East Side Gallery Photos
Recommended Reviews - East Side Gallery
Start your review...
Reviews With Photos
Must-see recommendation for anyone visiting Berlin: The East Side Gallery is a section of the Berlin Wall that has been transformed into the world's longest open-air gallery, stretching for a little less than a mile. It's a scenic way to get some steps in while experiencing a piece of history. Getting there was very easy; it's just a short walk from the Ostbahnhof station. The gallery wall is intended to symbolize joy over the end of Germany's division, but also serves as a reminder of the inhumanity of the border regime. Each mural was created by artists from around the world, making it a truly unique experience. The gallery is open 24/7 and admission is free. Berlin is full of history, and this is one place I absolutely recommend visiting.
Numbers: - 28.9.1990 the date this open air gallery first opened. - 118 artists contributed, creating murals that reflected on the political and social transformation of the times, a monument to the fall of the wall and joining of the country after division. - 21 countries the artists hailed from. - 1316 meters (4318 feet) the length of the wall standing, the longest continuous section left after it was torn down. - 1996, 2000, 2009 restoration efforts made by artists' initiatives, since the murals are outdoors and exposed to the elements. The repainting was able to restore most though not all of the paintings. - 2018 City of Berlin takes over maintenance efforts of the gallery. - 365-24-7 open all year, everyday, at all hours since the gallery is outside. Thank you to the East Side Gallery for documenting the sentiments of artists at such a pivotal moment in history, and providing a way to share hope for unity and peace. I really enjoyed walking along and seeing all the different designs, styles, colors. On an autumn morning at 10am there were a fair number of people viewing the wall, especially the more popular pieces. People were generally courteous and lining up to take photos, it took about 10 minutes to wait in front of Dmitri Vrubel's Fraternal Kiss, everything else there generally wasn't a wait. In total if you walk the entire length of the wall at a brisk pace, taking a few stops for photos it will take about 15-20 minutes, though a more leisurely stroll could take 30-35 minutes. There is also a Berlin Wall Museum located at the southern end of the wall section, this is a fairly small museum featuring history of the wall (€9.99 online tickets, €12.50 in person, open 10am-7pm daily), though i didn't check it out personally. East Side Gallery is easily accessible by all forms of transit, street parking and nearby parking structures are available. Closest public transportation options include a number of buses, Ubahn (Warshauer Straße and Ostbahnhof) and Sbahn (Schlesisches Tor). Osbahnhof is also a Deutche Bahn regional train station.
I grew up listening to Pink Floyd, knowing there was both a metaphysical and actual wall; a physical barrier put up to cordon people so they could be separated and controlled. Walking around Berlin, you see these cold concrete slabs sticking out, like errant teeth in a face that had taken far too many punches. When you stand next to a piece of the wall you invariably push against it a little, wondering if it would budge; it does not. The smoothness doesn't allow for a single notch to grip into should you attempt to scale. And the height, up close, is daunting. The east side gallery is the largest, contiguous piece of the wall still in tact. There the bleeding hearts and artists make their stand. The murals range from intriguing to gob-smashingly poignant. We stayed at a hotel right along the wall and walked by several time, looking at every facade. It was within my lifetime that the wall was a divider of families and freedom. Encircling the communist portion of Berlin to keep people from fleeing to the west. The flames are all long gone, but the pain lingers on.
Beautiful art. Really love how something that spent so many years dividing Berlin is now something peaceful and lovely. The pieces of wall all over the city and the bits that have been crumbled are such a strong reminder of how politics can divide humanity. Very awing experience. A must see.
Can't-miss experience in your Berlin itinerary. Not only is the wall itself amazing to look at, you can take breaks along the Spree to enjoy the water, ambiance, a beverage, and more. It's truly a wonderful way to spend an afternoon. You'll see famous fragments here and the stretch of wall is pretty lengthy. There is a museum at the entrance that we opted not to stop in, but even without it this takes a good 1-2 hours to stroll. Inspiration, art, fellow onlookers. What's not to love? This side of town is a TON of fun so make a full day of it. We did Checkpoint Charlie, Kreuztown, the Boxhagener Platz market, and this all in one day. Great mix of both history and culture! Enjoy!
The Berlin Wall turned art gallery was quite the site. There were some incredibly moving pieces and statements to take in. The stretch ends in an area with many quite bite food stops, meaning you can fuel up before moving to your next stop. I will note that the reverse side of the wall was unsightly. That said, the gallery side was free of grafiti & i can appreciate that. (I've added one picture of it) I fell in love with this city by day 2.
You could be looking for something to do, something to mark off of your list, or something to liven up the last portion of your day. The East side gallery isn't a huge sight to behold, one of significant historical value, but not something you'll be stunned by having seen at night when you go to sleep. The wall is painted in many different murals, the length is one you can walk or ride a scooter down, and the view of the river makes for the suggestion of a nice picnic reasonable for the end of a long day. 8/10. Visited Jan 2025
Outstanding open-air graffiti art on the remains of the Berlin Wall. Over 100 artists represented from around the world. A fabulous stroll and pause to admire, squint, appreciate, laugh, and, at times, disgusted of the panel of artwork. Jotted down and took photos on a few that caught my immediate attention. Learning more about the artist and their message in time. Crowded it was this Sunday afternoon. Am planning on visiting this remarkable gallery in the early hours when in Berlin next! CHEERS!
Hard to beat what you are able to see here! Its all about history. Being from the class of 92' I was moved by finally being able to touch, see and feel the history that I remember happening on that historic day so many years ago. Between all the "graffiti" style art and the stories on placards surrounding that art, I was immersed in Berlin and it's storied history in the flesh. This is a must see if you end up in Berlin. We left awed and reflective of a time not so far past. I was very thankful to be able to see all this firsthand!
A piece of history turned into art. Great walk and photo ops There's also shops and such along the wall
Really touristy attraction but was still cool to visit. Took about 40 minutes on the bus from the main city center, but it takes you right there. Lots of people but not too bad especially because the street is pretty long. Would recommend if you have time to make the trip there.
Cool part of the city and history and everything is free. It's something to see and a good place for walking and sightseeing. It's a unique place and everyone should stop here at some point. It's full of random opinions and political views.
I can't imagine giving this "free" outdoor art gallery history walk less than 5 stars. When I was in the 2nd grade our class took a field trip to view the fully intact wall. ( Viewed from afar) We were told stories of how many people died trying to cross. When the wall finally came down I vowed to visit the city one day. It's 1.3 kilometers with 118 artist from 21 countries. The longest continuous section of the Berlin Wall in existence. I actually went on a Saturday and came back on Monday. I would highly recommend it if you like art and history. Also it's close to the water so it can be pretty on nice days.
10 months ago
The Eastside Gallery is a MUST STOP when visiting the Hauptstadt Berlin. If only to come see the mural "My God, Help Me to Survive This Deadly Love" by Dmitri Vrubel. Recently, Berlin foodie stop Curry 61 did a funny parody, see photos. This section of the former Berlin Wall, has over a hundred mural on this lone remaining section on Mühlenstraße along the Spree River. read more
East Side Gallery is not really what is commonly thought of as an, "Art Gallery." What it is, is a long section of wall where various artist exhibit their work by creating one of their pieces on the wall. Yes, it is a little bit strange. East Side Gallery is a really a very long wall. There are a lot of artists that have their work showing on this wall. Just like beauty in in the eye of the beholder, so is art. Some of the work along this wall is very good. Others, not so much. All this being said, it is an interesting concept. And, it is something that you should see if you are in Berlin. Just don't get your hopes up to experience something truly revolutionary or cutting edge. Remember, it's just a wall with a bunch of paintings on it. read more
1 year ago
Must-see recommendation for anyone visiting Berlin: The East Side Gallery is a section of the Berlin Wall that has been transformed into the world's longest open-air gallery, stretching for a little less than a mile. It's a scenic way to get some steps in while experiencing a piece of history. Getting there was very easy; it's just a short walk from the Ostbahnhof station. The gallery wall is intended to symbolize joy over the end of Germany's division, but also serves as a reminder of the inhumanity of the border regime. Each mural was created by artists from around the world, making it a truly unique experience. The gallery is open 24/7 and admission is free. Berlin is full of history, and this is one place I absolutely recommend visiting. read more
Numbers: - 28.9.1990 the date this open air gallery first opened. - 118 artists contributed, creating murals that reflected on the political and social transformation of the times, a monument to the fall of the wall and joining of the country after division. - 21 countries the artists hailed from. - 1316 meters (4318 feet) the length of the wall standing, the longest continuous section left after it was torn down. - 1996, 2000, 2009 restoration efforts made by artists' initiatives, since the murals are outdoors and exposed to the elements. The repainting was able to restore most though not all of the paintings. - 2018 City of Berlin takes over maintenance efforts of the gallery. - 365-24-7 open all year, everyday, at all hours since the gallery is outside. Thank you to the East Side Gallery for documenting the sentiments of artists at such a pivotal moment in history, and providing a way to share hope for unity and peace. I really enjoyed walking along and seeing all the different designs, styles, colors. On an autumn morning at 10am there were a fair number of people viewing the wall, especially the more popular pieces. People were generally courteous and lining up to take photos, it took about 10 minutes to wait in front of Dmitri Vrubel's Fraternal Kiss, everything else there generally wasn't a wait. In total if you walk the entire length of the wall at a brisk pace, taking a few stops for photos it will take about 15-20 minutes, though a more leisurely stroll could take 30-35 minutes. There is also a Berlin Wall Museum located at the southern end of the wall section, this is a fairly small museum featuring history of the wall (€9.99 online tickets, €12.50 in person, open 10am-7pm daily), though i didn't check it out personally. East Side Gallery is easily accessible by all forms of transit, street parking and nearby parking structures are available. Closest public transportation options include a number of buses, Ubahn (Warshauer Straße and Ostbahnhof) and Sbahn (Schlesisches Tor). Osbahnhof is also a Deutche Bahn regional train station. read more
I grew up listening to Pink Floyd, knowing there was both a metaphysical and actual wall; a physical barrier put up to cordon people so they could be separated and controlled. Walking around Berlin, you see these cold concrete slabs sticking out, like errant teeth in a face that had taken far too many punches. When you stand next to a piece of the wall you invariably push against it a little, wondering if it would budge; it does not. The smoothness doesn't allow for a single notch to grip into should you attempt to scale. And the height, up close, is daunting. The east side gallery is the largest, contiguous piece of the wall still in tact. There the bleeding hearts and artists make their stand. The murals range from intriguing to gob-smashingly poignant. We stayed at a hotel right along the wall and walked by several time, looking at every facade. It was within my lifetime that the wall was a divider of families and freedom. Encircling the communist portion of Berlin to keep people from fleeing to the west. The flames are all long gone, but the pain lingers on. read more
1 year ago
Beautiful art. Really love how something that spent so many years dividing Berlin is now something peaceful and lovely. The pieces of wall all over the city and the bits that have been crumbled are such a strong reminder of how politics can divide humanity. Very awing experience. A must see. read more
Can't-miss experience in your Berlin itinerary. Not only is the wall itself amazing to look at, you can take breaks along the Spree to enjoy the water, ambiance, a beverage, and more. It's truly a wonderful way to spend an afternoon. You'll see famous fragments here and the stretch of wall is pretty lengthy. There is a museum at the entrance that we opted not to stop in, but even without it this takes a good 1-2 hours to stroll. Inspiration, art, fellow onlookers. What's not to love? This side of town is a TON of fun so make a full day of it. We did Checkpoint Charlie, Kreuztown, the Boxhagener Platz market, and this all in one day. Great mix of both history and culture! Enjoy! read more
The Berlin Wall turned art gallery was quite the site. There were some incredibly moving pieces and statements to take in. The stretch ends in an area with many quite bite food stops, meaning you can fuel up before moving to your next stop. I will note that the reverse side of the wall was unsightly. That said, the gallery side was free of grafiti & i can appreciate that. (I've added one picture of it) I fell in love with this city by day 2. read more
2 years ago
You could be looking for something to do, something to mark off of your list, or something to liven up the last portion of your day. The East side gallery isn't a huge sight to behold, one of significant historical value, but not something you'll be stunned by having seen at night when you go to sleep. The wall is painted in many different murals, the length is one you can walk or ride a scooter down, and the view of the river makes for the suggestion of a nice picnic reasonable for the end of a long day. 8/10. Visited Jan 2025 read more
3 years ago
Outstanding open-air graffiti art on the remains of the Berlin Wall. Over 100 artists represented from around the world. A fabulous stroll and pause to admire, squint, appreciate, laugh, and, at times, disgusted of the panel of artwork. Jotted down and took photos on a few that caught my immediate attention. Learning more about the artist and their message in time. Crowded it was this Sunday afternoon. Am planning on visiting this remarkable gallery in the early hours when in Berlin next! CHEERS! read more
3 years ago
Hard to beat what you are able to see here! Its all about history. Being from the class of 92' I was moved by finally being able to touch, see and feel the history that I remember happening on that historic day so many years ago. Between all the "graffiti" style art and the stories on placards surrounding that art, I was immersed in Berlin and it's storied history in the flesh. This is a must see if you end up in Berlin. We left awed and reflective of a time not so far past. I was very thankful to be able to see all this firsthand! read more
3 years ago
A piece of history turned into art. Great walk and photo ops There's also shops and such along the wall read more
Really touristy attraction but was still cool to visit. Took about 40 minutes on the bus from the main city center, but it takes you right there. Lots of people but not too bad especially because the street is pretty long. Would recommend if you have time to make the trip there. read more
Cool part of the city and history and everything is free. It's something to see and a good place for walking and sightseeing. It's a unique place and everyone should stop here at some point. It's full of random opinions and political views. read more
I can't imagine giving this "free" outdoor art gallery history walk less than 5 stars. When I was in the 2nd grade our class took a field trip to view the fully intact wall. ( Viewed from afar) We were told stories of how many people died trying to cross. When the wall finally came down I vowed to visit the city one day. It's 1.3 kilometers with 118 artist from 21 countries. The longest continuous section of the Berlin Wall in existence. I actually went on a Saturday and came back on Monday. I would highly recommend it if you like art and history. Also it's close to the water so it can be pretty on nice days. read more
We walked the whole length of the East Side Gallery- 1,316 m (4,318 ft). It consists of a series of murals by 118 artists from 21 countries. Most of the paintings had been graffitied/ vandalized and needed to be restored. There was a line for the most popular mural- "Fraternal Kiss." I'm glad they were able to utilize the wall to create public art. It's a must see attraction in Berlin. read more
What do you do with a ugly wall, symbol of division and suffering? Turn it into a beautiful art gallery, symbol of unity and joy! They say this is the longest section of the Berlin Wall still standing, and a great "good weather" things to do. Bring your patience in order to navigate through the crowd looking for the perfect instagrammable photo (we spent about an hour on a slow walk). read more
Does anyone know the song So Good by B.o.B.? If so, remember these lyrics? "We'll hit up Europe, yep, and spend some Euros And maybe visit Berlin, the walls with the murals" This is what pops into my head when I think about the Berlin wall. I finally was able to make my way here recently and loved strolling around checking out all the artwork. In the setting of its crazy history, experiencing this landmark/gallery first-hand with your own eyes is a must in someone's lifetime. If you're going to do one thing in Berlin, this has got to be it. read more
2 years ago
History needs to be told, sometimes we need to take history with a sense of humor. This is a must see attraction if you come to Berlin. This is a large remaining section of the Berlin Wall that people have put art work on. read more
7 years ago
Outstanding well maintained mural wall that once separated East from West Berlin. The 1km walk is even more poignant and sullen done at night--street lights are adequate to light the artwork. The regular traffic keep you company while you contemplate the significance of this installation. Bring along a burgermeister burger or a doner kebab to munch on enroute and something to drink, and use the WC ahead of time. read more
This is the longest stretch of the Berlin Wall that is still intact. It's over a mile long so bring your walking shoes. The East Side Gallery presents the wall in a different light. While the Berlin Wall Monument and the Berlin Wall Memorial are somber memories of the past and enduring symbols of pain and suffering, the gallery here presents the many facets of the Berlin Wall and the Cold War in an artistic manner, and often full of satire. The graffiti that many people referred to are on the other side of the wall (the side facing the river) and is NOT part of the artwork of the gallery. The gallery side is definitely worth your time to take a look and to appreciate the thoughts and the talent of the artists. Some of them send a clear message, and some messages are more subtle. If you take the time to look at some of the artwork carefully, you can often appreciate the satire that is sharper than the sword. Berlin. A divided city. 1961 - 1989. read more
7 years ago
8 years ago
I totally enjoyed walking down that whole strip and and seeing the artwork by so many different artist from so many different countries It helped that my hotel was right across the street from the gallery and prompted me to really explore The walk is good and the sidewalk allows many people to pass this coming and going from either direction. I gave this a five star because I like art however I did notice some of the artwork got tainted with graffiti however Berlin has lots of graffiti so don't be surprised ....Enjoy the walk..go down to the water...take lots of pics! read more
This is an eye-popping gallery of FREE street art with a relic of Communist Eastern Europe as the canvas. Bring comfortable walking shoes because this is the longest open-air gallery in the world. The art is politically charged and provocative, and so colorful in both words and visuals that your camera is a must-have. Some of the portions of the wall and its art have been defaced by vandals with garden variety graffiti (what kind of terrible person would do that?) so in order to protect the remaining pieces, ugly chain link fences have been put up around the wall. This drastically takes away from the art, but it doesn't lessen the effect too much. Even if you aren't a fan of street art, check this out. Fans of this type of art should allow at least two hours to leisurely walk the entire gallery. read more
A must-see landmark in Berlin. Saw both sides of the wall and walked through the entire length of what's left over. Spent the whole morning reflecting on its historical significance. Attached are a few photos of murals that spoke to us. read more
8 years ago
A visit to Berlin is not complete without a visit to the East Side Gallery. I consider this a must see, local treasure of the area. It will also bring you to East Berlin which I know some travelers stay on the West Side. The east is very " hip", a cultural melting pot and has so much character. Take some time, 1-2 hours to slowly stroll down the gallery and enjoy the art and culture it has to offer. Pro-tip be careful of other pedestrians and bikers. Although the art is beautiful, don't be that person blocking the locals that aren't on vacation and need to get to work! read more
Fascinating to know that the gallery goes along the old wall from before. So much creativity along these walls, not one like the other. If you appreciate art and history, definitely make your time to see this. It's a really nice stroll and the artwork is quite amazing! read more
8 years ago
11 years ago
One of my beautifully artistic & historical monuments I've ever seen. The wall speaks volume and stretches for miles. I am grateful to have experienced all its glory. The wall is dope to say the least. read more
History and art collide at the East Side Gallery. Absolutely one of the best ways to spend an afternoon in Berlin, especially if the weather is pleasant. (Though if it was cold or raining, I would have stuck it out.) It's interesting to see different artistic expressions and to observe how visitors interact with different pieces. It's also refreshing that no admission ticket is necessary and there are few if any souvenirs peddlers (though if you're really dead set on buying something, any number of tourist shops in the city would be more than happy to sell you a spray painted stone for twenty euro or so.) Grifters flock here so you have to be vigilant, but that's true of any major attraction in Europe. read more
Ugh. I'm just gonna say it: Berlin has a graffiti problem. I don't mean cool graffiti either. I mean graffiti that reads "urinal" or "bieber" or "merida 5/9/14". That is: graffiti which is neither interesting nor artistic. The East Side Gallery is the longest existing stretch of wall remaining in Berlin and it's covered on one side by the artwork of many artists, each designated with a section on which to paint. The reverse side of the wall is covered in graffiti of the somewhat artistic variety. I am not bitching about the reverse side; have at it. But the side painted by artists who weren't doing graffiti art? Put away your Sharpies folks. It's art to be enjoyed, not written upon. Sadly, all that writing strips away any enjoyment of this artwork that I might otherwise have experienced. Look at the photos and see for yourself. Unless the painting is incredibly dense (thus able to mask the graffiti) or recently painted over, it was covered with graffiti and that ruined it for me. Want to see the Berlin Wall and understand what you're looking at? Better to go to Gedenkstätte Berliner Mauer where you can see not only portions of the wall but get the whole story of the wall laid out for you outdoors, in a very clear, concise, and informative fashion. There is something to be learned at the Gedenkstätte Berliner Mauer and nothing to be learned at the East Side Gallery. Oh, wait: I learned that art is ruined for me when it is covered in meaningless, artless graffiti. Lonely Planet lists the East Side Gallery as a Berlin must-see. I beg to differ unless and until that graffiti problem gets resolved and the art is returned to the state in which it was intended to be seen. East Side Gallery is outdoors and free and lacking any explanatory plaques or descriptors so, on the plus side, checking it out won't tax either your brain or your wallet. read more
Definitely a surreal experience visiting pieces of the Berlin Wall. Having heard learned so much about this historical structure in school it's overwhelming to think of the history behind this. There are few remaining segments of the wall in Berlin. Almost all of them have graffiti or gum stuck all over it. There's also postings of the history written on the wall. I feel like this is something you have to see while you're in Germany. It holds too much history and meaning for you not to see it. read more
Imagine being forcefully separated from your own country men by a concrete wall topped by barbed wire fences, a bed of nails and surrounded by watchtower guards whom are ordered to "shoot to kill" anyone who crosses over to the other side. The Berlin Wall, which separated the city in an Eastern and Western part, was the symbol of the Cold War. Built by the goverment of the DDR to prevent East Germans from escaping to the West, most of the Berlin Wall has been demolished since 1989. Parts of the Wall can still be viewed and the most famous one is the 1316m long East Side Gallery. It is located along Mühlenstrasse between Warschauer Strasse and the Ostbahnhof. It contains 106 paintings. Becuase we took a free walking tour, we viewed parts of the wall on Zimmerstrasse near Checkpoint Charlie. I highly recommend taking this route because you can kill two birds with one stone (i.e. Checkpoint Charlie) and also, the free tour allows you to delve deeper into the wall's history with interesting stories on how East Berliners tried to escape: stuffing themselves into the seats of the Trabant, a famous acrobat walked on a tightrope that ran over the guard's watch towers, a couple made a hot air balloon, etc. The stories are amazing, intriguing, inspiring. Be sure NOT to miss this part of history. read more
10 years ago
I would like to believe that the reason why they painted the east side of the Berlin Wall is because Art is left to self-interpretation! There were so many of the painted pieces along the long wall, it spoke to me and countless words can't seem to ever explain the individual art pieces that are on the long wall! It's so historical, raw, gray, but yet colorful in its own way! Must see when in Berlin! read more
"MR. GORBACHEV, TEAR DOWN YOUR WALL!!" ...exclaimed Reagan in 1987, and down it came a couple of years later. Except for this 1.3-km section that stands as the world's longest piece of public art as well as a memorial for the freedom that the 1989 demolition represented. One reason I came to Berlin was to see what was left of the wall. Not much remains except for a small stretch near Checkpoint Charlie and then this longer section that has one mural after another making some one statement or another (see various photos). It's most definitely worth the stroll as some are quite arresting. others a bit baffling. The most famous has to be the mural of the infamous kiss between Soviet leader Leonid Brezhnev and East German leader Erich Honecker as tour buses congregate around that one the most (see photo). Make sure to check out the back side of the wall where graffiti artists have taken over. In fact, I captured one with a black spray can contributing his art to the jumbled patterns. Take the S-Bahn to Ostbahnhof station. It's free. read more
3 years ago
Ah, the Berlin Wall! I enjoy wall art and no, I'm not talking about those stupid graffiti with senseless and pointless reference to gangs and products of sheer boredom. But tags that actually took time to create that involve thought and meaning (usually political). This is a long stretch of just that. It's colorful and it reminds us of the Cold War when East and West Berlin were divided. The most important and popular parts: "My God, Help Me Survive This Deadly Love" aka "Fraternal Kiss" by Dmitri Vrubel showing Brezhnev and Honecker kissing, and a tag of Berlin. But the other parts are interesting as well. There's a part with red footprints - reminds me of a horror story I heard as a kid that involves bloody feet, ugh! On the other side of the wall are less interesting stuff but if you look carefully enough, you might see something interesting. read more
Page 1 of 7
More info about East Side Gallery
Mühlenstr. 3 - 100
10243 Berlin
Germany
Friedrichshain
Directions
0172 3918726
Call Now
Visit Website
http://www.eastsidegallery-berlin.com
Hours
Indoor Amenities
Other Amenities
East Side Gallery Reviews in Other Languages
Review Highlights - East Side Gallery
Why does Yelp recommend reviews?
19 reviews that are not currently recommended
The reviews below are not factored into the business's overall star rating.
10 years ago
12 years ago
11 years ago
14 years ago
13 years ago
11 years ago
10 years ago
7 years ago
9 years ago
11 years ago
13 years ago
13 years ago
14 years ago
9 years ago
9 years ago
14 years ago
11 years ago
14 years ago
14 years ago
