Brandenburg Gate (Berlin)

Located by the Pariserplatz in central Berlin, the Brandenburg Gate is probably the most famous landmark in the capital, if not the whole of Germany. Constructed in the late 18th century for the Prussian King Frederick William II, it was conceived as a monumental entrance to the former royal palace and is likely to be at the top of the list for cheap city breaks in Berlin. Not only is it a stunning work of art in its own right, but has gone down in history as a symbol of peace and unity for Berlin. It was the most noticeable demarcation point between East and West during the Cold War, forming part of the infamous Berlin Wall.

 

The design of the Brandenburg Gate was inspired by the gateway to the Acropolis in Athens and features soaring Doric columns either side of its grand arch. At its top is the famous Quadriga, a grandiose Romanesque sculpture that is perhaps the most photographed image in the city. The Brandenburg Gate attracts huge crowds on short breaks in Berlin daily, soaking up its visual appeal as well as its immense historic significance. Within the gate is the Hall of Silence which details the role it has played in Germany's turbulent history and well worth dropping in to.    

 

The most popular stop by far on the Berlin tour circuit, the Brandenburg Gate is unsurprisingly lively throughout the day and an enchanting sight after dark when it is bathed in twinkling illuminations. Sandwiched between parkland and the elegant Pariserplatz, the gate is the focus for myriad souvenir sellers, street entertainers and musicians and makes for a great spot to contemplate it all in one of the square’s arty pavement cafes. On weekends in Berlin, you can easily combine an hour or two here with a visit to the nearby Reichstag, another of the city's most compelling attractions.