The Festival of Lights, in October
Every autumn, monuments and buildings across Berlin are lit up with projections and light installations. In 2026 the Festival of Lights runs from 9 to 18 October; the illuminations can generally be seen from 7 pm to 11 pm each evening. Usual sites include the Berlin Cathedral, which hosts 3D projections and ambient music sets from 13 to 17 October, and the TV Tower. The installations are spread across the city: plan to get around on foot or by night transport (see getting around Berlin). Outdoor routes are free; some shows, such as those at the cathedral, are ticketed.
Autumn colours in the parks
October is the best month to see the leaves change colour. The Tiergarten, in the heart of the city, is one of Europe's largest urban parks; Treptower Park lines the Spree; and the vast Tempelhofer Feld, a former airport, offers wide open spaces. With a sweater and a windbreaker these walks stay pleasant until late November.
Museums and things to do when it rains
Autumn brings more rain: it is the time to visit museums. For ideas, read our guide Berlin when it rains, the Museum Island, the Natural History Museum or the Boros Collection, to be booked in advance. The Berliner Unterwelten also run underground tours; note that the flak tower tour only runs until the end of October.
Clock change and Christmas markets
The switch to winter time takes place on Sunday 25 October 2026: evenings become shorter. The first Christmas markets generally open in late November: see the Berlin Christmas markets.
When to come and what to pack
To compare the seasons, see the guide to the best time to visit Berlin. Bring layers, rain gear and comfortable shoes. To plan your stay without spending too much, see also the budget for a trip to Berlin and Berlin at night. Month by month: what to do in Berlin in September, October and November.
