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The city of Berlin really surprised me in the best possible way. I want to go everywhere and see everything, so naturally I was excited to visit Berlin, but I didn’t expect to like it as much as I did. I pictured it as being sort of a grungy/industrial/hipster mecca. There certainly is that side to the city, but Berlin has so much more to offer. Really, whats not to love?
1- History
Berlin has a notorious and very dark history, but it helps shape the city you see today. I love Berlin’s willingness to confront the more upsetting parts of their history rather than sweep them under the rug. From WWII to the Berlin Wall, you will find reminders of Berlin’s history everywhere in the city. Not only is this important for educational purposes (those who don’t learn from history and whatnot), but it’s also fascinating. Those with firsthand knowledge of WWII Berlin are getting fewer and fewer, but the fall of the wall was recent enough that you can still find plenty of locals to chat with about life in East and West Germany. Buy a local a beer and prepare some eye opening tales.
Berlin old and new
2- Food
You can find all of the German classics in Berlin; pretzels, bratwurst, sauerkraut, but Berlin has so many immigrants and transplants that world cuisine is really where this city shines. Perhaps the most notorious Berlin food is a blend of traditional German cuisine and international flavors; the currywurst, a food so famous it has it’s own museum! Of course no trip to Berlin would be complete without a late night doner kebab! My personal favorite though, was Fes Turkish BBQ. I had never experienced a Turkish BBQ, or even heard of one before (thanks to Per from Berlin Food Stories for the introduction). The experience at Fes is to enjoy some amazing starters and sides, while you heat up your table and cook your own perfectly marinated meat!
3- Whimsy
Out of such a dark history, Berlin has emerged as a fun and fanciful city. There are touches of whimsy hidden all over the city to be discovered. From the gardens, to the street art, to the beach clubs, you’ll find fun little touches designed for the sole purpose of making passersby smile.
4- Dance Halls
You read that right. Dance hall culture is alive and well in Berlin. Tango, foxtrot, swing, whatever your fancy may be, there’s a place for you to learn and practice your steps in Berlin. This is a big deal! Believe me, it’s hard to find a place to tango in 2016!
5- Real Estate Prices
This is perhaps the best thing about Berlin. Central Europe at an affordable price? Who knew that was still possible? The market is still recovering after the reunification which is great news for investors and those looking to expat in Europe on the cheap. Unfortunately, the rest of the world has caught wind of this and prices have been steadily increasing over the past few years, so act fast! While it may not be quite as cheap as it was a few years ago, it’s definitely an affordable option to keep in mind should the worst happen with the upcoming U.S. election 😉
Many thanks to Visit Berlin for inviting me to explore this incredible city, as always opinions are my own.
There are so many reasons to really like Berlin. Such a charming and elegant city. It is no small wonder that you have fallen in love with the place.
I have traveled all around Southern Germany but have never made it up to Berlin! On my must visit list!
One of the most historic places in the world. ?Gotta get there@
I visited Berlin a couple times while studying abroad in Germany back in my college years. It really is a fascinating city to visit for history buffs, especially for those interested in WWII, the Cold War, and the reunification of Germany.
Man, for me the biggest thing was not only the food, but that they had SO MUCH vegetarian and vegan food. I could pretty much find my choice of vego food at 3 am. I was so surprised, yet so delighted! Berlin of all places!
I went to the currywurst museum and it was so interactive and fun! Plus I loved the tasters!! I did not know dancing was such a big thing there- I’m gutted I didn’t go to a dance hall now!
The history in Berlin is incredible. I remember when I visited there and realized there was a brick line running through the city that represented where the wall had been- it was crazy to see it going through malls and down streets. Really interesting city!
It’s funny that the currywurst has its own museum. We went to Munich this year and kept hearing about the currywurst. I’ve been to so many places in Germany but haven’t made it to Berlin yet. Thanks for the rundown!
I have to admit I didn’t like Berlin at first but then I visited the colorful East Side Gallery and the hipster neighborhood Kreuzberg and I was sold. I would love to go back and explore more because it has so many places I didn’t know about and haven’t visited. Would love to know more about the “Food stories Berlin”. Did you go to the memorial?
Berlin is so easy to fall for! I love the mix of old and new throughout the city. I enjoyed the food scene in Berlin too, and can’t believe I missed the Currywurst Museum! Nice time 🙂
I loved Berlin so much! Before I went, I kind of felt like I wouldn’t like it, and I have no idea why. Luckily, I was totally wrong and can’t wait to go back! You’re right about the history – Berliners willingness to confront their city’s past was one of my favourite things.
Lovely places you’ve covered! I would also add the Berlin Film Festival to the list! Such a beautiful cultural melting pot of a city, I <3 Berlin
I think I just fell in love with Berlin just by reading your post. I need to head to this interesting city soon!
I don’t need any reasons to fall in love with Berlin, I already am haha 🙂 one of my favorite cities in the world, always a pleasure to be back there 🙂
[…] written about it before, but Berlin really stole my heart. I wasn’t expecting to love this city, but now I can’t wait to […]
And that’s the reason why I want to go there as soon as possible!