The dynamic capital of Germany, Berlin, is home to nearly three and a half million people. Having spent a week there, I can tell you personally that this city is an absolute blast. Get a history lesson by day, and wash it all away by partying at one of the cities many electric bars or clubs until the sun rises.
While Berlin was badly destroyed during the Second World War, and again damaged by the Cold War, the people of Berlin have shown remarkable resilience and have rebounded to create a lively and busting international metropolis. If you only have a few days to visit, there are plenty of things you can see. Find yourself an inexpensive, off the wall apartment in Berlin as your base of operations, and if you manage your time well, you’ll have no trouble seeing a big chunk of the city.
Holocaust Memorial
I recommend seeing this before you party or pull any shenanigans. Utterly sobering, this memorial is a maze of concrete slabs.
The best way to truly understand the emotions this place exudes is to simply walk through it and let your mind wander. There is no entrance fee.
Berlin Wall
To the east of the city center remains a section of the Berlin Wall. Going there to see this important historical symbol is an absolute must.
I thought about climbing over the damn thing but decided it was too insensitive.
Olympic Stadium
This is fascist architecture at its finest. But I still think it’s quite graceful.
The smooth oval structure carries an understated aesthetic quality. I snapped several photos of this stadium.
Pergamon-Museum
Berlin has tons of museums. You could spend weeks here just seeing them. However, since your time is limited, I recommend the Pergamon-Museum. This awesome archaeological museum showcases a large collection of ancient works. Check out ancient Greek, Islamic, and Middle Eastern findings. I spent a whole afternoon here so be sure you set aside enough time.
If you love museums and want to spend more of your time on Museum Island, consider getting a three day museum pass. It’s only 24 euros and you can get into all the museums.
Brandenburg Gate
This is an iconic landmark and is the gateway to Berlin. This classic arch is a must for a photo. You also have to walk through it.
I think it’s bad luck if you don’t do it while in Berlin.
Topography of Terror
Strikingly fascinating but all the while extremely frightening, the Topography of Terror is where you learn about the clandestine operations of the Nazi Secret State Police Office.
Here’s a word of advice: have a pint or two before you enter. It enhances the experience.
Berliner Dom
This is Berlin’s most stunning church, and is quite an expression of imperial power. Feel free to go in for a gander.
Clubs… so… many… clubs
Once night falls, the werewolves of the evening come out. Berlin, in my opinion, is the best scene in Europe to get blasted. Try club hopping. Watergate is a great venue that plays quality electronic music until the early morning. Magdalena has a wider range of music and a shockingly intoxicated crowd. 40 Seconds brings out all the stops when it comes to fashion and style. There’s also Arena Club for special events, which is a ton of fun.
Just go out – you may not remember where you ended up exactly, but you’ll have had the time of your life.
(Photos by Spreng Ben, Stefano Corso, Context Travel, Thomas Owens, Ronaldo Miranda, Gavin Bloys, Johnathan Lobel, and Olivier Bruchez)
