Berlin is the capital and largest city of Germany, with a population of about 3.7 million people.

The city is located in the northeastern part of the country, on the banks of the Spree and Havel rivers. Berlin has a rich and turbulent history, having been the center of many political and cultural movements, such as the Enlightenment, Neoclassicism, liberal revolution, Nazism, communism and democracy.

Berlin is also known for its diverse and vibrant culture, its iconic landmarks, such as the Brandenburg Gate and the Berlin Wall, and its modern and cosmopolitan lifestyle. Berlin is a city that offers something for everyone, whether it is art, music, architecture, nature or nightlife!

1. Brandenburg Gate

The Brandenburger Tor is one of Germany’s most visited landmarks and an icon of the city of Berlin. During its more than 300-year history, it has played many different roles. 

It has been a symbol for peace, war, victory, terror and war all over (that time the cold one) and since 1989 it stands for the reunification of Germany.

It was here that Ronald Reagan gave his famous speech:  “Mr. Gorbachev, open this gate. Mr. Gorbachev, tear down this wall”.

Tip: Go to Brandenburg by night! There will be less people and the chance to get a pic in front of the illuminated Brandenburger Tor with no one else on it than you is amazing!

2. TV Tower

The Fernsehturm was built in the late 1960ies in what used to be East Berlin. 

With its 368 meters it’s the tallest structure in Germany. From the observation deck you have a breathtaking view over Berlin, at clear visibility up to 42 kilometers. Maybe you’ve been told that the Fernsehturm is called “Telespargel” or maybe you’ve heard some other strange nicknames.

Fun Fact: Everybody just calls it “Fernsehturm”, although different political regimes and media have tried to assign one or the other nickname.

3. Vist the Museums

There are about 200 museums in Berlin. You will find some of the most important ones all in one spot at the “Museumsinsel”, the Museum Island in the Spree river and a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

The museums there mostly display important historical artifacts from antiquity such as the famous Ishtar gate of ancient Babylon or the bust of Egyptian queen Nefertiti. 

In Berlin’s Museum of Natural History you will see the world’s largest mounted dinosaur skeleton. Another very famous museum is the Jewish Museum with its spectacular building designed by Daniel Libeskind.

4. Eat a Currywurst

If there is anything you really need to eat in Berlin – it’s a Currywurst. A hot sausage cut in slices with ketchup and curry powder. Invented in 1949 by Herta Heuwer in Berlin, it’s Germany’s most popular fast food. So where will you find the best one?

Well, I think Konnopke’s in Prenzlauer Berg is the best but just eat your way through Berlin and you will find your favorite!

5. Checkpoint Charlie

Having been the best known border crossing point between East and West Berlin along the Berlin Wall, this checkpoint is a symbol of the Cold War. Many GDR citizens left East Berlin through this loophole.

After the erection of the Berlin Wall in 1961 this was the place where the famous standoff between US and Soviet tanks happened. Right besides in the “Mauermuseum (Haus am Checkpoint Charlie)” you can see some of the most spectacular escape vehicles such as the one-man submarine and some other exhibits that document the time during the division.

6. Boat Trip!

Believe it or not: Berlin has more bridges than Venice. And there’s not only the Spree river, there are many more like the Havel or the Panke. 

And there are about 70 lakes in and around Berlin. So take a boat trip, go for a swim or drink a fancy cocktail in one of the many beach bars.

7. Zoological Garden

It’s Germany’s oldest zoo and with its 16,000 animals including about 1,500 various species it’s one of the biggest zoos in the world. 

It was rebuilt after World War II when it was completely destroyed with only 91 surviving animals. Polar bear Knut was the most famous animal in here – but sadly he died in March 2011!

8. Reichstag building (Parliament)

The Reichstag was built in the late 19th century to house the German parliament. In 1999, after a turbulent history during World War II and the Cold War, it became once again the meeting place for the German government.

At the top of the building there’s a huge glass dome from where you can watch the German politicians at work. And it also provides an amazing view over Berlin!

9. East Side Gallery

After the fall of the Berlin Wall many famous artists immortalized themselves and the wall itself through a piece of art never seen before. The East Side Gallery is now the world’s longest open air gallery.

Over 100 paintings such as the famous kiss of Erich Honecker and Leonid Brezhnev can be seen here on a more than one kilometer long, still intact original section of the Berlin Wall.

10. Kurfürstendamm

Berliners just call it “Ku’damm” and on this avenue, you can shop till you drop. If you need anything, you will find it here. And if not here just go around the corner to the KaDeWe (Kaufhaus des Westens).

It’s Europe’s biggest mall with a gourmet section as large as 7,000 square meters. At Ku’damm you can also see the “Gedächtniskirche” (Memorial Church), the ruins of which still remain ever since World War II.