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Gendarmenmarkt
Photo: Wikimedia Commons
poi · DE

Gendarmenmarkt

Getting around: In central Berlin (Mitte); nearest station is Französische Strasse (U6) or Stadtmitte (U2/U6), a short walk from Unter den Linden.
Hours: Open-air square, accessible 24 hours, free. The German and French Cathedrals have their own visiting hours, generally 10am-6pm, though the Konzerthaus is by performance schedule.

Gendarmenmarkt is widely considered Berlin's most elegant square, framed by the twin domed German and French Cathedrals facing each other across the plaza with the Konzerthaus concert hall between them. Unlike Alexanderplatz's postwar concrete, this is 18th-century Prussian formality, largely rebuilt after WWII damage but true to its original proportions.

It hosts one of Berlin's best Christmas markets in December and occasional outdoor concerts in summer, but on an ordinary day it's simply a quiet, photogenic place to sit and eat lunch away from the tourist crush of the Brandenburg Gate. Climbing the French Cathedral's tower for a rooftop view over the square is a worthwhile detour if it's open.

Gendarmenmarkt FAQs

Can you go inside the cathedrals?

Yes, both the German and French Cathedrals are open to visitors with separate admission for their museum exhibits and, at the French Cathedral, tower access.

Is it free to visit the square?

Yes, the square itself is free and open at all times.

What's the Konzerthaus?

It's Berlin's historic concert hall, home to the Konzerthausorchester, sitting between the two cathedrals; tickets are needed for performances.

When is the Christmas market held?

Typically late November through New Year's Eve, one of the city's more upscale holiday markets.

Is it walkable from the Brandenburg Gate?

Yes, about a 10-15 minute walk along or near Unter den Linden.

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