German grandeur
Berlin is a stately capital city filled with impressive landmarks. The Brandenburg Gate is an 18th-century neoclassical monument designed by Carl Gotthard Langhans the Elder. It is widely considered one of the best examples of German architecture in the country.
After suffering war damage and isolation during Germany’s division, the Brandenburg Gate has stood as a symbol of unity since 1989. You’ll find it on Pariser Platz – visit in the evening to see the stone illuminated against the night sky.
The Reichstag Building is another Berlin treasure. The glass-domed German parliament is open to visitors – step inside to discover architecture, art and politics in action. Visit the roof terrace for great views from 230 metres above the city – but remember to book a slot on the website beforehand. You can even use an audio guide to learn more about the heritage.
The Berlin Wall
Berlin was a divided city from 1961 to 1989 – split down the middle with a allied-occupied west and soviet occupied east – and the Berlin Wall is a reminder of this division. There are many ways to visit the Berlin Wall, but the best place to start is at the Berlin Wall Memorial near Brunnenviertel.
At this interesting centre, you’ll find informative displays exploring the wall’s construction, escape attempts and the fall of the Berlin Wall in 1989. There are historical films and interviews with real people who lived through these difficult times.
The East Side Gallery interprets the history through street art, while the Topography of Terror explores the history of the Secret State Police during the Third Reich. Whether you decide to trace the path the wall once occupied or drop into the museums that line its path, there is no end of history to explore.
The Memorial to the Murdered Jews of Europe is another place to witness the dark side of 20th century German history. Designed by architect Peter Eisenman in foreboding concrete, the monument is bleak and breathtaking.
Markets and music
By day, laid-back Berlin culture is defined by its wonderful markets. During summer, eclectic flea markets showcase the city’s creative credentials and the Saturday Fesche Lotte Flea Market is one of the best, complete with live music, craft workshops and a festival atmosphere. In winter, the Berlin Christmas Market is the perfect way to spend a festive evening shopping for decorations and gifts.
By night, Berlin transforms into a vibrant paradise for music lovers. From punk dive bars tributes to house super clubs, there is something for every traveller. This is a city that despises Speissigkeit – or squareness – so you can expect unusual venues and daring nightlife at every turn.
Feast on knowledge
Berlin has more than 180 museums, each offering unique takes on history, science, culture and art. Museum Island is a unique location on the river Spree, where centres of knowledge are set in temple-like UNESCO-protected buildings.
Here you’ll find famous cultural destinations, such as the Pergamon Museum, Altes Museum, Nueues Museum, Alte Nationalgalerie and the ornate Berlin Cathedral. From art to archaeology, you can easily get lost in these exhibitions for days.
Rent a car in Berlin to uncover every aspect of this amazing capital city.
