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Breitscheidplatz Berlin

4.6
·491k reviews·Berlin, Germany

A historic Berlin square, site of remembrance and vibrant events, featuring the iconic Kaiser Wilhelm Memorial Church.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Winter evenings

Festive Christmas market magic

CrowdHigh
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Great area around Breitscheidplatz

Breitscheidplatz Berlin

Best Time

Winter evenings

Festive Christmas market magic

CrowdHigh
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A historic Berlin square, site of remembrance and vibrant events, featuring the iconic Kaiser Wilhelm Memorial Church.

4.6
(491k reviews)

"A place of solemn reflection and festive cheer, Breitscheidplatz captures Berlin's resilience."

Vertical photo
TIP

Visit with Respect

Approach Breitscheidplatz with solemnity, recognizing its history as a site of remembrance. :pray:

Check Event Schedules

The square hosts various events, from protests to markets. Plan accordingly! :calendar:

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Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Kaiser Wilhelm Memorial Church

Kaiser Wilhelm Memorial Church

Adjacent to Breitscheidplatz

A poignant symbol of war and peace, its bombed-out spire stands as a stark reminder.

Christmas Market

Christmas Market

Breitscheidplatz

A festive winter wonderland with stalls, food, and a lively atmosphere.

Memorial Plaque

Memorial Plaque

Breitscheidplatz

A place for quiet reflection, honoring the victims of the 2016 attack.

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Planning Your Visit

Reflect and Remember

Breitscheidplatz is a site of remembrance. Visitors should approach with respect, acknowledging its history as the location of a tragic terrorist attack. Understanding this context enhances the visitor experience.

Eventful Hub

This square is a dynamic public space hosting various events, from protests to pop-up shops and festivals. Check local listings to see what's happening during your visit.

Best Times

When
Winter evenings
Why
Festive Christmas market magic
Crowd
High
When
Daytime, weekdays
Why
Quieter reflection and exploration
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Berliner Polizei lässt „Mahnmal für Migrationsopfer“ räumen Unweit des Breitscheidplatzes stellte der Deutschlandkurier Betonklötze mit Blumen und Bildern von Opfern auf. Nur wenige Stunden später entfernte die Polizei die Aktion. NIUS war vor Ort und hat die Räumung begleitet – und mit Passanten gesprochen.
@nius.de
32K likes • 432.9K views

Visit with Respect

Approach Breitscheidplatz with solemnity, recognizing its history as a site of remembrance. :pray: TikTok

Check Event Schedules

The square hosts various events, from protests to markets. Plan accordingly! :calendar: TikTok

Am 19. Dezember 2016 führte der Terrorist Anis Amri einen Anschlag auf den Weihnachtsmarkt am Breitscheidplatz in Berlin, nahe der Gedächtniskirche, durch. Er steuerte einen entführten Sattelzug in die Menschenmenge, was zum Tod von 13 Personen und zur Verletzung von mindestens 67 weiteren führte. Unter den Todesopfern befand sich auch der polnische Lkw-Fahrer Łukasz Urban, den Amri ermordete. Es ...
@azadiius
17.2K likes • 274.7K views
♥️💖♥️Grüße vom Breitscheidplatz 💖♥️💖 #shandiekudamm #viral #reels #berlin #live #amazing #explore #stuttgart #bielefeld #online #breitscheidplatz #respect #videoviral
shandie_kudamm_berlin
60 likes • 10.9K views

Christmas Market Delights

Enjoy mulled wine and festive treats at the popular Christmas market. :wine_glass: Reddit

Public Transport Access

Easily reachable via S-Bahn and U-Bahn at Zoologischer Garten or Kurfürstendamm. :train2: Instagram

Anzeige | can you guess my shade? (📍 Breitscheidplatz, Berlin on October 9–10, 10AM–7PM) ❤️❤️ @tirtir_global @tirtir_official #tirtir #tirtirworldtour #tirtircushion
kim.decker
0 likes • 33.7K views

Tips

from all over the internet

Visit with Respect

Approach Breitscheidplatz with solemnity, recognizing its history as a site of remembrance. :pray: TikTok

Check Event Schedules

The square hosts various events, from protests to markets. Plan accordingly! :calendar: TikTok

Christmas Market Delights

Enjoy mulled wine and festive treats at the popular Christmas market. :wine_glass: Reddit

Public Transport Access

Easily reachable via S-Bahn and U-Bahn at Zoologischer Garten or Kurfürstendamm. :train2: Instagram

Photography Opportunities

Capture the contrast between the old church ruins and modern city life. :camera: Instagram

What Travellers Say

4.6
(491k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Breitscheidplatz is a significant location in Berlin, recognized for both its historical importance as a site of remembrance and its vibrant role as a public square. Visitors often highlight the poignant Kaiser Wilhelm Memorial Church and the festive atmosphere of the Christmas market. However, some find the square's association with the 2016 attack to be somber, and it can become very crowded during events.

What People Like

Kaiser Wilhelm Memorial Church
Christmas Market atmosphere
Central location

What People Dislike

Crowded during events
Somber historical context

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Breitscheidplatz is very accessible by public transport. You can take the S-Bahn lines S5, S7, or S9 to Zoologischer Garten station, or the U-Bahn lines U2 or U9 to the same station. Alternatively, U-Bahn lines U1 and U9 serve the Kurfürstendamm station, which is a short walk away. Instagram

Yes, Breitscheidplatz is a major landmark in Berlin, located at the western end of the Kurfürstendamm. It's hard to miss, especially with the prominent Kaiser Wilhelm Memorial Church. Instagram

Driving is possible, but parking can be challenging and expensive in this central area. Public transport is generally recommended for ease of access. TikTok

The closest major public transport hub is Zoologischer Garten station, serving multiple S-Bahn and U-Bahn lines. Kurfürstendamm U-Bahn station is also nearby. Instagram

Public transport stations like Zoologischer Garten are generally accessible, and the square itself is largely flat, making it navigable for most visitors. TikTok

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Breitscheidplatz is a public square, so there are no tickets required to enter or walk around. Entry to the Kaiser Wilhelm Memorial Church is also free. Instagram

As a public space, Breitscheidplatz is accessible 24/7. However, specific events like the Christmas market have their own operating hours. Instagram

There is no entrance fee for the memorial aspects of Breitscheidplatz or the Kaiser Wilhelm Memorial Church. Donations are welcome. TikTok

The Christmas Market on Breitscheidplatz typically opens in late November and runs until late December or early January. For 2024, it's scheduled to open on November 25th. Instagram

Yes, Breitscheidplatz frequently hosts events, including protests, rallies, pop-up shops, and seasonal markets like the Christmas market. It's advisable to check local event listings. TikTokInstagram

🎫 📍 Onsite Experience

Key sights include the Kaiser Wilhelm Memorial Church, the memorial plaque for the victims of the 2016 attack, and the bustling atmosphere of the square, especially during events like the Christmas market. TikTokInstagram

While Breitscheidplatz is a public space, it's important to be aware of your surroundings, especially during large gatherings or protests. The area is generally well-policed. Instagram+1

Breitscheidplatz is significant as a major public square and a site of remembrance for the 2016 terrorist attack. It's also a vibrant hub for events and shopping. TikTokInstagram

Yes, photography is generally permitted in public spaces like Breitscheidplatz. However, be mindful of any specific event regulations or privacy concerns. Instagram

For a festive atmosphere, visit during the Christmas market season. For a quieter experience, weekdays during the day are ideal for reflection and exploration. Instagram

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

Yes, Breitscheidplatz is surrounded by numerous cafes, restaurants, and eateries, catering to various tastes and budgets. The Kurfürstendamm area is known for its dining options. Instagram

The Christmas market offers traditional German festive foods like bratwurst, crepes, gingerbread, and of course, Glühwein (mulled wine). Reddit

Given its central location and proximity to many restaurants, you'll find a good selection of vegetarian and vegan options in the surrounding area. Instagram

Absolutely! There are many cafes and coffee shops in the vicinity, perfect for a break while exploring. Instagram

Occasionally, food trucks or temporary stalls might be present, especially during other events or festivals held at the square. TikTok

📸 📸 Photography

The Kaiser Wilhelm Memorial Church, especially its ruins, offers dramatic shots. The square itself, with its mix of old and new architecture, and the festive lights during the Christmas market are also great subjects. Instagram

Golden hour (shortly after sunrise or before sunset) can provide beautiful light. For dramatic shots of the church ruins, overcast or rainy days can also be effective. The Christmas market is magical at night with all the lights. Instagram

Generally, photography is allowed in public spaces. However, avoid intrusive photography of individuals and be aware of any temporary restrictions during protests or private events. Instagram

A versatile camera, whether a smartphone or a dedicated camera, will work well. Consider a wide-angle lens for capturing the expanse of the square and the church. Instagram

Drone usage in Berlin is heavily regulated, especially in public areas and near landmarks. It's highly unlikely you'll be able to fly a drone legally over Breitscheidplatz without special permits. Instagram

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Breitscheidplatz offers a mix of historical reflection and festive fun. While the memorial aspects are somber, the Kaiser Wilhelm Memorial Church ruins can be a visually striking sight for older children, sparking conversations about history. During the winter, the Christmas market is a major draw for families, with its festive atmosphere, treats, and potential for carousel rides. Instagram

Nearby, the Tiergarten provides ample space for children to run around and play. The Zoologischer Garten (Berlin Zoo) is also a short U-Bahn ride away, making it a perfect addition to a family day out. When visiting, consider the timing to avoid overwhelming crowds, especially during peak market hours. Instagram

🕊️ Travelers Seeking Remembrance

For those visiting Breitscheidplatz with a focus on remembrance, the memorial plaque dedicated to the victims of the 2016 attack is a crucial point of reflection. The ruins of the Kaiser Wilhelm Memorial Church also serve as a powerful testament to the destructive impact of war and a symbol of resilience. TikTok+1

Approach the square with a sense of respect and quiet contemplation. Visiting during less crowded times, such as weekday mornings, can offer a more personal and profound experience. Consider spending time in quiet observation and reflection to honor the memory of those affected by past events. Instagram

🛍️ Shoppers and Urban Explorers

Breitscheidplatz is an excellent starting point for shoppers and urban explorers. It's directly adjacent to the Kurfürstendamm (Ku'damm), Berlin's premier shopping boulevard, featuring flagship stores and luxury boutiques. The Kranzler Eck building, a historic landmark, is also in the vicinity. Instagram

Beyond shopping, the square itself is a dynamic space. Keep an eye out for temporary pop-up events and installations that frequently appear, offering unique experiences and photo opportunities. TikTokInstagram The excellent public transport links from Zoologischer Garten station make it easy to venture further into Berlin's diverse neighborhoods for more exploration.

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The History and Significance of Breitscheidplatz

Breitscheidplatz, located in the heart of Berlin's Charlottenburg district, is a significant public space with a complex history. Originally known as 'Gervinusplatz' and later 'Auguste-Viktoria-Platz', it was renamed Breitscheidplatz in 1947 in honor of Rudolf Breitscheid, a Social Democratic politician who died in a bombing raid during World War II. The square is perhaps most tragically known as the site of the 2016 terrorist attack on a Christmas market, where a truck was driven into a crowd, killing 12 people and injuring many more. This event has profoundly shaped the square's identity, making it a place of remembrance and reflection. TikTok+1

The adjacent Kaiser Wilhelm Memorial Church is an integral part of the Breitscheidplatz experience. Its original spire was heavily damaged during Allied bombing in World War II, and the decision was made to preserve the ruins as a stark anti-war monument. A modern church and bell tower were later constructed alongside the ruins, creating a powerful juxtaposition of destruction and reconstruction. This landmark serves as a constant reminder of the city's past and its resilience. Instagram

Beyond its historical and memorial significance, Breitscheidplatz is a vibrant urban hub. It's a popular destination for shopping, with the famous Kurfürstendamm boulevard nearby, and it frequently hosts public events, demonstrations, and seasonal markets, most notably the popular Christmas market. This dynamic nature means the square can transform from a place of quiet contemplation to a lively gathering space within a short period. TikTokInstagram

Navigating Breitscheidplatz and its Surroundings

Breitscheidplatz is exceptionally well-connected, making it easy to reach and explore. The primary public transport hub is Zoologischer Garten station, a major interchange for both S-Bahn (city trains) and U-Bahn (subway) lines. This station provides direct access to many parts of Berlin, including the Brandenburg Gate and Alexanderplatz. The Kurfürstendamm U-Bahn station is also a short walk away, offering further connectivity. Instagram

Once you arrive, the square itself is largely pedestrian-friendly. The Kaiser Wilhelm Memorial Church is the dominant feature, with its striking ruins and modern additions. A memorial plaque is located on the square to commemorate the victims of the 2016 attack, offering a space for quiet reflection. During the holiday season, the Christmas market transforms the square into a festive spectacle with numerous stalls selling crafts, food, and drinks. InstagramReddit

Exploring the surrounding area is highly recommended. The Kurfürstendamm (Ku'damm), one of Berlin's most famous shopping streets, is just steps away, offering a wide array of international brands and department stores. The Tiergarten, Berlin's largest park, is also within walking distance, providing a green oasis for relaxation. Instagram