It doesn't have icons like the Eiffel Tower in Paris, Big Ben in London or the Statue of Liberty in New York – but Berlin is one of the most special cities in Europe.
This is one of the most sought-after tourist destinations in Europe, and not only among Israelis: six airlines operate direct flights from Israel to the German capital, almost all of them daily, the planes are mostly full - and for good reason: you won't see the magic of Berlin anywhere.
Berlin Tegel Airport, photo: Reuters
Those arriving in Berlin for the first time may feel a little lost. Nonetheless, it is the largest city in the European Union, with almost 4 million inhabitants, so proper planning of the visit will greatly help in getting around it and enjoying its abundance of sites.
Must-visit sites
Some of Berlin's must-see sites are deeply connected to the Jewish people. One of the most chilling is the enormous monument to the murdered Jews of Europe in the Holocaust – 2,711 tombstone-like concrete structures, spread over some 19,<> square meters, the number of tombstones equal to the number of pages of the Babylonian Talmud – a symbol of the eternity of the Jewish people.
A very short distance away stands one of the symbols of the city: the Brandenburg Gate, one of the places where Berlin was divided between East and West. At its top - the statue of the goddess of victory Victoria drawn by a four-horse chariot; And in the plaza adjacent to it - a marked path of the route of the Berlin Wall. It may have fallen in 1989, but a remnant of it, just over a kilometer long, makes it possible to see what was then considered a symbol of the Cold War.
A must see site. The Holocaust Memorial, Photo: Lilach Avgi
A crowded area during the daytime is Alexanderplatz, Alexander Square, where tourists from all over the world, including masses of Israelis, come to enjoy shopping for world brands at reasonable prices. Also on the square is the 368-metre-high TV tower with a restaurant and café overlooking the city from over 200m. A short distance away is Hackescher Markt, a charming complex of street art, fascinating history, dessert shops and specialty cafes.
Other sites: the historic Reichstag building, from whose roof there is a spectacular view of Berlin (it is recommended to book tickets in advance). Museum lovers should visit Museum Island, the New National Gallery and Futurium, the Museum of the Future.
Alexanderplatz shopping area, photo: Shimon Yaish
Berlin should not miss Kudam, a very popular street for shopping tourists, and the Potsdamer Platz area, full of shops, cafés and good restaurants. Markthalle Neun is one of the best food markets in Berlin, and perhaps all of Europe. Last but not least: the famous Kreuzberg neighborhood, which in recent years has been in great demand for its unique architecture and atmosphere.
It is important to remember: most attractions, shops and malls are closed on Sundays in Berlin, so you should plan your shopping accordingly.
Cherry blossoms: not only in Japan
In Berlin, we witnessed the lovely cherry blossoms, known mainly in Japan, and discovered that thousands of trees had been planted throughout the city, a gift from the Japanese government. It is estimated that more than 10,000 cherry trees paint some areas of Berlin pink and white during the flowering period. This occurs in the spring every year, and for a very short time - only about two weeks.
From the symbols of the city. Brandenburg Gate, photo: Shimon Yaish
Nightlife Until Dawn
At night, Berlin becomes one of the liveliest cities in Europe. Its clubs, bars and pubs wake up just before midnight and continue to party until the morning hours, especially on weekends.
Important: Many clubs and bars require you to purchase tickets in advance and dress according to the dress code. Berlin's nightlife is very varied, but there is no room for spontaneity: you should not wait until the last minute, and it is better to plan your evening entertainment in advance.
Berlin at night. One of the most vibrant in Europe,
Green in the eyes: lounging in the sun
Berlin is full of green spaces and large parks, and on sunny and beautiful days it is recommended to visit at least one of its prestigious parks, lay out a mat with wine and delicious dishes and lounge alongside the locals. The largest and most well-known parks are the enormous Tiergarten, Mauerpark (especially on Sundays, when there is a colorful flea market) and Victoria Park.
Culinary and the City
Berlin is also one of the most delicious cities in Europe, where you can find bakeries, kosher restaurants and great street food, along with upscale restaurants, many of which have Michelin stars. Many places are full on requested days, especially weekends, and reservations are recommended.
Diners in Berlin (archive), photo: AP
Public transport in Berlin is very convenient, but the size of the city requires you to choose your accommodation carefully. Choose a hotel relatively close to train and bus stations, this will make it easier for you to explore the city. By this time, towards spring, Berlin is less cold and in summer the weather is comfortable, with very few rainy days.
Prices in Berlin are slightly lower than they were before the coronavirus period, due to the strengthening of the euro against the shekel and the increase in prices in Germany, but it is important to remember that Israelis deserve to receive tax refunds for shopping in the city.
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