The once-divided city is now a multicultural melting pot of vibrant art, international cuisine and progressive attitudes. Both fascinating and sobering reminders of Nazi rule and East and West Berlin remain. The city centre also holds a vast collection of art and antiquities from across the world. At night, Berlin welcomes visitors with a wide variety of live music, bars and dance clubs.
Things to do
A city break in Berlin caters to one and all: the art lover, the foodie and the party animal. Explore the past on a guided tour of its historical architecture and diverse neighbourhoods. Fill up on German beer and sausages, or a wide variety of international food. Dance the night away in a techno nightclub.
Interesting landmarks
The city has a great range of interesting landmarks. Don’t miss the iconic Brandenburg Gate, which nowadays is a symbol of hope and unity, or the Reichstag, the home of Germany’s parliament. Remember to take your camera when you go up the Berlin Television Tower, which has stunning views across the city, or when you go for a relaxing stroll in the Tiergarten park.
Poignant history
Berlin’s history is of course intertwined with the two world wars, and there’s some poignant reminders of this across the city. A visit to the Berlin War Memorial is a must while you’re in town as it’s the last part of the infamous wall still standing. The Holocaust Memorial meanwhile is a touching tribute to Jewish victims of the Nazi regime.
Great culture
Not all of Berlin’s museums are sombre though, and the city has a huge number of galleries as well as museums. Museum Island has a number of options you can visit, while there’s the Gemäldegalerie that celebrates art from the 13th century to the 18th century, and the Neue Nationalgalerie, where you can admire modern art. After your dose of culture, sample local delicacies like currywurst, sip some of Berlin’s famous beer, and party the night away at an all-night techno club.
