Make the most of your holiday overseas with our guide to the top 5 things to do in Berlin , a sprawling, modern city with a fascinating history. We’ll help you enjoy the best the world has to offer.

1. The Berlin Wall

Your first stop must surely be the remains of the Berlin Wall. Demolished in 1989, no greater symbol exists in modern Europe of a divided nation and the Cold War era. Initially 100 miles long, less than half a mile now remains of the wall that divided ‘communist’ east from ‘democratic’ west Germany. By taking a walk around the city you can still see sections of the wall and the watchtowers.

2. The Holocaust Memorial

For many, this controversial memorial is a ‘must do’ when visiting Berlin. It seems important to try and acknowledge some of the atrocities of the past and this is certainly a good place to start. This is a place for remembrance of the six million Jews who perished. There is also an information centre where many personal stories are told.

3. Brandenburger Tor

Probably Berlin’s most famous landmark, the Brandenberg Gate, represents both the separation and reunification of this city. Consisting of twelve Doric columns, the gate is consistent with Berlin’s history of architectural classicism. The gate survived the Second World War and has been the focal point of many significant historical events. In 1994 U.S. President Bill Clinton spoke at the Gate about peace in post-Cold War Europe.

4. Schloss Charlottenberg

Built in the 17th century, the palace and gardens of the Charlottenberg Palace are now a major visitor attraction. Badly damaged during the Second World War, the palace has since been completely restored. In the main palace, both the Old Palace and the New Wing are open to the public. The formal and informal gardens are freely open to the public with a restaurant and cafe in the former Orangery.

5. Zoologisher Garten

Berlin Zoo is the oldest zoo in Germany and lies in the heart of the city. With the largest number of species in the world, this zoo aims to educate and entertain. Covering 160 hectares, there is also an aquarium on site – so do give yourself enough time to see it all!

Wherever your Berlin adventures take you, make sure you have Europe travel insurance – then you can just relax and enjoy the energy in this great city.

This entry was posted on Monday, May 31st, 2010 at 7:46 am and is filed under Guides. You can follow any responses to this entry through the RSS 2.0 feed. You can leave a response, or trackback from your own site.