Alexanderplatz
In the second half of the 19th century Alexanderplatz was revamped into a modern transit interchange. It is one of Berlin’s most central squares located in the Mitte borough. There’s plenty of shops and attractions in this bustling transit hub, with Berlin’s largest underground railway hubs, subway lines and many tram and bus lines.
You will see restored historic structures used for various purposes all with their unique past stories to tell.
Alexanderplatz started out as a cattle market outside of the city walls. Russian Emperor Alexander 1st, visited Berlin in 1805. Honouring his visit, Frederick William III, King of Prussia, ordered that the district be named after him. Today many locals refer to simply as 'Alex'.
Still under the German Democratic Republic in East Berin, In 1960 this popular square was expanded and turned into a pedestrian zone.
November 4th, 1989 just before the fall of the Berlin Wall and the reunification of Germany, approximately a million protesters congregated in the square to peacefully oppose the GDR regime. This was one of the largest demonstrations in East German history.
A few of the restored and aesthetically updated buildings on the east side are: The Hotel Park INN; formerly :The Hotel Stadt Berlin) This is the tallest hotel in Berlin with 37 storeys high and 1012 guest rooms, restaurants and a bar with breathtaking views that overlook the city, Rotes Rathaus(Red City Hall located in the Mitte district close to Alexanderplatz is a historic landmark, built between 1861-1869. It is home to the governing mayor and the Senate of Berlin. This beautiful red brick building fills an entire city block. Many rooms are definitely worth viewing), Haus des Lehrers :Teachers’ House) This building was built under the German Democratic Republic and noted for a mural named Unser Leben (Our Life)that wraps the building between the second and fifth floors displaying numerous aspects of life and work in the GDR, the largest department store in the German Democratic Republic : (the Kaufhof,features a colourful 23 metre high fountain in front of the store named the Brunnen der Volker Freundschaft : fountain of friendship between the nations and the famous World Time Clock that shows the time around the world), The 18 storey high Haus des Reisens :House of Travel) with wave-like mouldings made for concrete like the edges of a scallop shell, and the publishing house building.
Other sights and attractions at Alexanderplatz are: The Fernsehturm (TV Tower) the highest structure in Germany topped with a globe where you can take in panoramic views from its rotating observation deck and restaurant, the CUBIX and Berlinale cinemas, and close to the square shoppers will love the huge five storey shopping mall Alexa.
Facts For Your Visit
Fee: NoAddress: Mitte, 10178 Berlin, Germany
Official Website: Alexanderplatz
Alexanderplatz Reviews
Rated out of 5![]()
Alexanderplatz is one of the liveliest and most recognizable places in Berlin. Surrounded by modern architecture, historic landmarks, street performers, and the iconic TV Tower, it has a unique atmosphere that feels almost surreal, especially as the city comes alive around you. Whether you’re shopping, sightseeing, or simply people-watching, there’s always something happening. It’s a great starting point for exploring Berlin and experiencing the city’s vibrant energy.
Elite reviewer - 3 months ago
Free entry & hours: Alexanderplatz is a public city square in Berlin and free to enter 24/7. Surrounding department stores, indoor attractions, and viewing platforms follow their own operating schedules.
• Historic & charming: Originating as a 13th-century cattle market, the square was transformed during the East German era into a broad pedestrian plaza showcasing iconic socialist modernism alongside historic landmarks.
What to see: Check the time across 24 zones on the famous World Time Clock, relax beside the colorful Brunnen der Völkerfreundschaft fountain, and gaze up at the soaring Berlin TV Tower.
Family facilities: Offers wide paved areas suitable for strollers, street music and artists, plus family dining and shopping at the massive ALEXA Berlin center.
• Easy to reach: Serving as one of Berlin's primary transit hubs, the station beneath the square connects via S-Bahn, U-Bahn (U2, U5, U8), regional express trains, and local tram routes.
• Best for photos & quiet time: Early morning hours (before 9:00 AM) provide clear angles of the TV Tower and World Time Clock with minimal foot traffic.
⚠️ What to keep in mind
• Crowds & pickpockets: As one of the city's busiest pedestrian intersections, peak afternoon hours bring dense crowds—keep personal belongings secure.
• Weather exposure: The broad plaza has minimal overhead cover, so pack an umbrella or warm layers depending on the season.
• Underground maze: The multi-level U-Bahn and S-Bahn station beneath the square is large and complex; pay close attention to exit signage.
Lin Den - 3 months ago
Alexanderplatz: The Pulsating Heart of Berlin
Alexanderplatz, affectionately known by locals simply as "Alex," is far more than just a public square; it is a historic landmark and the central transportation hub of Berlin. Located in the Mitte district, the square has served as a meeting point for centuries, but its modern identity was largely forged during the era of the German Democratic Republic (GDR). Following the destruction of the Second World War, the square was redesigned in the 1960s to reflect socialist urban planning, resulting in the expansive, wide-open layout that defines it today. You can see Plattenbau in this area.
Dominating the skyline—and visible from almost anywhere in the city—is the iconic Fernsehturm (TV Tower). Completed in 1969, it stands at 368 meters and remains the tallest structure in Germany. Visitors can ascend to the viewing deck for an unparalleled panorama of Berlin, which is an essential activity for any first-time visitor. Just a short walk from the base of the tower lies the World Clock (Weltzeituhr), a beloved meeting spot that displays the time in various time zones around the globe, standing as a testament to the square’s long-standing status as a cosmopolitan crossroads.
Alexanderplatz is also a retail paradise. It is surrounded by large department stores like Galeria and the Alexa shopping mall, making it the perfect destination for those looking to experience the modern commercial side of the city. Furthermore, its status as a major transit nexus—served by multiple U-Bahn and S-Bahn lines—makes it the most accessible point in Berlin. While some criticize its stark, concrete-heavy architecture, others appreciate the raw, imposing history embedded in its buildings and statues. Whether you are coming to catch a train, admire the TV tower, or shop, Alexanderplatz offers an intense, high-energy experience that remains an indispensable chapter in Berlin's complex urban narrative.
Ellinor - 4 months ago
A lot happening here. We tried the Indian street food. It was pretty good and tasted fresh. Samosas were awesome and cooked while you wait. Lots of restaurants to choose from.
Michelle Allen (Wanderingauzzies) - 3 months ago
Beautiful square, in the heart of Berlin, easy to reach and with many things to see nearby. It' one of the places that I can feel "I am in Berlin". Highly recommend it.
Willian A Lopes - 4 months ago
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Directions
How to get to Alexanderplatz by U-Bahn, S-Bahn or MetroTram
Nearest U-Bahn, S-Bahn or MetroTram Line(s): S5, S7, S75, U2, U5, U8, M2, M4 ,M5, M6
Nearest U-Bahn, S-Bahn or MetroTram Station(s): Alexanderplatz
Map & Instant Route Finder
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Photo Gallery
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Photo Credit: hakzelf - cc license via Flickr -
Photo Credit: hakzelf - cc license via Flickr

