Endless Holiday

Berlin is a melting pot of history, architecture, entertainment, culture, and history. If you’re headed there– or even thinking about it– consider this quick list of tips and recommendations:

The Berlin Wall and Brandenburg Gate

Constructed in 1961, this symbol of the cold war era closed the borders between East and West Germany overnight. Removed 28 years later, the area is now best known for Berlin’s 18th-century Brandenburg Gate, which stands as a symbol of democracy, freedom, and reunification.

View Berlin’s Largest Church

The Cathedral of Berlin, the Protestant Church of Germany’s center is an impressive neo-Renaissance Reichstag, and the seat of the German parliament until 1918. Also called The Berliner Dom, this spectacular structure stands as a symbol of Berlin’s history, architecture, culture, and human resilience.

Artistic German Architecture

The Berlin Zoo

Adults and children alike love the Berlin Zoo, which boasts thousands of animals from sea lions to giraffes. Surrounded by lakes– and paddle boats to go with them– and adjacent to the famous Mauerpark flea market, this location is a win-win for everyone.

Visit The Cafe Einstein

The Cafe Einstein is a Berlin landmark, and one of the city’s premier coffeehouses. This restaurant transports patrons back in time to old-world Europe. Complete with waiters in crisp black and white uniforms, polished parquet floors, and floor to ceiling curtains, the white tablecloth establishment resembles a 1930s Vienna coffeehouse. Outdoor seating is available in the establishment’s beautiful garden patio when the weather allows. The Cafe Einstein serves classic Austrian fare and is best known for its signature dish: a generous size portion of schnitzel.

Weather

Berline weather is very unpredictable, and it can rain virtually ant month, so plan accordingly. April and May are Spring months which bring a full bloom of fruits and flowers. Expect sunny skies and great traveling and sightseeing weather from May to September. These months are also perfect for sports enthusiasts. November to early March is the cold season, when temperatures frequently dip below freezing.

Local Customs

Locals greet each other with a handshake and a Guten Tag. Auf Wiedersehen and a wave usually does the trick for goodbye. When visiting someone’s home for the first time, bring flowers. Avoid smoking in public areas, and dress appropriately for occasions such as opera, theater, and fine dining restaurants. Social functions almost always call for formal wear, but all other times, casual dress is appropriate.