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What is the Symbol of Berlin, Germany: Unveiling the City’s Iconic Emblem

Berlin, the capital city of Germany, embodies a rich tapestry of history and culture . As an urban hub in the heart of Europe, it is distinguished not just by its historical significance and vibrant lifestyle but also by its emblematic symbols.

The most prominent symbol of Berlin is the Berlin Bear , a figure deeply ingrained in the city’s identity and often seen throughout its streets and public spaces.

The bear appears on the city’s coat of arms , representing a tradition that dates back to the 13th century.

This heraldic symbol of Berlin showcases a black bear with a red tongue and claws, standing proudly on its hind legs beneath a crown, which signifies Berlin’s sovereignty and its status as a state within Germany. The bear is a symbol deeply associated with the city, reflecting its strength, resilience, and the spirit of its inhabitants.

Historical Significance

In Berlin, symbols transcend mere emblems, encapsulating momentous historical events and evolutions. They are stitched into the city’s fabric, embodying its transformation from a Prussian seat of power to a pivotal city in global history.

The Making of Berlin

The origins of Berlin can be traced back to the Brandenburg , which was established as the Margraviate of Brandenburg . Over time, it evolved into a key cultural and political hub within the Germanic territories, especially under the rule of the Kingdom of Prussia.

Berlin’s growth was influenced by classical ideals, later reflected in the city’s architecture and iconic structures such as the Brandenburg Gate , with its neoclassical columns and Quadriga —a chariot drawn by four horses.

Key Historical Events

Berlin has borne witness to a tumultuous history, with its fate often entangled with that of Germany itself. Throughout the Second World War , the city suffered extensive damage from bombing.

The post-war division of Berlin by the Berlin Wall epitomized the Cold War’s impact, separating East Germany and West Berlin until 1989 . The fall of the Berlin Wall in 1989 marked a pivotal moment, leading to reunification and ending the city’s physical and ideological segregation.

Berlin and Its Symbols Through Ages

Berlin’s coat of arms displays a black eagle and a red tongue , harkening back to the city’s medieval roots. Over time, it incorporated symbols of power such as the Iron Cross and elements of national symbol  of Berlin Germany.

The Brandenburg Gate , crowned with its Quadriga , is perhaps the most iconic, symbolizing victory and peace throughout various epochs, including the tumultuous era of Nazi Germany and later, as a symbol of reunification .

Post-Reunification Developments

With the fall of the wall and the onset of a unified Germany , Berlin underwent significant changes. Landmarks like the Reichstag building have been refurbished, reflecting a new era of transparency and unity.

The Potsdamer Platz and Checkpoint Charlie have transitioned from symbols of division to places where people celebrate German unity and shared culture.

Cultural Impact and Global Influence

Berlin’s historical narrative has profoundly influenced its role on the global stage. The symbol of Berlin, from the Brandenburg Gate to the graffiti-adorned remnants of the Berlin Wall , have become emblems of tolerance and new beginnings.

Important speeches, including Ronald Reagan’s famous address, echoed against the backdrop of the Brandenburg Gate, have further cemented Berlin’s status as an international beacon of freedom and resilience.

Berlin as the Capital of Germany

Berlin holds a status at the forefront of political power and urban transformation in Germany. As the capital city, it is the central hub for the nation’s federal government, as well as an influential force in the country’s economic landscape.

Political and Legal Relevance

Berlin is not only the seat of the federal government of Germany but also the location of the Reichstag , which serves as the meeting place for the German parliament.

The city’s importance is further emphasized by its legal status ; it is one of Germany’s sixteen federated states, often referred to as “Länder”. Within its own governance, Berlin maintains state-like authority over its territory and legislature, solidifying its pivotal role in the governance of the country.

Economic and Urban Development

Berlin has been the scene of significant economic and urban development . Spanning an area of approximately 891.8 square kilometers, the city is comprised of expansive forests , numerous lakes , and several rivers , which contribute to the city’s geography and its development.

Both the Greater Berlin area and the city’s well-structured infrastructure have been key to enabling Berlin to become one of Europe’s most influential economic centers.

Berlin’s Identity and Emblems

Berlin’s rich history and culture are embodied in its symbols—the Bear on its coat of arms and the majestic Brandenburg Gate.

City Emblem and Significance

Berlin’s official emblem is the Bear , a figure deeply entrenched in the city’s identity. The coat of arms of Berlin showcases a black bear with a red tongue and claws standing on its hind legs, underlined by two red stripes.

This bear, or “Bär” in German, is not just a logo, but a representation of Berlin’s heritage and a symbol that Berliners call their own. The five-leaf crown above the bear signifies sovereignty and the city’s status as a metropolis.

Brandenburg Gate as a National Icon

Situated at Pariser Platz in the heart of Berlin’s Mitte district, the Brandenburg Gate epitomizes Germany’s history. This neoclassical monument, crowned with a Quadriga —a chariot drawn by four horses—carrying the Goddess of Victory , stands as a representation of peace.

The gate symbolized division during the Berlin Wall era and now stands for reunification , serving as an emblematic gathering place for locals and tourists alike. Columns rise grandly to support the structure, aligning it with classical traditions and monumental architecture.

Representation in Culture and Media

The symbol of Berlin, particularly the Bear, permeate through culture and media , reflecting the city’s spirit and endurance. The creature can be seen in various statues and signs throughout the city, conveying a sense of unity and resilience, especially amidst past adversities like World War II and the Cold War.

Meanwhile, the Brandenburg Gate is frequently depicted in films, literature, and promotional materials, underscoring its status as an iconic landmark akin to Monuments on Museum Island . These emblems serve as ubiquitous reminders of Berlin’s past and present, embedding themselves into the fabric of city life and identity.

Architecture and Landmarks

Berlin’s landscape is a tapestry woven from its turbulent history and its dynamic present, merging historical landmarks with contemporary marvels.

The city’s architecture tells tales of past devastations and present reunifications, making its iconic monuments potent symbols of Berlin’s ongoing narrative.

Historic Structures and Reconstruction

The Brandenburg Gate is a monumental example of Berlin’s historic structures. This sandstone gate has stood through the city’s changing fortunes and is an enduring symbol of reunification .

Though it incurred damage from bombing during World War II, it has been meticulously restored. The Reichstag building , another prominent edifice, mirrors this pattern of destruction and careful reconstruction, symbolizing the resilience of the German capital.

Significant Cultural Venues

Museum Island , accessible via public transportation and located in the Mitte district, is a celebration of Berlin’s vibrant cultural scene.

This ensemble of museums hosts an array of artifacts that span the breadth of human history. Also, the University of the Arts , one of the largest art schools in Europe, showcases modern creativity and continues to bolster Berlin’s standing as a cultural hub.

Modern Architectural Highlights

In the wake of Berlin’s reunification, areas like Potsdamer Platz have been revitalized. Once a bustling square, it fell into desolation as the city was divided but now features sleek skyscrapers and commercial centers.

Moreover, public transportation hubs and new constructions in the capital underscore a commitment to both functionality and aesthetic innovation, supporting the city’s gathering on occasions such as New Year’s Eve and everyday life alike.

Transportation and Accessibility

Berlin boasts an extensive and inclusive public transportation system which serves as a testament to the city’s commitment to accessibility. Following the reunification of Germany , the capital has worked diligently to integrate and enhance its transport services .

The Berlin-Brandenburg Transport Association (VBB) is notable for pioneering services catering to individuals with special needs. It operates a guide service that is complimentary, assisting passengers from their homes to their destinations from Monday through Sunday, between 7 AM and 10 PM.

In terms of overall connectivity:

• U-Bahn and S-Bahn : Majority of stations accessible to wheelchair users
• Buses and Trams : Fully accessible with features for those with mobility impairments
• Road Network: Extensive autobahn connections to the rest of Germany and neighboring countries, facilitating cross-border travel

The Mobility Act of 2018 underscored Berlin’s commitment to improving mobility across the city, with particular attention to those with disabilities, in light of a growing and ageing population. These initiatives underscore how the city’s transport infrastructure and policy ensure that mobility in Berlin is inclusive and forward-thinking .

The Berlin Bear is the enduring symbol of Berlin, Germany. Historically, its presence on the coat of arms of Berlin reflects the city’s heritage and the qualities it represents. The bear appears across various mediums, from statues to street signs , signifying Berlin’s unique identity.

Symbols hold immense power by encapsulating the spirit of the place they represent. In the case of Berlin, the bear is no exception.

It symbolizes the city’s resilience and unity , echoing Berlin’s journey through significant historical events, such as World War II and the Cold War era. The repeated imagery of this powerful animal fortifies the bond between the city’s past and its current landscape.

The bear is more than just a figure; it is a testament to the city’s ability to survive, adapt, and grow. For visitors and locals alike, it stands as a constant reminder of Berlin’s character, its struggles, and its triumphs.

Consequently, the Berlin Bear isn’t simply an icon; it’s a symbol deeply rooted in the city’s collective consciousness, representing Berlin’s indomitable spirit through the ages.

Frequently Asked Questions

The symbol of Berlin , Germany, has piqued the curiosity of many. This section provides well-informed responses to some of the most commonly posed inquiries regarding Berlin’s emblematic bear.

Why is the bear considered the symbol of Berlin?

The bear is regarded as the symbol of Berlin, and it prominently features on the city’s coat of arms . This association dates back to the medieval ages, and while several theories exist, the most widely accepted one relates to the name of the city.

What is the meaning behind the Berlin Bear symbol?

The Berlin Bear is a symbol of the city’s strength and vigilance. It represents Berlin’s gritty resilience throughout its tumultuous history , including periods of division and reunification.

Can you explain the significance of the bear statues found throughout Berlin?

Dotting the cityscape, bear statues reflect Berlin’s artistic flair and cultural significance. These statues, called “Buddy Bears,” serve as ambassadors of peace, promoting tolerance and understanding among nations and cultures.

What does the Berlin flag represent?

The flag of Berlin features the bear symbol against a white background, flanked by two red stripes. The bear embodies the city’s strength, while the red stripes symbolize valor and readiness to defend the freedom and ideals the city stands for.

How did the bear become the national animal of Berlin?

The bear became associated with Berlin through the Seal of the Margrave of Brandenburg, Albrecht I, dating back to the 13th century. It is theorized that the bear’s adoption as a symbol is a play on the Margrave’s name (Albrecht).

Where can one find Berlin Bear souvenirs?

Tourists can find Berlin Bear souvenirs in the plethora of gift shops scattered across the city. These items range from bear-shaped chocolates to miniatures of the famed Buddy Bears.

I've spent years curating the perfect Berlin experience, from the history to the cutting-edge cool of its avant-garde art scenes. My blog is your all-access pass to the most exclusive spots, often missed by guidebooks and tours in Berlin. I also love data and publish open source data work about Airbnb.

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The Berlin Bear: Discovering the City’s Symbol in Statues and Signs

by Original Berlin Tours | Mar 7, 2024 | Original Berlin

Introduction

When you think of Berlin, you might envision a bustling metropolis filled with history, art, and culture. But did you know that the city has a symbol that is omnipresent in its streets, buildings, and landmarks? That symbol is the iconic Berlin Bear. In this article, we will explore the significance of the bear in Berlin’s history and how it is depicted in statues and signs throughout the city.

The Bear in Berlin’s History

For centuries, the bear has played a central role in Berlin’s history and identity. It has been present in the city’s coat of arms since the 13th century, symbolizing strength, resilience, and protection. The bear was also associated with the Margraviate of Brandenburg, the historical precursor to the state of Berlin. Even after the reunification of Germany, the bear remains a powerful symbol of the city.

Statues Depicting the Berlin Bear

Walking through Berlin, you will come across numerous statues depicting bears. These statues serve as reminders of the city’s past and are popular tourist attractions. One of the most famous bear statues is located at the entrance of the Berlin Zoo. This statue, known as “Bobby and Bärchen,” is a beloved symbol of the city and is often adorned with hats and scarves by visitors.

Another notable bear statue can be found at the Neptunbrunnen, a fountain located in Alexanderplatz. This statue showcases a bear standing on its hind legs, holding a Berlin coat of arms. The Neptunbrunnen bear is a symbol of the city’s resilience and endurance, particularly during the challenging times of the World War II and the division of Berlin during the Cold War.

The Bear in Street Signs

The Berlin Bear is not limited to statues; it also appears on street signs around the city. One such sign is the iconic Ampelmännchen, the pedestrian crossing lights found throughout Berlin. In some areas, the Ampelmännchen features a bear instead of the traditional human figure. This charming adaptation of the symbol serves as a playful reminder of Berlin’s identity.

Additionally, you may notice the bear on street name signs. In certain neighborhoods, such as Berlin-Mitte, streets named after bears can be found, such as Bärenstraße (Bear Street) and Bärenplatz (Bear Square). These street names contribute to the overall presence of the bear in Berlin’s landscape.

Why is the Berlin Bear Important?

The Berlin Bear is not only a symbol of the city’s history but also a cherished emblem of its inhabitants. It represents the city’s resilience in the face of adversity, its strong sense of identity, and its rich cultural heritage. The bear serves as a unifying symbol for both locals and visitors, creating a sense of belonging and pride in Berlin’s unique character.

The Berlin Bear is a fascinating symbol that can be found in statues and signs throughout the city. It represents Berlin’s history, resilience, and identity. Whether you come across a bear statue or a bear-adorned street sign, these sightings serve as constant reminders of the city’s past and its inhabitants’ sense of pride.

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The berlin bear – the coat of arms of berlin.

The Berlin Coat of Arms features a bear – the Berlin Bear. But how or why the Berlin Bear became Berlin’s coat of arms remains mostly unknown. Or actually there are different theories and all them seem to make sense.

The city’s name Berlin is actually quite close to how you would spell ‘bear’. SO chances are, that the city is actually named after the Bear. But which bear? And why would you name a city after an animal?

Most likely the bear refers to the first Margrave of Brandenburg Albert I who was also called  Albert the Bear (‘ Albrecht der Bär ‘,  1100 – 1170). In 1132 he received the North Mark, east of the junction of the rivers Elbe and Havel from the Holy Roman emperor Lothar II. He founded the ‘Mark Brandenburg’ and ruled the area around today’s Berlin. It is not clear why he was actually called ‘The Bear’ – but the City of Berlin could actually be named after him. But that is just one of many different theories.

The ‘Bär’ would only explain the first half of the city’s name. The second half however is not so diffucult to explain: in old German language the ‘~lin’ would kind of underline the endearment, making the ‘Bear’ a ‘Little Bear’. So it could actually very well be, that the city is named after the animal. By the way: that would make the ‘ Berlin Bear ‘ actually ‘ The little bear’s bear ‘ – but maybe that’s now a little bit too philosophical.

Anyways. On the other hand there is the theory that ‘Berlin’ actually originates from the Slavic word ‘Berl’ for swamp, which would also make perfect sense, since Berlin was originally built on rather swampy grounds . Again the ‘~lin’ would kind of underline the endearment, making the ‘swamp’ a ‘little swamp’.

While it may be unclear where the bear, featured in the Berlin Coat of Arms, actually comes from, one thing remains certain: Berlin and the Berliners love their Berlin Bear. The Bear is not only part of Berlin’s coat of arms, but also in the hearts and souls of probably every Berliner – everybody’s darling – and it’s literally everywhere. For example: when you approach Berlin via Autobahn A24 (from Hamburg) you might have noticed a bear statue marking the Berlin city boundary. Or on the Moabiter Brücke, a bridge in Moabit, you can find a couple of bear sculptures. And then there are over 1200 sculptures of the art project “Buddy Bär”  that are often placed in front of hotels and museums, designed and decorated by various international artists. Feel free to check the bears at the website of the art project: www.buddy-baer.com/en.html

Berlin Coat of Arms: The Berlin Bear

However – since around 1280 the bear is ‘ the official animal ‘ of Berlin.The current ‘Logo’ of Berlin was designed by Ottfried Neubecker (1908–1992).

The ‘City Logo’ features a silver ‘shield’ (often white is used instead for practical reasons). A black bear with a red tounge and red claws, looking to the left. The shield is ‘crowned* by a combination of a wall and leafs.

Meet the Real Bears

And then there are also some real, living Berlin bears. The first ‘generation’ was a group of four living Bears that moved in to a rather small bear pit near Märkisches Museum / Köllnischer Park in Berlin-Mitte in 1939. Three of them died during the war.

Berlin Bear – Photo by Angela Monika Arnold, Berlin (Own work) CC BY-SA 3.0 , via Wikimedia Commons

Since then there always has been follow-up bears, often given by other countries as a gift to the City of Berlin. Please feel free to visit either the website of “ Berliner Bärenfreunde e. V. ” (German) to see some photos of the bears. There is also some further information available in English on the website  www.berliner-baer.de . Or if you happen to be in Berlin you can of course also just go and visit the Berlin bears in person – on location.

Update: In October 2015 the last remaining Berlin Bear Schnute died age 34. She has been ill for quite some time and was put to sleep on Sunday. 11 October 2015. Farewell Schnute. Read on: “ Berlin’s last ‘city bear’ finally put to sleep ” (theLocal.de)

Berlin Bear Souvenirs

If you want to take the Berlin Bear home with you, you’ll have a large number of memorabilia to choose from: mugs, t-shirts, pens – basically everything you can print a bear on is available at any of the souvenir shops.

Everything named Berlin Bear

Berlin’s ice hockey team is also called Berlin Ice Bears (‘Berliner Eisbären’). And then there is of course also a Hotel named ‘Hotel Berliner Bär’ in Tempelhof, right next to the Airfield of the former airport Tempelhof ( www.hotel-berliner-baer.de ). And that’s not the only one – at least on the island Rügen there is another hotel with the exact name, and also in the small town Lautenthal near the mountains of Harz there is another hotel with that name. And there’s also a restauraunt Berliner Baer in Beeville, Texas, USA. But it would probably too much to list all the restaurants and hotels, that are named after the Berlin Coat of Arms: The Berlin Bear.

Do you have and thoughts, suggestions, additional recommendations or comments? Please feel free to leave your comment below. Thank you!

One thought on “ The Berlin Bear – The Coat of Arms of Berlin ”

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Now is the time you can once again visit Berlin. Enjoy all the classic hotspots, or take a break from the hustle & bustle, and head towards the wide-open city lakes and green spaces for some action-packed outdoor activities.

When people think of Berlin, the first thing that probably comes to mind is its most famous landmark – the Brandenburg Gate. A symbol of division for decades, the monument has always been at the heart of a major city bursting with ideas, inspiration, art, culture and creativity. Wonderful residential areas, sophisticated galleries and the Kurfürstendamm – the very definition of an exclusive shopping street – can all be found in the west of the city. And the nightlife is not to be missed, either.

Berlin's prestigious Unter den Linden boulevard extends eastwards, passing the Museum Island UNESCO World Heritage Site as well as numerous buildings that have been instrumental in the city's history.

Berlin TV Tower

Charlottenburg palace, reichstag building, brandenburg gate, gendarmenmarkt, museum island.

Nearby is the Gendarmenmarkt square with the German Cathedral, French Cathedral and the Konzerthaus concert hall. There is a very chilled vibe to both the Alexanderplatz square and the Hackesche Höfe within the central Mitte district. The Hackesche Höfe complex is the largest series of enclosed courtyards in Germany, where visitors will find a multicultural mixture of art galleries, cinemas, theatres and cabaret, pubs, restaurants and bars, nice little boutiques and flagship stores.

The progressive spirit of optimism that engulfed the reunified city was – and still is – astounding. Art began to take over streets, the walls of buildings and even entire districts. Artists have even appropriated the remains of the Berlin Wall, a section of which now goes by the name of the East Side Gallery and has become an illustrated encyclopedia of street art. Want to explore Berlin? It's a unique experience!

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Cities with industrial history: travel back in time to the 19th century, hotspots of automobile history, summer at last: beer gardens, swimming fun, strawberry ice cream, insider tips: cycling routes beyond the classics, art treasures throughout the centuries, camping and trekking under starry skies, explore the surroundings.

I lived in Berlin for 2 years and return often as a travel writer. Here's my complete visitor's guide to the German capital.

• Berlin is packed with historic sites and cultural experiences, and a diverse array of restaurants.
• Our comprehensive guide to visiting Berlin includes the best places to see, stay, eat, and more.
• Visit Insider's hub for travel guides, tips, and recommendations .

More than three decades after the fall of the Wall, the formerly divided Berlin has emerged as one of Europe's most dynamic, captivating capitals. With shiny new architecture constantly popping up around the city, and abandoned World War II- and Soviet-era buildings reimagined as edgy contemporary art spaces and trendy clubs, Berlin is on a steady course of reinventing itself. Even so, the German capital holds on to its wonderfully authentic, scruffy side — in its smoky, hole-in-the-wall bars, graffiti-covered streets, and anything-goes attitude.

This progressive spirit is what drew me to move from Amsterdam to Berlin in 2016 and stay for two years. Although I've since relocated to Barcelona, I come back frequently to take advantage of Berlin's vibrant culture, great bars, and diverse global dining scene.

I'm an avid museum-goer, and love exploring the city's vast array of museums — around 170 at last count — with new ones opening all the time. And when the weather is good, I enjoy strolling and picnicking in the many parks, or stopping for a Berliner Weisse (a traditional local wheat beer) at a neighborhood beer garden. 

It's also a relatively inexpensive city — especially compared to other European capitals like Paris and Amsterdam. While there are plenty of pricey five-star hotels and spendy Michelin-starred restaurants, you can just as easily find a decent, centrally located hotel room for less than 100 euros, or around $98, a night, grab a tasty traditional currywurst with fries for around 5 euros, and wash it down with a beer for under 4 euros. 

Navigating Berlin can be a bit of a challenge, whether you're a newbie or a veteran visitor like me, because of its huge size. The city is made up of 12 different kiez (neighborhoods), each with its own distinctive vibe and attractions. Fortunately, there's an excellent public transportation system to get you where you need to go. 

With Insider's guide, you'll have everything you need to plan the perfect Berlin vacation. 

→ An expert's tips on getting to Berlin and navigating the city's public transit system

→ where to stay in berlin — the 9 best hotels and accommodations, → 10 of the best restaurants in berlin where you should actually eat, → 8 unique adventures and activities to do in berlin, from street art to city parks, → important advisories for your berlin trip from a former resident.

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Berlin is the most popular city break destination in Germany and a top European destination. The German capital is holding its own excellently against international competition. After Corona, we are experiencing a noticeable recovery in Berlin tourism .

Between 2015 and 2019, Berlin was in the league of metropolises with over 30 million overnight stays in hotels and guest houses. This secured Berlin third place in Europe after London and Paris, also despite a pandemic-related drop in visitors. Through our comprehensive marketing activities, we ensure that Berlin remains one of the top city break destinations.

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14 of the best things to do in Berlin

Jul 8, 2023 • 6 min read

Experience the best of Berlin with this guide to the top things to do © Westend61 / Getty Images

For a scene-stealing combo of glamor and grit, poised to mesmerize anyone keen to connect with vibrant culture, bold architecture, global food, intense parties and an easy-going vibe, head to Berlin .

Whether your tastes run to posh or punk, you can sate them in the German capital. Here are the best experiences Berlin has to offer.

1. See the treasures of Museum Island

Berlin’s "Louvre on the Spree", this imposing cluster of five treasure-houses is an undisputed highlight of the city’s impressive landscape. Declared a Unesco World Heritage Site in 1999, Museumsinsel showcases art and cultural history from the Stone Age to the 19th century.

Feast your eyes on antiquities at at the Pergamonmuseum  and  Altes Museum , take in 19th-century art at the Alte Nationalgalerie and lean in for close-ups of medieval and Renaissance sculptures at the Bode-Museum . The  Neues Museum  is famous as the residence of the exquisite but controversial bust of Nefertiti which has been the subject of repatriation requests from Egypt for almost a century.

Planning tip:  As part of the ambitious  Museum Island Master Plan , the Pergamonmuseum will be completely closed to visitors starting October 23, 2023. The institution is not scheduled to partially reopen until spring 2027 – with some sections of the museum, including the famous  Ishtar Gate , scheduled to stay closed until 2037.

2. Follow the legacy of the Berlin Wall

Few events in history have the power to move the entire world. If you were alive and old enough for the fall of the Berlin Wall in 1989, you will probably remember the crowds of euphoric revelers cheering and dancing at the Brandenburg Gate . Although little is left of the physical barrier, its legacy lives on in the imagination and in such places as Checkpoint Charlie , the Gedenkstätte Berliner Mauer (Berlin Wall Memorial) and the East Side Gallery  with its colorful murals.

3. Party at Berlin's world-famous clubs

Berlin’s reputation for intense and unbridled nightlife is rooted in the libertine 1920s when everyone from Marlene Dietrich to Christopher Isherwood partied like it was 1999. Since the fall of the Wall, Berlin’s club culture has put the city firmly back on the map of music-lovers everywhere .

The edgiest clubs can be found in locations like power plants, abandoned apartment buildings and other repurposed locations, especially in Kreuzberg & Neukölln and Friedrichshain . Electronic music dominates at cult favourites like ://about blank , Kater Blau and Griessmühle , while Prince Charles has made a name for itself as a hip hop mecca, fetish-focused KitKatClub is a must, and the local punks mosh away at SO36 .

Planning tip: Some of Berlin's best parties are its daytime raves: here's how to hit the clubs in the afternoon .

4. Enjoy drinks outdoors

Whether its beer gardens, rooftop bars or some casual drinks in parks and by the Landwehrkanal, Berliners take a relaxed approach to drinking and socializing outdoors. While Berlin has something to offer all year round, the city in the warm weather has a special buzz around it.

5. Be dazzled by the grandeur of Schloss Charlottenburg

An exquisite baroque palace,  Schloss Charlottenburg evokes the onetime grandeur of the Prussian royals. It is particularly special to visit in the summer when you can fold a stroll, sunbathing session or picnic in the lush palace park into a day of peeking at royal treasures.

6. Book ahead to visit the Reichstag

It’s been burned, bombed, rebuilt, buttressed by the Berlin Wall, wrapped in fabric and finally turned into the modern home of the German parliament, the Reichstag  is one of Berlin’s most iconic buildings. Designed by Paul Wallot in 1894, this is where the German parliament, the Bundestag, has been hammering out its policies since 1999.

Planning tip:  Reserve online in advance  to visit the striking glass dome  for free . This is a government building and you will need to provide identification to gain access.

7. Shop and eat at Markthalle Neun

This delightful 1891 market hall was saved by dedicated locals in 2009. Not only do local and regional producers present their wares but also, on Street-Food Thursday, they're joined by aspiring or semipro chefs, who set up their stalls to serve delicious snacks from around the world. There’s even an on-site craft brewery, Heidenpeters .

8. Tour Berlin's art scene

Art aficionados will be truly spoilt for choice in Berlin. Home to hundreds of galleries, scores of world-class collections and thousands of international artists, the city has assumed a pole position on the global artistic circuit. Its main contemporary art showcase is the Hamburger Bahnhof , a vast museum housed in a former railway station whose loft and grandeur are the perfect foil for this top-notch collection of paintings, installations, sculptures and video.

Local tip:  If you’d prefer something even more Berlin-centric, try Urban Nation in Schöneberg . A relative newcomer to Berlin’s array of galleries, this street art celebration turns the concept of a museum on its head and celebrates art in a unique way.

9. Get to know Jewish history and culture at Jüdisches Museum

Berlin’s Jüdisches Museum  presents an eye-opening and emotional journey through 2000 years of Jewish history in Germany, not just the 12 years of Nazi horror that such exhibits often focus on. Find out about Jewish cultural contributions, holiday traditions, the difficult road to emancipation, outstanding individuals like the philosopher Moses Mendelssohn and jeans inventor Levi Strauss, and the fates of ordinary people and families.

10. Wander or cycle the paths of Tiergarten

Berlin’s rulers used the grounds to hunt boar and pheasants in the rambling Tiergarten until master landscape architect Peter Lenné landscaped the grounds in the 18th century. With its sweeping lawns, shaded paths, woodsy groves, romantic corners, ponds and creeks, the Tiergarten is one of the world’s largest city parks and a wonderful retreat from the city bustle.

Planning tip:  In summer, several charming beer gardens beckon, including Café am Neuen See and the Teehaus im Englischen Garten.

11. See urban renewal at Potsdamer Platz

Despite the name, Potsdamer Platz is not actually a square but an entire city quarter, forged in the 1990s from terrain once bisected by the Berlin Wall. A collaborative effort by the world's finest architects, it is considered a showcase of urban renewal.

Planning tip:  The area itself is rather compact and quickly explored – unless you stick around to see Berlin from above from the Panoramapunkt or dive into German film history at the Museum für Film und Fernsehen .

12. Pose for a photo at the historic Brandenburg Gate

Prussian emperors, Napoleon and Hitler have marched through this neoclassical royal city gate that was once trapped east of the Berlin Wall. Since 1989 Brandenburg Gate  has gone from a symbol of division and oppression to the symbol of a united Germany. The elegantly proportioned landmark is at its most atmospheric – and photogenic – at night, when light bathes its stately columns and proud Goddess of Victory sculpture in a golden glow.

13. Go shopping along Kurfürstendamm

No trip to Berlin would be complete without a saunter along Kurfürstendamm (Ku’damm for short) in Charlottenburg . Along with its continuation, the Tauentzienstrasse, it is the city’s longest and busiest shopping strip, lined with high-street chains and designer boutiques. Don’t miss the KaDeWe , continental Europe’s biggest department store with a mind-boggling food hall, or the cutting-edge concept and flagships stores at Bikini Berlin , a revamped 1950s landmark near Zoo Station.

Local tip:  Take a moment to look up. Amid all this, the majestically ruined Gedächtniskirche (Memorial Church) stands quietly as a poignant reminder of the absurdity of war.

14. Explore the exhibits of the Topographie des Terrors

In the spot where the most feared institutions of Nazi Germany (the Gestapo headquarters, the SS central command and the Reich Security Main Office) once stood, this compelling exhibit documents the stages of terror and persecution, puts a face on the perpetrators, and details the impact these brutal institutions had on all of Europe. A second exhibit outside zeroes in on how life changed for Berlin and its people after the Nazis made it their capital.

This article was first published Jan 28, 2015 and updated Jul 8, 2023.

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