For 18 years Berlin was defined by the wall that separated West Berlin from the German Democratic Republic (GDR) of East Germany. Since the Berlin Wall fell in November 1989, Berlin has once again merged into a thriving cosmopolitan city with outstanding diversity and world-renowned attractions.
Berlin is over nine times larger than Paris, with more brides than Venice. Though it houses ample historic and cultural sites as well as shopping, dining, and entertainment, these attractions cover just 66 percent of the city. The remaining 44 percent of Berlin is home to 2,500 public parks, gardens, woods, and rivers, offering a refreshing green retreat amid the urban highlights.
Charlottenburg is the largest Hohenzollern palace surviving today, and it offers a resplendent look into Berlin's more glamorous history. Originally constructed as a summer home for Queen Sophie Charlotte of Prussia, the oldest parts of the palace date back to 1695. You can tour the baroque gardens outside as well as many interior parts of the Schloss Charlottenburg.
For a delightfully cultural agenda, head to Museum Island, where you can take in stunning art, architecture, and antiquities. You can also treat your ears to one of the best orchestras in the world in this city, the Berliner Philharmoniker.
The Berlin Zoo offers a softer side of Berlin, with residents that include hippos, gorillas, king penguins, pelicans, brown bears, and more. When you're ready for some fresh air, visit the Grunewald forest or sprawling Tiergarten. Take a soaring look at all of Berlin at least once before your departure with a trip to the TV Tower. Viewing points over 660 feet in the air offer a 360-degree view of the city.