Berlin
Modern city with cosmopolitan character
Since the fall of the Berlin Wall over 30 years ago, Germany’s capital has evolved into a modern city of global character. It combines an exciting mix of historic and modern architecture with numerous landmarks, a broad cultural scene and a relaxed way of life. Add to that the famous art scene as well as a diverse nightlife, which certainly contribute to Berlin being considered one of the coolest cities in the world. A small taste of the city can already be had in three days. However, to get to know Berlin in all its facets, we recommend taking four to five days.
In memory of the dark past
Berlin is a city truly steeped in history. This includes its dark chapter; the Second World War and the Cold War that followed. In their memory, the city is marked by memorials and historical monuments, which should be mandatory for all who come to Berlin. Various historical walks in and around the city take you to significant sites that are thought-provoking. The Berlin War Museum impressively depicts what life was like during the division of the city and portrays stories of bold attempts to reunite families separated by the Wall. A visit to the East Side Gallery is also impressive: 0.8km of the Berlin Wall is now the largest open-air gallery in the world, exhibiting works by numerous international artists. Not far away, in the so-called «no man’s land » along the Wall, the famous Wall flea market flourishes today.
Sights within walking distance
Berlin also has a number of other sights to marvel at. Most of them can be easily connected on foot. For example, from the Brandenburg Gate, Berlin’s historic landmark, it is only a short walk to the Reichstag building, from the top of which you can get a magnificent overview of the city. The Berlin TV Tower also offers a breathtaking view of the city – but this is mainly for those who are free from giddiness. An absolute must is a visit to the Museum Island on the Spree, where 6,000 years of art and history are on display. The museum was named one of the five best UNESCO world museums in the world. In between the sights, the city beckons with idyllic gardens and parks, which are a hive of activity for young and old, especially in the spring months.
Showtime: performances of all kinds
Berlin shines with numerous theaters, opera houses, museums, galleries and concert halls. There is one exhibition you definitely shouldn’t miss this year: Gerhard Richter, one of the most important artists of the 20th and 21st centuries, has given 100 works from several creative phases to the National Gallery on permanent loan. From April until the end of the year, the Neue Nationalgalerie will present these works in their entirety for the first time. Another highlight follows in late summer: every year at the end of August, the classic «Fire Flowers and Classics Open-Air» takes place in the open air in the Britzer Garten, this year under the banner of «Waltz Dreams». The classic open-air event includes a colorful program with works from Strauss to Lehár, and at the end a festive fireworks display lights up the night sky with colorful fire flowers over the lake. For the night owls among them: Berlin’s nightlife has so much to offer, and the techno scene in particular is known far beyond the country’s borders. A must-see is the infamous Berghain in the former East German power plant, which hosts legendary DJs from all over the world.
International and local gourmet cuisine
From Asian specialties at the 2 Michelin star restaurant Tim Raue to Vietnamese cuisine with tasting menus of up to 40 courses at Bar Normal – Berlin also thrives on its cosmopolitan character in culinary terms. In addition to the many internationally acclaimed restaurants that are worth a visit, however, they should definitely try a few Berlin-typical delicacies: Currywurst with a «Diesel», a combination of beer and Coke, or the city-famous kebab at Tadim in the Kreuzberg Turkish Center. For the gourmets, there is of course also a gourmet version. For example, at the Michelin-starred restaurant Nobelhart & Schmutzig, which cooks exclusively with ingredients from the former GDR. All those who like to do without animal products are welcomed by the purely vegan zero waste restaurant Frea. For lunch or the small hunger in between, a visit to the famous KaDeWe department store is recommended, whose food department includes about 30 gourmet stands and an oyster bar. There they are spoiled for choice: on offer are over 34’000 different delicacies, 3’400 wines from all over the world and around 1’300 types of cheese.
Impressive overnight stays
Probably one of the most glamorous and famous addresses in Berlin is the Hotel Adlon Kempinski with an unobstructed view of the Brandenburg Gate. The legendary Kempinksi Hotel was founded in 1907 and was considered a place of political and diplomatic decisions in the pre-war period, which gave it the name «the little Switzerland in Berlin». After an almost 50-year interruption due to a devastating fire in 1945, the newly-restored hotel has since fascinated guests from near and far with a unique aura where tradition meets modernity. No less prestigious is the Hotel de Rome on Bebelplatz. Once the headquarters of the renowned Dresdner Bank, the 19th-century building today is a meeting place of tradition and stylish modernity. One of the hotel’s many highlights: the in-house spa is located in the bank’s former vault, and original details include 15-cm-thick steel doors and gold-leaf mosaics on the walls. Literature enthusiasts are best off staying at Wilde Aparthotels by Staycity. Located next to Checkpoint Charlie, one of the border crossings at the time, the Oscar Wilde-inspired property beckons with a very special interior.
Madrid
Spain’s capital
Excitement abounds in Spain’s capital, Madrid. With an exciting history and a wide range of art exhibitions, delicious food, culture and nightlife, it offers everything your heart desires. As in Spain in general, hospitality is a priority and the 3.5 million inhabitants are considered particularly warm hearted . Madrid is also a good starting point for day trips to historic cities such as Avila, Segovia and Toledo. Or how about a direct train connection to Barcelona?
Madrid’s sights – what not to miss
Madrid is teeming with majestic buildings and impressive architecture. Probably one of the most beautiful squares is the Plaza de Cibeles. In its center is the Fuente de Cibeles, the symbol of the capital. Directly behind it is the impressive Palacio de Communicados, the city’s main post office. Royal fans should not miss the Palacio Real and the Almudena Cathedral. The official residence of the Spanish royal family can be visited free of charge every Wednesday. The center of Madrid is the «Puerta del Sol». From here, six main streets lead out of Madrid and throughout Spain. In the evenings, locals and visitors alike hang out in the bars and listen to street musicians.
Tríangulo del Arte – the Golden Triangle of Art
The Golden Triangle, consisting of the three most important art museums in the city, is one of the most important museum complexes in the world. Art lovers can let off steam here. While the Prado Museum includes an extensive collection of European art from the 12th to 19th centuries, as well as numerous paintings and sculptures from Spain’s royal collection, the Reina Sofia Museum is entirely dedicated to modern art and houses classic works such as Pablo Picasso’s Guernica and more than 20 Dali paintings. The Thyssen-Bornemisza Museum, on the other hand, is home to one of the world’s most important personal art collections of over 1’000 works, ranging from the 13th to the late 20th century.
On foot, by bike, or high in the air
Although Madrid is the largest city in southern Europe, it is easy to navigate thanks to a sophisticated metro system. However, there are also numerous other means of transportation with which you can discover the city. To get a first overview, for example, a private tour in an electric tuk tuk is a good option. To see the city in all its beauty at sunset, we again recommend a cable car ride on the Teleferico. Especially around Madrid’s parks you will also find numerous bicycle rentals. The Parque Madrid Río landscape park, not far from the Royal Palace on the banks of the Manzanares, is particularly beautiful to cycle through.
From classic tapas to star cuisine and flamenco
To eat like the locals, it is best to enjoy a glass of wine and tapas in one of the city’s countless bars. Madrid also boasts 20 Michelin and 17 Michelin Bib Gourmand restaurants with a wide variety of cuisines: Local is served at Gofio or the traditional Spanish Sua, fresh seafood is available at Estimar. Those who also like to try faraway specialties in Madrid will find something very special at the Japanese Umiko. They also dine exceptionally at Mo de Moviments. In addition to great food, the focus here is on the social inclusion of their employees, as well as respect for the planet. The Torres Bermejas or the Corral de la Moreria are more festive – although the menu is great, the focus here is on the flamenco show – the most famous art in Spain.
Nights in Madrid
For an unforgettable stay in the center, we recommend the Mandarin Oriental Ritz. The Mandarin Oriental is a luxurious Belle Époque palace in the middle of the famous Golden Triangle of Art. For over 110 years, the hotel has hosted members of the royal family and some of the most distinguished guests from around the world. The beautiful in-house garden invites guests to relax, dine and drink while they make the most of Madrid’s mild climate. In addition, there are many other charming hotels in various categories, such as the Santo Mauro, the Four Seasons, the Hotel Wellington & Spa, and the URSO Hotel & Spa.
Rome
Italia’s capital
La Dolce Vita can be found in Bell’Italia’s capital this spring. Whether ancient ruins, historic squares, chic fashion or good food – the lively city has something to offer for everyone. Besides its 2.8 million inhabitants, Rome fascinates people from all corners of the world and is one of Europe’s most popular vacation destinations year after year.Ital
Journey into the past
With its 2,800 years of history, the eternal city has countless historical sites to offer. Due to their density, it is almost impossible to visit them all, but some of them should not be missed: the Colosseum, the Pantheon, St. Peter’s Basilica, Piazza del Popolo, the Baths of Caracalla, Piazza Navona, Castel Sant’Angelo, the Basilica of St. Clement, the Bocca della Verità, the Church of the Jubilee, Villa Borghese and the Trevi Fountain at the foot of the Spanish Steps. Legend has it that dropping a coin in it will bring good luck and ensure that you return to Rome.
Museums as far as the eye can see
Museums are also plentiful in Rome. Of particular note are the National Gallery of Modern and Contemporary Art, the Capitoline Museums with various collections of antiquities and art galleries, the Borghese Gallery and Museum, Raphael’s Stanzas in the Vatican Palace, and not to forget the Vatican Museums. These house the papal art collections since the 16th century, making them among the most important museums in the world. The National Museum of 21st Century Art, on the other hand, is proof that Rome is not only made up of ancient monuments. It was designed by Zaha Hadid as a multidisciplinary space dedicated to experimentation and innovation in art and architecture.
From food markets to flea markets: strolling in Rome
As is so common in Italian cities, markets are also an experience in the metropolis – and perhaps especially so here. Almost every neighborhood has its own, and it’s not uncommon for innkeepers to shop here at lunchtime for what will be served up in the restaurant around the corner that evening. In search of fresh, tasty ingredients or a small bite for in between, they find what they are looking for at the Mercato di Campagna Amiga del Circo Massimo, Rome’s largest farmers’ market, whose products all come from within a 100 km radius. Nice shoes and clothes can be found at the Testaccio market. Also worth experiencing is the flea market at Porta Portese. There is nothing that you can’t find there – rumor has it that stolen items from the week before can be bought back here at a reasonable price.
Vatican City
In the middle of Rome is the Vatican City, the smallest state in the world with an area of just 0.44km2. Since the foundation of St. Peter’s Basilica by Constantine in the 4th century, it has been considered the center of Christianity. Apart from the Pope and his entourage, only the Vatican clergy and the Swiss Guard are allowed to live here, as part of an absolute monarchy with the Pope as head of state. In addition, there are about 3’000 employees. They must be Catholic and are sworn to absolute official secrecy. Many of the previously mentioned monuments are located within the Vatican state walls. Perhaps the most important of these is Michelangelo’s The Last Judgment, a fresco that adorns the ceiling of the Sistine Chapel. Highly controversial at the time of its creation due to its nude illustrations, the painting has become iconic today.
Endless nights in Rome
Rome’s center alone offers a wide selection of hotels, from the classy Hotel de Russie of the famous Rocco Forte chain to excellent boutique hotels. Wine fans will be happy at the Hotel Ricci: the boutique hotel stocks over 1’500 wines and offers various tasting options. Hollywood feeling is provided by the Hotel Regina; Lady Gaga occupied the top floor during the filming of «House of Gucci ». It’s on the famous Via Veneto and within walking distance of the Villa Borghese gardens and Galleria, the Spanish Steps, and Via Condotti with its famous stores.
Delight of the palate
In addition to the wide range of cultural offerings, the cuisine in particular is a highlight of the eternal city. From pasta to gelato to aperitivo Italiano – here you can fill your tummy at any hour. For an authentic experience, we highly recommend visiting some of the many small family-run restaurants. For an unforgettable Italian dinner, try Ai Tre Scalini, Retrobottega or Cuoco & Camicia. Before that, the Hotel de Russie invites you to enjoy one of the many martini variations in its gorgeous garden. Right next to it is the enchanting Art Deco bar of the Hotel Locarno with its charming terrace. At a later hour, the small, fine bar Atipico behind the Roma Ostiense train station attracts fans with a fresh, innovative cocktail culture to the bar. For ice cream in between meals, locals swear by the Romana in Testaccio or the Gelateria Del Teatro.