A Love Letter to Berlin: My Journey through the Heart of Germany

Berlin, Germany's vibrant capital, wears many hats: it is an emblem of resilience, a canvas of artistic ingenuity, a foodie's paradise, and a testament to historical evolution. Over the course of my travels, few cities have resonated with me as profoundly as Berlin. Here, I've outlined some of the awe-inspiring places I've visited, which I hope will serve as a guide for fellow wanderlust souls.

Brandenburg Gate: A must-see monument, the Brandenburg Gate embodies Berlin's historic past and optimistic future. Majestic in its stature, this neoclassical marvel is best visited at dusk when it's beautifully lit, and the nearby Pariser Platz is buzzing with life.
Museum Island: This UNESCO World Heritage site, nestled in the heart of the city, is a dream come true for culture vultures. With five museums showcasing a plethora of artefacts from across the globe, it's hard not to be in awe of our shared human legacy. The Pergamon and Neues museums were particular highlights.
East Side Gallery: Here, the remnants of the Berlin Wall morph into an open-air gallery, a testament to the city's indomitable spirit and artistic prowess. A stroll along the Spree River, with the Wall's colourful, poignant murals for company, is an experience that tugs at your heartstrings.
Alexanderplatz: This bustling public square in the Mitte district encapsulates Berlin's urban charm. With a variety of shops, restaurants, and iconic landmarks like the World Time Clock and the TV Tower offering panoramic city views, Alexanderplatz is a pulsating hub of activity.
Berlin Cathedral (Berliner Dom): This stunning cathedral's impressive façade is rivalled only by its intricately beautiful interior. Climbing up to the dome provides a breathtaking vista of Museum Island and beyond.
Checkpoint Charlie: Once a significant crossing point during the Cold War, Checkpoint Charlie serves as a potent symbol of the city's divided past. The adjoining Haus am Checkpoint Charlie museum provides insightful context.
The Holocaust Memorial: The somber, stelae-filled Memorial to the Murdered Jews of Europe is a poignant tribute that demands reflection on a dark chapter of history. The adjacent information centre provides a deeper understanding of the Holocaust's horrifying extent.
Charlottenburg Palace: A short journey from the city center takes you to the city's largest palace. The opulent Baroque and Rococo interiors of the palace are exquisite, but it's the sprawling, lush palace gardens that are truly captivating.
Tempelhofer Feld: Once an airport, this expansive space has been ingeniously repurposed into a public park. With its wide-open spaces, Tempelhofer Feld is perfect for picnics, cycling, or simply soaking up the city's vibrant energy.
Berlin's Food Scene: While not a single location, Berlin's culinary landscape merits a mention. From traditional bratwurst and currywurst to international cuisine, vegan eateries, and the infamous Berliner donuts, there's something to satiate every palate. Don't miss out on the bustling food markets like Markthalle Neun!

Berlin is a city that thrives on its contrasts: the old with the new, the somber with the vibrant, the historic with the hip. While these are some highlights from my journey, the city is teeming with hidden gems waiting to be discovered. So pack your bags and let Berlin surprise you – it's a journey well worth taking.