This page serves as your guide to Berlin, a city that is always reinventing itself. I have explored its intriguing history and vibrant neighborhoods and discovered some hidden gems that you won’t find in a typical guidebook.
We’ll explore beyond the iconic Brandenburg Gate and Reichstag Building to discover quirky museums, street art, and remnants of the Berlin Wall. Have you ever heard of the Stasi Museum? It’s a chilling reminder of Berlin’s divided past. We’ll also explore the Museum in der Kulturbrauerei, where you can learn about the surprisingly vibrant heavy metal scene in East Germany.
Of course, every trip to Berlin is complete with indulging in delicious food. I’ll share my favorite spots to find the biggest schnitzel in the city and, maybe, the best burgers Berlin has to offer.
So, come along with me and experience the unique energy of Berlin. Whether you’re a history buff, an art enthusiast, or just looking for an adventure, this page will inspire you to explore this captivating city.
The End of an Era: Why the Beloved Berlin Buchstabenmuseum Had to Close
Discover the untold story behind the closure of the unique Berlin Buchstabenmuseum. Explore its iconic collection of neon signs and historic typography, and understand why this beloved, volunteer-run institution, a true piece of Berlin's identity, had to close its doors after 20 years.
Grenzturm Niederneuendorf: Step Inside One of the Last GDR Command Posts Near Berlin
Located just outside the modern city limits, on the banks of the Havel River, stands a uniquely preserved piece of this history: the Grenzturm Niederneuendorf. This former command post, once the nerve center for a critical stretch of the border, offers a rare and deeply personal look at the reality of life under survei…
Uncovering the Secrets of Berlin’s Hidden Backyards: Your Guide to Spandauer Vorstadt
Berlin holds a unique title: the city with the largest number of backyards in all of Germany. They call these backyards Hinterhöfe in German. For many visitors, these historic pockets of urban life remain undiscovered, tucked away behind grand facades and vibrant streets. To truly understand the capital’s soul, you mus…
From Secret Fortresses to Urban Spaces: The Fascinating History of Bunkers in Berlin
Berlin is a city with a rich and complex history, much of which is hidden beneath its modern streets. While many monuments commemorate key historical events, a more somber and fascinating layer of the past lies in its network of underground bunkers. The structures, which were originally constructed to withstand the des…
Unexpected Recognition: My Photography Journey in Neukölln
Early in 2025, a call for submissions caught my eye in the Bürgerstiftung Neukölln newsletter. As a local community organization, they were seeking photographs that captured the past, present, and future of Neukölln.
Berlin’s Bright Idea: Discover the “Nightcaps” of Brunnenviertel
On the border of Mitte and Wedding lies Brunnenviertel, a neighborhood renowned for its inviting green spaces and tranquil, pedestrian-friendly courtyards. As dusk settles, a soft, romantic glow emanates from the area's distinctive spherical streetlamps. But there's a clever twist to that. Look closely, and you'll disc…
Berlin History: 10 Essential Sites That Tell Unforgettable Stories
These ten sites provide crucial insights into the powerful and enduring narratives that shape Berlin's history. Exploring these locations will enhance your understanding of the city's rich heritage. Please take a look at the map below to locate and visit each of these significant sites.
Sternfahrt Berlin 2025: Pedal Power Takes Over Germany’s Capital
What makes the Sternfahrt Berlin truly unique is the rare opportunity to cycle on roads normally reserved exclusively for cars. For one incredible day, major arterial roads, as well as sections of the A100 city motorway and the A115, are closed to motorized traffic. This allows cyclists to experience Berlin from an ent…