Gendarmenmarkt: Berlin's Elegant Square
Discover Berlin's most beautiful square, framed by stunning architecture and steeped in history, offering a vibrant cultural experience in the heart of the city.
Gendarmenmarkt, arguably Berlin's most beautiful square, is a captivating destination renowned for its harmonious architectural ensemble and rich history. Framed by the Deutscher Dom (German Cathedral), Französischer Dom (French Cathedral), and the Konzerthaus Berlin, this square offers a stunning visual experience and a vibrant cultural atmosphere. Originally established in the late 17th century, Gendarmenmarkt has evolved from a market square to a prestigious public space, witnessing significant historical events and transformations. Today, it stands as a testament to Berlin's resilience and its unique ability to blend the old with the new, attracting visitors with its architectural splendor, cultural institutions, and diverse events, including the Classic Open Air concerts and the enchanting Christmas market. The square's meticulous reconstruction after World War II has restored its former grandeur, making it a must-see destination for anyone exploring Berlin.
A brief summary to Gendarmenmarkt
- Berlin, Mitte, 10117, DE
Local tips
- Climb the French Cathedral's tower for panoramic views of Gendarmenmarkt and the surrounding Berlin cityscape.
- Visit the Huguenot Museum inside the French Cathedral to learn about the history of French Protestant refugees in Berlin.
- Attend a classical music concert at the Konzerthaus Berlin for an unforgettable cultural experience.
- Explore the Parliamentary History Exhibition in the German Cathedral to learn about the development of democracy in Germany.
- During the Christmas season, visit the Weihnachtszauber Christmas market on Bebelplatz near Gendarmenmarkt for festive treats and handmade gifts.
Getting There
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Public Transport
Gendarmenmarkt is easily accessible via Berlin's efficient public transport system. The U-Bahn station 'Stadtmitte' (U2 and U6 lines) is a short walk away. Upon exiting the station, walk north along Glinkastraße, then turn right onto Markgrafenstraße. Continue straight; you'll see the Konzerthaus and the cathedrals come into view. Alternatively, the U-Bahn station 'Hausvogteiplatz' (U2 line) is also nearby. From there, walk west along Französische Straße until you reach Gendarmenmarkt. A short-trip ticket (Kurzstrecke) is sufficient for reaching Gendarmenmarkt from either station, costing around €2.00-€2.30.
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Bus
Several bus lines stop near Gendarmenmarkt. Bus lines 100, 200, and 300 have stops within a short walking distance. From the bus stops 'Französische Straße' or 'Staatsoper', walk towards the Konzerthaus, which is the central building of Gendarmenmarkt. A standard single ticket (Einzelticket) for zones A and B is required, costing approximately €3.50. This ticket allows travel on buses, U-Bahn, S-Bahn, and trams within the specified zones for two hours.
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Taxi/Ride-Share
Taxis and ride-sharing services are readily available throughout Berlin. A taxi ride from a central location like Alexanderplatz to Gendarmenmarkt would typically cost between €10 and €15, depending on traffic. Ride-sharing services like Uber or Bolt may offer slightly lower fares. Be sure to confirm the fare estimate before starting your trip. Note that during peak hours or events, surge pricing may apply.
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Walking
If you are already in the central Mitte district, walking to Gendarmenmarkt is a pleasant option. From Brandenburg Gate, walk east along Unter den Linden for about 15 minutes. You'll pass notable landmarks like the Staatsoper and the Neue Wache before reaching Gendarmenmarkt on your right. From Museum Island, cross the Schlossbrücke (Palace Bridge) and continue south along Unter den Linden. Turn left onto Französische Straße to reach the square. Walking allows you to enjoy the architectural and historical sights along the way, and there are no associated costs.
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Driving
Driving to Gendarmenmarkt is possible, but parking in the immediate vicinity can be limited and expensive. Several parking garages are located nearby, including the Q-Park Operncarrée and the Contipark Friedrichstadt-Passagen. Hourly parking rates typically range from €3 to €5, with daily maximums around €25 to €30. Be aware of traffic restrictions and Umweltzone (low emission zone) regulations when driving in central Berlin. Consider using a Park and Ride (P+R) facility outside the city center and taking public transport for the final leg of your journey.
Discover more about Gendarmenmarkt
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Gendarmenmarkt
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Französischer Dom
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Hausvogteiplatz
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Hausvogteipl. & Mohrenstraße
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Saint Hedwig's Cathedral
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Bebelpl.
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Denkmal für den Völkermord an den Armeniern
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Memorial to May 10, 1933 Nazi Book Burning
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Friedrichswerdersche Church
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Equestrian statue of King Friedrich II. of Prussia
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Unter den Linden
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Crown Prince's Palace
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Neue Wache
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Schinkelpl.
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Friedrichsgracht am Kupfergraben
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Unmissable attractions to see
Konzerthaus Berlin
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Antiquariat & Kunsthandel Gaston Düssel
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Bebelplatz
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Werderscher Markt
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Berlin State Opera
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Zietenplatz
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Humboldt University of Berlin
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Freedom and Unity Memorial
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BlackBox Cold War
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THE WALL - asisi Panorama
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Schlossbrücke
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German Historical Museum
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Checkpoint Charlie
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TimeRide Berlin VR-Stadtrundgang
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Trabi-Museum
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Essential places to dine
Charlotte & Fritz
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Restaurant Maximilians Berlin
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BLESS Restaurant
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Bocca di Bacco
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Restaurant FOREIGN AFFAIRS
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Nante-Eck
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Johnny's Bar - Karibisches Restaurant
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Restaurant Tim Raue
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Nobelhart & Schmutzig
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Lorenz Adlon Esszimmer
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Alt-Berliner Gasthaus Julchen Hoppe
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Restaurant Balthazar 2
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Berliner Republik
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Zur Gerichtslaube
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Mutter Hoppe
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Wolford Boutique Berlin
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The Square Berlin East
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Galeries Lafayette
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BERLIN STORE
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Vielfach Berlin -Das Kreativkaufhaus-
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Shop Passage im Humboldt Forum
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Berlin Loves You
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Mall of Berlin
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I love Berlin
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Redbear Berlin
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ausberlin
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Hackesche Höfe
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The Playce
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AMPELMANN shop in the Hackescher Markt
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BERLIN Store - MUDDASTADT GmbH
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Newton Bar
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Charlie's Beach
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Windhorst
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meisterschueler
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Berlin Icebar
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TheCoven Bar
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The Curtain Club
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X-Terrain
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Knutschfleck Berlin
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Bar Amélie
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Posh Bar
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Bierbar Alkopole
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My Bar ICI
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Melody Nelson bar
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Gittis Bier-Bar
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Nightclubs & after hour spots
BRICKS Club
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Hafenbar Berlin
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Flow Bar/Club - Berlin
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M-BIA Club Berlin
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Ritter Butzke
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Prince Charles
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Sage Club - Berlin
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Golden Gate
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Tresor Berlin I Club & label
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OHM
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Gretchen
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House of Weekend
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Sky Club - Berlin
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ASeven Club & Eventlocation
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Surprise Club & Disco Berlin
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