The East Side Gallery, measuring approximately 1.3 kilometers in length, is one of the longest open-air galleries in the world. It holds immense significance as it features artworks that reflect the struggles and triumphs of those who lived through the Berlin Wall era. This significant landmark draws millions of visitors each year, eager to learn about its historical context while appreciating the creative expressions that adorn its walls.

Following the wall’s fall in 1989, artists were invited to transform its grim concrete barriers into a vibrant display of imagination and commentary. The contributions include a wide range of styles, from surrealistic murals to political statements. Each piece of art reflects the individual perspectives of the artists, many of whom were deeply affected by the Wall’s oppressive presence prior to its destruction.

The implications of the East Side Gallery extend beyond mere aesthetics. It acts as an educational platform, allowing visitors to reflect on the past while considering the ongoing conversations about freedom, identity, and social justice. As a popular tourist attraction, it significantly contributes to Berlin’s cultural economy, attracting people from different parts of the world who come to experience its unique blend of art and history.

Recently, the gallery has faced challenges regarding preservation and maintenance. With increasing foot traffic, some artworks have begun to deteriorate, prompting discussions about the need for restoration. Nonetheless, this has also sparked a renaissance of community engagement, with local organizations and artists joining forces to protect and revitalize the site. This rejuvenation effort reflects the community’s deep commitment to preserving the memory and message that the East Side Gallery embodies.

As the gallery continues to thrive, it will play a pivotal role in shaping Berlin’s cultural landscape. Visitors should anticipate both artistic and historical layers that are ripe for exploration. Ongoing events, discussions, and workshops conducted nearby ensure that the gallery remains a living space for dialogue and creative expression.

What is the East Side Gallery?

The East Side Gallery is a monument that encompasses a portion of the Berlin Wall, transformed into a gallery showcasing hundreds of artworks by international artists. It celebrates the city’s history and the artistic responses to its past.

Why is it significant?

This gallery signifies the triumph over division and oppression, serving as a canvas for messages of hope, peace, and unity. It also highlights the ongoing relevance of art as a means of political and social expression.

How can visitors engage with the gallery?

Visitors can explore the artworks on foot, join guided tours for deeper insights, or participate in workshops and cultural events hosted nearby, fostering a stronger connection with the site’s history and significance.

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Street Art: An Open-Air Gallery

You can’t talk about the artistic side of Berlin without mentioning street art. This city is a massive open-air gallery, with murals and tags plastered on every available surface. The East Side Gallery, a remnant of the Berlin Wall, is particularly famous for its vibrant graffiti and political messages. Here you’ll find works by artists from all over the globe, each piece vibrating with stories of freedom, hope, and the occasional cheeky jab at authority.

As you stroll along the 1.3 km stretch, keep your eyes peeled for iconic images like Dmitri Vrubel’s “My God, Help Me to Survive This Deadly Love,” depicting the kiss between Leonid Brezhnev and Erich Honecker. It’s not just a mural; it’s a conversation starter, much like the unsolicited opinions you’ll get at a family dinner.

Don’t forget to explore neighborhoods like Kreuzberg and Friedrichshain, where the walls are dripping with color and creativity. Pop into small galleries nestled between cafés showcasing up-and-coming local artists. Who knows, you might find the next Picasso, or at least a really cool print to hang over your couch.

Museums That Don’t Just Collect Dust

Berlin is home to over **170 museums**, each offering a unique glimpse into history and culture. The Museum Island, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is the crème de la crème of museum collections. Here, you can feast your eyes on the treasures of the **Pergamon Museum**, which boasts artifacts like the famous Ishtar Gate and the majestic Pergamon Altar. Be sure to wear comfortable shoes—between all that wandering and your brain processing the sheer brilliance of these pieces, you might forget to eat!

For a more modern take, venture to the Berlinische Galerie, a museum dedicated to modern art, photography, and architecture. With rotating exhibitions and a keen focus on Berlin’s art scene, you’ll find not just paintings but installations that make you scratch your head and laugh simultaneously. Seriously, one piece looks like a pile of laundry, and it’s art. Who knew?

But don’t just stick to the central museums. Small, quirky museums like the Madame Tussauds can add a sprinkle of the bizarre to your artistic journey. Here, you can pose with wax figures of famous artists and celebrities—because nothing says “I’m cultured” like a selfie with a waxy Einstein.

Theater and Performance Art: Breaking the Fourth Wall

If visual arts are the heart of Berlin, then theater is undoubtedly its spirited soul. The city is a haven for performing arts, boasting a plethora of theaters ranging from traditional operas to avant-garde performance art. Check out the **Berliner Ensemble**, founded by theater legend Bertolt Brecht. Even if you don’t understand a word of the script, the performance will leave you awestruck—and slightly confused, which is par for the course in Berlin.

For a dose of the unconventional, make your way to Volksbühne. This theater pushes boundaries and challenges norms, showcasing a mix of local and international talents. You might even catch a performance that’s intentional chaos on stage—one where the audience leaves questioning their own sanity.

And let’s not overlook the local cabaret scene. Places like **Zur Holle** offer evenings brimming with laughter and a touch of the ridiculous, showcasing everything from drag shows to improvised comedy. It’s the perfect fit for those who prefer their entertainment with a side of absurdity.

The Artistic Community: More Than Just Art

What truly makes Berlin’s art scene magical is its community. Artists thrive here, often collaborating and sharing ideas over a pint at local pubs or during the myriad of art festivals held throughout the year. Events like **Berlin Art Week** fuel the creative fire, gathering artists from different backgrounds and disciplines, making the city buzz with inspiration.

Don’t hesitate to check out local craft markets, where you can meet the artists behind the work, share stories, and perhaps even snag a unique piece for your collection. Every artwork comes with a story, and Berlin’s artists have some of the most entertaining tales. Imagine hearing about how a piece was inspired by a late-night kebab run—life imitates art, right?

Conclusion: An Artistic Adventure Awaits

Exploring the artistic side of Berlin is like diving into a colorful, unpredictable canvas that changes with every brushstroke. From the streets echoing with vibrant murals to the galleries filled with thought-provoking exhibitions, and performances that inspire giggles and gasps, this city is a haven for creative spirits.

So, pack your bags, put on your most comfortable walking shoes, and prepare yourself for a journey through the surreal, the historical, and the downright hilarious. Never underestimate the power of art, particularly when it’s interwoven with history, culture, and the lingering scent of currywurst. Berlin is waiting to paint you a masterpiece, one adventure at a time!

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Street Art: The City as an Urban Gallery

Berlin’s streets are a living, breathing gallery that showcases some of the most innovative street art globally. Here, walls tell stories, and each spray can holds the potential for social commentary. The famous East Side Gallery, a remaining segment of the Berlin Wall, transforms this historical landmark into a vibrant canvas for artists from around the world. Walking along this 1.3-kilometer stretch, you’ll encounter vibrant murals depicting peace, unity, and the enduring spirit of resistance—except that one wall piece with the giant cat. Seriously, what’s that about?

Exploring neighborhoods like Kreuzberg and Friedrichshain is a must for anyone who wants to delve deeper into the city’s street art scene. Here, you’ll find everything from whimsical characters to profound political statements. Keep an eye out for works by renowned artists like Banksy—while he often plays hard to get, his playful satire pops up in unexpected places.

Alternative Galleries: A Breath of Fresh Air

If street art is the bombastic cheerleader of Berlin’s art scene, then its alternative galleries are the quieter yet equally passionate poets tucked away in the background. One such gem is Berghain, famed for its nightclub scene, which also doubles as an innovative art space during the day. Hosting immersive installations and temporary exhibitions, it’s the perfect place to experience the meeting of art, sound, and nocturnal euphoria—though you’ll have to curtail your raving to stay on the ball for the culture.

Another must-visit spot, Motto, an independent bookstore and gallery in Kreuzberg, offers a meticulously curated selection of publications, zines, and prints that explore the fringes of contemporary thought. Meanwhile, Salon Dahlmann presents an eclectic mix of artists and styles in a beautifully renovated space. It’s the kind of place where you could sip on a cappuccino while musing over a painting that looks like it may or may not have been created by an extraterrestrial.

The Economics of Art: Fostering Free Expression

Berlin’s alternative art scene thrives on the concept of affordability. The city’s relatively low cost of living allows artists to explore their creativity without the overwhelming pressure to make a living from their work. This has resulted in a flourishing community where collaboration trumps competition, and artists often share studio spaces and resources. It’s a little like a creative commune, but without the mandatory tie-dye.

Thanks to a plethora of government-funded initiatives and independent collectives, exhibitions often remain **free** or at a low cost to the public. The city supports the exchange of ideas and fosters environment where underrepresented voices can rise and inspire. As you explore, you might stumble upon open studio events that invite the public to meet the artists and witness their creative process firsthand. Just don’t forget to ask the artists the most pressing question: “What’s your process?”—you know, the one that every artist secretly dreads but loves to answer with an air of mystery.

Festivals and Events: The Heartbeat of the Scene

If you’re getting excited about Berlin’s alternative art scene, you’re in luck; the city is brimming with festivals and events that celebrate creativity. The Berlin Art Week is one of the biggest gatherings on the calendar, showcasing art fair exhibitions, gallery openings, and everything in between. With thousands of artists, curators, and art enthusiasts flooding the streets, it’s like the Super Bowl for art lovers—minus the halftime show featuring a pop star (we assume).

Another festival not to be missed is the Gallery Weekend, where over 50 galleries across the city throw open their doors for two frenetic days of art appreciation. You’ll have the chance to meet artists, enjoy performances, and perhaps engage in thoughtful discussions over a glass of Riesling—you know, to make the deep conversations even deeper.

Don’t overlook smaller events and pop-up exhibitions, which can often be stumbled upon in unexpected venues, from former factories to abandoned warehouses. Who doesn’t love an art show in a mysterious, dimly lit location that adds a sense of intrigue and, let’s be real, Instagram-worthy aesthetics?

An Inclusive Community

Amongst the hustle and bustle of Berlin, there’s an inclusive spirit that fosters diversity and innovation. It’s not just about the art itself; it’s about the dialogue surrounding it—the ongoing conversations on identity, society, and culture. Many local artists focus on social issues, tackling themes like migration, gender identity, and political unrest. This ethos permeates through every brush stroke, spray can, and performance, creating an interconnectedness that’s palpable.

So, whether you find yourself admiring a striking mural, partaking in a four-hour conversation about the meaning of modern art, or discovering a hidden gallery in a basement, be prepared for Berlin to leave a lasting impression. The city encourages all who visit to embrace their inner creativity, reminding us that art isn’t just something to be viewed—it’s something to be experienced. In Berlin, art is alive. It thrives, breathes, and challenges norms, inviting you to jump right into the canvas with reckless abandon. Just remember to keep your phone handy; you’ll want to capture all these moments of inspiration!

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Unraveling the Night: A Brief History

You might wonder, how did Berlin become such a nightlife mecca? Well, the story goes back to its tumultuous history—specifically, the fall of the Berlin Wall in 1989. Suddenly, a city that was once divided found itself reborn, brimming with creativity and freedom. Artists, musicians, and party enthusiasts flocked to Berlin, igniting a cultural revolution. Fast forward to today, and you’ll find that this eclectic spirit still pulsates with life.

Clubbing till Sunrise: The Legendary Nightclubs

No trip to Berlin would be complete without stepping foot in its acclaimed nightclubs. Perhaps the most famous of all is Berghain, often dubbed “the Temple of Techno.” This monumental techno paradise is renowned for its marathon parties that can last well into the next day—all while maintaining an air of exclusivity. Entering Berghain can feel like a daunting rite of passage, but once inside, the euphoric beats will carry you far into the twilight hours.

If techno isn’t your jam, you might want to check out Sisyphos, another beloved venue that feels like a festival in itself. With multiple dance floors, outdoor spaces, and even a pizza place, it’s a place where you can dance, chill, and snack all night long. Sisyphos has a laid-back vibe that makes it just as easy to groove as it is to take a breather.

The Alternative Scene: Bars and Speakeasies

For those who prefer a more intimate atmosphere, Berlin is dotted with quirky bars and secret speakeasies that offer a different kind of nightlife experience. One such gem is The Gin Romany, a hidden bar that combines a retro vibe with a passion for all things gin. With an extensive menu offering over 100 different types of gin, you’re bound to find a concoction to tickle your fancy. Just be prepared to engage in light banter with the bartenders—after all, they cherish the art of conversation as much as the drink.

Another must-visit is Buck and Breck, located in a nondescript building within a courtyard. This cocktail bar focuses on craftsmanship and details, where each drink is an artisan piece. The cozy atmosphere, aided by dim lighting and a select clientele, makes it perfect for a romantic date or a night of heartfelt conversations with friends.

Culture Under the Moon: Events and Festivals

Berlin’s nightlife isn’t just confined to clubs and bars; there’s a plethora of events that showcase the city’s lively spirit. One such event is the annual **Berlin Festival of Lights** where iconic landmarks transform into mesmerizing canvases of light and art. As the sun sets, you can stroll along the East Side Gallery, take in the breathtaking illuminated displays, and snap Instagram-worthy photos that will have your friends green with envy.

In summer, the city hosts several open-air parties and festivals, such as the popular **Lollapalooza Berlin**. Picture this: you’re dancing under the stars, with your favorite bands playing live right in front of you, surrounded by fellow festival-goers who just want to enjoy the good vibes. You might even spot a celebrity or two—it is Berlin, after all!

Late-Night Eats: Fueling Your Night

All that dancing and socializing will surely work up an appetite. Fear not, for Berlin boasts an array of late-night eateries that will satisfy even the most demanding of cravings. You simply can’t miss out on a classic **Currywurst**—the city’s beloved fast food. Imagine it: a steaming sausage drenched in spicy curry ketchup, served with a side of fries. It’s a midnight snack that tastes like pure bliss.

If you’re in the mood for something more substantial, head to **Kreuzberg** for a kebab at Mustafa’s Gemüse Kebap. This spot is famous for its long lines, but trust us, the wait is worth it. Their succulent kebabs, loaded with crispy vegetables and tantalizing sauces, will have you singing praises long after the last bite.

The Sound of Berlin: Musical Diversity

As the night progresses, it’s not just the dance beats that fill the air—Berlin is a musical hub offering a spectrum of genres that cater to all tastes. From local indie bands to pulsating electronica, the city has venues that host live music almost every night of the week. Places like Auster Club and .HBC offer intimate settings for up-and-coming artists, while larger venues like the **Mercedes-Benz Arena** host international acts.

The beauty of Berlin’s music scene lies in its perpetual evolution. You can easily find your next favorite band while exploring the vibrant neighborhoods, making every outing a potential musical discovery.

Final Thoughts: Embrace the Berlin Nightlife

Berlin’s nightlife is a reflection of the city itself—diverse, eclectic, and brimming with life. Whether you’re swaying to techno beats, sipping handcrafted cocktails, or celebrating under the festival lights, there’s something incredibly enriching about experiencing the city after dark. So, dress up, let loose, and dive into the vibrant, quirky, and mesmerizing world that is Berlin’s nightlife. You’ll find that when the sun sets, the city truly comes alive!

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No matter where you are, you can always find something unique and memorable to do or see for absolutely no money. This is particularly true when it comes to Berlin, where you don’t even have to search for fun and free activities – they come to you themselves. Anyway, here are a few ways to enjoy Berlin without spending a penny.

Visit Viktoriapark

Crowning the neighborhood of Kreuzberg, this hilltop park is great for a lunchtime picnic accompanied by a view over the city. As well as relaxing or playing sports amid the greenery, you can also enjoy some curious sculptures and an artificial waterfall in summer.

At the top of Viktoriapark – tian2992/Flickr

Visit the Memorial to the Murdered Jews of Europe

Just south of the Brandenburg Gate are the 2,711 concrete slabs that make up the Holocaust Memorial, which – with its grey color and grid-like but undulating layout – brings a strange feeling of loneliness and disorientation. The haunting experience of walking through this quite abstract and unusual memorial leaves space for you to reflect on the unimaginable horror of the Holocaust. That’s why it’s one of the most important places to visit if you want to really understand Berlin.

The memorial at night – Wikipedia

Visit a flea market

Suggesting shopping as a ‘free thing to do’ is an absurdity, I know. That said, browsing is always free. The biggest appeal of Berlin’s flea markets is their atmosphere, with all kinds of arts and crafts that you can admire without buying. While you’re browsing, you’ll almost certainly see some weird and wacky things you never even knew existed. Some of the best places to do this include the flea market at Bode Museum (every Saturday and Sunday from 11 am to 5 pm), where you can find a great selection of antique books; Antikmarkt (Sunday – 8 am-4 pm), with lots of jewelry, art, and vinyl; and Mauerpark, where every Sunday you can also take part in the famous karaoke in the arena.

Discover the street art

If there is one city in the world where discovering the street art should be a priority, it’s Berlin. Eye-catching graffiti pops up everywhere; thought-provoking pieces by some of the world’s most famous street artists lurk around every corner, especially in the trendy neighborhood of Kreuzberg. And then, of course, there’s the East Side Gallery: the longest open-air gallery in the world, painted on remnants of the Berlin Wall.

“Pneumohumanoides” by Jens-Helge Dahmen on the East Side Gallery – Andy Hay/Flickr

Visit the dome of the Reichstag building

Book in advance and get a good view of the city from the rooftop terrace and the glass dome of the Bundestag. The building is open every day from 8 am until midnight, and groups of visitors are admitted every 15 minutes – the last session beginning at 9.45 pm. Your admission includes an audio guide, so you can enjoy some history to accompany the great views.

Inside the dome – Susanne Nilsson/Flickr

Get active at Tempelhof

What was once an iconic pre-war airport is now one of the biggest urban parks in Berlin; a historic site where you can go biking, walking, skateboarding or practice any other type of sport. Alternatively, if you feel like just lazying around, find a spot on the grass and enjoy some German beer and bratwurst. It’s not uncommon, especially in the summer, for Templehof to host an array of concurrent events. Regardless of what’s on, you owe it to yourself to visit this unusual park. After all, it’s not often you get the chance to walk down an airport runway, is it?

Nothing beats the sight of an abandoned airport – K.H.Reichert/Flickr

Visit the Museum of Unheard of Things

The oddest objects – and the even odder stories behind them – turn this tiny museum into an hour-long escape from reality, where you’ll be immersed in a world of wild imagination conceived by its creator: artist Roland Albrecht. All of these objects – small or large, everyday or special – have their own personality and make this museum a one-of-a-kind experience. Opening hours, tickets and other information about the Museum of Unheard Things here.

Pinning this post doesn’t cost a penny either, so you might as well just do it now. Who knows when you’ll find yourself in the center of Berlin with no money? 

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Here are the most important attractions in Berlin to create your own itinerary:

Berlin Wall (Berliner Mauer) – Stretches of the wall are still preserved to remind about the past that should never repeat. Part of the wall can be seen at Potsdamer Platz, while close to Spree River, in its eastern part, the wall is painted by modern artists expressing different messages. This section of it is known as the Gallery.

Checkpoint Charlie Museum (Mauermuseum) – The museum documents the events that led to the construction and the fall of the Berlin Wall and the attempts of the citizens of Berlin to cross it. Nowadays you can walk freely through the zone where in the past those who tried to cross the border were executed and reconsider the meaning of the term freedom. The museum is open every day (even during the holidays) from 9 a.m. until 10 p.m. The entrance fee is EUR 12.50.

Reichstag building – The parliament, or the Bundestag, holds its sitting here. The dome of the building offers a beautiful view to the city, while inside, behind the glass walls, you will see a photo exhibition dedicated to the history of the Reichstag.

Potsdamer Platz – This is one of the most popular squares in the central part of Berlin. It is named after the city of Potsdam, located close to the capital. Until 1989 the Berlin Wall used to pass through the square but after its fall many new buildings were constructed at this place. Nowadays the square is known for its theatres, cinemas, modern trade buildings and skyscrapers.

Postadamer Platz in Berlin

Kollhoff-Tower – This is one of the skyscrapers at Potsdamer Platz, offering a wonderful view to Berlin from its panoramic balconies – the Panoramapunkt, located on the 24th and 25th floors. You will reach them with the fastest elevator in Europe, which moves at 9 m/s. Once up there you can enjoy the incredible view with a cocktail in your hand.

Brandenburg Gate – Its image is probably the first thing that pops up in your mind when you think of Berlin. The gate was built in 1788 as the official entrance to the city. On its top there is sculpture of a chariot drawn by four horses, ridden by Victoria, the goddess of victory. The monument is really impressive during the night when it is brilliantly lit up.

TV Tower (Fernsehturm) – On a clear day here you can enjoy a magnificent view to Berlin stretching over 40 km. You should better visit it early in the morning or late in the evening as during the rest of the day the queue of visitors waiting for the elevator leading to the top of the tower gets very long.

Unter den Linden Boulevard – Literally the name of the boulevard means Under the Linden Trees due to the fact that the branches form a tunnel over the pedestrian zone, filling the air along the entire boulevard with the sweet scent of the linden trees – a nice natural idyll amidst the urban environment. The boulevard leads to the Brandenburg Gate and crosses Spree River close to the Berlin Cathedral.

Berlin Cathedral – Its dome is 114 m high and it is adorned with stained glasses with flower patterns. You can go up there and feast your eyes on the splendid view to Berlin. The Baroque interior of the cathedral is really impressive. Inside you can also see a huge organ. In front of the cathedral there is a garden with a fountain where you can have a rest.

The Berlin Cathedral

Alexanderplatz – Be a real Berliner and schedule a meeting in front of the fountain or under the clock at this square. The TV Tower is here, too. The clock shows the time in each time zone in the world. It has a specific construction and does not look like an ordinary clock. Under the World Time Clock you can see a model of the Solar System. It was built in 1969. At the Alexanderplatz square, you can also find modern trade centers, stores, cafes and restaurants.

Charlottenburg Palace – This is the biggest palace in Berlin. It was built in the XVII century by Frederick I of Prussia as a summer residence of his wife Sophie Charlotte. Inside, in the huge ballrooms and halls you will see furniture, paintings, and porcelain collections that belonged to the royal family. Don’t miss to take a walk in the big garden.

Museum Island (Museumsinsel) – After you cross the bridge over Spree River you will find yourself on this small island in the central part of Berlin. There are several museums here, as well as the Berlin Cathedral and beautiful parks where you can have a rest after the long museum tour.

Old Museum (Altes Museum) – This is one of the museums on the Island. It houses an art collection of the Prussian royal family. The building is designed in neoclassical style by architect Karl Friedrich Schinkel. His inspiration for the building came from the ancient and classical Greek architecture.

Natural History Museum (Museum für Naturkunde) – Dinosaurs, fossils, glass vessels storing thousands of fish species. Here you can learn about different stuffing and storing methods, see an exhibition dedicated to the universe and the Solar System, and get detailed information about our planet. You will be really impressed yet in the very first hall of the museum, which presents three huge dinosaur skeletons. There are also models of the planets, as well as of the Earth’s crust.

Trabi-Safari – The emblematic Trabant car has not disappeared from the streets of Berlin, just on contrary, it became a fascinating means of transport that you can rent for the day. A trip through Berlin in a classic Trabant car, painted in pink, tiger prints, or any other funny color – a really exotic experience, indeed!

Trabant in Berlin

Musical Instrument Museum (Musikinstrumenten Museum) – Here you can examine more than 3,500 instruments from the XVI century onward. In addition, you can also listen to the music produced by many of them on audio records, which are available as part of the exhibitions.

Tiergarten – This is the biggest park in Berlin. The Berlin Zoo is sheltered here, as well as the President’s residence, the Potsdamer Platz, and the Victory Column. It is a perfect place for a picnic, to go jogging or roller-skating, or simply take a walk amidst the fresh greenery, flower paths and beautiful fountains.

Berlin Zoo (Zoologischer Garten Berlin) – This is one of the biggest zoos in the world with around 15,000 different species! Giraffes, elephants, pandas, hippopotami, giant turtles, lions, and whatnot… You can even touch some, like the penguins, for instance. The zoo opened doors back in 1844, which titled it the oldest zoo in Germany.

Jewish Museum – It traces the history of the Jews in Germany from the mid-centuries onward, in a very interesting way. Interactive screens, games teaching curious facts, small drawers hiding traditional or religious items, such as photos, paintings, pieces of art and of the everyday life, films and audio presentations. The building of the museum is a real masterpiece of the architecture with its unusual zigzag forms.

Gendarmenmarkt Square – Here you can find the German Cathedral (Deutscher Dom), the French Cathedral (Franzosischer Dom), and the Concert Hall (Konzerthaus), which form the architectural face of the square. At the German Cathedral you can learn much about the German democracy, while at the French Cathedral you will get acquainted with the Huguenots, who sought asylum in Berlin. The Concert Hall is the home of Berlin’s symphony orchestra. It was built at the place of the former National Theatre, which was destroyed during the war.

Hackesche Höfe – A complex of eight restored German buildings and their adjacent courtyards that are interconnected. Nowadays they are modernized and have turned into a center of fun and culture, as well as of residential and business premises. Hackesche Höfe shelters many entertainment and catering establishments, stores, restaurants, cinemas, galleries, residential and business institutions.

Victory Column (Siegessäule) – The monument is located at the Tiergarten Park. It is 67 m high and has a golden statue on its top, which is called the “golden angel”. Well, it is not exactly an angel but yet it has big golden winds. The statue weights 35 tons. Up at the top there is an observation deck, which you can reach following tens of stairs and then enjoy the splendid view to Tiergarten.

Red City Hall (Rotes Rathaus) – This building’s name is inspired by the red bricks it is made of. On the top of its clock tower there is pole waving Berlin s flag with the bear, which is a symbol of the city. In front of the entrance to the City Hall you will see the Neptune Fountain.

Sip Gluhwein Chritsmas punch – Want to warm yourself up while walking in the snow? When in Berlin in December you should not miss trying this traditional drink, which is offered everywhere along the festively decorated streets and markets. Red wine, rum, orange juice, clove, cinnamon and black tea – this mixture will leave a sweet Christmas scent in your memory.

Stollen – This traditional German fruit bread is seen everywhere in Berlin at Christmas time! It reminds about Easter cake but it is much richer in fruits, buts and fragrant spices.

Leberknödel soup (Leberködelsuppe) – This is one of the most popular soups in Germany – clear calf bouillon with calf s liver noodles. Hurry up and don t let it cool!

Nightlife in Berlin – Mitte and Prenzlauer Berg quarters offer the best night fun places. Bergmannstrasse Street in Kreuzberg is full of clubs, bars and discotheques. Here you will find the popular Yorckschlösschen jazz and blues club. More beach bars, restaurants and clubs are found along the Spree River, offering not only entertainment and fun but also nice views to the river scenery.

The design, the 3D visualization – are very important in many ways. The designers are creators.

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