CityBuddy
East Side Gallery (Berlin Wall - East Side Gallery)
Best time to visit
Go early on weekdays to avoid crowds and catch soft photographic light, or late afternoon for warmer tones; summer weekends are busiest.
Budget tips
Free to visit, no admission required; guided tours and audio guides cost extra, so explore independently to save money.
Recommended for
History buffs, Street art lovers, Photography enthusiasts, Casual walkers
Plan your visit
30-45 min
About
Quick facts: Bright splashes of paint run along 1.3 kilometers of concrete, where over a hundred murals painted by artists from around the world turn a former barrier into a sprawling open-air gallery. Visitors pause to photograph weathered brushstrokes and a famous painted kiss, while ongoing conservation efforts race to preserve fragile artworks exposed to sun, rain, and graffiti.
Highlights: Stroll a 1.3 kilometer open-air gallery painted in 1990 by 118 artists from 21 countries, and you'll see Dmitri Vrubel's shocking mural of two leaders kissing, the black caption 'Mein Gott, hilf mir, diese tödliche Liebe zu überleben' still scrawled beneath bold reds and electric blues. After a controversial 2009 restoration that sparked protests, locals began the quirky habit of leaving small painted stones and whispered notes at particular panels, a tactile, colorful ritual visible in chips of spray paint, patched concrete, and fingerprints on the rails.
Insider tips
- Wear comfortable shoes, the full stretch is about 1.3 km and pavement can be uneven.
- Photograph the 'Fraternal Kiss' near Ostbahnhof early morning to avoid crowds and reflections.
- Avoid touching or leaning on murals, conservation work and fresh paint are common.
- Combine the walk with a stop at Oberbaumbrücke for river views and watch for cyclists on the riverside path.
Where to Stay in Berlin
Selected by City Buddy based on guest reviews and proximity to top attractions
Search all hotels in BerlinPowered by agoda
Have you heard of free walking tours?
After traveling to 30+ countries, there's one thing I wish someone had told me from day one, and it completely changed how I experience new cities.
Free walking tours. Yes, actually free. No credit card needed. No catch.
Local guide, 2-3 hours
Major sights, hidden gems, local stories
100% tip-based
Guides earn only tips, so they give their absolute best
You tip what feels right
At the end, just tip whatever you feel is right
I've done these in dozens of cities and they've been the highlight of almost every trip. If you're visiting Berlin, Germany, do this on your first day. You'll thank me later.
More attractions in Berlin
Brandenburg Gate (Brandenburger Tor)
Reichstag Building (Reichstagsgebäude)
Berlin TV Tower (Fernsehturm Berlin)
Museum Island (Museumsinsel)
Most popular itineraries!
Browse trip plans created by other travelers
5 Jours à Berlin pour Amoureux de Culture et Nature en Famille
Découvrez Berlin à travers ses trésors culturels, ses espaces verts printaniers et des activités familiales adaptées pour une exploration à la fois enrichissante et ludique.
5 Jours à Berlin pour la Famille Curieuse et Active
Découvrez Berlin au printemps en famille avec des visites culturelles, des activités nature, et des trésors cachés pour tous les âges. Imprégnez-vous de l'histoire, explorez des parcs magnifiques, et vivez des expériences locales authentiques à un rythme confortable.
5-Day Berlin Family Adventure Blending Culture, History, and Nature
Experience Berlin's rich history, lively culture, and beautiful spring outdoors with your family through interactive museums, scenic parks, and guided tours designed for all ages.
5 Tage Berlin für budgetbewusste Entdecker im Frühling
Erlebe Berlins authentisches Flair mit kostenlosen Stadtführungen, Street Food, gemütlichen Hostels und spannenden lokalen Erlebnissen. Perfekt für Backpacker, die Berlin abseits der Touristenpfade entdecken wollen.