Berlin : book your hotel

Germany’s capital city is one of the most exciting destinations in Europe, whether you’re interested in exploring history, art, or contemporary culture.

You'll likely be touching down at Berlin Brandenburg Airport if you're flying to Berlin. This is the city's primary international airport, which used to be called Berlin Schönefeld Airport. The airport is just south of central Berlin, connected by road and rail to the city. Wondering how to get to Berlin from the airport? It couldn't be simpler! Airport Express trains run regularly throughout the day and night. If you've hired a car or brought your own, pick a hotel with parking to make your time in Berlin even easier.

The history of Berlin starts in the 13 th century; since then, the city has seen many ups and downs. Reminders of the Cold War and World War II can be seen across modern-day Berlin through memorials, museums and remnants of the Berlin Wall. Exploring Berlin's significant role in European and world history is a must if it's your first time.

The Brandenburg Gate is Berlin's most famous historical landmark. Once a part of the Berlin Wall, the Gate marked the division between East and West Berlin during the Cold War. Today, it symbolises peace and unity in the city. It's also the backdrop to the German capital's annual New Year firework display! Make this your first stop when visiting Berlin. The Brandenburg Gate overlooks Pariser Platz, one of the most attractive historic squares in the city and another must-see when you're there. The towering sandstone gate is the only one of its kind left, one of the earliest and best-preserved examples of neo-classical architecture in Germany. It was built between 1788 and 1791, inspired by the entrance to the Acropolis in Athens.

The Reichstag is Berlin's historic government building. It was opened in 1894, so it's seen plenty of its nation's ups and downs. Today, it houses the Bundestag of Germany's parliament. Visiting the dome of the Reichstag Building is a must and one of the top things to do in Berlin. The glistening glass dome encases a spiral walkway for visitors to explore, with panoramic views of Berlin as the reward. The dome and uncovered rooftop terrace are open to the public year-round. Admission is free, but you'll need to register for a timed ticket in advance.

The Berlin Wall was a barbed wire and concrete barrier built to separate East and West Berlin from 1961 to 1989. It was built by the German Democratic Republic during the Cold War to stop people from moving between Soviet West Berlin and East Berlin. The wall was pulled down by celebrating Berliners in 1989 when it was announced that citizens could pass freely between its two sides. Today, you can see remnants of the wall throughout the city – a lasting symbol of the Cold War and the city's subsequent liberation.

Checkpoint Charlie, on the border of Berlin districts Friedrichstraße and Zimmerstraße, is a reminder of the city's separation during the Cold War. The checkpoint booth became the most famous crossing between East and West Berlin after an American and Soviet tank confrontation in October 1961. In more recent years, it's also been a setting for many thrillers and spy stories in novels and on the big screen, including James Bond Octopussy and The Spy Who Came In From The Cold.

Berlin's Holocaust Memorial is one of the most iconic globally, a vast, immersive sculpture designed by American architect Peter Eisenman. The 19,000-square-metre installation is centrally located, close to the Reichstag building and the Brandenburg Gate. It comprises 2,711 concrete slabs of varying heights set on uneven ground. Visitors can wander among the slabs, one minute surrounded by tourists and Berliners, before being alone in shaded seclusion the next. The abstract nature of the memorial lets visitors confront the genocide in their own way.

Want to explore Berlin's history but prefer a break from the remnants of war? The city's beautiful cathedral is an ideal place to start. The towering dome of Berlin's Cathedral Church is one of the most iconic parts of its skyline. Up close, notice the dome's elaborate ornamental design and the breathtaking facade of the building. The Berlin Cathedral dates back to the 15 th century. However, today's building has been improved and extended over the years. Architect Julius Carl Raschdorff was inspired by the Italian High Renaissance and Baroque styles. Inside, the many intricate mosaics, gold details and statues add to the cathedral's impact. Finish your visit by climbing the 270 steps to the dome's rooftop walkway – one of the best ways to enjoy views of Berlin.

If you love beautiful architecture, history and gardens, Charlottenburg Palace might be your favourite stop in Berlin! One of the city's best-loved sights, the once Royal residence is called Charlottenburg after Sophie Charlotte of Hanover, the first Queen consort in Prussia and the wife of King Frederick I. When visiting the most magnificent palace in Berlin, you can explore the staterooms, the Golden Gallery, the Silver Vault and the Porcelain Cabinet. Afterwards, head outside to stroll around Charlottenburg Palace Park, designed by French landscape architect Siméon Godeau – a day to remember from start to finish!