Andreea Lucia Mihalache

Berlin, Germany Summary: A city of fine contrasts, where history meets modernism, Berlin has always been a top tourist attraction not only for European visitors, but for people all around the world. It is Germany’s capital city, but Berlin is mostly known for the massive influences it brought to the world history and, throughout the years, it has become a symbol for tolerance and internationalism. The truth is that Berlin has a little something for everyone, so whether you’re interested in architecture, culture, clubbing, shopping or relaxation, this stunning metropolis will most certainly meet all your expectations. It boasts of museums, cafés, bars, palaces, theatres, architectural gems, monuments and many other beautiful attractions. Even though it’s not particularly a green city, it does include a wide array of parks, gardens and forests where you can walk or just sit and relax. An interesting fact about Germany’s capital is that it is home for people from more than 190 countries, with different traditions and cultures that subtly blend in with the Germans’ lifestyle. So, there is no wonder why multiculturalism and internationalism are two of the words that best describe this amazing city. However, Berlin has become known worldwide due to its significant and impressive history. It was founded in the 13th century, which makes it one of Europe’s oldest cities. From the very beginning, it has been a strong and mighty city with a sturdy population that has stoically overcome any type of hardship. It served as capital city for Prussia, the Weimar Republic, the German Empire and Hitler’s Third Reich. During the Cold War, the Berlin Wall divided the city into East Berlin and West Berlin, and after 1989, it was finally united and became the capital of the Federal Republic of Germany. Some of these history marks can still be observed in today’s Berlin, such as, for example, parts of the Berlin Wall. Nowadays, Berlin is a world-renowned centre for culture, science, media and politics, where the “old” the “new” mix to create astounding views and attractions. From the Brandenburger Tor, the city-gate built in 1799, and Alexanderplatz with its medieval constructions, to the modern Potsdamer Platz with its steel and glass buildings, this city does not cease to amaze even the pickiest of the tourists. With such great popularity, there is no wonder that Berlin has been chosen numerous times to host major cultural, political and sporting events, such as the FIFA World Cup Final, which took place in 2006. This scenery would not be complete without the hundreds of fine concerts and festivals organized in Berlin on an annual basis and the innovative street art that can be seen in the centre of the city mostly. So, you can be sure that you won’t know what boredom is while visiting Berlin. Attractions Berlin is not only an important historic and cultural centre, but also a major tourist attraction that draws in millions of people every year. Whether they are attracted by Berlin’s splendid buildings or by its vibrant nightlife, tourists from all around the world gather in this wonderful city to celebrate its beauty and special vibe. In return, Berlin offers all its visitors a piece of its history. Brandenburg Gate Represented in almost all pictures depicting the city of Berlin, the Brandenburg Gate or Brandenburger Tor is certainly one of the most appreciated symbols and attractions in the German metropolis. It was constructed in 1791, being the last remaining city gate in the capital. The Brandenburg Gate has always been of great significance for Berliners, as this is where they celebrated the fall of the wall, but this was also a site of protests when Germany was divided. During World War II, the Gate was damaged because of severe bombing and it was only fully restored at the beginning of the 2000s. Nowadays, the beautiful and restored Brandenburg Gate stands tall and triumphant to remind people not only of Berlin’s turbulent history, but also of its years of peace and glory. It is, thus, an attraction of great importance that should not miss from your itinerary. Potsdamer Platz Moving on to the more modern side of the city, you will notice the unmistakable Potsdamer Platz. Filled with glass and steel buildings, this area is a well-known centre for shopping, entertainment and art. It is one of the numerous vibrant areas in Berlin and, symbolically, it represents the reconnection between East Berlin and West Berlin. The Sony Centre dominates the square and it’s the place where most of the entertainment happens. So, if you’re looking for a shopping session or you’re in for a movie night, look no further than Sony Centre with its 3D IMAX theatre, Cinema Complex, shopping mall and even a Film Museum. Don’t miss the DaimlerChrysler Atrium that features different art exhibits that change from time to time. Last, but not least, Potsdamer Platz is home to a fine replica of the first traffic light in Germany. Located in the centre of the square, it is surrounded by various modern structures that make this area a must-see attraction. Berlin Television Tower Also known as Fernsehturm, the Berlin Television Tower is the tallest building in the German capital and Germany as a whole. It also counts as Europe’s fourth highest tower. Measuring 368 metres in height, this TV Tower also features an observation deck, located at 204 metres above ground level. The Berlin Television Tower is mostly appreciated by tourists, because it offers them the possibility to enjoy a full panorama of the city. As you reach the highest point, on the observation deck, you will be impressed by the amazing rotating restaurant that spins 360 degrees every half an hour to let you admire the splendid views of Berlin. There is also a bar situated nearby the restaurant. The TV Tower was constructed in the 1960s and initially it was regarded as a communist emblem. Still, as it stood above the Berlin Wall, with its dome reflecting the sun in the shape of a cross, it became clear that it was in fact a symbol for freedom and liberation, and it has remained so ever since. The Berlin Wall Going to Berlin and not visiting the Berlin Wall, or, to be more accurate, the remains of the original wall, is like having a party with no music. Berlin’s recent and modern history is so closely related to the famous wall that torn the city apart that today you cannot imagine one without the other. Conceived as a malicious way to separate the east side of the city from the west side, nowadays the remaining part of the wall stands as a proof of courage, freedom and pride. The part of the Berlin Wall that still stands up is located in the eastern part of the city and it was named East Side Gallery. It’s filled with amazing murals (hence the name “gallery”) signed by artists all around the globe, as a symbol of tolerance. The first paintings appeared in 1990, immediately after the wall fell. Other small pieces can be seen between Bellevuestraße and Ebertstraße, in Potsdamer Platz and close to the Martin-Gropius-Bau Museum. However, most of the Berlin Wall was destroyed by vandalism and erosion. Holocaust Memorial As you walk nearby the Brandenburg Gate, you will notice a simple, abstract and powerful memorial dedicated to all the Holocaust victims. The memorial was opened in 2005 and was settled over an entire block. It features 2,711 concrete slabs, none of them resembling one another. The biggest is 6-feet tall and the smallest doesn’t get higher than an ankle. Even the ground that makes the paths is undulating, so, when you see the memorial as a whole, you get the overall impression of disorientation. It is one of Berlin’s most imposing and solemn memorials, and it also features an underground museum. The latter presents information about the people who died because of the Holocaust. You will have the chance to find out some of the most terrifying and touching stories of those who were affected by the most massive extermination plan in world history. Reichstag The German Parliament building or Reichstag is located close to the Brandenburg Gate. The structure was constructed in 1894, but it was partially destroyed in 1933 and then in 1945. It was completely restored after 1990, with the stunning renovation plans signed by Sir Norman Foster. Reichstag was reopened for the public in 1999, the top attraction being the remarkable glass dome that allows visitors to admire the panorama of the city. The tours are free, but if you want to be one of the lucky ones to enter the building and the dome, you must register well in advance because there is a daily limit with regards to how many individuals can enter the structure. Hotels Being a marvellous tourist city, Berlin also offers its visitors lots of opportunities for relaxation. The numerous top hotels located in key areas in the city will do just that. Amstel House Hostel If you’re not looking to spend too much on your accommodation, but still want to benefit from top services, then Amstel House might be the right choice for you. Located in the Tiergarten district, the hostel offers great public transport links to get to the centre of the city. The nearest attraction is the Kurfürstendamm shopping boulevard, where you’ll find a store for every budget. What attracts most about the Amstel House Hostel is its Art Nouveau style that makes you feel like you’re entering a museums and not a hotel. Everything is neat and beautifully decorated and you can benefit from rooms with shared or private bathrooms, depending on your needs. If you like cooking when in vacation, then you will definitely take advantage by the fully-equipped kitchen put at the guests’ disposal. Wi-Fi is accessible in public areas, such as the lobby, and it’s free of charge. Last, but not least, this hostel is known for their friendly staff, which is always happy to help you with tips about local bars, restaurants and attractions. Mövenpick Hotel Berlin Those who are searching for full comfort and amenities in the very centre of Berlin should look no further than Mövenpick Hotel. It’s situated only 600 metres away from the majestic Potsdamer Platz and “luxury” it’s his middle name. With 4 stars, this beautiful hotel puts at your disposal elegant rooms, a sauna for relaxation, a state-of-the-art gym and a stunning restaurant with glass roof that opens in the summer time. The guest rooms are stylish and colourful and they all benefit from air-conditioning. Other features offered are a cordless telephone, Wi-Fi on request, flat-screen TV and breakfast in the room. Don’t miss the chance to dine at the Hof Zwei Restaurant that serves exquisite Swiss and Mediterranean food and that is decorated with a wonderful waterfall. The greatest thing about Mövenpick Hotel is that it’s located in the heart of Berlin, allowing you to get to the famous Brandenburg Gate in just 4 minutes via train. At the same time, Friedrichshain-Kreuzberg, the district where the hotel is placed, is well-known for its fine clubbing and talented street performers. Hotel Berlin Berlin is also known as a top business centre, so there is no wonder that it also features plenty of business hotels. Hotel Berlin is one of them and it’s included among the best of its kind. It is situated in central Berlin, near the KaDeWe department store. It features stylish rooms, a lounge-bar where you can enjoy local German beers and exquisite wines, and even a beautiful summer garden. Moreover, Restaurant Julius will definitely allure you with its fine international and Mediterranean cuisine. At Hotel Berlin, you will not be out of leisure options, as this accommodation place also features a solarium, a gym, a rent-a-bike service and a modern Finnish sauna. The colourful and elegant rooms at Hotel Berlin feature a fridge and air conditioning, and are extremely comfortable, so that you can feel like home even if you’re far away from home. As you walk out the hotel, you’ll step right in the centre of Berlin, with only a 5-minute ride till Berlin Zoo or Kurfürstendamm shopping street. Cityhostel Berlin A place for the young and restless, but not only, Cityhostel Berlin is one of the best budget options in the centre of Berlin. This small, yet modern hostel is best known for the friendly people that surround it and the welcoming and comfortable rooms it offers. Cityhostel sits in the Mitte district and it’s only 15 minutes away from Reichstag and Brandenburg Gate and 10 minutes away from the amazing Potsdamer Platz. Also, the Friedrichstraße shopping street is situated 200 metres away. Cityhostel Berlin features simple, but comfy rooms, and you can opt for shared facilities or a private bathroom. Their hearty breakfasts are a thing you cannot miss. Although optional, you should include them in your offer, as they are absolutely delicious, as past guests have stated. Finally, Cityhostel Berlin benefits from an outdoor terrace and an enjoyable games room with pinball machines, table football and one billiard table so that you can keep yourself occupied when bad weather ruins your visiting plans. Grand Hyatt Berlin For the best of the best when it comes to accommodation in Berlin, look no further than Grand Hyatt Berlin. This 5-star hotel is the primary destination for the Berlinale film festival guests because it’s situated in the heart of the German capital. The Brandenburg Gate, Tiergarten Park, Berlin Philharmonic Hall, Sony Centre and Potsdamer Platz are all within walking distance from Grand Hyatt Berlin. This is definitely the hotel to go to if you’re looking for a bit of splurge. The rooftop pool and spa will surely draw your attention, due to the spectacular views they offer. The Club Olympus Fitness & Spa also includes saunas, a gym and beauty and massage facilities. The magnificent Vox Restaurant is known for its top Asian and international dishes. In the summer time, you can opt for a dinner on the hotel’s terrace, while admiring the beautiful Potsdamer Platz. All the hotel’s rooms are equipped with B&O TVs, marble bathrooms with TVs and they also have hot drink facilities. A free bottle of water is offered to all guests residing at Grand Hyatt Berlin. Free Wi-Fi is also available in all rooms. So, there is no reason why you won’t feel relaxed and stress-free in this top-notch hotel. Flights Berlin is easy accessible by plane thanks to its two large airports: Schönefeld and Tegel International Airport. Germany’s capital is directly connected with most major European and German cities, but direct intercontinental flights have been limited because of historical reasons. Before Booking Your Flight A typical direct flight between London and Berlin will last about 1 hour and 50 minutes, while connecting flights will take almost 3 hours and 5 minutes. You’ll have plenty of options to travel from London to Berlin by plane, or vice-versa, because there are more than 13 flights connecting these 2 capitals. The most important airline companies offering this service are Ryanair, easyJet, British Airways, Norwegian Air Shuttle and Germanwings. You should know that low-cost carriers such as Germanwings and Ryanair will land on Schönefeld Airport, while first-class airlines like British Airways will arrive at Tegel International Airport. Schönefeld Airport is situated in south-eastern Berlin and it’s connected with the capital city by train (S-Bahn and Express Train). Tegel International Airport sits in the north-western part of Berlin, and it’s only connected with the capital by bus. There is no railway station at Tegel. In fact, Tegel railway station will only refer to the village known as Tegel, which is no way connected with the airport. Ryanair Ryanair is a low-cost airline based in Ireland, Swords. Their operational base in London is at Stansted Airport. One of Ryanair’s latest features is the Business Plus fare, including airport check-in free of charge, premium seats, priority boarding, fast track airport security and unlimited flight changes. Being one of the cheapest airline companies operating between London and Berlin, Ryanair can offer you some of the lowest prices for almost all flights. They also offer great experiences on board through their Inflight Magazine, from which you can order anything, from sandwiches to perfumes and jewellery. Thus, you’ll have a mini shopping mall on the plane. EasyJet Another low-cost company operating in Berlin is EasyJet. It is a British carrier, with its base at Luton Airport. Even though it’s not as traditional as Ryanair, it does have its share of great services offered to whoever chooses to fly with them. Their flights can be booked exclusively online and their aircrafts benefit from only one class. Also, even though you are not offered complimentary beverages or meals, you have the possibility to buy products on board thanks to the EasyJet Bistro feature. You can choose from items like soft and alcoholic drinks, chocolate, sandwiches and hot drinks. Additional services provided by EasyJet are EasyJet Holidays and EasyJet Hotels. Thus, if you choose to fly with this company, you might even benefit from a city break or special holiday. Just browse the Berlin offers before booking your flight. British Airways If you’re looking for comfort when traveling by plane, then British Airways might be the right option for you. They are a long-established UK flag carrier and serve hundreds of destinations all over the world, including Berlin. They provide four major travel classes to cater for every budget and preference. First class is reserved for international flights, including fine dining and luxurious lounges in your own private suite. Premium economy service is also available for international flights only. As compared to the economy class, you will benefit from wider seats in smaller cabins and full bar service. Business class is available for both world and European flights, including private lounges, priority boarding, larger baggage allowance and complimentary drink and food service. Last, but not least, there is the economy class offered for international, European and UK flights. Even though the price will be lower, you will still benefit from services like complimentary snacks and drinks and activity packs for children. Norwegian Air Shuttle Simply known as Norwegian, this low-cost airline company is one of the largest in Europe when it comes to passenger numbers. With lots of additional services that come in handy for every traveller, Norwegian features no less than 20 million passengers per year. They only offer economy class seating and you will have to pay for on-board drinks and snacks. It does provide free Wi-Fi services in its planes. Most passengers are attracted by its reward programs offered for frequent flyers. The Norwegian Reward feature will offer 2% cash point on discounted fares and 10% cash point on full fares. The companies can take advantage of the program called Corporate Reward, which works on a similar basis. Two interesting features offered by Norwegian are SMS Ticket, which allows you to get through the gate and checkpoint by simply presenting a SMS with the ticket, and the Travel Assistant, a mobile app offering information about flexible tickets, completed flights, boarding cards, seat reservations, fast track options etc. Germanwings Germanwings is owned by Lufthansa and its Berlin base is at Tegel International Airport. The company provides three fare types: Best, Smart and Basic. With Best, you can benefit from free drinks and snacks, two pieces of luggage, lounge access and free adjacent seat. Smart fare will allow you to get one drink and snack on board and to choose your preferred seating. Finally, the Basic fare doesn’t include free catering, but enables you to check-in one hand-luggage. Despite of these fares, you should bear in mind that the fleet only features economy class. Some additional services offered by Germanwings are the inflight magazine and the Sky Bistro that allows you to purchase drinks and food on board. Germanwings also offers support for disabled passengers with wheelchairs and guide dogs. Passengers who need assistance from guide dogs should register in advance to see if there is any free space for the guide dog, as there is a limit of one dog per flight. Restaurants Your experience as a tourist in the beautiful Berlin would not be complete without a fine dinner in a top restaurant and the German capital boasts of such eating places. There are, of course, a few popular dishes that you should try, like for example Döner or currywurst. The latter can also be purchased on the street. Some of the most trusted and well-known currywurst stands are Curry 36 in Kreuzberg and Konnopke’s Imbiss near Eberswalder Strasse train station. Reinstoff Opened in 2009, this restaurant has immediately become a staple for the high-class locals and tourists. Featuring only avant-garde haute cuisine, Reinstoff will immediately become your favourite restaurant in Berlin. As you may reckon, the prices can get quite high, but if you’re in for an innovative experience, then you mustn’t miss this absolutely amazing place. The interior is black and looks fairly industrial, but it goes hand in hand with the molecular gastronomy practiced by the best chefs in town. An interesting thing about this place is that all their dishes are accompanied by labels like “far away” or “quite near”. Basically, this states if the ingredients were local or sourced from foreign areas. If you’re looking for exotic dishes, try the “far away” label. On the other hand, if you want to stick to the familiar, you can’t go wrong with the “quite near” label. Don’t forget to choose the perfect exquisite wine for your meal. The waiters will be more than happy to help you with this. Facil For a quiet afternoon or evening, Facil is the best bet. Located in the heart of the city, in the stunning Potsdamer Platz, this restaurant is extremely chic and stylish and, besides featuring extraordinary cuisine, it is also a great place for relaxation. With a selection of dishes based on traditional German and international cuisine, Facil will tickle all your senses and make you want to come back for more. It offers a little something for everyone, including seafood, fish, meat and even vegetarian dishes for those who have embraced the vegan lifestyle. Lutter & Wegner For a taste of pure Berlin, go no further than Lutter & Wegner. From its German name, you can imagine that this restaurant is specialized in Bavarian cuisine and serves some of the best schnitzels in the capital. With a long history of more than 200 years, this restaurant has managed to preserve its traditional touch and attract more and more clients every year. From delicious soups and salads to one-of-a-kind main dishes and desserts, Lutter & Wegner is made to impress you with every bite you take. If you’re looking for a meal you cannot go wrong with, then try the marinated roast beef (sauerbraten) and the Wiener schnitzel. Grill Royal Berlin might not be best-known for steakhouses and grill, but Café Royal is that one exception that strengthens the rule. It is a fine gourmet steakhouse with a long tradition in serving the juiciest and most delicious steaks. Just by listing some of the people who have visited this place – Marilyn Manson, Damien Hirst and Penelope Cruz – you will understand why it is a must to visit it. With a beautiful retro chic décor, Grill Royal is the perfect place for a romantic or family dinner. Fish and, obviously, meat are the main ingredients for their dishes, so if you’re not a “carnivore”, then you might want to stay away from this place. It is located near the Spree, which offers well-deserved cool breezes in the summer, when the windows of the restaurant open. The Bird On the budget side, you will find The Bird, a German American restaurant serving some of the best burgers and steaks in the capital. Resembling more of New York than of Berlin, this restaurant is a true reminder of the city’s multiculturalism. Don’t miss the “angry hour”, taking place from 6pm till 9pm daily. You’ll receive spicy chicken wings for 25 cents and two Schneider Weisse beers for the price of one. The burgers are also on the “must-try” list. They are always fresh and mixed with delicious caramelised onions and melted cheese. Also, the fries are perfectly cooked and when dipped in one of the various sauces in the menu, they become a sinner’s heaven. As a British, you will also enjoy the tasty English muffins offered as dessert. Vau If it’s German cuisine you’re interested in, then Vau is the perfect restaurant for you. They specialize in local fish and game dishes, served in a classical, yet urbane décor. The atmosphere is always warm and friendly, so if you’re not looking for anything too formal, then this might be the right place for you. Vau is located in Gendarmenmarkt and it allows you enjoy delicacies like fried veal tongue accompanied by horseradish, beetroot and watercress or rabbit rillettes and brawn served alongside orange cream, walnut and chicory. The attention for detail is everything in restaurant, so, besides the appetizing dishes, you will also be able to enjoy the beautifully and artistically arranged plates. Borchardt Borchardt is the traditional Berlin brasserie serving exceptional steaks and schnitzel and featuring raw bar selections. The restaurant is situated in Gendarmenmarkt and was first opened in 1853, but relocated from its original spot after Second World War. The delicious food is not the only thing that attracts in this restaurant, as its design is also extremely appreciated. The mosaics and marble columns will surely transform your dinner in a majestic experience together with your friends and family. Last, but not least, it should be mentioned that this amazing restaurant is often visited by top celebrities like Mick Jagger and Barack Obama. Weather Some good news for you, the British traveller, is that Berlin is not that rainy and foggy as London. Even though it’s not one of the warmest destinations in the world, the German capital benefits from an oceanic-continental climate with hot summers and quite cold winters. If you’re trying to escape from London’s rain, then you should avoid going to Berlin in June, because this is the wettest month. Also, you could avoid January and February, as they can feature freezing temperatures. The Sunny Berlin The best months to visit the beautiful Berlin are May, July and August. Around this time of the year, the weather is warm and pleasant and you will also benefit from 10 – 11 hours of sunshine. Also, a lot of events and festivals take place in the summer in Berlin. Some of the most notable are Fete de la Musique (21 June), Classic Open Air Gendarmenmarkt (July), Karneval der Kulturen (May; similar to Notting Hill Carnival in London) and Berliner Bierfestival (August). However, precisely because of these numerous festivals, Berlin can get quite crowded in the warm season. The average temperatures for a summer in Berlin are between 16°C and 25°C, making it the perfect weather for strolling around the city streets, relaxing in the parks, eating ice creams at the numerous ice cream stores and enjoying the capital’s top attractions. Even though June is the wettest month, it is also the sunniest, with an average of 222 hours of sunshine. Some of the things you should not miss if you choose to visit Berlin the summer are the famous beach bars located along the Spree. They’re decorated with beach chairs, swimming pools and palm trees and will make you feel like you’re at the seaside. Also, don’t miss the chance of renting a boat and enjoying the beautiful bridges and canals of Berlin, which are five times as many as in the famous Venice. The Chilly Christmas Spirit of Berlin Winter is a chilly season in Berlin and if you don’t like cold weather, you should probably avoid visiting the city around this time of the year. Still, December remains a magical month in Germany’s capital thanks to the numerous Christmas markets organized in the city. It’s one of the top destinations for holidays and the best place to meet Santa Claus and ask him for those presents you’re waiting for. It is, however a peak season, so the hotels, shops and the entire city can get extremely crowded. The average temperatures for December are between 2°C and -3°C, so bring your coat and hat and expect plenty of snowfall and icy roads. The coldest winter month is January, with the average temperatures below 0°C. It is also the month with the least sunshine hours (only 46 hours). A good thing to know about Berlin in winter is that the city doesn’t stay covered in snow for too long. The Best Times to Visit Berlin Spring and autumn are probably the best seasons for visiting Berlin for those who don’t like crowded streets and traffic jams. Also, these seasons are neither too hot, nor too cold and will allow you to completely relax and enjoy the vibe and beauty of the city. Spring in Berlin starts in March and ends in June and offers the capital a specific charm that you won’t find in any other season. The average temperatures are somewhere around 13°C and 15°C during the afternoon. In the evening, they can decrease as low as 4°C, so bringing a jacket with you might seem like a sensible decision. There will be heavy showers in spring, but they won’t usually last for long and will go away as quickly as they came. So, overall, Berlin is a stunning city in spring. The early months of autumn, September and October, are wonderful in Berlin, as they cover the city in colourful fallen leaves. Also, the weather gets chillier, but still temperate. The average high temperature for October is 14°C and for September is 18°C. A jacket, a scarf and an umbrella are the only accessories you need around this time of the year. November is not as friendly as the other autumn months, with the average high temperature of only 8°C during the day and 4°C during the night. So, the weather gets quite cold for the tourists. On rare occasions, snowfall has been seen in November, but this is not a usual thing for this time of the year. Besides the above-mentioned reasons, by going for an off-season holiday in Berlin you can also save money on plane tickets and hotel reservations. You will make your vacation a lot cheaper, but you’ll still be able to explore the best of Berlin. Nightlife Berlin might not be the first city that comes to your mind when thinking about wild and vibrant nightlife, but you should know that Germany’s capital has its share of parties, festivals and concerts that must not be missed. Here you can find everything you search for, from classical theatre to hip bars and underground clubs. You just have to know where to look for the right night location for you. Best Night Districts One of the most touristy night districts in Berlin is Mitte. Here you’ll discover some of the top bars and clubs in the city. As a tourist, you might find it quite difficult to enter some of the selective clubs, so a local guide would be of great help in this kind of situation. For something more chic, visit the Auguststraße in Mitte. It is the gallery district of Berlin, where you’ll find lots of museums, exhibitions, ballrooms and exquisite restaurants. Osthafen is one of the newest additions to Berlin’s night districts. The former industrial port has become famous after MTV established its location in a warehouse around the area. This happened in 2004 and since then, Osthafen has become a top location for outdoor parties. It also features a swimming pool, trade fairs, concerts, lots of clubs and various beach bars. It is certainly the youngster’s favourite location during the summer. Schöneberg is a night district with tradition, as it gathers people from all around the world since the 1920s. Don’t miss the magnificent “El Dorado” bar that gained its fame due to Marlene Dietrich, who frequented this place regularly. Some of the top locations in the area are: Habibi Arab Restaurant that will stay open till 3am daily, Slumberland, where you’ll have the chance to enjoy West African music, and Café Berio, one of the oldest in Schöneberg. The quarter is also gay friendly. For other large gay communities, you can visit Nollendorfplatz. When talking about nightlife in Berlin, we cannot overlook the Savignyplatz district. This is the place where you cannot get bored, as there is always something happening here. Don’t miss the 12 Apostel Restaurant, with its delicious pizza, and Schwarzes Café that is almost always opened and has a very friendly atmosphere. If you’re into jazz, then Quasimodo will be the perfect place for you. This amazing cellar features fine and smooth jazz, alongside soul and funk and it’s opened till late. Hit the Clubs Taking into consideration that most of the world-famous DJs are coming from Germany and / or Berlin, there is no wonder that this city features more than 200 clubs. Except for the highly selective ones, where tourists will have a hard time getting in, there are still numerous off the beaten clubs that will always welcome foreigners. As compared to most European cities and capitals, entrance to Berlin clubs is quite accessible (€5 - €10), but it does not include drinks. The above-mentioned Mitte is the top clubbing district in Berlin, but Prenzlauer Berg and Friedrichshain-Kreuzberg are also highly-appreciated. If you’re looking for something more mainstream, then you’ll have to visit Potsdamer Platz and Charlottenburg. There is at least one club for every genre of music (techno, mainstream, electro, alternative rock, 60s beat etc.), so there will surely be one for your tastes, too. If you want to get a taste of Berlin’s clubbing scene, then you should plan your visit on a weekend, as most clubs are opened from Thursday till Saturday. The parties last till the morning and Berlin is known for its long after hours that can reach Monday evening in some cases. One of the most famous techno clubs in Berlin is Tresor. It was closed in 2005, but reopened in 2007 and now it’s located in a power plant in Mitte. Their parties will start on Wednesdays, but the Saturdays are reserved for the top DJs. For something more stylish, go to 40 Seconds. This is actually the amount of time you’ll need to get to the dance floor with the elevator. This club has everything: house and R’n’B music, a fine dinner area, three amazing roof terraces and stunning views of Berlin. If you usually think out of the box and don’t mind the sexual freedom, then you might like KitKatClub, the place with the best trance, electro and techno music. Every evening has a strict dress code that must be respected. If you visit this place, be prepared for nonstop parties throughout the weekend. A Movie Night in Berlin If you’re not a fan of clubbing, but still want to enjoy a pleasant night in Berlin, then maybe a movie night is the best choice for you. There are numerous cinema and film festivals to help you with this. If you’re visiting the city during summer, then the numerous open air movie theatres will certainly appeal to you. Freiluftkino Friedrichshain in Volkspark Friedrichshain allows people to sit on the grass and enjoy the movies they show. You can also bring your own snacks. Other open air cinemas that you can enjoy are: Open Air Kreuzberg (the oldest in the city), Sommerkino Kulturforum and Rehberge. The city is, of course, filled with classic cinemas that show blockbusters, classics, art house movies and current films. Also, when it comes to movies, you should not miss the Berlinale, advertised as the largest public film festival in the world. It takes place annually in February and it brings together film buffs and worldwide movie stars. Travel Tips Berlin is a city that’s easy to travel to, being accessible by plane, train, bus and car. Still, some travel tips on how to spend your time in the capital are always welcomed. So, Berlin sits in north-eastern Germany and it’s connected with most of the other German cities and towns by train and bus. It’s also connected by plane with larger cities such as Frankfurt and Munich. It is the largest city in Germany and it’s divided into 6 districts: South, Mitte, East, City West, North and East Central. Berlin has 2 airports: Schönefeld in south-east Berlin and Tegel International Airport in north-west Berlin. There are plans to open a third airport – Berlin Brandenburg Airport – that will soon take in all the traffic from the former 2 airports. The opening date is still subject to debate and delays. Transport from Tegel International Airport There are a couple of buses operating between Tegel Airport and Central Berlin. Buses X9 and 109 will take you to the Zoologischer Garten and bus TXL stops at Hauptbahnhof and Alexanderplatz. They practice the standard ticket fare. The journey till Alexanderplatz will last about 45 minutes, but you can get down at Zoologischer Garten or Hauptbahnhof and take the S-Bahn from there. You can use the same bus ticket. There is no train connecting Tegel Airport with the city and the airport has no railway station. If you see any train with the sign “Tegel railway Station (S-Bahn)”, don’t take it because it doesn’t go to the airport. The station refers to a village called Tegel and it does not make reference to the airport. Also, keep in mind that you cannot get to Tegel airport from that station. The taxi transfer between Tegel Airport and Central Berlin will be almost €25. The taxi rank is located outside the airport and you can easily spot the taxis by their black/yellow TAXI sign and their yellow colour. When illuminated, it means the car is vacant. All Berlin taxis are metered, so you’ll pay for the exact number of mileage. Transport from Schönefeld Airport Schönefeld Airport is served by both trains and buses. A train ticket between this airport and Berlin will cost about €3.20. You can take the S-Bahn trains (S45 and S9) that depart every 10 minutes, but the trick with these trains is that they stop in every station, making the journey extremely long. A journey between Schönefeld and Central Berlin with S-Bahn trains can last up to one hour. Instead, you can use the Express Trains (RB14 and RE7) that will make a maximum of 35 minutes till the Zoologischer Garten. They run every 30 minutes, between 5 in the morning and 11.30 in the evening. They are also more comfortable than the S-Bahn trains. In what regards the buses, you can take routes 171, X7 and the night route N7. All of them connect you to the city’s underground lines, U Rudow. To get to the centre of the city, take line U7 from there. A journey by taxi between Schönefeld Airport and the city will cost approximately €45. There is a taxi rank outside Terminal A and, as mentioned above, the taxis are easy to spot. Don’t take any taxi that does not have the TAXI sign and it’s not metered. Car Rental Services Renting a car from the airport to the city will be an extremely easy task. At Tegel Airport, you will find the car rental centre close to car park P2 and Terminal E. There are six car rental services operating at the airport (Terstappen, Avis Budget, Sixt, Enterprise, Hertz and Europcar) and in most cases, you must book the car in advance. However, some companies might have available cars on the spot. At Schönefeld Airport, you can find the car rental centre outside Terminal A. This airport is served by 5 car rental firms (Terstappen, Avis Budget, Sixt, Hertz and Europcar) and it’s advisable to make the booking prior to your arrival so as to make sure there will be a vehicle available at your arrival. Public Transportation in Berlin Berlin benefits from an extremely efficient and well done public transportation system which includes trams, buses, ferries, commuter rail and underground. For a picturesque ride with pre-war trams, you must go to East Berlin. The commuter rail (S-Bahn) and the underground (U-Bahn) are the fastest ways to get from one part of the city to another, but if you want a form of transportation that covers the entire city, then you should opt for the bus. There is one type of ticket that can be used for all means of transport and there are three tariff zones. For zones A and B, the one-way ticket will be €2.60 and for zones A, B and C, you will have to pay €3.20 per ticket. The ticket will allow you to make unlimited changes between trams, buses and trains. Children between 6 and 13 years of age will benefit from reduced rates. There are a number of passes that you can use. For short rides of maximum 3 S-Bahn or U-Bahn stops or 6 tram or bus stops, you can use the Kurzstreckentarif ticket that will cost €1.50. If you plan to travel more than this, then you’ll need the Tageskarte, which is a day card available for all forms of transport and you can use it till 3am. The pass for all three zones is €7.20 and the pass for zones A and B is €6.70. The best deal for public transportation in Berlin is the 7-day pass, also known as 7-Tage-Karte. It costs €35.60 for all fare zones and €28.80 for zones A and B and it offers unlimited travel. All these types of tickets can be purchased from the vending machines located in S-bahn and U-bahn stations. Remember that a ticket is only available after you validate it on board of the bus / train. Since the public transportation system in Berlin is so efficient, renting a car in the city is scarcely recommended. Traffic is milder as compared to other big European cities, but can still get heavy at rush hour, not to mention that parking is quite expensive. Thus, stick on public transit and save the money for top attractions and fine dining. History If you’re a history buff, then there will be plenty for you to see and learn in Berlin. Germany’s capital stands on historic grounds and it’s believed to have been inhabited since pre-Christian times by Slavic Wends, Burgundian tribes and Germanic Swabian. However, no one knows for sure where the name “Berlin” originates. Some say it was given by the West Slavic inhabitants, meaning “swamp” in Old Polabian (“birl-” or “berl-”). Others associate the name with the German term “Bär” (“bear”). Berlin’s coat of arms actually features a bear. Early Evidences There have been found evidences of modern settlements in the area of Berlin that date from 1174 (wooden house parts) and 1192 (a wooden rod). Also, the oldest written records about villages in the area are from the 12th century. Köpenick dates from 1209 and Spandau was founded in 1197, but these villages became part of Berlin much later, in 1920. Today’s Central Berlin was mentioned for the first time in 1237, under the name Cölln. The year 1237 is also celebrated as the city’s founding date. Finally, the name Berlin, referring to today’s capital, was first mentioned in 1244. Later, in the 15th century, Berlin-Cölln was recognized for the first time as a capital, being the “headquarters” of the Margraviate of Brandenburg established by Frederick I. Since then, Berlin was ruled by the Hohenzollern family, which has given, depending on the era, numerous German emperors, kings of Prussia and electors of Brandenburg. The Hohenzollern epoch ended in 1918. The Modernization of Berlin The 17th century (1618-1648) brought the Thirty Years’ War, which literally destroyed Berlin. Fifty per cent of the population died and one third of the buildings were devastated. Slowly, Berlin was rebuilt and repopulated and by 1700, most of the city’s residents were immigrants coming from France, Salzburg, Poland and Bohemia. The Kingdom of Prussia was founded in 1701 and Berlin was named its capital. From that moment, Berlin began its growth and in 1709, it merged with Dorotheenstadt, Friedrichstadt, Friedrichswerder and Cölln. It was known as Haupt-und Residenzstadt Berlin. In the 19th century, Berlin became even more powerful thanks to the Industrial Revolution that increased the city’s population and economy. In no time, Berlin became Germany’s major economic centre and incorporated various other areas, such as Moabit and Wedding. In the late 19th century, the German Empire was founded and, obviously, Berlin was named its capital. Early 20th Century and World War II The beginning of the 20th century was one of the best periods for Berlin, as it became larger, with 100% more population as compared to the previous century. At the same time, during the 1920s, the city was recognized as a world capital, famous for its unsurpassed leadership in industries, science, film, humanities, government and higher education. A decade later, all this hype and growth would be discontinued, as the power was taken over by the Nazi Party and Adolf Hitler. The Jewish population in Berlin was destroyed, as some of them emigrated, while others became victims of the Holocaust and were sent to Auschwitz and other such death camps. World War II brought a lot of damage to the city. The Battle of Berlin and the air raids between 1943 and 1945 destroyed most of the city, including significant attractions such as Reichstag and the Brandenburg Gate. The War ended in 1945, but Berlin wasn’t even close to peace and unification. The city was divided into four areas, which were occupied by the Soviet Union (East Berlin) and France, the United Kingdom and the United States (West Berlin). In 1949, this led to the foundation of the Marxist-Leninist German Democratic Republic in East Germany, under the leadership of the Soviets, and the Federal Republic of Germany in West Germany, administered by the French, British and Americans. As a result, the Cold War tensions increased, especially that East Germany surrounded West Berlin entirely. Therefore, West Germany was forced to establish its government and temporary capital in Bonn. The Berlin Wall A significant moment in Berlin’s history is the construction of the famous Berlin Wall that separated the western and eastern sides of the city. It was built in 1961. Strictly controlled checkpoints were installed, but people from West Berlin were allowed to pass to East Berlin. On the other hand though, Easterners could not get to West Germany or West Berlin. The Wall was reinforced with 45,000 sections of concrete, 250 guard dogs, 300 watchtowers and almost 80 miles of fencing. Even though it was almost impossible to escape, around 5,000 Easterners were able to get on the Western side. On 9 November 1989, the Berlin Wall finally fell and was almost completely destroyed in the following weeks. The East Side Gallery is the largest part of the Wall that has survived till date. Germany was reunified in 1990, when it became the Federal Republic of Germany, with Berlin as official capital. The government was moved to Berlin in 1991. Present Days After such disturbing and unfortunate history, Berlin has risen from its own ashes like a phoenix and has become the wonderful and powerful city we know today. Currently, the German capital is a world leader in science, media, politics, culture and industry. Moreover, it features tens of globally famous museums, universities, festivals, entertainment venues and orchestras. The former East Berlin in particular has become a cultural hub that attracts youngsters and artists from all around the world. So, don’t miss the chance of visiting one of the most beautiful and modern European cities. You’ll have the opportunity to enjoy amazing contemporary arts, vibrant and wild nightlife, diverse architecture, rich history and significant attractions that will definitely fill your soul with joy and beauty.