When it comes to European capitals, most people think of Paris, London, and Rome as the ultimate destination. Berlin, the German capital, is probably not the first one on the wish list. It is indeed utterly different.
We have collected 10 sights and activities that make this city just as attractive as its competitors. Often referred to as ‘organized chaos,’ Berlin has a unique vibe and makes you feel like you belong there even after a few hours.
It has much to offer, from green parks and lakes, fascinating historical sights to bohemian nightlife scenes. The Berlin wall separated West from East for nearly thirty years. Therefore, the difference between the two parts is still noticeable, especially in the architecture.
The city has two of everything: opera house, main train stations, TV tower, and even zoo. You do not have to worry about the language barriers; English is the most common language used in the city.
1. Explore Berlin by bike
via www.wearecity.de
Rent a bike, hop on and pedal around the city. This is the best way to see how different each district is. And the good news is that there are no hills; it will be a comfortable ride. Pack some sandwiches and have your lunch in a park or stop by a ‘Biergarten’ along the way when you get tired.
2. Visit the Museum Island
There are five museums on this little island on the river Spree. All of them are worth visiting, and with a combined ticket, you can easily spend a whole day wandering around the ancient Egyptian treasures and the German heritage.
3. Check-out the nightlife in Kreuzberg
via guestofaguest.com
Berlin turns into one huge open-air club during the night. The main party area is Kreuzberg, where you can find the coolest bars and clubs. Here it is really true that the party never stops. Some of them start on Friday evening and finish Sunday evening.
4. Shop at the flea market
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If you want to buy the coolest retro souvenir or search for vintage clothes, do not miss it out. There are several markets around the town, but the largest and best of all is Mauerpark. On Sundays, there is even karaoke if you are up for fun.
5. Grab a ‘Currywurst’
via www.flickr.com
Germany is famous for its sausages or ‘wurst’ in German. It is definitely not a typical healthy dish with Pommes on the side, but it is a must-try.
6. Visit the lakes and have a boat ride
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Berlin is the greenest capital in Europe and has many wonderful lakes. You can jump on the public transport in the city center, travel for twenty minutes and you will find yourself in pristine beauty. Put your bikinis on and swim during the summer months.
7. Check out the galleries in Mitte
via www..mypremiumeurope.com
The former East Berlin city center, Mitte, has a great variety of contemporary art galleries. Have a walk around August Strasse (street) and its neighborhood and stop by one of the many lovely cafes in the area.
8. Shopping on Ku’damm
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Have a stroll on the charming avenue of the former West Berlin, Kurfürstendamm or Ku’damm as the locals call it. All the leading brands of the world are represented here.
9. Visit the East Side Gallery
via www.apartum.com
This is the largest open-air gallery in Europe. The 1.5km long remaining part of the Berliner wall decorated with street art has a message related to the war, freedom, and politics.
10. Have a picnic at Tempelhof Airport
Where else on the world do you have the chance to lay on the lawn of the airport or try kite land-boarding on the airstrip? This is also Berlin. Free, crazy, and different. Don’t worry; there won’t be any airplanes as the airport is not operating since 2008.
