The Berlin Dungeon is a uniquely thrilling attraction that combines history, horror, and humor. Located in the heart of the city near Hackescher Markt, it offers an immersive journey through 800 years of Berlin’s darkest past.
What to expect at Berlin Dungeon
The Berlin Dungeon is not a traditional museum; it is a 70-minute live-action theatrical experience. You will walk through various themed sets with a group of other visitors, guided by professional actors who play notorious characters from Berlin’s history.
- Immersive Shows: The tour consists of roughly 11 different shows that flow into one another. You will encounter the “Plague Doctor” in the 16th century, face the “Torturer” who will demonstrate his instruments on a lucky volunteer, and navigate the confusing “Labyrinth of the Lost.”
- The Rides: The experience features two underground rides (subject to maintenance). The “Raft Ride” floats you through a dark, foggy river, while the finale is often the “Exitus” drop tower—a 12-meter freefall in total darkness.
- Audience Participation: The actors actively interact with the group. You might be put on trial by a corrupt judge or accused of being a witch. The humor can be dark and sarcastic.
- Language: The standard shows are in German. However, there are dedicated English-speaking tours available daily at specific times (usually 12:30 PM, 2:30 PM, and 4:30 PM, but check the schedule).
Where to buy tickets
- Online (Highly Recommended): The best way to secure your spot is to book via the official Berlin Dungeon website. This allows you to choose a guaranteed time slot, which is essential because tours have limited capacity.
- On-Site: You can buy tickets at the entrance, but this is the most expensive option. During weekends or holidays, you may find that the next English tour is sold out, forcing you to wait for hours.
- Berlin WelcomeCard: If you have a Berlin WelcomeCard, you are entitled to a discount (typically 25%). You must usually purchase this discounted ticket at the admission desk.
Berlin Dungeon’s tickets
- Standard Online Ticket: Approximately €19.00 – €23.00 per person. This is the “Saver” price for booking in advance.
- Walk-Up Price: Approximately €29.50. This is what you pay if you just show up at the door without a booking.
- Age Rules: The Dungeon is not suitable for young children. The minimum age for entry is 8 years old (strictly enforced). Children aged 8 to 14 must be accompanied by an adult. The recommended age is 10 and up.
Combo Tickets
Because the Berlin Dungeon is owned by Merlin Entertainments, you can save money by buying “Cluster Tickets” that include other major Berlin attractions.
- 2-Attraction Ticket: Includes the Dungeon + Madame Tussauds Berlin.
- 3-Attraction Ticket: Includes the Dungeon + Madame Tussauds + SEA LIFE Berlin.
- 5-Attraction Ticket: The “Berlin Big Ticket” includes the Dungeon, Madame Tussauds, SEA LIFE, LEGOLAND Discovery Centre, and Little BIG City Berlin.
- Validity: You usually have 90 days to visit the other attractions after your visit to the Dungeon, so you don’t have to rush to see them all in one day.
How to reach the Dungeon
The attraction is located at Spandauer Straße 2, 10178 Berlin, situated between the Berlin Cathedral and the Red Town Hall.
- By S-Bahn (Train): Take lines S3, S5, S7, or S9 to Hackescher Markt. From there, it is a 3-minute walk.
- By Tram: The M4, M5, and M6 lines stop directly at Spandauer Straße/Marienkirche, which is right in front of the entrance.
- By U-Bahn: Take the U2, U5, or U8 to Alexanderplatz. It is about a 5-7 minute walk past the TV Tower.
- By Bus: The 100 and 200 sightseeing buses stop at Spandauer Straße/Marienkirche.
Berlin Dungeon’s timings
- General Hours: Daily from 11:00 AM – 7:00 PM.
- Last Admission: The last tour usually starts at 6:00 PM.
- Seasonal Variations: In peak summer months or Halloween (October), hours may extend. Conversely, on winter weekdays, they may open later or close earlier. Always check the official calendar for your specific date.
How long does the tour take
- The Tour: The walkthrough experience itself lasts approximately 60 to 70 minutes.
- Total Time: Plan for 90 minutes to account for security checks, queuing before your time slot, and browsing the souvenir shop at the end.
Best time to visit
- Weekdays: Tuesday through Thursday are generally less crowded.
- English Tours: If you need the English show, booking the 12:30 PM slot is often a good balance—it gives you time to arrive without rushing, but it isn’t as busy as the late afternoon slots.
- Halloween: October is the busiest month of the year for the Dungeon. If you visit then, booking weeks in advance is mandatory.
FAQs about Berlin Dungeon
1. Is it too scary for children?
It depends on the child, but generally, yes. It is designed to be scary, with jump scares, darkness, and loud noises. Children under 8 are not allowed entry, and many 8-10 year olds find it overwhelming.
2. Is the attraction wheelchair accessible?
The walking tour is largely wheelchair accessible via elevators, but the rides are not. Wheelchair users can still do the tour but will have to bypass the Raft Ride and the Drop Tower. Electric wheelchairs are often not permitted due to weight/size limits on the lifts.
3. Can I take photos?
Strictly No. Photography and video recording are prohibited inside the attraction. The flashing lights distract the actors and ruin the dark atmosphere. You can only take photos in the designated areas at the entrance or exit.
4. What language are the tours in?
The default language is German. If you do not speak German, you must book a specific “English Show” time slot. If you accidentally book a German slot, you will not understand the jokes or the story.
5. Can I bring bags?
Large suitcases and bulky luggage are not allowed inside. There are no large lockers on-site, so you should leave big bags at your hotel or the lockers at Alexanderplatz station. Small backpacks are usually fine but may be checked by security.
