Germany
ByRenee Hannes
So you’ve found yourself in Berlin on a lazy Sunday, huh? Are you wondering what to do in Berlin on a Sunday? You’re in luck!
While most shops are closed, museums, restaurants and other tourist attractions remain open.
While most shops may be closed, there are still plenty of places to visit in Berlin on Sunday. Whether you’re eager to explore historical landmarks, indulge in delicious street food, or simply relax at one of the city’s many parks.
A Berlin Sunday is best spent at a leisurely pace. It’s about quality time alone or with others.
After spending a few Sundays in Berlin during my first month of living here and getting accustomed to where to go in Berlin on a Sunday, it’s now my favourite day of the week!
This what to do Sunday in Berlin guide will have you wishing every day was a Sunday. It will cover Berlin Sunday shopping so you know which Berlin store open on a Sunday.
Table of Contents
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25 Things to Do in Berlin on a Sunday
1. Linger Over a Delicious Brunch
Kickstart your Berlin Sunday with a delightful brunch. And, do Berliners ever love their Sunday brunch!
Most brunch restaurants, like all-day breakfast at Benedicts come with long lines. So be sure to make a reservation.
Whether you choose a classic English-style Berlin breakfast or the very popular pancakes, Berlin brunch restaurants will not disappoint.
2. Browse a Flea Market
Berliners love their flea markets! So much so there’s one in every district. Immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of the Mauerpark Flea Market in Mitte, which is a Berlin institution.
Every Sunday, this market comes alive with a diverse array of stalls selling everything from vintage clothing and antiques to local handicrafts. Don’t miss the open-air karaoke at the amphitheatre too for a truly unique Berlin experience.
Other popular flea markets in Berlin include:
- Arkonaplatz (Mitte): small, but charming with good quality antiques and furniture
- Bode Museum (Mitte): a must for book lovers and history buffs, as well as art all rolled into one
- Boxhagener Platz (Friedrichshain): with its great location of nearby cafes, this is a fun one to add to combine market at brunch
- Fehrbelliner Platz (Wilmersdorf): go here for the art promenade, where artists have a reserved spot to showcase their work
- Kranoldplatz (Neukölln): a real neighbourhood feel with vintage books, clothes and household items
- Marheinekeplatz (Kreuzberg): this flea market offers it all from vintage to secondhand records, clothing, household and more
- Ostbahnhof (Friedrichshain): treasure hunters go here, with its plethra of aniques
- Rathaus Schöneberg (Schöneberg): a large market under the steps of the town hall offering a wide range of thrift to vintage items to household items
- Straße des 17. Juni (Charlottenburg): the oldest flea market in the city and chock full of some of the best antiques, glassware and collectables
3. Take a Day Trip
Dedicate your Sunday to a captivating day trip to Potsdam, a picturesque city just a short train ride away from Berlin.
Known for its stunning palaces and lush gardens, Potsdam is a UNESCO World Heritage site. Visit the opulent Sanssouci Palace, stroll through the idyllic gardens, and marvel at the historic Dutch Quarter.
4. Go to a Museum
Spend your Sunday exploring one of the 170 museums in Berlin. There are museums focused on history, art, design, technology and those that children love. The most famous can be found at Museum Island. This UNESCO World Heritage site houses five world-class museums, including the iconic Pergamon Museum and the Neues Museum.
The first Sunday of the month is free of charge for many museums in Berlin!But it does mean they are busy.
Take advantage of the Welcome to Berlin Museum pass to save on all the attractions and museums in the city.
5. Admire Charlottenburg Palace
Step back in time with a visit to Charlottenburg Palace, a stunning Baroque palace that exudes regal elegance.
Explore its opulent chambers, beautifully landscaped gardens, and exquisite porcelain cabinet. Don’t miss the chance to stroll through the palace’s picturesque park or witness the changing of the guard, a true spectacle.
6. Stroll the Spree River
Enjoy a leisurely Sunday afternoon by the serene Spree River. Take a scenic boat tour, rent a paddleboat, or simply relax along the riverbanks. It’s one of the reasons why I fell in love with the city and think Berlin’s worth visiting.
Many waterfront cafes and bars offer picturesque views and refreshments, making it a perfect spot to unwind.
7. Enjoy Kaffee und Kuchen
Embrace a cherished German tradition by indulging in “Kaffee und Kuchen” (coffee and cake).
Berlin’s cozy cafes offer a delightful variety of cakes, from the old favourites of Black Forest gateau to apple strudel. Cheesecake shops are very popular too! Savour a slice alongside a rich cup of coffee at a charming cafe, and soak in the relaxed Sunday atmosphere.
8. Relax in Berlin’s Parks and Gardens
Join the locals and spend your Sunday exploring Berlin’s lush green spaces. From the sprawling Tiergarten to the oldest Berlin park Volkspark Friedrichshain, the city is adorned with vast parks.
You can enjoy a stroll, have a picnic, bring your dog, or even rent a paddleboat at Treptow on one of the serene lakes.
Berlin is also known for its beautiful gardens. From the favourite Berlin-Dahlem Botanical Garden to the Gardens of the World, Berlin is a paradise for garden enthusiasts.
It’s the perfect way to unwind and escape the busy Berlin city centre.
9. See Some Animals at the Berlin Zoo
Spend quality time with the family at the Berlin Zoo, one of the oldest and most beloved zoological gardens in the world. Opened in 1844, the 35 hectares is located in Berlin’s Tiergarten.
Home to over 20,000 animals, including giant pandas, elephants, and polar bears, it’s a fascinating journey through the animal kingdom right in the heart of Berlin. Don’t miss out on seeing one of Germany’s largest aquariums too.
Tierpark Berlin is a smaller and the second zoo in Berlin. It’s located on the former grounds of Friedrichsfelde Palace.
10. Visit the Holocaust Memorial
Pay your respects and reflect on history by visiting the Holocaust Memorial in Berlin on a Sunday.
This poignant and sombre site, officially known as the Memorial to the Murdered Jews of Europe, consists of 2,711 concrete slabs arranged in a grid-like pattern.
As you walk through the labyrinthine paths between the towering slabs, the atmosphere becomes increasingly solemn, providing a powerful reminder of the tragic events of the Holocaust.
Beneath the memorial, you’ll find an informative visitor center with exhibits that offer deeper insights into the lives and stories of the victims.
11. Walk the Berlin Wall Trail
Discover history along the Berliner Mauerweg, a 160 km path tracing the former route of the Berlin Wall.
Walk or cycle along this poignant trail, passing remnants of the wall, watchtowers, and informative exhibits. It’s a meaningful way to reflect on Berlin’s divided past.
12. Sip a Beer at a Local Beer Garden
Experience Berlin’s vibrant beer garden culture. On a sunny Sunday, head to one of the city’s beloved beer gardens like Prater or Café am Neuen See.
Sip on a refreshing German beer and savour traditional Bavarian pretzels or famous currywurst in a friendly atmosphere.
13. Take a Walking Tour
Sunday is an ideal day to take a walking tour of Berlin! Consider joining a guided tour to see all the sights like Checkpoint Charlie while learning about the history of each one.
Alternatively, explore the city at your own pace, starting with a stroll through the historic streets of Mitte, where you’ll encounter landmarks like Brandenburg Gate, Unter den Linden Boulevard, and Museum Island.
A leisurely Sunday walk allows you to absorb the city’s unique character while uncovering hidden gems along the way.
14. Admire Some Street Art
Discover Berlin’s thriving street art scene. Wander through neighbourhoods like Kreuzberg and Friedrichshain, where vibrant murals and thought-provoking graffiti adorn the streets.
You can also opt for a street art tour to gain deeper insights into the city’s urban art culture.
15. Enjoy Nature in Grunewald
Escape the city’s hustle and bustle by venturing into Grunewald Forest. This sprawling woodland invites you to enjoy nature on a Sunday, whether you’re hiking, biking, or simply taking a serene walk along the picturesque Havel River.
Discover the tranquil Teufelsberg hill or explore the historic Grunewald Tower for panoramic views of the surrounding landscapes.
16. Visit Berlin Landmarks
On a Sunday in Berlin, explore some of the iconic sites like the Brandenburg Gate, Alexanderplatz, Berlin Cathedral, and Checkpoint Charlie.
Marvel at the remnants of the Berlin Wall, go underground and take a tour of the bunkers and tunnels and admire the grandeur of the Reichstag building.
17. Catch a Movie at an Open Air Cinema
As the sun sets, catch a movie under the stars at one of Berlin’s open-air cinemas, called Freiluftkino.
From historic venues like Freiluftkino Kreuzberg to the modern deck chairs at Friedrichshain’s Freiluftkino, you can enjoy diverse films while relishing the mild Berlin evenings.
18. Explore Berlin’s Neighbourhoods
Discover Berlin’s vibrant neighbourhoods, each with its own unique charm. Wander through the artistic and bohemian foodie streets of Kreuzberg, explore the hip boutiques of Prenzlauer Berg, and savour the multicultural flavours of Neukölln.
One of the most picturesque is Nikolai Quarter, Berlin’s oldest neighbourhood with its cobblestone streets and historic colourful buildings.
Choosing an unfamiliar neighbourhood to explore on a Sunday is a chance to soak up the local atmosphere, from bustling markets to cozy cafes.
19. Hang Out at Tempelhofer Feld
Experience the vastness of Tempelhofer Feld, a former airport turned urban park. Berliners flock here on Sundays for picnics, kitesurfing, and leisurely bike rides on the old runways. It’s also a great spot to bring your dog and let it run off-leash.
20. Gaze Out at a Viewpoint
Sundays are meant for scenic views. Seek out breathtaking views of Berlin from spots like the Berlin TV Tower, offering a 360-degree panorama of the city, or the Reichstag’s glass dome.
Or why not the Victory Column which offers a great view of Tiergarten Park?
Alternatively, ascend the Viktoriapark waterfall in Kreuzberg for a stunning view of Berlin’s skyline. Sunday is the ideal day to capture these mesmerizing vistas.
21. Go Schnaps Taste Testing
On Sundays, the iconic distillery of Mampe Schnaps opens its doors for tours and tastings. As you explore the historic facilities of Berlin’s oldest liquor manufacturer, you’ll learn about the time-honoured distillation techniques and the brand’s rich heritage dating back to 1831.
Whether you’re a connoisseur or simply curious this is a fun Sunday activity for adults. Prost!
22. Take a Drive in a Trabi
Experience a journey back in time by cruising through Berlin’s streets in a vintage Trabant, an iconic East German car from the Cold War era.
Sundays in Berlin offer lighter traffic, making it the perfect day to embark on this unique adventure. Drive past the popular Berlin sights including Potsdamer Platz, the Brandenburg Gate, the Berlin Cathedral, the Rotes Rathaus, the TV Tower, the East Side Gallery, the Oberbaum Bridge, and Checkpoint Charlie.
You even get a Trabi driver’s license as a souvenir.
23. Enjoy a Relaxing Spa Day
For a blissful and rejuvenating Sunday in Berlin, consider indulging in a day at one of the city’s renowned spas.
Berlin boasts a variety of wellness havens where you can unwind and pamper yourself. Whether you choose the tranquillity of liquid soundscapes in Liquidrom, the Finnish saunas and rooftop relaxation areas at Vabali Spa, or the historic charms of Neptunbad, you’re in for a treat. It’s actually a great way to beat jet lag too!
Enjoy a soothing massage, soak in hot tubs, and take advantage of diverse sauna experiences. Berlin’s spa culture is a perfect escape from the daily grind, allowing you to unwind in luxurious surroundings and emerge refreshed, making it an ideal way to spend a tranquil Sunday in the city.
24. Head to Brandenburg Lakes
Escape the urban hustle of Berlin by heading to the serene Brandenburg Lakes on a day trip by train. On a Sunday, these tranquil waters and surrounding woodlands beckon nature enthusiasts and water lovers alike.
Whether you’re kayaking, swimming, or simply enjoying a peaceful lakeside picnic, the Brandenburg Lakes offer a refreshing break from the city’s pace. Don’t miss the opportunity to take a leisurely hike or bike ride along the well-maintained trails.
25. Eat Schnitzel
Don’t you wish every day was a Sunday now? I knew you would! So, this is the last idea I have for you to do on a Sunday. Eat Schnitzel! There are some amazing traditional German restaurants all over the city that promise to have the best schnitzel in town.
But there is one that offers a Sunday schnitzel special – so how can you turn that down? Head to Schnitzelei with 3 locations in Mitte, Charlottenburg, and Wilmersdorf. Enjoy the vegan oyster mushroom schnitzel or the Wiener-style schnitzel for only €16.61.
An Ideal What to Do Sunday in Berlin Itinerary
My ideal Sunday 1-day itinerary is a perfect blend of culture, relaxation and food.
Morning – 9:00 AM: Explore Mauerpark Flea Market Begin your Sunday adventure at Mauerpark Flea Market, an iconic Berlin experience. Roam through stalls brimming with vintage treasures, handmade crafts, and delicious street food. You’re bound to get caught up in the lively atmosphere, and if you’re feeling adventurous, join the open-air karaoke session for a taste of Berlin’s vibrant spirit.
Late Morning – 11:00 AM: Brunch at a Local Café Head to a cozy café for a delightful Berlin-style brunch. Consider Café Anna Blume in Prenzlauer Berg for their signature pancakes or The Barn for artisanal coffee and pastries.
Early Afternoon – 1:00 PM: Visit a Museum Visit one of Berlin’s smaller world-class museums or opt for the Berlinische Galerie to see some contemporary and modern art.
Mid Afternoon – 3:30 PM: Biergarten or Kaffee und Kuchen Choose between two quintessentially Berlin experiences for your late afternoon. If you’re in the mood for a refreshing beer, head to Prater Garten, Berlin’s oldest beer garden. Alternatively, indulge in the traditional “Kaffee und Kuchen” (coffee and cake) at Café Einstein Stammhaus.
Late-Afternoon – 5:00 PM: Relax at Tiergarten Park Take a stroll or rent a bike to explore the serene beauty of Tiergarten Park. Find a quiet spot by the lake, and unwind beneath the trees on a bench. This urban oasis is perfect for a lazy Sunday afternoon.
Early Evening – 6:30 PM: Explore Kreuzberg Venture into the vibrant neighborhood of Kreuzberg, known for its multicultural atmosphere and street art. Explore Görlitzer Park, admire the East Side Gallery, and discover hidden gems along Oranienstraße.
Dinner – 8:00 PM: Dinner in Neukölln For dinner, explore the eclectic culinary scene of Neukölln. Visit a local eatery like Klunkerkranich, a rooftop bar and garden with stunning city views. Enjoy a variety of dishes while savouring the sunset and the Berlin skyline.
What is Open in Berlin on Sunday?
These businesses can open on Sundays, which some choose to open.
- Shops in train stations, airports and bus terminals
- Restaurants and food delivery
- Petrol stations
- Pharmacies (Apotheken)
- Spatis (similar to a convenience store)
- Bakeries
- Tourist attractions and souvenir shops
- Flea markets and art markets
- Museums
Yes, it’s true you will be hard-pressed to do any Berlin shopping on Sunday unless you find yourself near Alex, or Alexanderplatz. As one of the main city centres for Berlin, you will find some stores open, although they are mostly souvenir shops.
Personally, with so many wonderful things to do on a Sunday, skip this and enjoy some of the 25 ideas I gave you. Locals do all their shopping on Saturdays. If you go to Ku’Damm you will see many popping into and out of stores holding shopping bags.
As a Holidaymaker
As the sun sets on your perfect Sunday in this vibrant city, you’ll find that Berlin’s diverse offerings cater to every traveller’s desires.
For all your trip planning to Berlin made easy, visit my page where I have all of my articles in one convenient spot.
Renee Hannes
Creator, Founder of Dream Plan Experience
She specializes exclusively in European travel and crafting unforgettable day trips within her home province of Ontario, Canada.
She has been travelling to Europe for over 35 years and has lived abroad in Germany twice. Revisiting countries and exploring them extensively to create in depth travel itineraries, destination guides and helping travellers plan their trips to Europe through her customized services.
She also is a co-partner in a woman-led company that offers luxury retreats in Europe offering immersive cultural experiences.
