Parisier Platz

The spectacular Unter den Linden boulevard comes to an end at Pariser Platz, an enormous public square that attracts crowds of tourists, day and night. Survey the stately architecture of the bordering buildings and gaze up at the colossal columns of one of the most recognizable structures in the world: the Brandenburg Gate.

Covering an area of almost 8 acres (1.5 hectares), this square is one of the most famous parts of the city. Prior to reunification, it was part of the city’s infamous “death zone” on the east side and remained out of bounds to regular citizens until the Berlin Wall came down in 1989. Come here today and find the area swarmed with camera-toting tourists.

Stroll around the border of the square past the elegant surrounding buildings. Look for the historic Hotel Adlon, one of the grand old hotels of Europe, as well as various foreign embassies and bank headquarters interspersed with restaurants and chain coffee shops.

Despite its appearance on countless postcards and images, the gigantic Brandenburg Gate is a lot more breathtaking to behold in person. Pass beneath its archways and emerge at the edge of the vast urban parkland of Tiergarten, which stretches into West Berlin and beyond.

Consider visiting Madame Tussauds Berlin, just east of the square, to see wax models of well-known figures. For something a little more high-brow, enter the Akademie der Künste (Academy of Arts) on the south side of the square. The academy hosts exhibitions as well as concerts, debates, talks, dance performances and other cultural events.

Pariser Platz is a good starting point for exploring the western part of the city. Popular attractions, including the Reichstag building and the Memorial to the Murdered Jews of Europe, can be found nearby.

Pariser Platz is best reached by public transportation. Ride the U-Banh to the Berlin Brandenburger Tor station.