Things to See Near Alexanderplatz: Culture, History & Hidden Gems
Just steps from Alexanderplatz, Berlin’s sprawling central square, you'll find a rich tapestry of sights — from medieval corners to cutting-edge museums. While Alexanderplatz itself is packed with things to do, the surrounding area offers even more to explore, especially for history lovers, architecture buffs, and culture seekers.
If you're planning a day around Alex, don’t miss these must-see sights within easy walking distance.
🏘 1. Nikolaiviertel – Berlin’s Oldest Quarter
Tucked just behind the river Spree, the Nikolaiviertel is a charming reconstruction of Berlin’s medieval heart. Cobblestone lanes, traditional German taverns, and the St. Nicholas Church give the area a village-like feel, offering a peaceful contrast to the modern bustle of Alexanderplatz.
Tip: Check out our full blogpost on “Things to Do in Nikolaiviertel” for deeper insight.
🏛 2. Humboldt Forum & Museum Island
Cross the river to discover Humboldt Forum, a cultural space housed in the rebuilt Berlin Palace. It hosts rotating exhibitions, world art collections, and debates on colonial history.
Just next door lies Museum Island, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, home to five of Berlin’s most prestigious museums — including the Pergamon and Neues Museum. A paradise for culture lovers!
🕵️♂️ 3. DDR Museum
This interactive museum brings life in former East Germany into sharp focus. Try your hand at typing on a GDR typewriter, sit in a Trabant, or peek inside a recreated Plattenbau apartment. Located directly on the Spree, the DDR Museum is both fun and deeply informative.
🌿 4. Alte Münze & Garden Café
Berlin’s former mint, the Alte Münze, is now a creative hub with exhibitions, events, and a tranquil café garden tucked inside its courtyard. It’s a great hidden gem for coffee, art, and a quick break away from the crowds.
🧱 5. Ruins of the Franciscan Monastery Church (Franziskaner-Klosterkirche)
Tucked away on Klosterstraße, the Ruine der Franziskaner-Klosterkirche is a hauntingly beautiful Gothic shell of a church bombed during WWII. It now serves as a public space for open-air concerts and art installations.
⛪ 6. Parochialkirche on Klosterstraße
One of Berlin’s lesser-known gems, the Parochialkirche features a striking mix of Baroque and Art Nouveau interiors. The church bell tower offers lovely views, and its peaceful courtyard is perfect for quiet reflection.
🎬 7. Babylon Cinema
A true Berlin icon, Kino Babylon near Rosa-Luxemburg-Platz is an Art Deco cinema from the 1920s, known for its silent film screenings with live organ, independent films, and retro charm. A cultural treasure for film lovers. Silent films are accompanied by a live orchestra, a cinema-organ improvises soundtracks at midnight screenings, as well as events and showings of new and old films.
Check out their programme here: https://babylonberlin.eu/
🎭 8. Volksbühne
Across the street from Babylon, you’ll find the bold, avant-garde Volksbühne Theatre. With its roots in socialist history and experimental performance, it’s a Berlin institution for cutting-edge drama, dance, and visual art.
⚖️ 9. Amtsgericht Berlin Mitte (District Court Interior)
Not your average courthouse — the Amtsgericht Berlin-Mitte, located on Littenstraße, features a majestic Neo-Renaissance interior with stunning staircases and woodwork. Entry may be limited, but architecture fans should peek inside when possible.
🐠 10. Radisson Blu Hotel Lobby & AquaDom Memory next to CityQuartier DomAquarée
While the famous AquaDom aquarium sadly burst in 2022, the Radisson Blu Hotel lobby has recently reopened with an architectural replacement named "The Living Tree" as a tribute to the beloved vertical tank.
Nevertheless the CityQuartier DomAquarée next to the Radisson offers plenty of food and shopping opportunities.
Make the Most of the Area Around Alexanderplatz
From hidden monasteries to bold theatre and historic alleys to world-class museums, the surroundings of Alexanderplatz are packed with surprises. Whether you're stepping back into medieval Berlin or diving into GDR history, these attractions are all within a 10–15 minute walk of the square — perfect for adding depth to your visit.
