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Berlin is a city with so much to offer, from its famous landmarks and bustling streets to its exciting nightlife and world-class museums. But sometimes, the best parts of a city are the ones that are off the beaten path. That’s why I’m excited to share with you some hidden gems in Berlin that are worth seeking out.
These unique and lesser-known spots will take you beyond the typical tourist destinations and provide an unforgettable experience of the city. And the best thing is: all these places and attractions have been carefully handpicked and submitted by locals and travelers with Giving Getaway’s Hidden Gems Collector.
Now let’s discover some of the best-kept secrets this city has to offer and take a journey through these 15 hidden gems in Berlin you shouldn’t miss!
1) Spreepark
The Spreepark, an abandoned amusement park, is probably one of the most unique places in Berlin. Looking like something out of an eerie dream and filled with remnants from its three decades as a vibrant attraction, this hidden gem has been left to decay since 2002 and is now one of the most fascinating places to visit in Berlin.
The communist government built the VEB Kulturpark Plänterwald (later known as Spreepark) in 1969, but it was taken over by Norbert Witte in 1991 who decided to change things up a bit. He replaced the asphalt surface with grass and water features while also installing rides he bought from Mirapolis near Paris. Things were going well until 2002 when police discovered that Witte had gotten involved in smuggling cocaine! The park was then shut down for good.
Despite this dark history, there’s still plenty of beauty at Spreepark today if you’re brave enough to explore it. You can find remnants from both periods such as Ferris wheels, rollercoasters, restaurants and more – all covered in cobwebs and vines. If you have the chance, be sure to check out the English village facade or take a ride on the old cup carousel before these attractions disappear forever.
But don’t worry; despite years of neglect Grün Berlin GmbH recently took possession of the site with plans being considered for restoration into an artsy cultural centre. So even though Spreepark may not exist in its original form much longer, we can rest assured knowing that it won’t stay desolate forever.
2) Berlin Story Bunker
Exploring Berlin’s hidden gems is like diving into a treasure chest filled with ancient history. Amidst the hustle and bustle of modern-day life, one must remember to explore what lies beneath. The Berlin Story Bunker has been standing since WW2 and contains stories that will captivate your heart immediately. It offers tours of its dark corridors, painting an unforgettable picture of a past full of pain and suffering through underground art installations.
The Berlin Story Bunker takes you on a chronological journey through 800 years of history from the time of Frederick the Great in the 18th century until the late twentieth century during which the infamous Berlin Wall came down. With multimedia displays including large scale photographs, short films, sculptures and oil lamp lighting, you are pulled back in time as they step into each scene. One such scene tells the story of the “Trümmerfrauen” who cleaned up after bombings. Another paints a vivid image of Hitler’s rise to power through anti-Semitism leading to concentration camps and mass genocide.
You also have access to information about how thousands of people sought refuge at Anhalter Station before it was destroyed by air raids. Throughout this experience graffiti lines the walls reminding everyone “He who builds the bunker drops bombs.” But despite all these grim moments, there is still hope for peace, reconciliation and freedom available within this space.
From learning about everyday family life from 1880 to discovering more about WWII atrocities, this historic site showcases both triumphs and tribulations throughout Germany’s long and complicated history.
3) Markthalle Neun
Markthalle Neun is certainly one of the best hidden gems in Berlin and it’s been around since 1891! Inside is an amazing array of sustainable shopping options – from local produce to exotic flavors, and the atmosphere is always buzzing with people enjoying the wide variety of foods available.
Stroll through “Street Food Thursday” for some delicious street food or grab breakfast at the “Breakfast Market” every third Sunday of the month. And if you’re really looking for something special, then don’t miss out on Naschmarkt, only happening every three months but offering up a sweet treat heaven. There are stalls showcasing all sorts of cakes, biscuits, chocolates, macaroons and honeys that make use of ‘good, clean and fair’ ingredients following the slow-food concept.
The surrounding neighbourhood also has plenty to offer with its organic market selling fresh vegetables, milk and freshly baked breads as well as flea markets and children’s playgrounds right near Emmaus-Kirche which frequently hosts multicultural street fairs.
Visiting Markthalle Neun gives you a true sense of what life in Kreuzberg is like, vibrant and exciting with lots going on no matter what day you visit. Whether you come here to shop sustainably or just soak up the atmosphere, this historic market should definitely be on your list when visiting Berlin in 2023.
4) Café Morgenland
Café Morgenland is a hidden gem that not only has amazingly delicious food, but it’s also the perfect place to experience Berlin’s unique café culture. As soon as you enter this cozy little spot, you can feel the vibrant energy from all its patrons.
The menu consists of Mediterranean cuisine that will make your mouth water. Some favorite dishes include kama, chicken wings, couscous and their famous berlin pancake and crepes. You can also find an array of tasty drinks such as beer, bitter, espresso tea and juice at very reasonable prices. The staff are friendly and helpful which makes for an enjoyable dining experience!
Café Morgenland is also known for its interesting blend of music and cuisine, representing both Eastern and Western cultures. Classical Arabic music is played while serving traditional European dishes, creating a unique and memorable dining experience. All these elements combined make this place one of the best hidden gems in Berlin.
5) Viktoriapark
Exploring Viktoriapark in Berlin is an absolute must for anyone visiting the city in 2023. Located at the top of Kreuzberg, it offers stunning views and a unique landscape that takes you back to centuries past. From its history as a symbol of Prussian liberation to its modern-day status as one of Berlin’s most beautiful green spaces, Viktoriapark has something for everyone.
Viktoriapark was originally built by Karl Friedrich Schinkel between 1818 and 1891 with sculptures created by Christian Daniel Rauch, Friedrich Tieck, and Ludwig Wichmann. In 1880, Emperor Frederick III decided to build a green space around the monument which eventually reached its current size of 13 hectares. The Wolf Gorge located east of the National Monument also adds to Viktoriapark’s natural beauty, it looks almost like being transported into the Black Forest!
When exploring the Viktoriapark, you should be sure not to miss out on seeing the mountain landscape carved out of the ground along with 24 metre high waterfall found in the middle of Berlin. On top of that, there is even wine grown below the national monument since 1968 called Kreuz-Neoberger; however do note that it isn’t pressed onsite but rather near Wiesbaden.
Overall, exploring Viktoriapark allows you to experience a mix of German history combined with breathtaking scenery that only increases over time, making it absolutely worth checking out while in Berlin during 2023!
6) Werkbundarchiv – Museum der Dinge
Located in an old workshop building, the Museum der Dinge is dedicated to preserving and displaying industrial mass production from the 20th and 21st centuries.
It contains over 30,000 documents and around 20,000 objects that document how design has evolved over time. These pieces demonstrate the relationship between Werkbund-specific products and mass produced goods, individual works of art, functional purist objects and ‘kitsch’, branded goods and no-name products. All these things are presented in ways that explore their cultural significance as well as show off curatorial practices.
The museum offers you a unique opportunity to follow the handling of its collections directly while also getting insight into aesthetic education which was at the core of DWB’s mission when it was founded back in 1907. It seeks to reform life through modern design while counteracting alienation with industrially manufactured products.
A visit there will make you realise just how much effort goes into keeping such precious artifacts safe for future generations so they can get a glimpse into our past culture and society.
7) Prater Beer Garden
The Prater Beer Garden has been around since 1837 and offers an amazing atmosphere that can’t be found elsewhere in Berlin. With its huge selection of beers, traditional fare, and cozy garden atmosphere, this place should definitely be on your list for 2023!
This beautiful beer garden is located directly at Kastanienallee in Prenzlauer Berg which makes it very easy to get to after spending time exploring Mauerpark nearby. The wooden furniture creates a homely feel that invites you to sit back and relax while enjoying one of their delicious beers beneath the trees illuminated by fairy lights once night falls.
And when it comes to food, there’s nothing like their house-made Berliner cuisine. It’s full of flavour with seasonal specialities to try as well, some highlights include their daily changing soups, the Leberkäse, trout and duck. Plus, there are projects from Volksbühne playing in both the open air theater and hall throughout the year so you won’t miss out on any entertainment either.
8) Tempelhofer Feld
One of the most unique and unexpected hidden gems in Berlin is the Tempelhofer Feld. What was once a busy airport has been transformed into a vast public park, giving you a chance to experience a bit of Berlin’s history while enjoying the great outdoors. During the Cold War, Tempelhof Airport played a pivotal role in the Berlin Airlift, delivering supplies to West Berlin during the Soviet blockade. The airport closed in 2008, and the land was transformed into a park in 2010.
Today, Tempelhofer Feld is a massive 386-hectare public park that offers something for everyone. The park is perfect for biking, walking, or even rollerblading, and it offers stunning views of the city skyline. In the summer months, locals flock to the park to enjoy picnics, barbecues, and outdoor events. The park is also home to several community gardens, where you can see the local green thumbs at work.
In addition to its recreational opportunities, Tempelhofer Feld is also a popular destination for those interested in history and architecture. You can take a guided tour of the airport building and learn about its fascinating history, including its role during World War II and the Cold War. The building itself is an impressive example of Nazi-era architecture, with its massive columns and sweeping concrete curves.
All that makes the Tempelhofer Feld a must-visit destination for anyone looking for a unique outdoor experience in Berlin.
9) Literaturhaus Berlin
The Literaturhaus Berlin is an absolute must-see for anyone visiting the beautiful city of Berlin in 2023. This hidden gem is a magnificent villa near Kurfürstendamm, surrounded by peace and serenity and known for its stunning Great Hall hosting a variety of literary events throughout the year.
From author readings to writing workshops and reading groups, there’s something here for everyone who loves literature. Even if you don’t have time to attend any of the amazing events on offer, simply exploring this historic building will be interesting enough. From its rich history as a hospital during WWI to its transformation into a café, brothel and discotheque before becoming a home for literature, it’s sure to leave you feeling inspired after every visit.
As if that wasn’t enough, the Literaturhaus also has an incredible bookshop stocked with all sorts of books from classic works to current titles. And if you want something more than just books, you can just pop into their cafe-restaurant Wintergarten where you can enjoy their lovely front garden when the weather permits.
10) Hackesche Höfe
Not only is the Hackesche Höfe in Berlin a great place to explore some of the city’s cultural history and art galleries, but it also offers glimpses into modern architecture that you won’t find anywhere else. Even if you’re not an art aficionado or admirer of German culture, there’s something here for everyone to enjoy.
The complex consists of eight courtyards located between Rosenthaler Straße and Sophienstraße, with 27,000 square metres of space spread across 40 businesses. There are plenty of restaurants, bars and shops selling all sorts of wares from artisanal gifts to quirky souvenirs.
And if you’re feeling hunger coming up you can even try out one of the numerous food stalls dotted around where you can get everything from traditional German sausages to exotic dishes from further afield. It really does offer something for everyone!
One thing that makes this courtyard special is its long-standing connection to art and culture. The area has been home to artists since reunification in 1993, giving you access to unique pieces you wouldn’t find elsewhere. As well as independent stores being on hand to purchase these works or just browse through interesting finds, there are also several notable galleries such as KW Institute for Contemporary Art or Hamburger Bahnhof Museum für Gegenwart which display their own exhibitions throughout the year.
Visiting Hackesche Höfe is like stepping back in time while still staying firmly rooted in the present day. From its beautiful façades designed by August Endell over 100 years ago right up until today’s vibrant mix of music venues, cafes and boutiques, walking around here will make sure your trip to Berlin is anything but boring!
11) Thai Park
The Thaipark in Berlin is not only a great place to get your hands on some delicious, authentic Thai cuisine, but it’s also an opportunity to experience the cultural influences that have made this city unique.
Located in Preußenpark, the market has sixty stalls serving up everything from tom yum soup to green curry and pad thai. The aromas are amazing and each stall puts its own twist on traditional dishes using local ingredients. You can find street food vendors offering their take on classic dishes like mango sticky rice or som tam salad as well as snacks like deep-fried banana fritters.
Beyond the food, there are plenty of activities going on too. Vendors selling handmade goods line the perimeter of the park while others offer blessings or give small talks about Buddhism and other spiritual practices. Sometimes even live music plays while people wander around admiring the work at craft booths and chatting with locals who come out every day just to enjoy being part of this vibrant community.
The Thaipark Berlin is truly an unforgettable experience full of delicious flavors, interesting sights, sounds, and smells – a true taste of Thailand right in the heart of Germany!
12) Teufelsberg
If you’re looking for urban exploration in Berlin, Teufelsberg is the perfect place to go. This former American listening station played a key role during the Cold War and still stands tall today. Located 114 meters (374 feet) up on a hill of rubble that was once created by Nazi architecture.
Today, Teufelsberg is a popular destination for visitors to Berlin who are looking for a unique and off-the-beaten-path experience. You can hike to the top of the hill and explore the abandoned listening station, which is covered in colorful graffiti and street art. You can also take tours through the ruins of the complex with its five large radar domes covered in graffiti – giving off an eerie atmosphere from its time during the Cold War era.
In addition to its historical significance, Teufelsberg is also known for its stunning views of the city. From the top of the hill, you can see panoramic views of Berlin’s skyline and surrounding countryside. It’s a great spot to watch the sunset or take in the city lights at night.
You’ll also get to experience a street art exhibition featuring over 400 works from international artists that are added every month. All that makes Teufelsberg a must-visit destination for anyone looking to explore Berlin’s fascinating history and take in its natural beauty.
13) Schokoladen
Schokoladen is a hidden gem in the heart of Berlin’s Mitte district that offers a unique combination of live music, art, and delicious drinks. This cozy and intimate venue is a favorite among locals for its relaxed atmosphere and eclectic mix of events.
Schokoladen has a long history as a cultural hub in Berlin. It was founded in the early 1990s as an artist collective and has since become a beloved institution in the city’s alternative music scene. The venue’s walls are covered in colorful murals and street art, giving it a unique and funky vibe.
Live music is the main attraction at Schokoladen, and visitors can catch everything from punk rock to experimental jazz performances. The venue also hosts art exhibitions, poetry readings, and other cultural events, making it a great place to experience the city’s creative side.
But Schokoladen is more than just a music venue – it’s also a great spot to grab a drink and relax. The bar serves a variety of beers, cocktails, and non-alcoholic beverages, and the friendly staff is always happy to chat with visitors and offer recommendations.
14) Wasserturm Prenzlauer Berg
The Prenzlauer Berg’s iconic Wasserturm (water tower) is an imposing structure which is a reminder of Berlin’s imperial history and its architectural styles. It has been standing tall since the mid-19th century, when it was one of the city’s first water supply facilities.
Today, the Wasserturm Prenzlauer Berg is home to a variety of cultural and community events, including art exhibitions, concerts, and theater performances. You can also climb to the top of the tower for a panoramic view of the city, making it a popular yet often overlooked spot for tourists and locals alike.
The area surrounding it offers plenty of activities too: there are benches for picnicking, playgrounds and table tennis tables nearby, not to mention the bustling Kollwitzplatz market. There is also a mural depicting what the complex looked like during the 19th century!
For those who’d rather take in some views with their coffee, head up to the High Park which is accessible via a staircase leading right off from the water tower. Here you can admire TV towers and Wilhelminian style buildings while enjoying some peace and tranquillity away from all the hustle and bustle of city life.
15) Clärchens Ballhaus
Berlin is full of hidden gems and one such gem is Clärchens Ballhaus, a lively dance hall and restaurant, which has been around since 1913. The moment you step into the ballroom, it’s like stepping back in time to an era of vintage music and carefree dancing that will transport your senses and make you forget all your worries.
Clärchens Ballhaus is especially known for its lively music and dance events. From swing and tango to rock and roll and electronic music, the ballroom offers something for everyone, even weekly dancing classes offered here, and a restaurant that serves up some delicious German cuisine!
One of the most notable features of Clärchens Ballhaus is its beautiful Art Nouveau architecture, which has been carefully preserved over the years. The ballroom’s intricate moldings, soaring ceilings, and elegant chandeliers create a magical atmosphere that transports visitors back in time to the early 20th century.
Conclusion
Berlin is an ever-evolving city, and its hidden gems are a testament to this. From the Spreepark to the Berlin Story Bunker, from Markthalle 9 to the Tempelhofer Feld – exploring these off-the-beaten track spots in 2023 will make for a truly unique experience.
Venture further into Viktoriapark or take a tour of Teufelsberg or soak up the Prenzlauer Berg atmosphere at the iconic water tower Wasserturm. These unique locations offer a truly authentic experience and will leave you with lasting memories of your time spent in Cape Town. So if you’re planning a trip there soon, be sure not to overlook them!
And if you do so, make sure to book your hotel, flight or rental car with Giving Getaway. Every completed booking earns Giving Getaway a commission, 50% of which will be used to organize charity events like the 2021 Christmas gift drive for kids and teenagers in a children’s home in Montenegro.
So not only will you be experiencing the trip of a lifetime, but you’ll also be contributing to a great cause. Start planning your trip now and make a difference with Giving Getaway!
