If you're a fan of classical music — or music in general — and happen to be in Berlin on a Wednesday, you're in luck: from September to June, the Philharmonie opens its doors for a free lunchtime concert every week at its striking building in the Mitte district.
The performance begins at 13:00, with doors opening at 12:00, giving you plenty of time to explore the space, claim a good spot, and grab a bite at the good and inexpensive on-site restaurant — a favourite amongst locals.
The concert takes place in the foyer of the building and while there are a few seats available for seniors and people with special needs, the general rule is: stand or sit wherever you can — on the stairs, upper levels, or even on the floor. I find this contrast — watching a classical concert while sitting cross-legged on the floor among dozens of others — a unique experience in itself.
Each performance lasts about an hour and features members of the Berliner Philharmoniker, as well as guest musicians from other philharmonic orchestras in Germany. Even if you're not much of a classical music connoisseur, this is still a great, relaxing experience - and a rare chance to enjoy the world-class musicians of the Philharmonie without breaking the bank.
Just keep in mind that attendance is limited and these lunchtime concerts are very popular, often filling up quickly. To secure entry, it's best to arrive at least half an hour before the show begins.
Find your way with 217 Insider Tips from our Local Spotters
Loved this Spot?Join your international community. Share your favs and become part of our international community!
"Idealpassage" in Berlin takes you on a historic walk - this passage reveals a complex from a century ago that served as a model for 'social housing'...
by
"Oxfam Schöneberg" in Berlin deals in second-hand books! It offers a surprisingly interesting variety of international books...
by
"Buchhandlung Moritzplatz" in Berlin is hosted by Aufbau Verlag, once the biggest belles-lettres publisher in Easy Germany and still one of my favorites!
by
"Unterwegs" is a magnificent antiquarian bookstore specialised in architecture, photography, Berlin-Brandenburg and travel. Very aesthetically pleasing!
by
"Mauerpark’s Books" in Berlin is perfect for old book lovers - and people who like bargaining for the best price!
by
"Troika" is a nice little bookshop among the Prenzlauer Berg bars and restaurants. It's a little nostalgic treasure - you're lucky if you find it open!
by
"a Livraria" in Berlin gives the street it's one a nice Latin American vibe. An essential shop for Portuguese and Italian language readers in the city...
by
"Prior & Mumpitz" in Berlin is a tiny bookstore next to a ping pong table area specialized in children books - they even have a children's book club!
by
"Moby Dick" in East Berlin makes the street it's on complete: apart from everything else, you can also eat & drink intellectually at this book store!
by
"Antiquariat Wegner" in Berlin is an antiquarian bookstore that's just a paradise for German-speaking books. I admire it profoundly.
by
"Tucholsky-Buchhandlung' in Berlin offers general literature for very reasonable prices. Clients coming to pick up their pre-ordered loves warms my heart!
by
"Winterfeldt Schokoladen" in Berlin offers not only great coffee but also chocolates & some sweet treats! My choice is usually the shamanic chilli cacao...
by
217 Insider Tips from our local Spotters
Authentic Stories by Real People
Escape the Crowd & Travel Slow 🐌
✓ 0 Insider Tips from our local Spotters
✓ 217 Insider Tips