In the 18th century, Frederik the Great ordered the transformation of Unter den Linden from a simple bridle path to a major boulevard. In the years that followed, many of the city’s most important buildings and monuments were constructed along the route. Visitors can see the Berlin Cathedral, State Opera House, German Historical Museum, and more. Many choose to join a guided walking or Segway tour to learn more about the buildings along the boulevard. Or, arrive independently via the hop-on hop-off sightseeing bus. The street was damaged extensively during the Second World War, and when the Berlin Wall was built in 1961, it put Unter den Linden and the Brandenburg Gate in the East side under communist rule. In the years since reunification, many buildings have been restored to their former glory and the café-lined boulevard is once again a jewel in the city’s crown.
Unter den Linden is located in the Mitte district in central Berlin. Guided tours of the city visit the area frequently, some with transport provided, and it’s walkable from many other central locations. You may also arrive via the hop-on hop-off sightseeing bus. The closest metro stops are Brandenburger Tor and Franzosische Strasse.
A public street, Unter den Linden is open 24 hours a day. The shops, restaurants, cafés, museums, and theaters along the street have different opening hours, so check before visiting.
Berlin’s Brandenburg Gate was built in the 18th century to celebrate the restoration of royal rule after the Batavian Revolution. During the Cold War, it was surrounded by the Berlin Wall, and after reunification, it became a symbol of a united Berlin. Climb to the top and see the monumental statue of the goddess of victory in her chariot; French Emperor Napoleon once stole it to put on display in the Louvre Museum.
