As you stroll through the streets of East Berlin prepare to succumb to the liberal, cosmopolitan feel that sweeps through its streets.  It is a part of Europe which has most successfully used its historical surroundings to its advantage, creating a unique juxtaposition of old and new, making it one of the continents’s most sought after destinations.  From art galleries, landmark sites to a thriving nightlife and a buoyant culture, Berlin truly is a place experiencing a glorious rejuvenation. 
 
The many historical retreats of Berlin offer an endless amount of deeply fascinating excursions which will educate and awe in equal measure.  When wandering throughout the city, you will pass some of the country’s most legendary landmarks that reflect the passing of time and changing histories.  One particularly moving site is the perennial symbol of the Cold War, the Berlin Wall that stood for 28 years and served as a physical barrier between East and West Berlin.  The East Side Gallery is a great place to visit and observe the fall of the wall; the gallery is a 1.3km section of the Berlin Wall, which is painted with art work by artists from all over the world.  Known as the ‘memorial for freedom’, it is the longest open air gallery in the world.
 
Other historical monuments that are certainly worth visiting are Checkpoint Charlie, the famous crossing point between East and West Berlin during the Cold War; take a picture next to a costumed guard, browse the open air exhibit and look around the Museum.  One piece of architecture which is also particularly hard to avoid in Berlin is the Brandenburg Gate.  Although an artefact of past Prussian glory, it took on a different meaning once the wall fell, symbolising the unification of East and West Berlin.
 
It is considered almost a cardinal sin to go to Germany and not sample the cuisine; the traditional foods of the area include ‘currywurst’; or the nation’s favourite sausage that is flavoured with curry and ketchup.  The restaurant scene in Berlin encapsulates the city’s diversity and flair for invention with a select few Michelin starred places to dine.  Highlights include French infused creations at Fischers Fritz which overlooks the Gedarmenmarkt square, or the grandiose Lorenz Adlon; situated near the Brandenburg Gate it is one of the country’s best restaurants and serves exquisite gourmet food.
 
Berlin is celebrated around the world for its pulsating nightlife, which is just as varied as it is vibrant -all-night partying is very much the norm.  As one of the most fashionable cities in the world, Berlin boasts some trendy bars and edgy venues.  The city is particularly known for is its techno scene, and Watergate is one of its most popular venues.  However, the city boasts around 300 different clubs, including one in a reconstructed swimming pool and another that occupies an old Western-style house.
 
Diversity is the running theme of Berlin, and nowhere is this more apparent than in the culture of the city.  There is a wealth of cultural institutions enshrined in tradition standing alongside venues that celebrate their independent experimental credentials.  The three opera houses of Unter den Linden, the Deutsche Oper and the Komische Oper host a variety of internationally acclaimed productions, whilst art lovers will delight in the city’s wide range of art galleries that house a number of masterpieces and modern installations. 
 
With a calendar that is packed to the rafters with events such as the Berlin Music Festival, the Berlinale Film Festival and historical celebrations such as Reunification Day, visitors won’t know where to start in the city that is pulsating with a raw yet chic sense of style.  

Share this article: