A Visit to Berlin: History, Architecture, Culture

We came to Berlin for a few days break. It was a while ago now…

We were staying in London visiting with our son Linga, after our tour of Morocco in 2017. We wanted a small 3 day travel adventure with our son to somewhere new and exciting before we said goodbye to him and headed back on the long trip home to NZ.

And we could not think of any place more exciting than Berlin. We were right!

Berlin is a city brimming with history, museums, a town hall, restaurants, cafes, and picturesque scenery. You can explore the rich historical sites, immerse yourself in the vibrant museum scene, indulge in delicious culinary experiences, or simply wander around and soak in the captivating atmosphere.

Meeting a friend by the Spree River Berlin

This city is an absolute paradise for history buffs, art enthusiasts, and culture aficionados. Steeped in a rich past from the remnants of the Berlin Wall to the iconic Brandenburg Gate, every corner you turn uncovers a fascinating chapter in this city’s story.

A view of the Holocaust Memorial in Berlin, featuring its grey concrete slabs arranged in a grid pattern, with people walking and exploring the site under a clear blue sky. — Linga and Holocaust Memorial

But it’s not just about the past – Berlin is alive with energy and creativity. Its arts scene thrives with world-class museums like the Pergamon Museum and galleries showcasing contemporary masterpieces. If you’re seeking culture, there are numerous theaters and opera houses offering performances that rival those found on prestigious stages around the world. We met fellow kiwis who were in Berlin because of the vibrant music scene.

Statue of the Quadriga atop the Brandenburg Gate in Berlin, featuring a chariot drawn by four horses with a figure holding a staff and eagle. — Brandenburg Gate Berlin

And if peaceful strolls are more your thing, simply wander through its parks and gardens or beside the Spree River; there’s something about their awesome beauty that is simply enchanting.

Exploring Berlin is like uncovering limitless treasures at every turn. And we were constantly in awe of the Berliners who we found to be approachable and gave us great directions to the next place of interest. Whole conversations were held with us right there on the footpath before we rambled off on our journey.

As we tucked into roast pork knuckle at a local restaurant we shared a table with a fascinating woman who works as an art historian and is currently involved in searching for art works seized by the Nazis during WWII in an effort to return them to their rightful owners. This encounter was just one of the many wonderful experiences that left an indelible mark on our journey.

How fortunate that we were not only introduced to Berlin’s awe-inspiring sights but also to the incredible people that call Berlin home!

Café on Unter den Linden and Brandenburg Gate

Things we did:

Berlin is full of history, art and surprises around every corner. We spent our days walking, looking up, and soaking it all in. Here’s a list of the main sights we enjoyed – each one offered something different and memorable:

Spree River – We took a lovely stroll along the river and enjoyed the view of boats gliding past Berlin’s historic buildings.
Berlin Reichstag and Glass Dome – Don’t miss the rooftop dome! It’s free to visit (but you need to book ahead) and gives wonderful views over the city.
Pergamon Museum – An outstanding collection of ancient artefacts. The Pergamon Altar is being renovated, but there’s still plenty to see.
TV Tower, Berlin – We went up to the top for panoramic views. It’s a fun way to get your bearings.
Checkpoint Charlie – A well-known Cold War landmark. There’s a small outdoor museum here too.
Brandenburg Gate – One of Berlin’s most iconic spots. It’s especially pretty when lit up at night.
Berlin Wall – Seeing the remains of the wall and reading the stories really brings home the city’s divided past.
Berlin Cathedral (Berliner Dom) – A magnificent church with a huge dome. We climbed to the top – lots of stairs but worth it!
Potsdamer Platz – A modern square with shops, restaurants, and bits of the old wall mixed in.
Holocaust Memorial – A moving and thought-provoking place. Quiet, respectful and powerful in its simplicity.
The Banksy Museum – A fun and unexpected stop full of thought-provoking street art and social messages.
Berlin’s Street Art – From giant murals to quirky stickers, the city is full of creative surprises around every corner.

We really enjoyed our time in Berlin – it’s a fascinating mix of old and new. If you’re planning a trip, I’d happily recommend taking your time to explore on foot, as there’s something to see on every street.