INSIDER TIPS
BERLIN ON A DIME
WATERGATE
House music and techno fans – take note. Located on the River Spree with panoramic views of Berlin’s Kreuzberg neighbourhood, this club is known for its impressive light installation that runs the entire length of the top floor. Stay late (or ’til early) to see the sunrise views behind the curtains as the night winds down.
MODERNE ZEIT
This antique shop isn’t your regular antique shop filled with old, dusty stuff. A little stuck in time, this shop on Goltzstraße will make you time travel to your great-grandma’s place. You’ll find the fanciest silverware, the most extravagant jewellery and the brightest gold coins. And yes, you’re allowed to touch them. After stepping out of this time machine, grab a glass of wine or some food in one of the bars and restaurants on the same street.
CALIGARI
Mamma mia! This cosy Italian restaurant will make your heart sing. The daily changing menu composed of fresh vegetable dishes and homemade pasta is inspired by southern and northern Italian cuisine. The staff is super knowledgeable and will help you pick the best wine to go with your dish. An absolute go-to for those comfort food cravings.
PAOLO PINKEL
Three kitchens, one bar and a 100% Berlin experience in the Neukolln area. Their three separate kitchens serve Northern Chinese, Cypriot and Peruvian food, and their drinks always hit the spot. (And if you’re wondering about the name, Paolo Pinkel was the pseudonym of a famous Jewish politician who got caught up in a scandal.)
SON KITCHEN
A cute neighbourhood streetfood gem on Kantstraße, only a short walk away from the hotel. The small snack bar in the middle of Kantstraße sells a wide range of Korean cuisine to go, from Korean tacos and burgers to the traditional Bibimbab.
MAUERPARK
Every Sunday, Mauerpark hosts Berlin’s largest flea market. After your shopping spree, indulge in a refreshing drink or a delicious bite at one of the charming spots along Goltzstraße nearby. With good weather, the park transforms into a lively folk festival with open-air karaoke, street artists and musicians. Enjoy additional activities like basketball, soccer, barbecues or simply basking in the sun.
GOOD FRIENDS
On Kantstrasse 30 in Charlottenburg, you’ll find Good Friends, where you’ll discover a wide array of Chinese specialties. In this cozy restaurant you’ll find dishes featuring chicken, pork, beef, seafood, and duck – enabling you to experience the rich culinary traditions of China right here in Berlin.
VOLKSPARK FRIEDRICHSHAIN
Discover the charm of Volkspark Friedrichshain, a beloved oasis in the heart of Berlin. This historic park offers a perfect blend of tranquility and activity, with lush greenery, winding paths, and serene lakes providing a peaceful escape from the city’s hustle and bustle. Besides lush landscapes, historical monuments, and playgrounds, it also features a hill with sweeping views of the city.
REICHSTAG BUILDING DOME
Mix in a little history at the dome and roof terrace of this historic Reichstag building, which houses part of Germany’s parliament and offers great views of Berlin and its government district. Admission is totally free, but online registration is required in advance via their website.
INSIDER TIPS
ARTS & CULTURE
POTSDAMER PLATZ
Explore all Berlin has to offer, ranging from history, culture, entertainment and gastronomy to shopping at Potsdamer Platz. This vibrant hub caters to locals, tourists, and those seeking to explore Berlin’s diverse offerings. Additionally, you’ll encounter a rich array of artworks by both celebrated national and international artists, as well as emerging talents.
DEUTSCHE KINEMATHEK
Explore the history of German cinema from its beginning to the present day at the Museum for Film and TV. You can also dive into the story of the iconic actress and singer Marlene Dietrich.
GEMÄLDEGALERIE
Explore European art history at Gemäldegalerie Berlin. With masterpieces from the 13th to the 18th centuries by renowned artists like Rembrandt and Vermeer, immerse yourself in a captivating journey through painting. Whether you’re an art enthusiast or a curious visitor, Gemäldegalerie Berlin promises an enriching experience.
NEUE NATIONALGALERIE
The New National Gallery, located within the Kulturforum, is a museum primarily dedicated to early 20th-century modern art. It forms an integral part of the Berlin State Museum’s National Gallery and was created by the visionary architect Ludwig Mies van der Rohe, opening its doors in 1968.
FOTOGRAFISKA BERLIN
At the Fotografiska Museum Berlin, immerse yourself in the world of photography through captivating exhibitions showcasing both renowned photographers and emerging talents. These ever-evolving displays span diverse genres, set in immersive environments.
BERLINSCHE GALERIE
The Berlinische Galerie is one-of-a-kind: they collect, preserve, display and investigate modern and contemporary art made in Berlin. It is an interdisciplinary collection that includes painting and sculpture, prints and drawings, photography and architecture, all dating from 1870 until the present day. The Berlinische Galerie is a museum for everyone in the city, locals and visitors alike.
PERGAMONMUSEUM
This majestic archeology museum is one of the most visited in Berlin and for a good reason. This huge building houses some awe-inspiring, impressive collections. You can even sit on the stairs of an ancient Roman structure inside the museum.
CO / GALLERY
CO / Gallery is an exhibition center for photography and visual media. You will find the perfect mix of works by internationally renowned artists and emerging talent.
MARTIN GROPIUS BAU
The Gropius Bau is one of Europe’s most-important exhibition venues. With its acclaimed contemporary and archaeological exhibitions, it has consistently opened up new realms of experience and reconfirmed its international reputation. We recommend that you stay up-to-date with the changing exhibitions.
INSIDER TIPS
BERLIN’S INDULGENCES
HILDEGARD BAR
If you’re a cocktail lover, Hildegard Bar is just the right place for you. The owner, Thomas, is also known as the founder of the delicious cocktail called Watermelon Man.
KLUNKERKRANICH ROOFTOP BAR
Elevate your dining game at Klunkerkranich rooftop bar, where the views are as jaw-dropping as the drinks. Prepare to savor exquisite cocktails and Spanish-inspired bites while soaking up the relaxed rooftop ambiance.
SPREE RIVER
Treat yourself to a relaxing evening along the Spree River, where delightful cocktails complement stunning views. With a variety of bars and lunges, it’s the ultimate spot for either a fancy night out or a casual get-together with friends.
PRATER BIERGARTEN
Nestled in the vibrant Prenzlauer Berg district, Prater Biergarten is a historic beer garden exuding charm and authenticity. With its lush greenery and communal seating, Prater offers an iconic German experience. Enjoy traditional beers and food in a vibrant atmosphere – a must-visit for locals and travelers alike.
W PIZZA
By far the best Napoli style pizza in town. W Pizza is a no-nonsense pizza place, just like in Napoli. You can eat in or take your pizza to-go. Since it’s often very busy, people eat their pizza across the street.
JONES ICE CREAM
With its handmade cones and insta-worthy scoop technique, Jones ice cream tastes as it looks: delicious. Next to some straightforward flavors, be prepared to find some very intriguing options on their menu. Cucumber & tonic sorbet, anyone?
BENEDICT
Ever feel like having breakfast for dinner? Us, too. At Benedict the door is always open for breakfast. The restaurant serves pancakes, omelettes, french toast and everything else you can dream of. And even better, it’s attached to Max Brown.
LE FLO
In the middle of Prenzlauer Berg, on Husemannstraße, you’ll find Le Flo, a delightful French delicacy store. This charming shop directly imports products from France, boasting an authentic atmosphere with salami sausages hanging from the ceilings, shelves adorned with wine bottles, and an array of other French specialties.
LIQUIDROM
Imagine yourself floating peacefully in salty water with nothing on your mind except… the underwater techno-music playing. If you’re up for a sneak peek into the future of spas, this former WWII train station will take you there. Make sure to check the schedule to see which DJ is playing.
BRITZER GARDEN
A green oasis in the heart of Berlin, Britzer Garden is home to ten hectares of lakes and gardens, including the famous rose garden. Pack a picnic, take a stroll and find a peaceful spot to catch up on your current read or podcast.
INSIDER TIPS
CONSCIOUS BERLIN
MALZFABRIK
Keep an eye on the events calendar of this venue for interesting festivals and happenings. This green and vibrant place in the heart of Berlin was once Europe’s largest malt production facility and has found a new purpose since 2005, where creativity, environmental awareness and culture are its main values. The area consists of a large park with two pools, a modern office complex, several natural gardens, nine historic buildings and a beach.
BIKINI BERLIN
The world’s first concept shopping mall, giving a new dimension to our idea of the shopping centre. Here you’ll find a compilation of carefully curated boutiques, eateries and pop-ups. Besides sustainable shopping, you can enjoy the beautiful view from the rooftop terrace.
+84 VIETNAMESE VEGAN KITCHEN
This vegan restaurant took our love for Vietnamese cuisine to a new level. +84 has two locations right next to each other, and one is vegan and one is not. If you accidentally go to the non-vegan one, we won’t tell anyone.
VEG’D
At the new restaurant VEG’D in Frierichshain, you can find the tasty (and vegan) Burghain Burger as well as Asian bowls. The DJ and label founder Andre Crom decided to launch a new kitchen with a hand-picked menu. The Beyond Meat Burger is a very special one and it’s definitely worth a try.
FOLKDAYS
Folkdays is a store and online shop with fair fashion, interiors and accessories that aren’t just good for our environment but also really unique. After you find the perfect birthday present for your loved one, you’ll find somethign perfect for yourself. With their shop, the owners want to make fair fashion hip and trendy.
DALUMA
At Daluma, you’ll start your day healthier than ever before. Go for juices, salads, bowls and smoothies packed with superfoods.
Tribeca Vegan Ice Cream Bar
One of the new plant based hotspots of Berlin offers superfood-charged ice-cream, located in one of the most picturesque hoods of Berlin. How about a trip to Prenzlauer Berg for a scoop or three?
MONBIJOUPARK
A tranquil oasis in central Berlin’s Spandau suburb, spans about four hectares, right across from the Museum Island on the Spree River. It’s an ideal spot for a respite during your city exploration, with attractions like the Museum Island, the New Synagogue, and Hackesche Hofe nearby. Beyond that, it’s also a great place for picnics, sports and leisure activities.
FREA
A michelin-starred plant-based zero waste restaurant, exclusively uses selected ingredients and produces everything in-house, eliminating waste by processing food scraps in their composting machine. Additionally, FREA Bakery in Mitte offers delectable vegan- brioche, sourdough, and croissants while maintaining a zero-waste approach.
TEUFELSBERG
Get a unique, budget-friendly tour through history. This 80-meter-tall hill was made from the rubble of Berlin’s destroyed buildings during World War II. After the war, the US set up a spy-station there, and for a good reason—it has an incredible view of the city. The station has been abandoned for years, and for a small fee you can tour the creepy facilities.
INSIDER TIPS
FANCY BERLIN
CODA
For a unique end to your day, head to this spot in Neukölln for an interpreted journey through dessert dining. At Germany’s first and only dessert restaurant with two Michelin stars, choose from a 4 or 7-course menu and enjoy the drink specially paired with each course to complete the dishes’ stories.
KINK Restaurant Bar
The list of great Berlin restaurants is long, but this one’s up there. Uniting culinary and cocktail art into one cohesive experience, this high-end yet laid-back spot in the middle of Berlin also has a great patio for sitting and sipping on some supremely creative cocktails. They even host guest chefs and bartenders from time to time, making this one to book in advance.
Mine Restaurant Bar
It’s always wine o’clock at this delicious Italian spot, housed in the building previously home to Berlin’s smallest bar. Continue the history with their seriously impressive selection of natural and biodynamic wines, private label Bordeaux and Prosecco in magnum bottles from the wine cellar (also available for private dinners and chef events you’ll need to book in advance).
PARIS BAR
Step into Paris Bar and travel back in time to Paris in the 1960s. Here you’ll have a non-pretentious, classic French dining experience. Everything from the escargots to ambiance—c’est manifique!
RYOTEI 893
Hidden behind a graffitied storefront on Kanstraße, you’ll find the best Japanese food and some of the tastiest cocktails in town. The contrast between the incredible food and the graffitied windows makes dining here an unforgettable experience.
NEWTON BAR
If you feel like being part of Helmet Newton’s entourage for one night, get a drink at Newton Bar. As you can tell by the name, the bar is a homage to the famous photographer, with life-size prints of Newton’s naked models, heavy and red leather seats and an ever so impressive crowd.
TORBAR
In Berlin Mitte is your all-in-one destination for dining, drinking and partying. Enjoy classic dishes like entrecôte Café de Paris, moules frites, or truffle risotto. Vegetarian options are also available. Complete your evening with a curated wine selection or a crafted cocktail from the bar.
OSMANS TÖCHTER
This team first opened a restaurant in the north of Berlin and finally brought their tasty Israelian and Mediterrean mezze to our neighbourhood in Charlottenburg. It is a perfect place for a family-style dinner where you can taste from all your friend’s mezze. Be sure to make a reservation in advance as it’s always pretty busy.
BARRA
This vibrant eatery is nestled in the charming Schillerkiez neighbourhood of Neukölln, right on the edge of Tempelhofer Feld. At Barra, you can enjoy uncomplicated, shareable small-plate dishes crafted from premium, locally sourced ingredients. Whether you prefer to dine at the bar overlooking the open kitchen, enjoy a private table in the main dining area, or gather around the communal table, the choice is entirely yours.
TRÖDEL- UND KUNSTMARKT STRAßE DES 17. JUNI
This fleamarket is a very special one (and not that far from Max Brown Ku’damm). You can buy really unique vintage and retro crafts, art and clothes from special dealers that come from villages outside of Berlin. There you can find extravagant giveaways and presents for your friends and family.
OH, PANAMA
Treat yourself as often as you can–especially when you’re on vacation. Oh, Panama is definitely one of our favourite places to do so. Their soul-nourishing creations are meant to be shared and they always have a little surprise up their sleeve.
INSIDER TIPS
DOG-FRIENDLY
DER BLAUE FUCHS
Craving delicious comfort food with your furry bestie by your side? Der Blaue Fuchs is the place. Go for delicious Georgian cuisine and a super dog-loving atmosphere.
SCMACKOFATZ BARF MANUFAKTUR
This is your go-to when it comes to mouth-watering treats for your four-legged friend. They only serve the best and nothing else.
HAUPTSTADT HUND
Searching for bio dog food and other good stuff for your pup? Hauptstadt Hund is just the right place to find it all and more.
HUNDEAUSLAUFGEBIET GRUNEWALD
Perfect for escaping the hustle and bustle. Green wherever you look and great swimming for your dog in the little lake.
TEMPELHOFER FELD
Tempelhofer Feld is one of Berlin’s largest city center dog parks, which used to be an airport! It is divided into three fenced sections where dogs can socialize and play on the grass, but is also a great spot to relax, stroll, or picnic. The great atmosphere will keep you there until the sun sets. Truly basic at its best.
BENEDICT
Enter pancake heaven and treat yourself with the best breakfast in town. Your pup is welcome to tag along here.
DOGTAP BERLIN
Good food, good beer and an outdoor dog park. What else can you ask for? Probably nothing. At DogTap Berlin you’ll find it all.
SONNBERG.BERLIN
Nothing more fun than spoiling your little (or big) one. Sonnberg.Berlin is the place to be when it comes to all dog everything: treats, toys, and some things you might not necessarily need but definitely will want.
SHAKESPEARE AND SONS
Nestled in Friendrichshain, Shakespeare and Sons features a cafe-bookshop in bustling East Berlin. It offers a diverse collection of new and used books and offers (according to us) some of the best bagels in the city. It features comfortable seating, delicious food, captivating reads and a friendly coworking environment, making it the go-to spot for you and your furry friend.