Morning
Berliner Fernsehturm (Berlin TV Tower): The tallest free-standing structure in Germany, the Berlin TV Tower (or Alex Tower as it is sometimes known) is a remnant of east Berlin’s communist days and is one of the most instantly-distinguishable attractions in the German capital. Hop in a lift up to the top floor for panoramic, early-morning views across the whole city.
U-Bahn: Alexanderplatz
Berlin Zoo: One of the most famous zoos in Europe, with over 14,000 animals from 1500 different species, the zoo attracts over 3 million visitors each year. The zoo’s gates open at 09:00am every day, and it costs just 20 Euros for all-day access to both the zoo and aquarium, with special offers for students, children and more.
U-Bahn: Zoologischer Garten
Turkish Market: Every Tuesday and Friday, Kreuzberg hosts its famous Turkish Market alongside the Landwehrkanal. From the stalls you can buy home-made Turkish Delight, genuine middle-eastern coffee, tea and hummus, and much, much more. It is also one of the best spots in Berlin for people-watching, so sit down by the canal with some freshly-baked goods and a hot drink and enjoy music from local musicians.
U-Bahn: Schönleinstrasse
Afternoon
Curry 36: The currywurst is one of Berlin’s most iconic dishes, and serves as a great metaphor for the city’s new blend of traditional German heritage and cosmopolitan, international flavour. Curry 36 is the best of a very good bunch, located in hip, trendy Kreuzberg, and so popular that it has spawned a range of merchandise sporting its logo. Curry 36 is the perfect place for a cheap, quick lunch, with currywurst costing from just €2.50, take it to go or eat at one of the standing tables nearby.
U-Bahn: Mehringdamm
Holocaust Memorial: One of Berlin’s most iconic monuments, the Monument to the Murdered Jews of Europe is an abstract labyrinth which invites tourists to get lost inside. As you wander through, you’ll notice the concrete graves growing and shrinking around you. Beneath the memorial lies the poignant and heart-wrenching Ort Der, which gives a timeline of Jewish persecution under the Third Reich.
U-Bahn: Potsdamer Platz
Checkpoint Charlie: Originally a nickname given by allied soldiers to the east/west border crossing in Berlin, Checkpoint Charlie is an unassuming, yet vital part of the history of Berlin. Learn all about the history of the Berlin Wall, including the 1961 standoff between US and Soviet tanks which almost ignited a third World War, and see original artefacts from the time, including pieces which were used to try and break through the wall.
U-Bahn: Kochstraße
Evening
The Bird: Not one for vegetarians, The Bird is an awesome, New-York-style steak and burger house which imports its beef fresh from the USA. The American owners and their international staff give friendly, enthusiastic English-language service which will make you feel right at home. Order from a range of steaks, burgers, chicken wings, hand-cut fries and much more, washed down with a range of great beers and soft drinks. A word of warning, The Bird will leave you stuffed.
S-Bahn: Â Schoenhauser Allee
Die Weinerei: A concept so simple, you’ll be amazed that nobody has thought of it before. Customers pay a €2 deposit to rent a wine glass, then proceed to drink to their heart’s content, before leaving as much as they like in the tips jar on the way out. The bar is relaxed and charming, with a fantastic range of wines available, great if you’re on a budget.
U-Bahn: Rosenthaler Platz
Dr Pong: A rugged, dingy bar with minimal decor, Dr Pong certainly doesn’t look like it should be ranked among Berlin’s best bars, however if you’re after a fun and unique way to spend an evening in Berlin, then look no further. After grabbing a few cheap drinks (beers cost just €2), rent a ping-pong paddle from the bar and challenge the crowd to a game of multi-person elimination ping-pong. Remember, there can only be one winner!
U-Bahn: Eberswalder Strasse
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