Berlin, Germany
A city layered with history and full of contrasts—Berlin is where elegant boulevards meet brutalist memorials, and world-class art lives side by side with gritty creative energy. We visited with one main purpose: to experience the Berlin Philharmonic. Over the years, we’ve been lucky to see John Williams conduct here and hear his music performed by one of the world’s greatest orchestras. The rest of the trip was a deep dive into the city’s culture, cuisine, and complex past—all in just a few packed, unforgettable days.
Dream
The Ritz-Carlton, Berlin (Potsdamer Platz
Classy and centrally located, this refined base puts you within walking distance of key sights and close to major transportation links. A great choice for both first-time visitors and return travelers who want a polished home base with easy access to museums, shopping, and concert halls.
Dine
Breakfast at POTS: Start your day with the elegant breakfast buffet at POTS, featuring local specialties and classic favorites in a bright, refined setting.
In the evening, head to The Curtain Club, the Ritz’s moody cocktail bar, perfect for a late dinner and well-crafted nightcap in plush surroundings.
Mine: A local favorite near Ku’damm, this family-run gem offers elevated Italian cuisine with international influences. The charming terrace, curated wine list, and “Greatest Hits” shared tasting menu make it perfect for a slow dinner. Bonus: the wine cellar can be booked for private dining or chef’s table events.
Do
The Philharmonie: If you can catch a concert here, do. The acoustics are world-famous.
Checkpoint Charlie & Berlin Wall Memorials: Powerful reminders of a divided past.
Helmut Newton Foundation: A must for photography lovers, especially fashion.
Museum Island: A cultural treasure trove, home to five major museums and centuries of art and artifacts.
Neue Nationalgalerie: Recently renovated and home to masterworks by Calder, Klee, and more.
Neue Wache: A solemn memorial housing Käthe Kollwitz’s sculpture Mother with Her Dead Son.
Brandenburg Gate: One of Berlin’s most iconic landmarks, rich with historical symbolism.
The Memorial to the Murdered Jews of Europe: A stark and moving tribute, just steps from the Reichstag.
The Reichstag: Germany’s historic parliament building with a glass dome offering sweeping views of Berlin.
Fernsehturm (TV Tower): For panoramic views, take the elevator up this East Berlin icon.
Kaiser Wilhelm Memorial Church: Left in ruins post–WWII, it stands as a haunting, beautiful reminder of war’s impact.
Tiergarten: Berlin’s vast inner-city park, perfect for a midday walk or quiet moment between museums.
Bikini Berlin: Concept mall meets creative hub, perfect for a stylish break or unique souvenirs.