Visit: The Reichstag Dome
A trip to Berlin would not be complete without a visit to the striking Reichstag building. One of the city’s most historical buildings has bared witness to the turbulent history of Berlin’s past. After the war, Norman Foster was appointed to re-store and re-design the building. It was completed in 1999, the same year that the German government reinstated it as their formal home. To visit costs nothing but you must book in advance to secure a time to ascend to the dome. There is of course rigorous security as you’re entering the current home of German parliament, so bare in mind when making your designated booking slot and don’t forget to take your formal identification. Opening times are from 8am until midnight, and last admissions are at 10pm.
bundestag.de
Platz der Republik 1, 11011 Berlin, Germany
Eat: Spindler
The perfect breakfast spot. If the weather is fine, definitely opt for a seat outside as this brasserie is right next to the river where the willow trees sway gently in the breeze, making it an ideal place to watch the world go by. The atmosphere here is very relaxed but with tasteful décor both in and outside. We went for the eggs Roseline, which is like a Florentine but with avocado, sunflower seeds and a side of treble potatoes. If you have a day of exploring the city planned, this is the best way to set-up for the day ahead.
spindler-berlin.de
Paul-Lincke-Ufer 42/43, 10999 Berlin, Germany
Shop: Parkhaus
Nestled in the central district of Mitte lies Parkhaus, a concept store with a beautifully curated range of interiors, food, gifting and childrenswear. The range is continuously changing and developing to create a fresh offering that keeps up with seasonal trends and delves into each and every culture. Even if you don’t intend on buying anything at all, it’s worth a visit just to take a look at the stylish interior.
parkhausberlin.de
Schröderstraße 13, 10115 Berlin, Germany
Eat & Shop: Hallesches Haus
Part café, part shop, part event space, Hallesches Haus makes for a great city pit stop at any time of day. The shop is beautifully curated with items ranging from books, bags and kitchen utensils to furniture, accessories and beauty products. Sit outside in their courtyard on a sunny day and order yourself a coffee and a pastry or if the weather isn’t quite what you’d like it to be, opt for a table inside and admire their impressive plant collection and beautifully simple interiors.
hallescheshaus.com
Tempelhofer Ufer 1, 10961 Berlin, Germany
Eat: Café V
For the very best vegetarian comfort food (at reasonable prices), head to Café V in Kreuzberg. We shared the cannelloni and the stuffed aubergine, as well as polishing off the tomato bread that came as standard. Be warned that this place is very carb heavy unless you decide to not eat the complimentary bread (this may be difficult). The wine here is also particularly good and can be ordered as a carafe if you don’t fancy the whole bottle.
cafev.net
Lausitzer Pl. 12, 10997 Berlin, Germany
Visit: Berlinische Galerie
In a former warehouse lies the Berlinische Galerie. They collect visual art created only in Berlin from 1870 to the present day including painting, sculpture, graphic art, architecture and photography. The art is interactive, modern and barrier-free, telling the story of Berlin’s art history through different design medias. The architecture of the building is almost as impressive as the art inside its walls, with a striking double staircase taking centre stage. Opening times are Wednesday to Monday 10am – 6pm.
berlinischegalerie.de
Alte Jakobstraße 124-128, 10969 Berlin, Germany