Ah Berlin. My favorite part of my time in Europe was finding surprisingly trendy cities all around. Amsterdam won my heart because of this and I have to say Berlin definitely was a close second.
I had never been to Germany previously so I did not know what to expect from Berlin. Turns out this city has a HUGE EDM scene which was evident when even the smallest coffee shop turned bar we went to that weekend felt like a raging night club. You really get the most of the city because you can find trendy restaurants and shops all over the city while still being able to walk into museums all over and take in a bit of the history. I am not much of a history kind of girl overall but Berlin was so intriguing to me because their major events of history took place SO recently, like 40 years, which is only double my age. Because of this I went to both the Berlin Wall Museum and the Jewish Memorial Cemetery and Museum, both of which were extremely interesting (and if I’m saying that about history, trust me). I would definitely recommend going to Berlin if you’re someone who doesn’t have a huge desire for history but wants to explore the culture, Berlin is perfect for this. I spent most of my time in Mitte but would 100% go back to explore more of the city.
I went to Berlin the first weekend of December and I highly recommend doing the same as the Christmas markets are literally nothing you will experience anywhere else. From the bands and lights hanging above to the glühwein (mulled wine), it’s nothing shy of a good time. The best part is they’re all over the city, you can be walking down the street and just walk into one!
On a more serious note, my friend and I went to Berlin exactly one week before the attacks on the Christmas market. It broke my heart and scared me terribly to know had that happened 1 week before, I could’ve been directly affected. I have nothing but sympathy for the families and for the city of Berlin after this occurrence. I am not sure how this will affect the markets for the years to come but please do not let this affect your decision to visit them and support the city because they are amazing!
Onto my one of my favorite parts of all trips… food!
I have 3 restaurants that I highlyyy recommend in Berlin. Being a vegetarian is hard in Germany but not as hard as you think and i give major props to the first on my list:
- Sauerkraut for making it so possible! I was obsessed with this restaurant in Berlin, so cute and the food was amazing. They even have vegan dishes. I recommend the Eggplant Schnitzel (always wanted to try schnitzel even though I learned it’s just German for “breaded”) and the Veggie burger (that comes with a side of sauerkraut, which was my one main goal to have while in Germany). The spätzle is a go-to here with many different options. If you’ve had your fill of German beer, their prosecco was amazing as well. We ate here twice in our trip, it was that good.
- My second and third places of choice were brunch spots. The brunch scene in Berlin is actually really up to par and breakfast was amazing. First up is: Distrikt Coffee, a cute little coffee shop with limited tables so be prepared to go super early or have a bit of a wait. The food definitely does not disappoint. The pancakes and coffee were amazing and staff was so friendly for how packed this place was.
- My final place I recommend for breakfast, lunch, or brunch is House of Small Wonder. I didn’t know this before going but they actually have a location in Brooklyn too! (Love a good feeling of home). I haven’t been to the Brooklyn location yet but it’s on my list. This place is greenhouse meets chic with a good vibe. If you’re all about ambiance this is the place to go.
I could go on for days about Berlin. We stayed at an Ibis a little bit outside of the city and on the complete opposite side from the airport. I don’t particularly recommend staying where we did but the one plus was it was right outside from the metro (tram?) that takes you into the city, it was about a 30 minute ride but so convenient. Transportation around Berlin is super convenient (once you get acquainted to reading German names).
Whatever you’re into, Berlin has it. Art, history, and food. Definitely a different side to Germany but one worth checking out.
xo.
earthsmagicalplaces says
I love Berlin! so much history to explore, great post 🙂
tangeld24 says
Thank you! 🙂