The Nikolaikirche is located within the Nikolaiviertel (Nikolai-Quarter), the oldest residential area of Berlin. With its medieval streets, numerous restaurants and pubs it is among the most popular sightseeings for Berliners and tourists.

Step into history at Berlin’s oldest church!

With its medieval streets and numerous restaurants and pubs, the Nikolaiviertel is one of the most popular destinations for both locals and visitors. Today, the Nikolaikirche is also a museum, housing the permanent exhibition “From the City’s Foundation to the Twin Spires.” Regular special exhibitions are held there as well. Seven thematic exhibits, including Treasure from the Tower and The Pantheon of Berlin, trace the city’s development from its origins to the present. Learn more through media stations and the free audio guide app.

A special highlight is the concerts held in the church, renowned for their unique acoustics! Organ recitals take place every Friday.

The Nikolaikirche in Berlin

Location & Sights nearby

The Nikolaikirche is in the heart of the Nikolaiviertel, itself located in the center of Berlin. The nearby Museum Island, the TV Tower, the Red Town Hall, and Alexanderplatz are all just a short walk away. Attractions like the Berlin Dungeon are also right around the corner, and you can book tickets for these on our website.

A Brief History of the Nikolaikirche

The Nikolaikirche is Berlin’s oldest church, built between 1230 and 1250, and is now a listed historical monument.

Originally, the Roman Catholic Church of St. Nicholas, it became a Lutheran church following the Protestant Reformation in the Electorate of Brandenburg in 1539.

On Reformation Day in 1938 (October 31), the church held its last service. The building, Berlin’s oldest, was then handed over to the government to be used as a concert hall and church museum.

During World War II, the church was destroyed down to its foundations and remained a ruin for many years. From 1980 to 1987, it was fully rebuilt in honor of Berlin’s 750th anniversary. Today, the church functions primarily as a museum and occasionally as a concert venue.

Address, opening hours...

Address: Nikolaikirchplatz, 10178 Berlin
Opening Hours: Monday to Sunday, 10 AM to 6 PM
Transport: Bus: 248, M48, N42 – Station: Nikolaiviertel
Admission: €5, reduced €3 (includes audio guide), free for under 18s, free admission on the first Wednesday of every month

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Step into history at Berlin’s oldest church!