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My First Time in Berlin
Hard to believe, but true: While many have already made a trip to Berlin in school days or now even live there, it has actually never taken me to Berlin before my trip. There is no real reason for that, I would say: It just didn’t happen.
But now I was finally in Berlin and I have to say: This city really has something special about it. I had the feeling that there was a different atmosphere there. People seemed freer, more uncomplicated, but maybe that was just the big city flair.
I definitely liked it a lot. It’s different from what I’m used to, but especially in terms of German history and also German culture, Berlin of course has a lot to offer.
The Brandenburg Gate
Let’s start with the classic, of course: the Brandenburg Gate. My mother and I have of course gone there immediately after arrival. But it is also simply part of a trip to Berlin!
I also love the special symbolic power of the Brandenburg Gate. With the fall of the Berlin Wall in 1989, it became the symbol of reunification. For me as a student of history, of course, a highlight.
Berlin Wall (East Side Gallery)
Speaking of highlights for (German) history students: the Berlin Wall. The former wall stretches over 1.3 km and is the longest remaining section of the wall. Today, the memorial is known as the East Side Gallery.
After reunification, artists transformed the dreary wall into a canvas for paintings that stand for freedom and reconciliation. Especially popular is the picture of the breaking Trabant or also the “Brother’s Kiss”.
Today, the East Side Gallery is a listed building.
The Government District
A visit to the political center of Berlin is definitely also part of the “first time Berlin”.
In the government district you will find, next to the historic Reichstag building, also the Federal Chancellery. From there, by the way, it is not so far to the Brandenburg Gate (about 15 minutes walk).
The district is also home to the famous Museum Island. There are numerous collections on the history of art and culture of Europe and the Mediterranean region.
I would have loved to see some exhibition there, but unfortunately it did not work out. Then in any case the next visit!
By the way, the Spree flows through the government district. Here you can make super boat trips.
A Boat Trip Through Berlin
And that’s what we promptly did! Spontaneously, we booked a tour by boat through Berlin. Here we could look at the government district including the Museum Island and the TV Tower and much more from a whole new perspective.
In addition, the boat driver gave us many exciting backgrounds and insights into the individual sights. Highly recommended for all who want to get an overview of the city.
The KaDeWe – Department Store of the West
In the KaDeWe we have, shortly before we went home again, also made a short detour. The department store is quite steeped in history and has now established itself as a well-known attraction of Berlin.
Opened as early as 1907, the department store nowadays forms the largest department store on the European mainland with a sales area of 60,000 square meters. However, it not only has an impressive tradition and history, but you can also shop there pretty well!
Two Food Spots in Berlin That Are To Be Recommended
Beets & Roots
If you like salads, bowls or wraps, this is the place for you. The restaurant is located several times in Berlin and stands for healthy and sustainable food. We liked it very much there.
What do you fancy love
Most people will probably already know it from Instagram or have heard it somewhere: “What do you fancy love” is a small, hip café. It’s a particularly good place to have breakfast.
From avocado bagels to granola, they have everything the “hipster heart” desires. I had accidentally discovered that it was very close to our hotel. Definitely a very tasty breakfast spot.
Conclusion of the Berlin Trip
Berlin is a must-see! It has so much history, tradition and culture to offer. I will definitely come back again, because I have by no means seen everything.
On the list are, among others, the Holocaust Memorial (absolutely!), DDR Museum, the Museum Island and much more.
Berlin is also a great place for restaurants and cafés, especially when it comes to vegan/vegetarian and healthy food.
You are crazy my child, you must go to Berlin. (Franz von Suppé)
