Berlin at a glance
Berlin is Germany’s largest city, brimming with a unique, creative and youthful vibe that makes it an ideal destination for a fun-packed short break. Though Berlin’s past is consciously ever present, the city continues to prove its vibrancy. Eight times the size of Paris, there is a never ceasing mix of things to do and see. Home to recognised landmarks, creative industries and a wealth of museums, galleries and performing art – Berlin is truly larger than life.
The notorious Cold War era found the East and West sections of Berlin divided. Though the wall came down in 1989, much of the city today bears testimony to the history of East and West Berlin, with remnants of the Berlin wall still visible, along with landmarks turned tourist destinations, such as Checkpoint Charlie and the Brandenburg Gate.
Berlin is a sumptuous cultural feast full of nostalgia and free spirited zeal. An engaging city, it’s hard to resist Berlin’s buzz and eclectic appeal. With a profusion of sights and sounds to suit every taste, Berlin continues to prove itself to be a fantastic short break destination.
Berlin’s nightlife is one of the most diverse and progressive in Europe, but if dancing till dawn isn’t for you, there are still plenty of cultural hot spots to visit as the city comes alive at night with a vast array of concerts, chic dining experiences and a plethora of cafés and bars to enjoy.
Perfect if you’re looking for:
- Historic attractions
- Art and culture
- Vibrant nightlife
Getting around
Berlin is extensive with sites spread throughout different quarters of the city. Luckily Berlin’s transportation system is easy to use and efficient with buses, trams, the U-Bahn (underground) and the S-Bahn (local trains) available to take you wherever you need to go.
Berlin is divided into three zones – A, B and C. Visitors will find most sites are located within zones A and B. Transportation tickets are valid for all public transport systems, making it easy to jump from one transport link to another.
Dining in Berlin
Berlin’s cultural vibrancy makes for an exciting and varied dining experience easily suited to please every budget and taste.
While traditional German cuisine such as bratwurst and pork knuckles can easily be found, a variety of dishes from around the world, including Thailand, France and Japan, are also becoming popular in the city.
Must-try local dishes:
- Currywurst – a smoked and boiled sausage with a thick curry flavoured ketchup.
- Doner kebab – the fast food version of this Middle-Eastern flatbread and grilled meat staple was invented in Berlin.
- Leber Berliner Art – Berlin style calf liver served with fried apple slices and onion.
Shopping in Berlin
Berlin is filled with endless shopping possibilities, there’s plenty of international designer brands, unique finds and bargains. The largest department store, and one of the top places to visit is the KaDeWe where shops span a total of six floors, here you will find second-hand vintage pieces and outlet stores. Also, there are shops located on the Kurfurstendamm and malls at the Potsdamer Platz, and the individual boutiques are set in Mitte.
Osprey Holidays top tips
Find time for the Jewish memorial and the Reichstag and we’d highly recommend the tourist bus for a little taste of everything.
Get your tailor-made city break itinerary
Osprey Holidays can create a fabulous short break to Berlin designed completely around your needs. We can arrange whatever you need, including:
- All travel and transfers on days of your choice
- Accommodation from our handpicked range of Berlin hotels, to suit your budget and requirements
Our award-winning team can provide expert advice and recommendations, from general questions to tiny details. Contact us now for your tailor-made itinerary.
- Important information
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Population 3,500,000 Languages German Currency Euro Visa Information No visa required for UK citizens - Average temperatures
(monthly highs °C)
- Interesting facts
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Explore the streets leading off the bustling Kurfurstendamm, for a huge variety of shops and good bargains.
- Featured accommodation
- Distance from airports
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Tegel 8km Schönefeld 18km
- Railway stations
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Hauptbahnhof