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Guide To Berlin

Few capital cities can have the diversity of Berlin. One the one hand, it’s seen as a cold, dour playground for bitter artists and writers. One the other, it is the street festival capital of Europe. While it’s true that there is a certain ambience that controls the city during the colder months, this solemn beauty morphs into a captivating joie de vivre in the summer, which is packed full of different arts festivals.

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When To Go

The tourist season erupts in May and lasts until September, but if you’re after the same atmospheric vibes David Bowie was in the 1970’s (dark days, snow and isolation), then January to March will suit just fine. Christmas-time is also becoming increasingly popular with travellers due to the lively spirit and prettiness of the city.

Top 5 Places To Stay

  • 1. Hotel Haus Konstanz

    This villa is set in the centre of Berlin, 800m from the famous Kurfurstendamm, and 2.5km from the Ka Da We department store. The 30 guestrooms, over three floors, have light, modern décor. Amenities include satellite television and direct-dial phones.

  • 2. Park Plaza Wallstreet Berlin

    Roughly two-kilometres from the Reichstag, this modern hotel is inspired by the New York Stock Exchange and designed by architect Johanne Nalbach. All guestrooms include air conditioning, TV, desks, laptop safes and makeup mirrors. The hotel’s in-house cinema is specifically designed to host premiers and major events, so the odd celeb may be seen stocking up on popcorn too…

  • 3. Swissotel Berlin

    This post-modern hotel is right on Berlin's premier shopping strip, the Ku'damm. The 316 guestrooms feature art by Markus Lüpertz, internet access, espresso machines and black-marble bathrooms. Amenities include well-equipped computer rooms and a view restaurant with cutting-edge cuisine.

  • 4. The Ritz-Carlton

    The Ritz is situated in Berlin's city centre, on the prestigious Potsdamer Platz, and close to the government district, shopping areas, restaurants, attractions, nightlife, and public transportation. Reflecting Berlin's rich history and grandeur, it is reminiscent of the Art Deco buildings of 1920s New York and Chicago.

  • 5. Comfort Hotel Weissensee

    This family-run hotel is located in northeast Berlin, close to Weissensee park and ten minutes drive from the city. Rooms are spacious and furnished in a modern style and guests can enjoy the on-site restaurant and beer garden.

Top 5 Things To Do On Your Visit

  • 1. Reichstag

    The 19th century home of the German Parliament, the Reichstag was remodelled in 1999 and stands majestically over the city. From its peak you can just about make out where the Berlin Wall once stood.

  • 2. Weinerei

    There are several of these bars around town, and the basic idea is that you pay €1 for a glass, then fill it up with whichever wines you like (as many times as you like) before deciding how much you should pay at the end of the evening.

  • 3. Haus am Checkpoint Charlie

    Though the Wall is barely non-existent in terms of bricks and mortar these days, its vivid, sad and fascinating history is still tenderly portrayed throughout the whole city. This museum tells the story of those who lost their lives trying to cross the divide.

  • 4. Brandenberg Gate

    Nowhere shows off the former decadence of Eastern Berlin better than this thoroughfare. The nearby Guggenheim museum brings it into the 21st century with some style.

  • 5. Unsicht-Bar

    Eating your food in complete darkness may sound slightly mad, or daunting, but it is a genuinely fun (not to mention unique) pursuit. Unsicht-Bar allows you to concentrate on taste rather than looks, in all it’s pitch black beauty.

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