their stay. Breakfast each morning is included.
3. The Mandala Hotel 5*
With 159 rooms and suites that are comfortably equipped, the Mandala Hotel 5* is an excellent choice for your Berlin 3 days itinerary. It enjoys a central location in the heart of the city and is close to Potsdamer Platz. Iconic landmarks like the Reichstag Building and the Brandenburg Gate are only around 1 kilometre away.
The hotel's facilities include air conditioning, a fitness centre, bike rental, an indoor swimming pool, FACIL Restaurant, QIU Restaurant & Bar, a lift and in-room features, such as a balcony or terrace and a courtesy tray of tea and coffee.
What we like: We love the Michelin-star dining options and the elegant spa facilities that you can enjoy when you book this 5-star option for your 3-day city break in Berlin.
4. Crowne Plaza Berlin - Potsdamer Platz 4*
With 256 guestrooms, you have plenty of options to choose from when you book the Crowne Plaza Berlin - Potsdamer Platz 4* for your Berlin 3 days itinerary. The property enjoys a central location that is only a short walk from top points of interest like Museum Island, the Brandenburg Gate and Tiergarten Park.
Hotel features include air conditioning, a laundry service, Wi-Fi, multilingual staff, a lift, the Lobby Lounge and a fitness centre.
What we like: We love this property's luxurious facilities, which include a steam bath where you can relax after spending the day exploring. The dining options served up at the on-site Layla Restaurant blend the flavours of the Middle East and the Mediterranean and further add to the appeal of this selection.
5. H10 Berlin Ku'damm 4*
Choose from 199 guest rooms when you book the H10 Berlin Ku'damm 4* for a 3-day itinerary. It is located in a historic building and features design elements from the renowned Kleihues+Kleihues studio. During your stay, you will be comfortably accommodated in a Superior Deluxe Room with breakfast each morning to start your day.
This property's facilities include Wi-Fi, multilingual staff, a fitness centre, a spa, an outdoor terrace, Steps Bar and Salt & Pepper Restaurant. Rooms are equipped with coffee machines, hairdryers, showers and bathrobes.
What we like: We love this property's excellent location that is ideal for a break spent shopping, discovering Berlin's gastronomy and exploring its history and culture.
Practical tips for visiting Berlin
To ensure you see all you would like to, as you prepare for your Berlin 3 days itinerary, it is a good idea to book tickets for attractions in advance whenever possible. You might consider getting a museum pass that will offer access to many of the city's main collections of art and archaeological treasures. Berlin is a cyclist-friendly city, and renting a bike can be a fun way to get around while seeing the sights. We also recommend using the area's excellent network of public transportation options instead of spending money on taxis. They include light rail, underground trains, trams and bus routes. Consider getting a Berlin WelcomeCard for unlimited rides on public transport in your selected zone. If you plan to use any electric appliances or devices that require a UK outlet, you will need to get a travel plug adapter. The local currency in Berlin is the euro, and the official language is German. Picking up a few key German words and phrases can enhance the interactions you have with locals. It is also worth noting that it rains quite often in Berlin, so it is a good idea to come prepared for this with appropriate gear.
When to visit Berlin
The most popular time to visit Berlin is from May to September. This window gives you the chance to experience good weather during your holiday. June to August represents the peak of the tourism season in the region, as this is when temperatures tend to reach their highest. If you want to avoid the largest crowds and highest prices, consider an off-peak booking for your 3-day itinerary. Regardless of when you come to Berlin, you are sure to have an amazing experience exploring this vibrant capital city.
How to get to Berlin
Flights provided by major airlines head out of major UK travel hubs to Berlin Brandenburg Airport daily. For direct flights, you can expect an average in-air time of around 1 hour and 55 minutes. You have a range of public transportation options for getting to your hotel and around the area when you land. They include bus, tram and train routes. Some travellers prefer car hire for added convenience in exploring beyond the city. There are also many taxi services in Berlin, or you can book an Uber.
What to eat in Berlin
Berlin is home to a world-class culinary scene with a diverse variety of delights for you to discover during a 3-day itinerary. We have a few suggestions that you must sample. They include the local favourite, currywurst. This pork sausage is infused with curry powder to give it a unique flavour. Given its popularity across the city, you will have no trouble finding this dish that is often served with bread rolls or fries. Another treat to try is the potato pancakes known as kartoffelpuffer. They are made by shredding potatoes with a mix of onions, flour and baking powder and are commonly accompanied by apple sauce or sour cream. Another food item that is sold across Berlin is the döner kebab. This Turkish meat dish is generally offered on bread or in a wrap with salad. If you fancy dessert, sample the pfannkuche. These pancakes are served with jam, fruit and other sweet delights.