Sightseeing and things to do in Berlin
No bout of sightseeing in Berlin is complete without a trip to the world-famous Brandenburg Gate, an iconic symbol of the lasting splendour of Germany, along with a visit to the Reichstag, the current seat of the German parliament.
For some completely different things to do in Berlin, the city's famous zoo is one of the biggest and most diverse in the world and is perhaps most famous as the home of Knut, the first polar bear to be hand-raised and survive into adulthood at the zoo in three decades.
Introduction to Berlin
Any time spent on Berlin tours will leave the visitor in no doubt that in the two decades since the wall fell, many years worth of stifled passion and creativity has since been let loose all across the city.
Young party-goers will find no shortage of revelry with which to fill their evenings (and early hours of the morning), with everything from famous German techno music parties to LGB-oriented venues.
Berliners are also famously sports-mad, with top Bundesliga side Hertha Berlin drawing regular huge crowds to their home games at the Olympiastadion.
The city also held the Olympic Games in 1936 and the final of the 2006 Football World Cup, which saw Italy record a narrow victory over France on penalties.
This vibrant, modern and welcoming city is home to as great a diversity of things to do and see as any European capital city.
The Brandenburg Gate
Probably Berlin’s most iconic monument the Brandenburg Gate has been a backdrop during some of the most turbulent periods of Berlin’s history. Having suffered minor damage during World War II the governments of East and West Germany worked together on restoration work and thus the Brandenburg Gate has come to symbolise peace and a unified Germany.
The Remains of the Berlin Wall
Very little remains of what was, at one time, one of the world’s most infamous structures. The remnants that are scattered around the city provide a poignant reminder of the division of Germany and the plight of those who tried to cross the wall.
Checkpoint Charlie
The point at which East and West Berlin’s meet, Checkpoint Charlie has come to be a symbol of the Cold War and a divided Germany. The actual Checkpoint Charlie was torn down due to its painful memories however replicas and memorials now exist to satisfy tourists interest in this intriguing landmark.
The DDR Museum
The DDR museum aims to transform you to some of the fascinating eras of Berlin’s history. This fully interactive museums re-create not just the sights but the smells and sounds of the often turbulent city of Berlin.
Wintergarten Variety Theatre
Berlin is probably as well known for its theatre as it is for its history. The Wintergarten Variety Theatre, where world class entertainers such as acrobats and magicians present a breathtaking array of performances in a wonderful setting.
Museum Island
Museum Island is the name given to the north part of the Spreeinsel – an island in the middle of the River Spree. It is so called at here you will find many of Berlin’s finest museums including the National Gallery and the Old Museum and New Museum. Even without entering any of the museums the beautiful buildings which lead on to grand courtyards make it a wonderful place to spend an afternoon.
Potsdamer Place
Potsdamer Place has always been a focal point for Berlin. Marking the start of the old road to Potsdam it started as a trading post. Having been reduced to rubble during World War II it has been rebuilt to be the modern heart of Berlin. A range of striking metal and glass buildings including the famous Sony centre house some of Berlin’s most popular bars, restaurants and clubs.
Berlin Television Tower
Probably the first Berlin landmark you will lay eyes on; the Berlin Television Tower stands at 386metres and dominated the Berlin Skyline. Take the super-fast lift to the viewing platform for wonderful views of Berlin or enjoy a meal in the revolving restaurant.
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