Berlin’s combination of glamour and grit is bound to mesmerise all those keen to explore its vibrant culture, cutting-edge architecture, fabulous food, intense parties, and tangible history.
On a recent multi-generational family weekend in the ‘Grey City,’ Jo of the ITTN Group found that a city bus tour was the ideal foundation for a weekend. Jumping aboard the open-top bus allowed her family to see quintessential landmarks like the Berlin Wall, Brandenburg Gate, and Checkpoint Charlie, while also giving them the opportunity to discover other nooks and crannies.
Food and Drink:
Sphere Restaurant: In the rotating Sphere Restaurant, located 207 meters high, you’ll experience something truly unique: a complete 360-degree panoramic view of the city that rotates twice every hour. Enjoy lunch or dinner from a seasonally changing menu highlighting authentic and regional Berlin cuisine while the city revolves around you.
Ice Bar: The renovated Berlin Ice Bar is the biggest ice bar in Europe. There, you will become part of the crew of the Hansa, one of Germany’s Polar Expedition exploration ships from 1869. You can meet your fellow crew members in the warm tavern before the captain calls you to board the ship. Spend up to 30 minutes in the freezing temperature enjoying an ice-cold selection of delicious cocktails, Heineken, or Desperados beer. (Berlin Icebar: the Coolest Bar near Alexanderplatz).
Landmarks:
The Berlin Hop-on Hop-Off Sightseeing Tours are the perfect way to experience all the major attractions. First up, you can’t miss Checkpoint Charlie. Probably the most famous Cold War crossing point, you can now visit a museum dedicated to the history of the checkpoint and the wall. Another great place to hop off is the Brandenburg Gate, which marks the memory of another wall, as there was once a gate into the city here. The spectacular 18th-century monument that stands on the site today is a symbol of the city and also a symbol of peace and unity for both Germany and Europe. For something completely different, hop off at the Computerspielemuseum and find out all about the history of video games.
Hotel:
Steigenberger Hotel Am Kanzleramt Berlin:
Located 2.1 kilometres from shopping venues such as the historic square “Potsdamer Platz,” the 5-star Steigenberger Hotel Am Kanzleramt Berlin includes a restaurant and baggage storage. The hotel has an à la carte restaurant serving international cuisine and is situated within minutes of Berlin Central.