City Sightseeing Berlin: HOHO Bus

City Sightseeing Berlin: HOHO Bus – All Lines & Icebar
Location: Berlin, Germany
Price: $44 per person
Rating: 4.4/5 (based on 5 reviews)
Supplier: City Sightseeing Europe

A quick look at Berlin’s iconic sights with a flexible hop-on hop-off bus
Imagine cruising through Berlin’s wide boulevards on an open-top double-decker, with the wind in your hair and the city unfolding around you. For $44, you get a 24 or 48-hour ticket, giving you the freedom to explore Berlin’s highlights at your pace, hopping on and off at 26 stops dotted across the city. The route covers everything from the historic Brandenburg Gate and the Reichstag to the vibrant Alexanderplatz, with the option to explore East Berlin’s gritty history at the East Side Gallery and Mauerpark.

Two things stand out immediately: the audio commentary in 13 languages makes the city’s stories accessible for everyone, and the entry to Icebar Berlin—where you’ll enjoy three complimentary drinks and marvel at stunning ice sculptures—adds a unique cool twist to your sightseeing.

A potential drawback? The bus tours are scheduled every 25 to 40 minutes depending on the route, which is usually enough but might feel a bit tight during peak times or if you’re eager to maximize sightseeing. Still, this tour is ideal if you want a flexible, all-in-one introduction to Berlin’s most famous landmarks combined with a fun indoor experience. It’s perfect for first-timers wanting a broad overview or travelers who prefer the freedom to customize their day.

Key Points

Flexible sightseeing: 24 or 48-hour hop-on hop-off tickets allow you to explore Berlin at your own pace.
Two routes: Cover all major landmarks and some trendy East Berlin sights, offering a well-rounded perspective.
Audio commentary: Available in 13 languages, making the stories behind the sights more engaging.
Icebar Berlin: Included with your ticket, offering a cool break with three free drinks and stunning ice sculptures.
Convenient stops: 26 strategically placed stops near key attractions like Brandenburg Gate, Checkpoint Charlie, and Alexanderplatz.
Authentic experience: The combination of outdoor sightseeing with indoor ice bar visit offers a memorable mix of Berlin’s history and modern vibe.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Exploring the Route and Stops in Detail

Our journey begins at Stop 1, where the first departure typically occurs at 9:30 am. From there, the classic route takes you past some of Berlin’s most recognizable landmarks. The Brandenburg Gate and Reichstag are highlights, offering quick photo opportunities and spectacular views from the open-top deck. We loved the way the audio guide provided context—stories about the Cold War at Checkpoint Charlie or the history behind Potsdamer Platz—adding depth to what we saw.

The stops at Gendarmenmarkt and Neptunbrunnen are perfect for wandering around charming squares and fountains. The Zoo/Elephant Gate promises a scenic view, especially if you’re a zoo fan, and the Victory Column offers a panoramic view of the city, which is a great spot for photos.

The second route takes you into East Berlin, with sites like the East Side Gallery and Mauerpark. As one reviewer noted, this route offers insights into Berlin’s more recent history, especially the remnants of the Berlin Wall, which are both poignant and thought-provoking. It’s a good choice if you’re interested in the city’s divided past and vibrant street art scene.

Each stop is close enough for a quick exploration, but the flexibility allows you to linger longer at favorites. The bus frequency of about 25 minutes keeps wait times manageable, but during busy periods, you might want to plan your schedule accordingly.

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The Icebar Experience – A Cool Twist

No visit to Berlin would be complete without experiencing the Icebar Berlin. Your ticket includes entry, and you’ll be greeted with three free drinks, which may be a shot of the bartender’s special nougat vodka—a memorable tip from a recent visitor. Inside, an icy landscape of 69,000 kilos of ice surrounds you, with stunning sculptures creating a surreal, chilly environment.

The Icebar is open Tuesday to Sunday from 4 pm, with last admittance approximately an hour before closing. Since your ticket is time-specific, arriving promptly is essential, but the experience is well worth the effort if you’re after something truly different. Note that the Icebar is not just about the cold; it’s about enjoying a unique ambiance and a refreshing break from outdoor sightseeing.

Practical Tips for Making the Most of Your Tour

Start early to enjoy the full 48 hours if you’re staying in Berlin longer.
Wear layers—the open-top bus is fantastic for views but can be chilly, especially if the weather isn’t warm.
Use the audio guide to enrich your experience; it’s available in 13 languages, and you’ll appreciate the background stories more than just the sights.
Plan your Icebar visit ahead of time since it’s a timed ticket and can be very popular during weekends and evenings.
Take advantage of the stops—the city’s landmarks are often within walking distance after you hop off, making this a flexible sightseeing option.

Authentic Insights from Reviews

One traveler, Stephen, described the tour as “Good value for money, very informative,” highlighting the combination of sights and commentary. Conversely, Heidi mentioned a downside: “There is no real way to get in touch with the provider if you have questions,” emphasizing the importance of making sure your booking and questions are sorted before the day.

Another review praised the Icebar visit, mentioning the bartender’s suggestion of nougat vodka and calling it “an exceptional visit.” This highlights how the ice bar adds to the overall enjoyment, especially if you’re after a memorable experience that breaks the usual sightseeing routine.

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Value and Who Will Love This Tour

The $44 price point offers good value considering the all-day flexibility and the unique Icebar experience included. Compared to other city tours that might charge more for fewer stops or less comprehensive commentary, this tour gives you a broad overview of Berlin’s history and modern culture with the added fun of a cool indoor attraction.

This experience is ideal for first-timers looking to see the highlights without rushing, as well as history buffs keen to hear stories in multiple languages. It’s also perfect if you enjoy a bit of indoor refreshment after a day of outdoor sightseeing—especially in the summer or during cooler months.

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The Sum Up

If you’re after an efficient way to get your bearings in Berlin while enjoying the city’s most iconic landmarks, this hop-on hop-off tour hits the spot. The two routes cover both historic and trendy districts, while the audio commentary enriches your understanding of Berlin’s complex past and vibrant present. The Icebar experience adds a memorable, cooling break—perfect for a city known for its contrasting history and modern energy.

This tour will delight those who appreciate good value, flexibility, and a bit of fun with their sightseeing. It suits travelers who want a rundown without the fuss, and who enjoy authentic, immersive experiences—whether they’re history enthusiasts, casual travelers, or those seeking a unique Berlin adventure.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for families with children?
Yes, the hop-on hop-off bus is a flexible way for families to see Berlin at their own pace. Just note that the Icebar is an icy environment that might not be comfortable for very young children or those sensitive to cold.

Can I buy tickets on the day of the tour?
Yes, both mobile and printed paper vouchers are accepted, and you can usually purchase tickets on the spot, but booking in advance ensures availability and better planning.

What language options are available for the audio guide?
The audio commentary is available in 13 different languages, making it accessible for most travelers.

How long does each bus route take?
The classic route takes approximately 120 minutes, with buses departing every 25 minutes. The trendy East Berlin & Wall route lasts about 60 minutes, with departures every 40 minutes.

Are there any restrictions I should be aware of?
Pets and smoking are not allowed onboard or inside the Icebar. The Icebar also requires punctual arrival for your pre-booked time slot.

Is it possible to visit other attractions during the tour?
Yes, the stops are close to major attractions, and you can hop off to explore or take photos. The flexible schedule lets you customize your experience.

What if I want to cancel?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, making this a low-risk option for flexible planning.

Does the tour include food or drinks besides the Icebar?
No, food and drinks are not included except at the Icebar, where three free drinks are part of your ticket.

In short, this City Sightseeing Berlin tour provides a practical and enjoyable way to explore Berlin’s highlights and hidden corners. With the added bonus of the Icebar experience, it offers a blend of history, culture, and cool fun—well worth considering for your next Berlin trip.

You can check availability for your dates here: