Berlin population. Open left menu Berlin. Berlin capital of the German Empire

There are two main versions of the origin of the name: according to the first, Berlin came from the German “Bär” - “bear”, and according to the second - from the Slavic “berl”, which is translated as “swamp”.

Another version was found, somewhat close to the “swamp”: Berlin is a distorted name of the ancient city of the Polabian Slavs, founded in the 1st millennium BC, translated as “dam” (burlin).

In my opinion, the coat of arms of Berlin itself silently demonstrates which of these options, but this is a personal opinion.

“Berlin is named in Slavic,” says Zadornov. - “Berlin” is a “BERLOZHE place.” The Germans took me and said: “Here are the Slavic temples and Yarilo (Sventovit).” And Sventovit is our Slavic god.”

Long before Berlin

Long before the first mention in documents, the history of Berlin begins. Evidence of this ancient phase of settlement of the region is on display in Berlin's Museum of Prehistory and Early History, as well as in the historical reconstruction of the museum village of Düppel, where medieval crafts are also on display.

Archaeologists have discovered items made of flint and bone, the age of which indicates the presence of human settlements in the Berlin region 60 thousand years BC. About 18 thousand years ago, as a result of melting glaciers, water formed the Berlin Valley, along which the Spree River ran.

In the fourth millennium BC, farmers and herders lived in the Berlin Valley, and ceramics existed. From the 6th century BC. e. the territory was inhabited mainly by the Semnonians (one of the branches of the Suevi) and the Burgundians.

In the 4th and 5th centuries BC. e. Most of the tribes left their territories of residence on the Havel and Spree, heading towards the Upper Rhine in Swabia. The population declined, but not for long. In the 6th century, Slavic tribes rushed to this direction, and around 720 they appeared on the territory of present-day Berlin. They populated old Germanic settlements and settled in previously uninhabited territories.

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The Slavic period of Berlin's history ends in 1157 with the founding of the Brandenburg Mark by Albrecht the Bear. They went to war against the Slavs, and after several unsuccessful attempts they were defeated. The first villages on the territory of what is now Greater Berlin appeared on the new lands of Teltow, annexed to the mark by the Ascanian margraves, skillful politicians who wisely used the opportunities of the international spiritual order of the Cistercians from the Lenin monastery (here are those times! - Ilyich, what are you?) and the Knights Templar from the commander of Tempelhof.

Founding of Berlin

The settlement arose in the dry areas of the marshy valley between Teltow and Barnim at the ford across the Spree River. Old Berlin is located on the right bank of the river, and opposite on the island of Spreeinsel is Cologne. The first mentions of settlements on the territory of modern Berlin date back to this time: 1197 - Spandau, 1209 - Köpenick, 1237 - Cologne and 1244 - Berlin. Spandau and Köpenick are former Slavic settlements.

Embankment of the Spree River now

Letters with the oldest mentions of Cologne dated 01/01/01 and Berlin dated 01/01/01 are in the Museum of the Brandenburg an der Havel Cathedral. Spandau received city rights in 1232, around the same time Berlin became a city. In 1307, Berlin and Cologne united. The economic growth of the double city was supported by the folding law granted to Berlin-Cologne by the co-rulers-margraves Otto III and Johann I in relation to Spandau and Köpenick and forcing merchants from these cities passing through the city to offer their goods for sale for a certain time.

During archaeological excavations carried out over the years on Breite Strasse in Berlin's Mitte district, a wooden beam dating back to approximately 1171 was discovered. In 2007, during excavations at Petrikirchplatz in the former Cologne, an oak beam was discovered in the basement, dendrological analysis of which showed that the tree was cut down in 1212.

Germany is one of the leading countries of the modern European Union. Its economic power and political stability have a significant impact on the life of not only the Old World, but also other states of our densely populated world. This is largely explained by the mentality of the Germans themselves and, naturally, the population of Berlin also plays a significant role in this matter. This multifaceted city in all respects deserves our closest attention. And therefore, this article will tell as much as possible about the population of Berlin.

general information

The capital of Germany is the absolute leader of the country in terms of area and number of people living. In addition, Berlin, whose population as of 2015 was 3,496,293 people, ranks second in the EU in terms of this indicator and fifth in terms of its territorial size. Rivers such as the Spree and Havel flow through the city. The settlement is considered one of the world's cultural centers, as well as the largest transport hub, from which you can easily get not only to any point in Europe, but also to other continents.

Historical reference

The founding date of the city is already very distant from us, 1307. Initially, a merger of a couple of cities took place - Cologne and Berlin. In honor of this, a common municipal town hall was erected. And from 1415 to 1918, Berlin was the capital of the Hohenzollerns.

In 1933, after the fascist Hitler came to power, the city became the center of the Third Reich. However, after the crushing defeat of the Nazis in World War II, the capital was divided into four sectors, one of which long belonged to the Soviet Union (GDR). The population (of Germany), in turn, was subordinate to the leaders of capitalist countries. During the Cold War, the Federal Republic of Germany became an exemplary settlement, while in the GDR the rebellion was suppressed and people lived in constant fear. The merger of the Federal Republic of Germany and the German Democratic Republic took place only in 1990 after the fall of the so-called

Administrative Features

The population of Berlin lives in twelve administrative districts, which are divided into 95 districts. Each district has its own personal identification number, consisting of four digits. In addition, the German capital is further divided into statistical territories with three-digit numbers, which are, in fact, ordinary residential areas familiar to us.

Ethnic composition

The population of Berlin, as of January 1, 2016, is about 3,326,002 people. At the same time, the number of female residents exceeds the male population. The average age of a city dweller is 41.3 years. About half of the people in the capital do not have their own family, and some of those who are still officially married prefer, for a number of reasons, to live separately from their legal halves. In Berlin society, it is not considered something reprehensible or wrong to live with a stranger in order to spend less money on rent and utilities.

Representatives of 185 countries of our planet live in Berlin. Moreover, foreigners make up 14% of the capital’s total population. For example, about 119 thousand immigrants from Turkey live in the city, while the number of Poles is 36 thousand. As a matter of fact, the Turkish diaspora in Berlin is the largest of all foreign representatives. 60% of Berlin's Turks are German citizens living compactly in an area called Kreuzberg. Russian-speaking citizens make up 30% of all people living in the districts of Marzahn and Hellersdorf. Also, the heirs of the first waves of emigration from the former Soviet Union settled in Charlottenburg and Wilmersdorf, two districts located in old West Berlin.

Representatives of creative professions and the elite live in areas called Mitte and Prenzlauer Berg. Spandau is considered the industrial center of the capital, where such giants as Siemens, Osram, and BMW are located. A fairly large number of Berlin's population live in the most expensive area of ​​the capital, called Grunewald. In fact, this is a huge private sector located within the city and in contact with Kurfürstendamm street.

The main visitors to numerous bakeries and cafes are older people - pensioners. Also, this age category is covered by home insurance or in specially created nursing homes. At the same time, these organizations are in constant competition with each other and strive to improve their service. Each employee of any such structure is very polite and courteous with the client and values ​​​​the reputation of his company.

Attitude to religion

The majority of the population of Berlin (about 60%) adheres to atheistic views regarding the existence of God. 22% consider themselves evangelical Christians, 9% are Catholic, and 6% are Muslim. There are four Orthodox churches in the capital.

Conclusion

Today, to accurately answer the question: “What is the population of Berlin?” extremely difficult. This is largely due to the enormous influx of refugees from Syria, who literally flooded not only the capital, but also many other cities in Germany. The demographic situation in Berlin also leaves much to be desired because this city, despite all its economic power, is a dying city, as can be judged by regularly updated statistics.

Berlin is the capital of modern Germany, one of the largest cities in Europe. This is a modern city - a constantly renewed, fashionable European center.
Berlin is located in the heart of Brandeburg, on the banks of the Havel River and the Spree River. The main language is German, English is widespread.
This is a city with an unusual and complex history. It acquired city rights in 1244, was the capital of the Margraviate of Brandenburg, and then the capital of the German Empire. Survived the division into two parts - the GDR and the Federal Republic of Germany, and was united in 1990.
Today it is a densely populated, important cultural, industrial and scientific center. Berlin has preserved many historical monuments and attractions.
Holidays in Berlin are perfect for lovers of historically important places, young people and married couples.

Climate and weather

The temperate climate zone gives Berlin mild summers and moderately cool winters. Spring and autumn have distinct seasonal expressions. The average daily temperature in winter is + 2 °C, which is 2-3 °C higher than in nearby cities. During the hottest summer months, July and August, the average daily temperature is about + 19 °C.
The most comfortable time to travel to Berlin starts from the end of April and lasts until the beginning of October.

Nature

The historical part of the city is located in the floodplain of the Spree River, in a lowland, between the hills. The modern part is located on the hills.
The city is decorated with many flowers, trees and shrubs. You can often meet squirrels, hares, hedgehogs, and sometimes you may be lucky enough to see a pheasant or a fox.

Attractions

The undoubted and main attraction of Berlin is the Berlin Wall. For almost 30 years, this gloomy building separated the communist east of Berlin from the capitalist west of Berlin. The wall was destroyed in 1989. Now the remains of it are a reminder of those years, as well as a place that attracts many tourists. The East Side Gallery preserves 1,200 meters of walls painted by artists from all over the world. On Bernauerstrasse there are fragments of the Berlin Wall with small holes that were cut on the night of November 10, 1989.
The history of the city will be told to you in the Documentation Center, where hundreds of documents, video archives and photographs about Berlin are located.

Of particular note is the Chapel of Reconciliation, which was erected in honor of the 200 people who died trying to escape through the Berlin Wall. The Checkpoint Charlie Museum is dedicated to these same events and the wall itself.
It is worth visiting Alexander I Square (Alexanderplatz). It contains the center of East Berlin, the Kaufhof department store and the Stadt Berlin hotel. Not far from it stands the 368-meter television tower, the tallest building in Berlin. At an altitude of 203 meters above the ground there is an observation deck, and even higher there is a revolving restaurant.

Undoubtedly, one of the main attractions of the city is the Reichstag. The windows of the Reichstag offer a picturesque view of the city. Nowadays, parliament meetings are held here again.
The Brandenburg Gate is a unique symbol of Berlin. The gate is decorated with a sculptural group, headed by the goddess of victory Victoria. It was from here that the construction of the Berlin Wall began.
The Egyptian Museum is one of the most visited museums in Berlin by tourists. It houses ancient works of the Egyptians, sarcophagi, papyrus and even mummies found as a result of excavations. The most famous exhibit at the exhibition is a bust of Nefertiti, which is about 3,000 years old.

Nutrition

Oddly enough, finding a restaurant in Berlin that serves national dishes is quite difficult. As a rule, national cuisine is served in bars and pubs. Here you can drink famous German beer and taste excellent meat dishes. Tourists are recommended to order Klops meatballs and the special Kotelett chop. Potato salad is a popular side dish.

White beer, to which fruit syrup is added, is in demand among women. For national dishes, be sure to try the deep-fried chicken and Eintopf soup, which is more like a stew than a main course.
For gourmets - Hackepeter snack. This is a mixture of raw minced meat with hot spices, topped with a raw egg.

For dessert, try the Berliner pancakes with marmalade.
Berlin has many gastronomic establishments where everyone will find a dish to suit their taste. Among the most popular establishments is the Maxwell restaurant, where the menu consists of national dishes. The beautiful interior and advantageous location in a historic building of the 19th century make Maxwell an ideal place for both business negotiations and celebrations.

Continental cuisine is served in the Alt Luxembourg restaurant. This is a fascinating place where the atmosphere of antiquity and grace reigns.
The Marjellchen restaurant offers European cuisine and a modern interior; it is extremely popular among tourists and the local population.

Accommodation

In total, there are about 850 hotels in Berlin, so, as a rule, there are no problems with housing.

The modernist two-star hotel H2 Berlin-Alexanderplatz offers good rooms and a buffet breakfast for 45 € per day.
Among three-star hotels, we can recommend the Apartments am Brandenburger Tor and Hotel Gat Point Charlie. Room rates range from 50 to 340 € per night.
The four-star hotels Adina Berlin Hackescher Markt and H10 Berlin Ku'damm are known for their excellent level of service, reasonable prices and a wide range of services. Room prices range from 73 to 700 €.
The five-star Eurostars Berlin provides high-quality service and comfortable rooms starting from €85.

Entertainment and relaxation

Berlin is the best city for outdoor enthusiasts. If you like thrills, be sure to visit the horror room. In addition to goblins and ghosts, the Berlin Horror Room has a museum that reflects all the horrors of World War II.
An exclusive ride around the city will be a ride on a rickshaw. Pedicab parking is located on the Gendarmenmarkt square and at the Brandenburg Gate.

Every day, Zoo Aquarium Berlin is open for you - an aquarium that is stunning in its diversity.

The botanical garden "Gardens of the World" will show you plants from all the world's famous botanical gardens.
The Jacks Fun World complex is open for families with children: fun rides, exciting games for the little ones and funny photos with fairy-tale characters will captivate your children and give wonderful memories.

For a holistic experience, visit the Adlon Day Spa. This is Berlin's most prestigious establishment in this area. Therapeutic baths, massages and a huge swimming pool will help you truly relax and unwind.
Fans of club life will find a place to suit every taste in Berlin. The 90˚ club is very popular. Every evening the club hosts various theme nights, and visitors must dress in a style appropriate to the musical direction.
A romantic evening can be spent on Friday at the Knaack club. On Mondays, fans of rock music gather there.

Purchases

Shopping lovers will feel extremely comfortable in Berlin. Fashion boutiques, shopping centers, shops with exclusive clothing, outlets - a huge variety of goods and affordable prices can even turn your head.
The main shopping streets of the city are Kurfrstendamm and Friedrichstrasse.

Kurfrstendamm starts from the Memorial Church and ends at Lake Hälensi. This shopping street is filled with world-famous brands, antique shops, and one of the largest shopping centers in Europe, Kaufhaus des Westens. The most exclusive things will be waiting for you here.

Friedrichstrasse is located in the eastern part of Berlin. There are car showrooms, expensive boutiques, and shops with exclusive goods.
Inexpensive and high-quality clothes are sold on Wilmersdorferstrasse or Alexander Platz.

In shopping towns called outlets, they sell designer items from famous brands from past collections, which is why their prices are extremely low.
If you want to save even more, you need to arrive in Berlin by the last Monday of July or January. From now on there are big sales for two weeks. Designer items are sold at discounts of up to 80%.
Shops are open from 9.00 or 10.00 to 18.00. On Thursdays, supermarket opening hours are extended until 20.00. Saturday is always a day of reduced work schedule until 16.00.

Transport

Public transport in Berlin consists of buses, trolleybuses, metro and, in the eastern part of the city, trams. The metro covers the main areas of Berlin.

Working hours of the metro are from 4.00 to 2.00, bus and tram from 5.30 to 01.00. At night, separate night bus and trolleybus routes operate.

The city is divided into zones, according to which the cost of travel is determined. AB is the entire area of ​​Berlin. In this zone, the cheapest travel option is a single ticket costing €3.70. If you intend to use public transport frequently, you should buy a day ticket. The price for one person is 5.5 € for a large area, for all areas - 8.15 €. A ticket for a group of 5 people will cost 7 € for a large area and 10 € for a general area. Three-day tickets are sold only for the large zone, their cost is 12 €. The “Berlin - Potsdam Welcome Card” will provide you with preferential travel on transport, which, in addition, entitles you to a 50% discount when visiting museums and excursions.

Tickets for the bus can be purchased from the driver, and for the train - from orange machines.

Connection

The city has a city line, postal mail, pay phones, mobile communications, and the Internet.
There will be no problems with Internet access, since there are many Internet cafes throughout the city. Cafes, restaurants and large bars provide free Wi-Fi access. Potsdamer Platz has the largest free Wi-Fi zone.

Safety

For a walk, it is better to take a hotel map or a copy of your passport with you. Having a document proving your identity is mandatory in any unforeseen situation.

It is not advisable to carry large amounts of cash on you. Credit cards are accepted to pay for purchases in large stores, restaurants, and cafes.

The fine for traveling without a ticket on public transport throughout Germany is €40.
Talking on a mobile phone without a headset while driving can cost you a fine of 40 €.

Business climate

Berlin is the economic and financial center of Germany and the EU. The main sectors of development are mechanical engineering, radio-electronic industry, and transport construction. Berlin is also an annual center for international exhibitions and trade fairs.
The headquarters of companies such as Siemens AG, Deutsche Bahn AG and many other companies of the same level are located here.

Real estate

The average price for real estate ranges from 1,200 to 3,000 € per m2.
Housing prices in Berlin start from 20,000 €, which is much cheaper compared to other cities not only in Germany, but also in Europe.
A two-room apartment in a remote area will cost 30,000 €. Apartment in the city center, area 90 m2 - 122,000 €. 54 m2 can be purchased for 60,000 €.

The best days to visit museums and galleries are Tuesday and Wednesday. These days, cultural institutions are open until late. Monday is usually a day off.

To contact local residents, the phrase “Herr Doctor” is convenient. This treatment is appropriate for people of any profession.
A sign of good manners is the obligatory greeting with the expression “Mahlzeit” when entering a restaurant. It translates as “Bon appetit!”

You can withdraw cash on the most favorable terms at Geldautomat ATMs. They charge minimal fees and are located close to every major shopping center and government office.

The capital of Germany grew out of two fishing villages - Berlin and Cologne, united in 1307. Despite the fact that there are several versions of the origin of the city’s name, most often the word “Berlin” is identified with the German noun “Bär” (“bear”).

The status of the administrative center of the city on the Spree was consolidated in 1417, after Elector Frederick I managed to seize the reins of the Brandenburg Mark. Berlin was immediately given the title of the residence of the Margrave and the capital of the principality, which allowed it to later become a fateful city for the entire Hohenzollern dynasty.

By the end of the 19th century, Berlin had become the political and cultural center of the German Empire. Well, the boundaries of the modern metropolis began to emerge only in the 20s of the 20th century, after the merger of the capital with nearby cities and towns. Truly grandiose prospects loomed before Berlin after the Nazis came to power. They began to give it the title of capital of the world, and the architect Albert Speer even managed to sketch out a project for this wonderful city of the future. To top it all off, the Summer Olympics were held here in 1936.

The National Socialists were prevented from realizing their great plans for Berlin by defeat in World War II. By 1945, most of the German capital lay in ruins, and the territory of the city itself was torn into occupation zones: the western part went to Great Britain and the USA, and the eastern part went to the USSR. Moreover, Berlin remained the administrative center only for the capitalist Federal Republic of Germany, while the government of the thoroughly socialist GDR moved to Bonn. The city managed to become the unified capital of Germany only in 1991, after the demolition of the legendary Berlin Wall and the unification of both republics.

Urban districts and districts

The system of administrative division in the German capital is quite unique. Berlin comprises 12 districts, each of which has a certain degree of independence and has its own district government. In turn, the districts are divided into districts (the exact number is 96). Statistical territories such as Schöneberg and the Bavarian quarter can also be considered an unofficial administrative unit, whose boundaries often coincide with the boundaries of the districts.

Unlike most European cities, Berlin's attractions are scattered throughout the vast metropolis. As a result, in order to cover as many historical monuments and places of worship as possible, you will have to travel dozens of kilometers around the capital.

The most generous district in terms of attractions and at the same time the historical center of Berlin is Mitte (“middle”). Of course, this is far from the wild and reckless Mitte that greeted tourists in the 30s of the last century (during the war the area was almost completely destroyed), and, nevertheless, it still has plenty of interesting places. By the way, the main symbols of the German capital - the Reichstag building, the Brandenburg Gate and the TV tower - are located precisely in this area.

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A bohemian abode, the location of the most pretentious restaurants and hotels, as well as the center of attraction for all shopaholics in Germany - the Charlottenburg-Wimmelsdorf district. People come here to visit the Berlin Opera, as well as to appreciate the non-trivial exterior of the Wilhelm Kaiser Church. The administrative district of Friedrichshain-Kreuzberg is completely occupied by Berlin informals, so young people will definitely like it here. Rebellious spirit, soft drugs, nightclubs and cheap accommodation - the area has plenty of these and other simple riches. Travelers with children should look into the Tempelhof-Schöneberg district, firstly, because the famous Berlin Zoo is located on its territory, and secondly, because of the calm, peaceful atmosphere that reigns on the local streets. The only “wormhole” of the area is that for some reason it is especially adored by representatives of the gay community.

Treptow-Köpenick is a paradise for lovers of outdoor recreation: the entire district is literally surrounded by green groves, interspersed with natural and artificial reservoirs. And, of course, don’t forget about the famous Treptower Park with its monument to the liberating soldier and the Köpenick Palace, which can be found in this part of the city. An alternative to Treptow-Köpenick is the Steglitz-Zehlendorf district, home to those whose lives have been successful. In addition to being the best place to demonstrate financial snobbery, Steglitz-Zehlendorf boasts Strandbad Beach, which is undoubtedly the most beautiful beach in Berlin.

A visit to the Spandau district, which was once an independent city, is worth visiting for those interested in monuments of the past. The area still preserves the walls of the ancient citadel, as well as part of the historical center, where the skillfully restored Kolk Street and the 13th-century Church of St. Nicholas are located. But it’s better not to stay long in Neukölln and Lichtenberg. Among respectable burghers, the districts enjoy an ambiguous reputation, partly due to the emigrants from the CIS and Eastern countries inhabiting them. However, if you plan to visit the above-mentioned Berlin neighborhoods solely for excursion purposes, it is unlikely that the local residents will interfere with you.

Attractions and entertainment

At first glance, the face of modern Berlin is somewhat stern and ascetic. There is not the abundance of historical monuments here that you would expect to find in a city with almost 800 years of history, although the capital of Germany itself is not at all to blame for this: all the most spectacular and truly ancient buildings were swept away by the whirlwind of World War II. Of course, the skillful hands of German builders reconstructed part of the lost cultural heritage, but, alas, the notorious epoch-making spirit that their ancient predecessors literally exuded is no longer felt in the glossy remakes.

And yet, Berlin is beautiful! It is beautiful for its wonderful museums, where you can find everything your heart desires: from ancient Greek statues to creepy exhibits from the Holocaust; green boulevards and cozy cafes, at the tables of which Remarque, Brecht and Zweig once sat; delightful park areas, laid out with true German precision, and recognizable architectural symbols. Finally, in Berlin it’s great to just enjoy life: have breakfast in tiny coffee shops in the morning, go on a shopping spree in the capital’s stores during the day, and drink up exotic cocktails in numerous clubs at night.

But the first thing, of course, is to run around religious places and spontaneously photograph everyone and everything. The Brandenburg Gate, the legendary Reichstag with its panoramic dome, any section of the Berlin Wall, Alexanderplatz, the TV tower, the Red Town Hall and Mary's Church - all this is a mandatory minimum cultural plan, without which it is simply a shame to leave Berlin. The boulevards Unter den Linden and Kurfürstendamm need not even be mentioned, since only a person who has completely lost interest in the small joys of life can bypass these two highways.

Another outstanding landmark of the German capital is the Berlin Cathedral. An exquisite massive structure with turquoise domes, surrounded by the Lustgarten park, is located on Museum Island. By the way, about the island itself: it is worth allocating the longest period of time to visit it, since this particular piece of land in the middle of the Spree River is included in the UNESCO World Heritage List and houses the best museums in the country - Pergamon, the Old National Gallery, the Bode Museum, the Old and the New museums.

The rest of Berlin is also full of museums of various types. Technology fans will be gladly welcomed at the Luftwaffe Museum. Fans of creepy historical exhibits will definitely find something for themselves at the Jewish Museum and the Stasi Prison Museum. For interesting facts from the life of great gays, you should look into the Museum of Homosexuality, and the best place to appreciate the style and painting technique of the German Expressionists of the 20th century is at the New National Gallery. In the Berlin-Dahlem Museum Center you can get acquainted with the masterpieces of Asian art, and at the same time wander among the funny houses, stylized as the homes of different peoples of the world.

If you want a real fairy tale, try taking a tour of Berlin palaces. Stroll through the ornate halls of Charlottenburg, appreciate the discreet charm of Bisdorff, sigh enviously over the Köpenick porcelain collection and, for a snack, enjoy the magnificent landscape stretching out in front of the Tegel palace and park ensemble.

A great way to cheer yourself up and dispel the myth about the hopeless existence of our little brothers in captivity is a trip to the Berlin Zoo. By the way, this establishment is still listed among the world leaders among its peers in terms of living conditions and species diversity of animals. For relaxation, unusual souvenirs and contradictory impressions, it is better to go to the Tiergarten district, whose signature feature is unusual and sometimes downright ambiguous sculptures. Patriots are strongly recommended to stop by Treptower Park to stand at the legendary monument to the unknown soldier and walk along the alley of sarcophagi. Well, travelers who dare to come to Berlin with children will be helped out by the local Tropical Island water park. The gigantic entertainment complex is divided into several thematic zones and amazes with its crazy attractions.

All sights of Berlin

Night Berlin

For those who find real freedom in Berlin, it is for fans of club life. Within the city there are several hundred establishments of various profiles: from simple disco bars to swingers and gay clubs. No matter how unusual your passions may be, in the German capital you will always find a cozy place and company of similar interests. The main thing is not to forget that each club has its own contingent, its own rules, and often its own dress code. For example, only glamorous kitties and pretentious hipsters hang out in 40 Seconds, so you won’t be able to break through here in Chinese sneakers. Fans of Latin American rhythms usually flock to Hawanna, while puro Sky Lounge is where fans of pop and house styles rock.

You can get your share of “savory” pleasures at KitKatClub (tourists with strong moral principles should skip it, since it’s mostly gays and swingers who hang out here). A mainstay of Berlin's nightlife, Berghain enjoys a well-deserved reputation as the most intimate establishment. Not a single scandalous story will ever leak through the doors of this club, so you will have to try very hard to get into it (there are rumors that even some Hollywood celebrities did not pass face control at Berghain). The most delicious cocktails - according to Berliners - are served in the seemingly inconspicuous Prinzipal Kreuzberg, and the best DJs perform at the Watergate club, famous for its exclusive terrace built right on the water.

Transport

You can get around Berlin by buses, trams, ferries or metro. The latter here has two lines: the above-ground S-Bahn and the underground U-Bahn. During peak hours, trains run at intervals of 1.5-3 minutes, while the standard waiting time for a train is no more than 10 minutes.

An alternative to the metro is MetroTram trams, identified by the letter “M” on the cars. The classic routes of such trams are areas of the city that the Berlin metro does not reach. As for buses, the most useful, from a tourist point of view, are routes No. 100 and No. 200, which go around Alexanderplatz and the zoo. In addition, at night, night buses travel through the streets of the metropolis.

Water modes of transport also have their adherents. Berlin is dotted with a network of canals, and the Spree River is just a stone's throw away. Water buses run in 6 directions. The most popular route is the central part of the capital, although some companies offer boat trips on lakes in the eastern and western parts of the city. In addition, there are several ferry services in Berlin that are not part of the general transport network. The main feature of such floating platforms is that in addition to passengers, they also transport vehicles.

It may come in handy: you can understand all the intricacies of the Berlin transport system, as well as plot the necessary route in virtual space, on the official website bvg.de.

Berlin has developed a system of unified travel tickets. True, they operate in the overwhelming majority only in specific zones (combined options also occur). There are three such zones in total:

• A – areas bounded by the S-Bahn ring railway;
• B – areas outside the ring railway line;
• C is a suburban area that includes airports, Oranienburg and Potsdam.

The cheapest Kurzstrecke pass costs 1.3 euros and is valid for 6 bus or tram stops (transfers are not provided), or for three metro stops (transfers are allowed). A two-hour Einzelfarausweis ticket for any type of transport will cost 2.8 euros. A 1-day single-tagescard ticket costs 7 euros. The same type of ticket, but designed for a group of up to 5 people (“partner-tageskarte”), will cost 16.9 euros. You will have to pay exactly 29.5 euros for a weekly pass (“Sieben-tage-karte”), and about 72.5 euros for a monthly option (“monatskarte standard”). By the way, it is highly not recommended to show miracles of ingenuity and ride around the city like a hare, since the fines in Berlin are impressive.

Taxis in Berlin can be caught on the street, called by phone, or taken directly from the parking lot. The prices here, by European standards, are quite affordable: boarding – 3.4 euros; the first 7 km of the journey – 1.8 euros; then 1.3 euros for each subsequent kilometer. By the way, it is better to pay in cash, since when paying by credit card you will be charged an additional 1.5 euros. And don’t forget about tips – the standard 10% of the cost of the trip.

Due to the heavy traffic flow, Berlin is not the most suitable city for cyclists. But if you want, finding special paths for bikes in it is not so difficult. The cheapest way to rent a bike is to take it to one of the parking lots near the metro. To remove the lock from your vehicle, you just need to call the CallBikes call center (the number is located on the bike frame) and tell them your bank card number in exchange for the lock code. The time of use of the “two-wheeled friend” is recorded by a meter and costs 0.06 euros/min. The bike should be returned to the same parking lot: just press the “Ruckgabe” button on the steering wheel and remember the code that will appear on the electronic display. After this, all you have to do is call the rental hotline and report the location of the bike. You can also get a bike for temporary use at rental offices and hostels. However, in this case you will have to put up with higher tariffs and a mandatory deposit of 50 euros.

Car rent

Any driver between the ages of 21 and 75 can rent a car in Berlin, provided that he has at least a year of driving experience. On average, renting a car costs 27 euros. Additional “bells and whistles” in the form of a child seat, a navigator, delivery of a car to the desired location or driver services must be paid separately. Initially, the car is delivered fully fueled, so you must return it to the agency with a full tank.

Gasoline prices in the German capital range from 1.3-1.4 euros/liter. A pleasant fact: you won’t have to pay for the operation of the road surface in Berlin and its suburbs. But if you want to get into the city center, it makes sense to spend money on a special sticker that costs about 15 euros, informing others that the emission level of your car meets acceptable standards.

Connection

You can go to Berlin with a SIM card from any of the Big Three operators, having previously activated profitable services for international roaming. Beeline has the “Most profitable roaming” option, MTS has the “Zabugorische” tariff, which is also available as an option. Megafon offers travel with the “Whole World” option, as well as prepaid packages of free minutes (“25 minutes Europe and CIS”, “50 minutes Europe and CIS”). If you don’t have a domestic SIM card with you, you can find something suitable from local cellular companies: Vodafone, T-Mobil, O2 and E-Plus.

More than 100 free Wi-Fi hotspots await Internet addicts in Berlin. True, you can partake of the benefits of civilization without compromising your own budget only for half an hour - the generosity of the burghers also has its limits. You can find the nearest access point to the World Wide Web on the publicwifi.de map.

How to save money in Berlin

Berlin is not a cheap city, but you can find opportunities to save money here too. Try to get a Berlin WelcomeCard or CityTourCard immediately upon arrival. Both the first and second options are aimed at short-term visits to the capital and provide serious discounts on visiting the most significant attractions.

So, for 21.9 euros, the owner of a Berlin WelcomeCard has the right to ride any type of public transport for 48 hours, as well as go to museums and theaters in Berlin and Potsdam for almost half the price. The listed privileges also apply to children whom an adult can accompany with them (up to three people under the age of 14 years). The same set of pleasures, but extended over three days, will cost 29.9 euros. You can buy a Berlin WelcomeCard on the official website berlin-welcomecard.de.

The CityTourCard is more focused on leisure activities than sightseeing tours, and also includes free travel on public transport. The hottest offers of this type of “pass” are a 30% discount on visits to Madame Tussauds Berlin, the Legoland center, and the heartbreaking attraction “Underground Prison”. The cost of a 48-hour CityTourCard is 16.7 euros. It is better to check the tariffs and the list of places for which discounts apply on the website citytourcard.com.

Restaurants and cafes

There are 19 Michelin-rated restaurants in the German capital, although this criterion is not decisive for Berliners themselves. All local catering outlets are divided into noteworthy establishments “for Germans” and uninteresting “tourist eateries”. It is clear that in order to have a proper lunch, it is worth making your way to a restaurant from the first category. Marjellchen has a good reputation and generous portions, but the restaurant’s halls are almost always packed, so it’s best to book a table a couple of weeks in advance. People usually go to the Michelin-starred Facil for its stylish interiors and creative menu, while the Rausch Schokoladenhaus is loved by those with a sweet tooth.

In taverns of a lower rank, the spirit of Asia and the East is already clearly felt (emigrants are trying their best). As for traditional street food, the East is already completely in charge: kebab and falafel shops are at every turn in Berlin. Pizzerias and Thai restaurants are no less popular. If you still want to get acquainted with classic German cuisine, try ordering soup stew in a clay pot - eintopf, or the stereotypical, but still incredibly tasty eisbein, which is a pork knuckle baked with cabbage. You can also indulge in beer. The burghers themselves especially praise its local version with a reduced alcohol content: Berliner Weiße.

Prices for all this deliciousness vary. In elite establishments you can leave 70 euros or more; a check in a mid-range cafe usually amounts to 25-40 euros. Well, a snack in a street tent will cost 3-5 euros. It is better to resolve the issue of tips before the start of the meal: in some cafes this type of gratitude is included in the bill and amounts to 10% of the order cost. Meanwhile, there are quite a few establishments in Berlin where tips are left at the discretion of the client.

Where to stay

Hotels in the eastern and western parts of Berlin are slightly different. In the first case, chain giants with the maximum number of stars and corresponding prices will prevail, while in the western part of the capital you can find fashionable “five” hotels and nice mini-hotels with a host behind the counter. The highest concentration of Hiltons, Sheratons and Marriotts is located in the historical center - Mitte, but by and large in each of the city districts you can find at least one luxury establishment. At the same time, not only an oligarch can afford to stay in Mitte: in this part of Berlin there are also plenty of more affordable housing options. As a rule, these are two-star hotels, guest houses or boarding houses, the prices of which range from 60 to 80 euros per room. Austerity enthusiasts will be pleased with the local hostels. If you take care of your reservation in advance, you can get a pretty decent room for just 36 euros (of course, not during the tourist season).

Holidays and Events

Holidays in Berlin are celebrated on a grand scale, sometimes smoothly flowing into a real bacchanalia. The exception is Catholic Christmas, which is usually celebrated in a quiet family circle. On New Year's Day, the more or less on its feet population of the capital flocks to Alexanderplatz Square to sip spicy mulled wine and squeal to the fireworks. At the end of May, the city streets are filled with all kinds of creative groups and crowds of idle spectators who came to the opening of the Carnival of Cultures.

If you're pretty tired of traditional festivities and performances by amateur ensembles, it's worth checking out the Berlin Gay Pride Parade: this is where they really masterfully break molds and break stereotypes. Desperate film fans are advised to come to the capital during the Berlinale festival, but fans of Oktoberfest-style events should wait for the start of the Beer Mile - an annual beer marathon starting in mid-August.

Shopping in Berlin

In Berlin, shopaholics with tightly packed wallets go to wool the elite boutiques of Kurfürstendamm (3.5 kilometers of continuous showrooms), while supporters of more affordable prices storm Alexanderplatz, or rather, the Galeria Kaufthaus located on it. The first place in the top 5 most advertised shopping centers in the city still belongs to the Ka De We department store (Tauentzienstrasse). Here you can not only get a stylish outfit from world couturiers, but also stock up on all kinds of products: on the sixth floor of the shopping center there are grocery rows and food courts. Berliners also have their own Galeries Lafayette (Friedrichstrasse), where wealthy burghers drop in to test a new fragrance from Amouage or try on a Tissot watch. There is a culinary department at the mall, where you can try plenty of elite varieties of cheese and baked goods.

If you are interested in budget brands, check out the Peek & Cloppenburg brand store on Tauentzihenstrasse: both established customers and fans of budget shopping are welcome here. And by the way, don’t think that Berlin is exclusively about giant malls filled with luxury brands from all over Europe. In some areas like Kreuzberg and Friedrichshain, entire blocks are taken over by tiny shops and galleries run by local designers. They also sell interesting items designed for a narrow circle of connoisseurs.

And of course, what would a German city be without flea markets! Hallentroedelmarkt Treptow, Berliner Kunst- und Nostalgiemarkt, Troedel- und Kunstmarkt, Flohmarkt am Arkona Platz - at each of these flea markets you can unearth real rare treasures, or ordinary penny trinkets, diligently given out for this very rarity.

Twice a year, on the first Monday in July and the last Monday in January, Berlin's shopping centers are stormed by thousands of excited Germans. This can only mean one thing: respectable ordinary people have finally gotten their hands on the seasonal sales. Usually, local traders save the most tempting offers for the end of the season, so in the last days of sales you can see such an attraction of unprecedented generosity as discounts of up to 70%.

What to bring from Berlin

• a cute fur coat made of natural fur or a shocking outfit from an unknown local designer, purchased for a symbolic price;
• real Swiss watches. If the famous Carrera hurts your pocket, you can limit yourself to a model of a lesser-known brand, which will cost you some 100-300 euros, but will work no less;
• a car (well, where else can you buy German cars if not in their homeland);
• glazed gingerbread hearts “lebkuchen”, sausages, a bottle of schnapps or a couple of varieties of local beer.

Tax free

Berlin stores support the Tax free system, so if you have purchased goods for an amount exceeding 25 euros, urgently look for a counter in the hall with the inscription “Tax free Shopping” and ask for your legal receipt. You can get a VAT refund of 10-15% of the purchase amount right before departure at the airport.

. During the summer months from 6 trains depart from Moscow in the direction of Berlin, in winter - no more than 3. The trip lasts about 30 hours.

If you want to minimize travel costs, you can buy a bus ticket. Direct flights depart from Moscow (Rizhsky station), the Northern capital (stations on the Obvodny Canal embankment and Vitebsky) and Kaliningrad. Many people leave for Berlin from Moscow in their own car. A trip along the Minsk Highway through Poland will take 19 hours. From St. Petersburg you will have to travel in the direction of the German capital through the eastern part

Berlin is a modern metropolis, the economic and cultural center of the EU, a city of contrasts. It is dynamic and multifaceted. The collections of the city's galleries and museums are beyond praise. Berlin clubs organize the most fashionable parties, where new movements, styles, and subcultures are born. And shopping in Berlin is excellent, all products are of high quality at reasonable prices.

Berlin, photo: Tobias Nordhausen

Berlin is the capital of the medieval Margraviate of Brandenburg, the Kingdom of Prussia, the powerful German Empire, the socialist GDR and modern united Germany. The second metropolis of the European Union in terms of population, a multinational city that marks the victory of humanity over fascism. Berlin is the heart of Brandenburg; historical, cultural, scientific, industrial and economic center of world significance. It is called the "City of Bridges". There are more of them built here than in Venice - about 1,700 large and small engineering structures.

5 things to do in Berlin

1. Take the Reichstag and look at Berlin from its dome.
2. Take a selfie against the backdrop of the Berlin Wall with the legendary kiss of Brezhnev and Honecker.
3. Eat the most delicious döner kebab (shawarma) for lunch and drink beer.
4. See the bust of the Egyptian queen Nefertiti in the Pergamon Museum.
5. Stay up all night and dance in the club.

When is the best time to go to Berlin?

Berlin is located in the eastern part of the country - where the Spree and Havel currents merge. The modern districts are built on the moraine hills of Teltow and Barnim; the historical center is located in the lowland between two hills.

The climate here is temperate: average between maritime and continental. Summer is warm, about +20°C. Winter is moderately cold, on average +1– +2°C, but frosts down to -25°C also occur. The rainy months are June-July, the driest is March.

Berlin Guide

Sights of Berlin

Brandenburg Gate, photo by Raoni

The historical Gate of Peace (Brandenburger Tor) is a recognizable emblem of Berlin and Germany, a symbol of the reunification of the divided territories of the country. The memorial complex, founded in 1789 on behalf of Frederick William II, is considered an example of Berlin classicism. The architecture of the gate follows the exterior of the Propylaea on the Parthenon. Above six monumental columns, paired with a carved ceiling and a relief attic, rises the Victoria quadriga. Initially, a figure of the goddess of peace Irene carrying an olive branch was installed there. During reconstruction in the 19th century, after the victory over the French, the sculptor Friedrich Schinkel changed the statue. The Goddess of Victory with the Iron Cross in her hands was installed in the chariot. The height of the Brandenburg Gate is 26 m, the total length of the building is 66 meters.

Reichstag

Reichstag (Reichstagsgebäude), photo by Andy

From the northern part, the gate is adjacent to the Reichstag, the main attraction of the city, which is known all over the world. (Reichstagsgebäude) is a majestic building, a symbol of the past war and Victory over the horrors of Nazism. It was built in 1884–1933. according to the project of P. Volot. The building served for parliamentary meetings. The dome in the center of the building symbolized the greatness of Kaiser Wilhelm II. The monumental towers at the corners of the complex were dedicated to the four kingdoms: Bavaria, Prussia, Württemberg, and Saxony. The grandiose Renaissance-style building was burned down by unknown persons in 1933 (Berlin communists were blamed for the arson). The Reichstag was restored, but was no longer used for government purposes. In 1945, the allied armies stormed the building and it was again destroyed to ruins. After the construction of the Berlin Wall, the Reichstag remained on the side of West Germany. Major reconstruction was carried out twice: in 1961–64 and in 1992–95. The new building under a huge glass dome retains the features of the High Renaissance. Today, the Reichstag towers house government offices and meeting rooms. An observation deck is equipped in the under-dome space.

Berlin Wall

Berlin Wall (Berliner Mauer), photo rysberlin

The Berlin Wall (Berliner Mauer) is a historical monument, a symbol of the Cold War and many tragedies in the lives of ordinary Germans. The former dividing line with the status of a border, almost 45 km long, passing through the capital's neighborhoods. The wall was a solid concrete barrier 3.6 m high, reinforced with a ditch, a signal complex, spikes, and three hundred border towers. More than 1,300 people died at various times while trying to cross the Wall without authorization. Most of the Berliner Mauer was demolished in 1989, but a 4-hectare memorial with a central monument and a 1.3 km section of the fence remained, gradually turned into a spontaneous art object. Today it reminds us of a difficult period in modern German history.

Checkpoint Charlie

Checkpoint Charlie, photo fam_dax

Checkpoint Charlie is a famous Berlin site, a former military checkpoint between two parts of the city, a symbol of the confrontation between two controlled sectors - Soviet and US. The checkpoint stands in the middle of Friedrichstrasse, and two light stands with portraits of soldiers - an American and a Russian - rise above it. This installation was created by artist Frank Thiel. The Checkpoint Charlie complex includes exhibitions of political and military history, a photo exhibition, and the Berlin Wall Museum.

Victory Column

Victory Column (Siegessäule), photo juergenberlin

Chocolate House

Chocolate house Fassbender&Rausch, photo A_and_K

A unique, largest chocolate house in the world has been opened in Berlin - the Schokoladenhaus Fassbender&Rausch store. The center of attraction for all lovers of sweets is located in the French Quarter near Gendarmerie Square (Gendarmenmarkt).

Address: Charlottenstraße 60, 10117 Berlin.
Opening hours: Mon-Sat 10:00 - 20:00; Sun 11:00 - 20:00.
Website: www.rausch.de.

Here we have listed only a small part of the attractions of Berlin. But if you are traveling to the German capital for the first time, then these will be your first priority travel destinations.

Palaces and castles

Museums, exhibitions and galleries

Architecture and monuments

Squares and streets

Gardens and parks

Theaters and entertainment

Temples and cathedrals

A little history

In the 12th century, the settlements of Altberlin and Cologne appeared on the territory of the Margraviate of Brandenburg, on the banks of the Spree and the island of Spreeinsel. In 1237–44 they became independent cities. In 1307, the two cities actually united, but the official unification took place only in 1709.

In 1417, Berlin was declared the capital of the Margraviate/Electorate of Brandenburg. From the beginning of the 18th century until the second half of the 19th century, it was the capital of Prussia. After the Great Unification into the German Empire, Berlin was its capital until 1918; until 1933 - the capital of the Weimar Republic, until 1945 - Nazi Germany (Third Reich).

After the defeat of Hitler's army in World War II, Berlin was divided into four occupation sectors, which were under the control of the victorious countries. In 1949, 2 German states appeared: the Federal Republic of Germany in the western zone and the GDR in the east. Berlin was also divided into two parts. The Berlin Wall, which divided the city, the country and many families for a long time, was erected in 1961 and demolished in 1989. The Eastern and Western territories of Berlin were reunited, external control was abolished, and a new period began in the life and history of the city.

Entertainment

Walking through the city at night, photo by Theodor Sirbuletu

The city transforms every night, its splendor can be appreciated if you go for a walk through the city at night, and in warm weather along the Spree by boat to see the magnificent Berlin buildings and bridges from the water, from a new perspective.

Night clubs

In a Berlin nightclub, photo puroberlin

The night lights come on. The doors of numerous clubs in Berlin open.

The respectable establishment 40 Seconds at Potsdamer Straße 58 has several halls and two dance floors on terraces with views of the city.

The Berghain techno club hosts incendiary non-stop parties from Friday to Monday, and there is a Panorama Bar on the second floor. Address: Am Wriezener Bahnhof.

Puro Sky Lounge is located on the twentieth floor of the Europacenter building - from there, from a dizzying height, a magnificent all-round panorama of the night capital opens. This club has luxurious conceptual interiors, a variety of music, and themed parties. Address: Tauentzienstraße 9-12.

The glamorous Mio is located in the basement of the Berlin TV Tower. It has stylish interiors and a huge terrace overlooking the historical center. Address: Panoramastraße 1A.

Casino lovers can visit the Spielbank Berlin gambling house on Potsdamer Platz. The entertainment complex has four halls with modern slot machines, roulette, blackjack, and classic card games. Address: Marlene-Dietrich-Platz 1.

Holidays

Christmas in Berlin, photo bz_foto

New Year's holidays in Berlin are noisy, with home feasts, street celebrations, and fireworks.

On the first of May, Berliners celebrate Maifeiertag. The ancient pagan tradition has today turned into an official holiday. The main symbol of the holiday is the Maypole decorated in a special way. The evening before, the street events “Dance in May” begin, they go into Walpurgis Night - noisy fun reigns on the capital’s streets. In the morning, the trade union association DGB is organizing a May Day demonstration.

The third Sunday in October is the harvest festival, Kirmes. The symbol of autumn folk festivities is considered to be a straw effigy with an indispensable bottle of schnapps - it is burned in the square.

Berliners' favorite holiday is Christmas. It was from Germany that the custom of decorating the Christmas tree originated. Celebrations last a week until New Year's.

Events

Festival of Lights, photo Frank

In February, the Berlinale opens, the famous Berlin film festival dedicated to intellectual cinema, with the main prize “Golden Bear”.

At the end of May, the colorful Carnival of Cultures takes place with costumed processions and scenic street areas.

Museum Night falls on the last Sunday in August. Almost all museums and galleries in the city offer cultural and entertainment programs. This international project today takes place all over the world, and it started in Berlin, since 1997.

In October, the German capital hosts an enchanting Festival of Lights. All the main attractions are illuminated, and spectacular light shows are projected onto the walls of buildings. The holiday lasts two weeks, ending with the night mass marathon City Light Run.

Shopping

Berlin's shops can turn even the most pragmatic people into shopaholics.

Store opening hours

Shops are usually open from Monday to Saturday from 10:00 to 20:00. On Sunday they rest, except for some, for example, at train stations.

Sales

Traditionally, the winter sale (Winterschlussverkauf) begins on the last Monday of January, and the summer sale (Sommerschlussverkauf) on the last Monday of July. They last approximately 2 weeks. But many stores in winter begin to reduce prices before Christmas. Discounts in Berlin shopping centers are announced by Reduziert, Sale or % signs.

The shops

Department store KaDeWe, photo Markus Ammann

The capital's shopping routes run along Kurfuerstendamm (Ku'damm for short) and Friedrichstrasse. Ku'damm is the abode of luxury: Gucci, Chanel, Sonia Rykiel, Max Mara, Jil Sander. On Friedrichstrasse and Unter den Linden you will find expensive boutiques of Escada, Herm'es, Hugo Boss clothing and Herend porcelain.

On Friedrichstrasse, interesting shopping centers are Quartier 205, Quartier 206 and Quartier 207, where the Galleries Lafayette is located. Departmentstore Quartier 206 on the second floor presents the latest collections of leading brands Calvin Klein, Dolce & Gabbana, Manolo Bahnik, Miu Miu, Oscar de la Renta, Marc Jacobs, Prada, Victoria Beckham, Tom Ford, Yves Saint Laurent, Bottega Veneta, Etro . When a new collection arrives, discounted items end up in the Last Season store below.

On Tauentzienstrasse, this continuation of Ku’damm, there are stores of affordable brands (Zara, H&M). There are also large department stores here: Peek&Cloppenburg (Tauentzienstraße, 19), Europa Center (Tauentzienstraße, 9-12), Wertheim (Kurfürstendamm, 231).

Next to the Wittenbergplatz metro station, there is the department store Kaufhaus des Westens, abbreviated Ka-De-We (Tauentzienstraße, 21-24). The 8-storey KaDeWe is the second largest department store in Europe.

You can find inexpensive clothes on Wilmersdorferstrasse. Discounts are given for most of the range.

Two hundred branded retail establishments are gathered under the roof of the Alexa shopping center at Grunerstraße 20. Here you can find quite affordable brands.

The Arcade shopping center on Potsdamer Platz Arkaden sells fashion items, cosmetics and other beauty products, electronics, and gadgets. Address: Alte Potsdamer Straße, 7.

European clothing is presented in the die mitte shopping center on Alexanderplatz.

The brands at Galeria Kaufhaus on Alexanderplatz are aimed at average incomes. Here you can buy high-quality shoes and clothes, costume jewelry, leather goods and various accessories.

It is also worth checking out the impressive range of Ritter Sport chocolates in the 1000 m² Ritter Sport Bunte Schokowelt brand store at Französische Straße 24.

Outlets

The capital's outlets offer inexpensive shopping:
Marc Cain Factory (Oudenarder Straße, 16),
PrivaFashion-Club Outlet Berlin (Altonaer Straße, 59),
Zalando Outlet Store Berlin (Köpenicker Straße, 20),
Designer Outlet Berlin (Alter Spandauer Weg 1, 14641 Wustermark).

Flea markets

There are several flea markets in Berlin. Here are a few.

The largest Hallentroedelmarkt Treptow is located on the site of a former factory. Opening hours: on weekends from 10:00 to 16:00. Address: Eichenstraße 4.

Berliner Kunst- und Nostalgiemarkt is located next to Friedrichstrasse. There are a lot of tourists here, so the prices are inflated. Opening hours: on weekends from 11:00 to 17:00.

Kunst-und Trödelmarkt is the oldest flea market in Berlin, located in the Tiergarten park. Among other things, there are decent displays of records and CDs. At Trödelmarkt you can find a real treasure for next to nothing. Collectors usually come here. Opening hours: on weekends from 10:00 to 17:00. Address: Straße des 17. Juni (at the end of the street).

The Trödelmarkt on Arkonaplatz is frequented by locals. It's not crowded here and prices are lower. They sell household items, inexpensive vintage clothing and vinyl records. Opening hours: Sundays from 10:00 to 16:00. Address: Arkonaplatz 1.

Flohmarkt am Mauerpark is still a young market, so there are few tourists here. Opening hours: Sunday from 09:00 to 18:00. Address: Bernauer Strasse 63-64.

Food and restaurants

In a Berlin restaurant, photo by Constanze Hallensleben

The Alpenstück Restaurant & Bakery at Gartenstrasse 9 prepares national dishes, makes real sausages, serves fresh pastries, excellent beer, German and Austrian wines.

Schneeweiß at Simplonstrasse 16 is considered an inexpensive establishment. They serve schnitzels and lamb meat, entrecote with vegetables, and pork with dumplings.

Reinhard's offers European and Russian cuisine and is famous for its fast service. Addresses: Poststraße, 28; Kurfürstendamm, 27; Koenigsallee, 56; Am Hamburger Bahnhof, 4.

Authentic German dishes can be ordered at the Maxwell restaurant (address: Gleimstraße 23). The restaurant's menu is divided into meat, fish, and vegetarian sections.

Traditional German schnitzels or goulash with dumplings, Sachertorte and classic apple strudel will be served at the concept cafe Einstein on the street "Under the Linden Trees" (address: Unter den Linden 42).

Local beer bars serve klops meatballs and Kotelett chops with German potato salad, an exotic “hakepeter” snack made from raw minced meat on bread; White beer is served with fruit syrup. Be sure to try the Eisbein pork knuckle - here it is prepared in a special way, boiled in beer. Try the Berlin "eintopf" - a thick vegetable soup with assorted smoked meats. Berliner donuts with powdered sugar and fruit marmalade filling are considered a cult dessert in the capital.

Berlin tram, photo bashirRANA

Getting around Berlin is quite convenient by public transport. The city has a metro that was built before the war. Ground transport will take you anywhere in Berlin. You need to worry about tickets in advance. For tourists, a 24-hour ticket is most suitable. It will allow you to travel throughout the city during the day at any distance. ...