If there’s one city in Europe that knows how to carry the weight of its past while racing into the future, it’s Berlin. I spent a few unforgettable days in this city that cracked me open, emotionally, mentally, and even spiritually.
As someone who deeply loves history, Berlin was a personal pilgrimage. From the remnants of the Berlin Wall to the stories whispered through the stones of old buildings, every corner feels like it holds a memory.
I cried (yes, actually cried) while standing at the Memorial to the Murdered Jews of Europe, surrounded by stark concrete blocks that seem to press down with invisible sorrow. But nothing prepared me for the Holocaust Museum. Seeing thousands of worn, real shoes from victims shook me. They weren’t artifacts. They were voices. Silent, heavy, undeniable.
Berlin is full of different ethnicities, flavors, languages, and energies. You’ll hear Turkish, Arabic, Spanish, English, and of course German. It should feel like one big multicultural celebration, but I’d be lying if I said that was always the case.
"Too dark for white people and not dark enough for dark-skinned people."
I was stunned. With so many cultures woven into the city, how could people still think this way? It hurt, not just for me, but for Berlin itself. A place that should know better.
But here’s the thing: I didn’t let it stop me. I kept walking, eating, exploring, learning. Because Berlin’s truth isn’t simple and that’s why it’s worth visiting.
Top 3 Restaurants You Shouldn’t Miss
Mustafa’s Gemüse Kebap (Kreuzberg) – Not fancy, but legendary. Their kebab? Life-changing. Go early to avoid the line.
Zur letzten Instanz – The oldest restaurant in Berlin (est. 1621). Cozy, traditional, and a true taste of German classics.
Neni Berlin – A rooftop gem with views over the zoo and a menu inspired by Mediterranean, Middle Eastern, and German flavors. Order the sweet potato fries, you’ll thank me later.
4 Places You Must Visit
- The Berlin Wall Memorial & East Side Gallery – Not just graffiti, but a canvas of hope and pain.
Holocaust Memorial + Museum – Powerful, heartbreaking, essential.
Reichstag Dome – Book in advance for a sunset view over Berlin and a free lesson in architecture and politics.
4. Tempelhofer Feld – A former airport turned into a massive public park where people picnic, skate, and fly kites on old runways. It’s surreal and beautiful.
3 Bars That Stole My Nights
Monkey Bar – Rooftop views, classy cocktails, and just the right amount of Berlin cool.
Berghain (if you can get in) – The world’s most famous club, with legendary music and strict door policy.
Prater Garten – The oldest beer garden in Berlin, serving great brews under chestnut trees since 1837. Chill vibes and local feel.
2 Places That Weren’t Worth It (In My Opinion)
Checkpoint Charlie – It felt staged, touristy, and overpriced. Skip the photo and go to the Wall Memorial instead.
2. Berlin TV Tower (Fernsehturm) – The view is nice, but the cost and long lines aren’t worth it when there are better, cheaper rooftops around.
A Few Things to Be Careful About
Racism and microaggressions: As I mentioned, Berlin is diverse, but not always welcoming. Be mentally prepared.
Cash is king: Many places still don’t accept cards. Always carry euros.
3. Public transport checks: Berlin runs on the honor system, but surprise inspections happen often. Buy your ticket, don’t risk the €60 fine.
Berlin didn’t just give me beautiful memories. It gave me questions, discomfort, awe, and reflection. It’s not the kind of city that hugs you but it will mark you.
And while I left Berlin with my heart a bit bruised and my soul full, I wasn’t ready to stop traveling just yet. So I packed my memories and boarded a train eastward… to a land of castles, bridges, and fairy-tale old towns.
See you at the next blog guys, byeee.
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