Teufelsberg, Berlin - the sun is setting behind a tower on a hill
1 / 10

Teufelsberg Berlin

4.3
·2k reviews·Berlin, Germany

Explore a former Cold War spy station transformed into a vibrant street art gallery with stunning panoramic views of Berlin.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, better light

CrowdLow
Loading map...
Teufelsberg, Berlin - the sun is setting behind a tower on a hill

Teufelsberg Berlin

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, better light

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Explore a former Cold War spy station transformed into a vibrant street art gallery with stunning panoramic views of Berlin.

4.3
(2k reviews)

"A unique blend of history, art, and breathtaking views that makes for an unforgettable Berlin experience."

Vertical photo
TIP

🎟️ Buy Your Ticket

Entry costs around 8-15 Euros. It's a commercial property now, so expect security.

👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes

You'll be doing a lot of walking and climbing on uneven terrain. :athletic_shoe:

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Street Art Wonderland

Street Art Wonderland

Throughout the site

Explore a vast open-air gallery with vibrant, ever-changing graffiti and murals covering every surface.

Cold War Radar Dome

Cold War Radar Dome

Top of the hill

Climb to the iconic radar dome for a glimpse into its NSA listening station past and amazing acoustics.

Panoramic City Views

Panoramic City Views

Highest points of the hill

Enjoy breathtaking 360-degree views of Berlin's skyline and the surrounding Grunewald forest.

Planning Your Visit

Tickets & Access

Entry to Teufelsberg Berlin requires a ticket, typically around 8-15 Euros, which includes access to the street art and historical site. While some Redditors recall finding ways in for free in the past, it's now a commercial property with security, so purchasing a ticket is the recommended and legal way to visit. Reddit+1

Best Time to Visit

To avoid crowds and enjoy the street art and views, aim for weekdays, especially in the morning. Weekends can get busier, and while there's no official 'best' time for weather, clear days offer the most impressive panoramic views of Berlin. Reddit

Best Times

When
Weekday mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, better light
Crowd
Low
When
Clear afternoons
Why
Best panoramic views
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Things to do in Berlin only locals know 😎 If you’re planning to visit Berlin and want to avoid tourist traps, then I hope this video about one of the coolest cities in Europe inspired you 🙌🤓 Here is m...
@sandymakessense
85.9K likes • 1.6M views

🎟️ Buy Your Ticket

Entry costs around 8-15 Euros. It's a commercial property now, so expect security. Reddit+1

👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes

You'll be doing a lot of walking and climbing on uneven terrain. :athletic_shoe:

Berlin Street Art at its finest! ✨🎨 Haus Schwarzenberg is a must-see spot when in Berlin. 💪 #berlinguide #citytrip #hiddengems
@stayery.official
41.7K likes • 916.9K views
#berlin #teufelsbergberlin #wallart #openairgaleriebadmünstereifel #streetarteverywhere #amazingplace #neverenough #streetsart #straßekunst #strassekunstberlin
ozigns
38 likes • 0 views

📸 Capture the Art

The street art is constantly evolving, so every visit offers new photo opportunities. :camerawithflash:

🎧 Consider a Tour

A guided tour (around 15 Euros) offers fascinating historical context. Reddit

the graffiti is wild! #germany #berlin #placetovisit #berlintipp #berlintiktok #travel
@dianaverry
35.1K likes • 385.1K views

Tips

from all over the internet

🎟️ Buy Your Ticket

Entry costs around 8-15 Euros. It's a commercial property now, so expect security. Reddit+1

👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes

You'll be doing a lot of walking and climbing on uneven terrain. :athletic_shoe:

📸 Capture the Art

The street art is constantly evolving, so every visit offers new photo opportunities. :camerawithflash:

🎧 Consider a Tour

A guided tour (around 15 Euros) offers fascinating historical context. Reddit

💧 Bring Water & Snacks

There's a bar on-site, but having your own refreshments is handy. :water_wave:

What Travellers Say

4.3
(2k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors rave about Teufelsberg Berlin for its incredible street art and unique historical significance as a former Cold War listening station. The panoramic views are a major draw, offering a different perspective of the city. While the entry fee is noted, most feel it's worth it for the experience, though some find it a bit pricey for what's offered. Reddit+1

"What an amazing historical place. Loved the street art and the guided tour all the way up to the top. Great view included. Admission fee justified to maintain the place."

Florian Pötzsch

"The place itself is fascinating, a unique mix of urban decay, graffiti, and panoramic views over Berlin. But our visit at the end of July was a deep disappointment due to poor communication and unprofessional handling of a problem. We came specifically for the Declassified exhibition, which was clearly advertised on the official website and included in the admission fee. After paying full admission, we discovered inside that the exhibition was closed, with no prior notice online or at the entrance. We went back to the cashier, who didn’t even know it was closed. She had to make a phone call, after which she simply said: “It’s closed today,” offering no explanation, apology, or compensation.

I contacted the organization the same day and was kindly offered a refund. I replied immediately with my bank details and a bank-confirmed proof of payment, and explained, openly and reasonably, that I no longer had the paper receipt. Then came three weeks of silence. When I followed up, I was told that a refund was not possible without the receipt, even though the payment confirmation I had sent was official, clear, and more precise than any paper ticket. Together with the confusion and lack of accountability on site, it only adds to the impression of poor organization and missing professionalism."

Michaela Škultéty

"One of the most interesting places I visited on my trip to Berlin. Teufelsberg is an old field station that is now a public street art gallery. You can go up to the highest building and see very good views of Berlin. Every corner of this place has it's own story. It's a long hike trough the forest to get to Teufelsberg, but totally worth it. The entrance is about 12 €."

Pauls

What People Like

Vibrant street art
Historical significance
Panoramic city views

What People Dislike

Entry fee price

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Teufelsberg is located in the Grunewald forest. You can reach it by public transport, typically taking a train to Heerstraße or Messe Nord/ICC station, followed by a bus or a walk. Some visitors mention it's a bit of a trek, so comfortable shoes are a must. Reddit

Yes, you can drive to Teufelsberg, and there is parking available. However, be prepared for a walk from the parking area to the main site. Reddit

Combining public transport with a walk is a popular and eco-friendly option. Check local transport apps for the most up-to-date routes and schedules. Reddit

While it's in a forest, following signs for Teufelsberg or using GPS will guide you. The distinctive radar dome is visible from a distance. Reddit

Cycling is a great option if you enjoy scenic routes through Grunewald. There are paths leading towards the hill, and you can often lock your bike nearby. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Entry typically costs around 8 Euros for general admission, with guided tours costing around 15 Euros. Prices can vary, so it's best to check their official website. Reddit+1

While not always mandatory, booking tickets in advance, especially for guided tours or during peak season, is recommended to secure your spot. Reddit

Opening hours can vary seasonally and for special events. It's advisable to check the official Teufelsberg website for the most current information before your visit. Reddit

Yes, Teufelsberg is now open to the public with an entry fee. In the past, it was accessible through unofficial means, but this is no longer the case and can lead to issues. Reddit+1

Yes, there are usually options for general admission and guided tours, which offer more in-depth historical information. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

Yes, photography is generally allowed and encouraged, especially for capturing the incredible street art. Instagram

The radar dome, the colorful graffiti-covered walls, and the panoramic views from the top are all prime photography locations. Instagram

Drone usage policies can be strict due to the site's history and current operations. It's best to check with the management beforehand if you plan to fly a drone. Instagram

While general photography is fine, be mindful of any private events or specific areas where photography might be restricted. Always respect the art and the site. Instagram

A camera with good low-light capabilities is beneficial for the interior spaces, while a wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive street art and views. Instagram

🎫 🏛️ History & Art

Teufelsberg was a crucial Cold War listening station operated by the NSA, built on a hill made of rubble from WWII. It was abandoned and later became a canvas for street artists. Reddit

It's renowned for its extensive street art and graffiti, featuring works by local and international artists. The art is dynamic and constantly changing. TikTokInstagram

While it has significant historical importance as a Cold War site, it's primarily known today as an open-air street art gallery and a unique urban exploration destination. Reddit

Yes, guided tours are available and highly recommended for those interested in the detailed history of the NSA station and its role in the Cold War. Reddit

Originally a top-secret listening post, it fell into disuse and was eventually transformed into a vibrant hub for street art, attracting artists and visitors from around the world. TikTokInstagram

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Teufelsberg can be an exciting adventure for families, offering a unique blend of art and history. The colorful street art is visually engaging for children, and the vastness of the site provides plenty of space to explore. TikTok Consider booking a guided tour if your children have a good attention span, as the historical context can be fascinating. However, be mindful that some areas might have uneven terrain, so ensure children are supervised and wearing appropriate footwear. Reddit

🎨 Art Enthusiasts

For art lovers, Teufelsberg is a must-visit. It's a living gallery where street art is constantly evolving. TikTokInstagram You can spend hours discovering new pieces, photographing the vibrant murals, and appreciating the creativity of artists who have transformed this former spy station into a cultural hotspot. Don't miss the chance to see works by both established and emerging artists. TikTok

🏛️ History Buffs

History enthusiasts will be captivated by Teufelsberg's past as a crucial Cold War listening station. Reddit Opt for a guided tour to delve deep into the site's espionage history and its role in global politics. Understanding the context of the NSA's operations here adds a profound layer to the experience of exploring the abandoned structures. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Exploring the Street Art

Teufelsberg is a sprawling canvas for some of Berlin's most impressive street art. From intricate murals covering entire buildings to smaller, thought-provoking pieces, the site is a dynamic open-air gallery. TikTokInstagram Many artists use the unique architecture and historical context of the former listening station as inspiration for their work. The art is constantly evolving, with new pieces appearing and old ones being painted over, making each visit a potentially different experience. TikTok

Visitors often describe the graffiti as 'wild' and 'amazing,' highlighting the sheer scale and creativity on display. TikTok It's a stark contrast to the sterile, functional design of the original NSA facility. The vibrant colors and diverse styles create a visually stimulating environment that appeals to art lovers and casual visitors alike. Instagram

When exploring, take your time to wander through all accessible areas. Some of the most striking pieces are found in unexpected corners. Keep an eye out for the work of renowned street artists, and don't forget to look up – the art extends to the domes and upper levels as well. TikTok

A Glimpse into Cold War History

The history of Teufelsberg is deeply intertwined with the Cold War. Built atop a hill of rubble from World War II, this former Nazi technical school site was transformed into a top-secret US National Security Agency (NSA) listening station during the Cold War. Reddit Its primary purpose was to intercept communications from East Berlin and the Soviet bloc. The distinctive white radar domes were designed to house powerful listening equipment.

Walking through the abandoned facilities, you can still feel the echoes of its past. The site offers a tangible connection to a period of intense global tension and espionage. Guided tours are highly recommended to fully appreciate the historical significance and the technical aspects of the listening station. Reddit These tours often provide fascinating anecdotes and insights into the daily operations and the strategic importance of Teufelsberg during its active years.

Today, the juxtaposition of its clandestine past with its present as a vibrant art space creates a unique and thought-provoking atmosphere. It's a place where history, art, and urban exploration converge, offering visitors a multi-layered experience that goes beyond just admiring the graffiti. Reddit

You may also like

1 of 2