Inspiring Germany
One capital – two teams
Visiting all of the important sights in Berlin can take many days. Take in a unique mix of the comforts and world culture of old Berlin, the modern architecture and ample green space.
Both of the great football clubs of Berlin have their supporters: Hertha BSC and Union Berlin, west and east, the "Old Lady" and the Working Men's Club – friends turned rivals. Union has more members, but Hertha holds its home matches in a bigger venue: the Olympiastadion. The clubs also have distinct music choices: at Hertha matches, "Nur nach Hause" by pop singer Frank Zander resounds; but at Union games, "Eisern Union" by rockstar Nina Hagen rings out. But only one can call itself godmother to a polar bear at the Berlin Zoo – whose name, of course, is Hertha.
By the Brandenburg Gate
A city tour would be incomplete without a visit to the Brandenburg Gate, a city landmark symbolising unity in Germany. This is the heart of the city: 100 metres away is the Reichstag building, the seat of parliament, with its vast, walkable glass ceiling.
The remnants of a divided city are still visible at the Berlin Wall Memorial. The world-renowned Museum Island holds treasures from the ancient and modern ages in its various museums. Nearby is the new Humboldt Forum, in the reconstructed Berlin Palace, which hosts high-class exhibitions and cultural events.
Tree-lined boulevards and trendy spots
Continue your culture crawl in the Baroque-style Charlottenburg Palace, with its art collections and porcelain room. Its stately gardens promise relaxation.
For all your fashion needs, visit Kurfürstendamm, a popular shopping strip, or the Freidrichstrasse. You'll find many lively bars and restaurants, as well as cute little shops, in LGBTQ-friendly Schöneberg, in Prenzlauer Berg and Friedrichshain. Passionate party-goers can dance the night away in the club hotspots.
Cuisines of the world
When it comes to food, Berlin is a global city, where old Berlin bars and Michelin restaurants mingle. Try specialties from around the world at one of the historic indoor markets or from a street vendor – no one goes hungry here. Want to eat like a local? Berlin is proud to call itself the currywurst capital. "Bulletten" (Berlin-style hamburgers) are standard fare, paired with a "Berliner Weisse mit Schuss," an aromatic shot in green or red, which you can find at one of the many beer gardens.
The legacy of Frederick the Great
After the hubbub of the city centre, spend a few peaceful moments in one of the many parks. For example, at the Tempelhof Field, the site of the old city airport. Leisurely make your way to the city limits of Potsdam. The capital of Brandenburg boasts the Sanssouci Palace, once the home of Frederick the Great and a highlight of Baroque architecture. For those interested in the Impressionist masters, the Museum Barberini is a must-see.