Berlin, the capital of Germany, is a city full of contrasts. Between history and modernity, concrete and green spaces, nightlife and politics, it offers something special for everyone. My trip to Berlin was a colorful mix of sightseeing, culinary experiences, spontaneous discoveries, and unforgettable encounters. Once you’ve visited Berlin, it’s easy to understand why the city leaves such a lasting impression.
Arrival and First Impressions
My journey began at Berlin’s Central Station (Hauptbahnhof), an impressive structure of glass and steel. Even here, you get a sense of Berlin’s unique vibe: international, lively, a little chaotic—but undeniably charming. The station is centrally located, so I decided to walk towards the government district. My first stop: the Reichstag building.
The Reichstag, with its famous glass dome designed by Sir Norman Foster, is a symbol of transparency and democracy. I had booked a tour of the dome in advance—highly recommended! The circular walkway not only offers information about the German political system but also provides a fantastic panoramic view of the city.
Unter den Linden and Museum Island
From the Reichstag, I strolled along the grand boulevard “Unter den Linden.” Lined with linden trees, historic buildings, and modern shops, it’s a beautiful walk. Along the way, I passed the Brandenburg Gate, arguably Berlin’s most iconic landmark. It’s fascinating how this gate reflects Germany’s complex history—from a symbol of division to one of unity.
Another highlight was Museum Island, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that hosts five world-renowned museums. I chose to visit the Pergamon Museum, home to masterpieces like the Ishtar Gate from Babylon and the Pergamon Altar. It’s remarkable how many different cultures and time periods are represented under one roof.
Berlin Wall and Memorial Sites
Of course, no trip to Berlin is complete without exploring its Cold War history. While most of the Berlin Wall is gone, remnants remain in places like the East Side Gallery, the Berlin Wall Memorial on Bernauer Strasse, and Checkpoint Charlie. The East Side Gallery in particular moved me—it’s a 1.3-kilometer stretch of the wall covered in murals and messages by artists from around the world, all centered around freedom and change.
The Berlin Wall Memorial is less touristy but more powerful in its storytelling. Here, you can see preserved sections of the wall, watchtowers, and even a documentation center. It gives a haunting glimpse into what life was like when Berlin was divided.
Multicultural Life and Local Neighborhoods
Berlin is more than just its past. What struck me most was the vibrant life found in its neighborhoods. Every “Kiez,” as Berliners call their districts, has its own personality. In Kreuzberg, for example, the multicultural atmosphere is tangible: Turkish bakeries, Vietnamese restaurants, alternative boutiques, colorful street art—and in between, peaceful green spaces.
I let myself wander and eventually ended up at the market along Maybachufer. Between food stalls, secondhand clothes, and fresh produce, I struck up conversations with locals. Berliners are known for being direct but open—a refreshing combination.
A Culinary Adventure
Food-wise, Berlin has something for every taste. Naturally, I had to try a classic Berlin Currywurst—and though it’s a simple dish, it was surprisingly delicious. But beyond the local specialties, the city is a haven for international cuisine. Whether you’re craving Syrian, Korean, Israeli, vegan, or anything in between, Berlin has it all.
One of the highlights was dinner at a “Supper Club”—a private dinner party hosted in a Neukölln apartment. Locals and travelers gathered around a long table to enjoy a fusion menu prepared by a passionate home chef. The food was delicious, but what made the evening truly special was the sense of community and creativity.
A Bittersweet Goodbye
My trip ended with a peaceful walk through Tiergarten, Berlin’s vast central park. Surrounded by tall trees, quiet paths, and the occasional statue, I almost forgot I was in a major metropolis. It was the perfect place to reflect on everything I had seen and felt.
Berlin surprised me, moved me, and inspired me. It’s not a city that reveals itself instantly—you need to give it time and explore with open eyes. Between its rough edges and soft heart, its painful past and hopeful future, Berlin has a raw beauty that’s impossible to forget. It’s not perfect—but maybe that’s exactly why people fall in love with it.
