Visiting Berlin in Winter: 15 Things to Do + TIPS

Visiting Berlin in winter is definitely worth it, especially if you like big cities with lots of indoor culture, cozy cafés, and exploring in crisp air. 

This winter, I spent a couple of days in Berlin, and yes, it was cold. Like, really cold. Luckily, there are so many things to do in Berlin in winter that don’t require being outside! 

At the same time, you’ll see locals enjoying outdoor activities even when temperatures are negative, so maybe it’s just a matter of dressing well.

Winter in Berlin is longer than just December, so even when the Christmas markets close, Berlin stays busy. Here are the top Berlin activities that should be on your itinerary!

Is Berlin worth visiting in winter?

As I walked down the streets of Berlin, the wind cutting right through my jacket, I couldn’t help but wonder: “Is Berlin really worth visiting in winter?”

I eventually concluded that yes, Berlin is absolutely worth visiting in winter, I just needed to throw on an extra layer when I got back to the hotel.

Berlin in winter is cold, often damp, and can be very windy. If you can’t handle the cold, you might not enjoy your trip.

But that same cold pushes you indoors into museums, cafés, bars, and cultural spaces where Berlin really shines, and the city feels more “local” than in peak summer. 

Accommodation prices are generally lower outside of the Christmas and New Year peak, making winter one of the more budget-friendly times to visit, which is good as Germany is one of the more expensive countries in Europe.

What is Berlin like in winter?

Temperatures often hover around freezing, and it can feel much colder because of the wind, especially when you’re walking between sights or waiting on exposed platforms. 

Snow is possible but not guaranteed; some winters are grey and drizzly, others bring a few magical snowy days when parks and lakes turn into winter postcards. It was very sunny when I visited, but still cold.

My biggest issue with visiting Europe in winter is that the days are so short, with sunset already around 4 PM. 

1. Enjoy Berlin’s famous landmarks without the crowds

Winter is one of the best times to explore Berlin’s iconic sights. I was pleasantly surprised by how uncrowded the city felt, even at its most popular tourist attractions.

The Brandenburg Gate looks striking against the grey winter sky, and the walk down the popular Unter den Linden feels surprisingly peaceful without the summer crowds. 

Visiting the Reichstag Dome is especially enjoyable in winter since you can usually enter with shorter waits, and the glass dome gives you beautiful views of the city wrapped in winter light. 

Even Museum Island, one of Berlin’s most visited areas, feels calm and quiet, making it a perfect time to wander the historic streets and admire Berlin Cathedral up close.

TOP TIP: Curious about the stories behind Berlin’s landmarks? Join this free walking tour and discover the city with a local guide!

2. Spend a day on Museum Island

If you’re looking to escape the cold, Museum Island is the place to go. Firstly, the buildings here are some of the most beautiful in the city, but the real magic happens inside. You could easily spend an entire day here exploring masterpieces and ancient treasures. 

The Neues Museum, home to the world-famous Nefertiti Bust, is particularly impressive, while the Altes Museum and Alte Nationalgalerie offer collections that are perfect for slow, contemplative winter afternoons. 

TOP TIP: If you want to visit several museums, it is worth getting the Berlin WelcomeCard. It includes entrance to many museums and transportation!

3. Dive into Berlin’s Cold War history

Winter gives Berlin’s Cold War sites an atmospheric, almost cinematic feel. Walking along the East Side Gallery when the air is crisp, and the sky is pale, makes the artwork stand out even more. 

The Berlin Wall Memorial at Bernauer Strasse is fascinating and moving; the open-air exhibits, preserved wall sections, and viewing tower help you imagine what the city once looked like. 

Of course, you can’t miss Checkpoint Charlie. It is touristy, but I feel like it’s one of those iconic spots in the city that you just have to see.

4. Experience Berlin’s Christmas markets (in December)

If you’re visiting in late November or December, Berlin’s Christmas markets will instantly put you in a festive mood. Berlin is one of the best places in Europe for the Christmas market, so you’re in for a treat!

I was there in late November, so some markets were already open, but most were just getting ready. There are so many to choose from! 

I really liked the one next to the Kaiser Wilhelm Memorial Church, with cozy stalls, glowing lights, and delicious food. Charlottenburg Palace hosts a particularly magical market, set against the backdrop of the illuminated palace. 

5. Explore Berlin’s famous nightlife

Winter absolutely does not slow down Berlin’s nightlife; if anything, it makes it even more appealing. Whether you’re into techno clubs, live music, craft cocktail bars, or casual pubs, Berlin has something for every mood. It is also one of the best places for NYE in Europe if you’re into clubbing!

Now, I am not into techno, so I don’t have any personal recommendations, but Berlin nightlife is so iconic that you’ll have no problem figuring that out. I went for a drink in the Kreuzberg area, and there were so many places to choose from.

6. Warm up in one of Berlin’s cozy cafés

Before traveling to Berlin, I bookmarked all the vegan bakeries and cafes I wanted to visit and made sure to pop in to warm up several times a day. Berlin’s café culture is strong year-round, but winter makes it even better.

7. See a show at Friedrichstadt‑Palast or another theater

Friedrichstadt‑Palast is famous for its big, Vegas‑style productions with elaborate costumes, acrobatics, and dance, and you don’t need to speak German to enjoy it. 

Other venues, like Admiralspalast, Berlin’s three opera houses, and countless small theaters and cabarets, also offer a rich winter program. Booking ahead is recommended for weekend evenings, especially around Christmas and New Year.

8. Take a Spree River cruise in a heated boat

River cruises on the Spree run year‑round, and in winter, many boats have enclosed, heated cabins with big windows or glass roofs. You can sit with a hot drink while Berlin’s architecture, bridges, and embassies glide past, instead of freezing on the riverbank. 

Daytime cruises are best for seeing details, while evening cruises feel cozy and atmospheric with the city lights. I always prefer seeing the city during the day, but it can be a fun thing to do in Berlin at night, especially since night is already at 5PM.

🛥️❄️ Spree River cruises are one of the most popular things to do in Berlin, so make sure you book your cruise in advance, especially if you’re visiting in December!

9. Enjoy Berlin’s diverse winter comfort food

One of the reasons I booked a spontaneous winter trip to Berlin was definitely for the abundance of vegan restaurants in Berlin.

Berlin’s food scene is perfect for cold weather, and it’s one of the most vegan-friendly cities in the world. From steaming bowls of pho or ramen to traditional German dishes like currywurst and hearty stews, there’s something comforting around every corner. 

Here are some of my favorite vegan restaurants in Berlin that you should bookmark for your trip:

• Shisomen Vegan Ramen & Cocktails
• Zerö Kebab | Plant-Based Döner
• Veg-D, Vegan Burgers

10. Visit the charming Charlottenburg Palace

If you have more than a quick weekend in Berlin, it is worth venturing out to the Charlottenburg Palace. This stunning palace looks straight out of a winter fairytale, especially if you’re lucky enough to catch it dusted with snow. 

The richly decorated interiors are warm and elegant, making it a perfect winter escape. If you’re visiting in December, the palace grounds host one of the city’s most beautiful Christmas markets.

11. Relax in one of Berlin’s spas

I was quite surprised to learn that Berlin has quite a lively spa culture. If the cold gets too intense, spending a few hours in a Berlin spa is the perfect antidote. 

Vabali Spa is one of the most popular, offering warm pools, saunas, and relaxation rooms that feel like a tropical escape from the Berlin winter. Liquidrom, with its futuristic saltwater pool and underwater music, is another unforgettable experience.

I don’t know about you, but enjoying a warm spa is definitely one of those activities that I would put on my European winter bucket list!

12. Go ice skating 

Berlin has several ice rinks that pop up during winter, and they’re great fun whether you’re a confident skater or just shuffling around. 

The rink by the Neptune Fountain near Alexanderplatz is one of the most atmospheric, especially in the evenings when the buildings around you light up. It’s only open during the Christmas market season, so it’s worth checking out if you’re visiting Berlin in December.

13. Explore Berlin’s indoor attractions

Berlin also has endless indoor options to keep you entertained. Beyond Museum Island, Berlin has over 170 museums covering everything from Jewish history to contemporary art and retro gaming. 

You can spend an afternoon at the German Historical Museum, watch a movie in one of the many cinemas, see a concert at the Philharmonie, or explore the shops and restaurants at the Sony Center.

14. Stroll through snowy parks (or just cold ones)

I loved how many green spaces and parks Berlin has. Winter might not be the ideal time for long outdoor strolls, but if you don’t mind the cold, it’s still worth exploring these peaceful spots.

Head straight to Tiergarten, Tempelhofer Feld, or the park around Charlottenburg Palace for a proper winter walk. These green spaces are lovely for a midday leg‑stretch, with bare trees, quiet paths, and the occasional brave jogger or dog walker. 

Also, Viktoriapark in Kreuzberg is a fun spot to see local sledding when there’s enough snow on the hill.

15. Take a day trip to Potsdam

Finally, you can also add a fun winter day trip to your Berlin itinerary. Potsdam is one of those places that feels almost magical in winter. 

You can easily take an S‑Bahn S7 from central Berlin (stations like Alexanderplatz, Friedrichstraße, or Hauptbahnhof) straight to Potsdam Hauptbahnhof.

Some of the best things to see are the Sanssouci Park and the Glienicke Bridge, which is famous for Cold War spy exchanges.

Where to Stay in Berlin in Winter

A good place to stay can make all the difference on a Berlin winter trip. After hours of exploring in the cold, it’s worth spending a bit more to be near public transport. That way, you can get around the city easily and spend less time outside.

Top Pick (Luxury): Hotel Adlon Kempinski

If you want to experience Berlin in winter with absolute comfort, Hotel Adlon Kempinski is hard to beat. Located right next to the Brandenburg Gate, it offers beautiful rooms, a cozy atmosphere, and an exceptional spa. It’s a splurge, but if you’re visiting in winter, the comfort definitely pays off.

Mid-Range: Relexa Hotel Berlin (I stayed here and loved it!)

I stayed at Relexa Hotel Berlin, and it was perfect for a winter visit. The rooms were warm and spacious, the beds incredibly comfortable, and the breakfast was exactly what I needed before heading out into the cold. The location is just a 2-minute walk from the metro, making it easy to reach most attractions.

Best Hostel: The Circus Hostel

There are many hostels in Berlin, but The Circus Hostel would be my first choice. It’s clean, warm, welcoming, and located in the heart of Mitte. The common areas are also great places to relax when you need a break from the cold.

What to Wear in Berlin in Winter

Winters in Berlin can be freezing, so packing the right clothing is essential to ensure you actually enjoy your trip.

A warm, windproof coat is the most important thing to bring, as the Berlin wind has a way of cutting right through lighter jackets. 

Layering is key, so pack sweaters, long-sleeve tops, and anything thermal that keeps you comfortable while still allowing you to move around easily. 

Don’t forget to take a thick scarf, warm hat, and gloves. They will save you on those days when the temperature drops and the wind picks up. 

Comfortable, waterproof shoes or boots are also a must, especially if it snows or rains. And because Berlin’s winter air is surprisingly dry, things like lip balm and moisturizer are worth bringing along. 

I packed in personal item sized backpack as I was flying to Berlin with easyjet, but you really don’t need much more space if you’re not shopping. Your jacket will cover all of your outfits anyways!

Summary: Winter in Berlin

Berlin in winter might not be the first choice for most people, but I quite enjoyed my time in the city once I put on enough layers of clothing.

Yes, it’s cold, sometimes very cold. But the city stays lively, packed with culture, museums, cozy cafés, and great food. Even after the Christmas markets close, there’s no shortage of activities, neighborhoods to explore, and history to uncover.