Berlin is simply a city you must visit. A city that has grown and prospered since the fall of the Berlin Wall in the 1980s, Berlin now has many world class hotels and accommodation facilities available, and they are very much needed with 2014 breaking records for tourists with 28.7 million overnight stays. With great deals on the web through travel sites like Expedia, here are 11 offbeat things you should do when visiting Berlin.
1. Underground Tours
The Berliner Unterwelten society hosts tours of Berlin’s underground spaces. The primary tour is located around Gesundbrunnen, an subterranean train station. You will marvel at the maze of claustrophobic concrete bunkers and shelters that were in constant use during WWII.
2. Soviet War Memorial
Astonishing in its size and scope, the Soviet War Memorial commemorates the Soviet soldiers that fell during the Battle of Berlin. Built between 1946 and 1949, the memorial features stone sarcophagi and an enormous statue of a Russian soldier carrying a child in one hand and a sword in another.
3. Zagreus Projekt
Combining the best of art and food, the Zagreus Projekt is a gallery where you can enjoy a gourmet dinner that is inspired by the artwork. Reserve your place as one of a small number of diners in this intimate and creative setting.
Image by Zagreus Projekt via Facebook
4. Mauerpark
Sundays at Mauerpark are filled with a cacophony of sound, vibrant sites, and delicious smells. Shoppers find all sorts of interesting bargains. And there is plenty of street food for those who get peckish. You must stay to hear or participate in Joe Hatchiban’s Bearpit karaoke in the afternoon.
5. Tajik Tearoom
The Tadschikische Teestube, located in the Palais am Festungsgraben is a hidden jewel. You can sip tea and enjoy Russian cuisine while seated on the luxurious floor cushions. The rich-toned décor was originally from a Tajikistan pavilion and adds an exotic atmosphere.
6. Ping Pong
Ping pong is all the rage in Berlin, with its own subculture. Parks will often have a table that locals often use. Although not much to look at, the Dr. Pong bar is always filled with people drinking and playing ping pong. Located in Prenzlauer Berg, this unusual watering hole combines music, beer, and some good (or not so good) ping pong.
7. Long Night of Museums
Berlin is home to dozens of museums — large and small, touristy and out of the way. A unique event that occurs biannually is the “Lange Nacht der Museen” or Long Night of Museums. From 6pm to 2pm museums across the city open their doors and host special tours, programs and special events.
8. Alternative Berlin Tour
Looking for a free walking tour that is organized and led by locals? Alternative Berlin offers a free tour everyday from 11am to 1pm. Anyone can just show up at Alexanderplatz by the TV tower to participate. Tipping is appreciated!
9. Walk by the Landwehrkanal
This 10km long canal is a beautiful, scenic spot. Many locals enjoy this picturesque walk and picnic or sunbathe on nice days. Here you can experience a quiet time away from the hustle and bustle of the city.
10. Escape Games
Do you like puzzles, thrills, and games? Try one of the many escape games in Berlin. Participants are locked in a room and together must figure out how to find a way out.
11. Mount Mitte
An aerial adventure like no other, Mount Mitte is perfect for adults and children alike. Climbers are safely harnessed then let loose on this aerial ropes course that features unusual climbing obstacles, such as cars and canoes suspended in mid-air.