Berlin — an expansive, introverted metropolis woven from resilience, artistic expression, and a tumultuous past — is one of the world’s most significant cultural hubs. While there are countless ways to explore the depth of this multifaceted city, a journey through its storied museums offers perhaps the most elegant approach. Here, you can travel back-and-forth through time and witness the artistic spirit that has shaped Berlin’s character, from the grandeur of ancient civilizations to the bold strokes of modern movements.
A City Reborn Through Art
Berlin’s artistic heritage is as complex as its long history. Once a center of Prussian royalty and artistic patronage, the city flourished during the 18th and 19th centuries. Artists, architects, and musicians flocked to Berlin, drawn by its vibrant culture and the support of enlightened rulers. This golden age is reflected in the city’s grand museums, like the Gemäldegalerie. Housing a treasure trove of Old Master paintings by Rembrandt, Vermeer, and Caravaggio, the Gemäldegalerie’s origins can be traced back to the Kunstkammer (Art Chamber) of the Electors of Saxony in Dresden, founded by Augustus I of Saxony in 1560.
The 20th century, however, brought a period of immense upheaval. Berlin became a battleground for ideologies, witnessing the rise and fall of the German Empire, the Weimar Republic, and Nazi Germany. The horrors of World War II and the subsequent division of the city left a deep scar on its soul. Yet, even in the darkest of times, the arts remained a persistent flame of hope. Artists working in the shadow of the Berlin Wall produced works that challenged authority and explored themes of isolation and division.
After the wall’s fall in 1989, Berlin experienced a renaissance. Artists from all over the world converged on the city, eager to be part of its newfound energy. Abandoned buildings were transformed into art spaces, and a new generation of artists emerged, drawing inspiration from the city’s intricate past and its wide-open future. Today, Berlin’s contemporary art scene is one of the most vibrant in Europe, with museums like the Hamburger Bahnhof showcasing cutting-edge works that push the boundaries of artistic expression. A portion of Berlin’s heritage and soft power are assembled in over 170 museums, each offering a unique window into the city’s, and, in fact, the world’s mesmerizing complexity.
Favorite Children
With so many museums to choose from, planning your itinerary can feel overwhelming. Well, since I haven’t exactly fathered any children, I get no remorse from being discerning. Here’s what I consider some of the city’s top artistic treasures.
Our Recommendations
Hamburger Bahnhof
Hamburger Bahnhof
Why we like it
Serving as a train station beginning in 1846, this contemporary art museum took over the building in 1996. There are always interesting exhibitions and it’s always worth a look when in Berlin. The cafe and bookstore are always amazing.
Where to find them
Invalidenstraße 50-51, Berlin, 10557, Germany
Were you here recently? Let us know how it went!
Helmut Newton Foundation Museum
Helmut Newton Foundation Museum
Why we like it
We’re huge fans of Helmut Newton – artist, commercial fashion photographer, and more. This Foundation was established just after his death in LA in 2003.
Where to find them
Im Museum für Fotografie, Jebensstraße 2, Berlin, 10623, Germany
Were you here recently? Let us know how it went!
Pergamon Museum
Pergamon Museum
Why we like it
Built between 1910-1930, this houses one of the world’s best collections of Near East and Islamic art. It’s been expanded and renovated over the last few decades. Please check their website for the construction schedule.
Where to find them
Bodestraße 1-3, Berlin, 10178, Germany
Were you here recently? Let us know how it went!
Neue Nationalgalerie
Neue Nationalgalerie
Why we like it
The last building designed by Mies van der Rohe, this museum houses 20th-century art and sculpture. The building itself is an international treasure.
Where to find them
Potsdamer Str. 50, Berlin, 10785, Germany
Were you here recently? Let us know how it went!
Jewish Museum
Jewish Museum
Why we like it
A must-see museum in Berlin. The Liebskind designed new wing is mainly focused on the Holocaust and is designed to be disorienting. The complex tells the full history of the Jewish people over millenia.
Where to find them
Lindenstraße 9-14, Berlin, 10969, Germany
Were you here recently? Let us know how it went!
Gemäldegalerie
Gemäldegalerie
Why we like it
Housing a treasure trove of Old Master paintings by Rembrandt, Vermeer, and Caravaggio, the Gemäldegalerie’s origins can be traced back to the Kunstkammer (Art Chamber) of the Electors of Saxony in Dresden, founded by Augustus I of Saxony in 1560.
Where to find them
Matthäikirchplatz, Berlin, 10785, Germany
Were you here recently? Let us know how it went!
Boros Collection
Boros Collection
Why we like it
BOOK AHEAD OF TIME for this reservations-only art museum in an above-ground bunker built in 1941 during WWII. One of the most interesting art museum experiences we’ve had.
Where to find them
Reinhardtstraße 20, Berlin, 10117, Germany
Were you here recently? Let us know how it went!
Hamburger Bahnhof
Hamburger Bahnhof
Why we like it
Serving as a train station beginning in 1846, this contemporary art museum took over the building in 1996. There are always interesting exhibitions and it’s always worth a look when in Berlin. The cafe and bookstore are always amazing.
Where to find them
Invalidenstraße 50-51, Berlin, 10557, Germany
Were you here recently? Let us know how it went!
Helmut Newton Foundation Museum
Helmut Newton Foundation Museum
Why we like it
We’re huge fans of Helmut Newton – artist, commercial fashion photographer, and more. This Foundation was established just after his death in LA in 2003.
Where to find them
Im Museum für Fotografie, Jebensstraße 2, Berlin, 10623, Germany
Were you here recently? Let us know how it went!
Pergamon Museum
Pergamon Museum
Why we like it
Built between 1910-1930, this houses one of the world’s best collections of Near East and Islamic art. It’s been expanded and renovated over the last few decades. Please check their website for the construction schedule.
Where to find them
Bodestraße 1-3, Berlin, 10178, Germany
Were you here recently? Let us know how it went!
Neue Nationalgalerie
Neue Nationalgalerie
Why we like it
The last building designed by Mies van der Rohe, this museum houses 20th-century art and sculpture. The building itself is an international treasure.
Where to find them
Potsdamer Str. 50, Berlin, 10785, Germany
Were you here recently? Let us know how it went!
Jewish Museum
Jewish Museum
Why we like it
A must-see museum in Berlin. The Liebskind designed new wing is mainly focused on the Holocaust and is designed to be disorienting. The complex tells the full history of the Jewish people over millenia.
Where to find them
Lindenstraße 9-14, Berlin, 10969, Germany
Were you here recently? Let us know how it went!
Gemäldegalerie
Gemäldegalerie
Why we like it
Housing a treasure trove of Old Master paintings by Rembrandt, Vermeer, and Caravaggio, the Gemäldegalerie’s origins can be traced back to the Kunstkammer (Art Chamber) of the Electors of Saxony in Dresden, founded by Augustus I of Saxony in 1560.
Where to find them
Matthäikirchplatz, Berlin, 10785, Germany
Were you here recently? Let us know how it went!
Boros Collection
Boros Collection
Why we like it
BOOK AHEAD OF TIME for this reservations-only art museum in an above-ground bunker built in 1941 during WWII. One of the most interesting art museum experiences we’ve had.
Where to find them
Reinhardtstraße 20, Berlin, 10117, Germany
Were you here recently? Let us know how it went!
Do Not Skip
If you only had to see three:
- Modern Masterpieces: Explore the cutting edge at the Hamburger Bahnhof, a former railway station turned museum of modern and contemporary art.
- Treasures of the Ancient World: History buffs will be mesmerized by the Pergamon Museum, which houses breathtaking artifacts from Mesopotamia, Babylon, and ancient Greece.
- A Timeless Collection: No art adventure in Berlin is complete without a visit to the Gemäldegalerie, a treasure trove of Old Master paintings.
Fueling Your Museum Marathon
Exploring Berlin’s museums can be an intellectually and emotionally enriching experience. But even the most enthusiastic art lover needs to refuel. Thankfully, Berlin’s culinary scene is as diverse and exciting as its museums. From Michelin-starred establishments to shockingly popular food trucks, the city offers a wide range of options. If you’re visiting from the US, you may feel as though you’re getting a good deal on your culinary adventures — better prices for better ingredients — go figure. Pro tip: do not tip beyond rounding up.
Our Recommendations
Ernst
Ernst
Why we like it
Nine seats, reserved tickets in advance, Japanese, an open kitchen, and lots of engagement make this an extraordinary experience.
Where to find them
Gerichtstraße 54, Berlin, 13347, Germany
Were you here recently? Let us know how it went!
Katz Orange
Katz Orange
Why we like it
Among our favorite, casual, buzzy restaurants in Berlin. The slow-roasted pork and lamb are the house specialties and are homey and full of flavor.
Where to find them
Bergstraße 22, Berlin, 10115, Germany
Were you here recently? Let us know how it went!
Trio
Trio
Why we like it
Opened by three passionate chefs (trio), this warm, modern dining room features elevated German food. The best fried chicken, potato, and cucumber salad, whole fish, and more. A community gathering place.
Where to find them
Linienstraße 13, Berlin, 10178, Germany
Were you here recently? Let us know how it went!
Otto
Otto
Why we like it
Storefront place with concrete walls and a great terrace. Minimal, slightly Nordic mall plates to share many of which feature produce from their own garden. This can be a place you visit frequently.
Where to find them
Oderberger Str. 56, Berlin, 10435, Germany
Were you here recently? Let us know how it went!
Goldener Hahn
Goldener Hahn
Why we like it
Neighborhood homemade Italian restaurant with a chalkboard menu that changes daily. Pre-pandemic this was cash-only so bring your Euros. Warm and friendly.
Where to find them
Pücklerstraße 20, Berlin, 10997, Germany
Were you here recently? Let us know how it went!
Sissi
Sissi
Why we like it
Michelin-starred fabulous find in Merano. The chef-owner created masterful dishes and may serve you too to have a chat about South Tyrol and your visit.
Where to find them
Via Galileo Galilei, 44, Merano , 39012, Italy
Were you here recently? Let us know how it went!
Tim Raue
Tim Raue
Why we like it
A phenomenal Asian-inspired 2 Michelin star restaurant often in the top 50 in the world. The Berlin-born chef has been featured on Chef’s Table. The environment is warm and mid-century modern. An absolute treat to return to this restaurant a number of times.
Where to find them
Rudi-Dutschke-Straße 26, Berlin, 10969, Germany
Were you here recently? Let us know how it went!
Shiori
Shiori
Why we like it
The best Japanese restaurant in Berlin. Eat an omakase menu (tasting) at a long counter and revel in the polish and freshness of the plating and ingredients.
Where to find them
Max-Beer-Str. 13, Berlin, 10119, Germany
Were you here recently? Let us know how it went!
Mogg
Mogg
Why we like it
Located in a former school for Jewish girls, this deli/cafe is perfect for lunch. Homemade pastrami, reubens, shakshuka. Yum.
Where to find them
Auguststraße 11-13, Berlin, 10117, Germany
Were you here recently? Let us know how it went!
Hamburger Bahnhof
Hamburger Bahnhof
Why we like it
Serving as a train station beginning in 1846, this contemporary art museum took over the building in 1996. There are always interesting exhibitions and it’s always worth a look when in Berlin. The cafe and bookstore are always amazing.
Where to find them
Invalidenstraße 50-51, Berlin, 10557, Germany
Were you here recently? Let us know how it went!
Helmut Newton Foundation Museum
Helmut Newton Foundation Museum
Why we like it
We’re huge fans of Helmut Newton – artist, commercial fashion photographer, and more. This Foundation was established just after his death in LA in 2003.
Where to find them
Im Museum für Fotografie, Jebensstraße 2, Berlin, 10623, Germany
Were you here recently? Let us know how it went!
Pergamon Museum
Pergamon Museum
Why we like it
Built between 1910-1930, this houses one of the world’s best collections of Near East and Islamic art. It’s been expanded and renovated over the last few decades. Please check their website for the construction schedule.
Where to find them
Bodestraße 1-3, Berlin, 10178, Germany
Were you here recently? Let us know how it went!
Neue Nationalgalerie
Neue Nationalgalerie
Why we like it
The last building designed by Mies van der Rohe, this museum houses 20th-century art and sculpture. The building itself is an international treasure.
Where to find them
Potsdamer Str. 50, Berlin, 10785, Germany
Were you here recently? Let us know how it went!
Jewish Museum
Jewish Museum
Why we like it
A must-see museum in Berlin. The Liebskind designed new wing is mainly focused on the Holocaust and is designed to be disorienting. The complex tells the full history of the Jewish people over millenia.
Where to find them
Lindenstraße 9-14, Berlin, 10969, Germany
Were you here recently? Let us know how it went!
Gemäldegalerie
Gemäldegalerie
Why we like it
Housing a treasure trove of Old Master paintings by Rembrandt, Vermeer, and Caravaggio, the Gemäldegalerie’s origins can be traced back to the Kunstkammer (Art Chamber) of the Electors of Saxony in Dresden, founded by Augustus I of Saxony in 1560.
Where to find them
Matthäikirchplatz, Berlin, 10785, Germany
Were you here recently? Let us know how it went!
Boros Collection
Boros Collection
Why we like it
BOOK AHEAD OF TIME for this reservations-only art museum in an above-ground bunker built in 1941 during WWII. One of the most interesting art museum experiences we’ve had.
Where to find them
Reinhardtstraße 20, Berlin, 10117, Germany
Were you here recently? Let us know how it went!
Pair It With
- Book: Man’s Search for Meaning by Viktor E. Frankl. This powerful memoir by a psychotherapist and Holocaust survivor explores themes of resilience and the importance of finding meaning in life, resonating deeply with Berlin’s tumultuous history.
- TV Show: Babylon Berlin. Observe the decadent and dangerous world of Weimar Republic Berlin in this gripping period drama. The show’s meticulous attention to detail brings the city’s vibrant art scene and political struggles to life.
- Music: Listen to the Hebrides Overture, a poetic orchestral piece by Felix Mendelssohn, a renowned composer who spent his formative years in Berlin. Though inspired by a trip to Scotland, the overture reflects the youthful energy and courageous spirit that pervaded Berlin’s artistic circles during Mendelssohn’s time. The Hebrides Overture’s evocative melodies and superb orchestration offer a glimpse into the musical mastery that shaped the early Romantic period. (Preferably check out this recording by Berlin Philharmoniker under Karajan 💔)
Article by
Jason Claire
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