berlin alternative tourism

• BERLIN , CITY BREAK

Alternative Berlin – 14 Unusual Things to Do in Berlin

• November 5, 2023
• One Comment

If you’re looking to explore an alternative side to Berlin, you’ve come to the right. This guide covers all the weird, wonderful, and unusual things to do in Berlin, which I believe are the city’s highlights.

There’s no doubt that Berlin is a fascinating city. From its rich history and vibrant culture to its nocturnal underbelly of sex, drugs and rock and roll, it’s up there with the likes of London as one of the most exciting cities in Europe.

There are a realm of famous landmarks to visit in Berlin, which I cover in this Berlin itinerary . However, it’s the cool and quirky side of the city that gives Berlin its character.

Perhaps you’ve visited Berlin before and are looking for something a little bit different this time around. Or maybe you’re not one to follow the typical tourist trail and want to get off the beaten path.

Either way, this guide to alternative Berlin is just what you’re looking for. We are going all out urban exploring, from abandoned theme parks to street art and possibly the smallest disco in the world!

So let’s get to it. Here are some of the more unusual things to do in alternative Berlin.

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14 Alternative Things to Do in Berlin

We loved exploring the alternative side of the city. That’s not to say we didn’t enjoy the touristic side too, but it’s the off-the-beaten-path stuff that really gets our blood pumping.

Here’s what we suggest you check out when adventuring in alternative Berlin. 

1. Alternative Berlin Tour

What better way to explore Berlin like a local, than to take a guided tour with a local. Alternative Berlin Tours offers a choice of tours, all of which start later in the day after lunch.

Of course, this isn’t your average guided tour where you visit all the usual tourist spots in Berlin. Alternative Berlin Tours allow you to see the city from an alternative perspective.

You’ll get to explore gritty underground locations that even only a few locals know about. And you’ll get a full-blown history lesson from somebody who knows Berlin like the back of their hand.

I should point out that the Street Art tour will likely include a visit to Raw Gelande. So if you’ve visited there already, perhaps opt for another tour such as the Real Berlin Experience or Alternative Nightlife Tour .

2. Raw Gelände

You can take the bus or train to Warschauer Strasse Station and make the short walk to Raw Gelände.

Set in a former train repair yard, this area is an art and cultural centre. The old warehouses and buildings have been taken over and used as an outlet of creative expression for graffiti and street art artists.

There isn’t much going on in the mornings. Whereas by late afternoon, the realm of pubs, clubs, street food stalls, and flea markets burst into life.

Nonetheless, I do recommend checking this place out before it opens. It’s impossible to appreciate the artistic side of the space when everything is open and swarmed with people.  

My suggestion is to visit in the morning, and if you have the time, return one evening to enjoy the bustling nightlife.

It’s especially atmospheric come the long Summer nights, and many of the nightclubs roll on until the early hours of the morning. 

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3. Teledisko

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This leads me onto our next stop – The Teledisko . Possibly the smallest disco in the world, and certainly one of the most unique.

We stumbled upon this creation when exploring Raw Gelände. What appeared to be a telephone box on the outside was blaring music and vibrating off the floor.

The next thing we knew, two giggling girls rolled out of the door, trailed by a pool of smoke. We figured it must have been a speakeasy bar, and of course, we had to check it out.

As it turns out, it is exactly what it says on the tin. A disco in a telephone box.  So we slot a few euros into the machine and danced around like crazy women for the duration of our song.

Certainly one of the more unusual things to in Berlin, and we agreed it was money well spent for the 5-minutes of laughs it provided.

Entry: 600 HUF (Free to view outside)/Allow: 1hr

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Are you going to be visiting all of the cities top attractions and taking full advantage of the public transport network? If yes, you should consider purchasing a  Berlin Card in advance. 

4. TreeHouse on the Wall

Next on the alternative Berlin agenda, and just a 30-minute walk from Raw Gelände we have a spot that I suspect even very few Berliners know of.

The Treehouse on the Wall was erected in the 1980s by a Turkish migrant worker.

At the time, the Berlin wall was still standing; however, Osman Kalin found a loophole whereby a small area of land had been left exposed.

Naturally, this didn’t sit well with the authorities. Many believed Osman was using the house to assist Berliners in crossing over the divide.

However, despite intimidating demands to tear it down, the structure, built using only recycled scrap materials, still stands today.  

For the moment, you can’t ‘legally’ get into the house. Although, there are rumours of turning it into an official monument or a museum in the future.

For now, you can admire it only from the outside. In any case, it’s worth checking out while you’re in the area.

5. Kreuzberg

Kreuzberg is known as the hipster district of Berlin. As you can imagine, there’s plenty of cool stuff to check out here.

You won’t find any major attractions as such; however, the blend of trendy cafes, new age restaurants, and urban underground edge, makes for some pretty fun exploration opportunities.

First up, grab some lunch. Kreuzberg is home to some cool and quirky places to eat! Like Burgermeister, that’s set in a former railway public bathroom.

After that, stroll down the banks of the picturesque Landwehrkanal. Especially around the vibrant Maybachufer stretch where the banks are swarming with bars, cafes, and restaurants.

Every Tuesday and Friday is the Turkish market where you can shop for souvenirs or sample some Turkish street food. It’s also worth checking out Brammibals bakery for delectable vegan doughnuts. 

6. Hackescher Markt Hidden Alley

Berlin is a metropolis of self-expression, reflected through the endless street art that adorns the city.

Some artistic spaces, like the East Side Gallery, are loud and proud and easy to find. Others, like this hidden alley near Hackescher Markt, are a bit more tucked away.

If you didn’t know it was there, you could easily walk past this alternative hidden gem in Berlin. Which would be a pity as it’s one of the quirkiest spots in the city.

To find it, head to the Cinema Cafe on Rosenthaler Strasse where the unassuming alleyway runs alongside it. Once you get past the dark entrance to the alley, it opens up into a vibrant courtyard.

Huge murals of street art cover the walls, and there are hipster cafes with outdoor seating where you can sit and take it all in. It’s easily one of the best photo spots in all of Berlin .

That’s not all. You’ll also find the  Monster Kabinett  here – a wild museum of robotic creatures and insect-like beasts. Not for the faint-hearted!

7. Underground Berlin Tour

This was up there as one of our favourite experiences in Berlin. If you’re remotely interested in Berlin history, it’s an essential addition to your Berlin Itinerary .

The organisation is Berliner Unterwelten – A subterranean museum exploring the city’s underground history, including WWII bunkers and escape tunnels.  

I’ll be honest, it takes something unique to grip me when it comes to educational experiences and that’s what we loved about Berlin.

There are such creative and immersive ways to learn about the past that you’re instantaneously hooked.

These underground tours are a great example. You can sit in WWII bunkers, follow escape routes under the old Berlin Wall, and come face to face with the dark realities of the past.  

Several underground tours run throughout the day in a variety of languages. I’ve included a short description of each below.

We can personally recommend Tour 1. However, depending on the time of year, there may be a limited choice of tours running on the day.

We recommend you check the website for more information, although you can’t book in advance. You must book on the day of your tour at the ticket office.

Tour 1  – Dark Worlds : Experience WW2 b0mbing raids through the eyes of civilians. Travel through the twisted passages and learn about life as a Berlin civilian in WWII.

Tour 2  – From Flaktowers to Mountains of Debris : Discover the devastated ruins of a WW2 fortress. On this fascinating tour, visitors will be shown three of the seven floors of one of the biggest bunkers in the city. 

Tour 3  – Bunkers, Subways, and the Cold War : This tour follows the traces of the Cold War in the underground. Discover the modern defence shelters that were built in preparation for a possible nuclear war.

Tour M  – Under the Berlin Wall: On this tour, you’ll hear the stories of the people who tunnelled to freedom beneath the Berlin wall.  

Save Time and Book a Tour

For a more local experience, we recommend checking out the guided tours on  Get Your Guide :

8. Mauerpark

One of the things we loved most about Alternative Berlin was its neverending realm of artistic and cultural spaces.

One of those spaces is the atmospheric Mauerpark – a green open space built on what was once known as the ‘de@th strip’ of the Berlin Wall.

If you visit on a weekday, you might struggle to recognise what the fuss is all about. Other than a few pieces of street art, there’s not much going on at all.

However, the park really springs into life on the weekend, particularly through the summer months.

Alongside the famous flea market, you’ll find open mic nights, giant BBQs, live performers, street food stalls, and more. It’s a wonderful vibe!  

9. Spree Park

Once an amusement park, now abandoned and left to the forces of nature, Spreepark is a must-visit for any alternative seeking traveller.

Like most things in Berlin, the park conceals a fascinating past but I won’t go too much into that here. Long story short, the park closed down in 2002, and until recently went untouched.

There are now plans in place to revamp the whole thing into an art and cultural centre. But for now, the dilapidated rides and structures of the old park remain, allowing for quite the eerie adventure.

Unfortunately, the park is off-limits unless you go as part of a tour; however, that’s not to say that people don’t illicitly do it.

It’s a similar set-up as the abandoned water park in Vietnam, but I’m not sure the Germans bribe so easily.

If you don’t fancy being chased by guards and dogs, take the tour. You can book a guided tour of Spree Park here . 

10. Teufelsburg

Next up we have Teufelsburg – An abandoned spy station that sits atop an 80-meter hill in the Grunewald forest.

This one is quite a way out of the city centre, but if you’re down for a real offbeat urban adventure, it doesn’t get much better.  

Unsurprisingly, the derelict military structure has a remarkable history. First of all, the mound on which it’s built consists of post-WWII debris of dilapidated Berlin.

And the structure itself, once a N@zi military college, was later taken over by the U.S. National Security Agency and used as a spy station. Pretty cool, huh?  

Abandoned following the fall of the Berlin Wall, the structure is now a decaying shell adorned in some of the cities most impressive street art.

Naturally, opportunistic locals have clocked on, so now you have to pay to get inside. However, I know of plenty of visitors who simply find a gap in the fence and discover it that way.  

If you’d prefer to play it on the safe side, tours of Teufelsburg run daily. You can make a booking through the website here . 

11. Schöneberg

The thriving LGBTQ+ culture in Berlin earns the city its position as one of the most gay-friendly destinations in Europe. If not the entire world!

There aren’t many places, other than London , of course, where we’ve felt so entirely comfortable being ourselves. You come as you are in Berlin, and nobody blinks an eye.

Regardless of whether you identify as LGBTQ or not, I encourage you to check out the vibrant gay village in Schöneberg.

Not only home to an endless realm of queer bars, clubs, restaurants, and stores, but a trendy neighbourhood with a fascinating history.

Some other cool things worth checking out in Schöneberg include Urban Nation – A cool museum featuring street art. And Nature Park Schöneberger Südgelände, which I will talk about next. 

I also recommend the rainbow cake at Romeo & Rome cafe! 

12. Nature Park Schöneberger Südgelände

If you don’t fancy the long trip out of town, perhaps this deserted railway yard will tickle your fancy instead.

Fifty years ago, the park was nothing but an industrial junkyard; however, over the past five decades, it has flourished into a rich jungle forest.

Set in the vibrant Schöneberg district, this Nature Park is our favourite in Berlin.

Despite being reconstructed to include walking trails for the public, derelict remains of buildings, trains, and tracks lay buried beneath the forest.

It’s offbeat Berlin, but without doing anything too risky or illegal. And the best part, it’s only €1 to enter! 

13. KlunkerKranich Rooftop Bar

Weather permitting, I recommend checking out Klunkerkranich Rooftop Bar during your time in Berlin.

The venue is a former car park turned cultural rooftop garden. The bar provides a lush outdoor space overlooking panoramic views of Berlin.

During the Summer, this ‘happening’ venue hosts concerts, DJ programs, readings, cinema, and much more on the vast upper deck.

I do believe they have an indoor section as well, but you might want to check out the website for what’s going on throughout the year.

14. SpeakEasy Bars

Nothing screams Alternative Berlin like secret bars hidden in unsuspecting spaces.

The term ‘Speakeasy’ was derived from the prohibition days when drinking holes were illegal, so pub landlords would disguise their bars to evade the authorities.  

Nowadays, bars in cities with even a slightly retro vibe loosely throw around the term. However, in Berlin, there is still several of the authentic kind.

Bars with passwords to get in. Bars disguised in warehouses and at the back of shops. There are many Speakeasy bars in Berlin .

And they are a great way to end the day or start your night – whichever way you look at it.

15. Unique Accommodation in Berlin

In such a cool and quirky city as Berlin, it’s no surprise that there are many unique accommodations to match.

Here’s a few of the most unusual we could find – places that reflect the edgy character of the city. So if you’re yet to sort out your digs, you might want to check these out.

Hüttenpalast : This quirky hotel is located in Berlin’s trendy Kreuzkölln district. Hüttenpalast offers a unique range of accommodation including Retro-style caravans and cabins. They are all located within an indoor garden area to really give the feel of a real campsite. In love with this concept!

25 Hours Hotel Bikini : Hotel Bikini is referred to as a chic urban jungle. Animal themes, long leafy plants, and quirky features resonate throughout the property. It’s literally a wonderland for adults, and we are loving it.  

Provocateur Berlin : A small and intimate boutique hotel in Berlin boasting lavish rooms designed to set the mood. Perfect for a romantic getaway with your partner or for those looking to enjoy Berlin’s thriving sex scene.

Alternatively, you may look at staying nearby, in which case you can compare hotels in Berlin here . Or use the Map below to see all your options​:

Have Fun Exploring Alternative Berlin!

There you have it – 14 of the weird, wonderful, and unusual things to do in Berlin. I hope this list has you excited about your trip! 

Which spot are you most excited about visiting? Let us know, we love hearing from you. You can reach out to us in the comment section below.

Stay adventurous and Happy travels.

Planning a trip around Berlin? Check out our Germany series  for more travel tips and advice. 

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Alternative Berlin

Last Updated on 04/01/2024 by kami

During each of my visits in Berlin I’m amazed by how fast the city changes, how unique it becomes and how it is now an alternative capital of Europe (I even dare to say of the world). Since the fall of the Berlin Wall 25 years ago it had to define itself again as a new, reunited capital and I personally am very glad that it went to this very direction. When lately I was exploring not the touristy parts of Berlin I had moments when I couldn’t really believe that all I’m seeing is actually real. It was just too hip, too cool, too much of the dream coming true. And even if these places were full of tourists they still managed to remain real and are spots where young Berliners live, work, party and chill out.

The most alternative districts of all and one of the best known neighbourhoods of Berlin. It’s easy to distinguish the moment when you step into Kreuzberg as suddenly all you see around are quirky shops, small restaurants, cosy cafes and funky looking people. On top of that there’s an overwhelming number of the amazing street art on every step, including some of the most famous Berlin pieces. In the times of Berlin’s division this district used to be in West Berlin yet surrounded by the Wall – what first was a poor, isolated area now is the cultural heart of the city. There’re lots of nightclubs, pubs, cafes, quirky little shops and small restaurants – surely Kreuzberg is a place to be! It’s also where I had one of the weirdest meals of my life – under the subway bridge, in the former public toilet there’s a burger bar that serves pretty awesome food – the long line seems to confirm that.

Located close to Warschauer Strasse sbahn and ubahn station, this former railway maintenance yard now serves as an alternative culture center. Railway tracks are still on the ground, some of the old buildings still stand – this industrial scenery is a perfect setting for a place like this. RAW Temple is where numerous community projects take place. From art exhibitions and rock concerts to open-air cinema or workshops for young and adults – everything can be found there! I visited RAW Temple on Saturday morning – the place was fairly empty but small kids were learning how to skate (in the indoor skate hall) and older folks were doing some rock climbing. On Sunday the place turns into a big flea market. RAW Temple was a place that I’d definitely love to spend more time in and enjoy all the activities! Sadly rumors say shopping center is going to be built in this location…

Hackesche Hofe

Most people go to Hackesche Hofe to admire the beautiful art-deco building (it is indeed spectacular). But not many know that the next entrance leads to the courtyard that is a paradise for every street art lover. The place is literally covered in various forms of street art – graffiti, posters, murals, stickers… Even if the courtyard is fairly small it took me at least an hour to take a closer look at every single piece. Most of them were exceptional! And when I say it was everywhere I really mean it – I looked at the ceiling and even there was a cute Little Lucy trying to kill her cat in yet another intricate way. Located not far away from Alexanderplatz Hackesche Hofe is highlighy recommended!

Prenzlauer Berg

Former East Berlin area that always has been in the opposition, now is one of the most desired places to live in the capital of Germany. And I can’t blame all these people dreaming of being residents of Prenzlauer Berg. Packed with cozy cafes and small boutiques and full of beautiful architecture it surely must be a wonderful place to live in. Prenzlauer Berg makes a perfect alternative to the famous landmarks of the city. After the busy sightseeing day it’s worth stopping in that district for a cup of coffee, just to enjoy the easy-going lifestyle Berlin is so famous for. You can read and see more of Prenzlauer Berg in my recent post .

At the edge of Prenzlauer Berg, where te Berlin Wall and its Death Strip used to be, the most hip of city’s parks can be found. It’s especially worth to visit Mauerpark on Sunday as that’s when the whole magic happens – one of the biggest flea market (however it felt a little bit too commercial for me), public karaoke singing or, when the weather is nice, a massive bbq. It seemed like only cool, trendy and young Berliners visit the park to chill out with friends and so it’s worth visiting the place just for people watching. I’ve heard opinions that Mauerpark has become a touristy substitute of Berliner lifestyle – true or not it’s definitely an amazing place to spend some time in!

Due to the history and especially the division lots of Berlin’s buildings were abandoned. But since the alternative scene there has been very active for years the empty space was taken by squatters who turned them into active culture centers . Now they are legalized and are the place where concerts, exhibitions or workshops often take place. Most of the Berlin’s squats can be found in Mitte, Kreuzberg or Friedrichshain. Sadly the best known squat, Tacheles, has been recently closed, after over 20 years. But still the city is full of other great places, such as Kopi 137 or Tommy Weisbecker Haus – a squat that has been names after young anarchist killed by the police in 1972, the place that has been in service for over 40 years!

Berlin must be the world’s capital of street art! Most of the city, and especially the alternative districts, is covered in all forms of art. And these are not just any random paintings but really valuable pieces, some with deep meaning. Artists from all over the world come to Berlin to be part of its wonderful street art scene. Take a look at my recent photo post to see some great street art pieces from Berlin!

Travel Resources

You can find the best accommodation options at Booking . They have many discounts and excellent customer service. Click here to look for the place to stay in Berlin

Never travel without travel insurance , you never know what might happen and better safe than sorry. You can check the insurance policy for Germany here.

I recommend joining organized tours to get to know the place better and to visit more places during your trip. You can find a great selection of tours at Get Your Guide – click here .

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Have you done a tour with alternative berlin? :)

nope, I explored most of these by myself :)

I liked the last one photo most. The sign says everything for the stupid people. Good catch.

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Destinations , Europe , Germany · February 12, 2023

17 Alternative Things To Do In Berlin That Are Actually Worth It!

Are you looking for some cool things to do in Berlin that don’t involve visiting a museum? Here are 17 alternative things to do in Berlin that are actually worth your time.

A common question that is typically asked is what is there to do in Berlin that is not a museum? Well, if you are one of these people, I can assure you that you have come to the right place! Berlin is SO much more than its history. Don’t get me wrong, Germany has the most fascinating history in the world (at least I think so) but when visiting, people often forget that there are so many cool things to do in Berlin. This other rugged side of berlin is often nicknamed Alternative Berlin.

In this guide, I will show you all the hidden gems that people may not realize exist here! Most of the activities will be places that are technically free to visit, however, they will usually include some type of paid activity. If you are interested in more guides from Berlin then check out the links below. I have a post up with the best places to see street art, as well as one with all of the must-see historical sites in the city. 

Read more:  6 of the Best Places to see Street Art in Berlin

Read more: 13 Must-See Historical Places in Berlin

When to Visit and For How Long?

Before jumping into all of the alternative things to do in Berlin, I will quickly go over when it is the best time to visit, and how many days you should spend in Berlin. Technically you can visit Berlin all year round. If you love all things Christmas, then this is the perfect December destination. I have to admit that Germany is one of the best countries to be in around Christmas time! While you can visit the historical sites in the city at any given time, if you want to experience the alternative side of Berlin, you should come around May – October. This is because a lot of cool outdoor events, beer gardens, and general experiences are only open when the weather is good. 

When planning your trip, I would recommend around 4 days if you are only going to be in the city. However, I encourage you to consider coming for a week so that you can enjoy some day trips as well. Such trips could include places such as Dresden, Potsdam, and Spreewald Biosphere! 

Read More: 7 Fun Things to do in Spreewald

This post is all about 17 alternative things to do in Berlin that are actually worth it.

17 Alternative Things To Do In Berlin

1. dead chicken alley.

While this spot is fairly known, it is extremely special and not one to be missed! It might even be my favorite spot on this list. 

The name of the alley comes from the group of artists (the dead chickens) who found it. After the Cold War, there were many buildings in Berlin (especially in the east) that were completely abandoned. The artists found this alley in between the abandoned buildings and used it as an outlet for their political thoughts and creativity. At one point, they found documents showing that the Otto Weidt workshop for the blind Jews had been set up here during the Second World War. Due to this, the city council decided the preserve the alley and even opened up a free museum about the Otto Weidt workshop. 

The main draw of the alley is the everchanging murals found on the walls. While some are permanent (such as the portrait of Otto Weidt), other huge paintings can change overnight, making it exciting to visit several times. The other side of the alley is filled with smaller works and graffiti anyone can add to. With so much to see, you can easily spend many hours looking at it all. There is also a nice staircase at the back of the alley leading to several galleries. The stairs are very special, with the entire walls and ceiling covered in different stickers, so do not miss it. Lastly, during the warmer weather, there are two cafes/ bars you can relax in and enjoy the atmosphere of this unique alley in the middle of busy Berlin. 

2. Hackescher Höfe

Hackescher Höfe is a courtyard complex in Mitte right by the Hackescher Markt S-Bahn station. This complex is comprised of 8 interconnected courtyards, which can be accessed from Rosenthaler Straße, right by the entrance to the dead chicken alley. 

While the courtyards were originally designed in 1906, it was damaged during the war and was restored in 1993. Today they house different shops and restaurants for tourists and locals to enjoy. Although there is not much to do inside, the courtyards are a must-visit due to their beauty! In addition, there is a Tunisian specialty coffee shop that makes for a great coffee stop. Since I last visited, it appears that they no longer serve coffee with milk, but I am not sure of this, so make sure to check it for yourself before you visit. 

3. Open-air Cinema

Unfortunately, this is only something you can do if you visit during the summertime. The outdoor cinemas in the city typically open in May and are open throughout summer! During my time in the city this summer it was my first time trying an open-air cinema, and I absolutely loved it. There is something in the atmosphere that makes the whole experience so much cozier. 

There are several open-air cinemas throughout the city. Personally, I always go to the one in Kreuzberg, since the setting is really beautiful, and they have chairs (which not all cinemas provide). The movie selection is really good and there are a lot of movies in English offered here. Make sure to order the tickets ahead of time to ensure entry! Here is a link to the open-air cinema in Kreuzberg which I highly recommend over the others. 

4. Take an alternative/street art tour

While a lot of people take tours around the city to learn about the rich history, there are also some other cool tours every visitor should consider taking! The first tour is a free alternative walking tour, which is tip-based. These tours are usually offered daily, however, you will need to reserve a spot in advance. Here is a link to the website . While they will mostly be based around activities that I mention here, it is always nice to get more background information from these tour guides who know Berlin like the back of their hands. 

Another tour that I highly recommend is a street art tour. This tour is not free and costs around 16 euros. Although this, I think it is a great opportunity to learn more about the graffiti and street art that play a huge role in the culture here. Even if you aren’t the biggest fan of this topic, you learn about a lot of things that you may not have considered before. This includes understanding the artwork, why it is so difficult to stop graffiti in Berlin, and how Germany’s history may play a role in the creation of a lot of street art. Here is a link to the tour so you can check it out for yourself . 

5. R.A.W. Gelände

This spot is located very close to the East Side Gallery, just ahead of the Warschauer station. This complex used to serve industrial purposes for more than 100 years. Since then, it has been transformed into a creative space, used for artistic, cultural, and commercial activities. These include a beer garden, a digital art installation, an outdoor swimming pool, a skatepark, and many more.  Click here to read more about the R.A.W. and things you can do here. I highly recommend getting a beer at Cassiopeia while here. 

While there are lots of activities to check out here, my favorite part is walking around and admiring the street art. There are so many fascinating paintings and sculptures, as well as a good mix of random pieces all over the walls. Once again, this is a place you could spend hours walking around, to indulge in all of the interesting artworks. If you happen to visit on a Sunday, then make sure to check out the fleamarket for some second-hand clothes, jewelry, vintage items, or just some good food. 

6. Karaoke at Mauerpark

This activity is so unique to Berlin that it simply can’t be missed. If you happen to visit during the summer months, make sure to be in the city on Sunday. As mentioned above, Sundays are the day for flea markets here. The most popular market by far is the flea market in Mauerpark. The vibe here is really special, and you could spend some hours checking out the different booths. In addition, there are large parts of the park outside the market place which are the perfect hangout spot on a lazy Sunday. 

Arguably the best part of the Mauerpark flea market is the karaoke. Every week, as long as the weather is good, there is a large public karaoke show happening. This activity brings just as many locals as it does tourists. However, it is usually the tourists that get up and sing, while the locals enjoy a good show. The karaoke starts at 15 PM at the amphitheater, but make sure to come well in advance, as the seats get filled up very quickly. I would recommend taking into account around 2 hours here since the show is lots of fun!

7. Tiergarten Park

I know you may be thinking that this park does not fit in an alternative things to do in Berlin guide, but hear me out. I am going to be showing you some secret spots I am sure you may not have heard of before! Starting out with some biergartens, the first one is lesser known and more popular among the locals, so if that’s your vibe, check out Schleusenkrug. If you are looking for a beer with a view, then the biergarten outside Cafe am Neuen See is the place for you. Even though it is huge, it gets filled up in the summer, so try to avoid peak hours. 

The garden overlooks a serene lake, which has small boats you can rent. I believe it costs around 12 euros per hour and is the perfect date activity or just a nice way to enjoy nature. After this, make sure to check out rosengarten (the rose garden). This little garden is so well kept and not many people know about it. In the garden you can find lots of blooming roses (in the summer), shaded gazebos, and overall a relaxing place to be. I personally love bringing a book here and sitting in one of the gazebos!

8. Humbolt Forum Terrace

If you love hidden gems and rooftops with a view, then this spot is for you! On the museum island, you can go up to the rooftop terrace of Humbolt forum, for free. The only thing to keep in mind is that you have to book a time slot in advance. This is done to make sure it never gets too crowded. There is also a cafe up here if you would like to sit down, however, it is quite pricey. 

The views from this rooftop are some of the best in Berlin! You have direct views over the Berlin Cathedral and TV Tower. Click here to book your ticket to enjoy one of the best spots on this alternative things to do in Berlin guide!

9. Walk Along The Spree River

One of the cool things to do in Berlin is to take a walk along the Spree in Mitte. This is also one of the best free things to do in Berlin. The reason I am adding this activity to my alternative things to do in Berlin guide is that there is so much stuff to see along this walk.

Start the walk around Museum Island, and pass by the Berliner Dom, Humbolt Forum, and the Bode-Museum. This will be the beautiful and historical part of your walk. After a little bit, you will reach Nikolai Viertel and Alte Münze, which start to be more interesting areas to explore. Continue down until you reach Holzmarkt 25, which I will talk about separately below! Then, after a break here, you can continue further to some other activities mentioned in the guide such as East Side Gallery and Badeschiff. If you don’t mind the walk, continue all the way to Oberbraumbrücke.

10. Rosenthaler Straße

This street is one of the best in Berlin. Many people love window shopping on this street due to it being lined with cute stores. Most of the stores here are boutique concept stores, which will include all kinds of knick-knacks and boutique clothes. These stores are quite expensive, but it is definitely fun to walk around and examine all of the fun things they sell. In addition, Rosenthaler Straße connects to both Dead Chicken Alley and Hackescher Höfe. 

11. Holzmarkt 25

Holzmarkt 25 is one of those places that immediately come to mind when thinking of alternative things to do in Berlin. Located on the Spree river a few minutes’ walk from the East Side Gallery, this is the perfect hangout spot. This spot is very similar to R.A.W. Gelände, as it has also been transformed into a creative space. Holzmarkt 25 hosts all kinds of events throughout the year which you can stay up to date with here . Even if there isn’t an event going on, it is always worth coming down here for a drink and to enjoy the artworks. 

12. Bite Club

The Bite Club happens every Friday during the summertime. The location may change from time to time, so I recommend finding them on Facebook or Instagram to make sure of the details before going. Typically the Bite Club starts at around 17 PM and continues until pretty late. You can enter for free if you arrive before 18 PM, otherwise, it will cost a few euros to enter. 

The Bite Club makes for the perfect summer night, where you can enjoy a variety of drinks and food from different food trucks around the premise. Should you happen to be in Berlin on a Friday, make sure to grab dinner here!

13. Badeschiff

The Badeschiff is the perfect solution for those who would love to go swimming in a big city. Unfortunately, the Spree river is too polluted to allow for safe swimming, so instead, they built a floating swimming pool on the river. This way, you still get the same views, but with more comfort. There is also a sun deck where you can get a tan on a warm day. Entrance costs around 7 euros and the opening times may change seasonally so check out their website here . 

14. Visit the Treehouse

The famous treehouse in Kreuzberg has a really interesting backstory. Today it stands as yet another symbol of the city’s reunification. 

The story is that when creating the Berlin wall, the soldiers operated at night, and made a mistake right by Saint-Thomas Church. This meant that when the wall was seen the next morning, they had left a small piece of land in West Berlin, which didn’t have any use and was technically a no-mans land. As time went on, a Turkish resident in West Berlin called Osman Kalin decided to build a treehouse for his kids and neighbors to play in. While he built the treehouse, the soldiers in East Berlin watched and created stories about how the West was so poor that they had resorted to building houses out of rubbish. Whereas in the West the story showed how much freedom they had. This treehouse eventually became a symbol of the Cold War and is today a really cool spot to visit.  

15. Freischwimmer

There is not much to this spot other than it fits the theme of alternative things to do in Berlin. This restaurant sits right on a small canal off of the Spree and makes for a cool stop for a beer and some local German food. 

16. Street Art

Nothing screams out alternative things to do in Berlin more than some great street art. There are six places that are the best if you want to see all of the street art that Berlin has to offer. I will quickly mention the places I haven’t covered in this guide in a list below. However, if you want to check out street art in Berlin, then I highly recommend that you read the blog post I dedicated to the topic. 

Read More: 6 of the Best Places to see Street Art in Berlin

• East Side Gallery
• Teufelsberg
• Urban Nation

17. Arise Show

This is the best show I have ever seen. Arise is a little bit similar to Cabaret shows in Paris, however, in my opinion, it is so much better. The Arise show includes these famous dances but adds a storyline, extra characters, and more WOW factors that I haven’t seen anywhere else.

Unfortunately, I don’t have any photos from the show, but I will link their YouTube trailer here , where you can get a sense of what the show is about. In addition, if the trailer has convinced you to get tickets, click here to check them out . This is one of my favorite things in the city so be sure not to miss it on your trip!

I hope this guide helped you in planning your upcoming trip to Berlin! If you have any questions or think I missed a spot then let me know in the comments below! 

This post was all about 17 alternative things to do in Berlin that are actually worth it!

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Cool Things to Do in Berlin: 48 Quirky & Alternative Spots

Get out of the tourist traps and into authentic, offbeat Berlin. This list of 48 cool things to do in Berlin includes kitschy museums, secret tours, crazy monsters, cold war relics and graffiti all washed down with plenty of beer.

Why Explore Offbeat Berlin?

Why explore these unusual and fun things to do on Berlin? Because the offbeat, out of the ordinary, edgy and alternative are what makes Berlin so unique. The Weimar era of the 1920’s fostered a culture that embraced design, literature, film, an LGBT community and a decadent nightlife. Fortunately, many aspects of that culture survived both WWII and the Cold War.

They say that Austin is weird, but I think Berlin gives Austin some credible competition. I went to Berlin because it’s a major city for street art and seeing their graffiti for myself was very high on my bucket list. But while there, I was delighted to find a city that still has plenty of edge for the discerning traveler, who likes to inject her itineraries with a large dollop of quirk.

So, read on to discover alternative Berlin with recommendations from me and some of my well-traveled blogger buddies.

(This article contains affiliate links. This means that if you choose to purchase, I’ll make a small commission.)

Three Quirky Places to Stay in Berlin

For such a large city, you can still score a pretty great deal on lodging in Berlin. Furthermore, because of it’s quirky, artsy culture, there are tons of properties that have cool design features and staffing with an edge. Here are three such places that will house you in style while you explore all of the following fun things to do in Berlin.

Urban Glamping : Huttenpalast is a fun and funky budget lodging provider. In addition to normal hotel rooms, they have a bunch of adorable little indoor campers (with shared baths). See some pics and check reviews or book on Booking.com .

Spacious Rooms and a BFF Front Desk Guy : The Dude Berlin-Mitte is a great mid-range hotel perfectly located in the sweet spot between Kreuzberg and Mitte. It’s on a quiet street and the rooms are light filled and spacious. The front desk guy is beyond friendly. He has a lot of opinions about what to do in Berlin and he’s not shy about telling you about it. Check reviews or book on Booking.com .

Cool creative space in middle of Kreuzberg : On my most recent visit, we used an Airbnb in Kreuzberg as our base of operations. It’s a really cool neighborhood with good transportation connections and lots of restaurants.

Please be mindful when booking an AirBnB in Berlin. Gentrification has been raising housing prices in what has historically been an inexpensive, artist-friendly city. Read the listings carefully and try to book with a host who is renting his or her own home, rather than with a commercial property manager.

Eight Unusual Places for Exploring Berlin’s Foodie Scene

Eat some currywurst.

Currywurst is a surprisingly delicious concoction of grilled bratwurst loaded with curried ketchup and served with the side of fries. It’s the most prolific street food in Berlin and you can find it anywhere, but check out this article for a list of some of the best stalls.

Get a Million Choices at Street Food Thursday

The Markthalleneun in Kreuzberg offers up a weekly Street Food Thursday, which is quite a scene. During the event, there are more vendors than usual and the market stays open later in order to accommodate the after work crowd. It’s quite a happening with food ranging from the aforementioned currywurst to grilled cheese sandwiches, Thai food, crepes and Italian. I ate the currywurst (above), the Turkish dumplings and the spaetzle. I also stocked our AirBnB with fresh bread, hummus, cheese, veggies and olives.

Tips for visiting : The normal farmer’s market is open Fri/Sat 10a-6p and the Thursday event is open from 5-10pm.

Mauer Park Flea Market

On Sundays, Mauer Park hosts their weekly flea market. It has the usual assortment of used clothes and craftspeople. But what’s even better, is the long row of street food stalls. You can choose from every manner of food, from Mexican to falafal, washed down with beer, coffee or ice cream. You can also have a seat and a pint at the Mauersegler Berlin beer garden.

Tips for visiting : Open 10a-6p on Sundays only

Slow Down for Brunch at Distrikt Coffee

Distrikt Coffee is located in the Prenzlauer Berg neighborhood. They brew a perfect cup of strong coffee and their breakfast food is to die for. The french toast with fruit compote will spoil you forever and the avocado toast as truly surprising flavors on fresh chewy bread.

Tips for visiting : Distrikt Coffee isn’t far from the Hamberger Baunhauf and ME Collection (both noted below) so you can breakfast there before exploring the neighborhood. Open 8a-4p weekdays and from 9:30a on weekends.

Mediterranean Brunch at Cafe Mugrabi

This small cafe is located in Kreuzberg. They offer southeastern Mediterranean breakfast specialties like Shakshuka and Hummus Sabich. The food is so good there that I dug right in and forgot to take a picture (both times!). Trust me, it’s awesome. On nice days, they have sidewalk patio seating that overlooks Gorlitzer park.

Tips for visiting : Open daily 10a-6p. Not great for large groups.

Be a Chocoholic at Fassbender & Rausch

(Recommended by Laura of Travelers Universe)

If you love chocolate, there’s no sweeter place in Berlin than Fassbender & Rausch. This is the largest chocolate shop in the world and their popular upstairs café upstairs is an amazing place to relax after a day of sightseeing. The café serves some of the best hot chocolate money can buy and if you visit Berlin during winter, this is the perfect place to warm yourself up.

Pop downstairs to buy a traditional marzipan chocolate heart and marvel at all the chocolate sculptures on display before hitting the  Christmas markets . In summer, well, you’ll have to make do with the 200+ varieties of filled chocolates, truffles, and delicious cakes.

Tips for visiting : Open Mon-Sat 10a-8p, Sun 11a-8p.

Take a Local Food Tour

Rather than taking my word for it, let a local be your guide to Berlin’s foodie scene. Do one of these tours early in your visit, then go back later and revisit your favorite place. Kreuzberg Food Tour : This is an AirBnB experience tour offered by Gökçen, who has been doing food tours for ten years. This tour explores Berlin’s immigrant history with 3-4 stops that are off the tourist trail. Book it here .

Craft Beer Tour : This is not a pub crawl, but rather an education in Berlin’s centuries old brewing tradition. The tour wanders Prenzlauer Berg and visits three brew pubs and beer bars with the opportunity to check out five beers. Book it here .

Four Cool Things to Do in Berlin that Explore the Cold War

Tour the stasi prison.

The Berlin-Hohenschönhausen Memorial is located on the site of the former Stasi Prison. It was used as a camp during WWII and was later converted into a secret prison. The Stasi was fueled by paranoia and they used the prison to interrogate and torture political prisoners prior to executing or transferring them elsewhere.

Their tours offer an informative, and very sobering account of the fragility of human rights and public discourse in East Berlin during the cold war.

Tips for visiting : They offer tours in English only at specific times of the day, check their website for the latest info . Give yourself at least :45 minutes to get out there on the tram.

Take a Cold War Berlin Architecture Tour

(Recommended by Abigail King of Inside the Travel Lab)

The Cold War in Berlin wasn’t just about the wall: architecture across east and west became ensnared in the ideological battle. On this Context Travel architectural tour (run by qualified academics), not only will you see a side of Berlin that most others miss but it’s also a quick and fascinating way to see Berlin in one day.

At the end of the World War Two, one of Berlin’s many problems included the 1.5 million people left homeless and in desperate need of accommodation. A housing space race began, with butch ceramics of the Soviet drive for conformity competing with individualistic design in the West.

The “East” side begins in Karl-Marx Allee, a broad, stern street with a small café that contains part of Stalin’s statue moustache. The west takes in the Hansa Quarter, an ambitious social housing project involving Alvar Aalto and Oscar Niemeyer.

Pro Tip : Wear comfortable walking shoes as you cover a lot of ground. Also, ask them about the underground station tour. Book the tour here .

Channel Your Inner Bond at the German Spy Museum

The Spy Museum is pretty touristy, and I can’t see a local going there…but it’s worth a visit anyway. I expected a lot of kitsch, which it certainly delivers, but the museum is also stuffed full of hands-on exhibits demonstrating spycraft. They have stories about famous (and infamous) spies and the ingenious devices that they used to: listen in on, take pictures of and transport secret information. They even have a brassiere spy camera!

Tips for visiting : It’s easy to find on Potsdamer Platz and is open daily 10am-8pm.

Learn About Life in the DDR

Like the Spy Museum, the DDR museum is pretty kitschy. But it provides an interesting insight into what it was like living in East Berlin during the Cold War. You can take a virtual drive on Berlin’s streets by sitting in an ancient Trabant car (which my husband could barely wedge himself into). There are exhibits on daily life, education (and indoctrination), the media and even a full sized sample apartment.

Tips for visiting : The museum is very near to the . It’s open 9a-9p everyday.

What to Do in Berlin if You Like Edgy Art: 10 Crazy Spots

Take a goofy shot in a photoautomat.

These old school photo booths are littered across Berlin, just keep your eyes open and pop into the first available booth. It ain’t an Annie Liebowitz portrait, but it only costs €2 and it’s a fun souvenir.

See Wacky Creatures at the Monsterkabinett

The Monsterkabinett feels like the animatronic designers from Disneyworld took a maker class, did some peyote and then went to Burning Man. And…that’s all I’m going to tell you about it other than to demand that you go and see it.

Tips for visiting : They run a loose operation with an erratic schedule, usually from 4pm (or sometimes 6pm) to 9:30pm. Check their schedule here . Go early to the courtyard to buy tickets and then have a drink at the nearby bar while you wait.

Check out the Neurotitan Gallery

While you’re waiting to get into the Monsterkabinett, check out the Neurotitan Gallery. They specialize in edgy urban art and site-specific installations that blend sculpture, painting and street art. The stairwell leading up to the gallery is chock full of graffiti and there is also a cool boutique on the same floor.

Tips for visiting : Open Mon-Sat 12-8p.

Find Contemporary Art, Collections and a Cafe at the ME Collection

The ME Collection houses the private Olbricht collection, which includes works from the 16th century to today. The collection also features an offbeat cabinet of curiosities housing 300 objects (including an alleged unicorn) from the Renaissance and Baroque periods. They also have a museum store with cute gifts and kids books as well as a cozy cafe. After a couple of hours spent walking around, we gladly hung out in their easy chairs, perusing their pile of art books.

The collection is on Auguststraße (northeast of Hackescher Markt) and the whole street is full of other galleries, so you can make a slow afternoon of window shopping for art.

Tips for visiting : Open Wednesday-Monday 12-6p.

Wander Through the Parliament of Trees

(Recommended by Corina of Another Milestone )

Located on the shore of Spree river in Berlin, across from the Reichstag building, the Parliament of Trees can easily be taken for a garden and overlooked by passers by. But it’s is actually a work of art created by Ben Wagin as a memorial for the victims of the Berlin Wall. 16 trees (for 16 federal states) were planted, symbolizing the unification of Germany.

The garden is bordered by a granite wall formed of authentic pieces from the Berlin Wall. The blocks are painted with scenes from the Wall’s history and it features the number of victims who died before the wall was finally demolished. Visitors can sit down on the bench and discover the different elements of the garden. It’s not popular, but it’s one of the more interesting places to visit in Berlin for those who want to know more about Berlin’s history.

Tips for visiting : This is an easy add-on if you are also visiting the nearby Brandenberg Gate. Open Friday-Sunday 11a-5p.

See Contemporary Art at the Hamburger Bahnhauf

There are 200 art museums in Berlin. You could spend your whole itinerary hopping from one to the next. I’m calling out the Hamburger Bahnhauf as one of the more interesting places in Berlin, not only for its thought provoking contemporary exhibits but also its lovely architecture. The Neoclassical building used to be a train station, and was re-purposed into the museum in the 1980’s. They feature audacious contemporary works created since 1960 and have a large collection of sculptures, photography and paintings.

Tips for visiting : The basic exhibitions ticket is €14 but they upsell for special exhibitions at €8 each.

See Contemporary Art in an Old WWII Bunker

Contemporary art is often created with surprise in mind, and indeed it was certainly surprising to explore the Sammlung Boros collection. They have chosen to exhibit the works in a stark concrete building that was built as a WWII bunker. During the Cold War, it was repurposed by the Red Army into a prisoner of war camp. During the ’50’s it served as cold storage for bananas and in the 90’s it became a techno club.

Christian Boros purchased the building in 2003 and re-modeled it for his private family collection. This art is as edgy as the sharp concrete corners of the building itself. I didn’t love it all, but it was certainly worth seeing. And I did love learning about the history of the building.

Tips for visiting : They strictly meter the visitors and you must get a reservation , which I recommend that you do way in advance.

Enter a Parallel Universe in the Kcymaerxtheare

Are you willing to go way off the beaten path in search of an alternative universe? Good. Then take the U-Bahn and then a bus and then walk yourself to the Malzfabrik complex. This old beer factory has been re-purposed into a creative urban industrial zone.

But Malzfabrik has a crack in the space/time continuum with a parallel universe called the Kcymaerxthaere shimmering just under the surface. This work of extreme imagination was designed by Eames Demetrios. It’s a story telling art project featuring the lives, loves and wars of the Kcymaerxthaere.

The placque at Malzfabrik commemorates the Bravenleavanne. They believed in good deeds for their own sake—not just for reward or fear of punishment. When they became too materialistic, they fled in horror from what we call Britain to start afresh here.

This project has kooky written all over it and you can get on the bandwagon not only in Berlin, but also in Joshua Tree, California , where I found the Krablin Kabin, the abandoned hut of a religious prisoner-of-war. There are also 141 other locations around the world .

Tips for Visiting : Best to go during the workday and they also runs tours twice a month .

Find Edgy Art in the Bathanien

The Bathanien is a contemporary and performing arts venue in the gentrified Kreuzberg district. Their mission is to provide work space for professional artists, project workshops and exhibition space. This 19th century monster of a building was originally a welfare hospital.

When the hospital closed in the 70’s, the building was slated for demolition, but a neighborhood effort saved it. It’s worth wandering the halls to feel Kreuzberg’s history, but be sure to go into the East Wing exhibition spaces to see what’s on.

Tips for visiting : The exhibition rooms are open Tuesday-Sunday 2-7pm.

Find some Whimsy at the Zozoville Gallery

Artists Johan Potma and Mateo Dineed call Zozoville a “…platform for freaks, misfits, and the occasional well balanced individual”. True that.

This gallery is stuffed full of friendly monsters in a modern incarnation of Maurice Sendak’s “Where the Wild Things Are” (which is the best children’s book ever). The gallery sells prints, children’s books, postcards and furry pillows.

Tips for Visiting : They are located in the Friedrichshain neighborhood, not far from Urban Spree (pictured below). Open Monday-Saturday 12-7p.

Eight Cool Places in Berlin for Exploring Urbex, Graffiti & Street Culture

Spotting street art and graffiti.

Checking out the graffiti and street art is the coolest of cool things to do in Berlin. The modern graffiti movement may have been birthed in New York City , but they have perfected it in Berlin. The city’s post-cold war economic dis-affectation, abandoned buildings and a bohemian culture provided the perfect fertilizer for Berlin’s street art.

There is no one district for street art because it’s spread all over the city, particularly on and east of where the wall had been. Look for it in Kreutzberg, on the East Side Gallery, near Urban Spree in Friedrichshain, Mauer Park, the alleys near the Monsterkabinett and on the streets in Schöneberg around the Street Art Museum (noted below).

Get motivated to see Berlin street art with my guide. Then do a deep dive into Berlin’s graffiti scene by taking a tour with Alternative Berlin. They have two tours (I took both) and each covers a different aspect of street art.

Tour #1 : This one focuses on Urban Spree and Friedrichshain, which also includes a workshop where you can make your own stencil. Book it here .

Tour #2 : This one covers a little of Friedrichshain but focuses more on Kreuzberg and Schöneberg (near the Urban Nation street art museum). Book it here .

Visit the Urban Nation Street Art Museum

Urban Nation has a long history of curating murals and street art festivals not only in Berlin, but also in places like Reykjavik Iceland . They have upped the ante in Berlin with the opening of the Street Art Museum on Bülowstraße street in Schöneberg. The museum celebrates both local and global artists, including pieces by artists like Shepard Fairey and FinDac, They also have a stunningly complicated mural by Dima Rebus on the exterior.

Tips for Visiting : The museum is free and open Tues-Sun 10a-6p. Be sure to leave time for wandering along the street between the Bülowstraße and U Nollendorfplatz metro stations because you’ll find a TON of murals there.

Crawl Around the Abandoned Teufelsberg Listening Station

If you like both graffiti and URBEX, then you should absolutely visit the abandoned Teufelsberg Listening Station- I found it to be one of the most cool things to do in Berlin. Teufelsberg is an old listening and broadcasting post used by the US during the cold war. They used the station to listen in on Eastern European signals and also broadcast US propaganda into the east. It was abandoned by the Americans when the cold war ended.

It’s been unofficially taken over by a collective of street artists, URBEX fanatics and entrepreneurs. You pay a small fee to enter and can then wander freely around the site. They even have a little barbecue joint where you can get food and drink. It reminded me of Slab City, California , with it’s squatters vibe and freewheeling ethic.

Tips for visiting : It’s a 35 minute train ride into the suburbs and then a 30 minute walk through the woods to the site. Give yourself at least two hours once there.

Take a Tour and Learn About Secret Berlin

Berlin Underworlds Association Tours : These tours are recommended by Becki Enright from Borders of Adventure. Given Berlin’s huge alternative scene, it’s no surprise that underground’ tours are a thing – specifically relating to the Metro system. These tours are run by the Underworlds Association, whose aim it is to reveal the rich history beneath the surface of the city. Think war bunkers and air raid shelters, alongside escape routes for those trying to get to the other side of the wall – which is the tour I highly recommend for a different perspective of the city’s history. Learn more about the Berlin Underground Tours .

Hidden Spots in Tempelhof Airport : Get access to the bunkers and tunnels lurking in the former airport buildings at Tempelhof and learn about its role during WWII. Book the tour here .

Street Photography in Fredrichshain : This tour is hosted by Médine, who will give you a primer on street style photography and take you around their home neighborhood. Book the tour here .

Six Alternative Nightlife Options

Go to a beer garden that isn’t the prater.

The Prater is one of the oldest beer gardens in Berlin and it’s very popular with tourists. Why not explore a few of Berlin’s many neighborhood beer gardens that cater more to locals?

The Republic Berlin is located just down the street from the Dude Hotel (above) and the Tresor club (below). They have tables as well as Adirondack chairs for lounging. They offer a rotating menu of food and plenty of craft beers on tap.

Birgit and Beer is in southern Kreuzberg. They have a guy making great pizza with have tons of tables and soft seating spread around a rather large area.

Restaurant Brachvogel Betrieb is right on the Landwehr canal. They have indoor and outdoor seating and an attached mini-golf course.

Drink for Cheap by Treating a Convenience Store Like a Bar

Like everywhere else in the world, Berlin convenience stores sell the usual deadly selection of cigarettes, snacks and beer. Unlike everywhere else however, at night they convert into sidewalk bars. Most of the stores have a picnic table or chairs set up on the sidewalk. You can simply purchase a beer from the cooler and hang out on the sidewalk drinking it. Much cheaper than a bar and great for people watching.

Go Techno at Tresor Nightclub

(Recommended by Dave Anderson of Jones Around the World)

Berlin is arguably the weirdest and wildest city in the world, especially when it comes to their nightlife industry. It’s a crazy scene out there, and I truly believe that if you haven’t been out to one of the dozens of techno clubs, than you haven’t fully experienced the essence of Berlin! I’ll never forget my first time going out in the city, and being truly amazed at this popular techno club called Tresor. 

At Tresor, the “headliners” of the evening don’t start until 5A.M, and there was nothing but heavy Germany industrial techno blasting from the speakers. Then when I tried to leave, I accidentally stumbled upon their basement stage that felt so surreal like it was a movie set with the DJ playing behind prison bars, dancers in cages, and so much smoke you could barely see. 

Tips for Clubbing : Tresor is one of the main  Berlin  clubs which is a bit easier to get into for tourists. However, the hardcore techno fans looking for a weekend filled with debauchery try to get into the infamous Berghain club (where it’s common for people to arrive on Friday night, and leave on Monday morning). If you enjoy Gay nightclubs, check out this guide for Gay Berlin , it has a ton of suggestions for bars and nightclubs.

Learn About Berlin’s Sexual Identity

Prior to WWII, Berlin had a rich history as a sexually permissive town. That sexual freedom ended with the Nazis. But Berlin rebounded and this tour explores it’s sexual identity, the “Institute of Sexual Science”, how the AIDS epidemic affected Berlin, and the LGBTQ community. The tour is run by Jeff, a sociologist and student of gender, queer studies and sexuality. Book the tour here .

Three of the Kitschiest Museums Ever

Hang out with the hoff at the david hasselhoff museum.

(Recommended by Jonathan Sacks of Everybody Hates a Tourist)

In 1989, the Berlin Wall fell. That summer, David Hasselhoff’s “Looking for Freedom” topped the German charts. The Circus Hostel has commemorated this shared history by opening the free  David Hasselhoff Museum . The museum features Hoff memorabilia from throughout his career, including Knight Rider, Baywatch, his musical career, and the fall of the Berlin Wall. It only takes 5 minutes to see, and worth it if you are near Rosenthaler Platz.

Tips for Visiting : The museum is in the basement of the hostel and it’s open 24/7, so you can visit after a late night out.

Find Vintage PacMan at the Computerspiele Museum

(Recommended by Margherita Ragg of The Crowded Planet)

Berlin is full of crazy sights and activities, and one of my favorites is the Computerspiele Museum on Karl Marx Allee, which also happens to be one of my favorite streets in Berlin.

This museum is dedicated to video games. It includes the very first games developed in the fifties, with nothing but blinking lights, to the most modern VR affairs with special goggles. There are exhibits and information panels detailing the history and development of gaming, plus plenty of games you can just play at will…whether you want to have a go at the original Super Mario in a replica 1980s bedroom, or prefer to play some new football or racing game.

Nostalgia lovers should make a beeline to enter the replica arcade, with true vintage games like Frogger and PacMan. Spending a day at the Computerspiele Museum is definitely one of the  coolest things to do in Berlin in winter!

Tips for Visiting : Avoid the weekend when it’s full of families and plan to spend at least a half a day there playing the games.

Read More : If you like kitschy museums and offbeat adventures, check out this list of weird things to do in San Francisco and this one for Reykjavik .

Two Secret Places for Taking a Chill Pill

Hang out on the landwehr canal.

The Landwehr Canal bisects Kreauzberg and Schöneberg like a green chill machine. All along the canal are walking paths, trees and green spaces which are perfecting for hanging out. There is a particularly nice stretch in Statthaus Böckler Park. You can have a drink in the Brachvogel Betrieb beer garden or on one the restaurant barges which are parked along the canal.

Tips for Visiting : Perfect for a warm summer evening and bring something to sit on.

Take in the Baths at the Liquidrom

(Recommended by Inma Gregorio of A World to Travel)

Liquidrom is a wellness complex that includes several saunas, spa, and an impressive flotation room with underwater music.

Like many German baths, you must enter the saunas naked but you’ll find a fairly respectful audience and very clean and well-maintained facilities. I also recommend that you leave quite some time to enjoy the large flotation pool (with a bathing suit). It has a relaxing, spacey vibe and is perfect for for  Berlin in the winter .

Tips for Visiting : It costs €20 for a two hour visit in the spa and sauna.

Two Ways Get Great Berlin Views

Views from the Reichstag

The Reichstag is the German parliament building and they offer free tours and fantastic 360′ views of Berlin. This building was gutted during the second world war. It sat forlorn through much of the Cold War. But with reunification, came a renewed effort to move Germany’s capital back to Berlin.

They kept the older building facade but the interior is all new. They have also built a stunning reflective dome on the roof. A gentle ramp winds you in circles so that you can see the full scope of Berlin. I recommend timing your tour so that you can be in the dome for sunset. It takes advance planning to get a reservation slot, but it’s worth it.

Tips for visiting : Book your reservations here . Open daily 8am-midnight.

Views from Berliner Dom

If you can’t get a reservation for the Reichstag, go to the Berliner Dom instead. Berlin’s Catholic cathedral has a beautiful interior, but even better, you can climb up one of the domes for a 360′ view of Berlin.

Tips for Visiting : The ticket is €7 and their opening hours vary, so check their website for current info .

Getting Around Berlin

Berlin’s public transportation system is excellent and inexpensive. While they do have Uber there, using a combination of trams, buses and trains will be the best way to get around this sprawling city.

They run on an honor system. This means that you need to have a valid ticket, but you don’t need to tag on/off when you use the public transportation. However, they do spot check and they will fine you if you aren’t carrying a valid ticket. They have zone pricing and everything on this list of cool things to do in Berlin are within the “AB zone” ticket.

A single ticket is ~€3, however it will be much more convenient if you purchase an all-day or multi-day ticket. You can purchase a single day ticket for €7. On my recent trip, I was there for six days and purchased the 7-day €30 ticket. I used public transport ~4 times per day, which means that the pass paid for itself on the third day of my visit.

Enjoy all of the weird that Berlin has to offer and habe Spaß (have fun).

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Friday 30th of August 2019

Cheers for this Article! I love learning about new places and I don't know a lot about Berlin.

18 Alternative Berlin Insider Tips

Updated December 4, 2020

// By Margherita

Welcome to our alternative Berlin guide! After visiting the city over 10 times in the past five years, we’ve collected the best alternative Berlin insider tips from our local friends here. Keep checking this space, we’ll be adding to this list!

Looking for more inspiration? Check our post with 12 UNMISSABLE day trips from Berlin!

Love it or hate it, I’m sure you’ll agree with me – Berlin is as alternative as it is unique. The city’s recent history produced a counterculture unlike any other, making Berlin a place where what is quirky, weird and unusual elsewhere is celebrated as part of the city’s urban landscape.

Every free moment we have whenever we are in Berlin, we go looking for alternative Berlin sights . You all know that Berlin is the alternative capital of Europe, with a vibrant street art scene, lots of craft beer bars, abandoned buildings, restaurants from all over the world and unusual museums – check our Berlin in winter guide  for more weird museum info!

To compile this alternative Berlin guide, we searched high and low, asked friends, bloggers and Berlin lovers for their Berlin favourites , asked people on Twitter and stopped random people in the street – and here are the alternative Berlin insider tips we came up with.

For even more alternative Berlin tips , check our Berlin diary on Wowanders , including lots of cool places to eat and drink – rooftop bars, vegan restaurants, burger places and more!

Alternative Berlin Insider Tips

1) teufelsberg.

Recommended by the Berlin Tourism Board

Gone are the days when this alternative Berlin sight was the domain of intrepid urban explorers – now Teufelsberg is well known, but it’s still worth a visit!

Teufelsberg translates as ‘Devil’s Mountain’ , and it’s the highest hill in Berlin. It’s a man-made mountain, ‘built’ from grassed-over WW2 debris. So far, nothing strange – there are loads of man-made mountains across Europe, like Montestella in Milan .

What makes Teufelsberg weird is that it was built on that precise site, in the heart of Grunewald Forest , to cover  Wehrtechnische Fakultät , the Nazi technical college, so sturdily built that it couldn’t be demolished with explosives.

In the Fifties, West Berliners went to Teufelsberg to ski in winter , as the hill’s western side housed some ski slopes and ski jumps. Everything was closed down in the Sixties, when the NSA built a spying station on top of Teufelsberg – being the highest place in Berlin, it was the ideal location to gather East German intelligence . Those crazy-looking balloons are radomes , weatherproof structures built to protect American radars.

Teufelsberg fell into disrepair after the Wall fell. It was squatted, it became one of the chosen locations of Berlin’s urban explorers and street artists , who painted the now-gutted building with colourful pieces.

Then, something weird happened. A group of squatters started organising guided tours , charging an entrance fee of €7 (for the so-called ‘silent’ tour) or €15 (for the once-daily ‘history’ tour). The silent tour means you get ushered around by a grumpy-looking squatter, who makes you feel like it’s such a privilege for you to be there, and refuses to give any explanation whatsoever and answer your questions on account of ‘you should have booked the history tour’.

Now, visiting Teufelsberg is a cool experience . The street art is great, the place is eerie to say the least, and the views over Berlin are amazing. The best part is entering the radomes with their crazy acoustics.

But I must say, my visit was spoilt by how rude the squatter that took us around was. I have nothing against them charging (they do maintain the place after all) – but refusing to answer a simple question and treating paying customers as if they were an inconvenience is just plain rude.

I hope the message will go through – because Teufelsberg is unique, and definitely deserves a visit .

Where to Stay – Quirky and Unusual Berlin Hotels

You can’t explore alternative Berlin and just stay at a backpacker flophouse or chain hotel! Here are out eight favourite quirky places to stay in Berlin, each of them unique!

• Hotel Bikini – design-themed ‘urban jungle’ hotel with rooftop bar and Airstream food truck outside
• The Circus Hostel – famous for its microbrewery with adjacent David Hasselhoff museum, this is one of Berlin’s best luxury hostels catering to a young, fun-loving crowd.
• The Circus Hotel – the upmarket brother of Circus Hostel, this hotel features individually-decorated rooms and excellent value for money.
• Michelberger Hotel – artsy hostel in an industrial building, with unique decor and great amenities-
• nhow Hotel – sleek music themed hotel with recording suites and gigs often taking place in the bar.
• Ackselhaus  – secluded boutique hotel with individual travel-themed rooms
• Ostel – The DDR Hostel  – suffering from Ostalgie? In this hostel you’ll experience life in the DDR, with original 1970s socialist decor!
• Lulu Guldsmeden  – Nordic-chic sustainable property with hammocks and four-poster beds in a 1850s building

2) Berlin Graffiti Tour and Workshop

Recommended by Stok, psychologist and graffiti writer

Street art is plentiful in Berlin – you’ll find great examples all over Warschauer Strasse, in Kreuzberg, around Tegel, in Wedding, and there’s even Urban Nation, a new street art gallery in Schöneberg.

If you have a keen interest in street art, and besides looking at cool pieces you really want to understand the history, development and cultural significance of Berlin street art , we recommend joining this Graffiti Tour and Workshop .

The tour is divided in two parts – the first takes place in Kreuzberg, where a street artist takes you around, detailing how street art developed in Berlin from tags, to bubbles and finally to the amazing pieces you see these days, and telling you the stories behind artworks by famous artists like ROA and Os Gemeos .

Afterwards, the ‘workshop’ part of the tour continues in a Lichtenberg warehouse turned street art studio , where all tour participants try their hand at producing their own artwork using stencils and spray paint.

Here’s mine – and if you want to know more about the  Graffiti Tour and Workshop (definitely a top alternative Berlin attraction) check out our Art in Berlin post !

Looking for other Berlin Street Art Tours?

• Berlin Street Art by Bike
• Berlin 3 Hour Street Art Tour
• Berlin Street Art Off the Grid Tour
• Kreuzberg Street Art and Urban Life

3) Urban Exploration

Recommended by the one and only Felipe and Marcela

For a long time, this was at the top of our alternative Berlin list . What could possibly be the coolest, most adventurous and craziest thing to do in Berlin? Urban exploration , urbex for short – basically breaking into abandoned places and seeing what they’re like.

Teufelsberg above is ‘urbex for beginners’ – you’re not actually breaking in as you’re paying the surly squatters for the privilege, but as the place is hardly secure, it kind of feels like breaking in. In any case, we were eager to experience ‘real’ urbex.

In 2015, we were invited by Felipe and Marcela of amazing blog Fotostrasse to join them in exploring Blub, an abandoned water park in Neukölln . It’s easy to get in – no need to climb over fences or cut through barb wire.

Once we were in, we felt as if we were in a zombie movie . It was thrilling and terrifying at the same time. The outdoor and indoor pools were littered with various kinds of debris, from broken glass to plastic lounge chairs, empty spray cans and planks of wood. The sides of the pool were covered in graffiti and some pretty cool street art pieces – but for the whole time, we half-expected an army of undead to come rushing to us with gaping mouths, ready to eat our brains.

We spent a couple of hours just wandering around taking pictures, down to the gym where machines laid stacked in a corner and to the ‘oriental room’ where Marcela and Felipe saw people stealing tiles during their first visit a few months back. It was incredible to believe that only 15 years ago, this place was named one of Germany’s top 100 attractions, and that thousands of people visited its water slides and spa pools every year.

A couple of days later, always with Felipe, Marcela and a bunch of other friends, we went to another place,  Krankenhaus Mariendorfer Weg –  an abandoned hospital in Neukölln .

The trouble with urbex is that abandoned places are often demolished or burnt down to collect insurance and kick-off redevelopment. Blub burnt down a few months back, just after our visit, and the hospital is due to be demolished shortly.

In late 2018, the abandoned hospital no longer exists, and Blub was reported to be extremely dangerous to visit , because of crime and structural damage after the fire.

For more urbex ideas, check Fotostrasse – they have lots of articles on the topic, and you can get info of where it’s still possible to experience urbex in 2019. Don’t miss experiencing this side of alternative Berlin! 

4) Tempelhof

Recommended by Katharina, chef and lover of detective novels.

Once upon a time, this was an airport . It was one of the oldest airports in the world, having been opened in 1923, and it was expanded and revamped by the Nazis, making it one of the few surviving examples of Nazi architecture alongside Olympiastadion.

In 2008, Tempelhof ceased operations. Any other European city would have probably sold such a large and profitable piece of land to investors and redeveloped it into luxury condos. But not Berlin.

After its closure, Tempelhof became the largest public park in Berlin . It is open every day from 6 am to sunset, it is now a local favourite for an afternoon stroll, frisbee match or bike ride – and if you’re up to trying something a little different, you can have kiteboarding lessons.

If you can, it’s also worth exploring Tempelhof Airport inside on a guided tour – here are two tour options!

• Berlin Tempelhof Airport – History Tour
• Secret Places of Tempelhof Airport (includes tunnels and bunkers)

5) The Soviet Memorial at Treptow Park

Recommended by Peter

I am a big fan of Soviet memorials , I must admit. I find them fascinating – from the iconography to the sheer size of their statues. In June, we decided it was time to visit the Soviet Memorial at Treptow Park, Berlin’s largest.

Despite being huge, we couldn’t find the memorial, well hidden by the trees of Treptow Park. We wandered and wandered, and was about to give up, when suddenly, the memorial appeared – huge, imposing, intimidating.

The memorial at Treptow Park was the largest in the Communist world, from its opening in 1949 until the Stalingrad memorial was completed in the 1960s. It was built to commemorate the Red Army victims of the Battle of Berlin . It is now the resting place of over 5000 fallen soldiers.

Unlike Memento Park in Budapest , that was created in post-Communist times, the memorial at Treptow Park is left exactly as it was when it opened . You enter through a red granite gate, symbolising Soviet flags.

A walkway lined by marble sarcophagi, engraved with scenes of the war against Fascism, leads to the centrepiece of the memorial – a gigantic statue of a Soviet soldier standing over a broken swastika. The statue is said to have been inspired by a Red Army soldier, who ran risked his life under machine-gun fire during the final moments of WW2 to save a 3 year old girl.

It was a chilly, overcast day. The atmosphere in the memorial was sombre and oppressive. It was as if the huge soldier standing over the swastika was watching over us – or just watching us.

6) Alternative Berlin Food Tours

We believe there’s no better experience to get under the skin of a city than a food tour – and naturally, Berlin has a lot to offer when it comes to unusual food tours. Over the years, we’ve been able to join several different alternative Berlin food tours – our favourite were a Mitte food tour by bike and a Vietnamese food tour around Prenzlauer Berg.

We’ve also heard amazing things about the Cooking Across Borders experience run by Context Travel, where guests meet refugee families accompanied by a local historian and migration expert and conclude the experience by cooking all together. The experience seems to be on hold as of December 2018 – I will let you know as soon as it resumes (and I’ll go try it myself!)

Here are some of the best food tours in Berlin , showing the city’s alternative side through its cuisine!

• Berlin 2 Hour Breakfast Food Tour
• Berlin 3 Hour Secret Food Tour
• Kreuzberg Culinary Food Tour
• Self-Guided Mitte Food Tour

7) Self-Guided Tour to Vegan Berlin

Recommended by Claudi, a vegan marathon runner

Keeping to its alternative soul, Berlin is also Europe’s most vegan friendly city! Vegan bakeries, restaurants and patisseries are literally everywhere, offering a mouthwatering range of plant-based delicacies (including vegan döner kebab , if you can believe it!), and most regular restaurants will have some great vegan options to share.

So, where to go if you want to find Berlin’s best vegan bites? Navigating options online is truly a daunting task, since every other vegan Berliner seems to have a different favourite vegan eatery. Once again, a local comes for help with some excellent Berlin vegan insider tips – just get yourself the Vegan Berlin Map, put together by Claudi, a lifelong Berlin resident and passionate vegan.

The map includes three self-guided tours – focusing on ‘indulgent’ vegan food around Neukölln, on ‘conscious’ establishments around Prenzlauer Berg and Mitte, and on all sorts of vegan delicacies around Warschauer Strasse. What sets this guide apart is that it doesn’t just feature food, but also yoga studios, upcycle shops, urban gardens and more – pretty much, everything you need for a green alternative Berlin visit.

The map is just €5 and can be ordered via the GreenMe Berlin site.

8) Alternative Berlin Pub Crawl & Craft Beer Tour

You definitely don’t need me to tell you how amazing Berlin nightlife is! Techno lovers will definitely know of alternative (and in some cases clothing-optional!) clubs like Berghain and Kit Kat , but to be honest clubbing has never been my thing, and to a night in a sweaty disco I’ve always preferred a relaxed night out in a microbrewery or craft beer bar.

Guess what – there are plenty of pub crawls to choose from in Berlin , and if you want a local to show you the best places, a pub crawl is the way to go. Skip the ‘backpacker pub crawls’ and opt for something more relaxed like the famous Anti Pub Crawl , taking visitors to low-key drinking spots around the city (stag and hen groups are NOT allowed!) or the Craft Beer and Brewing Discovery Tour , run by a brewing expert and taking you through a history of beer in Berlin before sitting down at three excellent brewpubs.

9) Liquidrom

Looking for an unusual way to spend a night – or even a day – in Berlin? Head to Liquidrom, a futuristic spa located in a former train station.

From outside, Liquidrom looks like a postmodern tent, while inside you’ll find a range of saunas and baths. Yet, the real calling card of Liquidrom is the huge saltwater pool, where you can spend time relaxing and listening to music while different colour lights are projected over the arches surrounding the pool.

The effect is incredibly relaxing, almost out-of-body – especially if you’re lucky to visit at a time when the pool is not crowded. Try to avoid weekend evenings and festive days, and enjoy this alternative Berlin gem for wellness lovers!

10) Clärchens Ballhaus

In a place like Berlin, where rave parties and techno clubs are everywhere, is there anything more alternative for a night out than ballroom dancing in a 19th century dancehall? Clärchens Ballhaus is exactly that – a 100 year old dancehall in the centre of Mitte, where the average age of guests is over 70 (but 20 year olds are not uncommon), spinning their brogues with tango, polka and cha cha tunes.

Clärchens Ballhaus also has a beer garden and old school restaurant, but the real deal is the dance room upstairs, with Baroque decor and faded chandeliers. It’s amazing to imagine that you can still party at one of the hangouts of legendary 1920s Berlin. If you feel that you need to perfect your moves before hitting the dance floor, lessons are often held at the start of the evening.

11) Design Panoptikum

Freak show meets industrial machinery at this amazing oddball museum in Mitte. The Design Panoptikum is a self-styled ‘surreal museum of industrial objects’, where you’ll find things like mannequins surrounded by old cinema reels, oddly-shaped alembics, vintage aviation and medical equipment assembled around dolls and eerie lights… trust me, it’s weird.

Don’t let the €10 entrance ticket stop you from visiting. If the owner is there, he’ll gladly give you a tour or talk you through some of the objects, making the experience even more fun.

12) Subterranean Berlin Tour

Is there anything more alternative and (literally) underground than a Subterranean Berlin tour? The good folks at Berliner Unterwelten take visitors to air raid shelters, tunnels used to smuggle people out of East Germany, WW2 bunkers and more.

Their headquarters is near the Gesundbrunnen S-Bahn station, a place from where a network of secret bunkers and tunnels unfolds. Their flagship tour takes people through the history of Berlin via its underground passages and sewage tunnels , but there are also tours focusing on a specific time in Berlin history – a Cold War tour , visiting nuclear bunkers, and a ‘Under the Wall’ tour , retracing the steps of those who tried to escape.

Before or after one of the tours you can also visit the permanent exhibition about Hitler’s Germania, the utopian plan for Berlin.

13) Subway Cabrio Tour

Every single time I’m in Berlin I try to book a spot on the U-Bahn subway cabrio tour, and always fail. I’m a public transport nerd, and the idea of travelling down the massive Berlin U-Bahn railway network on an open carriage sounds too good to be true! I guess this sentiment is shared by many others, that’s why it’s so difficult to snap tickets.

The open car is ideal to take a look at tunnels, station architecture, control rooms and how the railway works. The tour departs late at night from Alexanderplatz station and it’s in German only. If you don’t speak German you’d miss out on the historical info about the U-Bahn – but you can always visit the Berliner U-Bahn museum if you want to know more.

Hope to be able to score a ticket soon and join this amazing alternative Berlin tour – you can book tickets at this link , they go for sale each year in February and cost €50 per person.

14) Berlin Walking Tour from Below

This tour takes people to a truly alternative side of Berlin that is just about to disappear – the Berlin of squatters, punk people and alternative lifestyles, proudly resisting the gentrification wave sweeping through the German capital.

The tour takes place in Kreuzberg and is led by a social worker who used to live in a squat, providing a true insider’s view of a side of Berlin that certainly contributed to making the city what it is today.

15) Tajikistan Tea Room

I honestly don’t know why this place is not a must stop on everyone’s alternative Berlin list. The Tadshikische Teestube (Tajikistan Tearoom) is located in the heart of Mitte, in a secluded location overlooked by most tourists. The tea room is actually a pavillion brought over by Soviet Tajikistan to the Leipzig trade fair in the 1970s. After the fair was over, Tajikistan donated the pavillion to the GDR, and the same was then transported to the heart of East Berlin.

Walking in feels like stepping into Central Asia. There are carpets on the floor, low tables and embroidered cushions, dozens of types of tea on the menu and delicious Russian dishes. On Mondays, tea ceremonies are held, with guests telling stories or giving lectures.

It’s the ideal place to stop in the heart of Mitte before heading back to explore alternative Berlin!

Have you ever considered visiting the Berlin Dungeon? Find out the best ways to get Berlin Dungeon tickets here!

16) Neue Heimat

Recommended by Finn, a real history and German culture lover, tour guide at Context Travel.

This is one of those places that is so quintessentially Berlin . Just off Warschauer Strasse S-Bahn, walking away from the Spree and towards the back of the railway tracks, lost in a maze of warehouses, you’ll find Neue Heimat – part street food, part cocktail bar, part biergarten in a former railway depot , with artists performing live music and a pop-up market every Wednesday.

When we visited, we had a White Russian and beers while all around food trucks offered snacks from all over the world, from Sicilian cannolo to Korean noodles.

17) Rosa Caleta

Recommended by Finn and about 10 other people

After we went to Neue Heimat during our night tour of Berlin with Finn, we walked to Kreuzberg, in search of a ‘very special restaurant’. We walked for about half an hour, and I was famished, when we finally got to Rosa Caleta – a Jamaican-European restaurant in the heart of Kreuzberg , run by a formidable, super friendly guy (whose name I cannot remember). I was so happy we took the time to walk there!

I had super spicy jerk tofu, Nick went for the Jamaican classic jerk chicken, while other people in other group had creative dishes such as spätzle with coconut. What made the place special was the atmosphere – not only was the food creative, delicious and unusual, but the owner was so friendly that I would return in a heartbeat just to laugh at his jokes again.

18) Berlin Burger International (BBI)

Recommended by the unstoppable Felipe

These days, there are more probably burger joints in Berlin that hipster beards in Kreuzberg . OK, maybe that’s an exaggeration. But if you want a choice burger, head to BBI in Neukölln, a hole in the wall that serves up the best burger we’ve had this year.

Their combinations are super creative . We went for an ‘El Gordito’ with guacamole, bacon and cheese, and an Italian-inspired one with grilled mozzarella, balsamic onions and toasted pine nuts. Every month there’s a special burger on offer. If there’s three of you or more, share a serving of chilli cheese fries , but beware – you’ll be stuffed for decades!

Another Alternative place to stay – Pfefferbett Hostel, sleep in a former brewery!

If you’ve been following us, you’ll know we enjoy staying in places that have character . Doesn’t matter if it’s a hostel or a luxury hotel, it’s the experience that counts. Having said that, we do have a very soft spot for design hostels –  Pfefferbett Hostel is a really good example of what we like .

First things first – location . Pfefferbett Hostel is in Prenzlauer Berg , one of the coolest neighbourhoods of Berlin. You’ll find TONS of hipster stuff (pop-up store specialising in 80’s vinyls, anyone?) but also some tasty falafel and doner joints, and a couple of restaurants that look right out of the GDR days. The hostel is in a place called ‘Pfefferberg’, a reconverted industrial site , where a former brewery used to exist. I love industrial archaeology, and when I first saw Pfefferberg, I went WOW. I just love the red-brick buildings and the chimney towering over it all.

The hostel itself is a really good place to stay . If you see the rooms, you’ll be forgiven to think you’re in a hotel, with fluffy duvets, TV and ensuite bathrooms. Common spaces are great too. There’s a 24/7 bar at reception, with a big screen showing football matches, a back garden and some outdoor tables out front. The bar downstairs offers excellent lunch specials ; we were surprised to see business people heading over to the hostel for their crispy halloumi salad or maultaschen!

One remarkable thing about Pfefferbett is that they manage to keep the ‘fun’ part and the ‘relax’ part completely separate . There’s no need of earplugs, like in many hostels. Pfefferbett is planned so that you can sleep like a baby upstairs while others party the night away at the bar. Believe me, I’ve had plenty sleepless nights in hostels!

There are two other things we really liked about Pfefferbett . First, they have a staff tips section on their site! We loved Marcel’s tip of cycling the entire length of the Berlin Wall. It’s at the top of our list for our next Berlin visit! Second – and perhaps most important – we learnt that the hostel is a wholly owned subsidiary of the VIA Verbund für Integrative Angebote Berlin , a social initiative to favour employment of disadvantaged people.

In fact,  Pfefferbett Hostel is a non-profit integration company. More than 40% of employees are people with severe disabilities, and the hostel offers them the chance to enter the labour market in a relaxed yet exciting environment. Some of these people otherwise may never have a chance to work and be included in mainstream society.

Staying at Pfefferbett, you’ll help support this initiative, and help change the life of a disadvantaged person.

Our Berlin trip was partly sponsored by Pfefferbett Hostel and Visit Berlin. All opinions remain our own.

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12 thoughts on “18 Alternative Berlin Insider Tips”

Great list! I’ve visited 6 of these sights. Gosh I love Berlin. Enjoy Poland!

Thanks! I never tire of Berlin… already miss it!

great to know that you liked your time in Berlin =]

It was largely because of YOU that I liked it!

I’m super glad that you enjoyed both the Soviet Memorial and Pfefferbett. Pfefferbett especially was really nice, but 100% because of the people we met there.

Thanks Dale! We did love Pfefferbett and would return in a heartbeat… and the soviet memorial, it was you guys that sent us there! can’t wait to get more tips for the next Berlin visit 🙂

Wow, these are great tips! I live in Berlin, but didn’t know half of these things. Adding them to the list!

Thanks Sam! I’m sure you’ll discover lots of cool new places soon, and when you do… please let me know!

Great compilation! There’s a lot of urbex material in Berlin indeed! I only managed to visit Spreepark, an abandoned theme park, but it made me wanna do more! Next time! 🙂

And guess what? Spreepark is on my list for our next vist – which no doubt will be very soon!

Read this post just for the ‘different’ things to do in Berlin this coming weekend…wasn’t expecting such a awesome review of the hostel we’ve booked. Looking forward to the whole trip so much more after reading good things about the place. Thanks

Thanks so much Candice! Pfefferbett hostel is really lovely, hope you enjoy your time there!

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Berlin Hidden Gems: 25 Unusual Things To Do In Berlin

Table of Contents

This post may contain affiliate links to things like tours, hotels, Amazon associates and products. These help me earn a small commission at no additional charge to you.

Berlin is a city with many popular tourist attractions, but there are also plenty of hidden gems in Berlin and lesser-known attractions.

BERLIN QUICK LINKS Accommodation: Booking.com / Hostelworld Tours: GetYourGuide / FreeToursByFoot Food experiences: EatWith Copy of Lonely Planet Berlin Getting there: flight ( Skyscanner ), train ( RailEurope ), bus ( FlixBus )

As my plane landed on the Berlin runway, my feelings were mixed. On the one hand, my arrival meant I’d officially left my beloved Asia behind after 13 months living there. On the other, it meant my Europe backpacking adventures were about to begin. With the promise of hearty German food and unusual things to do in Berlin, I couldn’t feel too down in the dumps. It was my second time in Berlin, the capital of Germany . Since I’d seen all the tourist highlights before, I decided to focus on the more alternative things to do in Berlin which I’d missed last time. Follow along with me for hidden gems in Berlin that often get overlooked!

Map of unusual things to do in Berlin

Alternative things to do in Berlin

Once I was checked in to my accommodation, it was time to explore . Even though it was still early, I was still on Asia time meaning it was already my late afternoon. So, not knowing when I was going to wilt, I headed out to find alternative things to do in Berlin. These are the coolest places to enrich your Berlin bucket list ! Explore quirky Berlin with a guide:

Explore Kreuzberg & Orienstrasse

My accommodation was located in Kreuzberg. Since I was on the hunt for quirky places in Berlin, this couldn’t have been better. Known for its artists, students and Turkish population, this part of Berlin is quirky, colourful and full of tasty hummus, falafel and shawarma. You’ll find street art galore and hipster bicycles lent against retro shop fronts. There’s an abundance of cafes, restaurants and bars all with outdoor seating, as well as boutiques, bookshops and record stores.

Suggested activity: Take an alternative bike tour of Kreuzberg

Oranienstraße is a particularly cool part of Kreuzberg. This long street technically stretches all the way from Checkpoint Charlie to Kreuzberg so you can walk the whole way if you want, though the first half would be less interesting. 

Oranienstraße becomes lively with lots of bars spilling out onto the streets. Arrive into Moritzplatz station and you’ll be in the thick of alternative Berlin.

Indulge in the vegan food scene

While vegan food is hardly unusual these days, the vegan scene in Berlin started with quirky pop-up cafes that have now become popular with people of all ages, but particularly the younger generation. While exploring the quirky places in Berlin, you’ll stumble across plenty of vegan cuisine. I visited Brammibal’s Donuts , a hidden Berlin gem in Kreuzberg beside the river, where I tucked into the most divine cherry cream glazed doughnut. Other vegan doughnut flavours include blackberry and matcha, raspberry pistachio and salted caramel hazelnut.

Suggested tour: Berlin vegan food tour

Markthalle Neun

If you’re looking for unusual things to do in Berlin, it doesn’t get better than a 120-year-old historic market full of hipster street food. Head down on Tuesdays, Fridays and Saturdays for a weekly market, and all other days (apart from Sundays) for general food stalls.

At Markthalle Neun there are German and Italian delicacies, craft beer, deli goods, pulled pork, vegan food and more. Seriously, come hungry! I wasn’t quite there after my Brammibals doughnut and that, my friends, was a crying shame. Don’t forget to snap some photos in the photoautomat booth.

Looking for foodspiration? Check out EatWith ‘s immersive food experiences by locals. From supper clubs to food crawls and cooking classes, there are some fantastic options.

Wander The East Side Gallery

It’s not exactly alternative Berlin: in fact, the East Side Gallery is one of the most popular places to visit. Still, there’s street art which makes it a cool, quirky place in my book. This open-air gallery on a 1,316m remaining section of the Berlin wall displays the work of artists from all around the world. Street art is renowned for telling stories, few of which are as important as the tale of the Berlin Wall.

Set your Google Maps to the East Side Gallery and spend an hour or so strolling while taking in the artwork.

HolzMarkt 25

Once you’ve had your fill of urban art at East Side Gallery, you’re really close to Holzmarkt 25 . This awesome outdoor market, meeting spot and bar is slightly off the beaten track in Berlin since it’s mainly locals who know about it. By the venue’s own admission, they’re fighting to save alternative venues in Berlin during an era of inflated rents and chain establishments invading the city.

So, to support the hidden places of Berlin and have a refreshing beer on the banks of the Spree, come down to Holzmarkt 25 from 2pm on weekdays and 1pm on Fridays and Saturdays.

Klunkerkranich rooftop bar

To finish your day at one of the coolest hidden places in Berlin, you could consider visiting a rooftop bar for views over the city. If that sounds good to you, I’d suggest Klunkerkranich on the rooftop of Neukölln Arcaden shopping centre .

Rather than a fancy sky bar, this hidden gem in Berlin is hipster-friendly. It’s tricky to locate but once you’ve taken the lift to the top floor and walked through the parking lot, you’ll find the entrance to the bar. The views out over the city are unrivalled, especially on a clear summers day. There’s a cover charge of $5 to enter Klunkerkranich. It’s right beside Rathaus Neukölln station so jump on a Metro from wherever you’ve been previously.

Stay in a refurbished caravan

For a quirky place to stay in Berlin, you can’t do better than the cosy caravans at Huttenpalast. Not only did I have a comfy double bed, but there were quirky furnishings and hot showers. Not the caravan life I’m used to but no complaints here. Check availability here . These next quirky places in Berlin were contributed by some of my favourite fellow travel bloggers…

The Stand By Me Tree

With its beautiful open spaces, tree-lined paths and boating lake, Berlin’s Tiergarten Park is the perfect escape from the busy city streets. One of the most unique things to see in Berlin is the Stand By Me Tree, located in the heart of the park with the opening lyrics of Ben E King’s iconic Stand By Me etched in its bark.  The tree grew in popularity after the death of Ben E King in 2015 and the chorus ‘Darling, darling, stand by me’ was etched on a second tree nearby. It can be quite difficult to locate the Stand By Me Tree in the 520-acre tree-filled park. Luckily the pathways are named and it is close to the intersection of Großer Weg and Großer Sternallee. The tree is about a 10-minute wall from the park entrance just off the roundabout at Victory Column. The pathways are named on Google Maps and the tree is located just off the side of the path. Entry submitted by David from Your Ireland Vacation .

Explore Teufelsberg

Another of the most unusual things to do in Berlin is find Teufelsberg , a site layered with history and modern quirkiness on a massive hill in the outskirts of the city.

Teufelsberg was the construction site of a planned Nazi military and technology college. The occupying forces attempted to demolish the building but were unable. Instead, they filled the building with rubble from war-torn Berlin and formed a man-made hill. It was covered with fill and trees were planted on the site that became one of the highest points in the American sector of West Berlin.

In 1961, the hill’s strategic importance stood out to American and British military figures. They built a secret spy tower and listening station on the site. It was constructed under the guise of a weather station and the East Germans and Russians were spied on until the end of the Cold War in 1989.

Once the Berlin Wall fell, the site was abandoned and changed hands several times. Today it is privately owned, but you can visit this Berlin off the beaten path attraction and check out the grounds and tower. It features several floors of street art as you ascend the spy tower. Entry submitted by Derek and Mike from Robe Trotting.

Take a small group tour to Teufelsberg .

Take a Cold War bunker tour

Dive into the dark past of Berlin and descend into its labyrinth of underground tunnels with Berliner Unterwelten. During a Berlin bunker tour , you’ll see how West Berlin prepared itself for the Cold War. With Russia threatening to use nuclear weapons, special bunkers were built throughout the continent. Often using vast empty spaces in the Berlin subway system, these bunkers were fitted with the most basic amenities. Only able to hold a limited number of people, the locations of these shelters weren’t even always disclosed to civilians. While the guide leads you through inconspicuous-looking doors of the fully operating metro stations, you’ll discover there’s a whole different world hiding behind them. Covered in cobwebs, the Cold War bunkers are intriguing relics of a slightly mythical event in European history. Situated underground, the Cold War bunker tour is quite literally a hidden gem in Berlin! Entry submitted by Zarina from Miss Travel Clogs .

Browse Cold War Berlin tours .

Visit the Waterfall at Viktoriapark

This lesser-known waterfall with a 79-feet drop is located at Viktoriapark in the borough of Friedrichshain-Kreuzberg. Viktoriapark is free to visit and includes the highest hill of the inner core of Berlin, offering great views of the city. The park is a quiet oasis within the bustling city of Berlin and invites for a little break to relax. By walking 5 minutes, you can visit to the former airport Berlin-Tempelhof, the Bergmannkiez (a famous area for cafés, restaurants and clubs) and Schwerbelastungskörper (the location the Nazis were planning to erect a gigantic triumphal arch in this area). Entry submitted by Chris from Punta Cana Travel Blog .

Berlin Street Art Tour & Workshop

Another option for visitors looking for alternative things to do in Berlin is a street art tour. There are a wide variety of tours to help you experience the hidden gems of Berlin. Many of the guides are street artists themselves (although they won’t disclose who they are).

After exploring the East Side, a fun option is to take a tour which includes the chance to create your own mural. You’ll be able to pick a stencil, trace it and then spray paint your design. Your guide will show you all of the various techniques. The street art workshop provides a wonderful way to not only visit unusual places in Berlin, but learn a new skill, too. Entry submitted by Kim from My Global Ways .

Book a Berlin street art walking tour .

The Parliament Of Trees

Located on the shore of Spree river in Berlin, across the Reichstag building, the Parliament of Trees is easily included in your Berlin itinerary . It’s often mistaken as a garden, but this Berlin hidden gem is actually a work of art created by Ben Wagin as a memorial for the victims of the Berlin Wall. Sixteen trees (for each federal state) were planted inside symbolising the unification of Germany.

The garden is bordered by a granite wall formed of authentic parts of the Berlin Wall. The blocks are painted with scenes from the Wall’s history and with the number of victims who died before the wall was demolished. Visitors can sit down on the bench and discover the different elements of the garden. 

The Parliament Of Trees may be off the beaten path in Berlin, but it’s an important landmark for those who want to know more about Berlin’s history and especially for those who are interested in Berlin Wall.

Entry submitted by Corina from Another Milestone.

Relax at Badeschiff

As if quirky Berlin wasn’t cool enough already, there’s a swimming pool in the river and a city beach! Badeschiff means ‘bathing ship’ and refers to the mechanism of the floating swimming pool in the river. The Spree is not clean enough to swim in so the inventive Berliners found a way to get around that: swimming in a beautiful and clean pool with views of the river.

The whole area around the pool works as a beach bar. There’s sand on the ground, a bar with plenty of drink options and sunbeds to relax anytime. The actual swimming pool is 2.1m deep and only for swimmers.

Since the capacity of the Badeschiff is limited, it’s best to buy a ticket online. As of 2021, time-slots of two hours are available for purchase for €6.50. The Badeschiff can be found on the river Spree in the East of Berlin, in front of Arena Berlin. The closest S-Bahn stop is Treptower Park.

Entry submitted by Veronika from Travel Geekery .

Wander Hackesche Höfe

Since much of Berlin was rebuilt after WWII, you’ll see a lot of 1960s and 70’s ‘modern’ architecture with a sprinkling of some older styles. What you don’t expect is an Art Nouveau complex but that’s exactly what you get with Hackesche Höfe. This hidden gem in Berlin is located next to the Hackescher Market in Mitte district, featuring eight central interconnected courtyards. This style of architecture dates back to the 18th century when it marked significant expansion in Berlin. Although the structure itself was fairly traditional for the area, it was designed with a modern art deco facade that’s rare in Berlin. Luckily, the damage during the war was minor and was it was restored in the late 1990. Hackesche Höfe is now a vibrant community home to an eclectic mix of cafes, shops, apartments, businesses, cultural institutions and a cinema. You’re free to wander the area at no cost. Entry submitted by Sam from My Flying Leap .

Hidden courtyards

In addition to Hackesche Höfe, there are several hidden backyards in Berlin sprinkled with quirky street art, unusual architecture and niche museums. Discovering them is a fantastic way to get off the beaten track in Berlin, soaking up the atmosphere of the city and leaving other tourists far behind. Since they’re hidden by nature, it’s a good idea to take a small group backyards tour with a Berlin guide .

Trabi Safari

Another unusual way to experience Berlin is by going on a Trabi safari. The Trabant, affectionately known as the Trabi, was the car of the former DDR (East Germany). These vehicles were highly coveted with a waiting period of up to 15 years, and while they weren’t known for their reliability, there is a sense of nostalgia about them. 

Today, tour operators allow you to relive the magic of these one-of-a-kind vehicles. The excursions are typically safari-style where you have a lead guide and driver, and everyone follows behind in their own Trabant. You get a quick driving lesson at the start of the tour as this is a rather unusual car. Over the course of the Trabi safari, you get to see some of Berlin’s top tourist attractions . At the end of the excursion, you receive a Trabant driver’s license as a souvenir. Entry submitted by Audrey from That Backpacker.

Zauberkönig Magic Store

One of the best places to shop for Berlin souvenirs is Zauberkönig on Hermanstrasse in Neukölln. Opened in 1884, this magic shop has been in business for over 130 years. If you’re looking for unusual things to do in Berlin, prepare to spend some time here perusing their trinkets, tricks and costumes to rent. This shop belongs on Diagon Alley as much as it does in Neukölln! Entry submitted by Stephanie from History Fangirl.

Berlin hidden gems – nightlife

Discos inside phone booths.

Berlin is famous for its glitzy mega clubs but did you know there are some tiny discos hidden away in converted phone booths? They’re decked out with strobe lights, fog machines, disco mirror balls and your choice of music. They also have cameras in case you want to record your three-minute dance party. Visit Club Katerblau (open at night) and Raw Gelande (open day and night). These hidden gems in Berlin are easy to operate: insert €2 and pick a song. The doors will open and the party starts. You can pay an extra €2 for a photo strip or a video recording of the whole thing. Entry submitted by Henry from This Life of Travel .

Golden Gate nightclub

If you get rejected from Berlin’s most famous club, the Berghain, take a trip to this nightclub tucked away under Jannowitzbrücke station bridge. Follow Google Maps to find the entrance. Be prepared for a true underground Berlin experience in this tiny, dark club. The lineup changes every night with up-and-coming Berlin artists playing from Friday night to Monday morning. Don’t come overdressed or arrive before 3am! The club is separated into a dancing and chill area. You’re guaranteed to strike a conversation which makes this club a good place if  you are travelling solo and to get out of your comfort zone . Entry submitted by Lucile HR.

Quirky museums in Berlin

The david hasselhoff museum.

Perhaps the most unusual Berlin hidden gem is the David Hasselhoff Museum in a tiny 2×1 metre corner of The Circus Hostel. It’s jam-packed with memorabilia about this actor/singer popular in Berlin.  On 31 December 1989, Hasselhoff performed a concert at the site of the Berlin wall, singing his iconic Looking For Freedom to Berliners celebrating German reunification. You can learn more about this story through the memorabilia at the museum and read about the movement to create a David Hasselhoff Straße (Street). David Hasselhoff often returns to Berlin; sometimes he visits the museum. He also performs a few concerts in the city. In 2019, he held a ‘30 years of freedom’ concert to mark the anniversary of the fall of the Berlin Wall. When you’ve finished at the museum, the bar upstairs serves steins and pretzels! Entry submitted by Claire from Claire’s Footsteps .

Ramones Museum

Fans of the American punk rock band, The Ramones, will be thrilled to know that the first and only museum dedicated entirely to the band is located in Berlin. The bassist, Dee Dee Ramone, grew up in Berlin and, if you listen closely, you’ll hear references to Berlin in a number of their songs. Inside the museum, you’ll find more than 1,000 examples of Ramones memorabilia. Concerts are occasionally held here, and C.J. Ramone even performed once. The museum’s plant-based cafe will please vegan travellers visiting Berlin. Come for breakfast and choose from dishes named after Ramones songs. The ‘I Wanna Live’ includes vegan cheese, bacon, marmalade, fruits and hand-baked bread from Kreuzberg. Yum! Entry submitted by Wendy from The Nomadic Vegan.

Urban Nation – quirky Berlin street art museum

If you want to see some of the best street art in the world, make sure you check out Urban Nation . This street art and graffiti museum in the most bombed city in Europe is free to visit. Browse impressive installations from renowned artists like Banksy and Shepard Fairy. It’s no surprise to find such a quirky museum in Berlin. Graffiti and street art played an important role in shaping the identity of the city, which was named a UNESCO City of Design in 2006. The facade often changes at Urban Nation and the pieces are updated regularly. The street art museum is open from Tuesday to Sunday, 10am to 6pm. The easiest way to get there is by taking the subway to the station Nollendorfplatz. Entry submitted by Carine and Derek from We Did It Our Way.

Visit LGBT+ Schwules Museum

Another unusual thing to do in Berlin is explore the chronicles of LGBT+ history, culture, oppression and rights, both in Germany and internationally. Since the mid-60s, the LGBT+ rights movement has gained traction thanks to large efforts originating in major cities throughout Europe and North America. Germany has made many contributions to the effort and it is known for being a tolerant country offering LGBT+ people many rights and protections.  However, this hasn’t always been the case. The Holocaust carries a variety of horror stories specific to the treatment of LGBT+ people. These stories are told in the various displays at The Schwules Museum , open in the afternoons (closed Tuesdays). Admission costs €9. Entry submitted by Austin from Two Bad Tourists.

Take a LGBT+ tour in Berlin .

Stay in a quirky Berlin hotel

For such a quirky city, there are of course plenty of unique and unusual places to stay in Berlin. These include: Huttenpalast: This caravan hotel in Kreuzberg is a berlin hidden gem in its own right. The double bed in the caravan was super comfortable, plus I had an ‘outside’ seating area to relax in. Since there are only a handful of caravans in the large complex, each seating area is tucked away for privacy. Check availability for €77pn .

Michelberger: This hip hotel inside a refurbished warehouse is totally ‘Berlin’. With high ceilings, flea market-style decor and stacks of books as high as the ceiling, it’s the perfect mix of quirky and light & bright. There’s also a vegan cafe onsite and its perfectly located in busy Friedrichshain. Check availability for €107pn . Boat hotels in Berlin: Bored of staying on land? Opt for a quirky houseboat located inside a refurbished cabin floating on the Spree. Many have double rooms, living rooms, kitchens and bathrooms. Book Eastern & Western Comfort Boathotel or Spreeapartment MARA .

I hope you enjoyed these alternative things to do in Berlin

Check out my other Europe posts:

• The 30 best German dishes to try
• A complete guide to Munich
• Nuremberg travel guide
• Guide to visiting Nuremberg Castle
• 3 day Vienna itinerary
• 3 day Copenhagen itinerary
• How to spend 3 days in Budapest
• What to eat & drink in Prague

See you next time for more adventures,

Ps. Liked these hidden gems in Berlin? Pin it for later!

TRUSTED RESOURCES FOR VISITING GERMANY Getting around by air – I use Skyscanner to find the best-value flights, using the ‘search by month’ tool to find the cheapest dates. You can also use the ‘to anywhere’ feature if you’re flexible on where you’re going. Driving in Europe – use Rentalcars.com to compare car rentals in European countries (and all around the world). For trains , I use RailEurope . The search feature allows you to compare prices, and they show live departure times on the website. For buses , I use FlixBus . Find journeys between European countries from €1. Use Omio to compare trains and buses in one search. It’s so handy! For hotels and self-catering apartments, I use Booking.com . You can filter by review score and price to find the best-rated budget places. For hostels, I use Hostelworld.com . To save money on accommodation, I use Trusted Housesitters , a website that connects homeowners going away and travellers who can sit their homes & pets. Browse tours and activities on GetYourGuide . Need travel insurance ? I use True Traveller (for UK & Europe residents) since it’s some of the most affordable insurance out there but still covers everything you’d need including various activities, valuables and pre-existing conditions. Unlike some companies, they insure you if you’re already travelling / don’t yet have your flight home booked. Get a quote . For travel insurance for other nationalities, I recommend Hey Mundo and for long-term digital nomad travellers, I suggest Safety Wing . Check out my resources page for more travel discounts and budget tips from my 10+ years on the road!

Rose is a solo traveller from the UK who has been on the road since 2015. She wants to show other women that solo travel isn't scary and doesn't have to be expensive! Rose has lived in Mexico, Canada and all over Asia, seeking out food, bubble tea and street art wherever she goes!

4 thoughts on “ Berlin Hidden Gems: 25 Unusual Things To Do In Berlin ”

Great post and collection of quirky places to see in Berlin! Thanks Rose! Even for me as a German who have visited Berlin more than a dozen times there a some new things. I’ll definitely check out the Stand by me tree, the Badeschiff and the Teufelsberg next time – I haven’t heard of them before!

Thanks for reading, Chris. Yes, let me know how you get on! I’m craving another trip too now 🙂

I like summer better but all your pictures and the descriptions you wrote made me want to go for a winter vacation.

I liked summer best too!

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Alternative Things to Do in Berlin: Subculture, Squats, and Street Art

Upon visiting a city, what’s the first thing you do?

Go the most popular tourist spots?

Or see the sights less seen?

We’re insatiably curious about the streets and buildings that comprise cities. Our slow travel mode of operation means engaging with how people live in a city – both past and present.

To hear more about our slow travel mindset and philosophy, check out this episode of The Alternative Travelers Podcast:

Last but not least, if you’re not a member of TrustedHousesitters and want to join, click here to sign up with a 10% discount just for our readers .

And now, onto the Trusted house sitters review!

Alternative Things to Do in Berlin:

In February, we spent a week house sitting  in alternative Berlin spending much of our time wandering around and eating all the delicious food .  Berlin was so good to us that we came back again for another house sit that following August! It’s a great city for the alternative traveler.

Taking walking tours is a great way to learn about the unique history of each place we visit, because what is a place without its historical, cultural, and contemporary context? During our visit, we sought out the best alternative things to do in Berlin, learning about the many subcultures, squats, and street art.

So take a stroll with us through the intriguing streets of unusual Berlin and its lesser-known history.

SQUATS IN BERLIN

Squatting has happened all over the world for hundreds of years, but Berlin has a particularly rich history that continues in full force to this day. Berlin’s current squats aren’t tucked away and coexist proudly next door to apartment buildings throughout the city.

The Rauchhaus, allegedly the oldest continually occupied squat in Europe, has been in place the 1970s. The historic building used to be a hospital that the occupying American forces tried to demolish to create a highway. Berliners took to the streets and protested the hell out of the situation until the city bought the land and gifted it to the city. Today it is a cultural center with the squat occupying the building and yard next door.  Many squats offer homemade meals for cheap to any and everyone – definitely one of the most non-touristy things in Berlin you can do.

The Treehouse on the Wall

Our favorite squatter story comes from a Turkish man named Osman Kalin who set up shop just down the road from the Rauchhaus when there were still two Berlins. The vacant lot was technically under the jurisdiction of the East German authorities, yet fell on the Western side of the wall because of cost-saving measures to build the wall in a straight line.

Osman saw an opportunity and started to grow a small garden on the land, eventually also building a makeshift treehouse entirely from found materials. The nearby church allowed him to use their water without charge to grow his garden. He quickly became a beloved figure in the neighborhood and indeed all of Berlin. After the fall of the wall, authorities wanted to demolish Osman’s treehouse to build a road, yet locals and the nearby church rallied behind him. Osman, now in his nineties, and his family live in a nearby apartment building. Apparently, he often sits outside in the treehouse garden, happily waving and smiling at passing admirers.

If you’d like to learn more about squats in Berlin, we highly recommend joining a tour with a knowledgeable guide that is respectful of these communities. We did the Alternative Berlin Experience , which was fantastic and affordable – we learned so much about past and present Berlin squats, stopping outside several on the way (yet staying a respectful distance). There are several other tours that cover squats in Berlin, click the links below to learn more and book:

BERLIN STREET ART

Berlin is often called the “Street Art Mecca” of the world.  Artists come from around the world to paint the town with their creativity, and you can see pieces from world-famous artists from the U.S., Brazil, the U.K., Poland, Spain, Denmark, and of course Germany, as well as many other countries. Berlin as a city is all about expressing yourself, being unique, and showcasing your artwork – whatever form that may take.  We were surprised and impressed to learn about many alternative kinds of street art, like interactive and movable pieces, metal sculptures, paste-ups, and other tactile forms of art.

Here are some of the hot spots for Berlin street art:

Dircksenstrasse Street Art

Dircksenstrasse is a road in Mitte that is absolutely covered in a variety of street art. Here we’ll share just a few of our favorite pieces, but make sure to visit this street yourself and have a look!

Little Lucy is a reference to a propaganda Czech cartoon from the 80s. In each Lucy piece, she is killing the cat she owned in the cartoon in a different manner. The Little Lucy series was created by Spanish-born and now Berlin-based artist El Bocho. Read more about him and his work here .

SOBR is the French photographer behind the It’s Time to Dance Project , which features paste-ups of girls he has photographed and (after asking permission) made into fun street art. He wanted to show women in their own element, having fun and not posed specifically for a photo. These pieces can be found not only in Berlin but also in Paris, London, and Marseille.

The metal piece below is by Danish artist Tejn and is part of his series on escapism. The figure is chained to the wall and apparently there used to be a hatchet just out of the sculpture’s reach – until someone stole it. Our guide told us that it was unusual that the entire piece still existed because usually, large metal pieces are stolen to be sold as scrap metal. Apparently, Tejn doesn’t get mad about this vandalism of his work, he sees it as part of the process and interaction of people with his artwork. Very Zen, Tejn.

Berlin is covered with street art no matter where you look, but you can get concentrated doses in many spots, including:

Dead Chicken Alley

This tucked away alley is easy to miss if you don’t know to look for it. One of the last remnants of what East Berlin used to look like before the wall fell. Shortly after, artists moved into the abundance of abandoned apartments and East Berlin quickly became an artists’ haven. The Dead Chicken group was one of these artist collectives and their space has been preserved to this day.

One side of the alley is reserved for professional artists who can come and paint murals while the other side is a free side, meaning it is open to anyone (including visitors!) to leave their mark.

Some of our favorites from the ‘pro side’ included:

There’s a lot going on today in the alley, with a small museum dedicated to a man who created a workshop to employ blind Jewish people during WWII, a very smokey bar, and an underground show of robotic monsters and probably one of the most unique things to do in Berlin.

We learned about all of the murals and street art above on the alternative tour of Berlin  that we mentioned above. However, there are many dedicated street art tours of Berlin as it’s such a fascinating side and important part of the city. Here are a few to check out, including one that just focuses on street art in Kreuzberg:

Make sure to check out the dedicated website Street Art Berlin for the latest news in the scene. Throughout our visit, we continued to explore street art and subcultures on our own as we sought out unusual things to do in Berlin. Here are some of our favorite spots:

RAW Gelande

An old railway complex turned subculture compound, this spot was one of our favorites in quirky Berlin. And this is even considering the fact that it’s mostly outdoors and we froze our asses off exploring it.

RAW Gelande is a great example of Berlin’s culture of reuse and repurpose. The complex is home to a climbing gym (with an outdoor climbing wall on the outside of an old bunker!), an indoor skate park, famous clubs, bars, food trucks, and of course, lots of street art. We even got to meet the Momo Master himself (read the full story in our Berlin Vegan Guide ).

Berlin Graphic Days , a graphic design pop up market that happens once a year, luckily was taking place right as we arrived. Artists from all over Europe come to showcase their wares – all of it was incredible. Though we don’t want to accumulate stuff in our temporary home, most artists had little postcards for sale for a euro or two. We always try to support local artists and were happy to buy a bunch to adorn our apartment’s walls back in Madrid.

Berlin Wall Art – The East Side Gallery

This one is hardly an underground or unknown spot as the East Side Gallery is the most famous example of street art in Berlin. The East Side Gallery is a 1.3 km long preserved section of the Berlin Wall painted with poignant murals of street artists from around the world.

TEMPELHOFER FELD

Possibly the most massive example of site reuse in Berlin is the 300-hectare Tempelhofer Feld. The former airfield is steeped with history and is named after the Knights Templar that inhabited the land in the medieval era. In addition, Tempelhof was the site of the Berlin Airlift of 1948, when the Western powers supplied Berliners with food and other essentials. For more history of the site, The Guardian has a great recent article . Today the airfield is a public park that often has concerts and other events. Don’t miss Tempelhofer Feld – it’s an incredible space.

You cannot go inside Tempelhof Airport itself without a tour. Click to learn more about the tours below.

Tempelhofer Feld in Winter. Note the women with baby strollers, just out for a casual, frigid stroll.

Berlin’s dramatic recent history and the many hands that took part in its reconstruction. The near leveling of the city during WWII and reuse of existing buildings leave the city with a bit of a hodge-podge feel – in an interesting way. The city’s multiculturalism can be felt in the large Turkish neighborhood aka Little Istanbul, in the many languages spoken everywhere, and the abundance of eateries from what feels like every country dotting the streets.

For more cool stuff in Berlin, check out our Vegan Guide to Berlin or travel story A Trumpster in a Nazi Museum .

We thoroughly enjoyed quirky Berlin and can’t wait to explore it more in the future!

Are you a fan of street art – are there any pieces in your city? Would you like to visit Berlin someday? Or maybe there are some non-touristy things to do in Berlin that we missed? Let us know in the comments!

*Editor’s note: This post was originally posted in March 2017 and has since been updated.

Samantha Anthony

Sam is a nomadic writer and photographer that freelances as an editor and proofreader, which may make her insufferable if you make any grammar mistakes in her presence. She has done stints as an archaeologist and tech writer in NYC and an English teacher in Madrid. She enjoys eating and photographing all the vegan food that Veren cooks.

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10 Cool Alternative Things to Do in Berlin

10/05/2016 by Kristin Addis 12 Comments

Berlin is the kid in high school art class who always wears black and manages to look so effortlessly cool, you kind of wonder if you can sit at the same table (but you can because you’re cool too, damnit).

There are so many layers to this city and if you spend any measure of time here, you’ll see why it has drawn artists and creatives in for decades. The city is all about counterculture and the best part is you don’t have to look that far to find it.

When you’re here, typical things like the hop-on-hop-off bus, a visit to the parliament building, a walk along the East Side Gallery, and museum hopping on museum island are what you’re likely to hear about, but that’s not what you came here for, is it? You want the info on the cool stuff to do that tourists don’t typically know about. You want to rock up to the places in torn black jeans, not strappy sandals and a sock tan!

Don’t worry, as a 2-year resident of the city, I’ve got you covered. These are my top 10 best alternative things to do in Berlin for those who like to head off the beaten path:

Klunker Kranich

  A photo posted by Kristin Addis (@bemytravelmuse) on Aug 7, 2016 at 12:23pm PDT

Do you love live music? Do you love playing in the sandbox and sitting in the summer sun while drinking a fairly economical Moscow mule?

This is one of my favorite daytime bars in Berlin because it’s full of random art that changes all the time, and it’s got an incredible sunset view of the city. On a sunny day the decks and tables are usually packed with both locals and tourists out enjoying the views and vibes. While it may not be Berlin’s best-kept secret, it’s definitely one of the chillest ways to spend a lazy afternoon. When the sun is shining, you can often find me there.

To get there, head to the  Neukölln Arcaden , enter at the post entrance, and take the elevator up to the 5th floor. It’ll open to a parking garage. Turn left and walk up the driveway and you’ll start seeing flower pots and cool little sculptures. Entrance is typically €2 and it’s open until 1:30am.

Book awesome places to stay in Berlin here. 

Tempelhofer feld.

How many abandoned airports right in the middle of a city have you visited in your life? Tempelhofer Feld is one of those unique spots that is just so Berlin , and on a nice day, you’ll see locals out BBQing, wind surfing on the tarmac, and even planting veggies in some of the communal garden spaces.

The airport best known for the Berlin airlift when this part of Berlin was under American control during the Cold War. Flights took off constantly to drop food to those in the walled-off Western Berlin. The history is fascinating and if you’re a lover of old abandoned buildings (like me) you’ll dig this.

Enjoying the outside of the airport is free and you can head there any time you wish, but if you want to see the inside of the airport, and you really should, book a cheap tour that allows you to learn about the history, jump behind the check-in counters, and transport yourself back in time.

Book a 2-hour tour here .

Alternative Berlin Street Art Tour

I’m usually not a tour person, but this walking tour really is excellent. The guides are not only sharp and well-versed in street art, they really seem to love it as well. To me it’s like a two-for-one, because it’s a history tour and an art tour combined into one, giving you a unique understanding of where Berlin has come from since it was a divided city.

I recommend this to every friend of mine who visits because it’s a great way to get your bearings of the city, will see the art that’s lesser known than the East Side Gallery , and also an opportunity to meet other travelers. Whether you know nothing about Berlin and street art or already know a fair amount, you’re sure to walk away with some new knowledge.

Book it here (affiliate link. If you book this tour I get a small commission at no extra cost to you).

Teufelsberg

Teufelsberg, which translates to devil’s mountain, is easily one of my favorite parts of this city (well, slightly outside the city, to be exact). It’s built on top of a hill that used to be an under-construction Nazi military-technical college and rubble from the former east.

It was once a spy base for American soldiers during the cold war, as evidenced by the randomes, which are the huge, bubble-like listening domes pictured above. Though in tatters now, the spy base is still standing and is covered in street art. Some of the biggest names, like Jimmy C, have creations there. The whole thing is like some kind of weird, abandoned wonderland.

Unfortunately you can’t just walk up and explore as it’s now privately owned and there’s an entrance fee. Book a half-day tour here which includes transport and a guide. It’s worth it.

Did you ever expect to find an authentic, street food-style Thai market in Berlin? I’ve got to tell you, it’s a seriously strange thing to speak a mixture of German and Thai to someone when ordering food, but once you get over the initial confusion of stepping into a mini Chiang Mai your taste buds will thank you.

Outside of Thailand , this is the most authentic Thai food I’ve ever had. Everything about it is just like the real thing, except for the prices of course. Most dishes run at €5 so bring some friends and share everything around.

The market takes place over the weekends at Preussenpark when the weather is nice.

YAAM Beach

YAAM is an acronym for Young African Art Market and is a popular beach club in Friedrichshain, near the East Side Gallery and other tourist favorites. Beach clubs like this are popular throughout Germany, and apart from sand, I can’t really tell you what makes it a beach club. The idea is that people of all ages and any ethnic background can come and hang out there, have a drink, and/or attend one of their many musical events.

There’s a bunch of very cool street art inside of YAAM beach, and for those in this techno-obsessed town who prefer live music, trap, drum n’ bass, hip hop, reggae, and Afro house, this is an awesome alternative place to come dance your heart out. Check out their calendar of events for yoga and musical acts.

Sunset on the canal

The canal that runs through Kreuzberg is a favorite for locals and visitors during the sunset hours. Buy a beer from the local späti (a small convenience store that sells drinks, candy, and the like) and take it over to the banks, especially in the summer months, and you’ll find that you’re in good company.

My favorite spot is at Admiralbrücke . Keep an eye open for the guy who peddles samosas, the swans, and the locals in blow up rafts selling beer.

On a hot day during the summer in Berlin, this floating swimming pool on the river Spree is the place to be. Sure, it’s known by tourists and has a €5 price tag, but if you’re looking to meet cool people at the closest thing to a beach party that you’ll find in landlocked Berlin, it’s a great spot.

What many might not know is that it’s not only open during the summertime. Badeschiff is open during the winter, too, offering saunas and heated pools.

Urban Spree

If you can’t get enough street art (and really, who can?), this spot next to the Warschauer str S-bahn station is full of it. Plus, there’s a lot going on there like musical events, nightclubs, a Sunday flea market, a rock climbing wall, movie nights, one of the biggest indoor halfpipes in Europe, and outdoor bars when the weather is nice.

It’s one of my favorite spots for street art gazing and hanging out. Just be sure to keep an eye on your belongings, as pickpockets have a field day there (and that goes for all of Berlin).

Bite club is a summertime street food party that takes place every third Friday at Arena Berlin, which isn’t too far from the Badeschiff if you feel like combining noms and pool time.

If you’re here during the colder months and still want to find some great street food, check out the Markthalle Neun in Kreuzberg on Thursdays. It’s super popular, so prepare for crowds.

Those are a few of my favorites in my beloved Berlin, a city I’ve been seriously slacking on writing about, apart from telling you why I moved here forever ago and what I love about the gritty underbelly of the city.

Feel free to share some of your favorite spots in the comments, and let me know if you end up checking any of these out and enjoying your time here!

About Kristin Addis

Kristin Addis is the founder and CEO of Be My Travel Muse, a resource for female travelers all around the world since 2012. She's traveled solo to over 65 countries and has brought over 150 women on her all-female adventure tours from Botswana to the Alaskan tundra.

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Rachel says

10/05/2016 at 9:13 am

Reading this made me want to go to Berlin RIGHT NOW! I’ve been to Germany probably 5 or 6 times, but never Berlin. It’s high on the list though. I hear NYE is a crazy party, have you been in town for New years?

Kristin says

10/06/2016 at 9:30 am

I’ve been there for the past 2 NYEs and the whole city explodes with fireworks. You have to be careful because they are shooting off in the street and from every rooftop but it’s gorgeous, especially if you are on a rooftop balcony.

10/05/2016 at 1:28 pm

Thanks for the suggestions! Berlin is indeed a very vibrant city, more and more people love it to the point housing prices are soaring now.

10/06/2016 at 9:29 am

That’s inevitable in the capital city of one of the world’s strongest economies.

10/12/2016 at 12:30 pm

The overall environment is certaintly contributing, including very affordable interest rates, but Berlin has long been missing its share of the German economic growth due to lack of financial sector, lower household purchasing power and lesser international appeal as investment hub as compared to cities like Munich, Frankfurt or Stuttgart. That precise affordability allowed it to become home to many successful start ups, innovative projects and re-design of new areas. I think this new financial influx and projects combined with its popular side that you very well describe here give it that special charm =)

10/06/2016 at 9:14 am

I love Thai Park – it’s one of the most awesome places in Berlin. The atmosphere is amazing and the food really good!

And if you’re a street food enthusiast I recommend (during summer time) Kulturbrauerei and their great food truck yard.

10/06/2016 at 10:28 pm

Would you believe that I lived in Germany for 4 years, and then visited back last winter, and yet have never set foot in Berlin aside from a 20 minute train transfer?!?! I’m long overdue, I need to get myself to Berlin! I’ll make sure to do as many of these ideas as I can when I finally get there, they all look just up my alley.

10/07/2016 at 11:06 am

Whaaaaaat? Yes you do need to go back! Where were you living?

10/07/2016 at 4:24 pm

Ah I wish I could have read this before I came last week! Great list that definitely wasn’t in my guidebook – I wish I’d done a tour!

Dave Briggs says

10/11/2016 at 3:33 am

Amazing list of alternative things to do in Berlin. Only someone who had actually live there will know all of these places. Teufelsberg definitely caught my eyes especially as well as those unusual art places.

JamesTaylor says

04/02/2017 at 12:37 pm

Greetings and salutations! Thanks for keeping up to date through the newsletter…keep the great info coming! Thanks a bunch! James Zate-

04/10/2017 at 11:15 am

I thought I had been to Berlin, but after this list, I guess probably not yet. Didn’t know there were such amazing abandoned places and street art there, I need a trip back! Thanks for that awesome list, bookmarking it 🙂

• 10 Unusual Things To Do...

Unusual Things To Do in Berlin

There’s no shortage of unusual, quirky things to do in Berlin. Widely regarded as one of the world’s most creative and vibrant cities, nowhere else does offbeat quite like the German capital.

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Once the Brandenburg Gate and Checkpoint Charlie are ticked off your list, Berlin offers up a host of unexpected (and, at times, downright bizarre) activities: swimming to a techno soundtrack, cinema-inspired sports and an insect-based cooking course.

Get below Berlin’s surface with a subterranean tour

When you think about Berlin’s underground scene, chances are that World War II air raid shelters and Cold War nuclear bunkers aren’t the first things that come to mind. Berliner Unterwelten (Subterranean Berlin) is a museum that offers a unique perspective on Berlin’s history from its base in a former air raid bunker at the Gesundbrunnen train station. Guided tours led by researchers take visitors through the vast network of secret tunnels built by the Nazis, with a number of different themed tours available. These include the Dark Worlds Tour, which centres on life during wartime for the average citizen of Berlin; and the Under the Berlin Wall Tour, focusing on attempted escapes via tunnels underneath the Berlin Wall .

Spend a Sunday at Berlin’s Thai Park

Every other day of the week, it’s Preußen Park (Prussian Park), but on summer Sundays this verdant stretch in the off-the-hipster-radar suburb of Wilmersdorf is transformed into Thai Park – a little taste of Bangkok right in Berlin’s backyard. From under a flurry of colourful umbrellas, the mostly Thai vendors (though you’ll find Vietnamese, Chinese, Filipino and Laotian, too) serve up mouthwatering Asian street food cooked on the spot, from spicy noodle soups to fluffy banana fritters – all at prices more affordable than packing your own picnic.

Get your techno fix while drifting in a thermal pool

Berlin’s music scene is legendary, even if its dance-till-dawn attitude isn’t for everyone. Rather more relaxing than queuing for hours to get turned away from the notorious Berghain , futuristic Liquidrom combines techno music with a luxurious spa experience: float off on a pool noodle with the strains of live electronic music infusing the very waters enveloping you. With sauna, massage treatments and a bar also on offer, an immersive evening at Liquidrom is designed to leave you blissed out.

Check out a game of Jugger at a disused airport

While Tempelhofer Feld – a former airport turned public park in 2010 – is one of Berlin’s most popular, if peculiar, drawcards, what few of its visitors may realise is that it’s one of the world’s first official Jugger training areas, too. The sport, inspired by the 1989 cult post-apocalypse movie The Salute of the Jugger , looks a little like rugby-meets-fencing, and its adherents claim it’s a blast. If you’re feeling brave, the Jugger eV league offers free weekly training sessions – or simply gawk from the sidelines.

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Take an insect cooking course

Already considered one of the most vegan-friendly cities globally , Berlin is now embracing a new culinary wave – or at least tentatively sampling it… Insects have been staples on the menus of numerous non-Western cultures and now, as we search for more sustainable ways of living, organisations like Berlin-based MikroKosmos are helping people remove the ‘creepy’ from their creepy crawly food experiences. Find their stall at Markthalle Neun every second Thursday or, better yet, take part in one of their cooking courses – you can email them for more information.

Play black-light mini golf in Görlitzer Park

Görlitzer Park ( known as ‘Görli’ to the locals ) is another of Berlin’s best-loved parks and it has a dark secret – well, a glow-in-the-dark one, to be exact. Spread across five rooms in the basement of the park café is an 18-hole, trippy black-light miniature golf course, complete with neon renderings of Berlin’s most famous landmarks. Go for birdie with the Berlin bear looming over you, or hit a hole-in-one at the suddenly psychedelic Brandenburger Tor. You can also try your hand – or backhand – at black-light table tennis.

Visit the most awe-inspiring Soviet War memorial outside of Russia

Treptower Park is more than a lush location for a bike ride, it’s home to an imposing Soviet War memorial . Designed by Soviet architect Yakov Belopolsky, it honours the Soviet soldiers who fell in the Battle of Berlin in 1945. Look out for sculptor Yevgeny Vuchetich’s 12-metre (39ft) statue of a soldier holding a rescued child in one hand and a sword in the other. Some say it commemorates the deeds of a Soviet soldier who braved heavy gunfire to save a German child; others say the child represents Germany itself, liberated from Hitler by the USSR.

Take your tea Russian-style at the Tajikistan Tearoom

In a city as youthful and dynamic as Berlin, there’s a lot to be said for places where tradition is still revered. The Tajikistan Tearoom, a gift to Germany from the Soviets in 1974, serves it up by the steaming cupful. The tearoom was originally built as the Tajikistan pavilion for a trade fair in Leipzig during the 1970s, after which the pavilion was donated by the Soviet Republic of Tajikistan to their East German hosts. From its ornate sandalwood pillars and the epic murals playing out over vibrant walls to its Russian teatime delicacies, Central Asian and Russian cultures mix to create something magical in this space. As such, a hidden gem though it might be, advance reservations are still encouraged.

Enjoy a free Tuesday lunch concert at the Berliner Philharmonie

There’s no such thing as a free lunch, but there is such a thing as a free lunchtime concert. Just across the road from Tiergarten , the Berliner Philharmonie concert hall puts on world-class performances to anyone who has a lunch break to spare, every Tuesday afternoon in the main foyer of the Kammermusiksaal. Whether you’re taking a breather during a business trip or relaxing on vacation, swap out going for another döner for some culture instead.

This article is an updated version of a story created by Alice Dundon .

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Discover the best of berlin's unique and unusual attractions by area.

A few suggestions to get you started, or use the map or links below...

A public transport cruise

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Party in the world's smallest disco

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Mitte | Tiergarten | Charlottenburg | Wilmersdorf | Schöneberg | Neukölln | Friedrichshain | Kreuzberg | Prenzlauer Berg | Pankow | Spandau | Wedding | Moabit | Marzahn-Hellersdorf | Zehlendorf | Reinickendorf

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Our alternative travel guide to Berlin by district: quirky sights, hidden attractions, must-see highlights and secret spots.

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The Ultimate Guide to Berlin Alternative Walking Tours

• 2024-03-07 2024-03-07

If you are tired of the traditional tourist attractions and want to explore Berlin’s alternative culture, a walking tour is an excellent option. Berlin is known for its vibrant art scene, rich history, and diverse neighborhoods. In this guide, we will introduce you to the best alternative walking tours in Berlin, covering unique experiences that will take you off the beaten path.

Why Choose an Alternative Walking Tour?

While traditional sightseeing tours in Berlin focus on famous landmarks like the Brandenburg Gate and Berlin Wall, alternative walking tours offer a different perspective. They provide an opportunity to explore lesser-known neighborhoods, learn about street art, visit alternative cultural spaces, and delve into Berlin’s subcultures. By choosing an alternative walking tour, you can discover the hidden gems and immerse yourself in the local alternative scene.

Top Berlin Alternative Walking Tours

1. the east side gallery and street art tour.

The East Side Gallery is a must-see attraction in Berlin. This tour takes you beyond the renowned Berlin Wall paintings and explores the vibrant street art scene in the city. You’ll wander through neighborhoods like Kreuzberg and Friedrichshain, where colorful murals and graffiti cover the walls. Professional guides will share stories about the artists and their messages, giving you insight into the local art scene.

2. Neighborhood X: Exploring Kreuzberg

Kreuzberg is known for its alternative culture, diverse community, and lively nightlife. This walking tour allows you to immerse yourself in the unique atmosphere of Kreuzberg’s streets. You’ll visit local markets, discover hidden shops and art galleries, and enjoy street food from around the world. The guide will also share stories of the neighborhood’s history and its role in Berlin’s cultural development.

3. The Underground and Squatting Tour

This tour takes you into Berlin’s underground scenes and squatting communities. You’ll learn about the city’s history of squatting and alternative living spaces. The tour provides insights into the values and ideologies that have shaped Berlin’s alternative culture. You’ll also have the chance to visit squatted buildings and hear stories from residents.

Tips for a Memorable Alternative Walking Tour

• Wear comfortable shoes as you’ll be walking for several hours.
• Bring a bottle of water and snacks to keep yourself hydrated and energized.
• Don’t forget your camera to capture the vibrant street art and unique sights.
• Ask questions and interact with your guide. They have valuable insights and stories to share.
• Stay open-minded and be respectful of the neighborhoods you visit.

Exploring Berlin through alternative walking tours is an excellent way to discover the city’s hidden treasures and immerse yourself in its vibrant culture. Whether you are interested in its street art, alternative communities, or diverse neighborhoods, there is a tour to cater to your interests. So put on your walking shoes, join a tour, and embark on a unique adventure through the alternative side of Berlin!

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Alternative Berlin

Big beautiful churches, nice Baroque palaces, grand theatre buildings, and many other places… that you will NOT see on this tour! 😉 Why? Because Berlin is way more than that. Berlin is a European capital of alternative lifestyle and street art! So on this tour, you will explore very different aspects of the German capital. You will be taken to various corners and nooks where most tourist never go.

After this 3-hour tour, you will discover a new city of Berlin. You will know why it is called a “cultural melting pot”. You will learn about the impact of Berlin’s music scene. Furthermore, you will be able to decipher some hidden messages of different graffiti and murals around the city. You will witness squat life very close to the centre of Berlin.

Our Alternative Berlin tour will allow you to feel the true vibe of Berlin!

Attention! A daily transport ticket (AB zone) is needed for this tour!

Highlights:

• Haus Schwarzenberg
• Treehouse at the Wall
• ⁠Kreuzberg area
• YAAM (Young African Arts Market)

The last point: YAAM at Ostbahnhof

Please be informed that exact tour can vary, depending on the guide.

Laura is das beste!

Laura’s tour offered a unique perspective on street art, exploring its social impact. Her enthusiasm made it a great experience.

Love ❤️ Laure wonderful tour

Great interesting tour

JR’s the BEST

We really loved our tour with JR. It was Informative, funny and though provoking.

Great information!

We had nice time with Laura who was delightfully serious about the leading theme (gentrification in street art and squatting). I felt really lucky to get Laura as our guide to be able to avoid superficial bullshit. It’s important to educate possibly-ignorant tourists 🙂 Many thanks Laura!

The tour was just ok, really meh actually. We really didn’t get to see much of the ”alternative Berlin” or street art for that matter, some ruined street art and a few grafitti and we got directions to go see some more by ourselves. Got dropped off on a bridge and told to see stuff by ourselves. So yeah, underwhelming! JR should really put in some more effort!

This tour is also available as a Private Tour.

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ALTERNATIVE BERLIN TOUR

• This guided tour is offered exclusively as a Private Tour.
• You choose the day and start time you prefer.
• The duration of the tour is 3,5 hours.
• There is no minimum number of participants, if the group is very numerous there will be a second guide to guarantee the quality of service.
• The meeting point with the guide can be your hotel or another place that you prefer.
• The tour is normally done on foot and by public transport. If you wish to take a tour by bicycle or bus with a private driver, please request this in the corresponding form.
• The cost of the tour depends on your preferences and the size of the group. Request a quote.

THIS TOUR INTERESTS YOU IF…

• You are fascinated by urban art in its various expressions.
• You want to get away from the usual tourist routes and get a taste of authentic and alternative Berlin with an English-speaking guide who has been going for years to the places you will learn about.
• You want to understand how and why Berlin has become one of the world capitals of underground culture.
• You are curious to learn about the most alternative streets and districts of Berlin on a guided tour in mother-tongue English.

WHAT WE WILL SEE

• Most famous murals
• Haus Schwarzenberg
• Districts of Kreuzberg, Friedrichshain, and Mitte
• Urban Nation – Street Art Museum
• Schlesisches Tor

DETAILED ROUTE

Berlin has always been one of the most dynamic cities in the world and it has urban art, underground culture, and a continuous desire for change right in its DNA.

Since the 1970s, the German capital has been fertile ground for every kind of artistic experimentation, from music to visual art. During the long period of the Cold War, West Berlin, thanks to its special status, became the favorite destination for punks, hippies, and artists from all over the world: these were the years of David Bowie, Iggy Pop, the progressive emergence of Techno music, and illegal clubs.

After the fall of the Wall, however, East Berlin stole the scene. The German Democratic Republic disappeared, leaving a huge political void and, suddenly, all the previous state-controlled buildings no longer had owners. The old districts of East Berlin become the ideal refuge for alternative people from all over the world, attracted by the possibility of residing at no cost in a place where nothing is forbidden.

Our Alternative Berlin tour in English will lead you along the path of the most authentic and lively Berlin, starting from our meeting point in Potsdamer Platz. The first stop of the tour will be the Urban Nation Museum and its colorful surroundings; in the halls of the world’s first museum for street art and in front of the facades full of large murals of the adjoining buildings, we will discover the history of the new “wall canvasses” of Berlin and the internationally renowned artists involved in the project.

Urban art not only represented the driving culture in the Berlin of the early Nineties, but it modified and enriched the streets, with real estate speculators always attentive to city fashions. Urban gentrification, in fact, saw the German capital establish itself as one of the cities with the highest price increases in the world.

Crossing the Kreuzberg district, where the challenge of integration between peoples gives life to a peculiar and very interesting cultural and gastronomic mix, and looking up from the bistro windows, you will be left speechless by some of the most famous murals in the world, which recount Berlin’s past and its future through the eyes of artists such as Ash, Blu, and Os Gemeos.

Heading towards the district of Friedrichshain, we will discover the RAW Tempel, an immense train repair workshop converted into a space for sports, creativity, and alternative entertainment. We will pause in this unique place, which would be forbidden elsewhere, but in Berlin remains deliberately open to everyone and has established itself as one of the most dynamic and lively cultural centers of the city.

Walking through the streets of the neighborhood we will observe the great changes of recent years, amongst the residents that animate the city and the stories of contemporary Berlin.

Finally, we will reach the neighborhood of Mitte, the most modern and pulsating heart of Berlin, to walk along what is a veritable open-air urban art gallery and visit the most famous courtyard of the city, the Haus Schwarzenberg or Courtyard of Wonders, admiring the mix of works that still color it today and the history that inspired them.

Accompanied by an English-speaking guide who has lived here and visited these places for years, the most fascinating, authentic, and alternative Berlin will have no more secrets for you!

WHERE IS THE MEETING POINT LOCATED?

The guide will pick you up at your hotel or in another place of your choice.

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION

• You can extend the duration of the guided tour, personalize the tour or take a longer break in a restaurant that we will recommend based on your gastronomic preferences.
• We will be happy to suggest activities for your stay in Berlin, where and what to eat, and which museums or neighborhoods to visit. We are available to advise you as best as possible based on your needs.

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The Growth in Demand for Alternative Stays in India

Peden Doma Bhutia , Skift

July 16th, 2024 at 7:49 AM EDT

India has a significant deficit of hotels and the vacation-rental market in the country is filling up this gap while catering to the growing interest in off-the-beaten-path destinations.

Peden Doma Bhutia

Skift India Travel Podcast

Skift Asia Editor Peden Doma Bhutia is joined by business leaders, and experts from throughout the industry and Skift’s newsroom, to explore the challenges, opportunities, and trends shaping the Indian travel industry.

The vacation rentals market represents a relatively small segment of India’s hospitality industry. However, despite its small size, the short-term rental market has significant potential. Catch Asia Editor Peden Doma Bhutia in conversation with Skift Research’s Varsha Arora as they discuss what’s driving the growth of this sector in India, in the latest episode of the Skift India Travel Podcast, presented by Amadeus.

Market Potential: The short-term rental market in India, though nascent, has significant potential. Skift Research estimates the market could grow to around $3 billion by 2033.

Supply-Demand Dynamics: India has a significant deficit of hotels compared to China. Regulatory challenges make it difficult to open new hotels, contributing to slow growth in hotel supply.

Growth Factors: Under-penetration of the hospitality market. Increasing demand for alternative accommodations due to a shortage of hotel rooms. Conversion of existing villas and bungalows into rental properties as a practical solution.

Involvement of Hospitality Brands: Big brands like Airbnb, StayVista , Saffron Stays, ITC, and Taj are entering the vacation rental market. These brands enhance consumer trust and perception towards vacation rentals.

Changing Travel Preferences: Post-pandemic shift towards authentic, immersive experiences. Millennials and Gen Z, the primary travel cohort, prefer vacation rentals for their flexibility and local flavor.

Family and Multi-Generational Travel: A significant portion of Indian travelers prefer traveling with family, including extended family. Vacation rentals cater well to this need with larger spaces and family-friendly amenities.

Trends and Opportunities: Rising interest in off-the-beaten-path destinations and solo travel. Vacation rentals can leverage these trends by promoting properties in scenic, less-known locations. Increasing focus on responsible travel practices and environmental consciousness among travelers.

Future Outlook: The vacation rental market is expected to grow significantly. The involvement of big hospitality names and changing consumer preferences will continue to drive this growth.

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Episode Summary

In this episode, we elaborate on the nascent but promising short-term rental market in India. Despite its small current size, it has significant growth potential, fueled by the under-penetrated hospitality market and a shortage of hotel accommodations. We have cited Booking.com’s report on the surge in demand for alternative stay options and referenced Make My Trip’s focus on this sector. The episode delves into the supply-demand dynamics, comparing India’s hotel supply with China’s and discussing the regulatory challenges in opening hotels in India. We also highlight the ease of converting existing villas and bungalows into rental properties and the increasing involvement of big hospitality brands in the vacation rental market. The discussion also covers the shift in travel preferences post-pandemic, especially among millennials and Gen Z, and the rising trend of family and multi-generational travel. The episode concludes with insights on how vacation rentals can cater to the growing interest in off-the-beaten-path destinations, solo travel, and responsible travel practices.

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Tags: dwell , india podcast , short-term rentals , skift podcast

Photo credit: Skift India Travel Podcast

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The 5 Best Down-Alternative Pillows

For soft and fluffy pillows, down alternatives are one of the best options if you don’t want real down pillows (or don’t want to pay a premium for down). Down-alternative pillows are also ideal for people with allergies, since they are most commonly filled with hypoallergenic synthetics. “Essentially, you get all the good stuff with no flare-ups,” as chiropractor Dr. Ben Carvosso put it to me. They are often also totally machine-washable — another pro for those with allergies. And, best of all, they’re usually way less expensive than other pillow styles.

To put together this list of the best down-alternative pillows, I consulted three physical-health experts about the benefits of down-alternative pillows and to get their recommendations of specific pillows. I also asked the Strategist staff for their recommendations, considered pillows I’ve previously tested, and finally tested five new down-alternative pillows myself to sort out the best of the best. Read on for my picks, or if you want to explore other pillow types, take a look at our best bed pillows .

What we’re looking for

Most down-alternative pillows are filled with a synthetic fiber fill — often polyester, also called polyfill. Though some down-alternative pillows are filled with natural materials like cotton, kapok, silk, or bamboo fiber, synthetic fibers are overwhelmingly common in this category. Still, just because two pillows are both made with polyfill doesn’t necessarily mean they’ll feel exactly the same. The thickness of the individual fibers (keep an eye out for the term denier — a lower denier means the fibers are thinner; a higher one means the fibers are thicker) and how densely the filling is stuffed can subtly alter how soft or firm a polyester-filled pillow feels.

Synthetic pillow fills are also usually the cheapest type of down alternative, as well as hypoallergenic (though you’ll still need to clean your pillow regularly). However, they are also less environmentally friendly than some natural materials, since they are basically plastic.

Loft is the height of a pillow, which plays a big role in how well it supports your head and neck. Depending on your main sleeping position ( back , side , or stomach) and your body size, you may need a higher or lower loft. Side sleepers typically need a higher loft, back sleepers typically need a medium loft, and stomach sleepers typically need a low loft to keep their head, neck, and spine in alignment. However, most down-alternative pillows are fairly compressive, meaning they squish down under the weight of your head and neck. So many down-alternative pillows can look quite lofty, but end up feeling lower as they settle when you lie down.

Firmness and support

Down-alternative pillows tend to be softer, since they are mimicking the feel of down — a material sought for pillows because of its softness. There is still some variation available, but if you want something truly firm, I’d recommend a denser fill, such as memory foam or latex . Down-alternative pillows can also vary in their support levels, even if they are soft. If a pillow is stuffed with a greater amount of fill, it can feel more supportive and will be less likely to compress beneath your head and neck. With less filling, your head and neck might sink through the pillow more easily. For each pillow, I’ve listed the firmness as soft, medium-soft, medium, medium-firm, or firm. Like loft, you can use your sleeping position as a starting point to determine what firmness is best for you. As a rule of thumb, side sleepers need a firmer pillow, back sleepers need a medium pillow, and stomach sleepers need a soft one.

Best down-alternative pillow overall

Fill type: Polyester fiber | Loft: Varies slightly by density, roughly medium to high | Firmness: Soft, medium, or firm

The first night I slept on this Boll & Branch Down-Alternative pillow, I double-checked the label to make sure the brand hadn’t accidentally sent me their real down pillow. The pillow felt so plush it was hard to believe it wasn’t the real thing. Boll & Branch offers this pillow in three densities, where the same pillow is stuffed with increasing amounts of fill to get a higher loft and firmer feel. I tried the medium version, which offered a pleasant mix of support and cushioning. I even felt my neck was fairly well-supported while side sleeping , which can be difficult to find in down-alternative pillows, since they are often soft and sink-y. The soft version would likely be a good choice for most stomach sleepers, while the firm would be good for back and side sleepers who like a firmer feel and/or want extra support.

Between feeling so similar to real down and actually being fairly supportive (with three density options), the Boll & Branch won the top spot for this list. And while not extremely cheap, it’s around the $100 mark, depending on which density and size you choose, so it’s less expensive than some of my other favorite pillows that have other (generally more expensive) fill types. It has a cotton shell, which is a nice touch for some added breathability, too.

Best (less expensive) down-alternative pillow overall

Fill type: Polyester fiber | Loft: Medium | Firmness: Medium

This two-pack of pillows holds a pretty close candle to the Boll & Branch pillow above with a price per pillow that’s less than half the cost. They are surprisingly supportive, while still feeling plush and down-y. Each is covered with a cotton shell and filled with polyester fiber fill, just like the Boll & Branch. When I tested them, I slept on my back and side and found both positions pretty comfortable — my neck felt well-supported without being cranked into any awkward position in either. Senior editor Jen Trolio is also a back and side sleeper and liked the fluffy feel of the Beckham pillows enough to buy additional pillows for her kids. They’re also a good choice for stomach sleepers, according to Strategist writer Arielle Avila, who rotates between her side and stomach easily on these pillows.

Despite all these pros, the Boll & Branch pillow still won out for me because of the three density options (the Beckham pillows come in just one density) and because the fill of the Boll & Branch has a slightly airier feel that I felt was more akin to actual down. Comparing them side by side, I think the Beckham pillow has a slightly faster response time after I press into it — which may be preferable to some people!) — but the slower response in the Boll & Branch feels more downlike to me.

Best adjustable-fill down-alternative pillow

Fill type: “Ultra-soft” microfiber | Loft: Adjustable | Firmness: Adjustable, arrives medium-soft

Adjustable pillows are a great option for people who want to get their pillow “just right” for their taste. But they tend not to be made with down-alternative fills — the Chinchilla pillow is one of the few that I’ve found. It’s filled with an ultrafluffy microfiber fill that looks a bit like cotton balls. To adjust the pillow, you simply unzip it and remove some of the fill, which will lower the loft and reduce the firmness of the pillow. It arrives fairly soft and with a low loft, however, so I doubt most people will need to make major adjustments — I didn’t need to change much to get comfortable on this pillow. Still, having the option to adjust makes this pillow customizable in a way that most other down-alternative pillows just aren’t. The ability to customize could be helpful for people who are simply extremely picky about their pillow, or who aren’t quite sure what they want from their pillow yet and want to experiment — just keep in mind you are paying a little extra with this pillow for that adjustability, compared to other down-alternative pillows. Beyond the fill, this pillow also has a bamboo-polyester blend cover. You can remove the cover to wash separately, but like most down alternatives, the entire pillow is machine-washable too.

Best down-alternative pillow for neck support

Fill type: Polyester microfiber fill | Loft: Mid-loft or low-loft | Firmness: Medium-firm

Down-alternative pillows often aren’t as supportive as other styles (like memory-foam or latex pillows ). To maximize neck support, chiropractor Dr. Sapna Sriram recommends a down-alternative pillow with a supportive inner core. One such pillow is the Casper Original pillow. It’s filled with polyester microfiber fill, like many other down-alternative pillows, but it uses a pillow-in-a-pillow design to provide more support. The inner pillow is more densely filled to provide the neck support; it sits inside the zippered outer pillow, which has microfiber fill lightly stuffed on each side to add additional plushness. Together, this makes for a cushy yet supportive pillow.

Strategist writer Brenley Goertzen is a longtime fan of this pillow and loves it so much she evangelizes about it to her family members, who have been convinced to buy their own. A stomach and side sleeper, Goertzen says the pillow gives her enough support on her side while still feeling comfortable when she’s on her stomach.

Best natural-filling down-alternative pillow

Fill type: Mulberry silk | Loft: Low | Firmness: Soft

Most down-alternatives are filled with a synthetic fiber, but this silk-filled pillow from Cozy Earth makes for a great natural-fill option. This pillow is covered with a bamboo cover and filled with mulberry silk, giving it an ultrasoft feel and excellent temperature regulation (it’s one of my favorite cooling pillows , too). Though this pillow is very soft and compressed a fair amount underneath my head, I felt comfortable laying on my back with this pillow. I think it could also work well for many stomach sleepers, as they’ll be able to sink in without their necks being pushed upwards. And while I didn’t find it quite supportive enough for side sleeping, Strategist senior editor Simone Kitchens, a side and back sleeper, stacks her Cozy Earth Silk pillow on top of a firmer pillow for the perfect balance of plushness and support. This pillow is significantly more expensive than the others on this list, but seeing as silk is an all-natural material (that tends to be costly anyway), it’s no surprise that it costs more than pillows filled with polyester.

Our experts

• Arielle Avila , Strategist writer • Dr. Ben Carvosso, chiropractor and owner of MP Nutrition • Brenley Goertzen , Strategist writer • Simone Kitchens , Strategist senior editor • Dr. Laura Purdy , M.D. and board-certified family-medicine physician • Jen Trolio , Strategist senior editor • Dr. Sapna Sriram , chiropractor, acupuncturist, strength and conditioning specialist, and co-founder and CEO of Integra Health

The Strategist  is designed to surface useful, expert recommendations for things to buy across the vast e-commerce landscape. Every product is independently selected by our team of editors, whom you can read about  here . We update links when possible, but note that deals can expire and all prices are subject to change.

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Rethymno Aims to Become Premier Cycling Tourism Destination

Municipal councilor, Konstantinos Gasparakis (left) at a meeting with local tourism professionals. Photo source: Rethymnon Municipality

The Municipality of Rethymno , located on Crete , is focusing on developing cycling tourism to promote alternative, sustainable forms of tourism.

In this effort, Konstantinos Gasparakis , the Municipal Councilor responsible for Tourism in Rethymno, recently met with local businesses involved in the cycling sector. He outlined the municipality’s goal to establish a sustainable plan for promoting cycling tourism .

Gasparakis encouraged collaboration with local professionals.

“Considering environmental factors related to climate change, the needs of visitors, modern infrastructure, our traditional culture, and the natural resources of Rethymno and Crete, we should all work together , leveraging our expertise, to develop a sustainable plan for promoting cycling tourism in Rethymno,” he said.

It is worth noting that Rethymno was certified as a “Bike Friendly Destination” in 2021 by NatTour and the Hellenic Society of the Protection of Nature (EEPF) .

Photo source: Atlas Cycling Team

According to Gasparakis, a key goal of the municipality’s cycling tourism strategy is to attract visitors throughout the yea r, extending beyond the peak tourism season. The “comfortable temperatures” on Crete during the fall, spring, and even winter months will encourage bike riders to spend more time on the island.

During the meeting, it was emphasized that using bicycles for transportation, exercise, or leisure is seen as a major ecological advantage.

Gasparakis mentioned that the issue of establishing a cycling tourism strategy will be revisited and discussed further at the next meeting of the Municipal Committee of Rethymno for Tourist Development and Promotion, scheduled for August.

The meeting with local cycling sector representatives took place at the Ibiscos Garden Hotel, which has been certified as “Bike Friendly” and operates a cycling station on its premises.

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