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General Information GeneralSchöneberg
Information 2
Berlin Tube Map
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General Information GeneralSchöneberg
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History History
Berlin from 1237-1900 In tracing back a few hundred years, that, by the mid-fourteenth century, Enlightenment. Prussia’s third king,
it is possible to see how this came had become the most important Friedrich the Great, transformed
Berlin is a name which conjures many to be. Geographically speaking, trading town in Brandenburg, with Prussia - with Berlin as its capital -
images: a city at the centre of war, a Berlin came into existence as an its own City Council and Stadtbuch. into an enlightened, politically and
conflicted and divided city. A city, if insignificant trade town situated economically strong and religiously
you will, on the extremes. By the time of the Reformation,
in between the two older towns of tolerant state.
Berlin had become an important
Having been the axis of so much of Spandau and Cölln. This central
German town in its own right,
the world’s recent history, it might position worked to Berlin’s favour as
particularly special to many being
be easy to assume that this was all it continued to grow and enveloped
one of the first cities in Europe to
that Berlin had to offer in terms of both other towns within its own
embrace Lutheranism. Because of
historical interest. But this is not so. boundaries.
this, many French Huguenots fled
It has been said of Berlin that it is the Though Berlin can only date its own to Berlin bringing with them their
centre of Germany just as Germany foundation from the first extant intellectual and industrial talents.
is the centre of Europe. mention of Cölln in 1237, it was Berlin
Even today, though the name
“Huguenot” has become largely
insignificant in modern-day
Europe, this relationship between
French Protestants and Berlin
is still celebrated in Mitte’s
Gendarmenmarkt.
Here the Französicher Dom and
the Deutscher Dom, mirroring each
other in design, are monuments to
the great respect these two groups
had for each other. Despite the years Even defeats in the Thirty Years War
between Napoleon’s invasion of failed to completely destroy Prussia’s
Brandenburg and the Cold War, when supremacy. This in time transformed
Franco-German relations were at a the Hohenzollern dynasty into one of
very low ebb, it is nice to see these the greatest in Europe, related by
two rivals still facing each other in marriage to most of the great houses
friendship in the Gendarmenmarkt. on the continent.
Not only a trend-setter in religion, This strength, nobility and stature
Berlin became a leader in the were, along with the talents of
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History History
Otto von Bismarck, one of the main Jewish people of Berlin successfully Philosopher and scholar Moses In the Weimer years (1919-1933)
reasons why Berlin and its monarchy engaged in money lending and Mendelssohn arrived in Berlin in Jewish citizens of Germany and Berlin
became the head of the newly unified petty trade. They were confined 1743, and urged Jews to integrate enjoyed unprecedented levels of
Germany. to living in a ghetto in the Grosser into secular society and by 1778 these freedom, with plays by Max Reinhardt
Judenhof (Jew’s Court) area, and on enlightened ideas found expression taking the stage, Jewish composers
Despite the later failures of this
Judenstrasse (Jew Street). in the Jüdische Freischule (Jewish including Arnold Schoenberg’s works
system in the early years of the
Free School) that combined religious being performed, Max Liebermann
20th century, this age of a strong Following the devastation of the
learning with general education. and Lesser Ury creating beautiful
and enlightened German Empire, Thirty Years’ War and in an attempt
paintings and musicians such as the
led from Berlin, remained in the to achieve an economic upswing by Though the 1812 Emancipation
Comedian Harmonists at the height
European psyche for many years. increasing population, the Great Edict that declared Jewish people
of popularity. The Jewish population
Elector Friedrich Wilhelm allowed 50 equal citizens was in the most
continued to grow and by 1933
prosperous Jewish families that were part quickly retracted, there was
160,000 Jews called Berlin home.
Jewish History of Berlin expelled from Vienna to settle in the a general loosening on Prussia’s
Brandenburg region in 1671. They restrictions and growing equality for At the same time anti-Semitism was
The history of the Jewish community were permitted to stay under the its Jewish population. By 1869 the on the rise and the years leading up
is plagued by episodic persecution, condition that they pay an annual new North German Confederation to the ascendance of Nazi power saw
Jews often being used as a scapegoat protection fee, engage in only passed a law on the equal rights of increasing attacks on members of the
for economic and social woes. certain businesses and worship only religious confession Jewish community. State-
By 1295 Jewish people in Berlin were in their own homes. Finally, a Jewish and declared the backed persecution
barred from many professions and community of Berlin was officially emancipation of ensued after the
effectively forbidden to become founded. Jewish people Nazis took power in
members of the artisan guilds. within its territory 1933, and with the
Despite suffering restrictions on
and by 1871 German 1935 Nüremberger
Throughout the 14th to 16th centuries religion, residence and family size
Jews had equal Gesetze (Nuremberg
Jews were expelled from Berlin and as well as extra taxes, the Jewish
rights. Within a Laws) the Jewish
let back in time and again, accused population of Berlin grew and by
few years members citizens of Germany
of acts such as the rampant plague 1700 the city’s Jewish slums had
of the Jewish were effectively
in Berlin and Brandenburg, which approximately 1,000 residents. In
community rose to deprived of social and
had been sweeping across Europe; 1714 the first synagogue of Berlin was
prominence in government, many economic rights via the introduction
and host desecration; which meant dedicated. As excellent merchants
as close advisors to the Kaiser. By of apartheid-like classifications of
that Berlin had virtually no Jewish and bankers, by halfway through the
the turn of the century, there were “racial purity”.
community for a century. 18th century the Jewish community
more than 110,000 Jews in Berlin,
totaled close to 2,000 and they had Between 1933 and 1939 Jewish
Between expulsions and being comprising more than 5% of the total
become among the richest people in community life increased as Jewish
banned from most other trades, the population.
Berlin. citizens were forced to send their
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History History
children to segregated schools and This night is known as citizens were banned from public and even by 1988 the East German
forbidden from interacting with Reichskristallnacht – Night of Broken transport, their food rations Jewish community had less than 200
non-Jews. Those who could see the Glass, a nationwide attack on the were reduced and thousands members.
writing on the wall and had money Jewish people that resulted in the were deported, mostly to the
In West Berlin, the German Jewish
escaped while they could, though death of 36 of Berlin’s Jews, many Theresienstadt and Auschwitz
community had about 6,000
even such escape was a limited were beaten on the streets while concentration camps.
members, constituting
opportunity, as other European passers-by looked on; the destruction
By the end of the war, the largest Jewish
countries, the US and Palestine all of 23 synagogues and the wrecking of
Hitler’s mass genocide community in Germany.
restricted Jewish immigration. hundreds of shops and businesses.
had reduced Berlin’s After the two Berlin
German Jewish citizens were then
In retaliation for the assassination Jewish population by Jewish communities
required to pay one million marks to
of German diplomat Ernst vom Rath, around 96 per cent to were reunited with the
repair the damages.
who was killed by a 17-year-old about 6,500. Survivors fall of the Berlin Wall,
Polish-Jew, Herschel Grynsypan, the By 1941 it was compulsory for Jewish managed to escape the federal government
Reich Minister of Propaganda Joseph citizens to wear a yellow star at all death often through approved refugee status
Goebbels called for a nationwide times, and the first mass deportations being hidden by gentile for Jews from the former
pogrom on November 9th 1938. from Berlin marked the beginning of families at great Soviet Union and since
the systematic large-scale genocide personal risk or by then over 50,000 Jewish
of German Jews. Before the end of evading final round-ups people have immigrated
the war over 55,000 Jewish residents through legal conditions to Germany, with Berlin
of Berlin were deported. such as irreplaceable more than doubling its
skills vital to the war congregation members
In January 1941 the Wannsee
effort or being married to a non-Jew. to over 12,000.
Conference resolved and planned the
Only about 2,000 returned from the
so-called Endlösung der Judenfrage Since reunification several steps
concentration camps.
(Final Solution to the Jewish have been taken to preserve Jewish
Question) – the removal of all Jews In 1946 the Jewish community was history including the opening of the
to the East and, implicitly, their officially recognized again as a Jewish Museum and the decision by
extermination. The Final Solution public body, and a large number of the German Bundestag to erect the
began to be put into effect, and Eastern European Jews immigrated Denkmal für die ermordeten Juden
life for the Jewish citizens in Berlin to Berlin. As a result of intense Europas (Memorial for the Murdered
became increasingly unbearable. anti-Semitic persecution in East Jews of Europe) according to the
Germany, many members of the design by Peter Eisenman.
All Jewish schools and institutions
Jewish community fled to the west.
were closed down, the Jewish
As a result, the Jewish community of
community was disbanded, Jewish
East Berlin was almost non-existent,
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History History
The puzzle of the Berlin Wall punishable by death. There was the historic port in Cape Town, South 21 different countries; previously it
nothing the Western Berlin police Africa; the entrance of the Basilica was only allowed for West Germans.
An anti-capitalistic protective barrier could do to stop this. Fatima Sanctuary in Portugal; The Gallery is not just for the artistic
with concrete pads, barbwire and the Vatican garden; the 6km long exploration of the Wall’s demise, but
watchtowers held the East German A sad chapter in German history was
green stream Cheonggyecheon in for the memory of the dead refugees.
population from running away. put to an end when the Wall was
South Korean city of Seoul; the EU During the Wall’s 20th anniversary
torn down in 1989, and as a result
“A wall is a hell of a lot better than Parliament in Belgium; as well as former artists were brought to the
the unification of Germany ensued.
war,” declared John F. Kennedy upon places in Strasbourg, Riga, London, capital city to remove the traces
Of over 100 watchtowers three
hearing about the construction of Canberra and Montréal. The biggest of the last 18 years. The graffiti
are kept. Even some of the former
the Berlin Wall. Wall piece outside of Germany is has suffered extensive damage
border crossings
Nevertheless, located in “Freedom Park” near due to visitors and attacks from
are still clearly
for about Arlington, Virginia. Mauerspechten (wall woodpeckers).
recognizable, with
28 years the A €2.5 million renovation is underway
the most well- The well-known East Side Gallery was
160km long and should be ready by Autumn
known transition painted in 1990 by 118 artists from
wall encased a at Checkpoint
whole nation. Charlie.
Between 1949 The wall was
and 1961, broken up and
2.5million the remaining
p e o p l e sections becoming
escaped from memorials and
the German museums for the
Democratic Republic (DDR) by trying fallen. The Todesstreifen (death
to get over the wall, or hiding in zone) can still be seen in many
traffic that was allowed to go through places. Some have been left as
the barriers. The accurate number of large areas of brown, uncultivated
people who were shot down when land, while other parts have been
they tried to escape varies according turned into parks. The pieces of
to different sources. Many memorials wall that were torn down and
give an account of the GDR fugitives’ demolished were sent to museums
tragic destiny: bleeding to death and universities across the world,
after being shot by border patrol and made into souvenirs for tourists.
soldiers. Escape from the German
republic was classified as treason, Wall sections decorate, for example,
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History History
2009. The maintenance of the wall should definitely go to the following BEARLIN Capital of the furry teddies
plays a major role, since it is both places. They will clear all important
an important monument to the questions and satisfy your thirst for Looking back on Berlin’s
reunification, as well as a Certificate knowledge. history begs the question
of European and world culture. of how the bear became
its symbol. Unfortunately
Anyone can acquire a valuable City Museum of Berlin it is not clear what was
memory in the form of a piece of the www.stadtmuseum.de here first; Berlin or the
Wall. Pieces come in different sizes, Am Köllnischen Park 5 bear. It wasn’t until 1280
which are also available online, up U-Bahn/S-Bahn: Jannowitzbrücke when the bear became the
to $150. However, if you want to see Tel: +49 3 024 002 159 heraldic animal of Berlin.
more than just a 2x2cm piece, the Tue, Thu-Sun 10am-6pm Today its image is still
opportunity as a tourist in Berlin is Wed 12-8pm used for advertisements
huge: at Potsdamer Platz, Pariser Price: €4 on different logos,
Platz next to the Brandenburger certifications,
Gate, in Mauerpark along Bernauer Haus am Checkpoint Charlie
newspapers, publications,
Strasse (National Monument, U www.mauermuseum.de
agencies, stamps and
Bernauerstr.) and in Mühlenstraße U-Bahn: Stadtmitte or Kochstraße
even more in and around
with the longest preserved part of Tel: +49 302 537 250
Berlin. The bear even
the wall about 1.3km. Mo- Su 9am- 8pm
became a permanent part
Price: €7.50-12.50
Those interested in the history of of the city’s flag in 1908.
the GDR and the fall of the Wall
Chapel of Reconciliation Berlin bear art is scattered
www.kapelle-versoehnung.de all over the city in the
Bernauerstr. 4 form of sculptures, plastic
Tel: +49 304 636 034 models and architecture,
Service to remember the victims most of which are hidden
(Sunday 10am) amongst the less tourist-
Tue-Sun 10am-5pm prone areas. Some have
also just been rebuilt
Topographie of Terror after they got eliminated
www.topographie.de or damaged during the
Niederkirchnerstr. 8 Nazi regime. Today,
Tel: +49 3 025 450 950 especially in Prenzlauer
Oct-Apr 10am-6pm, May-Sep 10am- Berg, there are many furry
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History History
inhabitants decorating the appear as feared creatures but rather Some of the bear art pieces are also
streets. In the middle of as cute clumsy bears, which delight used for charity. In 2001 Eva Herlitz
the public Volkspark lives the pedestrians who pass over the had the idea to paint bear sculptures,
the most colorful bear bridge. Around this area small cafes sell them at auctions and give the
in Berlin. He was born in and a cozy restaurant at the Spree money to UNICEF and other children
1970 and fell pray to some River invite everybody to sit down aid organizations. In this way they
graffiti artists in the last and relax. could donate more than two million
couple of years. However dollars in the last eight years. Jackie
One of the most important bear art
they decided to keep him Chan even brought the idea of the
pieces is W. Sutkowski’s refurbished
blue and call him Käpt’n United Buddy Bears to Hong Kong.
fountain, which was rebuilt after
Blaubär (Captain Blue Everybody can support this project,
being destroyed during World War
bear) which is now a great take part in the competition and
II. Sutowski made his artwork out
attraction for children maybe get the chance to give a
of red Lava Tuff stone which gives
who know this bear from buddy bear a new fur colour.
it an interesting pattern. This
TV.
fountain is decorated with one bear If you want to get a shot of this
At the Moabiter Bridge in the center and eight smaller bears famous Berlin symbol- just keep your
(Bartningallee) there around, almost as if the mother bear eyes open and wherever you may go
are four different bears is watching her children frolic. you will always find a bear.
designed by four sculptors
each at a different
location. The bridge was
built between 1893 and
1894 and was rebuilt due
to war damage between
1980 and 1981. The stone
bears are positioned on
all fours and appear to
be giant when standing
in front of them, their
huge paws and enormous
claws making them
appear even larger. Their
bodies look big and round,
nevertheless they do not
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Survival Guide Survival Guide
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Survival Guide Survival Guide
don’t you cycle in Berlin? It’s flatter days, but if you are spending a few markets are quite cheap. • Keep a good lookout when riding
than London and less chaotic than weeks or longer in Berlin it is well- alongside pedestrians or cars. Both
• Look before walking across a bike
Amsterdam. With over 800kms of flat worth investing your money in a bike. can be dangerous and you’re in the
path. Sometimes cyclists look for
land, parks, gardens and bike routes, worst position to go flying.
The average price to rent is €15 per someone to get angry with and will
look no further than Berlin’s cycling
day, and most places will hold onto verbally lash out. • Enjoy riding around Berlin. It is
network.
a cash deposit or your passport until good fun, keeps you fit and gets you
• Buy a bike ticket if you need to take
Many hostels will recommend or rent you bring the bike back. around with a lot less stress.
your bike on an S-or U-Bahn (outside
out bikes from a few hours to a few
The best place to look for second- of rush hour). Bikes are free when
hand bikes are flea-markets, you have a monthly ticket.
particularly Mauer Park,
• Get off your bike and walk in busy
where you can pick up a
areas, or ride on the road.
bike for as little as €40.
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Survival Guide Survival Guide
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Day Trips Day Trips
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Day Trips Day Trips
Freibad Müggelsee water is natural and flat. It’s great there to gawk will be treated with for €2-5. On a sunny day it can get
for throwing a ball around and some hostility, so make sure you’re quite busy, so head there early to
Fürstenwalder Damm 838, playing horse with your friends. As ready to fully participate in this claim a spot.
Rahnsdorf. Tel: +49 0 306 487 777. the beach does get quite crowded, aspect of German culture if you
S-Bahn: Friedrichshagen, Tram 61: If you can’t beat your sightseeing
especially on sunny weekends, choose to visit the nudist area.
Strandbad Müggelsee. May-Sept addiction, nearby is the Allied
getting there early to claim a prime
9am-6pm. Cost: €4; €2 reductions. Krumme Lanke museum, good for a visual
sun-bathing spot is recommended.
understanding of the Berlin Airlift
Though not Berlin’s most central From Alexanderplatz, the trip takes S-Bahn: Schlachtensee. Lake: Open and American presence in the city
swimming area, this is a perfectly about 45 minutes. all day, every day; free. during much of the 20th century.
pleasant sunny day outing. With The Freikörperkultur (nudist) Also close by is the Wannsee Villa,
Allied Museum: www.
volleyball and basketball courts, section of the beach is separated where the Nazis mapped out the
alliiertenmuseum.de. U-Bahn: Oskar-
snacks and drinks for sale, and a from the Freibad (open-air bathing fate of Europe’s Jews in the 1930s.
Helena-Helm. Mon-Tue, Thu-Sun
restaurant close by, this inland beach area) by 200m of forest. If you’re All in all an enjoyable day out worth
10am-6pm.
on the north shore of East Berlin’s interested in experiencing some of having if just to see another side to
biggest lake boasts a large sun- Germany’s nudist culture get off Wannsee Villa at Am Grossex the multifaced city.
bathing and swimming area. the tram at Fürstenwalder Damm/ Wannsee 56-58. Haus der Wannsee
Müggelseedamm for the FKK section Konferenze: www.ghwk.de. Mon-Sun
Although a sandy forefront, the
of the beach. Tourists who are just 10am-6pm; free. To get there, catch
Bus114 from Wannsee, get off at stop
“Haus der Wannsee-Konferenz”.
If you’re looking for a change from
the busy and hectic city centre, a
short trip to Schlachtensee Station is
a great way to spend a relaxing (and
free!) day out. Only a 100 metre walk
from the station, Krumme Lanke
is surrounded by the trees of the
Grunewald Forest and can provide
the tranquillity and rest your feet so
much desire. It’s possible to swim,
row and walk around in the area, and
you can grab lunch from a cheap but
cheerful café next to the station.
Currywurst, bratwurst and more go
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Day Trips Day Trips
S a c h s e n h a u s e n thought-provoking and encompasses that the Nazis deemed as racially the GDR the remains of some 10,000
Concentration Camp and the many horrors of recent German or biologically inferior such as prisoners were found in mass graves.
history. homosexuals and Jews. The extensive horrors which took
Memorial place at Sachsenhausen during the
The camp was built in 1936 under During this period, tens of thousands
www.gedehstaette-sachsenhausen. Nazi and GDR years are memorialised
Reichsfuhrer SS Heinrich Himmler died at the camp from starvation,
de. Memorial and Museum by the national monument that
as a model for future concentration forced labour, mistreatment and
Sachsenhausen. Straße der towers over the grounds.
camps. Between 1936 and 1945 extermination. Soviet
Nationen 22, Oranienberg. S-Bahn: more than 200,000 people were and Polish forces The barren landscape
Orianenberg. Tel: +49 33 012 000. interned at Sachsenhausen. Initially, liberated the camp on and the original barracks,
Daily 8.30am-6pm. Admission free. the majority of these prisoners April 22, 1945 - sadly prison and security fencing
Reminders of Berlin’s turbulent past were political opponents of Hitler’s however, 300 of the are eerily suggestive of
are all over the city, however a visit to government: communists, social remaining inmates died the extensive suffering
Sachsenhausen Concentration Camp democrats and trade unionists. This from malnutrition and which occurred. In
near Oranienberg is particularly soon widened to include anyone illnesses before they had particular the grim
the chance to leave. The sights of the mortuary,
mass grave in which these living quarters and
prisoners are interred is infirmary invite visitors to
a particularly distressing contemplate experiences
part of the camp. of the prisoners. Invest
in the audio guide for €3
The horrors of
in order to fully grasp
Sachsenhausen did not
the harrowing historical
cease after the fall of the
importance of the site.
Nazis. From August 1945
First-hand accounts
the Soviet secret police
displayed in the museums
reopened the camp for
and played on the audio
the detention of their
guide serve to emphasise
own political prisoners
the traumatic effect
and war criminals;
Hitler’s fascist rule had on
this included anyone
millions of lives.
suspected of opposition.
By 1950 more than 60,000 prisoners A visit to Sachsenhausen is an eye-
of war, suspected former Nazis and opening experience which reiterates
Soviet political dissenters, were the cold reality of World War II and
incarcerated there. After the fall of the subsequent Soviet regime.
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Mitte Information
Unter den Linden is one of Berlin’s Platz is perhaps one of the busiest
most famous Boulevards, a 1.5km- places found in Berlin. Cluttered with
long stretch panning east from the shops, a central station and various
Brandenburg Gate up to Museum fountains, it is something to be seen
Island. Developed as a showpiece if only for the novelty. And of course,
since the 18th it is home to
century, where the communist
it was then commissioned TV
used as a horse- Tower - a great
riding route landmark to
to Tiergarten, locate yourself
the road has with when lost.
become a
Pretty much
gallery for
deserted during
some of Berlin’s
the GDR era,
greatest sights.
the Spandauer
Museum Island Vorstadt has been
is a must see, overtaken by
with some of squatters, artists
the worlds and anyone
finest art and sculpture. Whilst with a flair for renovation. Its focal
in the area, a quick diversion point lies in Hackeschen Markt and
to the governmental quarter of the bustling streets surrounding it,
Berlin is defiantly worthwhile. The crammed with busy (and expensive)
Spreebogen, a horseshoe shaped restaurants and shops. The area to
bend of the Spree River, houses the west – Grosse Hamburger Strasse
several buildings running in an east- and the touristy Oranienburger
west direction to symbolically tie the Strasse – formed the heart of Berlin’s
two halves of the city together. The pre-war Jewish district. At the end
Reichstag, situated in the middle of of Oranienburger Strasse lies the
this unison, is a favourite amongst graffiti-covered Tachles, an anarchic
visitors, as the glass dome gives 1990s artists’ squat still preserved as
spectacular views across the city. such today, providing a good starting
point for Berlin’s nightlife.
Nicknamed ‘Alex’ by locals, Alexander
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Arts & Culture Arts & Culture
Today, the Gate serves as a tourist a symbolic central point of Europe,
must-see, with families and with trains coming from Rome and
travellers posing for photos in front Copenhagen, Moscow and Paris.
of the impressive structure.
Hop on any one of the S-Bahn lines
Berlin Hauptbanhof going through this station and you
will get a great tour of the main sights
www.hbf-berlin.de. Europaplatz 1. of Mitte, including the Reichstag,
Nicknamed the “glass cathedral” the Spree and the Siegessäule. If you
by locals, this central station offers don’t have a need to travel, simply
not only an easy route to almost a quick trip here to look around is
anywhere in Berlin and Europe, worthwhile as the architecture is
but also a master class in glass and remarkable.
steel architecture. The Gothic-style
construction was built primarily
Brandenburg Gate torch-lit marches; and with the wall for the 2006 football World Cup,
enclosing the Gate in the Eastern and hosts many shops, eateries and
Pariser Platz, S-Bahn: Unter den sector in 1961, it soon became a
Linden, Bus 100/200. meeting points one would expect in
symbol of the city’s division. Nearby such a large station.
Designed by Carl Gotthard Langhans observation posts became a hot spot
and built in 1791, the Brandenburg for visiting politicians, including Designed by two Hamburg-based
Gate has become a focal point in Kennedy and Thatcher, giving them architects, Meinhard von Gerkan and
Berlin’s turbulent history. Originally, a rare glimpse at life on the other Volkin Marg, it has become Europe’s
it was recognised as a symbol of side. biggest train hub, boasting a capacity
German solidarity, as it looks out onto of 300,000 travellers, running on
Sitting on top of the Gate is the 1,100 trains per day. Unlike other
the impressive Siegessäule, marking equally historic Quadriga, the horse-
Prussian military victories. With stations in Berlin and across Europe,
drawn chariot that was once snatched its cleanliness and peacefulness are
many of Berlin’s main roads leading up by Napoleon and relocated to
towards it, the Gate is something dominant, with little to no graffiti or
France (only to be returned to its rubbish in sight.
almost impossible to miss. original home a few years later). The
The site has witnessed many GDR also did its own fiddling with the Since its initial drawing-board stages,
important events in Berlin’s history, statue, including the removal of the the station was always planned
including being a meeting place for cross and it being turned around to to observe a north-south, east-
revolutionaries in 1848 ad 1918; a face the West during the cold-war west axis, cutting through the long
favoured rallying point for the Nazis’ era. circle line. This axis now serves as
31 Mitte Mitte 32
Arts & Culture Arts & Culture
Neue Wache Teeming with important historical the building isn’t packed with Nikolaiviertel
(New Guard House) sites, Unter den Linden is indisputably tourists.
fascinating yet sometimes
(St Nicholas Quarter)
Unter den Linden 4. S-Bahn: Unter Bombing from the Second World War
exhausting. The Neue Wache (or New U-Bahn: Alexanderplatz. Combined
den Linden. Daily 10am – 6pm. left the building scarred, and as a
Guard House) is perfect for quiet ticket for Nikolaikirche, Knoblaus-
Entrance Free. result, in need of serious repair. From
contemplation: a momentary repose Haus and Ephraim-Palais: €3-5. Free
1960, the GDR restored the building,
amidst a hectic day of sightseeing. Wednesdays.
renaming it “Memorial to the Victims
The mourning sculpture by Käthe
of Fascism and Militarism”. Inside the A short walk from bustling
Kollwitz stands alone in the centre
chamber, an eternal flame burned. Alexanderplatz one finds a quiet
of the room, as a powerful symbol of
In 1969 the Neue Wache housed the square centred around the
the emotional torment that ensued
remains of an Unknown Soldier and Nikolaikirche and Nikolaikirchplatz.
after the Second World War.
concentration camp prisoner. In Although the so-called Nikolaiviertel
It was the first building designed by 1993, after German reunification, appears to be one of the last
the important German architect Karl the hall was declared as the “Central remainders of medieval Berlin, aside
Friedrich Schinkel in Berlin (1816- Memorial of the Federal Republic of from the Nikolaikirche, founded in
1818). It notably emphasizes the Germany”. Having been described as 1240, most of the original buildings
popular German Neo-Classical style a “monumentally void interior hall”, in this area were either destroyed by
of architecture, which swept through the Neue Wache is nonetheless bombing or pulled down during the
Germany in the 19th century. Until worth a visit for its atmospheric and 1930s and Soviet era. In a small twist
the end of the monarchy in 1918, emotional resonance. of irony, many buildings were rebuilt
the Neue Wache functioned as the in 1987 by the GDR government
royal guard house. Since then, this Fernsehturm to look like the originals, using
compact, yet simultaneously stately w w w. b e r l i n e r f e r n s e h t u r m . d e . photographs from the 1920s as
building has served as a memorial for Panoramastrasse 1a. U-Bahn: reference.
victims of war. Alexanderplatz. Tel: +49 2 423 333. For historic interest, there is a series
The German architect Heinrich Mar-Oct 9am-12am, Nov-Feb 10am- of placards on various buildings
Tessenow first made changes to 12am. Price: €4.50-9.50. in the area giving information on
the building in 1930-31, creating a Towering above Berlin, the personalities who lived there or
“Memorial for Those Who Fell in the Fernsehturm or T.V. tower serves as events which took place. In terms of
Great War”. He inserted the oculus a beacon for visitors and locals alike museums, there is the Nikolaikirche,
in the centre of the ceiling, through to orientate themselves, since it can the Knoblaus-Haus and the Ephraim-
which light filters into the dark be seen from all corners of the city. Palais, together offering a fairly
chamber, creating an atmospheric The structure offers 360˚ views of comprehensive portrait of Berlin’s
Neue
and almost eerie sensation – when Berlin with a rotating café on the history from its foundation to the
33 Mitte Mitte 34
Arts & Culture Arts & Culture
nineteenth century. the cross remained. The Memorial to the Murdered Jews of Europe
This is a neighbourhood that plays www.stiftung-denkmal.de. Stresemannstraße 90. Tel: +49 3 026 394 311.
on its medieval heritage as much as Memorial: Accessible at any time. Information Centre: Apr-Sep 10am-8pm,
possible, from cafés proclaiming to Oct-Mar 10am-7pm. Admission free.
have been established in the 13th
century, to antiquarian booksellers The Memorial to the Murdered Jews of Europe is one of the largest in the city
taking advantage of the archaic and consists of 2,711 concrete blocks covering 19,000 square metres. Each
atmosphere. However, there is block varies slightly in height and is built on unevenly sloping ground. The
an obvious attempt to cash in on memorial is accessible from all sides, allowing visitors to find their own path
this – you will find a lot of souvenir through the grid pattern, although there are specially marked routes through
shops around Nikolaikirchplatz and the memorial for wheelchair users.
the restaurants tend to be a little The Information Centre, located under the south-east corner of the memorial,
overpriced. The square also backs gives an explicit and emotional account of Jewish persecution between
onto the river which offers more 1933 and 1945. Photographs,
restaurants and a nice spot to eat or personal accounts and biographies
rest. emphasise the harsh reality of
upper floor, completing one rotation the harassment, expulsion, and
every 30 minutes. extermination of entire families.
Here you can find information
The Fernsehturm is 368m high and
that documents the geographic
was completed in 1969. The tower
spread of genocide as well as being
was built with the intention of
presented with the number of
demonstrating how technologically
victims from each occupied country
advanced the East was. This symbol
further highlighting the extent of
of progress became a source of
these horrific events. There is also
embarrassment for the German
a room where visitors can search
government. When hit with direct
for victims’ names in a database
sunlight, the tower creates the
that contains more than three
reflection of a cross, the same
million entries.
symbol the government had tried so
hard to banish. The West Germans Although admission is free, audio
called this “the Pope’s Revenge” guides available for €3. If you visit
since all crosses had been removed on a Sunday at 4pm you can take
from East German churches. No the guided tour, in English, also at
matter what the East Germans did, a cost of €3.
35 Mitte Mitte 36
Arts & Culture Arts & Culture
Hamburger Bahnhof and the strong association Beuys works on display from pop arts front
had with some of the art world’s man Andy Warhol, including ‘Mao’
w w w. s m b . m u s e u m / s m b / h b f / . most unconventional and reputable (1973). The real gems are found in
U-Bahn/S-Bahn: Hauptbahnhof. artists. the quotes scattered around from the
Tel: +49 3 039 783 411. Open: charismatic and controversial Joseph
Tues-Sun:10am-6pm. Price: €6/€3 A modest glimpse into the bizarre
Beuys, the clashing placement of
concession. and borderline ridiculous nature
life-like pieces opposing walls of
of contemporary modern art itself,
An abstract collection of works, absurdity, and the general conceited
the gallery undeniably reeks of
from German artist and theorist nature of many of the passing
inspiration and creativity that either
Joseph Beuys to Andy Warhol, visitors.
inspires or repels the passing masses.
are displayed beneath the roof of Although guaranteed to split the Neue Synagoge
this former railway station turned
contemporary art museum. Open
opinions of visitors, the collection is (New Synagogue)
well worth a look if not for ‘what is’
since 1996, the surreal collection displayed then ‘why’ it is displayed. www.cjudaicum.de, Oranienburger
has been in the making since the Str 28-30. U-Bahn/S-Bahn:
mid 1970’s, and highlights both the Most visitors pop in for a quick Oranienburger Tor or Friedrichstr. and damaged, this synagogue was
limitless boundaries of abstract art glimpse of the numerous original Tel. 030 880 28 316. Sun-Thurs salvaged by Wilhelm Krutzfeld, the
10am-6pm, Fri: 10am-5pm. Closed district police chief of the time,
on Saturdays and Jewish Holidays. who forced the arsonists to leave
Cupola open to visitors April- claiming it was under protection as
September. Price: €1-5. a city landmark.
The New Synagogue of Berlin with Although services continued
its golden cupola rises high above afterwards until 1940, it was then
the center of the city. Though it has taken over and used as a storage
faced desecration and destruction, place for uniforms. Consequently in
it still remains a city landmark. Built 1943, the synagogue was bombed by
in 1866, the synagogue was once the the Allied Forces, severely damaging
center of Jewish worship housing it. In 1958, the destroyed main hall
over 3000 congregants. was torn down, only the front of the
The rise of the Nazis, though, building remaining.
hindered this community. During the However in 1988, the main dome
November 1938 pogroms, known as and the two corner towers were
Reichs-Kristallnacht, a night where restored to look exactly as they
most Jewish sites were vandalized
37 Mitte Mitte 38
Arts & Culture Arts & Culture
did before the destruction. It now Reichstag across the city. offered on Tuesdays (outside of
functions as a community center parliamentary sessions), book in
Platz der Republik 1. S-Bahn: Unter The Reichstag was built in the late
and contains a permanent exhibit, advance.
den Linden. Tel: +49 3 022 730 027. 19th century as a parliamentary
titled “Open ye the Gates”, which
Mon-Sun 8am-12am. office, but in reality had little purpose
features pictures and documents on
under the reign of Kaiser Wilhelm I.
Jewish history, and more specifically One of Berlin’s most striking In 1918 the Weimar Republic was
the synagogue’s history, as well as landmarks, the Reichstag, which declared here from a window by
showcasing artifacts found during today houses the German parliament, Philip Scheidemann and for the
the restoration. The upper floor is has undoubtedly played a pivotal role next 15 years it controlled the first
used for temporary exhibits as well in Berlin’s history and is definitely democratic body in Germany. The
as ceremonies and lectures. The worth a visit. The original imposing Reichstag fire in 1933 however gave
synagogue is still used for services, neoclassical facade is contrasted Hitler the perfect opportunity to
though only seating eighty members with a striking glass cupola supported exercise an emergency degree, thus
as it is no longer the main synagogue by a soaring mirrored column, which effectively allowing him dictatorial
of the Jewish community. offers stunning 360-degree views power over the country.
At the end of World War II the Buchstabenmuseum
Reichstag was symbolic of the
Allied victory, when Russian soldiers
(Museum of Letters)
positioned the Soviet flag on the w w w. b u c h s t a b e n m u s e u m . d e .
roof. The building was then left Leipzigerstrasse 49. U-Bahn:
mainly unoccupied until the fall Spittelmarkt. Tel: +49 1 774 201 587.
of the wall in 1990, when the View by appointment only.
government of a reunified Germany
If you are interested in letterforms,
finally decided to resurrect it as its
Buchstabenmuseum is worth a visit.
new parliament. Following extensive
The museum is made up of two rooms
remodeling under plans from British
of large-scale type examples, mostly
architect Sir Norman Foster, it once
interesting signage from buildings.
again provides a cornerstone of
The space is small, but there is still
the Regierungsviertel (government
plenty to look at. They have a good
quarter) in Berlin.
variety of different type styles, from
Queues are expected, arrive very modern san serifs to black letter.
early or late in the day to avoid It is great to see attention brought
disappointment. Tours in English to an area of design which is often
39 Mitte Mitte 40
Arts & Culture Arts & Culture
Tacheles from all over the world that head lease has recently expired however,
there to work and live. and with the property owner’s bank
www.tacheles.de. Oranienburgerstr. seeking administration rights, it is
54-56a. U-Bahn: Oranienburgerstr. The Kunsthaus (art-house) Tacheles
more uncertain than ever before as
Tel: +49 302 826 185. was built at the beginning of the 20th
to the future of this unique cultural
century as a large enclosed space for
Originally created as a non-profit site. Problems are also had with the
small businesses, before becoming
organisation, a vision that it still various bars, also on site, which all
a department store, and has since
retains to this day, Tacheles is originally had leases agreed with
served many purposes including
currently a key centre the Tacheles organisation. Currently
housing an SS office.
for art creation and only one bar continues to pay rent
The building was
exhibition near the and this causes a large amount of
damaged during the
centre of Berlin. tension.
Second World War
Not to be confused and only occasionally Despite the ongoing legal wrangling
with the separate used throughout the and the internal problems it has,
collection of bars, Cold War. The section Tacheles still has plans and high
commonly referred to that stands today is hopes for the future. These include
as Studio 54, that are just a small part of the creation of a foundation to
scattered behind and the original building. support non-profit cultural projects;
in the lower section the formation of a limited company
of the building, it In 1990, shortly
to outsource economic activities;
aims to focus on the after the collapse
the creation of a sculpture park
creative processes of the wall and two
on the roof and the expansion of
behind art and tries months before the
brand marketing to gain revenue for by profitable organisations and
to do away with the building was due to
cultural projects. establishments with a heavily-
organisational ties be demolished, an
that official museums artists’ initiative Tacheles is key to retaining the refined corporate image. Despite
hold. Housed in an old group called Tacheles, spirit of cooperation and the ‘art for this though, and the uncertain future
department store, the building has a which translates as art’s sake’ attitude brought about ahead, Tacheles is keen to take the
strong appeal with graffiti adorning plain or honest in Yiddish, occupied in its formation almost 20 years original aims of the organisation into
every visible space, and all sorts of the building. From then on the future ago. Yet whilst this is an admirable the future and create an artistic
characters roaming freely within. of the building, and the non-profit position to take, and arguably the legacy for generations to come.
As a result of its volatile history and organisation housed within, has been cornerstone that makes Tacheles
unique atmosphere it holds a strong far from certain. A lease was agreed such an attraction today, it is also
attraction for tourists, especially with the current owners, with a token an aspect that causes it to struggle
backpackers, as well as the artists rent of €0.50 paid each month. This in a modern world dominated
41 Mitte Mitte 42
Arts & Culture Food & Drink
Hackesche Höfe
Berlin’s Street Food
Rosenthaler Strasse 40-41. S-Bahn:
Hackesche Markt. Berlin is no way lacking in the fast-food culture. In fact, it may be the best
The ivy grows up the walls, framing part of Berlin for the wallet-weary backpacker. On any street, travellers
the windows and even trying to can find stands selling Döner kebab, China-Box or Currywurst.
creep into them. One courtyard has In a country known for its hearty meat and potato dishes, Chinese take-
a children’s play area, another has a out may seem an odd choice but the heaping dish of noodles, veggies and
small fountain. fried egg is now equally as typical as a rotwurst stand.
A newly refurbished complex Berlin loves its simple currywurst dish; a sausage sprinkled with curry
of buildings that run from powder and smothered in plenty of ketchup. You can ask to forego the
Oranienburgerstrasse and sauce if it’s not to your taste.
Rosenthaler as far as Sophienstrasse
is what makes up the 20th century Chips are found on many a street corner as well. Besides the usual dipping
Hackesche Höfe (Höfe means yard) sauces of mustard, ketchup or mayo, many stands try to shake it up a
complex. little with some unique creations. These could range from mango curry
to peanut sauce, jalapeno-cheese or even apple sauce. The best location
Originally designed by Kurt Berendt to try out these condiments is Becker’s Fritten, located on Oranienburger
and August Endell in 1906, the Höfe interconnecting courtyards are filled
with bars, restaurants, boutiques and Strasse across from Studio 54.
was damaged during the war, but
has since been restored to a place of even its own theatre. The courtyards Another form of quick and cheap eating happens in the numerous Berlin
many means. are beautiful and green, transporting bakeries. This is most often a healthier and incredibly satisfying way to
you away from the hustle and bustle eat through the day. For only a few dozen cents, most bakeries offer up
Although the buildings above are of the city. great fresh bread. Not to be missed are the pumpkin seed rolls. There are
offices and apartments, the nine also donuts, danishes and cakes, but the highlight in these establishments
Designer shops sport trendy clothes,
quirky ornaments and arty books. are the fresh sandwiches. Diners can shell out no more than €2 for either
The Ampelman store is hidden in one a slice of baked bread with cold mince, pickles and onions or large
of the courtyards where you can buy sandwiches layered with sliced eggs, lettuce and herbed mayo.
merchandise with the little green While Berlin can be a little pricy in the way of admission fees and
‘walk’ and red ‘don’t walk’ men. shopping, be assured that you will have no problem eating cheap, though
In a city developing so fast, and new it may not always be very healthy. Thankfully, the city provides a great
concrete structures appearing daily, setting for exploring on foot, allowing you to lap up these goodies and
it’s nice to have a hidden piece of then burn them away.
natural beauty in the city.
43 Mitte Mitte 44
Food & Drink Food & Drink
Zur Letzten Instanz Theodor Tucher Those looking for something else
will find it hard to choose between
www.zurletzteninstanz.de. Waisenstrasse 14-16. U-Bahn: Klosestrasse, www.thementeam.de/neu/tucher/. a stylized currywurst plate, gigantic,
Alexanderplatz. Tel: +49 302 425 528. Mon-Sat: 12pm-1am. Pariser Platz 6A. S-Bahn: Unter Den fresh salads topped with spiced nuts
Linden. Tel: +49 22 489 464. Mon- and fried pita bread, hearty meat-
From the moment you walk through the tiny, unassuming doorway you are
Sun: 9am-1am. Price: €10-25 and-potato stews or freshly dressed
immediately greeted by a lavish ceramic throne. Sit at this throne and you’ll
find yourself occupying the same spot as Napoleon did when he frequented This gem could easily be shrugged baguettes, just to name a few. The
the Zur Letzten Instanz. His bust ever peering over patrons’ shoulders as they off, taken for another overpriced, desserts will also surely tantalize
squirm to find a comfortable position in a chair that could have only been posh, tourist trap. However Theodor the diner with plates such as mousse
designed to fit the Lilliputian emperor. Tucher, tucked away in the right of rose petals with chocolate
hand corner of Pariser medallions and
Immaculately fusing history and typical German cuisine, this quaint eatery
Platz under the mango salad. There is
stands as Berlin’s oldest inn serving the Eastern side of the city since 1621.
looming shadow of the even something new
The decor is simple and unpretentious, all the while keeping its untouched
Brandenburger Tor, to discover with their
charm immaculately preserved. The atmosphere is pleasant and calm, yet
offers so much more fresh selection of
reminiscent of days when the inn housed raucous booze ups.
than good, if a little unique drinks such as
The food is typical Berlin style: Pickled pigs knuckles, bloodwurst, red cabbage pricey, fare. strawberry punch and
and dumplings. But the flagship dish of the inn must certainly be their beautiful red-currant spritzer,
The dining area is
roast leg of pork. Nestled in a bed of rotweil and au jus, it is almost impossible crisp juices that come
quite large, both
to keep the meat from falling off the bone, and even harder still to ignore in a jug, rather than a
inside and outside
the beautifully crunchy and decadent crackling that guards the large bone single glass.
and it is possible to
bisecting the impossibly tender flesh. A must have for meat lovers.
choose a seat with an After a delicious
A superbly priced restaurant, the most expensive dish runs at around €16. armrest, looking out meal in this small
over the square for an café, the diner can
afternoon of drinking head upstairs to the
and people watching. literary house, a
loft with hardwood
The highlight of Theodor Tucher is
floors, walls lined with old books and
their Lunch-special trio, changing
old Victorian style furniture. This
daily to fit the mood of the chef.
upstairs haven is nearly soundproof,
The small plates range from chicken
blocking out the clamor of the other
and potatoes with mustard sauce to
diners below, leaving the guest in a
a goat risotto. Included in the special
relaxed stupor for however long they
price of €13.90, a dessert also comes
would like to visit after their meal.
at the end of the meal.
45 Mitte Mitte 46
Nightlife Nightlife
mid-evening snacks. If you want a tracks of the Hackescher Markt
low-key alfresco evening, then look S-Bahn, this dimly lit hole in the wall
no further. is a hotspot for colourful characters
that will guarantee an interesting
Bang Bang and usually entertaining night.
www.bangbang-club.de. Neue The dress code varies from drag and
Promenade 10. S-Bahn: Hackescher burlesque to teenagers sporting a
Markt. Tel: +49 3 060 405 310. Price: casual attire of shorts and T-shirts.
€5-10. The music as well is diverse with
Her fangs tore into DJs spinning 60s
the body of a raw pop hits, indie
whole pineapple, tracks, and even
the juice causing the heavy riffs of
red lipstick to drip Black Sabbath and
down her chin Rage Against the
and pool onto the Machine. The bar
stage. Dressed in unfortunately is
burlesque, she not cheap, beer
reared her head runs €3 for .33L
back and spit the and cocktails are
tropical pulp into €6-7.
Strand Bar Mitte chairs by the river and watch the
world go by, or try your hand at salsa faces of a screaming Berlin’s nightlife
www.strandbar.de. Monbijoustraße on the dance floor. crowd pumping typically begins
1-3. U-Bahn/S-Bahn: Alexanderplatz. fists of devil horns. quite late, in fact
Mon-Sun 10am-late. Be it day or night, the Strand Bar is Bleeding eardrums pressed against most clubs are not in full swing until
a delightfully relaxed environment speakers as the tongue of this rock
Strand Bar Mitte is well known for well after midnight. So if you decide
which is frequented by all ages. goddess slipped pieces of the luscious
having started the urban beach bar to show up at the Bang Bang around
Watch out for the setting sun tinting fruit between audience members’
trend, for which Berlin is now famous. 11pm, make sure that you have
the façade of the Bodemuseum drooling lips.
This unique bar sits alongside the the energy to exercise your dance
across the river; it is particularly
River Spree, overlooking Museum If you’ve been searching for an skills and head-banging fury to the
beautiful. The fairy lights, urban
Island. Connected to the theatre intense nightlife scene of live music, early hours of the morning. Visit the
beach and deck-chairs all add to
next door, it is a fantastic place to sit tight DJ mixes, and kisses for sale, website to see the event lineup and
the holiday atmosphere, while the
and enjoy a cold beer at reasonable then the hunt ends at the Bang Bang choose the night that best suits your
pizzeria by the bar makes for great
prices. Lounge in the comfy deck Club in Mitte. Under the thunderous interests.
47 Mitte Mitte 48
Prenzlauer Berg Information
Interview with Karin Nieto, those shopping ruts everyone gets beginning: outdoor summer shopping Describe your typical ‘The White
Organiser of The White into sometimes. under rows of white canopies. Plus, Market’ customer.
the name suits the philosophy of
Market. Berlin is a creative city, bustling with
the market: all products are unique
The White Market attracts people
talented designers, but shopping from all walks of life who have
TheWhiteMarket.com. and hand-made; the exact opposite
can be inconvenient and uninspiring one thing in common: an eye for
KulturBrauerei, Schönhauser Allee of what you might find in a black
sometimes. Since moving here two fashion. Tourists come in droves
36. U-Bahn: Eberswalder Platz. 12pm market.
years ago, we’ve been flying every and Berlin locals are equally excited
– 7pm. Log on to the website for season to New York How do you select the designers that by the prospect of a new shopping
the next The White or Paris to get our exhibit at The White Market, and experience to discover. You are
Market event. fashion fix. In these how many do you choose to show at located at KulturBrauerei in the
The White Market is cities, shopping any one event? popular shopping area of Prenzlauer
a new fashion event more than just a Berg. How did you decide on the area
Each designer must submit images
based in the diverse means to an end, in which The White Market is held,
of their collections, and we review
shopping area of it’s an experience. and how important do you think this
them based on the following criteria:
Prenzlauer Berg. We recognized is to the project’s success?
original design, craftsmanship, and
Locals and tourists Berlin already had
small production runs. We show Prenzlauer Berg has a very chilled
alike visit the chic, all the elements:
approximately 40 designers per out atmosphere; it’s trendy and not
outdoor market for talented designers,
market, and we make sure there is overly-touristy like other districts
a taste of original good quality
an equal number between clothing in Berlin. The neighbourhood has
Berlin craftsmanship craftsmanship,
and accessory designers. a perfect blend of a young creative
at KulturBrauerei, the city’s cultural endless sources of inspiration, etc.
set that keeps the area exciting and
hub. All we had to do was connect the What items can we find on sale at
inspiring and young families with
elements. Our concept was simple: The White Market and is there an
Having hosted only four events a more disposable income keep it
bring the best designers under one average price range?
of its kind so far, organiser Karen prosperous. The KulturBrauerei is
roof (or umbrella in our case) and
Nieto speaks to us about this unique The White Market only exhibits incredibly charming, and it’s a Berlin
present their collections in a pretty
project and the exciting prospects handmade items from independent landmark. The fact that everyone
white package – and voila, the White
for The White Market. designers with non mass-produced knows it, means we don’t have to
Market shopping experience was
collections. In order to remain give directions and the location gave
When did you first come up with born.
true to the initial concept of the the market a sense of establishment
the idea for The White Market and How did you come up with the name White Market, it is exclusively a from the get go.
what made you decide to pursue ‘The White Market’? fashion market selling clothing and
this venture? Are you a designer yourself, and if so
accessories. The price range is very
We chose the name ‘The WhiteMarket’ do you exhibit any of your items at
The idea for the White Market was broad starting at ten euros goingup
because that’s how we visualized the The White Market?
conceived in 2008, during one of to 200 euros.
Sentimental Journey
Husemannstr. 5, 10435 Berlin, Phone:
030/44328664, Email: journey@
arcor.de, Mon.-Sat. 12am-7pm, Sun.
closed, U-Bahn: Eberswalder Str.
With the funky sequined dresses
hanging outside and a stencil of Elvis
above the door, you know you are
in for a real vintage treat when you
enter Sentimental Journey. Inside,
clothing, shoes and hats from the early
20th century until the present await.
Sentimental Journeys is everything a
vintage shop should be, with crowded
racks of dresses, scary mannequin
heads with ostentatious hats, and Stiefelkombinat ranging from fetish ware to 60s go-go
even a white and black checked boots. There is also a large collection
Eberswalder Str. 21/22, Tel: 51 05 of vintage clothing, mostly from the
floor. To top it all off, in one room
12 34, Mon.-Thurs. 10am-10pm, Fri. 1960s through to the 1980s. Variety
there is a shrine to Elvis, complete
and Sat. 10am-12pm, Sun. closed. abounds, with everything from
with a piano and velvet stool, a
large cut out of The King himself, Stiefelkombinat is overwhelming to chunky knit sweaters to bathing suits
and a ceramic band arranged on top say the least. The experience begins and 80s prom dresses. Crammed up
of the piano. Many treasures await before even entering the premises, to the rafters, the shop can be a little
discovery in this store: collapsible top as its contents spill out onto the hard to take in fully and discover
hats, cocktail dresses, and even a hat street, making it hard to miss. that perfect find. But when you
featuring a knitted grand piano made Inside, shag rugs and furry stools do, it is the result of an enjoyable
by the owner herself. Although the are used in abundance, providing treasure hunt through the fashions of
prices may be on the higher end (said a suitably retro decor on which to yesteryear. Next door there is also
hat costing upwards of 100 euro), display the clothes. Shoes dominate men’s clothing and shoes, as well as
it is still worth a look if just for the the secondhand merchandise. There furniture more likely to be spotted in
feeling of nostalgia for a time when is a wide selection of both boots a 70s sci-fi flick. Prices here are not
you weren’t even around. and heels, which are all helpfully cheap, but they are justified on the
organized by size with clearly marked whole by the quality.
sections. Various choices abound,
Babel Focacceria Naturale a lunch hotspot for Prenzlauer Berg’s salad and a mount of crispy leaves,
discerning residents. peppers, tomato, cucumber and
Kastanienalle33, Kastanienalle 4, U-bahn: Eberswalder succulent chicken will arrive a short
U-bahn: Eberswalder Straße. Mon-Sun, open from 12-12. while after (perhaps a little longer
Straße noon - than you may like). If a salad is not
For a quick pit stop during shopping
midnight what you’re after, soups, bagels
ventures on Kastanienalle, this
For a kebab you won’t ciabatta-cum-pizza café is a great and ciabatta sandwiches are also
regret the morning alternative from the often meat- available for a more pocket friendly
after, Babel is the heavy Kebab and Currywurst stalls price. There are also generous happy
place to go. Serving so readily found in Berlin. With hour(s) and limitless wifi.
deliciously authentic toppings varying from spinach, ham,
meals at the wallet- tuna, mozzarella, tomato and goats W-Imbiss
friendly price of cheese, and a sizeable slice costing www.w-derimbiss.de Kastanienallee
just three Euro, this only 2€, the relaxed café is a perfect 49, M8 M1 M12, Rosenthalerplatz.4302
makes the perfect place for refuelling. What’s more, 0678 noon-midnight.
spot to stop off for the juice bar along the counter offers
a quick bite between similar variety. Freshly stocked from Best described as an Indian-Italian-
bars. Particularly the vibrant fruit and veg shop next Californian fusion restaurant,
recommended are door, prices range from a pocket- W-Imbiss lies on the stylish edge of
the chicken schwarma friendly two to four euro depending Mitte and Prenzlauer Berg. It takes
or grilled haloumi. on how much fruit you want thrown its name from the German ‘Imbiss’
Sitting on the terrace in. All in all, the perfect place to take Fellas meaning ‘fast-food’. Its logo is
outside is a good spot a pause and plan your next shopping www.fellas-berlin.de Stargarder the notorious golden arches turned
to watch the well-to- venture. Straße U-bahn: Schonhauser Allee. upside down hinting that W-Imbiss
do hipster inhabitants Tel:46796314; 10 am- 1am. is no ordinary fast food joint. Chef,
of the surrounding
Tabeyo Gordon W, dishes out everything from
area go preening and prancing about Danzinger Straße 14, U-bahn: If a big hearty salad is what you’re naan pizzas to black bean quesadillas,
their business. The restaurant itself Eberswalder Straße Tel:304 435 7402 looking for, then head to Fellas. With producing scrumptious, eccentric,
is run by a couple of genial Lebanese enough greenery to last you a week gastronomy in minutes. A tannoy
At Tabeyo, you can eat like a prince this dimly lit, wooden furnished system declares your food is ready to
guys and attracts a healthy mix of
on a pauper’s pocket. Offering restaurant-come-bar is a great be collected from the postage stamp
homesick Arabs, clued-up locals and
freshly made sushi with good quality place for private dinners or long lazy sized kitchen. Choose to take away
boozed-up bar hoppers. So revered
ingredients at the overtly generous lunches. Although fairly expensive, or eat outside among large plastic
is this place in fact that it has even
price of two euro for six rolls, it is you’re money will defiantly go a orange tables.
made local guide Tipp’s list of Top 20
easy to see why this place has become long way. Order a Sportsfreund
places to eat in Berlin.
Alkatraz East Seven Hostel on every floor, what more could “Wash your own dishes, or we’ll make
a budding traveller ask for. Not to you eat your passport!” – is the note
w w w. a l c a t r a z - b a c k p a c k e r. www.eastseven.de. Schwedter mention being surrounded by cafes, you will find in the kitchen of this
de Schonhauser Allee 133a. U2 Straße 7. U-bahn: Senefelder Platz. restaurants, nightlife and of course laidback hostel. The bright
Eberswalder Strasse Tel: +49 (0)30 Tel: 936 22 240 lots of shops. A trip to the famous
48496815 Mauer Park fleamarket on Sunday is
Dorm: 17
S 40, D 25, T 22 a must. Or relax in the cosy garden
S 37, D 50, T 51, Q 78
house/barbeque area among other
4 bedroom dorm 18
Linen: 3 guests. The friendly and welcoming
8 bedroom dorm 16 staff are always on hand 24/7 with
Towels: 1euro
tips and tricks to help you make the
Apartments (4 people) 106, (5
Visa and Mastercard accepted (small most of your time in the city. The
people) 116, (6 people) 126
fee of 1euro per 100euro to cover hostel offers a range of services
Linen: 2 Towels: free on demand costs) including: laundry service, free
lockers in rooms, free luggage
This urban, hip hostel located on Situated just north of Berlin’s
storage, free maps and free wi-fi.
the busy street of Schönhauser Allee über-hip Mitte district, this small,
The East Seven Berlin hostel fosters a
stands out from the rest. With its comfortable hostel offers travellers
relaxed atmosphere all year round.
unique exterior of graffiti, it’s hard a wide range of clean, high quality
to walk past without being intrigued affordable accommodation. With
by what lies within. You can find spacious bathrooms and hot showers Lette’m Sleep orange and blue walls of Lette’m Sleep
all kinds of travellers residing here fit in nicely with Prenzlauerberg’s
www.backpackers.de. Lettestraße
from students, backpackers, walk- vibrant scene. This relaxed hostel
7. U-bahn: Eberswalder Straße. hosts a mixture of nationalities
ins and occasionally families. The Tel: +49 (0)30 44733623 Fax: +49
small intimate courtyard is an ideal all year round; backpackers from
(0)30 44733625 Finland, a family from Spain, an
place to sit back and unwind. The
common area with TV, table football, 7 bed dorms 17€, 6 bed dorms 18€, American biker… you’ll find them
books and leaflets galore make sure 5 bed dorms 19€, 4 bed dorms 20€, here. With its no curfew policy
you will be kept busy. There is a 3 bed dorms 21€ travellers may come and go as they
lobby where computers are located please. The little common room has
Twin room: 49€ everything you could need including
with free internet access (you can
also access the internet with your Apartment: 69€/room a night for free internet, tea, coffee, and a
own notebook via wi-fi). The self- two people great DVD collection. This hostel has
service kitchen/lounge is bright and the vibe of Berlin built in. It’s down-
Linen: Included no charge to-earth, nonchalant cool.
colourful and has a relaxed vibe.
Towels: 70cent
Billy Wilders
Let’s be honest...
www.billywilders.de Potsdamer
Potsdammer Platz is expensive, Straße 2 U-Bahn: Potsdamer Platz
touristy and lacking in quality Tel: 030-26 55 48 60
when it comes to food and Much like its namesake, Billy
drink. You would be much Wilder’s offers something a little
better hopping on the U -Bahn different from its contemporaries.
and going elsewhere. If you Surrounded on all fronts by
absolutely must dine here, corporate brands and identikit bars,
listed below are a few places this bar is a pocket of character in
you could try. If they don’t an otherwise bland area. Presided
tempt you numerous generic over by a large portrait of the
restaurants and bars can be acclaimed director, responsible for
found in the Sony centre. the classic Some Like It Hot, sitting
around the curved bar drinking tall
drinks whilst admiring the sleek art
deco interior is glamorous nostalgia,
Weilands Wellfood all the more emphatic in its contrast
to the concrete jungle outside its
www.weilands-wellfood.de doors. Just a lift ride away from
Marlene-Dietrich-Platz 1 U-Bahn: the Museum of Cinema, there is no
Potsdamer Platz Tel: 30 25899717 more fitting way to reflect on the
golden age of Hollywood. They say
If feeling a bit bloated after too they don’t make like they used to;
much beer and bratwurst, head well, in this case they do. Prices are
to this wholesome self-service however indicative of the area so
buffet. Satisfying the most health best to get there during happy hour.
conscious consumers, benefit from
salads, stir-fries and whole-wheat
pasta dishes. Reasonably priced
averaging 6€ for a large salad. Be
warned that flavours may differ
from what’s advertised. Free WiFi
available.
85 Freidrichshain 86
Arts & Culture Arts & Culture
87 88
Food & Drink Food & Drink
Qrazy:Ling’s Vietnamese food is all about fresh Qrazy:Ling’s is actually connected fare. Intimidating in size and lavishly
ingredients and fragrant aromas and via an arch to art store Quality doused with tangy feta and balsamic,
www.qrazylings.com. Tram: M13 Qrazy:Ling’s food certainly embraces Lovers which explains why this the salads are perfect for lunch and
Wuhlischstrasse. Tel: +49 3 029 493 this tradition. traditional Vietnamese restaurant not to be missed in the evening is the
157. Mon-Thu 4pm-12am, Fri 4pm- has such a quirky modern feel and a filling spätzle dishes: small potato
late, Sat-Sun 1pm-late. Cost: €5 to Whether you go for the traditional
relaxed atmosphere to match. dumplings smothered with fresh herbs
€9. simple-yet-tasty noodle soup Pho
and dotted with mushrooms, carrots
or the rice noodles with deliciously Service can be slow with big groups,
The strikingly colourful graffiti façade and chicken. Vegetarian options are
marinated beef Bun Bo Hue, you will but for Ling’s utterly delectable
of Qrazy:Ling’s may not scream out also available. Whether it’s for a
be surprised at how much flavour food, it is definitely worth the wait.
authentic Vietnamese cuisine, but fueling breakfast, a quick lunch break
one mouthful can deliver. The main
on entrance you’ll find an intricate or a relaxing dinner, Cayetano offers
meals are generously portioned with
hand-made décor and an impressive it all in the way of a smiling staff,
affordable prices so you won’t go
menu of mouth-watering delights. home feeling hungry at the slightest. Cayetanom Mediterranean filling food and a soothing setting.
Restaurant If you’re in the area on Sunday,
Cayetano also offers an all-you-can-
Simon-Dach-Strasse 14. U-Bahn:
eat brunch on Sundays from 10am-
Frankurter Tor. Tel: +49 3 054 730
3pm.
042. Price: €5-10.
Settled in amongst trendy shops,
ice-cream parlors and cobblestone
pathways, Cayetano is perfectly
located for a mid-day sustenance
break. A number of outdoor tables
provide a cool, shaded atmosphere
for eating, drinking and people-
watching and the servers are
courteous and hospitable. The
portions are generous and come
with a fresh side salad as well as
soft, white bread.
The diner can choose between a
number of items, ranging from
American-style burgers, Italian
pasta dishes and typical German
89 90
Food & Drink Food & Drink
Don Sushi and Cocktail Bar a long day or alternatively the start Cafe Sibylle wait, but it does provide a great view
of a long night of exploring the city. of the expansive Karl-Marx Allee.
www.don-restaurant.de. U-Bahn: Karl Marx Strasse 72. U-Bahn: This historical street, renamed after
Frankfurter Tor or Samariterstrasse. Weberwiese or Strausberger Platz. Stalin was removed from power, was
Niederbarnimstrasse 12. Tel: +49 A handy tip: there is only one sushi Mon-Sat 9am-10pm, Sun 12pm-8pm. where East Berliners used to watch
3 021 237 935. Mon-Fri 4pm-12am, chef so it is recommended to go in Price: €0-5. the tanks roll by during the annual
Sat-Sun 5pm-12am. Price: €1-10. smaller groups to avoid a long wait, military parades.
With a unique history spanning
Situated on a busy street bursting as all orders for the same table arrive back to the Stalin-era, Cafe Sibylle, With some coffee, cake, and
with worldwide cuisines at every together. originally Milchtrinkhalle, doubles communism, this is an enjoyable way
turn, Don is the place to be for as both a cafe, and a communist to learn about an important piece of
deliciously fresh sushi and fantastic museum. German history.
cocktails.
The cafe offers an assortment of
Don Sushi offers a daily happy hour freshly baked cakes, ice-cream,
of up to 50% off selected dishes sandwiches, as well as a great
from 4pm till midnight. With maki’s selection of cocktails, and non-
starting from €1.50 to €4 per dish, alcoholic drinks. While waiting for
it’s a great way of trying the large your order, you are free to walk
range of sushi they have on offer. around, and look at their collection
of Eastern Germany-era artifacts.
You can even watch the sushi chef at
work as he makes your sushi, which Cafe Sibylle offers both indoor
adds a personal touch, and you can and outdoor seating. This unusual,
be guaranteed that the fish is fresh! half-furnished cafe does a great
Although the portions are slightly on job meshing together modern art
the small side the reduced price that with its utilitarian past. Behind
you pay means you are getting your the brightly colored statues and
money’s worth, rather than being paintings, it is still possible to see
overcharged for normal prices. the bland colourless walls from its
GDR days.
Sushi is usually associated with sake
and green tea, so it may seem odd With rhythmic jazz music in the
that Don Sushi offers a variety of background and their eclectic décor,
cocktails alongside its sushi menu. indoors is a great place to sit and
Starting from €4 per glass, they are chat, or to get some work done.
refreshing little treats at the end of Outdoor seating might require a
91 92
Nightlife Nightlife
Lebowski’s The walls are covered with effigies Cassiopeia
of actors Jeff Bridges, John Goodman
www.kneipe-lebowski.de. and Steve Buscemi, portraying their www.cassiopeia-berlin.de. Revaler
Niederbarnimstrasse 23. U-Bahn: characters in the movie and during Straße 99. S-Bahn/U-Bahn: War-
Samaritastrasse. Tel: +49 1 733 themed nights the movie is played shauer Straße. Tel: +49 304 738 594.
561 828. Mon-Sun: 6pm-late.Price: repeatedly on screens throughout the Entry: €4-8.
€2-5. bar; walk into the restrooms of this Along Friedrichshain’s infamous
An upside down bowling alley peering weird and wonderful bar and you can Simon-Dach-Straße you can find a
down on patrons as they happily sip hear The Big Lebowski through the vast array of bars but for something
away at their white Russians sets loudspeakers dubbed into German. a bit different head towards Revaler
the scene for this Friedrichshain This drinking establishment has Straße to stumble across the under-
institution. Lebowski’s, a bar certainly been built by fans of the world that is Cassiopeia.
based around the cult movie The movie for fans of the movie.
There are two club floors that host a
Big Lebowski, attracts a vast array As such, no fan should leave without wide range of musicians and djs from
of colourful characters, most of having a White Russian, The Dude’s a local standard right up to interna-
which have taken the movie’s main favourite drink. White Russians will tionally renowned acts. Open every
character, The Dude, as a style icon, run at €4.90 while draught beer runs night of the week except Mondays
donning trench coats, long hair and at under €3. you can enjoy hip-hop, funk, rock,
even longer unkempt beards.
hardcore, electro, reggae, drum n
Lebowski’s manages to avoid the bass and much more but be sure to
common corny and trite pitfalls that check on their website to find out
other themed bars tend to suffer what’s on.
from. Managing to perfectly strike a
Set in over 4,000m² of old factory
balance between paying tribute to
halls there is plenty of space to let
the cult movie while maintaining the
yourself go and soak up the unique
charm and charisma of the Berlin dive
experience that this place has to of-
bar scene, this watering hole serves
fer. Once inside the compound there
up heaps of personality. Wooden
is a great feeling of separation from
columns and secluded nooks provide
the outside world due to the high
an intimate and fun atmosphere for
factory walls and towering trees but
a relaxed drink or an absinth-soaked
you are given an enormous sense of
night of craziness.
freedom by the sheer vastness of it
all.
93 94
Nightlife Nightlife
Astro Kptn A. Müller Internationales Berliner mishmash of unique architecture,
Bierfestival novelty hats and quirky waitresses
Simon-Dach-Strasse 40. S-Bahn/U- www.kptn.de. Simon-Dach-Strasse make this event well worth a visit.
Bahn Warshauer Straße. Tel: +49 3 32. S-Bahn/U-Bahn: Warshauer www.bierfestival-berlin.de. Karl- However be aware of a change in
029 661 615. Straße. Mon-Sun from 6pm.Drinks Marx-Allee. U-Bahn: Franfurter Tor atmosphere after dark as the relaxed
€0-4. or Strausberger Platz. First weekend environment is often disrupted by
This sci-fi themed bar is always an
excellent place to start or finish There is one reason you have of August. Free admittance. those who have had one too many in
the night. It’s often guaranteed to to visit this bar – the drinks are On the first weekend of every August the sun.
attract a fairly young crowd including cheap, cheap, cheap! Although the Karl-Marx-Allee is transformed into
a number of tourists and with the mismatched decor might be as well, what has been dubbed as ‘the
intimacy of the place it’s great for it just adds to the atmosphere and longest beer garden in the world’.
meeting new people from all walks at €1.50 for half a litre of Sternburg Running from Frankfurter Tor to
of life. who’s complaining? Strausberger Platz, the Berlin ‘Beer
Hanging from the ceiling are robots It’s not just the beer either, cocktails Mile’ encapsulates over 700,000
and behind the bar is made to look like are mostly available at around €3.50 guests sampling 1800 varieties of
the control panel of a space shuttle. and they are not shy of alcohol either. beer from around the world.
Go through to the back room and Basically your first €10 will get you a The International Beer Festival is
they even have the game Asteroids long way. a vibrant blend of entertainment,
playing behind glass panels. eating, drinking and a great place
The only downside is that it can be
Aside from the space adventure the a little cramped and the outside to catch a glimpse of Berliners at
drinks are reasonably priced and seating and tables are packed away play. Attracting a mix of young, old,
the bar staff are often very friendly. at about 11.30pm. However this tourists and locals alike the crowd
There are a wide range of cocktails should not deter, if all the seats are is as diverse as the choice of beers.
which are all large and very strong - taken you can stand up and play An assortment of live music keeps
highly recommended is the caipirinha table football in the back room. the slow moving crowd entertained
for €5. as they amble through. Taster mugs,
available on entry for €3.50, are a
There is always good music playing convenient way of sampling the vast
from electro to punk to reggae and range of beer on offer.
on weekends there are live DJ sets.
Granted there is no room to dance Also be sure to stop at one of the
but foot tapping and moderate hip reasonably priced food stalls for
movements are encouraged. a beer-complimenting snack such
as currywurst or potato salad. A
95 96
Accommodation Accommodation
Eastern Comfort Hostel dorm style complete with their own Ostel - Das GDR Design metres from the Ostbahnhof station,
Boat bathrooms and portholes overlooking Hostel which is just a few stops away from
the river. There is also an option for Alexanderplatz and the rest of Mitte.
www.eastern- campers, who can set up tents on the www.ostel.eu. Wriezener Karree 5.
comfort.com. S-Bahn: Ostbahnhof. Tel: +49 3 025 * Breakfast €4.50
back of the boat. The floating lounge
Mühlen Strasse 73-77. S-Bahn/U- 768 660. * Bike rental
on the top deck is a must see.
Bahn/Tram: Warschauer Str. Tel: + * Wi-fi
* Internet available Prices:
49 3 066 763 806. Reception 8am-
* Free wi-fi Dorm room: €9
12am.
* Breakfast €4 Single room: €33
* Bedding €5/byo Double room: €54
Prices: * No curfew Feeling a bit Ostalgic and want to
1st class cabins: * Bicycle-hire re-live the days of the GDR before
€64-78 * Laundry service the wall fell? Then the Ostel Hostel
Second class: 4 bed cabin for €19
is an excellent choice.
Dorms: cost €16pp
Camping costs €12pp The hostel has embraced the idea of
Ostalgie, the feeling of nostalgia for
For those looking for a bit of
life in the former GDR, which is still
adventure on the open seas, or in
present in Berliner society today.
this case the open Spree, the Eastern
Comfort Hostelboat is ideal. Each room had been decorated to
emulate the GDR lifestyle, complete
Straddling two up-and-coming
with typical GDR household items,
neighbourhoods, Friedrichshain and
such as patterned wallpaper, mod
Kreuzberg, the boat is docked in the
lamps, and shag carpeting.
ideal location. The hostel itself has
kept its original design and offers The hostel is not the most social
first- and second-class cabins on the hostel since rooms are spread out
upper and lower decks of the ship. between a series of apartment
buildings, but each room is
First class is on the upper deck, and
immaculately clean and has its own
includes private rooms with their
bathroom and a balcony.
own bathrooms and views of the
East Side Gallery or the Spree River. The staff are very friendly and
The lower deck is for aspiring sailors helpful and always willing to answer
with a tight budget. The rooms are questions. The hostel is located a few
97 98
Kreuzberg Information
BaxPax Kreuzberg a different culture theme giving There are many communal areas
that added sense of a lively fun throughout as well as the bar and
w w w. b a x p a x - k r e u z b e r g . d e . atmosphere. There are two huge beer garden. There is a relaxing,
Skalitzer Strasse 104. U-Bahn: common areas, shared/private quiet atmosphere and yet it is
Gölitzer Bahnhof. Tel: +49 3 069 518 bathrooms and kitchen facilities close to Kreuzberg’s popular tourist
322. with a sun terrace. attractions and nightlife.
Prices: The hostel is located on the main This hostel has all the essentials
Dorm Rooms: €12. street Skalitzer Strasse, where there for students and backpackers, from
Double Room with ensuite: €25 are plenty of shops, bars, cafes and free guided city tours to the pool
If you like places with character restaurants to suit all tastes. It is table, TV/DVD and tabletop soccer.
then you’ll love this hostel. BaxPax also close to Warschauer Strasse, The location is walking distance
Kreuzberg has a sociable atmosphere Oranienburger Strasse and many to some of Berlin’s major tourist
with a bar/cafe area close to monuments such as the Jüdisches sights, such as Brandenburger Tor
reception along with lots of tourist Museum and Checkpoint Charlie. and Checkpoint Charlie, as well
information and advice including as cafes, bars, restaurants and the
· Lockers and safe available
previous guests views, suggestions local supermarket.
· Internet access
and advice on the ‘word of mouth’ · Breakfast buffet for €5.20 The friendly staff are enthusiastic
board. · Bike hire to help out with any questions or
The whole hostel is very colourful queries you have on what to do (and
and all the dorms are large, fully- not to do) in Berlin plus heaps of
furnished and are decorated with 3 Little Pigs Hostel tourist leaflets, maps, and popular
places on hand at reception.
w w w. t h r e e - l i t t l e - p i g s . d e .
bad wolf. This hostel, also made · Bed linen: €2.50 obligatory
Stresemannstrasse 66. S-Bahn:
of brick, acts as a sanctuary for · Internet access
Anhalter Bahnhof. Tel: +49 3032 662
travellers everywhere. · Kitchen
955. 24-hour reception.
The 3 Little Pigs is a characteristic · Parking
Dorms: (low/high season prices) · Bike rental, €12 per day
art deco building, built in 1910, with
8 bed: €13/15 · Breakfast, €5 all you can eat
lots of old-fashioned features set
6 bed: €14/16
Private double room: €31/32
in the heart of Kreuzberg - one of Meininger Hostel Berlin
Berlin’s most popular social districts. Hallesches Ufer
Everyone knows the story of the
The hostel is clean, bright, colourful w w w. m e i n i n g e r- h o s t e l s . c o m .
Three Little Pigs – how the brick
and tidy throughout and is in great Hallesches Ufer 30.U-Bahn:
Cosy and colourful in BaxPax Kreuzberg. house protected them from the big
condition for the age of the building.
Hallesches Tor or Möckernbrücke. separated from upstairs, which has • Breakfast Buffet €4 Located in one of the Turkish
Tel: +49 3 066 636 100. a more chilled atmosphere. Located communities in Berlin, this hostel is
on the top floor is a large breakfast Riverside Lodge in a perfect place for those wanting
Prices:
room and outside balcony terrace w w w. r i v e r s i d e - l o d g e . d e . to stay elsewhere from the city
Dorm Rooms from 14€ to 25€
area where you can see a fantastic Hobrechtstrasse 43. U-Bahn: centre and enjoy the cultural Berlin
Multi-bed room (triple,
Sönleinstrasse. Tel: +49 3 069 515 Turkish atmosphere.
twin, single) from 26€
510. · Internet €2 for the day
to 60€.
· Breakfast for € 4.00.
This newly refurbished Prices: · Complimentary tea and coffee
hostel is perfect for Dorm rooms €21. are available at all times.
students who love Double rooms €26.
to party! Meininger This little charming hostel is perfect
Hostels have two for those who want a place to chill
hostels in Berlin plus from the busy atmosphere. Travellers
more around Germany are close to the action and can get
and London. One good a good night’s sleep. The hostel,
thing about chain although small, is modern, bright and
hostels is they tend tidy with plenty of space, even with
to meet a certain the giant economy-sized lockers and
living standard and the funky canoe in the large dorm.
this particular hostel This hostel consists of one four-bed
certainly meets that. dorm, one six-bed dorm and one
The hostel has recently been view of the Kreuzberg area. double room in the hostel plus three
refurbished complete with clothes double rooms next door, which are
The hostel is close to cafes and
storage space, TV, bathroom, linen apartment style flats.
restaurants and for those on a budget
and towels. There are more than 300
€4 Pizza, located round the corner of The hostel has all the basics with a
beds and all rooms are cleaned daily.
the hostel, is highly recommended. kitchen, two bathrooms and it’s near
Female only rooms are available for
What’s more the hostel offers free to cafes, restaurants, shops and the
the same charge as a standard room.
walking tours and is close to the Sony huge Turkish market on Maybachufer
Located on the ground floor is the Centre, Deutches Technik Museum Straβe every Tuesday and Friday.
newly refurbished bar complete with and Topography of Terrors. The markets are definitely worth a
pool table, comfy couches, TV and • Laundry €5 visit and there are so many different
daily discount bar offers. Although • Luggage Storage stalls from traditional Turkish meals
downstairs is the party area it is • Internet and free WIFI and sweets to clothes and jewellery.
During the glory days of the GDR, is another worthwhile site to check
Charlottenburg was a pocket of West out in Charlottenburg. Heavily
Berlin where culture flourished. bombed during World War II, the
Surrounded by the Berlin Wall, the church was left as it was and is now
area was a protected sanctuary an antiwar memorial and a constant
with exceptional nightlife, cafés, reminder of the destruction of the
cinemas and a strong community of war. The church was constructed in
artists, actors, and writers. 1895 for Kaiser Wilhelm I, and now
tourists can visit the church and view
After the fall of the wall, these
a collection of photographs and an
creative communities moved East
explanation of the church’s history.
to blossoming Prenzlauerburg and
Mitte and as a result Charlottenburg Many museums are also located in
lost its edge. Now this area Charlottenburg, such as the Museum
maintains its former glamour with für Fotografie that chronicles the life
Kufürstendamm, locally known as and work of Berlin’s internationally
Ku’damm, the Champs-Elysées of acclaimed photographer, Helmut
the East, lined with ritzy department Newton, and the Erotik Museum,
stores and boutiques for the wealthy for those looking for something a
to splash out whilst on holiday in little different when it comes to
Berlin. Charlottenburg is ideal for museums.
those looking for a bit of quiet in the
constant hustle and bustle of a city
that never seems to sleep.
Charlottenburg’s main attraction is
Schloss Charlottenburg, a baroque
palace located 3km north of Zoo
Station. The palace was modelled
after Versailles and its former
residents include King Friedrich I,
and Friedrich the Great. Its gardens
are perfect for wandering on a sunny
day.
Kaiser - Wilhelm - Gedächtniskirche
Schöneberg is now one of the more is false. In fact, Berliners had such
gentrified areas of Berlin, but it has high regard for him after the speech
a surprisingly radical past. Around that, the day after his assassination,
Motzstraβe and Fuggerstraβe is the square outside the Rathaus was
the city’s oldest gay quarter, and renamed John F Kennedy Platz. For
Schöneberg is still home to the cafes and bars try the area around
largest gay community in Berlin. Winterfeldtplatz, where there’s also
Nollendorfplatz is the scene of a busy Saturday market.
much of the nightlife, and inside the
U-Bahn station there is a memorial
to homosexuals murdered by the
Nazi regime. Gay life and the rise of
fascism in pre-war Berlin are vividly
described in Christopher Isherwood’s
Berlin Stories, which are based on
his experiences living at Nollendorf
Straβe 17.
Other famous former residents of the
borough include David Bowie and Iggy
Pop, who rented a flat at Hauptstraβe
155 in the late seventies. Sixties
chanteuse Nico grew up here, as did
Marlene Dietrich who is now buried
in Friedhof Schöneberg III cemetery.
Fans of famous gravestones can also
visit the final resting place of the
Brothers Grimm at St. Matthäus-
Kirchhof.
The area’s best known sight is
Rathaus Schöneberg where John F
Kennedy made his famous ‘Ich bin
ein Berliner’ speech in 1963. The
well-known story that the president
actually said ‘I am a jelly doughnut’
Joseph Roth Diele Value for money is key here with Munch’s Hus Restaurant delicious meatballs. For those
average daytime meal prices starting seeking a light lunch, sandwiches
www.jrd.cumed-arts.de. Potsdamer from as low as €4. In spite of the www.munchshus.de. Bülowstraße and salads are also available.
Strasse 75. U-Bahn: Kurfursten low price, the food is delicious and 66. U-Bahn: Bülowstraße. Tel: +49
Strasse. Tel: +49 26 369 884. Mon- 30 2101 4086. Mon-Sun 10am-1am. The restaurant’s interior adds a
hearty, if not totally inspiring, and
Fri 10am-12am. Lunchtime specials Prices range from €4-€17. sophisticated touch, with large open
is perfect to be enjoyed in such a
from €3. windows, summery yellow walls and
humble establishment. As the only Norwegian restaurant in paintings by Norwegian artist Edvard
At first glance this small but The most appealing aspect of the Berlin, this place is definitely worth Munch who lived in Berlin in the
charming German restaurant along restaurant however can be found a visit if you fancy a change from 1890’s.
Potsdamer Strasse appears to almost its art-deco style. A wonderful Currywurst.
resemble a 1920’s American diner. The light atmosphere and the
Situated in the Schöneberg district, affordable yet high quality food make
However, the only
Munch’s Hus boasts a range of this restaurant a hit with everyone
similarity here lies
traditional Norwegian delicacies from businessmen to students.
in its collection of
including fresh fish dishes and
old photographs and
memorabilia that
give testament to
the establishment’s
rooted history.
Named after a
Jewish writer whose
material can be
found throughout
the dining room, it
provides a limited
but delicious
selection of meals
that vary throughout
the week. contrast of abstract furnishings
During the daytime, the menu is and old photos can be found within
limited to a daily special (one meat to suitably accompany your meal.
and one vegetarian), and in the There are a wide range of barrel and
evening there is a slightly more bottled beers on offer, in addition to
expansive range of meals on offer. a respectable selection of wines.
Jungen House Aletto Although the hostel is on the main Sunshine Hostel key if you arrive late at night.
road, Grunewald Straβe, the whole
www.aletto.de. Grunewaldstrasse w w w. sun sh in e h ouse - b e rl in . d e . The staff can also prepare breakfast
hostel is quiet – something they pride
33. U-Bahn: Eisenacher Strasse. Tel: Wexstrasse 8.U-Bahn/S-Bahn: for hungry travellers, which is lovely
themselves on. The only drawback
+49 3 021 003 680. Insbrucker Platz. Tel: +49 308 262 to eat outside in the courtyard or
is there’s no lift to this five storey
079. in the apartment if it’s cold. If you
Prices: building.
fancy eating out there are plenty
Dorm rooms: €15. · 24-Hour Reception Prices: rooms from €19.50 of cafes and restaurants as well as
Single Rooms: €35. shops round the corner from the
· All-you-can-eat breakfast This colourful hostel is a place for
Double Rooms: €39. hostel.
travellers of all ages. The hostel has
This modern style hostel at first · Linen provided a definite community feeling with · BYO towels
glance looks like a hotel with friendly English-speaking staff who
plenty of places to wind down after are very considerate to their guests · Breakfast €5 by request
sightseeing. Jungen House Aletto needs. Although the hostel is close to · Internet and WIF
has a relaxing sociable atmosphere the motorway it has a huge courtyard
where you can meet other travellers area with plenty of places to relax in
while drinking tea or coffee courtesy the sun or have a BBQ lunch.
of the hostel.
The hostel has four separate blocks
There’s a lot to do in and around with four levels. Each level is similar
this area as the hostel is a stone’s to that of an apartment building with
throw away from the U-Bahn and four bedrooms, two bathrooms and a
tram stops, which can take you to small fully-equipped kitchen.
popular streets like Goltzstraβe and
All the rooms are furnished and
Akazienstraβe and the tourist spots
there’s heaps of space for even the
such as KaDeWe, Gedächtniskirche
largest suitcases. There are keys to
and the Zoo.
each room and each floor as well as
Each room has all the essentials and the gates to the grounds so it is very
are ensuite. The rooms are compact safe.
as they’ve certainly made use of
There is also a lounge/basement area
their space but there is heaps of
with TV, foosball and comfy sofas. It’s
storage so you won’t be tripping
very light, spacious and is kept clean
over people’s luggage. All the rooms
and tidy, ready for use. Although
are modern, clean and each bed is
there’s not 24-hour reception there
provided with linen and towels.
is a code lock system to retrieve your
153 154
Contributors Credits
155 156
Credits Credits
©:
Zaineb Al Hassani Mara Pattison-Sowden
Talya Friedman Elizabeth Janowski
Natascha Vogel Lucy Bates
Ben Dillman Rebecca Dopson
Adam Willsmore Kirsten Rumbles
Sebastian Cure Helen McFadridge
Emily Vindler Piers Leonard
Pamela Mair Tom Foster
Kaye Nicolson Rosanne Visser
Daniel Smith Alison Holland
Karolin Hosenfelder Kieran Monaghan
Michael McKay Jay Patani
Sierra Bucher Alana Marmion-Warr
Sara Johnstone Katie Clark
© All Contributors 2009 Jason Chen Peter Bolton
David Vanderhoff Michael Alhadeff
This document or part thereof may Nadine Truong Dorothy Melander-Dayton
157 158