If there’s one versatile city in Europe, it’s Berlin. There are quite a few cities I’ve been to several times, but Berlin still holds a lot of hidden secrets for me after 5 times. I don’t think you can really fathom that city unless you live there for a longer period of time. But that’s exactly what makes it so interesting! There are multiple reasons for a Berlin citytrip and there’s something for everyone.

The heavy history of Berlin

An obvious reason for a Berlin citytrip is, of course, for the history that took place in the city and the country. Besides the whole German history of World War II, Berlin also had to deal with the division of East and West by the well-known Berlin Wall.

World War II, of course, left traces across the continent, and even in other parts of the world the effects are still visible. And, of course, several concentration camps can still be found, whose sole purpose now is to teach us about that terrible history. All to hopefully prevent anything like that from happening ever again. 

Still, Berlin is a good place to start if you want to immerse yourself in the war history. For example, visit the “Topography of the Terror” museum located in the old Gestapo and SS headquarters. Here you can see in detail how they prepared certain missions and how they operated. Or visit the bunker museum, for an insight into life in such a bunker during an active war. Or visit the Anne Frank museum or the Holocaust memorial. Outside Berlin, you will find much more, including bunkers and some concentration camps. This is just a sample of everything about it.

Furthermore, on Bernauer strasse you will find a monument with personal stories. The wall here has been replaced by metal poles and next to it you’ll find information posts with personal stories about the people who lived here, lost their homes or tried to flee via one of the escape tunnels. Intense stories about who did and did not make it. At the documentation centre at the end of the memorial, you will find even more stories. Very impressive and educational, but of course also very tough and emotional.

Berlin, the city for alternative vibes and art

Besides the artworks on the bits of remaining wall, Berlin is a walhalla for artsy types anyway. So if you want a much more light-hearted trip or just relax after an intense day full of history, there’s plenty to see and do in terms of art and entertainment.

Berlin is known for its vibrant street art and graffiti. Almost every street corner, abandoned wall and building seems to serve as a canvas for talented street artists.

In districts like Kreuzberg and Friedrichshain, you’ll find a range of alternative art galleries, studios, and artist collectives. These places provide a platform for experimental and alternative art forms that often bring out new creativity and frequently have political overtones.

After sunset, Berlin becomes a playground for night owls and creatives. Numerous alternative clubs and events, such as in the RAW-Gelände and Berlin’s techno scene, offer the opportunity to escape the hustle and bustle of the city for a while. This, of course, in addition to the usual nightlife, such as a wide selection of concert halls and discotheques.

Berlin as food walhalla

Although German cuisine may not be very varied, with mostly meat and potatoes, there really is no shortage of choice when it comes to restaurants in Berlin. From Michelin restaurants to food trucks all over the city, you’ll find just about everything you could possibly be looking for here. Moreover, Berlin is known as one of the most vegan-friendly cities in the world. Despite its meat heavy German cuisine.

That vast choice of restaurants goes hand in hand with the city’s artsy atmosphere. With the cosiest hip spots, featuring murals, rooftops filled with plants and coffee shops filled with a collection of second-hand furniture for a wonderfully homely atmosphere.

Not surprisingly, Berlin was hit hard during the war. Although some historical architecture did remain standing or was restored, it is a fairly modern city. With that, the atmosphere is mainly found in the art and cosy restaurants you find throughout the city.