Kaiser Wilhelm Memorial Church Tours and Activities

Kaiser Wilhelm Memorial Church showing religious aspects, interior views and a church or cathedral
Kaiser Wilhelm Memorial Church
Kaiser Wilhelm Memorial Church which includes interior views, religious aspects and a church or cathedral
Kaiser Wilhelm Memorial Church
Kaiser Wilhelm Memorial Church showing a church or cathedral, religious elements and interior views


The ruins of a Protestant church stand next to a modern place of worship, creating a scene that captures the destruction, and the regrowth, that comes from war.

Kaiser Wilhelm Memorial Church, also known as Gedächtniskirche, is a famous landmark in Charlottenburg, the centre of former West Berlin. Allied forces bombed the late 19th-century neo-Romanesque church in 1943 during World War II. A new octagonal church tower was built beside the ruins of the church in the early 1960s. Visit the old church tower and the modern bell tower to see a symbol of Berlin’s destruction and determination to rebuild.

Kaiser Wilhelm II built the Kaiser Wilhelm Memorial Church in honour of his grandfather, the former German Emperor and King of Prussia. Admire the church’s ornate details and notice how the building contrasts with the surrounding modern shopping district. The church was almost burned to the ground after it was bombed in 1943. The damaged entrance hall and spire, known locally as the “hollow tooth,” was preserved and two new structures were built on either side of the ruins.

Explore the modern church and its foyer to discover the eye-catching interiors of the building. The octagonal church features a beautiful honeycomb of blue, red and yellow-colored glass inlays. See the figure of Christ and the gilt-silver and crystal-encrusted cross on the altar.

On the other side of the ruins, find the immense 173.8-foot (53-metre) bell tower and its chapel. The belfry has six bronze bells, which can be heard ringing for different festive, worship or commemorative occasions.

Visit the memorial hall housed inside the damaged original church spire. See intricate biblical mosaics and bas-relief sculptures. Discover 16 panels that represent the church’s history and its destruction, as well as symbols portraying war and peace.

Kaiser Wilhelm Memorial Church is located in Breitscheidplatz in Berlin’s Charlottenburg district, near to the Berlin Zoologischer Garten. Entry to the church is free. Services are scheduled twice a day on Sundays. The church is open daily and regularly hosts concerts, such as choral and organ recitals, in the modern structure.

Join a free 30-minute tour around the church and memorial or book a group tour for a small fee.  Check the Kaiser Wilhelm Memorial Church official website for details on the times and departure point for the free tours.

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Top Kaiser Wilhelm Memorial Church Hotel & Accommodation Deals

Hotel Berlin, Berlin, a member of Radisson Individuals

Hotel Berlin, Berlin, a member of Radisson Individuals

Lützowplatz 17, Berlin, BE
Hotel Berlin, Berlin, a member of Radisson Individuals
InterContinental Berlin by IHG

InterContinental Berlin by IHG

Budapester Str. 2, Berlin, BE
InterContinental Berlin by IHG
Best Western Plus Plaza Berlin Kurfuerstendamm

Best Western Plus Plaza Berlin Kurfuerstendamm

Kurfürstendamm 203, Berlin, BE
Best Western Plus Plaza Berlin Kurfuerstendamm
Hotel Riu Plaza Berlin

Hotel Riu Plaza Berlin

Martin Luther Strasse 1, Berlin, Berlin
Hotel Riu Plaza Berlin
Scandic Berlin Kurfürstendamm

Scandic Berlin Kurfürstendamm

Augsburger Str. 5, Berlin, BE
Scandic Berlin Kurfürstendamm
DoubleTree by Hilton Berlin Ku'damm

DoubleTree by Hilton Berlin Ku'damm

Los-Angeles-Platz 1, Berlin, BE
DoubleTree by Hilton Berlin Ku'damm
Pullman Berlin Schweizerhof

Pullman Berlin Schweizerhof

Budapester Str. 25, Berlin, BE
Pullman Berlin Schweizerhof
Dorint Kurfürstendamm Berlin

Dorint Kurfürstendamm Berlin

Augsburger Str. 41, Berlin, BE
Dorint Kurfürstendamm Berlin
Hotel Aldea Berlin Centrum

Hotel Aldea Berlin Centrum

Bülowstraße 20-22, Berlin, BE
Hotel Aldea Berlin Centrum
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

Things to do near Kaiser Wilhelm Memorial Church

Explore the vibrant atmosphere around Kaiser Wilhelm Memorial Church, where you can indulge in art and theatre, as well as enjoy shopping at nearby malls. Don’t miss the chance to unwind at a wellness centre, making your visit a perfect blend of relaxation and cultural experiences in the heart of Berlin.

Shopping

While visiting the Kaiser Wilhelm Memorial Church, check out Kaufhaus des Westens, only 483m away for a unique shopping experience. The Mall of Berlin, located 3.2km away, offers a vibrant mix of entertainment and shopping. If you're up for a drive, Chamissoplatz public market is about 4.8km away.

Recreation

Experience the Berliner Philharmonie, renowned for its stunning architecture and world-class performances, only 3.2km from the Kaiser Wilhelm Memorial Church. Enjoy the vibrant atmosphere of Blue Man Group Berlin, also 3.2km away, and immerse yourself in the artistic energy of Konzerthaus Berlin, just a short distance away.

Adventure

Experience a thrilling scenic flight at Berlin Hi-Flyer, located 3.2km from Kaiser Wilhelm Memorial Church, offering breathtaking views. For an exciting adventure, try Lasergame Berlin, also 3.2km away, perfect for some competitive fun. If you fancy karting, EFK - Kart - & Eventcenter Berlin, 6.4km away, promises an adrenaline rush.

Nightlife

Experience the vibrant nightlife near Kaiser Wilhelm Memorial Church! Catch a show at the Theatre of the West, only 483m away, or enjoy a performance at Schiller Theatre, 1.4km distant. Don't miss Schaubuehne, a cultural gem just 1.6km from the church, perfect for a romantic evening.

*Distances are measured in a straight line; actual driving distances may vary depending on the route.

Find the best attractions near Kaiser Wilhelm Memorial Church

When visiting the Kaiser Wilhelm Memorial Church in Berlin, immerse yourself in the local culture by exploring nearby attractions such as the Gedächtniskirche, Kurfürstendamm shopping street, and various museums. Whether you're seeking family-friendly activities or a taste of the city's rich history, this area offers a unique blend of experiences, making it an ideal stop for any traveller.

  • Kurfürstendamm: A bustling street filled with vibrant city vibes, Kurfürstendamm offers a mix of high-end shops, cafes, and cultural landmarks. It's perfect for a leisurely stroll or a shopping spree.
  • Potsdamer Platz: This modern square showcases Berlin's contemporary architecture and lively atmosphere. Enjoy the array of entertainment options, from cinemas to restaurants, in this urban hub buzzing with energy.
  • Brandenburg Gate: A historic gate arch that stands as a symbol of unity, Brandenburg Gate exudes cultural significance. Marvel at its neoclassical design and relish the surrounding park area, steeped in history.

Best time to go to Kaiser Wilhelm Memorial Church

The best time to visit Kaiser Wilhelm Memorial Church is dependant on what kind of holiday you are seeking. July and August are its hottest month on average. At the time of August, visitor numbers are average and weather is mostly sunny. January is its coolest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are slightly low and weather is mostly cloudy with no rain (dry).

calendarCalendar MonthtemperatureTemperaturerainPrecipitationmostlyCloudinessoccupationOccupancypricePricing
January33.6°F (0.9°C)No Rain (Dry)Mostly CloudySlightly LowSlightly Low
February35.1°F (1.7°C)No Rain (Dry)Mostly CloudySlightly LowAverage
March41.2°F (5.1°C)No Rain (Dry)Mostly CloudySlightly HighAverage
April49.8°F (9.9°C)No Rain (Dry)Mostly SunnySlightly HighAverage
May57.6°F (14.2°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageSlightly High
June65.7°F (18.7°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageSlightly High
July68.5°F (20.3°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
August68.5°F (20.3°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageSlightly Low
September61.0°F (16.1°C)No Rain (Dry)Mostly SunnyAverageSlightly High
October51.6°F (10.9°C)Light RainMostly CloudySlightly LowAverage
November43.0°F (6.1°C)No Rain (Dry)Mostly CloudyAverageSlightly Low
December36.3°F (2.4°C)Light RainMostly CloudySlightly HighAverage

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Kaiser Wilhelm Memorial Church

To save money on your visit to Kaiser Wilhelm Memorial Church, consider travelling during the cheaper months of January, August, and November, and aim to book your accommodation about a month in advance. Sundays typically offer the best rates, while Wednesdays are the priciest. Use Expedia to compare hotel prices and look for last-minute deals. You can also save by bundling flights, accommodation, and activities in a package deal. For budget-friendly transport, enjoy walking around the area and explore free attractions nearby.

  • The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay around Kaiser Wilhelm Memorial Church are January, August and November, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to May to June and September, where prices are slightly higher.
  • The best time to book a hotel: Book your hotel around Kaiser Wilhelm Memorial Church about 1 month out to secure some of the cheapest prices. If you're the spontaneous type, Expedia's last minute deals and discounts are indicated via the green label below the price.
  • The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay around Kaiser Wilhelm Memorial Church is Sunday. The most expensive day to stay around Kaiser Wilhelm Memorial Church is Wednesday.
  • Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Expedia’s search tool lets you set your budget, choose your desired location, and more. You can organise your results to display prices from lowest to highest, making it easy to find the most affordable accommodation first. Additionally, you have the option to filter by hotel type; for instance, selecting the “Eco-certified” filter will show you a range of sustainable and environmentally friendly hotels available for booking.
  • Consider bundling your trip: You can save money by combining your hotel stay at the Kaiser Wilhelm Memorial Church with your flights and activities through an Expedia package deal.