The city where history meets future

As one of Europe’s the youngest capitals, Berlin is the place to go if you are looking for history, culture and a great nightlife. Divided for more than 40 years by the wall, Berlin was reunited in 1989 and soon became Germany’s capital. Since the fall of the Iron Curtain, no city in Europe has seen more development and change than Berlin. As one of Europe’s biggest cities, Berlin's architecture, culture and fashion reflect the city's charismatic flair. Berlin offers one of the most varied and vibrant nightlife scenes in Europe.

Why Go?
Berlin’s both fascinating and sometimes troubled history has given it lots of interesting landmarks to visit. Berlin is also one of the Europe’s biggest and most vibrant cities, and with extensive night life, it’s surely one of the most avant-garde destinations Europe. The city is rich in both culture and excitement, but it’s still a surprisingly affordable European destination.

When to go?
The best time to visit Berlin is either late spring or early autumn.  From May to June, or from September to October are ideal times to visit Berlin, as the weather is warm and the tourist crowds are lower than in the summer season. Summer weather in Berlin is warm, and can get very hot, but winter weather is cold with frequent rain and snow. But Berlin is known for its sudden rain showers throughout the year, so bring an umbrella and appropriate wet weather clothing whenever you visit.

How to get there?
Berlin’s Tegel Airport is the main international airport, located about 8 km north of the city, and is by far the largest airport serving Berlin. This airport is scheduled to close in 2012, six months after the completion of the new Berlin Schoenefeld International Airport that is slated to handle all commercial flights to and from Berlin.

Must see
Any visitor to Berlin has to make the Berlin Wall and especially Checkpoint Charlie their top destination, the landmark that has represented past divisions and now new freedom. Also check out the Reichstag, the glass domed symbol of democratic parliamentary power, from where visitors can watch the Parliament at work. Don’t miss a visit with Knut, the famous polar bear in the Berlin Zoo, or snacking on an ever-popular ‘Currywurst’ from one of the cities many kiosks.