Berlin’s place in contemporary world history, combined with it’s reputation as an iconic club capital and the wide availability of schnitzel makes this a destination we have always wanted to visit.
As Londoners we enjoy getting to know a capital city, as a melting pot of a country’s different peoples that gives insight into its culture as a whole. Although unique and different to our own capital, Berlin felt familiar as a sprawling, urban metropolis, made up of distinct localities that are connected by an organised criss-cross of pubic transport. As a major international city, Berlin welcomes everyone yet retains a distinct identity much like London.
Flattened at the end of World War II Berlin is now characterised by modern purposeful architecture and wide practical roads, its layered past less apparent than in other European cities. History however is everywhere, even in the simple act of roaming around freely, something that just over 30 years ago was not possible.
Some historic monuments survive that reflect Germany’s grand imperial past and its strategic relationship with surrounding sovereign powers. Whilst newer monuments mark and acknowledge the horrific history of the 20th century and are a solemn tribute to the millions murdered by the Nazi’s.
Contemporary Berlin is a place to reflect and learn about the past as well as embrace its vibrant present where diversity and inclusivity are clearly championed. With a few days of annual leave, when we spotted affordable return flights, we knew our time had come to absorb this multifaceted city and dance the night away.
Trip Spec (per person)
Flights: £34 (only a small bag as luggage)
Time: Wednesday – Saturday morning
Budget: £445
Sleeping
Plus Berlin: This may be a hostel but situated in a central location, with great facilities and a variety of room options it is a very affordable place to make your base in Berlin. We had a superior private twin room with an ensuite £25 pp/per night. Warschauer Pl. 6, 10245 Berlin
Eating
Sheers Schnitzel: A fast food schnitzel joint with an exhaustive list of different side options and toppings it is a schnitzel shack not to be missed. Warschauer Pl. 18, 10245 Berlin
Engleberg: A relaxed and airy, wholesome brunch spot dotted with indoor plants. A wide variety of brunch options made from high quality produce, including a range of German meats and cheeses. Oderberger Str. 21, 10435 Berlin
Lokal: This sleek Berlin favourite is simple and unpretentious, the everchanging seasonal menu keeps it buzzing with locals and we were lucky to get a table. Our meal was fantastic. Linienstraße 160, 10115 Berlin
Tucker Brunch Bar: Trendy all day breakfast spot that blasts out techno beats whilst über cool waiters serve miso spiced egg benedict’s and limitless vegan alternatives. Wühlischstraße 1, 10245 Berlin
Zur letzten Instanz: The oldest restaurant in Berlin, serving traditional classics in a restaurant far from stuffy. Delicious and highly recommended. Waisenstraße 14-16, 10179 Berlin
Maroush: The best falafel wrap we have ever had. Freshly fried falafels, covered in tahini sauce with a full range of salad and pickles in perfect flat bread. Adalbertstraße 93, 10999 Berlin
Favourite Bars
The Pharmacy Bar: Smart Victoriana cocktail bar with low lighting. An experience mixologist concocts drinks from an extensive range of spirits, including home-made infusions. Mariannenpl. 6, 10997 Berlin
Zum Goldenen Hahn: Grotty punk bar covered in stickers with fantastic vibes. Free poured gin and tonics make you feel like you’re at home. Great place to chat the night away amongst locals. Oranienstraße 14A, 10999 Berlin
Bravo Bar: Small late night bar playing dancing tunes well into the early hours. Torstraße 230, 10115 Berlin
YAAM: This community focused riverside outdoor beach club is dedicated to African culture, with DJs, drinks, food and stalls to match. The relaxed, communal, reggae atmosphere is not to be missed. An d. Schillingbrücke 3, 10243 Berlin
No 51: Another Kreuzberg favourite with friendly staff and laid back interior. If you are lucky the bar tender will mix you delicious shots for free! Oranienpl. 15, 10999 Berlin