Brandenburg Gate

What are the most recommended things to do in Brandenburg Gate?

Walk through and admire the neoclassical architecture of Brandenburg Gate, a symbol of Berlin and German unity
Take photos at the iconic Pariser Platz and capture the gate with the surrounding historic buildings
Learn about its history as a former city gate, Cold War landmark, and site of major political events
Attend cultural events, festivals, or ceremonies held nearby
Combine your visit with a walking tour of central Berlin, including Unter den Linden boulevard

Introducing Brandenburg Gate

The Brandenburg Gate, located in the heart of Berlin, Germany, was originally a gate in the Berlin Wall and was named after the city of Brandenburg. The preserved Brandenburg Gate is a Classical Revival building, built between 1788 and 1791 by order of King Frederick William II of Prussia to commemorate Prussia's victory in the Seven Years' War.

Climate and best time to travel

According to the Zhou Shuzhen climate classification, Berlin has a temperate continental humid climate (according to the Köppen climate classification, Berlin has a temperate/humid climate (Cfb)). Warm, humid air masses from the North Atlantic contribute to relatively mild winters. Summers are cool and pleasant, and rainfall is evenly distributed throughout the year, with slightly more precipitation in winter.

The average annual temperature in Berlin-Dahlem (in the Steglitz-Zehlendorf district) is 9.4°C (48.9°F), and the average annual precipitation is 578 mm (22.8 in).

Recommended number of days and locations for visiting

The Brandenburg Gate is a neoclassical sandstone building designed by Langhans and modeled after the colonnade architecture of the Acropolis in Athens, Greece.

The Brandenburg Gate is 26 meters high, 65.5 meters wide and 11 meters deep. Its flat roof is supported by 12 Doric columns, each 15 meters high and 1.75 meters in diameter at the bottom. There are 6 Ionic columns on each side of the east and west. There is a wall between the front and back columns, which divides the gatehouse into 5 gates. The passage in the middle is slightly wider and was designed for members of the royal family. Until the abdication of Wilhelm II, the last emperor of the German Empire in 1918, only members of the royal family and guests invited by the king were allowed to enter and exit from the passage in the middle of the Brandenburg Gate.

The inner wall of the gate is decorated with relief carvings of Hercules, the greatest hero in Roman mythology, Mars, the god of war, and Minerva, the goddess of wisdom and patron saint of artists and craftsmen.

Tickets

free

Attraction opening hours

9:30-18:00

Most Popular FAQs for Brandenburg Gate

What is the history and significance of this attraction/city?

Brandenburg Gate, built in the late 18th century, is a neoclassical monument and former city gate in Berlin. It has witnessed key historical events, symbolized Germany’s division during the Cold War, and now stands as a symbol of reunification and peace.

Where is it located and how do I get there (metro, bus, taxi, walking)?

Located at Pariser Platz, central Berlin. Accessible via U-Bahn: Brandenburger Tor station (U5), S-Bahn: Berlin Brandenburg Gate station, buses, or by walking from nearby attractions. Taxis and rideshares are also convenient.

What are the opening hours and best times to visit?

The gate itself is an open public space and can be visited anytime. Best visiting times are early morning or late afternoon to avoid crowds and capture good lighting for photography.

What is the entrance fee/ticket price, and how to buy tickets (online/offline)?

Free access; no tickets required as it is an outdoor monument.

Do I need to book tickets in advance, and how far in advance?

No advance booking is needed for visiting Brandenburg Gate.

How much time is needed to fully explore it?

30–60 minutes is sufficient for sightseeing, photography, and a short walk around Pariser Platz.

What are the must-see highlights or main areas inside?

As an open monument, the main highlight is the Brandenburg Gate itself and the surrounding Pariser Platz with historic buildings and statues.

Are guided tours or audio guides available (and in which languages)?

Guided city walking tours often include Brandenburg Gate and are available in multiple languages including English, German, and French. No official audio guide for the gate itself.

What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?

Front view from Pariser Platz for full monument shots
From Unter den Linden boulevard for perspective shots
At night when the gate is illuminated

What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?

Walk from Unter den Linden to Pariser Platz, take photos of the gate, then explore nearby attractions such as the Reichstag, Memorial to the Murdered Jews of Europe, and Tiergarten.

Are night visits, light shows, or special tours available?

Night visits are popular; the gate is beautifully illuminated. Special events may occur on national holidays or during festivals.

Is it crowded, and when are the least crowded times/days to visit?

Very crowded during daytime and tourist seasons. Least crowded times are early morning or late evening on weekdays.

What facilities are available (toilets, food, water, rest areas, shops)?

Nearby cafes and restaurants in Pariser Platz
Public restrooms in surrounding areas
Benches and open spaces for resting
Souvenir shops nearby along Unter den Linden

Is the attraction accessible for elderly, children, or disabled visitors?

Yes, fully accessible as it is an open public space with level pavements and ramps.

Is cash needed or are cards/mobile payments accepted?

Cash and cards are accepted at nearby facilities; visiting the gate itself is free.

What restaurants or cafes are available inside or nearby?

Restaurant Käfer Dachgarten at the Reichstag
Cafes along Unter den Linden boulevard
Nearby hotels with dining options

Are there vegetarian/vegan/halal food options?

Vegetarian and vegan options are available at nearby restaurants and cafes; halal options may require prior research.

What hotels or accommodations are close to the site?

Hotel Adlon Kempinski Berlin
Berlin Marriott Hotel
NH Collection Berlin Mitte

What other attractions or landmarks are nearby and easy to combine in a day trip?

Reichstag Building
Memorial to the Murdered Jews of Europe
Unter den Linden boulevard
Potsdamer Platz
Tiergarten Park