The Best Things About Berlin

Berlin is one of the most vibrant cities in the world and is known for its unique culture and atmosphere. As the capital of Germany, Berlin has a lot to offer visitors, from incredible historical sites to world-class museums and galleries, as well as an exciting nightlife. There are plenty of things to do in Berlin and it can be difficult to narrow down your options. That’s why we’ve put together this guide to the best things about Berlin so that you can make sure you make the most of your trip.

A Brief History of Berlin

Berlin was originally founded in the 13th century and was first mentioned in documents in 1237. The city was the capital of Prussia from 1701 until the end of the World War II. In the 19th century, Berlin grew rapidly and became an important cultural center, with a population of nearly two million by 1900. The city was divided into East and West Berlin following the end of World War II and the division of Germany into two states. From 1949-1989, East Berlin was part of the German Democratic Republic, while West Berlin was part of the Federal Republic of Germany. This division of the city lasted until 1989, when the Berlin Wall was opened and East and West Germany were united. Since then, Berlin has experienced a period of intense urban development and has become one of Europe’s most important cities.

Today, Berlin is home to over 3.5 million people and is Germany’s largest city. The city is known for its diverse cultural scene, its vibrant art scene, and its eclectic nightlife. In addition to its many cultural attractions, Berlin also boasts some of the best public transportation systems in the world, making it easy to explore the city.

Berlin’s Best Attractions

When you visit Berlin, you won’t want to miss some of its best attractions. From iconic landmarks to world-class museums, there’s something for everyone in Berlin. Here are some of the top things to do in Berlin:

The Brandenburg Gate

The Brandenburg Gate is one of the most iconic landmarks in Berlin and is a symbol of the city’s reunification. Located in the heart of the city, the Brandenburg Gate was built in 1791 as a symbol of peace. The gate is surrounded by a park and is a popular spot for tourists to take pictures.

Museum Island

Museum Island is an UNESCO World Heritage Site and is home to five world-class museums. The Pergamon Museum houses one of the world’s largest collections of ancient artifacts from the Middle East, while the Altes Museum features a collection of ancient Greek, Roman, and Egyptian art. Other museums on Museum Island include the Neues Museum, the Bode Museum, and the Alte Nationalgalerie.

Checkpoint Charlie

Checkpoint Charlie was one of the most famous border crossings during the Cold War, when it separated East and West Berlin. Today, it is a popular tourist attraction and houses a museum dedicated to the history of the Cold War.

The East Side Gallery

The East Side Gallery is a stretch of the Berlin Wall that has been turned into an open-air art gallery. The gallery features over 100 murals by artists from around the world, including some famous works such as ‘My God, Help Me to Survive This Deadly Love’ by Dmitri Vrubel.

The Reichstag Building

The Reichstag building is one of Berlin’s most iconic landmarks and is home to the German Parliament. The building dates back to 1894 and was severely damaged following World War II. In 1999, it was renovated and reopened as a modern parliamentary center. Visitors can take a tour of the building or take in the incredible views from its glass dome.

Gendarmenmarkt

Gendarmenmarkt is one of Berlin’s most beautiful squares and is home to two cathedrals – Konzerthaus Berlin and Französischer Dom – as well as Schinkel’s Concert Hall. The square is surrounded by restaurants and cafes, making it a popular spot for locals and tourists alike.

Berlin Zoo

The Berlin Zoo is one of Europe’s largest zoos and is home to over 19,000 animals from all over the world. The zoo also features an aquarium, a rainforest house, and a petting zoo, making it a great place to visit with kids.

Popular Tours

In addition to exploring Berlin on your own, there are several popular tours that are available to visitors. Here are two popular tours that you might want to consider booking during your trip:

Berlin Wall Bike Tour

The Berlin Wall Bike Tour is a great way to explore both sides of the city and learn about its history. This four-hour tour takes you to some of Berlin’s most iconic sites along the wall, including Checkpoint Charlie, East Side Gallery, Potsdamer Platz, Brandenburg Gate, and more. You’ll learn about the history of the wall and its impact on Germany’s reunification as you ride through some of its most famous sites. You’ll also get to enjoy some stunning views along your ride. Book this tour here.

Berlin Food Tour

The Berlin Food Tour takes you on a journey through some of Berlin’s most interesting neighborhoods to sample some local delicacies. You’ll visit traditional German restaurants for beer tastings and sample local specialties like currywurst and schnitzel. You’ll also learn about German culture as you explore neighborhoods like Kreuzberg and Neukölln. Book this tour here.

Conclusion

Berlin is an exciting city with plenty to offer visitors, from iconic landmarks to world-class museums and galleries, as well as an exciting nightlife. There are so many things to do in Berlin that it can be difficult to narrow down your options – but with this guide to the best things about Berlin, you’ll be sure to make the most of your trip! And if you’re looking for something different to do in Berlin, consider booking one of the popular tours mentioned above for an unforgettable experience.