Berlin pocket guide.
Rising from the ashes of the Second World War, the people of Berlin began to re-build, only to be stunted by the brittle tensions of the incurring Cold War. Once a city divided, modern day Berlin has flourished and rejuvenated in an unparalleled manner since the collapse of the Wall.
Propelled by a fervent desire to embrace their re-discovered freedom, Berliners unified their city through a whirlwind cultural and social revolution.
Acclaimed in Europe for its nightlife, Berlin is also famous for cutting-edge sensibilities and inclusive values. A hub for the LGBT community, Berlin moved far past its darkest chapters to become one of Europe's most progressive cities.
Younger generations have carved out trendy hipster neighbourhoods where savvy club-owners have transformed industrial buildings into some of the world's best nightclubs.
🏛 Sights, Culture + Experiences.
The city of Berlin has played a pivotal role in modern European history, serving as the epicentre of both World Wars. Although the city has become re-invigorated in recent years, relics of the turmoils that once rocked the city remain, commemorating the past.
Amongst the most prominent sights in Berlin, the East Side Gallery (📷) occupies deteriorating sections of the Berlin Wall. Since its collapse, the politically charged art strewn across this section of the wall has become an enduring symbol of free-speech and the strength of Berliners who suffered the segregation of the city during the Cold War.
Across the city, the Berlin Wall Memorial displays a stark and sombre showcase of the anguish caused by the division. Memorials to those who have died attempting to cross are documented in detail at the museum.
The imposing elegance of the Brandenburg Gate (📷) has earned itself reputation as arguably the defining symbol of modern-day Berlin. Whilst you can admire its intricate detail during the day-time, make sure to take a stroll here in the evening to see the Gate at its most radiant.
Located right down the road is the re-vitalised Reichstag Building (📷). Having been left in ruin in the wake of World War II, it was not fully resorted until 1999. The signature glass dome fixed on its roof adds a futuristic twist to the faithfully restored architecture of the main building.
Official guided tours of the Reichstag and its dome are an absolute must for any first-timers visiting Berlin. Admission is free, however, slots quickly fill up during peak season, so make sure that you register your details in advance before you intend to visit.
In the immediate vicinity, the Memorial to the Murdered Jews of Europe (📷) provides a bold memorial to the Jewish victims of the Holocaust. The sprawling site is composed of 2,711 concrete slabs arranged in a way that is intended to disconcert and confuse those who wander through the labyrinth of blocks – engraved with the names of around 3 million who lost their lives.
🍻 Delve into the vibrant urban nightlife.
The after-hours scene in Berlin is held in the highest regard by just about all party-goers. The city runs the gauntlet from quirky hipster bars and expansive open-air venues to seedy techno clubs housed in dishevelled industrial buildings.
The legendary Tresor nightclub has been a haven for fans of techno and house music since the dawn of the 1990s. Although the club undergone a re-location in 2007, the legacy of this great nightclub has been carried along with it, continuing to draw in large crowds to the renovated power plant that serves as its current venue.
Founded by fellow students of techno, rugged Berghain has accelerated past any competition to establish itself as the modern day HQ of techno. Given their iconic status, the clubs can pick and choose their clientele as they see fit. Don't show up with a sense of entitlement, as the door-staff will snuff out your hopes of entry without batting an eye.
During the summer months, Berliners and tourists alike revel in the opportunity to enjoy the mild weather that can be present during this time. Countless bars across the city cater to al-fresco drinking, offering an excellent selection of beer gardens and fully-fledged outdoor venues.
Perhaps unparalleled in its unbridled panoramic view, Klunkerkranich (📷) boasts an incredible rooftop that will be – understandably – packed during your visit here. Make sure you come at a reasonable time during the day to secure a vantage point for an incredible sunset.
Other outdoor venues that are open for business during the summer months are scattered across the city – each offering their own charms. Located on the banks of the Spree river, the off-kilter beer garden of Birgit & Bier is a great place to chill-out on balmy summer nights.
Directly adjacent is the staple venue of Badeschiff, featuring a large swimming pool docked on the river and frequent open-air concerts and movie nights. For a slight Caribbean themed twist, look no further than YAAM, a wonderful bar with spacious outdoor facilities, and an on-site 'beach'.
Naturally, any visit to Berlin should be complete with sampling the excellent beer brewed locally and throughout Germany. As fond as foreigners may be of German beer, Germans themselves love it even more, so there are no issues finding it in most bars that you will visit.
One thing that the city has gained an affinity for is the fine art of cocktail design. Trendy cocktail bars have steadily appeared all over the city to satisfy the growing demand for innovative alcoholic concoctions.
Adopting its name from the legendary album from French maverick Serge Gainsbourg, the slick interior of Melody Nelson is the perfect spot to unwind. Good vibes are constantly flowing down at 8mm, a self-described 'post-punk' spot music enthusiasts will surely love.
An unsuspecting doorway in the Mitte neighbourhood conceals an glistening jewel beneath the surface. This jewel takes the form of the opulent Dean Bar, which has gained a reputation as one of the most sought-after speakeasy bars in the city. Ring the doorbell at ground level and cross your fingers that the door staff are willing to escort you down to the bar.
Offering top-notch views of the city, the Monkey Bar has endured to become one of the most popular bars in the city. The copious amount of comfy seating and chic interior makes it incredibly easy to kick back and lounge here for a full afternoon or evening. As a result of its popularity, make sure that you arrive somewhat early in the day if you intend to get a table for your stay so that you can — thanks to its panoramic views — enjoy a beautiful sunset with drink in hand.
🌭 Eat well without breaking the bank.
Known for availability of great food at a very agreeable price, Berlin is the most affordable capital city in Western Europe. The local favourite snack is Bratwurst sausage, often enjoyed with fries or a curried-tomato sauce in its 'currywurst' style.
Pretty much anywhere in the centre of Berlin, you will not be far from a bratwurst vendor (📷) cooking up quick, convenient and cheap dishes to eat on-the-go.
A testament to the city embracing its many cultures, some of the best food in Berlin encompasses authentic cuisine from across the world. Vietnamese spot Madami entices with great value aromatic dishes. Noodle-centric Yumcha Heroes tosses up affordable treats from its Chinese inspired menu.
Countless burger joints have been asserting themselves as hubs for hungry travellers, offering a belly-full of food without taking the weight out of your wallet. Dine-in at Berlinburger International or Windburger without straining your budget.
💤 Accommodation.
Whether you are looking for a social atmosphere or a private getaway, Berlin is surprisingly affordable in terms of its accommodation when compared to other European cities of its size and popularity. You can snag a room in an very classy upmarket hotel here for less than £100 per night, and can obtain a bed in a hostel dorm for under £20 per night.
Regardless of your travel style, the affordability of accommodation here leaves you bountiful options for your budget. Search on Skyscanner, Hostelworld or Airbnb and see what your heart desires.
💰 Dorms from €15.00 per night.
Classy, sleek vibes from this popular hostel in Mitte, following the same quality of other Generator Hostels across Europe.
💰 Dorms from €18.00 per night.
Laid back hotel with lovely interior and rooms, offering an organic and friendly experience.
💰 Rooms from €80.00 per night.
Really slick futuristic design hotel that offers a unique living experience in Berlin. Affordable for a hotel of its quality, and aesthetically interesting to boot.
💰 Rooms from €78.00 per night.
Rounding off.
Hopefully this guide has helped to give an idea of what you can expect from a visit to Berlin. Steadily advancing up the chain of essential destinations for the young and lively and it shows no signs of slowing down any time soon. It is almost a guarantee at this point that you will have a great time.
The chequered past of the city is long behind it, but the memory of tumultuous times are still fresh in our communal memories. Take some time to explore the historic sights of this great city, to gain a deeper understanding of how headstrong and innovative the people here are, and have been for centuries.
