- A cosmopolitan city that has something for everyone
- A combination of the past and present to inspire the mind
- A varied selection of places to eat and drink
This vibey, cosmopolitan city steeped in modern history really does have something for everyone. There are plenty of fabulously central four-star hotels with iconic landmarks on hand (or step just outside the centre and you’ll get five stars for the same budget!) Getting there is easy too, with regular flights from most regional airports into both Berlin airports.
Once there, you can’t miss the obvious tourist traps of Checkpoint Charlie, the Brandenburg Gate and the remnants of the infamous Wall. Here are just a small selection of our must-do’s and must try’s!
Hunting High and Low
If you have a head for heights, you can try the high ropes course at the Beach Mitte beach club. Berlin is, indeed, completely landlocked! It just also happens to have a beach club with beach-volley courts, and a great bar serving food, beer and cocktails.
Alternatively, head underground into one of the last remaining air raid shelters from the second world war. Behind the inconspicuous green door, you’ll find yourself sharing the space where civilians huddled as 80% of the city centre was destroyed above their heads. You’ll also hear stories about the tunnels built by East Berliners attempting to escape their communist rulers, and the cat and mouse game that ensued as the authorities did everything they could to stop them.
Self-Drive
Arguably the best way to see the sights is by taking to the road in a self-drive Trabant tour. This is a unique opportunity to drive this iconic vehicle and see the best of Berlin both on and off the tourist track.
The 2-cylinder “Trabi” as it is affectionately known, has been said to look like a cross between a golf cart and bumper car. The car was manufactured in East Germany and was the most venerated object of desire from behind the Iron Curtain.
If you would prefer something with a racier look, there are also great tour options available in Hot Rods. A two-hour tour will take you over the Warsaw Bridge offering a spectacular view of the Berlin skyline. Next you will drive along the East Side Gallery, where art history can be celebrated in the open air. Afterwards, the constantly changing Alexanderplatz and the crowning glory of the symbol of the Prussian metropolis, the Brandenburg Gate. Seeing and being seen is guaranteed.
Food and Drink
Berlin has some fantastic options…
Berlin Zoo has many options that are utterly unique. How about eating dinner in a West-African savannah or rainforest with hippos and pygmy hippos effortlessly swimming past, the light reflecting from the water and dancing around the room. Or just around the corner you can get an aerial view of the city and the zoo from NENI. The cuisine is a modern mix of Mediterranean and Persian and the vibe is casual.
Wander a little further and your will find Café am Neuen a fairy-light-lit al fresco restaurant situated within a Biergarten – perfect for a long summer evening of food and drink with friends and colleagues. This place is super popular with locals and visitors alike.
Back in the centre of the City, we love Augustiner am Gendarmenmarkt for traditional Bavarian food and beer! The Dirndl- and Lederhosen-clad crew are attentive, accommodating and knowledgeable. The home-style food comes in portions that are generous and hearty – from currywurst to pork knuckles and everything in between. This place is both legendary and excellent value for money.