City Sightseeing Berlin: HOHO Bus – All Lines & Icebar

Traveling through Berlin’s streets on an open-top double-decker bus sounds like a classic way to soak in the city’s energy, and this tour offers just that—a flexible, fun, and informative way to see Germany’s vibrant capital. With options to hop on and off at 26 stops across two routes, plus a visit to the iconic Icebar Berlin, it’s a ticket that promises a bit of everything.

What makes this experience particularly appealing are three things we love: the convenience of unlimited sightseeing, the chance to explore major landmarks at your own pace, and the fun of ending the day in Berlin’s coolest bar with complimentary drinks. The only potential caveat? The tour’s pace might not suit those who prefer more structured, guided tours with a dedicated guide rather than audio commentary.

This tour is perfect for travelers who want the freedom to customize their Berlin adventure, mix sightseeing with stylish chill-out moments, and enjoy a good balance of history, culture, and fun. Whether you’re a first-timer or a repeat visitor, this combo provides a practical and memorable way to experience Berlin.

Key Points

• Flexible 24 or 48-hour hop-on hop-off buses let you explore Berlin at your own pace.
• Two distinct routes cover all key sights, from historic landmarks to trendy East Berlin neighborhoods.
• Entry to Icebar Berlin with three complimentary drinks offers a unique, icy experience.
• Audio commentary in 13 languages provides insightful background on sights as you cruise past.
• 26 stops ensure you can hop off at the attractions that interest you most.
• Good value for money, offering access to major sights and fun extras in one package.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at What You Get

When considering a sightseeing tour like this, we focus on the practicalities—how well it delivers on its promises, how it fits your style, and what the overall experience feels like. Here’s a detailed breakdown.

The Routing and Stops

This tour covers two main routes, giving you access to Berlin’s highlights and the more eclectic East Berlin wall scenes. The Classic Tour takes you past iconic spots like the Brandenburg Gate, Reichstag, Alexanderplatz, and Checkpoint Charlie. Each stop is carefully chosen to provide a rundown of Berlin’s historical and cultural fabric. The stops near KaDeWe and Tauentzienstrasse are perfect for shopping enthusiasts, while Potsdamer Platz offers a glimpse of modern Berlin’s architecture.

The Trendy East Berlin & Wall Tour takes you further into the city’s hipper side—think of murals at the East Side Gallery, the Mauerpark, and the Ostbahnhof. These stops provide a contrast to the historic core, showing Berlin’s vibrant street art, nightlife, and creative energy.

The Bus Experience

The buses run every 25 minutes on the classic route and every 40 minutes on the East Berlin route, meaning you’re rarely waiting long. With audio guides in 13 languages, you’ll get a decent overview of each sight as you cruise by. The open-top design means you’ll love the stunning aerial views—perfect for snapping photos of landmarks like the Brandenburg Gate or the Victory Column.

The buses are modern and well-maintained, with the flexibility to hop on and off whenever a sight catches your eye. The fact that both mobile and printed vouchers are accepted simplifies the process, making last-minute bookings or using your phone for tickets hassle-free.

The Stops—What You’ll See

Each stop is a chance to get close to Berlin’s iconic sites. The Brandenburg Gate and Reichstag are must-sees, offering impressive architecture and history. The Checkpoint Charlie stop provides insight into Cold War Berlin, while Alexanderplatz gives you a lively hub with shops, cafes, and the famous TV tower.

Other stops like Gendarmenmarkt and Lustgarten are ideal for leisurely explorations, with plenty of cafes and photo opportunities. The Zoologischer Garten and Elephant Gate provide a glimpse into Berlin’s diverse neighborhoods.

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The Icebar Berlin—A Cool Finale

Included with your ticket is entry to Icebar Berlin, where everything from the walls to the glasses is made of 69,000 kilos of ice. This isn’t just a gimmick; guests consistently mention how stunning the ice sculptures are and how the atmosphere is both fun and surreal.

Your experience includes three free drinks—a perfect way to unwind after a day of sightseeing or to start your evening. The bartenders are praised for their creativity, especially their suggestion of nougat vodka—a detail only discovered through reviews. The only caveat here is that visits are time-slot based, so arriving on time is essential, especially because the bar is closed on Mondays.

How Much Is It Really Worth?

At $44 per person, this package offers a lot of value—especially for first-time visitors wanting a rundown and a fun activity at the end. Compared to the cost of individual tickets for major sights or separate pub visits, it’s quite economical. Plus, the 48-hour option gives ample flexibility to explore slowly, revisit favorite spots, or relax between stops.

Authentic Experiences and Honest Feedback

One review mentions how good value for money the tour is, praising its informativeness. Conversely, a traveler expressed frustration about difficulty in contacting the provider, highlighting that customer service could be improved. Still, the overall reputation remains positive, especially regarding the quality of the Icebar experience and the views from the open-top buses.

Who Would Love This Tour?

This experience fits travelers who prefer flexibility and independence—you set your own pace, choose stops, and decide how long to linger. It’s great for first-timers who want to hit all the major sights without the pressure of a guided tour, as well as groups or couples looking for a fun activity with a stylish twist.

If you’re a history buff, the stops like Checkpoint Charlie and the Brandenburg Gate will appeal, while night owls or daytime explorers can appreciate the Icebar in the evening. However, if you’re seeking a guided narrative or personalized tour, this may not be the best fit.

Practical Tips for Your Berlin Adventure

• Arrive early for the first departure if you want the best seat on the open-top bus.
• Use your mobile voucher if possible, to avoid printing.
• Plan your Icebar visit during the bar’s opening hours—Tuesday to Friday from 5 pm, Saturday and Sunday from 4 pm.
• Be punctual for the Icebar slot—late arrivals might lose their place.
• Combine the bus ride with walking to spots like Gendarmenmarkt or the Victory Column for a deeper experience.
• Remember, food and drinks at the stops are not included, so bring snacks or plan meals around your sightseeing.
• If you’re traveling with kids or pets, note that pets are not allowed.

FAQ About the Berlin HOHO Bus & Icebar Tour

Can I use a mobile voucher for this tour?
Yes, both mobile and printed paper vouchers are accepted, making it easy to hop on and off with digital tickets.

How long does each route take?
The Classic Tour lasts about 120 minutes, while the Trendy East Berlin & Wall Tour is around 60 minutes.

What are the tour departure times?
The Classic route departs from Stop 1 at 9:30 am with the last at 3:30 pm; the East Berlin route starts at 9:30 am and ends at 4:30 pm.

Is the Icebar open every day?
No, it’s closed on Mondays. It’s open Tuesday through Friday from 5 pm until midnight, and Saturday/Sunday from 4 pm until midnight.

How many drinks are included at the Icebar?
Your ticket includes three free drinks, allowing you to enjoy the cool atmosphere comfortably.

Are there any restrictions for the Icebar visit?
Yes, it’s a time-slot ticket and non-refundable. Showing up on time is essential.

What landmarks are covered on the tour?
Major sights include Brandenburg Gate, Reichstag, Checkpoint Charlie, Gendarmenmarkt, Alexanderplatz, and the Victory Column, among others.

Can I hop off and rejoin the bus later?
Absolutely, the hop-on hop-off system is designed for flexibility, so you can explore areas at your leisure.

Are food and drinks included outside the Icebar?
No, food and drinks at stops are not part of the package unless specified separately.

Final Thoughts

This City Sightseeing Berlin package combines practicality, fun, and a touch of style—perfect for travelers who want to see the city without rushing, while enjoying some of Berlin’s coolest experiences. The two-route system ensures you see everything from historic landmarks to trendy districts. The Icebar visit adds a memorable and playful end to your day, with the bonus of three complimentary drinks.

While it might not suit those seeking a fully guided, narrated experience, it offers great value for independent explorers. The flexibility to hop on and off means you can tailor your day to your interests, making it an ideal choice for first-time visitors and seasoned travelers alike.

If you value ease, variety, and a bit of fun in your sightseeing, this tour is likely to fit the bill. Just arrive on time for the Icebar and enjoy Berlin from a fresh perspective—your own.

You can check availability for your dates here: