Berlin’s turbulent past has laid the foundations for what is now a city of cultural variety and striking contrasts. Gone are the days when Berlin was considered by tourists as interesting but poor and behind the times; the German capital has long since had a face lift and is now one of Europe’s most modern and fashionable capitals with sleek architecture and prime tourist attractions and a world leader as far as nightlife is concerned thanks to the continually bubbling creative activity that fuels Berlin’s edgy underground club and music scene. If you are coming here to enjoy Berlin’s night life, the ex-pat’s magazine Exberliner includes club listings and concerts and, naturally, it’s in English.
Being so trendy, young and vibrant, Berlin is a very attractive destination for budget airlines so finding cheap flights to Berlin is usually easy. As far as accommodation is concerned, self-catering apartments in Berlin are a good option and a great way of experiencing the city like just another Berliner. Budget B&B’s in Berlin have the added advantage that you can fill up on breakfast as it comes included in the price of your stay, especially as a German breakfast is a hearty affair that could see most people through till dinner!
Alte Schenhauser Strasse in the Mitte district is a good place to go for international cheap eats, and attracts both tourists and budget conscious locals. And for cheap and chic second hand clothes, all the cool kids head to Mauerpark flea market on Saturdays and Sundays where you can find everything from antique jewelry to hand printed t-shirts. Even if you don’t have any money to spend, this is a good place to experience the city’s alternative vibe and witness the city’s trendiest inhabitants strutting their stuff in some seriouly interesting outfits.
For a clearer understanding of this modern metropolis, head to Checkpoint Charlie, which is now a museum. And, literally for a clearer view of the city, nothing beats the glass dome of Reichstag parliament building, which is free to get into and offers incredible 360 degree views of the city from a giddy height and is especially pretty by night.
Berlin does shabby chic like no other city thanks to its combination of the edgy vibe in east and the ultra modern west, hence it’s reputation as “poor but sexy”. But If you want to explore the many different sides of this fascinating city, come soon as Berlin as a whole is on the up!
Sounds like a ‘must see’ vacation destination. Everyone is always looking for new and exciting places to visit.