Berlin, Beyond The War

Berlin is the capital city of Germany, built around thehours wandering around its many shops, bars, cafes
River Spree. Much of the city was destroyed duringand entertainment areas. There are many art galleries
World War II, however since that time it has undergonethroughout the city which are home to the sculptures
the largest construction project in Europe and it is nowand paintings of world-renowned artists such as Van
a restored, thriving and modern city. It is possible to findGogh, Picasso and Cezanne.
architectural remains of days past next to newYou can join a number of walking or bus tours that will
modern buildings. It is a tourism center and offers manytake you throughout the city. This is an excellent way
attractions in the way of museums, events, festivalsto see the most important historical and cultural sights
and landmarks.of Berlin. If you know where you want to go, you can
Since the Berlin Wall was dismantled in 1989, the citytravel around by bus, tram or train. You can also rent
has seen another wave of rejuvenation. Make sure tobicycles and these are an excellent way to travel
visit the remnants of the wall that are still standing.around the city. If you are looking for a place to relax,
Particularly visit the area known as Checkpoint CharlieBerlin's Tiergarten is a stunning choice. It is a 630 acre
which was the only place that foreigners could crossgreen park in the middle of the bustling city. Here you
from East to West Berlin. Brandenburg Gate, thewill find many gardens with beautiful trees and flowers,
Holocaust Memorial, the Egyptian Museum, the Jewishas well as cafes and a beer garden. The World's
Museum and the Keiser-Wilhelm Memorial are allGarden is also interesting and beautiful with its themed
museums that you should make an effort not to missgardens the Chinese Garden, the Korean Garden, the
out on. If you visit Museum Island, you will find fiveBali Garden/ Glasshouse, the Oriental Garden and the
famous museums including, the Old Museum, the NewJapanese Garden.
Museum, the Old National Gallery, the Bode MuseumAfter the end of the Cold War, Berlin saw a boom in
and the Pergamon Museum. The tallest structure inthe construction of hotels. As such, it is possible to find
Berlin, the Fernsehturm Television Tower, has avery well priced accommodation options, even in the
revolving restaurant at the top that will give you anfive star-hotel category. Still more hotels are being
excellent view of the city. The Reichstag, the oldplanned particularly in the area surrounding the new
German parliament, will also give you an excellent viewtrain station. Other accommodation options include
of the city of Berlin if you climb into its large glassyouth hostels for members, regular hostels, bed and
dome. The Potsdamer Platz is one of the busiestbreakfasts and pensions (boarding houses).
squares in Europe and you can spend a number of