50 Instagram Worthy Photo Locations In Berlin
Looking for Instagram worthy photo locations in Berlin?
Where can I take cool photos? This is one of the most common questions for people visiting Berlin and fortunately, it’s an easy question to answer.
Pics or it didn’t happen right? When you travel you travel, most people not only want to document their personal journey but they usually want to take a couple of impressive photos for their Instagram feed.
Berlin has loads of cool photo locations all over the city! You can definitely take a chance to find that picture-perfect moment as you explore the city.
But if you want to do a little research before your trip to ensure that perfect snap, here are my best ideas for places to take photos in Berlin, Germany.
Instagram Worthy Landmarks
Many of Berlin’s top landmarks also offer a perfect place for a snap! Here are a few ideas:
1. Brandenburg Gate / Brandenburger Tor
While this one isn’t exactly a well-kept photo secret, it’s still hands down one of the best places to take a cool photo or video in Berlin. The beautiful old gate just can’t help it! It’s simply still a regal symbol of Berlin and its history.
However, getting a good shot here presents its challenges. For one, Pariser Platz is almost always overcrowded during the summer months. (The truly dedicated will take multiple photos and use Photoshop to remove any unwanted guests!)
The sunset hour is especially magic for photos here. But you might also consider visiting at night! The lights stay on from dusk till dawn so if you’re inspired to get your shot during the night, go for it!
Address: Pariser Platz, 10117 (Mitte)
2. Oberbaum Bridge / Oberbaumbrücke
Berlin’s most famous photogenic bridge crosses the river Spree and links the districts of Kreuzberg (former West Berlin) and Friedrichshain (former East Berlin).
For the best shot, take your photos from the Friedrichshain side. (Bonus points for visiting during the golden hour!)
Address: 10243 (Friedrichshain-Kreuzberg)
3. Berliner Dom / Berlin Cathedral
The Berlin Dom is a must-see on Museum Island. Its striking Neo-Renaissance architecture looks great from almost any angle. But for a unique perspective, capture the cathedral from the Vera-Brittain-Ufer pathway, framing it with the “Three Girls One Boy” statues. Book a ticket to go inside to get photos of gargoyles and architecture from the top.
Address: Am Lustgarten, 10178 (Mitte)
4. Reichstag Building / Reichstagsgebäude
The Reichstag is undoubtedly the most important political building in Germany. Located right next to the Brandenburg Gate, it’s a must-see for every visitor of Berlin. Pop around any time to snap a pic of the outside.
However, the interior of the glass dome on top offers some spectacular photo opportunities of its own, including the Foster Partners architecture or the stunning views overlooking the city. But you can’t go up there spontaneously! Book your free ticket online ahead of time to gain access.
Address: Platz der Republik 1, 11011 (Tiergarten)
5. Museum Island / Museumsinsel
Beautiful Museum Island is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and home to a whopping five different museums (as you might have guessed from the name). But you don’t have to go inside the museums to take the perfect photo. The buildings are a mix of different architectural styles and the river Spree provides a stunning backdrop. Many of these buildings still show their bullet/shrapnel holes from the war which adds an extra layer of interest.
6. Checkpoint Charlie
The ever-busy Checkpoint Charlie is still one of the most iconic symbols of the Cold War. The former border crossing between East and West Berlin is now a bustling tourist attraction. The replica of the guardhouse and the soldiers in uniform are a must-see for every visitor. Try visiting early in the morning to avoid the large crowds.
Address: Friedrichstraße 43-45, 10117 (Kreuzberg)
7. Potsdamer Platz
Potsdamer Platz is a modern square in the heart of Berlin. The area was completely destroyed during World War II and was rebuilt in the 1990s. If you want a change from historical buildings, Potsdamer Platz is a great choice! I am particularly fond of the Mid-Century Modern S-Bahn station. It also looks great at sunset or at night.
Address: Potsdamer Platz, 10785 (Tiergarten)
8. Fernsehturm Berlin / TV Tower
The Fernsehturm Berlin is the tallest building in Germany but there’s no need to go to the top to get the perfect photo. This one looks great on your own or also framed in the background of other photos. (Perhaps in a photo of the nearby St. Marienkirche?) You can also book tickets to the top for views overlooking the city but it’s not worth it just for photos in my opinion.
Address: 1 Panoramastraße 1A, 10178 (Mitte)
9. Holocaust Memorial | Holocaust-Mahnmal | Memorial To The Murdered Jews Of Europe
While a powerful reminder of Germany’s dark history, the Holocaust Memorial also offers a place for incredible photos. But respect is the main priority here! The memorial is a place of silence and reflection so please respect the rules. Don’t walk on the monuments, do handstands, or take overly happy smiling photos.
Address: Cora-Berliner-Straße 1, 10117 (Mitte)
10. Schloss Charlottenburg | Palace Charlottenburg
Charlottenburg Palace is Berlin’s most opulent and historic palace, offering a stunning blend of Baroque and Rococo architecture. The palace’s exterior, with its grand facade and extensive colorful gardens, is an influencer or photographer’s dream. Book a ticket inside for stunning interior photos including the beautiful Green Room (some photo restrictions apply).
Address: Spandauer Damm 10-22, 14059 (Charlottenburg)
11. Sony Center
Tucked just behind Potsdamer Platz, the Sony Center is a modern architectural marvel that stands out against Berlin’s historical skyline. Its iconic glass roof and surrounding skyscrapers create a dynamic urban landscape.
Get your perfect shot under the dome highlighting interesting geometric patterns and reflections. Or head to the observation deck of the Kollhoff Tower across the street for a bird’s-eye view.
Address: Potsdamer Str. 2, 10785 (Tiergarten)
12. Gendarmenmarkt
(Note: the square is under heavy construction in 2024!) Gendarmenmarkt is one of Berlin’s most stunning squares, characterized by its harmonious architecture and historical significance. The French and German cathedrals, along with the Konzerthaus, create a regal atmosphere.
While this one’s gorgeous at any time of year, it’s especially beautiful during the annual Christmas market season.
Address: 10117 (Mitte)
13. Siegessaule | Victory Column in Tiergarten
For a breathtaking panoramic view of Berlin, climb the Victory Column in the heart of Tiergarten. The observation deck offers a stunning 360-degree perspective of the city, including iconic landmarks like the Brandenburg Gate and the TV Tower. Capture the sprawling park’s greenery and the city’s skyline in one frame. This one is especially gorgeous in the fall, when the surrounding Tiergarten turns orange and yellow.
Address: Großer Stern 1, 10557 (Tiergarten)
Cool Architectural Photo Locations
14. Berliner Philharmonie
The Berliner Philharmonie is an architectural masterpiece that’s positively begging to be on your Instagram grid. Designed by Hans Scharoun and completed in 1963, its vibrant yellow exterior and organic shape offer endless possibilities for photographers.
Address: Herbert-von-Karajan-Straße 1, 10785 (Tiergarten)
15. Tempodrom
The angular white peaks of the Tempodrom are remarkable by themselves but they also offer create a stunning backdrop for outfit photos and fashion photography.
Address: Möckernstraße 10, 10963 (Kreuzberg)
16. HKW – Haus der Kulturen der Welt
The HKW (House of World Cultures) is an outstanding example of modernist architecture, framed against the banks of the River Spree. Its iconic tent-like structure and reflective facade offer photographers a dynamic subject, for close-ups or background photos.
Address: John-Foster-Dulles-Allee 10, 10557 (Tiergarten)
17. Oscar Niemeyer Haus | Interbau Apartmenthaus
The neighbourhood (kiez) Hansaviertel boasts many modernist buildings but this one stopped me in my tracks the first time I stumbled across it. The Oscar Niemeyer Haus is a striking example of modernist architecture in Berlin’s Hansaviertel district. Designed by the renowned Brazilian architect, the building’s unique curves and cantilevered balconies create a dynamic and eye-catching facade.
Address: Altonaer Str. 6, 10557 (Moabit)
18. Olympiastadion Berlin
If you’re looking for a remaining piece of Nazi-era architecture, the Olympiastadion is a great example. Originally constructed for the 1939 Olympic games, the stadium is still in use today for sports and music events. Now devoid of its original Nazi imagery, the building still offers many opportunities for iconic photos.
Address: Olympischer Platz 3, 14053 (Charlottenburg)
19. Corbusierhaus | Unité d’Habitation of Berlin
The Corbusierhaus is a striking example of Brutalist architecture, showcasing the iconic architect’s vision of urban living. Part of Le Corbusier’s Unité d’Habitation, this was originally intended to be part of Hansaviertel but was relocated due to its size. If you love brut beton as much as I do, this will give you ample opportunity for the perfect shot (maybe even one that ends up on an Instgram account like @brutal_architecture?)
Address: Flatowallee 16, 14055 (Charlottenburg)
20. ICC | International/Internationales Congress Centrum Berlin
The ICC is definitely my favorite abandoned building in Berlin! It’s both a striking example of high-tech architecture, and so large you can see it from outer space! Its imposing scale and futuristic design offer a unique photographic opportunity. Sometimes the building opens for to the public so keep an eye out for that. For me, the interiors are way more interesting than the outside.
Address: Messedamm, 14055 (Charlottenburg)
21. The Washing Machine | Bundeskanzleramt
The Bundeskanzleramt, often nicknamed “The Washing Machine,” is a modern government building with a striking rectangular shape. Its glass facade reflects the surrounding cityscape, creating interesting photographic opportunities.
Capture the building’s geometric form and its interaction with the sky and water of the Spree River. The nearby government district offers additional architectural elements for your compositions.
Address: 1 Willy Brandt Avenue, 10557 (Tiergarten)
22. Haus Lemke | Mies van der Rohe Haus
Head out to Alt-Hohenschönhausen for another stunning example of Berlin’s modernist architecture. Built in the 1930’s, this house showcases the influence of modernist design that can still be seen in homes built today. It’s definitely not as grand as some of the other modernist buildings I’ve listed but definitely worth a trip if you’re a lover of architecture.
Address: Oberseestraße 60, 13053 (Alt-Hohenschönhausen)
23. Neue Nationalgalerie
Neue Nationalgalerie is well-worth a visit for the amazing art collections inside. However, the Mies van der Rohe-designed building is a favorite for both local and visiting photographers. It looks wonderful framed against a blue sky and even better at sunset. There are a number of sculptures on the surrounding platz that also make for great photos (including an Alexander Calder sculpture).
Address: Potsdamer Str. 50, 10785 (Tiergarten)
24. James Simon Galerie | James Simon Gallery
The David Chipperfeld-designed James Simon Galerie serves as the welcome center for all of Museum Island, as well as offering its’ own gallery. However, the front steps have become a popular choice for influencer outfit photos and it’s easy to see why! If you want your own perfect shot, come early in the morning to avoid the crowds and get the best light.
Address: Bodestraße, 10178 (Mitte)
Parks + Gardens
25. Tiergarten
There’s no question that the sprawling Tiergarten is the most photographed park in all of Berlin. Take your pick of statues, manicured flowerbeds, or lush vistas of trees. It’s best to visit during the late spring or summer months.
Address: 10557, 10785, 10787 (Mitte)
26. Viktoriapark
A waterfall in Berlin? Yup, you can find one at Viktoriapark in Kreuzberg. Take a snap in front of the water that cascades down the rocky slope, with green foliage and delicate flowers lining either side. (As of summer 2024, the waterfall is currently closed.)
Address: Katzbachstraße, 10965 (Kreuzberg)
27. Garden of the World | Gärten der Welt
Head out east to Marzahn’s Gärten der Welt to take some truly stunning photos. This garden offers an abundance of style from all around the world, from Japanese and Chinese to traditional. Don’t miss the mirror wall which offers an interesting place to play with your camera or phone!
Address: Blumberger Damm 44, 12685 (Marzahn)
28. Botanischer Garten | The Berlin-Dahlem Botanical Garden
If you’re after a tropical feel, head to the Botanical Garden in Dahlem. With a number of historic greenhouses and a diverse plant collection, this is the perfect location for nature and botanical photography.
Address: Königin-Luise-Straße 6-8, 14195 (Dahlem)
Graffiti + Urban
29. East Side Gallery
The East Side Gallery is one of the top tourist attractions in Berlin: a vibrant open-air art gallery featuring iconic murals and street art. It’s basically 1.3km of perfect Instagram opportunities so come prepared!
The most photographed mural by far is the “Fraternal Kiss” between Leonid Brezhnev and Erich Honecker (although you’ll have to wait your turn for a solo photo moment). You also don’t want to miss the colorful and expressive “Some Heads” piece by Thierry Noir.
Address: Mühlenstraße, 10243 (Friedrichshain)
30. Teufelsberg (the Devil’s Mountain)
Teufelsberg, the abandoned American radar station, is my favorite abandoned location in Berlin. It’s a truly unique and historic location Berlin experience, offering both a blend of urban decay and breathtaking panoramic views. This one’s best on a clear sunny day or in the fall when the surrounding Grunewald forest starts to turn orange and yellow.
Address: Teufelsseechaussee 10, 14193 (Charlottenburg)
31. RAW-Gelände
RAW-Gelände is a vibrant and eclectic urban space that represents old Berlin post-industrial aesthetic. (And it’s currently scheduled to be demolished so come take your pics now!) This urban makeover project currently comprises several clubs, bars, and restaurants. But it’s worth a photo walk through, even if you don’t plan your whole evening there.
Address: Revaler Str. 99, 10245 (Friedrichshain)
32. Mauerpark
Mauerpark is Berlin’s most popular flea market. Go here on a Sunday to search for treasure or to watch the popular karaoke. However, there’s also a huge active mural wall in the park, with an ever-changing array of street art on an old remnant of the Berlin wall. If you want to catch the artists in action, this is a great place to go.
Address: Bernauer Str. 63, 13355 (Prenzlauer Berg)
33. Steet Art In Kreuzberg
If you love street art in general, Kreuzberg is a great destination. As a former part of the US sector, the American influence is still felt here today. This is where hip-hop and graffiti culture entered German culture, and where they remain rooted today. Check out some of the most famous pieces of street art here including the largest stencil art piece in the world, Astronaut/Cosmonaut by the French street artist Ash or Nature Morte, by ROA.
34. Hackesche Höfe
While most of Hackesche Höfe is rather posh, this one alleyway is a street art dream. Take a walk down here to capture a few great shots or sit yourself down at a courtyard table at Cafe Cinema to enjoy the Berlin vibes.
Best Berlin Bars, Restaurants & Cafes For Photos
35. House of Small Wonder
If you want to hit up the one of the most Instagrammable spots for a coffee in the entire city, head to Johannisstraße street, The House of Small Wonder. Order yourself a Japanese-influenced breakfast and take some great photos on the iconic winding staircase.
Address: Auguststraße 11-13, 10117 (Mitte)
36. Coccodrillo
Coccodrillo’s over-the-top Fellini-style interiors certainly stand out from the average Berlin restaurant. Take some photos of your red booth and don’t forget to grab a photo on the staircase down to the toilets!
Address: Veteranenstraße 9, 10119 (Mitte)
37. The Greens
One of the most Instagrammable cafes in the city. The Greens is a beautiful coffee shop near Alexanderplatz and it’s every plant lover’s dream. Enjoy an iced latte while surrounded by green plants and relaxed decor. The food looks just as good as the cafe decor!
Address: Am Krögel 2, 10179 (Mitte)
38. Das Kleine Grosz Museum
This small museum in Schöneberg is a former gas station! But it’s a lot more picturesque than you might think. Head inside to the exhibit or just grab a coffee and take some beautiful photos of the exterior.
Address: Bülowstraße 18, 10783 (Schöneberg)
39. Klunkerkranich
The location of this rooftop bar might raise some eyebrows at first (on top of a non-descript Neukolln shopping center). But the proof it’s popularity is in the pudding. Expect to queue up and pay cover on the busy nights. However, it’s one of the most stunning places in the city to catch the sunset, along with a lot of quirky Berlin vibes.
Address: Karl-Marx-Straße 66, 12043 (Neukölln)
40. Markthalle Neun
Markthalle Neun is one of Berlin’s old market halls, and the home to the ever-popular Street Food Thursdays. That’s well-worth a visit but if you want the perfect photo, it might be better to visit in the morning. The market itself offers loads of opportunities for food photos and pretty architecture.
Addresss: Pücklerstraße 34, 10997 (Kreuzberg)
41. Distrikt Coffee
This coffee shop offers a mix of meat and vegan options, making it a suitable choice for various dietary preferences. While vegans have limited choices with only avocado toast and cake available, the café caters to them with plant-based milk alternatives for hot drinks. The atmosphere is described as modern and cute, with friendly staff, but some customers found the portion sizes and prices for avocado toast to be on the smaller and pricier side.
Address: Bergstraße 68, 10115 (Mitte)
42. Monkey Bar
Monkey Bar is where you head for sophisticated drinks, a funky urban vibe, and stunning views over Tiergarten and the Zoo. (In fact, it got it’s name from its proximity to the monkey enclosure!) This one’s fancy so prepare to spend on your cocktail of choice. However, the views and vibes are top-notch. (I suggest making a reservation!)
Address: Budapester Str. 40, 10787 (Charlottenburg)
43. Root
Root is a stylish and inviting restaurant that offers a global culinary journey. The stunning interior, reminiscent of a tropical oasis, creates a warm and welcoming atmosphere. Chef Roland Mary’s concept of combining high-quality ingredients with diverse flavors is executed flawlessly, resulting in dishes that are both visually appealing and incredibly delicious. From the fresh and vibrant salads to the expertly cooked meats and seafood, every bite is a delight. The dessert menu is equally impressive, with standout options like the rich Madagascar chocolate. Root is a must-visit for food lovers seeking a memorable dining experience.
Address: Monbijoustraße 11, 10117 (Mitte)
44. Cafe Always Together
Now for something different! Cafe Always Together is Berlin’s first 2D cafe–and so popular it just opened its second location. Go here for some seriously head scratching photo opportunities as well as the delicious cronuts.
Addresses: Pücklerstraße 34, 10997 (Mitte) & Marburger Str. 17 (Charlottenburg)
45. Cafe Am Neuen See
Cafe Am Neuen See is one of my favorite locations to bring out-of-towners–and it’s easy to see why. This picturesque relaxed establishment is one part cafe and one part biergarten. Take your drinks at the communal tables or head inside for something more formal. However, it’s the pond (“see”) that’s the real star of the show. Rent one of the row boats for the ultimate Instagram photo moment.
Address: Lichtensteinallee 2, 10787 (Tiergarten)
Best U-Bahn Stations For Photos
One of the most charming things about Berlin is the interesting designs of the U-bahn stations. No cookie cutter corporate boringness here! Each one boasts a different color palette, style, and even font. The Charlottenberg stations are particularly pretty IMO but you can find gems all over the city. Here’s a short list?
- Hackescher Markt
- Museum Island
- Schlesisches Tor
- Klosterstraße
- Märkisches Museum
- Fehrbelliner Platz
- Alexanderplatz
- Potsdamer Platz
- Eberswalder Straße
- Wittenburgplatz
- Potsdamer Platz
Perfect Berlin Moment Shot Locations
- The Fraternal Kiss / East Side Gallery
- The World Clock with The TV Tower In The Background
- A Yellow Train Passing Over Oberbaumbrucke
- Sunset from Elsenbrücke looking toward the Molecule Man sculpture
- Landwehrkanal looking toward Club der Visionaere
Want more? Check out our post about the top 10 weirdest places to visit in Berlin or 10 best things to do in Berlin.
