Hey, everyone! My name is Sarah El-Hefnawy, and I am a senior at the University of Pittsburgh. As a Museum Studies major focusing on Weimar art, I decided to come to Berlin to do some more research for my senior thesis. What I didn’t anticipate is how much I would fall in love with Berlin and studying abroad – even the parts I was skeptical about!
Once you live abroad, there are unexpected things you grow to love. If you told me five months ago that I would actually enjoy the one-hour commute to campus every day, I would have laughed. But now, I have extra time to reflect, perfect my fall playlist, catch up on reading, or finish homework (oops!). I find myself taking the time to observe everything, whether it’s people watching on the U-Bahn or looking at familiar sights out of the window on the S-Bahn. The campus commute was something I was originally dreading, but now it’s become a favorite part of my daily routine.
Another thing I didn’t expect to love as much as I do now is my German class. I remember asking my thesis mentor for advice on which German course I should take – the experiential class that met twice a week, or the intensive class that met four times a week. When he insisted that I take the intensive course to get a better grasp on German for my thesis, I absolutely dreaded the idea! While it’s not always easy to get up for a 9 am class, I forgot how much I loved learning languages since I haven’t taken a formal language course in a while.
On top of that, my professor makes sure our classes are never dull, and I met some of my best friends through a class that I take 12 hours a week. If you’re on the fence about which track to take – I suggest the intensive track. I know it’s more work, but you’ll be surprised at how much you’ll enjoy it and how quickly you pick up German!!
My German class and I at the Charlottenburg Christmas market
Being abroad for so long, I didn’t realize how much I would not only miss my friends back home, but the experiences that come along with the American college experience. I realized pretty early on that I would miss the entire football season at my D1 university. I was never big into sports at all, but something about missing that first homecoming game felt like I was leaving a part of home behind.
Seeing all of my friends post about their first week of classes, snapping pictures with our favorite professors, and going to all of my favorite bars and restaurants was rough. But I found my own experiences here that I can indulge in, and can’t wait to share with my friends back home. I’ve always been a vintage enthusiast – I collect records, lowball sellers on second-hand clothing apps, and have a wide variety of tchotchkes in my apartment.
While I knew Berlin had a good vintage scene, I didn’t expect it to be nearly as widespread as it is! From massive open-air flea markets in Fehrbelliner Platz and Boxhagener Platz to antique stores owned by eccentric Swedes in Neukolln, there’s a whole world out there for vintage lovers in Berlin. I’m definitely going to miss this vibrant community when I leave, but I’ll have souvenirs in the form of records, jackets, and other vintage goodies!
Another thing I appreciate about Berlin is how open-minded its inhabitants (generally) are. As an alternative queer person with a ton of tattoos and piercings, I never felt judged for my appearance. Rather, I fell in love with the open, proud LGBTQ+ and alternative communities in Berlin, and living here has made me even more confident in my identity and presentation. I even have a few tattoos to commemorate my time here – from a spur-of-the-moment flash piece from a visiting artist to a tattoo I’ve wanted for years and even a free tattoo I got at a special event in Neukolln! I never would have predicted that I would get a tattoo for free from a trendy millennial funeral company serving gin and tonics on a Saturday, but magical things happen in Berlin!
An ad for the free tattoo event I attended in Neukolln. My friends and I saw this while we were walking around, and we decided to go in and get tattoos!
Looking back at my time in Berlin, I realized just how quickly four months went by. I feel like I just got to Berlin yesterday, and as I prepare to leave, I remember how many wonderful people, experiences, and places have made my trip worthwhile. From my meditative morning commute to more exciting outings exploring Berlin’s vibrant nightlife, I am grateful for every moment I’ve had here. If you’re looking for a sign to study abroad, this is it! This is the best choice I’ve ever made in my college career, and there is so much to discover while abroad.
If you’re interested in rediscovering pieces of Berlin’s past, or if you’d like to experience the city through the pages of books—carrying a piece of Berlin with you even when you leave, to cherish whenever you find yourself missing it back home—then this article is for you.
Berlin, with its multifaceted and dynamic nature, has inspired a variety of narratives that offer readers a journey through the city’s cultural and temporal depths. Below, I’ve gathered some book recommendations about Berlin: books set in Berlin, that talk about Berlin, and that explore life in the city from various perspectives.
– The Passenger: Berlin
The Passenger: Berlin is one of the books in The Passengers series, published by Iperborea and Europa Editions, which, if you haven’t yet discovered, I strongly recommend checking out. This series is a kind of travel guide, but far from the usual guides that simply point out the best places to eat or suggest set itineraries. Instead, The Passengers guides blend investigative pieces, newspaper articles, narratives, and reflections on a wide range of topics about the places they portray.
The Berlin guide combines photography, art, and reportage that intersect within the city. As Karl Scheffler once said, “Berlin is a place doomed to always become, never be”, and this book captures that spirit. Within its pages, you’ll find pieces tracing Berlin’s history from the 1990s onward—the roots of contemporary Berlin and the foundations of what we see today in a city still in flux, a place brimming with potential.
Set around number 19 Friedrichstraße, this story brings together a diverse cast of characters: a cabaret singer, a young Jewish woman, a porn photographer, an orphan taken in by his uncle, a newly divorced woman, and a terrorist. Their intertwined relationships, encounters, and conflicts weave a portrait of a city teeming with varied stories, contrasting experiences, and shadowed depths.
Franz Biberkopf is back on the streets of Berlin, aiming for a fresh start after prison. But fate seems determined to pull him down, dragging him through a world, thugs, and outcasts. Enduring one setback after another, Franz struggles to stay on his feet until a final, devastating blow threatens to break him for good.
Berlin Alexanderplatz is a vivid portrayal of Berlin’s life and pulse, capturing its gritty streets, lively pubs, and chaotic rhythm in a mix of news reports, street slang, and Biblical references. First published in 1929, Alfred Döblin’s masterpiece immortalizes the soul of the city.
Set in Germany during the Weimar Republic, this book is partly autobiographical and examines some of the groups most vulnerable to intimidation, persecution, and violence from Adolf Hitler’s early Nazi followers, portraying their stories and struggles.
If you’re in the mood to dive into a sweeping family saga that spans nearly a century, don’t miss the story of the Effinger family. Their journey moves from Bismarck’s Germany to the Second World War, tracing the gradual unraveling of bourgeois ideals through historical events, political upheavals, love, relationships, and hardships.
On the fourth Thursday of November, people in the United States celebrate Thanksgiving – probably the biggest national holiday. As an American living abroad, you might be missing the usual holiday festivities around this time. Thankfully, there are a lot of American expats that brought the tradition to Berlin with them. Here are a few places that offer authentic American Thanksgiving food as well as tips on where to find ingredients if you want to cook for yourself!
Enjoying Thanksgiving with the help of a restaurant…
P.S. If you plan on visiting one of these restaurants during thanksgiving, make sure to make a reservation ahead of time – spots can fill up quick!
1. Café am Neuen See
If you’re willing to splurge on a Thanksgiving meal, check out Café am Neuen See. Thanksgiving dinner is available from November 21 to 3o, from 46 euros per person. It is suggested to reserve a table one week in advance.
Every year, Masha’s Bagels hosts a traditional U.S. Thanksgiving on Thursday, November 28th. They have seatings from 11.30 AM to 3.30 PM, and their feast is hosted family-style on long tables to make you feel at home. For dine-in, the three course meal costs 18€ per person, and for the Bagel takeaway, the cost is 12€ per person.
For a more affordable thanksgiving meal, check out Hard Rock Café, which serves a 2 course meal on Thursday, November 25th and Sunday, November 28th. For 29.95€ , you can get an entrée with all the thanksgiving staples (turkey, stuffing, etc) and a slice of classic pumpkin pie.
Barcomi’s are famous for their American-style cakes and pies which you can order for pick-up or delivery in their online shop. Special Thanksgiving menu items are available!
Thanksgiving – for all who prefer to cook themselves
The turkey…
Germans eat turkey for Christmas, if at all, so it’s good to organize your bird in advance. Most Fleischereien will be able to sort a bird out if you give them a week’s notice. Plan on 500 grams per person when ordering, more if you’re fond of leftovers.
… and where to get it:
Kaufland, several locations across Berlin: In this huge grocery store you can often find frozen turkeys in the meat section. Expect to pay between 8-10 Euros per kg of turkey.
Rogacki, Wilmersdorfer Str.145/46, Charlottenburg: At this traditional delicatessen in Charlottenburg, you should be able to find a turkey. Rogacki may have turkeys in stock, but it is recommended to place an order ahead. Open: Tue-Th 10am-6pm, Fr 9am-6pm, Sat 8am-2pm, Tel. 030 3438250
Kaufhauf des Westens (KaDeWe), Tauentzienstraße 21, Schöneberg: This famed department store also has a delicatessen, along with plenty of other international food options that make it the perfect place to pick up your thanksgiving essentials. Open: Wed-Sat 10am-8pm, Mon-Tue 10am-8pm, Tel. 030 21210(poultry counter)
Fleischerei Domke, Warschauer Str. 64, Friedrichshain: They say it’s best to come by in person to place an order, but Domke always has a few turkeys (presumably frozen) on hand. Open: Mon-Fr 6:30am-10pm, Sat 8am-9pm, Su 11am-9pm Tel. 030 2917635.
Make your own vegan loaf:
This hearty vegan lentil loaf is packed with healthy ingredients and holiday flavors. It’s even gluten-free too!
Since you can’t turn to admittedly-terrifying bags of stuffing mix, you’ll want a sturdy white bread that won’t fall to bits nor stay too stodgy. We suggest cubing Soluna’s La Boule or else what’s called französisches Landbrot, which is sold at many organic bakeries. Vacuum-packed chestnuts are easy to find in Berlin grocery stores and often more affordable than in the States, so they’re suited well as an addition to your stuffing.
The mashed potatoes
Look out for potatoes described as mehlig or mehligkochend (i.e. floury potatoes): they’re the best substitute for russets.
The pumpkin pie
You can find canned pumpkin at KaDeWe and Broken English. As a cheaper alternative, fresh pumpkins are available at most general supermarkets at this time of the year.
The sweet potatoes
If you want to make a sweet potato casserole, Süßkartoffel and marshmallows are sold in most grocery stores in the city.
The cranberry sauce
Cranberries can be found at most large grocery stores like Edeka and Kaufland, as well as most organic shops.
Now it’s time to rest and enjoy 10 days in Berlin with no (or very few) responsibilities. Don’t be worried about the cold weather that is coming. Berlin is a city that never sleeps, and there are always plenty of interesting things to do, even if you stay here.
In Berlin art teems in all corners, and it’s hard to be aware of all the things there are to do, and all the art performances and exhibitions you can see. Here’s a list of exhibitions I would see if I were in Berlin these days.
FOTOGAGA. Max Ernst und die Fotografie – The Museum für Fotografie. Helmut Newton Stiftung
Max Ernst, a German-American-French painter, sculptor, paintmaker, and, more broadly, a prolific artist, was the pioneer of the Dada und Surrealism in Europe. The Museum für Fotografie, Helmut Newton Stiftung, organizes this exhibition from 18th October on, which aims to discover the points of contact between Ernst´s work and photography. Many lesser-known work by Ernst will be shown, and they will be supplemented with other works from the Kunstbibliothek, the Nationalgaliere, and other collections.
Pier Paolo Pasolini. Porcili– Neuen Berliner Kunstverein
In Neuen Berliner Kunstverein opened the exhibition dedicated to Pier Paolo Pasolini, one of the most controversial and radical Italian thinker, poet, and movies director. In case you don´t know him, I would suggest to take a look at this exhibition, which reconstructs the idea of Pasolini´s corpo (body) including photographs, films, newspapers, books, film costumes. The focus of this work, and of his thinking, was the rebellion against social conventions in Italian society from the 1950s to the 1970s. Due to his dissident nature, he was costantly subjected to discriminations, and censorship.
The title of the exhibition, „Porcili“ („The Pigsties“) is homonym to one of his movies, which express the allegory of a society based on control, stereotypes, and prejudices. Indeed, for the politicians, the Catholic Church, and for the Italian bourgeoisie, Pasolini was a pig, a scandal. Whether you find yourself agreeing with Pasolini’s ideas and opinions or not, the figure of Pasolini inevitably evokes a profound inner turmoil. Exploring his life and thought is an essential journey that invites us to reflect on complex and provocative issues.
Gisèle Vienne. This Causes Consciousness to Fracture – A Puppet Play – Haus am Waldsee
Haus am Waldsee is presenting an exhibition on the artistic work of Gisèle Vienne, a French-Austrian choreographer, theater director, and artist. The main subject of her work, aimed to question our ideas of perception, are puppets, or any kind of figures, who wants to explore the concepts of sensuality, creativity, and anger as a forms of power, which can be subsersive and can create new ways to think the reality.
Fotografiska is one of my favorite art place here in Berlin, because you can always find interesting photo exhibition that speaks about counter-culture and underground movements. Currently, I would suggest you to go to this exhibition, which explores 50 years of the history of hip-hop music in a chronological order, capturing all the revolutions it has brought in music, art, fashion, and language all over the world. You can also broaden your horizon and discover something more about the history of Hip Hop in Germany, which explores and give new insights about the influence it had into the cultural and political enviornment.
It begins on Wendsnday, 16th October, and it ends on the 20th October, Punkfilmfest is the perfect alternative for this weekend if you want to combine watching movies, small shorts, and films exploring punk culture, and if you also want to hear punk bands playing live!
The Frauenwelt Festival has been organized since 2001, and is among the most interesting film festival in Europe. It focuses on the human rights condition of women all over the world through short films, documentary, movies, which explores intersectional topics concerning femininity, womanhood, and condition of women. Moreover, you can find many panels with filmmakers, and human rights activists, and discussions rounds, exhibitions, and workshops.
In case you´re missing the München Oktoberfest vibe, or you haven´t been able to head there, don´t worry! On Friday and Saturday you can head to Spandau where you can relive the excitement and atmosphere of Oktoberfest again until October 26th!
Berlin’s flea markets are world renowned, and I’m sure many of you have visited a few already, but there are always new flea market finds to be made. Personally, I will be spending my next free days scouring the flea markets for the perfect fall appropriate leather jacket. It can be hard to pick which flea market you want to visit, but I’ve written down a few that I think are worth checking out.
Regardless of wether you stay in Berlin or travel somewhere new, I know you will have an amazing week, full of new sights and experiences. Don’t forget to take sometime to relax and wind down – you deserve it!
Nowadays, the need to reduce compulsive clothing purchases from fast fashion stores is becoming more and more urgent. And let´s be honest: is it really worth it? In most cases, we end up wearing those clothes for a season – if we´re lucky, and then throwing them away. However, I truly believe that expressing the personality through style is a fun, creative way to show off who you are, to experiment with different side of yourself, and it can also be an original tool used to build self-esteem.
Whether you´re using your style to communicate who you are to the world, explore your inner self, or simply because you want to show off your vanity, it´s super important to know where to spend your money wisely. Indeed, why not find unique pieces that are both stylish and sustainable?
Thrifting in Berlin is a unique experience. The city is bursting with vintage shops, weekly markets, and street corners practically overflowing with second-hand clothes and all kind of items – often in excellent condition! You´ll discover vintage clothing that´s not only high-quality, but also unique. Whether you´re into retro, chic, or quirky, there´s something for everyone. Plus, a lot of these places are often packed with wonderful objects, jewelry, accessories, and home décor items.
Below, you´ll find a very small selection of vintage stores and markets I´ve discovered here in Berlin, that are definitely worth checking out.
HFOC – Home Full of Clothes
In the Prenzlauer Berg area, you can’t miss HFOC, a unique store with an incredible selection of bags, sunglasses, and original shoes. Moreover, they often organise events with dj sets and live music.
Bonus tip: HFOC is currently teaming up with a Laundromat at Stargarderstr. 74, where you can snag some awesome vintage Adidas pieces!
Founded in 2021, UTI EXI is a Berlin-based fashion brand that focuses on upcycling, creating one-of-a-kind fashion items by exclusively using existing materials. The name, derived from the Latin uti existentium meaning „use the existing,“ perfectly captures their philosophy of sustainability.
UTI EXI is dedicated to transforming the fashion industry by repurposing discarded textiles into fresh, modern clothing and accessories.
Usually, it takes place every two Sundays, and it´s classified as an „art and second-hand market“. Here you can find a lot of cool stuffs, like second-hand clothes – in particular, vintage Levi´s denim! -, every kind of vintage items, collectibles, arts and crafts, and everyday used goods.
In Berlin-Mitte you can find every Sunday, all year round, the historical Arkonaplatz flea market. It offers a mix of antiques, books, art, vintage, furniture.
You´ll also find many unique items from the former East Germany (DDR), making it a treasure trove for collectors.
Located not too far from Warschauer Straße station, the RAW Market is located in a underground venue, between bars and clubs.
The offer usually includes bags, clothes, jewelry, decorative objects, antiques. Moreover, it is plenty of food stands of snacks and street food from all over the world.
It is one of the most original flea market I found in Berlin. It is the place for anyone who loves high-quality antiques, and cultural treasures from every decade.
Here you´ll find rare books, artwork, antique mirrors, pocket watches, porcelain, silverware. Moreovere, there is a wide range of old postcards, stamps, coins, vinyl records, movie posters, beer steins, toys. There´s plenty of secondhand finds and retro goods from the 50s, 70s, and beyond.
Tuntenhaus is one of the oldest – and sadly, one of the last – queer and gay housing project in Berlin. While it doesn´t have a regular flea market, it often hosts pop-up vintage markets where you can find just about anything. Plus, it´s a fantastic opportunity to support an historical space that stands as a symbol of Berlin´s queer resistance.
You’ve likely noticed it yourself during these first days: Berlin is an open-air museum. Every corner of this city unearths pieces of history that define its nature, telling stories of trauma, glory, and the passing of countless people who have shaped its complex and unique past. Berlin’s culture is the result of a rich, often contrasting, blend of influences — cultures, traditions, and ideas that have lived in and continue to live in this city.
A cornerstone of Berlin’s vibrant cultural identity is its underground and club scene, which has now become the city’s signature, attracting tourists from all over the world. I bet that you too were drawn here out of curiosity about Berlin’s legendary clubbing culture, among other reasons!
Indeed, you’re right: the city’s hedonistic, intense, alternative, and disorienting atmosphere is palpable in many corners, creating a unique backdrop for those seeking to experience something different.
However, Berlin’s club culture is much more than a recent tourist attraction or an economic boon, and it can’t be reduced to stories and myths about elusive entry strategies to the city’s exclusive clubs. The roots of Berlin’s nightlife are deeply intertwined with its historical trajectory. It all began in the 1990s: the Berlin Wall had fallen, and for the first time in decades, the divided halves of the city were reunited. There was an overwhelming sense of celebration, joy, and reunification in the air, mixed with the anxiety and unease that accompanied such a radical shift. The collapse of the Wall signaled not only the end of a geographical division but also an ideological and political one. This newfound unity breathed life into creativity that had long been buried under the weight of division. For this reason, abandoned Soviet buildings were repurposed into spaces for collective expression and community, where the past could be left behind, and where openness, fluidity, and freedom were celebrated.
The birth of Berlin’s club culture emerged from this period of transformation — from trauma, pain, and a basic human need for connection. The dancefloors of these newly occupied spaces became sacred, inclusive places where everyone was welcome, no matter their background. These spaces offered something liberating: a chance to escape constant surveillance and, instead, to connect with others and with oneself. Beyond the music and nightlife, Berlin’s clubs serve as vital sanctuaries for marginalized communities, particularly Black and queer groups. They create safe spaces that challenge societal norms and conventions, providing an escape from the pressures, and social norms of the sorrounding urban spaces. These venues offer a protective bubble where respect is mutual, and everyone can shed the labels the outside world may impose.
In the years since the fall of the Wall, Berlin’s club culture has evolved into a global phenomenon. While it’s easy to be captivated by its mystique and allure, it’s essential to recognize it as a product of the city’s history — a living, breathing expression of Berlin’s resilience, inclusivity, and unyielding creative spirit.
There are countless Berlin clubs worth visiting, and it’s important to highlight that, unlike many other cities you’ve probably been to, Berlin clubs aren’t just a reflection of the city’s nightlife. These venues are also spaces where you can spend afternoons or mornings immersed in freedom, good music, conversations with friends or the people you meet there. For me personally, they’re most places where I reconnect with positive energy that nourishes my soul. Here, I’ve decided to share my very personal list of the three Berlin clubs I enjoy the most.
Warning!: These spots break away from the usual Berlin club aesthetic that’s often talked about, and surprisingly, they’re vibrant, and colorful!
Right in the middle of the busy traffic of the Wedding district, hidden among scrap metal and shabby wooden shacks that give nothing away, lies Heide. Step inside, and you’ll find a dreamy, relaxed, and happy oasis, full of smiling faces and top-notch music, mostly house. Open from Saturday afternoon through to Sunday evening, it’s the perfect weekend escape. Lineups usually drop every Wednesday on their website and Instagram, so you can plan your groove in advance!
Almost on the edge of Friedrichshain, and right across from the tram tracks and sorrounded by chimneys and industrial vibes, you’ll spot Sisyphos from a mile away – thanks to the giant gate with two ducks and the circus tent peeking out from inside. Once you’re in, it’s a whole new world. Just imagine a little village with dance floors, chill-out nooks, a sandy beach open during the summer, and a cozy bar in the winter where you can sip on a hot tea or a coffee. More than a spot for electronic, house, ambient, and techno music, Sisy is a full-on artistic playground, with circus shows and magical performances.
More than just a typical club, the Club der Visionäre is a super chill spot, perched on a platform over the river, making it the perfect hangout for summer days, late summer evenings, and even those autumn and spring afternoons. Completely open-air, it’s got a bar, multiple levels, and a steady lineup of DJ set covering all kinds of genres. It’s the kind of place where you can chill, have fun, listen to great music, and soak up the laid-back vibes of the sorroundings.
Now that you have settled in and gotten a first impression of the FU-BEST Program as well as Berlin as a city, hopefully gotten to know your class mates a bit and survived your busy first week, it is time to venture out and get to know Berlin in all of its glory and diversity.
In order for you to easily find things to do and learn about the must visits in Berlin, we have compiled a list of important and interesting places in Berlin which you can visit this weekend (or later down the line).
Now, Berlin is huge and there are thousands upon thousands of other places and events to explore. I’m sure we could fill an entire term with impressive architecture, arts, museums, etc., but since you will have to start somewhere, these are our recommendations:
The Brandenburg Gate
The Brandenburg Gate at the heart of Berlin
The epic Brandenburg Gate is the first sight people think of when hearing about Berlin. Serving as the main gate for the ‚Straße des 17. Juni‘ which is a broad avenue leading directly to the Siegessäule (The Victory Column), an important national monument celebrating the ‚Einigungskriege‘ (Unity Wars) which took place from 1864 – 1871. We recommend visiting the Victory Column as well since you can tour the inside and take a nice walk through the ‚Großer Tiergarten‘ (the big animal garden), after which you can have a nice beverage in the ‚Café am Neuen See‘.
The Brandenburg Gate itself is located right next to several embassies such as the American, English, French and not too far away – the Russian embassy. At the center of the Pariser Platz (displayed on the picture), various (political) demonstrations take place almost around the clock. My personal favorite is visiting the gate towards dusk since the composition of clouds behind the gate is different every day and looks simply incredible.
We can also highly recommend getting bikes and touring the city that way.
The Memorial to the Murdered Jews of Europe
The Memorial to the Murdered Jews in Europe
Berlin is a fun and exciting city.
But underneath that fun and diversity are various dark chapters, oppression and a genocide. It is important to be mindful – not only of the various memorials you can find all over the city, but in particular with this one.
Germans, and as a matter of fact, us as citizens of the world should never forget the atrocities that took place in Germany during the Nazi regime and as globalized citizens, we all carry the responsibility to understand that something like the Holocaust should never happen again. As you might find out in some FU-BEST courses, genocides are comparable, however, this type of industrialized eradication of human beings has never happened on the same scale and the Memorial to the Murdered Jews in Europe will give you that impression while walking through it.
The design is specifically meant to make you feel small and irrelevant. It is supposed to scare you and send shivers down your spine to bring across the emotional helplessness of the time.
I sincerely recommend both visiting the memorial and also taking a few minutes to really take in this feeling and pay respects to the victims of the Nazis‘ hatred.
Please make sure to be respectful and not climb any of the stones.
Alexanderplatz, the Fernsehturm and the World Clock
Alexanderplatz, the Fernsehturm and the World Clock
One of the signature buildings installed in formerly Soviet-occupied cities were the enormous television towers used to broadcast domestic state media. This is how the Berlin Alexanderturm came to be.
Located in the center of East Berlin on the Alexanderplatz, it has been an important monument ever since the Cold War and naturally lots of infrastructure developed around it. There are several malls, restaurants, bars and public transport as well as the ‚Rotes Rathaus‘ right around the corner.
In addition, it is always fun to visit the World Clock to find your own country or city and get a spacial and visual understanding for time. Furthermore, there are various events and flea markets every other weekend, so it is always fun to be surprised by ther buzzing city life.
Museum Island and the Berlin Dom
The Berlin Dom and Museum Island
By now, you are likely tired of hearing how broad Berlin’s cultural landscape is. Nonetheless, Museum Island around the Berlin Dom is an essential place to get an idea about how Berlin became the city it is today.
Since you all received a free pass to all state museums in Berlin, we can but recommend planning a whole day or even several days exploring these exceptional museums, the grand architecture (highly influenced by Karl Friedrich Schinkel) which has gone through several eras from epic to renaissance-type buildings and, of course, the Berlin Dom itself.
Located next to the famous ‚Lustgarden‘ (garden of lust), the Dom is the biggest evangelical church in Germany and can be toured both inside and on top of the roof. Although Berlin is by far the least religious city in Germany, it goes to show how big of an influence the German church has had.
Either way, the whole area along the Spree is simply beautiful and it is absolulety worth it planning to visit the Berlin Dom.
East Side Gallery
The East Side Gallery, also formerly known as the Berlin Wall
One of the most significant modern historical remnants of the Cold War is – without a doubt – the Berlin wall.
As you probably already know or will find out in many of our classes, West Germany was the Allies‘ „bulwark“ against the Soviet Union after World War II. No matter how you think about world politics, the wall which is now adorned with several graffitis and art works, displays the main theme of our university: freedom.
Freedom of thought, freedom of mobility and freedom of information are some of the most important values in most western constitutions and democracies and the innate desire of people was on full display when the wall came down on November 9th, 1989.
As former German President Horst Köhler said: „The wall was an edifice of fear. On November 9th, it became a place of joy“. More than 33 years later, this still holds true and as a living piece of history, the East Side Gallery serves as a reminder that walls will always create tension, hatred and limit personal freedoms.
A must visit during your term in Berlin.
The Reichstag Building
The Reichstag Building housing the German parliament
While most of you have already seen and toured the Reichstag Building, we figured it still deserves a spot on this list. Not only has this building been the focal point to many historical events (both good and bad) throughout the several regimes Berlin has been through, but you can also visit the plenary halls and even listen in on some policy-making in the process by registering for a tour here. Additionally, if your friends or family come to visit, this is an excellent place to show off the political heart of Germany and the many facets Berlin has to offer.
Checkpoint Charlie
Checkpoint Charlie, Friedrichstraße
Known as one of the most significant crossings and points of the Cold War era, Checkpoint Charlie was a crucial location. The sign, written in four languages – English, Russian, German, and French – served as a warning to those heading to the other side of the wall: „You are now leaving the American sector.“
Checkpoint Charlie was, therefore, a true border between the two very different parts of Berlin and marked the crossing point between two realities: the capitalist West and the communist East.
Today, the monument that remains consists of the signage and the American guard post, both of which have been reconstructed. The original structure can be seen at the Allierten Museum in Dahlem. There is also the Checkpoint Charlie Museum (Mauermuseum Checkpoint Charlie), which, through its exhibitions, tells the stories of the various ways East Berlin residents tried to reach freedom over the years. The museum is open daily, and ticket must be purchased online.
Berliner Dom
Berliner Dom
It is impossible to miss, towering over much of the city: the distinctive Berliner Dome. Originally, in the 15th century, it belonged to the Prussian royal family, the Hohenzollerns, and was therefore part of the castle.
Over the centuries, particularly thanks to the influence and will of Frederick William II, the Berlin Cathedral was envisioned as a church similar to St. Paul’s Cathedral in London or St. Peter’s Basilica in Rome, and as the main center of Protestant worship.
Visitors can explore various areas of this magnificent cathedral, and tickets can be purchased online.
Potsdamer Platz
Potsdamer Platz
Potsdamer Platz is a crucial site in the history of post-war Germany and the reunification of the German state. In the early 20th century, it was a key commercial hub, bustling with shops, bars, and theaters.
However, during World War II, the nearby Reich Chancellery made it a target for severe bombing, resulting in the complete destruction of most buildings. Later, the square found itself in a unique position: right on the border between the American and Soviet sectors of the city, transforming into a barren no-man’s land, eventually divided by the construction of the Berlin Wall.
A nice curiosity: after the Wall’s fall, Potsdamer Platz was entirely rebuilt, with the first major event being Roger Waters‘ concert in July 1990!!
Tiergarten and Siegessäule
Siegessäule within the Tiergarten
If you’re looking for some green spaces in Berlin, you’re spoiled for choice! Berlin is full of parks, forests, and natural spots waiting to be explored.
Right in the heart of the city lies the Tiergarten, a vast park perfect for going around, reading a book, chatting with friends, or enjoying a drink. In the center of the Tiergarten stands the Siegessäule (the Victor Columny), which dates back to 1864 and was built to honor Prussia’s victory in the war against Denmark.
Later, two more wars saw Prussia victorious: against Austria and France. These wars, later called the „wars of unification“, are commemorated in the structure of the column, which features three segments.
The statue atop the column is about 8 meters high and depicts Victory with a laurel wreath and a headdress adorned with an eagle, symbolizing Prussia.
Nice tip: if you visit Tiergarten and you enjoy walking, there’s a panoramic platform at the top of the Victory Column, accessible via a 285 step staircase, where you can enjoy a stunning view of Berlin from above!
Schloss Charlottenburg
Schloss Charlottenburg
Charlottenburg Palace is a sumptuous and beautiful residence located in the Charlottenburg district of Berlin.
Once owned by the Prussian royal family, the Hohenzollerns, it served as the summer residence for Queen Sophie Charlotte, who was reportedly a great lover of music (we can only imagine how many renowned artists graced its halls!).
The palace interior is open to visitors and is surrounded by a magnificent park perfect for taking a nice walk (keep an eye out for the charming squirrels along the way!).
Inside, the palace is divided into two sections: the Old Palace, featuring the apartments of the queen and king, and the Neuer Flügel (New wing), which includes additional living quarters and the wondeful Goldene Galerie (Golden gallery). These rooms showcase lavish tableware made of gold, porcelain, silver, and glass, as well as the royal crown jewels.
All information regarding ticket purchases and tour bookings can be found on the palace’s official website.
For more information, feel free to email us, come to the office or refer to previous Blog entries such as this.
I sincerely hope you found some interesting sights and are able to enjoy your first couple of weeks in Berlin!
And remember: no matter what you do, what counts in the end is who you did it with! So don’t be shy and ask your fellow FU-BESTers to join you on your Berlin adventures and create some unforgettable memories together!
Even true original Berliners can still discover something new in our city every day – the choice of fascinating sights, charming neighborhoods or beautiful nature is simply too great. That’s why we reached out to our colleagues and present to you – Berlin’s best kept secrets!
The Futurium lables itself the „house of futures“. Here, everything revolves around the question: How do we want to live? Visitors can discover many possible futures in the exhibition, discuss them together in the forum and try out their own ideas in the Futurium Lab – all free of charge.
The association „Berlin’s Underworlds“ explores, documents, and maintains underground facilities in Berlin. They offer various guided tours to places normally out of sight, including bunkers and metro tunnels.
Neukölln isn’t necessarily know for its well kept green spaces – but Britzer Garden doesn’t fit that image at all. This park is a true green treasure off the beaten track.
The Bergmannstraße in Kreuzberg is one of Berlin’s most beloved streets for shopping, eating, drinking, and trulyexperiencing what Berlin is all about. It’s surrounding kiez (small neighbourhood) is home to endless restaurants, locally-owned shops and picturesque corners.
The Berlin Botanical Garden and Museum is home to more than 22,000 different plant species. You can go on a trip from Alpine vegetation to the tropics – all that just a few kilometers away from our campus in Steglitz.
The Liepnitzsee, just outside of Berlin’s border in Brandenburg, prides itself on being one of the cleanest and clearest lakes in the region. Even outside of summer, this is an amazing getaway from the big city.
The Pfaueninsel „peacock island“ is located in the river Havel and is part of the UNESCO palaces and parks of Potsdam and Berlin. It’s a car free nature reserve, including many (you guessed it) trusting peacocks to feed.
Zenner offers a modern take on a classic German beer garden, all in a beautiful spot in Treptower Park. Combine having a drink outside in the sun with strolling along the river or visiting the Sovjet memorial a few minutes away.
Do you sometimes dream about what it would be like to study abroad not in Berlin but in Munich? The Café am Neuen See in the Tiergarten is probably the closest thing to an authentic Bavarian Biergarten in very much not-Bavarian Berlin (they also have really solid pizza).
As Berlin is unofficially known as Europe’s gay capital, we would like to take the opportunity and give you a little overview of Berlin’s most gay friendly districts (obviously in no way is this a complete list). The neighborhoods featured have a rich density of queer bars and clubs and convey a general feeling of inclusiveness.
S c h ö n e b e r g
When the city was divided into East and West Berlin, the Schöneberg district slowly began to develop a vibrant gay and lesbian community. As the wall came down in 1989, Schöneberg’s queer community continued to grow. Today it is known for being Berlin’s most gay-friendly district and is considered the traditional center for gay culture in Berlin. Along Fuggerstrasse, there are dozens of clubs, pubs, restaurants and all manner of other businesses catering to the queer community. A hot spot for gay culture is also Schöneberg’s Motzstraße. For a more extensive list on queer pubs and clubs in Schöneberg see a map here.
Schöneberg’s queer set up also makes it a very fitting location for Berlin’s Schwules Museum* (Gay Museum), which moved from Kreuzberg to Schöneberg’s Lützowstraße a couple of years ago. The museum presents a number of regularly changing exhibitions on everything queer. It also organizes talks, lectures and get-togethers evolving around gay culture. And! If you like to get a little bit of reading in on the topic of gay culture, their library consists of more than 20,000 volumes covering all areas of scientific inquiry from humanities, social science, sexology, fine arts and popular science. In this context it is also worth mentioning that in the last couple of years they have made a bigger effort to collect literature on female homosexuality, queer feminist theory and trans and inter experiences.
Where? Lützowstraße 73, 10785 Berlin
Opening Hours: Sun, Mon, Wed, Fri 2pm - 6 pm, Thu 2 pm - 8 pm,
Sat 2 pm - 7 pm, closed on Tuesdays
Approx. 15 minutes from the subway station Nollendorfplatz
K r e u z b e r g
The queer scene in Kreuzberg started as an alternative to the scene in Mitte. Although Kreuzberg’s queer culture has changed over the years, there are still a few staples to be found. One of them is Möbel Olfe, which is always incredibly crowded, but a real institution. It’s an old furniture store that has been remodeled into a bar with changing events and DJs. No chance for boredom.
Close to Kottbuser Tor at Mariannenstraße you find the women’s café Oya, which mostly caters to women, lesbians, trans, inter and queer individuals. This being said, all identities are welcome (except on Thursdays, which is reserved for wltiq). They offer vegan and vegetarian dishes for lunch, reasonably priced coffee for 1,80€ and drinks in the evening hours. Events at the café revolve around queer-feminist and anti-racist topics.
No chance for understatement provides Roses in Kreuzberg, where chairs and walls consist of fur fabric. The interior is a mixture of trashy and cheesy and definitely worth a visit.
At Mehringdamm you find the queer bar Rauschgold, which is also a good location for karaoke. What you’ll get at Rauschgold is a mixture of relaxing bar venue and alternative party location. Besides karaoke, they organize regular events, with a focus on drag shows (some shows are fee-based). Stay up to date with their event calendar or visit their Facebook page.
S c h w u Z and S i l v e r F u t u r e i n N e u k ö l l n
Neukölln is not necessarily known as a particularly gay district. This being said, a couple of years ago SchwuZ, one of Berlin’s favorite gay clubs, moved from its old location in Kreuzberg to its new and bigger one in Neukölln (close to the subway station Rathaus Neukölln). Besides having a bigger venue at hand, the decision to move was also a political one. The club’s move to the culturally very distinct Neukölln represents SchwuZ’s aim to combine different lifestyles and, as the owners state, „Neukölln’s exciting Kiez is an important catalyst for this.“
The bar SilverFuture located in Neukölln’s Reuterkiez could have easily been named PinkFuture, stemming from its interior. So get prepared for some serious pink and silver vibes. The cosy queer bar is fully packed at peak times and features concerts, DJ sets and vernissages.
For those of you who need a break from the (at times overwhelming) bustle of Berlin and want to reconnect with nature, be sure to visit Domäne Dahlem!
Domäne Dahlem is an organic farm in a historic country estate with a blacksmith shop and an open-air museum for agricultural and food culture. So if you’re at all interested in what organic farming in Germany looks like, this is the place to go!
Domäne Dahlem is an organic farm in a historic country estate with a blacksmith shop and an open-air museum for agricultural and food culture. So if you’re at all interested in what organic farming in Germany looks like, this is the place to go!
At their traditional potato festival, you can harvest organic potatoes from the field yourself. Both modern and historical potato varieties with different cooking properties and very different tastes and appearances are grown here. You can harvest the popular „Linda“ yourself as well as rarities, e.g. „Bamberger Hörnchen“ and „Blauer Schwede“.
Experience and discover selected stands with handicrafts and specialities, ecological delicacies with and without potatoes from their organic gastronomy, live music and lots of hands-on activities.
