13 weird and unusual things to do in Berlin
Our favourite weird stuff to check out in Berlin
Berlin has long been known as one of the most exciting and vibrant cities in Europe. From its lively nightlife to its world-class museums, there's something for everyone to enjoy. But if you're looking for something a bit different, then Berlin has plenty of weird and unusual attractions that will keep you busy. From spooky ghost tours to quirky art exhibitions, this city has it all. So if you're looking for an offbeat experience, here are the top 13 weird and unusual things to do in Berlin!
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Go and see a massive Soviet war memorial
Head to Treptower Park, one of the largest parks in Berlin, to see a giant Soviet war memorial. The impressive site commemorates the 80,000 Soviet soldiers who lost their lives in the Battle of Berlin in 1945. The structure features a tall obelisk with an eternal flame that stands on a large plaza surrounded by sculptures and bas-reliefs that depict scenes from the battle. It's a solemn place to remember the history of Berlin and a must-see for anyone interested in its past.
See Berlin’s parks with ease on the city’s hop on hop off tourist bus
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Visit the Mauerpark flea market
For a truly unique shopping experience, head to the Mauerpark Flohmarkt. This weekly flea market in Berlin's Prenzlauer Berg neighborhood is an eclectic mix of local vendors, vintage items, and hidden gems.
Whether you're looking for antique furniture or quirky souvenirs, you're sure to find something interesting here. Live music, tasty snacks, and street performers add to the lively atmosphere. With its relaxed atmosphere and friendly locals, a visit to the Mauerpark Flohmarkt is an experience you won't soon forget.
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Go on a Berlin ghost hunt
Take an exciting journey into the haunted side of Berlin and explore its spooky history with a ghost hunt. With guided ghost tours in some of the city’s most haunted areas, you can learn about the dark secrets of the past while encountering some of its supernatural entities. Join experienced paranormal investigators and explore some of the city's most eerie spots and discover what lurks in the shadows. Be prepared to be scared as you discover dark secrets, witness unexplained phenomena and uncover hidden tales of the supernatural.
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See art in an abandoned train yard at Raw Gelände
Photo credit: Nelson Minar / Flickr
Raw Gelände is an abandoned train yard in Berlin and has been taken over by artists. It’s filled with street art and graffiti – some of which you can paint yourself. It’s a great place to explore and to take pictures of the ever-changing art scene. There’s a lot of history here, as well as interesting and exciting projects that have taken place. It’s also a great place to meet up with other creative people, or just wander around and marvel at the creative works. Raw Gelände is definitely one of the most unique and unusual things to do in Berlin!
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Visit the abandoned Spreepark amusement park
Spreepark is an abandoned amusement park in Berlin, filled with eerie relics from the days of the German Democratic Republic. Although the park closed in 2002, it remains a popular spot for urban explorers. Take a stroll through the abandoned rides and attractions, from the vintage Ferris wheel to the water chutes and roller coasters. It's an eerie sight – one that will leave you feeling both fascinated and a little bit spooked. For those brave enough to explore at night, there are even ghost tours available.
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Explore a giant abandoned flak tower
The Flak towers were massive, heavily fortified structures used during WWII by the Nazi regime. One such tower still stands in Berlin, located in the former British Sector of the city. It stands seven stories high and was used as an air defense system during the war. Now abandoned and empty, it is a fascinating place to explore, with a dark and haunting atmosphere. Visitors can climb up to the top to experience a unique view of Berlin, and if you’re brave enough, dare to explore the eerie tunnels below. Exploring the Flak Tower is one of the strangest and most surreal experiences you can have in Berlin.
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Climb the Teufelsberg
Photo credit: Martin Hearn / Flickr
The Teufelsberg is a former Cold War-era listening station nestled within the Grunewald forest, making it one of the best weird and unusual things to do in Berlin. The hill is an artificial one built from the rubble left behind by WWII and stands at 120 meters high.
It's now home to a graffiti-covered abandoned structure that was once used by the DDR and Soviet Union to listen to communication in West Berlin and West Germany. Those feeling brave enough can also take the challenge and climb to the top to get stunning views of the city. So grab some sturdy shoes and explore the remains of this unique piece of history!
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Visit the David Hasselhoff Museum
If you're looking for something truly unique and strange, check out the David Hasselhoff Museum in Berlin. Here, fans of the actor and musician can explore his life and career through an array of memorabilia, including toys, movie posters, clothing, props, and more. Whether you're a die-hard fan or just curious about what it's like to be inside a museum dedicated to Hasselhoff, this is definitely worth a visit. Step inside and relive some of his most iconic moments as you take in the full breadth of his stardom.
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Take a dip at the Badeschiff
If you’re looking for a unique swimming experience, why not take a dip in the Badeschiff, an outdoor public pool set on a river boat! It’s perfect for swimming, lounging and enjoying the stunning view of the Berlin skyline. The shallow area of the pool is perfect for little ones and during the summer months you can even order food and drinks from the bar. There’s no better way to cool off on a hot day than with a swim in the Badeschiff!
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Go underground with Berlin Unterwelten
For a unique underground experience, visit Berlin Unterwelten. This organization offers tours that take you to the former air-raid bunkers of the Second World War. You can explore the remains of this vast underground network and hear stories from knowledgeable guides. Tours are available in English and German and explore parts of the city not usually seen by tourists. Experience a part of history while exploring this abandoned war-time relic and gain insight into the wartime spirit that still lingers.
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Go back to the Soviet era at the DDR Museum
Image credit: DDR Museum, Berlin
If you're looking to get a feel of life during the Soviet era, then visiting the DDR Museum is an absolute must. The museum showcases everyday objects from the era, including cars, clothes, and even furniture.
You'll also have the opportunity to explore the GDR's political history, as well as gain insights into everyday life for its citizens. From posters to models and educational games, you'll get to experience a variety of exhibits that will give you a glimpse of what it was like to live under the rule of the Communist Party of East Germany.
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Explore an abandoned airport
For a unique, out-of-the-ordinary experience in Berlin, explore the abandoned airport at Tempelhof. Opened in 1923, it was one of the world’s first airports and was also the site of the famous Berlin Airlift. Today, it is a public park where visitors can wander among the eerie, derelict airport buildings.
The once-bustling airport has been turned into an urban wilderness, with open fields and paths surrounded by tall trees. Stroll around the old runways and taxiways, taking in the atmosphere of this strange, yet captivating, place.
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Visit the Tajikistan Tearoom
For an authentic taste of the Tajikistan culture, head to the Tajikistan Tearoom. This cozy café serves up delicious traditional food and drinks from Tajikistan. Originally given as a gift to Berlin during the Soviet era, the pavillion has been transferred from its original location in Leipzig to the capital.
The tea is brewed in a special samovar, giving it an earthy flavor. In addition to their tasty drinks and meals, the cafe also has various handcrafted items for sale. From handmade jewelry to home decor, you can find something truly unique.
More interesting things to do in Berlin
Take a break from the hustle and bustle of the city and explore some of the city's nature spots, like the Volkspark Friedrichshain. Or head over to Kreuzberg and discover its vibrant street art.
Take a ride on the legendary U-Bahn or take a tour of Berlin's famous breweries. Visit the East Side Gallery and admire its graffiti murals, or take a stroll down Kurfürstendamm for some of the best shopping in town.
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