Berlin, Germany

26 Mar

Berlin is a city that effortlessly blends history, creativity, and modern energy. From the moment we arrived, stepping off the airport train straight into the heart of the city, we felt its unique pulse. The train ride was easy and efficient, and by 9 a.m., we were already enjoying coffee while gazing up at the Brandenburg Gate, bathed in morning light. Staying just around the corner meant we passed this iconic monument every day,a constant reminder of Germany’s remarkable history.

Our walking tour of Berlin took us deep into the city’s complex past. We explored the rise of the Third Reich, the devastation of World War II, and the decades when the city was divided. Standing before the Berlin Wall, we learned of families torn apart overnight and brave attempts to escape “no man’s land.” The graffiti-covered remnants, old watchtowers, and preserved stretches of the Wall were moving, a living testament to resilience and hope. Nearby, Checkpoint Charlie provided further insights into life during the Cold War, giving history a tangible, human face.

A visit to Sachsenhausen was a sobering but important experience. Unlike Auschwitz, this was a labour camp, but the stories of suffering, particularly of Russian prisoners, were harrowing. Walking through the camp and imagining the lives of those imprisoned there left us reflective and humbled.

Berlin’s architecture and culture are just as compelling as its history. We wandered through Museum Island, admiring its stunning buildings and world-class collections spanning ancient civilizations to modern masterpieces. The Berliner Dom stood majestically nearby, a beautiful contrast to the bustling streets. A visit to the Reichstag Building at sunset was unforgettable,the climb to the glass dome offered panoramic views across a city alive with light, history, and energy.

Exploring Alexanderplatz and the TV Tower, with its distinctive Russian-style design, was another highlight. Sitting in the plaza, watching locals and tourists alike, we felt the city’s vibrant heartbeat. Hidden corners, cosy cafés, and street art-filled courtyards in areas like Hackescher Markt revealed Berlin’s creative side, full of surprises around every corner.

Berlin’s culinary scene is as diverse as its history. We indulged in hearty German classics,bratwurst, schnitzel, pretzels, sauerkraut and of course a German kebab, washed down with crisp German beers or refreshing Radlers. Small cafés offered apple strudel and coffee, perfect for people-watching or taking a pause mid-exploration. Street food markets like Markthalle Neun showcased international flavours, reflecting Berlin’s cosmopolitan vibe

Berlin effortlessly balances its historical weight with lighthearted energy. Mauerpark on Sundays is a perfect example: a bustling flea market, street performers, and open-air karaoke bring locals and visitors together in a uniquely Berlin way. For quiet reflection, Tiergarten, the city’s central park, offered serene walking paths and picnic spots.

When the sun sets, Berlin transforms. Kreuzberg and Friedrichshain come alive with eclectic bars, live music, and nightlife, while a Spree River cruise provides a more relaxed, scenic way to take in the city’s landmarks.

The U-Bahn, buses, and trams make Berlin exceptionally easy to navigate, but walking often revealed the city’s hidden gems—little courtyards, boutique shops, and tucked-away cafés that don’t make the guidebooks. Every street seemed to carry a story.

Berlin is a city where history, creativity, and modern life intertwine seamlessly. From standing at the Brandenburg Gate to reflecting at the Berlin Wall, exploring Museum Island, and tasting the city’s culinary delights, every moment felt meaningful. Berlin is emotional, vibrant, and endlessly surprising.

2025-03