|  The capital city of Germany, Berlin is an innovative and diverse city with a reputation for open-mindedness and creativity. Berlin, located in northeastern Germany, is also the largest city in the country, with a population of approximately 3.4 million people.
Cinemas, clubs, cultural centers, theaters, live music, and museums abound in this multifaceted city, not to mention wide variety of historical landmarks. Stunning cityscapes contrast with the beautiful rivers, lakes, forests, gardens, and parks that cover about a third of Berlin. Runners and bikers will enjoy the extensive trails that wind through Berlin’s many parks as well as the availability of bike rentals and bike trail maps carefully prepared by the German Bicycle Club.
With an energetic nightlife that is renowned throughout Europe, Berlin is teeming with youthful vitality and endless entertainment opportunities. Dive in to Germany’s fascinating and turbulent past with a visit to the Mitte district, home of the Holocaust Memorial and Hitler’s Bunker, or take in its modern trendy present with a day of shopping and entertainment at Potsdamer Platz, Berlin’s booming commercial center. On the cutting edge of art and culture, this thriving city also boasts several famous festivals throughout the year including the Internationale Filmfestspiele (International Film Festival), Festtage in der Staatsoper (10 days of concerts and operas held in April), Theatertreffen Berlin (three weeks of new productions held in May), Love Parade (a techno event held in July), JazzFest Berlin in November, and many more.
As a one-of-a-kind hotspot of creativity, diversity, and tolerance, Berlin is a focal point for youth from all over the world. A major continental transportation hub, it is also the perfect starting point for travel all over Germany and throughout the rest of Europe. With such a wide variety of things to do and places to see it’s impossible not to find something to love about Berlin.
Check out fun quizzes, cultural tips, and must-dos for Berlin in National Geographic's Ultimate City Guide.
|