Holidays to Berlin

With a profound history to explore, an uber-hip nightlife scene, an abundance of art, and a gritty charm from top to bottom, Berlin is a stand-out European city break destination.

Cap-tastic city break

Can’t wait to kick off your Berlin holiday? You can reach the German capital from the UK in just under two hours by air. To see the city’s star attractions, book yourself on a free walking tour to tick off the Berlin Wall, Checkpoint Charlie and the Berlin Palace while learning about the city’s fascinating history. Do tip.

Then you’re free to squeeze in a coffee fix (try Refugio Café or Five Elephant) or some shopping (Mauerpark Flea Market and Kurfürstendamm). Alternatively, potter about in the green wonderland that is Tiergarten before heading to a beer garden for a drink (try Schleusenkrug or Prater).

Raw 20th-century history

From the dark years of Nazi rule to the Cold War, Berlin doesn’t shy away from the past – and it’s on show outdoors as much as it is indoors. The Berlin Wall Memorial and the Memorial to the Murdered Jews of Europe are both important to see.

To delve deeper into the past, visit the Allied Museum, the Anne Frank Zentrum and the Anti-War Museum. The Berlin-Hohenschönhausen Memorial, a former Stasi prison, is both a memorial and museum.

Europe’s party capital

There is, of course, another side to Berlin: its legendary nightlife. Housed in an old power station and known for its techno music, camera bans and strict but unclear entry policy, Berghain is always worth a shot (dress in black apparently).

If you don’t make the cut (don’t worry, there’s always next time), experience clubbing and artistic expression at Anomalie Art Club, where techno DJs work alongside visual artists.

Elsewhere, the party at Sisyphos – housed in a former dog biscuit factory – begins on Friday and continues, non-stop, until Monday. Or, for a more low-key night out, head to the punky Friedrichshain district for cocktails and food.