Although this location isn't necessarily one of Berlin's most popular attractions, it's known as a photographer favorite. The bright orange tiles are an unexpected pop of color underground along this passageway and with a model in your shot, it makes for the perfect place to capture a one-of-a-kind lifestyle shot.
Plan
Overview
Skill level
Easy
Accessbility
Public Location
Hours
Anytime
Fee
Free
Pack
Wide-angle lens (11mm)
Tripod
Model
How to get there
N52° 30' 12.4992"E13° 16' 46.668"
This image was taken inside the International Congress Center ICC Berlin underpass tunnel. There are a variety of ways to reach this well-lit tunnel, but to get to this exact spot, you'll want to enter the underground passageway off of Am Westkreuz. Once you're underground, reference the GPS coordinates to get to the exact spot where I took this image.
By public transportation:
- Closest station: Westkreuz (via S3, S5, S7, S9, S41, S42, S46 lines)
- Head north on Am Westkreuz and then enter the tunnel in about 100 meters
Tips
When to go
Best season
All months
Best time
Night, Midnight+
The image of the ICC Berlin Underpass Tunnel can be photographed year round. The tunnel is always well illuminated and is unaffected by the seasons.
If you're a fan of getting clean shots, nighttime will be the best time of day to visit this location. During the day, the sunlight will come through the tunnel and reflect on the tiles. Because of this, you won't really be able to capture the nice orange color of the tiles.
Field tips
I recommend shooting with a wide-angle lens (11mm) to capture the entirety of the tunnel and its length.
Make sure to utilize the tunnel's lights as leading lines. It'll help you to create a more balanced image with the eye naturally looking to the end of the tunnel, guided by the lights.
Situate your model in the middle of the passageway, right before the tunnel bends, to add a human element to your shot.
Try capturing the different perspectives of the tunnel by walking back and forth.
Current weather
Berlin
Overcast
40o
F
Wed
39o
35o
Thu
45o
36o
Fri
41o
36o
Sat
41o
37o
Sun
42o
36o
Blue Hour
06:21
40o
Overcast
Sunrise
07:02
40o
Overcast
Golden Hour
13:53
40o
Overcast
Sunset
14:56
40o
Overcast
Do nearby
Emerge from the tunnel and visit the International Congress Center (ICC) Berlin. It's one of the largest conference centers in the world and it has an amazing carpark that's definitely worth checking out.
Check out the nearby Funkturn Berlin, which is a radio tower that offers a restaurant and viewing platform with panoramic views of the city.
If you're looking for additional opportunities for architecture photography, visit the Haus des Rundfunks. This broadcasting house is opposite the ICC and it offers historical and architectural guided tours, too.