Bucket list experience:
The Stasi was the dreaded secret police and intelligence agency of East Germany, responsible for surveillance, repression, and maintaining the authoritarian regime during the Cold War, before the fall of the Berlin Wall brought an end to Germany’s division.
This museum, located in the Stasi’s former headquarters, offers visitors a comprehensive view of the agency’s methods, tactics, and the extent of their control over citizens’ lives.
Exhibits include preserved offices, surveillance equipment, and personal accounts of those affected by the Stasi’s activities. Visitors can explore the complex web of informants, the pervasive surveillance apparatus, and the psychological techniques employed by the Stasi.
The museum’s displays serve as a chilling and stark reminder of the consequences of state control, the importance of protecting individual freedoms, and the appalling atrocities that human beings can inflict upon one another.
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Destination Guide >Our writer’s picks of the best places to stay near this experience, closest first
Berlin, Germany[2.9 miles]
Clever Manhattan-style blend of hostel and upmarket hotel in post-industrial surroundings, with an excellent in-house organic restaurant. Great for singles, the socially-minded and hip partygoers.
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Berlin, Germany[5.4 miles]
A superb apartment hotel, with 72 self-contained luxury apartments, conveniently located for Berlin best attractions, bars and shopping.
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Berlin, Germany[5.8 miles]
A quirky chic boutique hotel that blends simple luxury and hip Spanish design in a killer Mitte location. In the heart of the city’s buzz.
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Berlin, Germany[5.9 miles]
The gorgeously understated Amano offers a soothing, affordable designer option in uber-trendy Mitte.
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Destination guides including or relevant to this experience
Germany
Europe’s hippest capital boasts non-stop nightlife, cutting-edge fashion, cosmopolitan eats and museum treasures galore.
Our writer’s recommendations of other bucket list experiences our writer says you must do in this destination, closest first
Berlin, Germany[3.4 miles]
Visually captivating, mile-long segment of the former Wall, now adorned with paintings by 118 artists. The largest open-air gallery in the world.
Best for ages: 8+ | Free
Berlin, Germany[5.6 miles]
Germany’s most fertile art city spans all eras, from ancient treasures to cutting-edge contemporary. One of the world’s great art destinations.
Best for ages: 13+ | Free
Berlin, Germany[5.8 miles]
An extraordinary UNESCO World Cultural Heritage Site home to five world-class museums, covering 6,000 years of cultural and art history. An essential stop on any Berlin itinerary.
Best for ages: 18+ | £20
Berlin, Germany[6.1 miles]
This gallery showcases one of the world’s largest collections of 19th-century sculpture and paintings, with additional collections of neoclassical, Romantic, Impressionist and early Modernist artwork.
Best for ages: 18+ | £10
Other worthwhile experiences near this experience if you have time or interest..
Berlin, Germany[2.9 miles]
This repurposed cargo container moored in the Spree river is Berlin’s quirkiest swimming option. Daytime is perfect for a relaxed swim and sunbathing. DJs are let loose in the beach bar after nightfall, when parties spill over from the Arena disco opposite. In winter, it transforms into a spa with heated pool, two Finnish saunas and cocktail lounge under a series of tunnel-like tents. Open daily, all year round.
Best for ages: 8+ | £6 | 1+ hours
Berlin, Germany[3 miles]
This renowned techno nightclub has become an iconic institution in the city – and Europe’s – nightlife scene. Housed in a former power plant, it’s known for its industrial aesthetics, massive dance floors, an exceptional sound system, and a strict door policy – leading to its reputation as one of the most exclusive and selective clubs in the world.
Best for ages: 18+ | £15
Berlin, Germany[3.1 miles]
This former prison of the Stasi, the notorious East German secret police, is a chilling memorial to the brutality of the Cold War, and a poignant testament to the appalling acts humans can commit against one another.
Best for ages: 13+ | £5
Berlin, Germany[4 miles]
Berlin’s main foodie hub is this vibrant food market showcasing a wide array of fresh local produce and international delicacies. Downstairs, you’ll find craft brewery Heidenpeter’s.
Best for ages: 13+ | Free
