Berlin is world-famous for history, art, and fashion. Many tourists come here for the Brandenburg Gate and the famous Fernsehturm but wait…there’s so much more to explore and discover. From creepy, abandoned places to surprising historical places – Berlin’s got it all! In this blog, we’ve compiled the 10 best-hidden Gems in Berlin.
Berlin’s hidden story unfolds here:
- Spreepark
- Subterranean Berlin
- Monster Kabinett
- Pfaueninsel
- Teufelsberg
- Berlin’s tiniest Disco
- Bockwindmühle Marzahn
- Buddhistisches Haus
- Humbolthain Flak Tower
- Weissensee Abandoned Children’s Hospital
1. Spreepark
In 1969 the Soviets built an amusement park in the East of Berlin. Fully equipped with all kinds of rides, the park closed in 2002 and was left to rot. The park is open to the public today; sadly, many attractions have been removed due to safety issues. The Ferris Wheel remains in its eerie glory overlooking the park. If you’re interested in the history of this unique Berlin hidden gem, you can also book tours for 5€ online.
2. Subterranean Berlin
Like many European cities, Berlin’s underground tunnels tell many fascinating stories. You can visit bunkers, abandoned subway stations, air raid shelters, and tunnels used for smuggling between Eastern and Western Germany. You need to book tickets for tours in advance: Tickets cost around 15€, and tours take about 90 Minutes. Book a tour here!
3. Monster Kabinett
How about some creepy steampunk monsters to freak you out? If you weren’t entirely convinced yet, Berlin is weird, and so are its hidden gems! This is a must-visit if you’re into some quirky art and creepy performances.
4. Pfaueninsel
After so much creepy exploring, you might need some nature to calm your mind. Visit the Pfaueninsel (“peacock island”) close to Potsdam. This island features free-roaming peacocks and unique ivory-colored buildings. Visit the island by either taking a car to the island or by ferry from the Wannsee S-Bahn Station.
5. Teufelsberg
Did you know that there are hills in Berlin? Granted, they are primarily artificial; nevertheless, they feature incredible architecture. The Teufelsberg (‘devil’s mountain’) is an old NSA listening outpost built from the rubble of World War II. There’s no entrance fee, and walking around Grunewald is always an excellent idea. Views from here are stunning, and you’ll feel the history here.
6. Berlin’s tiniest discos
There are a couple of very unique discos around Berlin; they play music but don’t serve drinks. Why not, you wonder? Because these discos have been built in old and abandoned telephone boxes. You’ll find one at Mercedes Platz and the RAW Gelände. Check them out!
7. Bockwindmühle Marzahn
A true Berlin Hidden Gem that not too many people know about. It might be a surprise, but the mill is entirely functional and still used to produce grains for local bread. Try some local bread, visit the museum or take some photos of this unique structure in the heart of Berlin. You can find more info about the mill, the bread, and events here.
8. Buddhistisches Haus
This Buddhist Temple is the oldest of its kind in Europe and of Berlin’s hidden gems, which isn’t as known even by locals. You’ll have silence and serenity here to get in touch with yourself. Learn more about the temple here.
9. Humbolthain Flak Tower
This Bunker protected many civilians in Berlin during World War II and also served as a defence tower against air raids targeting Berlin. You can book a tour with the Berlin Underground tour guides and learn more about the history of this hidden gem.
10. Weissensee Abandoned Children’s Hospital
Are you ready to have a really, really creepy experience while in Berlin? The abandoned Children’s Hospital in Weissensee is famous among lost places enthusiasts. The hospital was closed in 1997, and many instruments and furniture were left behind. This is one of Berlin’s hidden gems that will make your skin crawl. Visit if you dare.
