Timeline
14:51
Start with a pre-dinner schnitzel at Borchardt. This historic restaurant has been serving the rich and famous since 1895. The Fin de siècle decor sets a grand tone for the evening. Arrive early to secure a table before the sunset crowd arrives.
16:06
Walk to the Bode Museum. The museum’s treasures include the sculpture collection with works of art from the middle ages to the 18th century. The Bode museum is best known for its Byzantine art collection and the coin cabinet. Position yourself near the river-facing windows or the terrace to watch the sun dip below the horizon.
17:06
Head to Clärchens Ballhaus. This traditional dance hall and restaurant was established in 1913. It is one of the few surviving Berlin ballrooms from the pre-WW1 era, featuring a hall of mirrors. The garden closes at 23:00, so move inside where the hot food is served until 22:30 and dance starts at 21:00. Entrance is usually free on weeknights.
Local tip
The Bode Museum is open until 18:00 on weekdays except Thursday. Since sunset is at 16:21 in January, you will not be able to enter the museum after the golden light moment. Use the exterior or the café area if you wish to stay, or simply enjoy the view from the outside terrace which is accessible.
Check before you go
- Borchardt requires decent clothing and reservations are recommended.
- Clärchens Ballhaus hot food is served until 22:30. The garden closes at 23:00.
- Bode Museum hours: Mo-We, Fr-Su 10:00-18:00; Th 10:00-20:00.
Built from places in the Wikivoyage guide to Berlin (CC BY-SA 4.0), with open map data from OpenStreetMap contributors (ODbL).