Bode-Museum, Berlin

Perched at Museum Island's northern tip, the Bode stands tall, a beacon of elegance with its grand columns and majestic double dome, embraced by the Spree River on two sides. While there's much to enjoy in the architecture, scale and layout at a glance, it has an equally impressive interior, with elegant stairs, lofty ceilings, and classical features that create the perfect backdrop for museum exploration.

The sculpture collection housed here ranks among the largest in existence, spanning from the early Middle Ages to the late 18th century, with a diverse array representing most European countries. Highlights include glazed terracotta figures from the Italian Renaissance and a handful of remarkable works by Tilman Riemenschneider that truly steal the show. Rarely can you encounter such exquisite wooden sculptures in one place, but this museum is an exception!

If Byzantine art tickles your fancy, you're in for a treat. There are over 150 works dating from the 3rd to the 15th centuries, while the coin cabinet displays a vast and valuable collection of Byzantine coins and medals. There's also an intriguing section showcasing iconic art from Orthodox Christian churches in Greece, the Balkans, Russia, and North Africa.

Feeling weary or in need of a coffee-and-cake break during your visit? Look no further than the charming café, offering scenic views of the magnificent Baroque-style foyer. And, for those looking to take a piece of the experience home, the restaurant's back section houses a book and gift shop brimming with many nice items.

Tips:
While bags must be checked in, you're welcome to snap away with your camera and capture all the memories you desir. And for an efficient and cost-effective adventure on Museum Island, consider grabbing the 3-day Museum Pass – it pays for itself and lets you breeze through the other museums on the island.