Two sides to Berlin

Germany’s dynamic and cosmopolitan capital is ever‑evolving, ensuring that both first-time and returning visitors have much to explore, says Stuart Forster

Why sell it

Berlin has a serious and fun-loving side, with visitors able to tap into both during a stay.

This year, Germany’s capital celebrates 35 years since the fall of the Berlin Wall with a series of ceremonies, exhibitions and open-air events planned in the city on and around November 9.

A winter visit also times well with Christmas festivities, when the city puts on a twinkling display with a Christmas market in each of Berlin’s districts.

A broad choice of attractively-priced hotels is also a factor in Berlin’s strong appeal as a city break destination.

How to sell

Berlin Brandenburg
Brandenburg Gate

The city is less than two hours’ flight from UK airports, making it ideal as a long weekend city break destination. Train travel is also possible, starting on the Eurostar and continuing with the European Sleeper from Brussels or ICE connections.

Each of Berlin’s 12 districts is a hub for local life but travelling between them, and to top attractions, is easy thanks to a well-connected public transport network that includes Berlin Brandenburg Airport.
Buying 24-hour tickets is good value, or visitors can invest in a Berlin WelcomeCard, valid between 48 hours and six days.

What to sell

Following a tumultuous 20th century, several museums unpick aspects of German history. Thought-provoking, the Topography of Terror and Stasi Museum focus on repressing opponents, while the DDR Museum gives insights into life east of the Iron Curtain. The Berlin Wall Memorial conveys details of the infamous barrier. Like the East Side Gallery, which has colourful murals, it has original panels.

And in a city associated with espionage, the German Spy Museum is both informative and fun. Visitors here can experience decrypting code and navigating a corridor crisscrossed with laser beams.
Fans of Bridgerton may appreciate the grand palaces at Charlottenburg, in the heart of Berlin, and Sanssouci, in nearby Potsdam.

Who to sell to

Sport and history enthusiasts are likely to appreciate touring the Berlin Olympiastadion, the stadium of the 1936 Olympics. A host venue of the UEFA EURO 2024 football tournament, it’s home to Hertha BSC, who play in Germany’s second tier. Bundesliga club 1 FC Union Berlin plays at the atmospheric Stadion An der Alten Försterei.

For foodies, Berlin’s diverse dining scene has options across price points, with Currywurst – including vegetarian alternatives – a popular and affordable snack. Vegan options abound and there’s a broad choice of cuisines, with Korean food in vogue.

Conducted at an easy pace, guided Fork and Walk Tours offer themed insights into Berlin’s culinary heritage. Held in the Prenzlauer Berg district, the Trends and Classics Food Tour is a bestseller.

What’s new

Recent openings include the Humboldt Forum on Museum Island, the interactive, family-friendly Deutschlandmuseum at Leipziger Platz and Fotografiska – a photography, art and cultural hub with a fine-dining restaurant, Veronika, café and rooftop Bar Clara.

Book it with…easyJet holidays
easyJet holidays offers a three-night break to Berlin from £190pp, including return flights from Manchester and a stay at the four-star Leonardo Royal Hotel Berlin Alexanderplatz. easyjet.com

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