East Side Gallery: A Canvas of Freedom
Experience history and art at the East Side Gallery, the world's largest open-air gallery on a remaining section of the Berlin Wall, symbolizing freedom and unity.
The East Side Gallery, a 1.3-kilometer stretch of the Berlin Wall, stands as a powerful symbol of freedom and artistic expression. Following the wall's fall in 1989, over a hundred artists from around the world transformed this once-dividing barrier into the world's largest open-air art gallery. Located along the Spree River, the gallery showcases a diverse collection of murals reflecting the euphoria and hope of a world emerging from the Cold War. Iconic images, such as the Fraternal Kiss and the Trabant breaking through the wall, capture the spirit of change and reconciliation. Today, the East Side Gallery attracts millions of visitors annually, offering a poignant reminder of Berlin's divided past and its vibrant present. It's a must-see destination for anyone seeking to understand Berlin's history and experience its unique artistic energy, providing a space for reflection and inspiration.
A brief summary to East Side Gallery
- Mühlenstraße, Berlin, Friedrichshain-Kreuzberg, 10243, DE
- +4930213085123
- Visit website
Local tips
- Visit early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid crowds and have a more intimate experience with the artwork.
- Take a guided tour to gain deeper insights into the history of the Berlin Wall and the stories behind the murals.
- Explore the surrounding neighborhoods of Kreuzberg and Friedrichshain for trendy cafes, restaurants, and street art.
- Wear comfortable shoes, as you'll be walking along a 1.3-kilometer stretch of the wall.
- Bring a camera to capture the vibrant murals and the unique atmosphere of this historic landmark.
Getting There
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Public Transport
From Warschauer Straße station (U1, U3, S-Bahn S3, S5, S7, S9, and various tram lines), walk east along Warschauer Straße, then turn left onto Mühlenstraße. The East Side Gallery will be on your right, a short 5-minute walk. Alternatively, from Ostbahnhof station (S-Bahn S3, S5, S7, S9, RE1, RE2, RE7, RE8, FEX), walk west along Mühlenstraße for about 10 minutes; the gallery will be on your left. A short trip ticket (Kurzstrecke) for the S-Bahn or U-Bahn costs around €2.00.
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Taxi/Ride-Share
From anywhere in central Berlin, a taxi or ride-share to Mühlenstraße (near the East Side Gallery) will typically cost between €10-€15, depending on the distance and traffic. Ask the driver to drop you off near the Mercedes-Benz Arena for easy access to the gallery.
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Driving
If driving, navigate to Mühlenstraße, 10243 Berlin. Limited public parking is available on Mühlenstraße. If those are full, the Plaza-Parkhaus (Mildred-Harnack-Str.) and Arena-Parkhaus or East Side Mall-Parkhaus (Helene-Ernst-Str.) are nearby alternatives. Parking fees typically range from €2-€3 per hour.
Discover more about East Side Gallery
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
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