
International Congress Centrum ICC Berlin
An iconic 1970s 'spaceship' architectural marvel, the ICC Berlin is a vast, largely unused congress center with a unique retro-futuristic charm.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Rare public access opportunities

International Congress Centrum ICC Berlin
Best Time
Rare public access opportunities
Highlights
Must-see attractions
An iconic 1970s 'spaceship' architectural marvel, the ICC Berlin is a vast, largely unused congress center with a unique retro-futuristic charm.
"A historic and iconic congress center that continues to offer a high level of professionalism and comfort."

🎯 Book Event Tickets Early
For rare open house events, tickets sell out fast! Check visitBerlin.de and book ASAP.
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
The ICC is huge! You'll be doing a lot of walking, so comfortable footwear is essential.

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The 'Spaceship' Exterior
An iconic 1970s high-tech architectural marvel, often compared to a futuristic spaceship. A must-see for architecture enthusiasts.

Grand Interior Foyers
Vast, open spaces with striking 70s design elements. Imagine the international events that once filled these halls.

Iconic Design Details
Discover unique architectural features and bold design choices that define this late-20th-century landmark.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Limited Access & Special Events
Navigating the 'Spaceship'
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Book Event Tickets Early
For rare open house events, tickets sell out fast! Check visitBerlin.de and book ASAP.
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
The ICC is huge! You'll be doing a lot of walking, so comfortable footwear is essential.
🗺️ Download Venue Map
It's a maze inside! Having a map on your phone can save you time and frustration.
📸 Capture the 70s Vibe
The architecture is incredibly photogenic. Don't forget your camera or phone for stunning shots!
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Book Event Tickets Early
For rare open house events, tickets sell out fast! Check visitBerlin.de and book ASAP.
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
The ICC is huge! You'll be doing a lot of walking, so comfortable footwear is essential.
🗺️ Download Venue Map
It's a maze inside! Having a map on your phone can save you time and frustration.
📸 Capture the 70s Vibe
The architecture is incredibly photogenic. Don't forget your camera or phone for stunning shots!
🚖 Plan Transport Ahead
Taxis and Ubers can be scarce and expensive after large events. Consider public transport or pre-booked options.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
The ICC Berlin is lauded as a world-class venue for events, praised for its spaciousness, excellent facilities, and convenient location next to Messe Berlin. Visitors appreciate its efficiency and professionalism during expos. However, some attendees of large conferences report significant challenges with transportation, navigation, and comfort due to a lack of heating and unfriendly facilities, leading to a frustrating experience.
"The International Congress Center (ICC) Berlin at Messe Berlin is a world-class venue for conferences, exhibitions, and international events. The building is spacious, well-organized, and equipped with excellent facilities for large groups and professional gatherings. Its location next to Messe Berlin makes it highly convenient, with easy access to public transport and plenty of services nearby. A historic and iconic congress center that continues to offer a high level of professionalism and comfort. Highly recommended for major events in Berlin."
Sahara Discovery Tours
"Efficient exhibition centre. The walk from the S-Bahn station is much shorter than on Google Maps - there's a footbridge and it takes less than five minutes"
Seiriol Dawes-Hughes
"Excellent marathon expo experience…soo efficient and smooth and fast…huge space inside with a huge expo…on a Friday afternoon didn’t feel packed at all or too crowded"
TK
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The ICC Berlin is located next to Messe Berlin. You can reach it via public transport, with the S-Bahn station Messe Nord/ICC being a short walk away. There's a footbridge that significantly shortens the walk from the S-Bahn. Buses also serve the area. If driving, parking is available, but can be busy during events.
Yes, it is well-connected by public transport. The S-Bahn station Messe Nord/ICC is nearby, and several bus lines stop in the vicinity, making it convenient for visitors.
Taking the S-Bahn (lines S3, S5, S7, S9) to Messe Nord/ICC is a popular and efficient option from the Berlin city center. The journey typically takes around 15-20 minutes.
While available, taxis and ride-sharing services can be difficult to secure and expensive, especially after large events. It's advisable to pre-book or have a backup transport plan.
The walk from the S-Bahn station Messe Nord/ICC to the ICC is less than five minutes, thanks to a convenient footbridge.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
The ICC is largely unused and not open to the public regularly. Access is typically only granted during special events, such as '49 Hours ICC' or Open Monument Day. Keep an eye on @visitBerlin for announcements.
Tickets for special events are usually released on visitBerlin.de. They often require booking a specific time slot and can sell out very quickly.
Historically, events like Open Monument Day have offered free entry, but time slot tickets are often still required and must be booked in advance.
Opening hours vary significantly depending on the event. For special open house events, hours are clearly communicated during the ticket release.
Admission fees depend on the event. Some special public access events may have a fee, while others, like Open Monument Day, might be free but require ticket booking.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Inside, the ICC is known for its vast, open spaces, high-tech 1970s design, and a somewhat labyrinthine layout. It was once one of Europe's largest conference centers.
Absolutely! The unique 'spaceship' architecture, both inside and out, makes it a fantastic spot for photography, especially for those interested in brutalist and futuristic styles.
Restrooms are available, but some visitors have found them hard to locate and not very user-friendly. Seating zones for resting or meeting can also be limited.
Unfortunately, some visitors have reported a lack of heating in the halls during colder months, making it feel quite chilly.
The ICC can be challenging to navigate due to its size and layout, with confusing signage. It's often described as a maze.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
During large events, there are usually catering facilities. However, if the ICC is closed or you're just visiting the exterior, options nearby can be scarce.
If the ICC is not hosting a major event, dining options immediately surrounding it are limited. It's advisable to plan for food before or after your visit, or if attending an event, utilize the venue's offerings.
This typically depends on the specific event. For large conferences or exhibitions, venue policies usually dictate what can be brought in. Check event guidelines.
📸 📸 Photography
The entire exterior, especially its 'spaceship' form, is highly photogenic. Inside, the grand foyers and unique architectural details offer great opportunities.
Photography is generally allowed inside during public access events, but it's always best to check specific event rules. Some areas might have restrictions.
It's ideal for architectural photography, capturing its unique 1970s high-tech and brutalist elements. It also lends itself well to fashion shoots and capturing 'liminal spaces'.
Drone usage is typically restricted in urban areas and around large public venues like the ICC due to aviation regulations and privacy concerns. Always check local laws before flying a drone.
Both daytime for clear architectural shots and evening/night for dramatic lighting can be effective. Golden hour can also provide beautiful light on the exterior.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
📸 Architecture & Photography Enthusiasts
🚶♀️ Urban Explorers & History Buffs
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The ICC Berlin: A Futuristic Icon
Despite its architectural significance and past prestige, the ICC has been out of use since 2014, leading to its current status as a largely vacant, yet protected, historical monument. This has contributed to its allure as a site for exploring 'liminal spaces' and appreciating its retro-futuristic charm. While its operational future remains uncertain, the ICC continues to capture the imagination of architects, photographers, and urban explorers alike, often opening its doors for rare public events that allow a glimpse into its grand, albeit quiet, interior.
When visiting, especially during one of the infrequent open house events, visitors are struck by the sheer scale of the interior spaces, the bold design choices, and the sense of history within its concrete walls. It's a place that evokes a sense of wonder and nostalgia, a testament to a bygone era of ambitious architectural vision.
Experiencing the ICC: Tips from Visitors
For photographers, the ICC is a dream. Its unique 'spaceship' exterior and the striking 1970s interior design offer countless opportunities for capturing dramatic shots. Whether it's the brutalist concrete forms or the futuristic lines, the building provides a stunning backdrop. Consider visiting during different times of day to experience how the light changes the building's appearance.
When attending events, be prepared for potential logistical challenges. Transportation can be an issue, with taxis and ride-sharing services being scarce and expensive after large gatherings. Some visitors have also noted a lack of heating in the halls during colder months, so dressing in layers is advisable.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit