Berlin is one of the most diverse cities in Europe – it’s a melting pot of cultures and nations. Even though it’s been through hard times and suffered from the Nazi period, it is a city that still has much to offer.
For example, you can get 360-degree views of Berlin from the top of the Reichstag dome. It’s a free guided tour and you can book it online.
History
Berlin has a long history dating back to its founding as a city in the 13th century. It was the result of a merge (technically, just a union) of two twin towns – Colln and Berlin – which were both Slavic in origin and Germanic in nature.
The city’s rich and enduring cultural and economic output was fueled by immigration from around the world. French Huguenots fleeing religious persecution were welcomed here in the 16th century; later, many Jewish families moved to the city from Vienna and Bohemia, and Slavic people from East Germany and Poland joined them.
After the end of World War II, Berlin was divided into West Berlin and East Berlin. The former became a Western-style city, while the latter was a Soviet-style one.
Architecture
Berlin’s architectural heritage has a rich array of historical, political and ephemeral influences. From Prussian monarchism to Nazism, East German communism and the Cold War, each government has left their mark on Berlin’s unique architecture.
While some of the city’s most iconic buildings were destroyed during WWII, others have been restored or are being reconstructed. The city’s renowned architects include Mies van der Rohe, Peter Behrens and Walter Gropius.
There’s plenty to explore in Berlin, from medieval monasteries to post-reunification experiments by Modernist stars like Frank Gehry and Rem Koolhaas. Alternatively, hop on a walking tour and let an expert guide you around key landmarks, including the neoclassical Neue Wache memorial and the baroque facades of Humboldt Forum.
Food
Berlin has long been a melting pot of culture. That has never been more evident than in the gastronomy of the city.
There are many hearty German dishes that have become popular in Berlin, including Currywurst (boiled and fried pork sausages) served with ketchup and fries and Eisbein mit Sauerkraut or Pork Knuckle on Sauerkraut.
The Berliner, a doughnut made from sweet yeast dough and topped with marmalade or jam, is also a must-try dessert in Berlin. It’s a staple pastry in the city and can be found at every corner bakery.
Nightlife
Berlin is one of the world’s leading nightlife capitals. From thumping techno clubs to sophisticated lounges with spectacular views, there’s something for everyone to enjoy in this city that never sleeps.
The city’s club scene is known for a progressive and diverse way of partying, welcoming people from all walks of life to come together and celebrate the weekend. And it’s not uncommon for the scene to start early on Friday nights, and last well into the small hours of Monday morning.
Some of the best venues are located in Mitte, Prenzlauer Berg and Kreuzberg-Friedrichshain. These districts are all famous for their vibrant nightlife scenes.
Shopping
Berlin is a true shopping capital that flaunts a versatile mix of big department stores, upscale malls and stylish streets filled with sleek boutiques. You’ll find everything from coveted designer labels to super-small brands that hand sew raincoats, making Berlin a definite destination for every shopping need and taste.
You’ll also discover a number of flea markets in Berlin, where you can pick up quirky treasures at bargain prices. Alternatively, you can shop in one of the city’s several cultural bookstores, such as Dussmann das KulturKaufhaus.
The most famous shopping street in Berlin, Kurfurstendamm, offers five kilometers of shopping pleasure with a variety of known brands, smaller boutiques and department stores. The area is also home to a large mall, Europacenter.