Enticing enthusiasts of arts, culture and history, this enigmatic city exudes a profound atmosphere of creativity and its storied past is evident around every corner

Set on either side of the Spree River, this multifaceted destination, the compelling capital of Germany, underwent years of division and turmoil during the Cold War, culminating in the destruction of the Berlin Wall in 1989.

Today, a reunified and welcoming metropolis is what awaits those who enter this laid-back city – a particularly alluring magnet for visitors seeking outlets of inspiration or opportunities for cultural immersion. Regarded as one of Europe’s top start-up capitals and home to a profusion of festivals, museums, art galleries and theatres, Berlin is bound to appease with its easy-going Bohemian outlook and assortment of enthralling sights.

  • Seek out the towering 18th-century neoclassical Brandenburg Gate.
  • Visit one of the home of the German Government in Berlin, the Reichstag Building.
  • Walk along the outdoor memorial of the Berlin Wall.
  • Explore Museum Island UNESCO World Heritage Site.
  • Stop by Checkpoint Charlie – the Cold War crossing point of East and West Berlin.
  • Wander by the open-air East Side Gallery and its graffiti murals.
  • Hear heartbreaking stories at the Holocaust Memorial.
  • Inspect the city’s eye-catching street art.

As a result of the bombings and battles of World War II, and the demolitions during the post-war period, Berlin’s cityscape is an amalgamation of architectural designs and a fusion of several styles. Exploring its streets by foot is the best method of taking in the highlights and getting a real feel for its exceptionally unique ambience while understanding more about the journey of this city and its people through history.

To see the brilliance of Berlin from above, venture to the top of the Fernsehturm, Germany’s tallest structure at 368m, dominating the skyline. Here, you can look out from the observation deck and bar – a wonderfully ideal spot to conclude your day or to kick-start your evening experiencing the city’s renowned nightlife.

A tale of two cities, Berlin is fascinating to explore and a couple of days is needed to delve into the historical sites alone. Guides will bring to life the horrors of the wars, life under the Nazis, as a city divided and the jubilance at the fall of the wall. Despite a relatively bleak past, Berlin is thriving with independent shops, markets and designers, innovative restaurants and bars, and a renowned club scene, which makes this a fun city to spend time. No visit to Berlin is complete with visiting a traditional biergarten for fresh beer and lively conversation.

Kate Herz
Senior Travel Designer

Our favourite places to stay in Berlin