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Brandenburg Gate
The Brandenburg Gate was a symbol of the city's divide during the cold war era and today continues to be its most iconic monument. A visit should definitely be on the list of any short break in Berlin. Built in the 18th century, it remains as evocative as ever and is forever popular with visiting tourists.
The Berlin Wall
Although most of the wall has been dismantled since reunification, a 1,000 metre section remains standing, known as the East Side Gallery. This features over 100 paintings depicting both freedom and oppression and is perhaps the best way to get a real understanding of life in a divided city. Checkpoint Charlie is also a popular and much photographed attraction and features a museum and exhibition space.
The Reichstag
The historic parliamentary centre of Germany was reconstructed in the 1990's with the addition of a huge glass dome making it a popular attraction for architecture lovers. A viewing platform at the top affords sublime city views which are especially evocative at night. Guided tours of the Reichstag include talks and lectures and even sitting in on a parliamentary session.
Berlin Cathedral
Known locally as the Berliner Dom, it is an immensely beautiful baroque cathedral that required extensive reconstruction after World War II. Its interior features large stained glass windows, a magnificent organ and an informative onsite museum. Guided tours are conducted in English and German daily.
Berlin Zoo and Aquarium
Berlin Zoo is one of the oldest and largest zoos in Europe and makes for a magical day out for children. There are over 15,000 animals and 500 species of birds, most of which are housed in spacious open enclosures. Feeding times and animal shows are a particularly popular attraction with families as is the state of the art Aquarium. It has a prominent Elephant Gate - a Victorian oriental gate decorated with intricate elephant sculptures that should not be missed.
Museum Island
Museum Island is a massive complex of several impressive museums that is the cultural heart of Berlin. It includes the world famous Pergamon, homes to a vast array of Asian and Islamic art. The National Gallery is noted for its French impressionist art and the Museum of Popular Art showcases contemporary works from the 20th century. To fully appreciate all on show would take several days and is sure to delight culture lovers of every persuasion.
Alexanderplatz
Alexanderplatz is Berlin's most famous square and not only enjoys a vibrant urban atmosphere but also showcases a wealth of interesting Soviet era architecture. A long weekend in Berlin will allow you to sit back and relax in a cafe and admire the soaring Berlin TV tower which utterly dominates the city and the unique Fountain of International Friendship.
Charlottenburg Palace
The Prussian royal palace of Charlottenburg is the largest of its kind in Berlin and features quite spectacular baroque influenced architecture. Although rebuilt after World War II, it offers a wealth of art treasures and opulent furnishings and boasts lovely formal gardens with a series of historic fountains. It is the scene for glamorous classical music concerts during summer and must for anyone remotely interested in European imperial history.
The Jewish Museum
An interesting and thought provoking attraction, the Jewish Museum is a vibrant arts and cultural centre that explores the history of Judaism in Europe from its early beginnings. It features moving displays on the plight of Holocaust victims and has many interactive exhibits. It is worthy of a visit if only for the building's fabulous contemporary metal and glass design.
Spreewald
Visitors can indulge in a range of rewarding outdoor pursuits such as mountain biking, boating, watersports and hiking, just 1 hour from the city. The nature reserve of Spreewald is a sprawling natural wilderness of flowing rivers, rolling meadows and woodland filled with colourful flora and fauna. It is a stunningly beautiful environment for a day of adventure or simply to relax with a loved one and enjoy nature's gifts.
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