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For Berliners, Easter is synonymous with spring: the long weekend marks the end of a typically bleak winter, and the mood in the city is joyous. Easter in Berlin is usually spent with friends and family, marked by traditions like an Easter egg hunt and a bonfire in the large serene park Britzer Garten, visiting markets in Mitte and Charlottenburg, and leisurely brunches. From heading to Wannsee for an icy dip in the lido (an outdoor swimming pool) to dancing all weekend at a world-class club, here’s your roundup of how to spend Easter in Berlin.

Everything you need to know about Easter in Berlin

Easter traditions: Easter markets, egg hunts, and Osterfeuer (Easter bonfires)
Best free Easter activity: Soaking up the jovial atmosphere at an Easter market
Key Easter dates: Good Friday and Easter Monday are public holidays in Berlin, so most shops will be closed (shops are usually closed on Sundays, so expect the same for Easter Sunday too)
Average temperatures around Easter: Spring in Berlin can be chilly. Expect temperatures of around 50-60 F (10-15 C) around Easter

Have you ever wondered what a Berliner craves at the dinner table? You'll soon find out. Learn about what to do in Berlin and what to eat with this guide to local cuisine and famous foods. From humble currywurst stalls to the city's favorite, the döner kebab, get to know Berlin's history by tasting its most popular food.

The best food in Berlin will depend on when you visit. If you're in Berlin in summer, it's all about street food and picnics with classic bagels or a Vietnamese salad. In winter, mouth-watering and soul-warming dishes of kartoffelpuffer are combined with a mug of feuerzangentasse, a hot punch with red wine.

From November to February, Berlin brims with festive cheer and cultural highlights. Among the best things to do in Berlin in winter are the famous Christmas markets, like Gendarmenmarkt, where the aroma of mulled wine and roasted almonds fills the air. Then, there’s Winterwelt am Potsdamer Platz, with ice skating, sledding, and food stalls. For art and culture lovers, Museum Island displays everything from ancient artifacts to European masterpieces, while the Berlin International Film Festival showcases the city’s creative side. Whether you’re planning a holiday getaway or a late-year city break, discover all the top things to do in Berlin in winter.

Berlin's best winter activities at a glance

The best places to find winter markets: Gendarmenmarkt and Alexanderplatz host popular Christmas markets with local crafts and seasonal treats.

The top things to do for kids and families visiting Berlin in winter: Explore the Winterwelt am Potsdamer Platz, a festive winter attraction featuring ice skating, a sledding hill, and food stalls.

Unique events in Berlin in winter: Experience the Berlin International Film Festival (Berlinale) in February and the New Year's Eve celebration at Brandenburg Gate.

Celebrate New Year’s Eve in Berlin with an epic firework show at landmarks like the Brandenburg Gate, or an elegant concert at Charlottenburg Palace. Berlin’s nightlife glows with rooftop parties, but even more so on NYE and during the holiday season. For a more active option, join the Pancake Run in Grunewald, or enjoy a cozy evening indoors to escape the intense street fireworks. For those travelling with children, explore Berlin’s family-friendly activities at Spandau Citadel. With its rich history, diverse cuisine, and festive atmosphere, there’s no shortage of things to do in Berlin on New Year’s Eve, making it a top destination to welcome the new year.

Everything you need to know about New Year’s Eve in Berlin

New Year’s Eve fireworks: The televised party and fireworks at the Brandenburg Gate is the largest celebration in the city.
Average temperatures at New Year’s Eve in Berlin: 34-39 F (1-3 C).
What to avoid on New Year’s Eve: If fireworks or crowds make you uncomfortable, avoid the area around Brandenburg Gate and Potsdamer Platz from 10:00 PM to 4:00 AM.
Best free New Year’s Eve activity: Enjoy the fireworks from a rooftop bar or join public celebrations around Potsdamer Platz.