Travel Guides > Berlin, Germany

Berlin Travel

For many young Berliners, the city's past is something that's better forgotten and deemed never to be repeated. Even before the city was divided in 1961, an era which is appalling to Berlin's young, the city had already suffered, having been devastated in World War II, necessitating much rebuilding and renovation. When the wall went up years later, much of the city's wonderful culture wound up on one side, leaving the other no option but to build new and exciting concert venues, museums, and other things important to German culture.

Today's visitors can now reap the benefits of two Germanys, though the city hasn't been divided since the Berlin Wall came down in 1989. That means there are twice as many wonderful things to see and do and each section of the city takes on a slightly different character.

Berlin is home to about 175 museums, making it hard to choose if you have a limited amount of time to visit. The Pergamon Museum is the most widely visited of all the museums and is divided into three sections; an antiquity collection, the Middle East museum and the museum of Islamic art. Be sure to see the Pergamon Altar, built around 180 B.C.

It was the desire of The German Historical Museum, built in 1987, to "strive to help the citizens of our country to gain a clear idea of who they are as Germans and Europeans, as inhabitants of a region and members of a worldwide civilization."; Nevertheless, this is one of the museums that's most-visited by foreign guests as well. It's divided into seven dated area: around 1200, around 1500, around 1800, around 1914, around 1933, around 1945, and around 1989/90.

For a documented history of the Berlin Wall in particular, visit the Checkpoint Charlie Museum. Located at this most famous border crossing, this fascinating museum tells the story of the Wall through films, artifacts, documents, and photos. Hear the amazing stories of courageous escapes to freedom.

If you enjoy ecclesiastical architecture, head for the Berlin Cathedral, the largest protestant church in Germany. Built at the turn of the 20th century, it also boasts a beautiful garden. The Marienkirche (Church of St. Mary's), built in the 15th century, is also a magnificent sight.

You'll also want to visit the remains of the Kaiser Wilhelm Memorial Church, once a grand red sandstone structure that was reduced to rubble near the end of World War II. Berliners decided not to rebuild and to leave the remains here as a reminder of the atrocities of war.

When you've had enough history, head outside and visit the splendid Botanical Garden, with the largest palm house in the world and a great arboretum as well. Kids will love the Zoological Gardens, which was nearly devastated during World War II (only several dozen animals remained), but is now home to more than 13,000 animals.

The zoo is located in the Tiergarten, an expansive park that's a great place to jog, sun, or enjoy a picnic.

If you're interested in the performing arts, take in a concert by the Berlin Philharmonic, one of the best orchestras in the world.