Berlin

"Berlin combines the culture of New York, the traffic system of Tokyo, the nature of Seattle, and the historical treasures of, well, Berlin." Hiroshi Motomura

Berlin, Germany’s capital and home to roughly 3.5 million people, is the second most populous city-proper in the European Union, and full to the brim with attractions. Dating back as far as the 13^th Century, it has been the site of many significant historical events, and this is plain to see, with regal palaces, cathedrals, and memorials aplenty. For the culturally minded, Berlin boasts renowned orchestras, museums, universities and sporting events. Economically, it has become a centre for high-tech industries, and this partially explains why Berlin is also a transport hub for European air and rail passengers.

For the young at heart, Berlin has perhaps the most diverse and attractive nightlife of the whole continent. With no legal closing time on weekends, revellers can dance – to a range of different musical styles – til they drop. The clubs themselves have storied histories; many were previously Soviet buildings which, when the Berlin Wall tumbled, became and remain important counter-cultural locations. With its temperate climate, Berlin is worth a visit at any time of year, and has something for everyone.

A long weekend in Berlin

Further afield: A day in Potsdam