4 Day Berlin Itinerary: How I Spent The Perfect 96 Hours in Berlin Germany

If you ask me, Berlin is definitely the best city to visit in Germany. Honestly, if you only had time for one German city, I’d tell you to make it Berlin every single time.

It’s the capital, sure, but that’s just the start. Berlin is packed with history, layered with culture, and just full of energy. From art museums to WWII sites, from palaces to gritty street art, and from cozy beer gardens to crazy nightlife, you’ll never run out of things to do. Out of all the German cities I’ve been to, Berlin just has the most to offer, and every time I visit, i get to explore something new.

I’ve been lucky to visit Berlin quite a few times. Growing up in Germany, it was always the go-to for school trips and later on for weekends away, so I’ve had the chance to explore a lot of its corners. That’s why I finally decided to put together my perfect 4 day Berlin itinerary, including my favorite landmarks, museums I actually enjoyed, and my top neighborhoods.

In my opinion, four days in Berlin really is the sweet spot. You’ll get enough time to see everything you need to see and even a little more. So let’s get into how I would spend 96 hours in Berlin Germany.

In a Rush? Here Are Our Favorite Hotels in Berlin Germany

⭐️⭐️⭐️ Boutique Hotel Chateau Royal – Click here for rates & availability

⭐️⭐️ Locke at East Side Gallery – Click here for rates & availability

⭐️ Sly Berlin – Click here for rates & availability

4 Day Berlin Itinerary: How I Spent The Perfect 96 Hours in Berlin Germany

4 Day Berlin Itinerary – My Experience

As I’ve already mentioned, I grew up in Germany (closer to Cologne, not Berlin), but since Berlin is our capital and such a huge chunk of German history played out there, I ended up on countless school trips as a teenager. And in recent years, I’ve come back plenty of times as an adult.

Now, would I ever live in Berlin? Probably not. For me personally, it’s a little too edgy and a little too grey. But I really like Berlin from a tourist’s perspective with its many museums and fascinating landmarks.

This exact itinerary isn’t one I’ve followed step by step (I’ve just done Berlin in so many different ways over the years). But I wanted to create what I think would be the perfect 4 day Berlin itinerary for someone visiting for the first time. It includes all the obvious must-sees like the Brandenburg Gate, the Berlin Wall, and a few other icons, but also a day trip to Sachsenhausen concentration camp.

As for my personal favorites I have to say, it’s The museums. I was recently at the Pergamon Museum and was blown away by it, it’s just so massive and incredible. But my number one has to be the Topography of Terror. I’ve been twice now, and both times it completely stopped me in my tracks. It’s disturbing, shocking, and yet so well put together that I’d call it a must if you have even a passing interest in Germany’s darker history.

Everything You Need to Know for 4 Days in Berlin Germany

Come to learn: Something I really want to stress about Berlin, and I can say this from personal experience, is that it’s not just a city to look at, it’s a city to learn from. Sure, you can wander past the Reichstag, take a photo at Checkpoint Charlie, or stand in front of the Berlin Wall. But honestly, without context, they’re just “things to look at.” I did a full Berlin Walking Tour and it was one of the best things I did in Berlin.

Stay somewhere central: Berlin technically doesn’t have one neat little “city center”, it’s way too spread out for that, but when I visit Berlin, I always make sure to stay somewhere between the Brandenburg Gate and Alexanderplatz. That way, I’m within reach of a lot of the big landmarks without wasting too much time on the subway. My favorite hotel in this area: Boutique Hotel Chateau Royal.

Take the subway: Speaking of the subway, the U-Bahn is your best friend in Berlin. Everything is too spread out to walk it all, so public transport isn’t optional, it’s essential. I hop on and off all day long whenever I visit, it’s cheap, quick, and saves my legs.

Get an eSIM: I don’t even bother with local SIM cards anymore, I just use an eSIM. In Germany, public Wi-Fi is… let’s say “unreliable at best.” Having data for Google Maps, train times, and random currywurst stand searches is non-negotiable for me. I use Simlocal (click here to sign up and use my discount code GIRLONAZEBRA), and it’s been a lifesaver.

Pack accordingly: Berlin’s weather is chaotic. One week you’re sweating through 35°C summer heat, the next week it’s grey, wet, and you’re questioning all your life choices. Winter can be freezing, summer can be scorching, spring and fall can go either way. Pack layers and always throw in a rain jacket, you’ll thank yourself later.

Cash is still king: Even in 2025, Germany still loves cash. Plenty of bars, corner shops, and even food stalls are cash-only. As someone who loves tapping my card for literally everything, I find it mildly infuriating, but hey, when in Berlin. Make sure you’ve got euros (not dollars, not pounds, actual euros).

My 4 Day Itinerary Berlin Germany

A quick note about this itinerary: it’s simply my personal take on Berlin, filled with the things I loved doing during my visits to Berlin. I’m not a local, far from it actually, so this isn’t a “live like a Berliner” type of guide.

Think of it more as one tourist sharing tips with another (I just happen to be German, which probably helps a little). That said, I do think I’ve managed to cover the must-sees along with some of the most fun things to do in the city.

These Are My Top Things to Do in Berlin

Day 1: Brandenburg Gate & Reichstag

For the very first day in Berlin, I always like to start with the classics. The morning begins at the Brandenburg Gate, Berlin’s most famous landmark and more than 230 years old. It’s one of those places you just have to see, touristy or not. The nice thing is, from here I can easily reach loads of other important spots on foot.

Just around the corner is Berlin’s government district, home to the Reichstag, the German parliament building. The highlight here is the glass dome, you can walk up it for amazing views of the city, but I also highly recommend joining a guided tour. I’ve done it myself, and it’s fascinating to learn about the Reichstag’s role in WWII, the Cold War, and how the Soviets eventually took over the building.

From here, it’s only a short walk to the Memorial to the Murdered Jews of Europe. It’s an important site to visit for its historical weight, but there isn’t much to “do” here, it’s more about reflection. (And please, don’t be that person taking Instagram photos between the blocks. Just…no.)

If you’re visiting on a sunny summer day, a walk through the Tiergarten, Berlin’s version of Central Park, is the perfect reset. I like to stop at Café am Neuen See, a small beer garden right by the water, for a cold drink and a laid-back lunch.

Afterwards, depending on the weather (and how much energy I have left), I’ll either walk back through the park or hop on the subway and head to the Topography of Terror Museum. Built on the site of the former Gestapo headquarters, it’s one of the most chilling museums I’ve ever been to.

Click Here: Tour the German Reichstag and Government District

Day 2: German Museums, Walking Tour & Kreuzberg

I usually start Day 2 of my Berlin itinerary in Berlin Mitte with a stroll down Unter den Linden (main street in Berlin) toward Museum Island. On the way you’ll pass the rebuilt Berlin Palace (Humboldt Forum) before reaching the cluster of world-class museums.

The highlight for me was finally visiting the Pergamon. I went on a weekday morning, which I highly recommend since weekends can get chaotic. The museum isn’t huge, but in about 90 minutes I wandered through towering reconstructions and artifacts from across the ancient world, and it was absolutely worth it.

Afterwards, brunch is in order, and my go-to is Father Carpenter. Tucked away in a courtyard, it’s the kind of café you’d miss if you didn’t know where to look. I’ve been here more times than I can count, and my order never changes: sourdough with avocado, salmon, and a poached egg, followed by their banana bread (easily the best I’ve had in Berlin).

The afternoon is perfect for a walking tour. You could wander on your own from landmark to landmark, but I found joining a guided tour made all the difference. My guide was a local with flawless English and a deep knowledge of Berlin’s history and it made everything make so much more sense. Learning about Checkpoint Charlie, the Berlin Wall and more was super helpful and interesting.

In the evening, head south to Kreuzberg or Neukölln for dinner. Berlin’s Turkish food scene is legendary, so I always suggest a döner at Öz Samsun 2, or if you’re craving pizza, Gazzo’s Neapolitan pies are some of my favorites.

To finish it all off, grab a drink at Klunkerkranich. Yes, it’s a little touristy and the cocktails aren’t cheap, but I had such a great time sitting on a quirky rooftop garden while the sun sets over Berlin.

Day 3: Charlottenburg Palace & River Cruise on the Spree

By Day 3, I like to change things up a little. Berlin isn’t just about Cold War history and gritty neighborhoods, it also has its share of elegance. I usually hop on the subway to Charlottenburg, one of the city’s fancier districts, to visit Charlottenburg Palace. The baroque façade and gardens feel worlds away from Mitte, and if the palace is open, I definitely recommend going inside. The interiors are ornate without being overwhelming, and it’s only about 30 minutes from the city center, so it’s an easy detour.

After a busy couple of days, the afternoon is perfect for slowing down. Instead of racing around more landmarks, I like to see the city from the water with a cruise on the Spree. I’ve done this a few times now, the standard sightseeing boats are fun, but my favorite was a boutique cruise on a sleek little electric boat. We had wine and beers on board, gliding past Berlin’s mix of old and modern architecture, and it felt both relaxing and memorable. It’s one of those activities where you still see a lot, but without having to move a muscle.

Click Here: Tickets for Charlottenburg Palace

Click Here: Tickets for Berlin River Cruise

Day 4: Sachsenhausen Concentration Camp Day Trip

For my last day, I like to step outside Berlin itself and take a day trip, usually to Sachsenhausen and Potsdam. I know a concentration camp visit isn’t everyone’s idea of “vacation fun,” but for me it felt essential. Maybe it’s my German background, but I think facing this part of history firsthand is important, and it’s something to approach with respect.

I booked my trip on GetYourGuide a couple of years ago and it couldn’t have been easier. We met early in the morning, hopped on a bus, and were introduced to our guide, Jonas. He was excellent, switching between commentary on the ride and leading us through Sachsenhausen with care and knowledge. What stood out most was his passion for Holocaust education; he answered every question with patience and clarity, and the walking tour itself was both sobering and unforgettable.

The trip continued on to Potsdam, which felt like a sharp but welcome contrast. We explored elegant palaces and gardens, and although the pace was busy, it was a fascinating glimpse into a completely different side of German history.

All in, the tour lasted about eight hours, so by the time we returned to Berlin I was ready for something quick and easy for dinner.

My go-to is always Curry 36. Yes, it’s iconic and yes, it’s a bit of a cliché, but biting into a paper tray of currywurst after a long day of exploring feels like the most Berlin way to wrap things up.

Click Here: Day Trip to Sachsenhausen Concentration Camp

Where to Stay in Berlin Germany

Figuring out where to stay in Berlin can be a bit tricky because the city is so spread out. Personally, I like being somewhere central, roughly between the Brandenburg Gate and Alexanderplatz. From here, I’m only a short walk or U-Bahn ride to many of Berlin’s must-sees: Museum Island, the TV Tower, the Reichstag, the Topography of Terror, and of course, the Brandenburg Gate itself.

The trade-off, though, is that central Berlin (Mitte) doesn’t necessarily have the best vibe when it comes to cafés, restaurants, and nightlife. For atmosphere, I think Friedrichshain, Kreuzberg, or Neukölln are much more fun. They’re packed with great coffee shops, street food, and bars, but staying there does mean a longer trip to the big tourist sights.

So it really depends on the type of trip you’re planning. If I’m visiting Berlin with someone who hasn’t been before, I’ll usually book a place in Mitte, it just makes sightseeing so much easier.

But if I’m here in summer, catching up with friends or traveling with someone who already knows the city, I’ll head straight for Kreuzberg, Neukölln, or Friedrichshain to enjoy the local vibe.

Here are a couple of Berlin hotels I’ve really enjoyed staying at:

Book Here: Boutique Hotel Chateau Royal

Book Here: Locke at East Side Gallery

Book Here: Sly Berlin

FAQs About My Berlin Travel Itinerary

How many days in Berlin do I need?

I think 3-4 days in Berlin is perfect. That gives you enough time to see the main landmarks, explore a few neighborhoods, and maybe even squeeze in a day trip. If you only have one or two days, it’s still worth it, you’ll just need to stick to the highlights.

Is Berlin worth visiting?

Absolutely. Few cities in Europe pack this much history and culture into one place. From Prussian palaces to Cold War stories, Berlin’s layers of history make it endlessly fascinating.

What to do in Berlin?

I always recommend mixing the big sights, like the Reichstag, Kaiser Wilhelm Memorial Church, Brandenburg Gate, and Museum Island with some neighborhood exploring. Hanging out in Kreuzberg or Friedrichshain gives you a feel for Berlin’s modern, creative side, and that balance makes the city so special.

Is Berlin safe for solo travelers?

Yes, Berlin is generally safe for solo travel. Like any big city, there are some rougher patches, but I’ve never had a bad experience even when exploring alone. Just use common sense, and you’ll be fine.

Final Thoughts on 4 Days in Berlin Itinerary

From my experience, 4 days is the sweet spot for Berlin. It’s enough time to see the major landmarks without rushing, and you can even fit in a day trip to Sachsenhausen or Potsdam if you want. With only 3 days, you’ll still cover most of the highlights you’ll just need to skip the day trip.

I hope this 4-day Berlin itinerary helps you plan your own trip to Germany’s capital. Whether it’s your first time or a return visit, Berlin has a way of surprising you every time.