15 Top Attractions in Berlin for Your Next Trip to Germany

Despite its tumultuous past, Berlin’s multifaceted and unshakably rich persona and history have turned it into one of the most visited cities not only in Germany but also in Europe. Aside from its cultural flair, Berlin is also known for its distinct architecture, dynamic entertainment, shopping centers, and diverse art scene encompassing hundreds of unique attractions.

From hard-hitting memorials and museums to exhilarating nightlife, here are the must-see 15 attractions in Berlin for your next trip to Germany.

 

 

15 Best Tourist Attractions to Visit in Berlin

 

1. Brandenburg Gate

This is probably the most famous historical landmark in Berlin. Once a symbol of division, the Brandenburger Tor is now the token for peace and unity. Built for a commission by King Frederick Wilhelm II in 1788, the wall is inspired by the Acropolis of Athens.

2. The Reichstag

Just near the vicinity of the Brandenburg Gate is The Reichstag. It is the seat of the German Parliament and is considered to be a historical landmark. 

Having experienced a great deal of damage during the Battle of Berlin, The Reichstag has not been fully restored until the Berlin Wall fell down.

Tip: The Reichstag offers magnificent views of Berlin from the glass dome at the top of the building. Register in advance in order to gain entry access.

3. Berlin Wall Memorial

The Gedenkstätte Berliner Mauer is a memorial built to pay respects to the countless people who died while trying to get across the Berlin Wall during the Cold War.

Acting as a reminder of the hostility that once divided not only Europe but also the world, the four-meter-high wall used to extend 155 km (96 miles) but now only stretches 1.4 km (less than a mile).

4. Holocaust Memorial

The Holocaust Memorial is a hard-hitting tribute to the Jews who perished during World War 2. It consists of 2,711 concrete slabs (each varying in height and lengths) that covers over 250,000 square feet of land.

At the base of the memorial site, visitors can find diaries, letters, and photographs of Holocaust victims.

5. Jewish Museum Berlin

Established in 2001, the Jewish Museum Berlin houses historical artifacts and collections that show the struggle of Jewish Germans dating back to the Middle Ages until the present.

It also includes a massive library and gallery in which about 24,000 photographs were preserved and recovered.

6. Berlin Television Tower

Known as the Berliner Fernsehturm for German locals, the Berlin Television Tower is the tallest structure in all of Germany. It has an observation deck that offers a sweeping panorama view of the beautiful city.

Tip: Fancy a bite? You may also head on over to the site’s upscale restaurant just below the main observation deck.

7. Potsdamer Platz

This vibrant corner of Berlin served as a symbol for the reconnection of the two halves of the city. It is now filled with art, entertainment, and shopping centers where celebs often hang around. 

8. Museum Island

Museum Island is a UNESCO world heritage site and is the home to Berlin’s most important and oldest museums—the Altes Museum, the Neues Museum, the Bode Museum, the Pergamon Museum and the Alte Nationalgalerie.

The collections at these exhibition centers comprise of pre-historic, ancient, and modern pieces of art.

Tip: Want to visit all these museums? It’s best to get a 3-day Berlin Museum Pass where you’ll have free admission to most of the exhibition centers located in the city.

9. German Historical Museum

Another must-visit tourist attraction in Berlin is the Deutsches Historisches Museum, or the German Historical Museum. It houses a wide range of artifacts from different periods and events as well as a cinema and a research library open for the public.

10. Kaiser Wilhelm Memorial Church

The Kaiser-Wilhelm-Gedächtniskirche is divided into two buildings—the tall concrete-and-glass structure and next to it, the striking ruins of the original Neoclassical tower that broke down.

Aside from being a religious centre, the Kaiser Wilhelm Memorial Church also serves as a war memorial, with art exhibits encompassing architectural remnants, mosaic remains, and photos.

11. Berlin Cathedral

Situated in the area where the Museum Island is located, the Berliner Dom is the largest church in the city and is split into three sections—the Baptismal and Nuptial Church, the Memorial Church, and the Parish Church.

The main highlights of the church include the Imperial Staircase and the Hohenzollern Crypt.

Tip: For magnificent views over Museum Island, climb the 270 steps up to the top of the church’s dome.

12. Gendarmenmarkt

Dating back to the 17th century, the Gendarmenmarkt is one of the top attractions in Berlin.

It is a major public square where tourists can lounge at the numerous cafés and restaurants, shop at the various markets, attend a concert, or just simply watch as the world goes by.

13. Kurfürstendamm

Usually regarded as Germany’s own version of the Champs-Elysee in Paris, the Kurfürstendamm is Berlin’s most popular shopping boulevard. From fresh produce to expensive jewelry, it has everything both tourists and locals might want to purchase.

Did You Know? The largest department store in all of Europe, Kaufhaus des Westens, is situated along the Kurfürstendamm.

14. Charlottenburg Palace

Charlottenburg Palace is the largest and most significant palace in Germany. Constructed at the end of the 17th century, it used to be the primary residence of the German royalty but is now open for the public.

It boasts of both Rococo and Baroque decor, a massive central dome, beautiful gardens, and outdoor sculptures.

15. Grosser Tiergarten

Originally a royal hunting reserve, the Grosser Tiergarten literally translates to “Animal Garden.” The large expanse of land was now transformed into a public park.

It contains various historical monuments and statues such as the Victory Column and the Statue of Queen Louise. 

5 Essential Travel Tips to Make the Most Out of Your Berlin Tour

In order to fully enjoy your trip to Germany, it’s important to know these 5 travel tips when visiting its capital city, Berlin. 

1. Buy a Public Transportation Ticket

Berlin is a huge city. To save you both money (skip the taxi!) and time (you don’t want to miss your reservation!), get a public transportation ticket.

It gives you access to all public transportation in Berlin from the S-Bahn and U-Bahn to buses and even ferries.

2. Pay in Cash

Most restaurants and other commercial establishments in Berlin still don’t accept credit cards. It’s best to have enough cash on hand or ask if the stores accept cards.

Be sure to keep an eye on your wallet, though, as you may encounter  pickpockets in the top attractions in Berlin.

3. Don’t Forget to Tip

In Berlin, most people practice tipping as it’s a way to say an extra “Danke” for the attentive service. Acceptable tips in restaurants are at least 10-15% but rounding up the bill is another way to go at it.

4. Embrace the Locals’ Directness

The Germans are known for their direct and straightforward personality. And depending on where you originally came from, this may come across as rude. 

However, it’s perfectly normal for them to yell at someone or give you a chilling stare. Embrace it and you’ll see Berlin in a different light.

5. Brush Up on Some History

Berlin has a turbulent past. If you really want to pay homage to the city’s rich history, do your research and visit historical sites for an impactful visit.

 

Berlin is one of the most visited cities in Europe. Known for its flourishing art scene, vibrant nightlife, and rich history, it’s easy to know why this city tops the list of many tourists’ travel itineraries.

 

ALSO READ: 10 Best Cities to Visit in Europe with an ETIAS Visa Waiver

 

Berlin is the capital and biggest city of Germany, a Western European country soon to be a part of the ETIAS Visa Waiver. If you’re planning to tour Berlin sometime in the future, it’s best to know about the new travel regulations.

ETIAS Schengen Visa is your one-stop guide when it comes to news and information about the ETIAS policy. We also offer ETIAS visa application assistance for a hassle-free trip not only to Germany but also to other Schengen member states. Contact us today to learn more!

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When in Italy: 12 Best Restaurants in Rome to Try Out

The Eternal City is not only the home to historical attractions but is also the place where you can find the best restaurants amongst ETIAS countries, if not the world. From Michelin-starred establishments to highly-recommended trattorias and underrated osterias, choosing where to eat in Rome can be quite overwhelming. But no matter which direction you’d like to try, everything (for the most part) would be delicious! 

Ready to dig in? Here is a list of the 12 best restaurants in Rome to try out.

 

Where to Eat in Rome: 12 Best Restaurants to Visit

 

1. Roscioli

Established in 2005, Roscioli has since been a household name. This deli-restaurant located in the heart of Rome is definitely a must-try while you’re in the city. It’s owned by the Roscioli family who has been working in the world of hospitality, food, and wine for at least 4 generations now. This experience and passion truly show in the cuisine they serve in their humble restaurant. 

Try their array of cold cuts, fresh cheese, and pickled products that you can get straight from their deli counter. You should also taste their wine selection which is an absolute must when visiting this Rome restaurant.

Tip: Roscioli is one of the restaurants in Rome that’s truly beloved by both locals and travelers alike. It’s best to plan your visit and book a table in advance. 

2. La Pergola

La Pergola is the only fine dining restaurant in Rome that has earned three Michelin stars for its gourmet Italian cuisine. Situated inside the 5-star Rome Cavalieri Waldorf Astoria Hotel, it offers unparalleled views across the Eternal City. It also has a wide display of rare sculptures, paintings, and tapestries which can make this Rome restaurant double as a museum in itself.

The menu changes regularly but definitely one of the must-tries in this Rome restaurant is its Mediterranean dishes. It’s complemented by a wine cellar containing 53,000 bottles and 29 different kinds of water. For the true Roman dining experience, choose a seat at the alfresco area where you can freely enjoy the gorgeous panorama of the Eternal City.

3. Il Pagliaccio

Il Pagliaccio is one of the best restaurants in Rome and the only one earning two Michelin stars. What makes it so popular is its laidback bare-brick setting which seats only 28 guests—making it intimate and exclusive.

This Rome restaurant specializes in Italian classic cuisine but with a modern twist that you may not recognize them as such. All their dishes also came in very beautiful and delicate presentations which makes it almost a crime to devour such works of art.

Did You Know? Il Pagliaccio is the best restaurant in Rome where you can host a business dinner for 8 to 10 people.

4. Aroma

Aroma is a Rome restaurant that probably offers the most magnificent view of the Eternal City—the Colosseum. Like Il Pagliaccio, this Michelin-starred restaurant only caters to a small number of guests which makes it both intimate yet perfectly grandiose.

Aroma’s head chef is Roman-born Di Lorio who has mastered traditional Italian cooking. His main courses, revolving around five different varieties of pasta, are a must-try in this restaurant in Rome. One should also look forward to the appetizers which showcase lesser-known species of fish along with locally produced meat.

5. Imàgo

Imàgo is another Michelin-starred restaurant in Rome. Located on the 6th floor of the Hotel Hassler Roma, it provides an exceptional panorama view of the ancient city.

This particular Rome restaurant boasts of innovative cuisine, exceptional service, and unparalleled old-world charm. Must-try dishes include the Capellini Aglio with smoked eel and Parmigiano Reggiano made with tuna and edamame. Of course, one shouldn’t miss a glass of wine at Imàgo.

Did You Know? Imàgo was the first rooftop-restaurant in Rome to open in the 1950s.

6. Bistrot64

Bistrot64 prides itself as the most affordable Michelin-starred restaurant in Rome. It’s not only worth a visit for its excellent value but also for its fun mix of cuisines.

Kotaro Noda, a well-known chef in the Italian and international gastronomic scene, combines Italian flavors with the method of Japanese cooking for an ultimately distinct menu. Aside from scintillating flavor combinations, the presentations of his dishes are masterpieces on their own with color playing an important role. 

Must-tries at this Rome restaurant are the blue risotto served with lemon and thyme as well as the purple potatoes mixed with blackberries and mascarpone.

7. Moma

Located opposite the United States Embassy, this Michelin-starred restaurant in Rome is named after New York City’s Museum of Modern Art. It is recognized for its “easy and refined” cuisine made with high-quality ingredients.

Moma actually has two sides—a bistro and a gourmet—which makes it a one-of-a-kind restaurant. Its bistro side is popular amongst Rome’s business crowd who flock to taste the simple food and of course, the coffee bar. The gourmet side, on the other hand, serves artistic dishes and unusual combinations. Look out for the persimmon with blue cheese and walnuts and grilled calamari with strawberries and foie gras mousse.

8. Giulia

Located in the historic center of the Eternal City, Giulia is probably the best romantic restaurant in Rome. It offers an uninterrupted view of one of the most fascinating streets in town, thanks to its large glass window displays. 

Chef Pierluigi Gallo, born in the Campania region and studied culinary skills in Abruzzo, heads this Rome restaurant and offers a menu that is both rustic yet refined. He reimagines classic Italian comfort food that would delight guests.

If you’re visiting this particular restaurant in Rome, make sure to taste the oxtail with celery and cocoa ketchup as well as the risotto with mandarin and burnt onion.

9. Pianostrada

Pianostrada used to be a literal hole-in-the-wall where people would line up in hopes of snagging a seat in the cramped bar. Today, it has moved to a new location to become one of the hippest restaurants in Rome.

Headed by two mother-daughter duos, you can watch talented ladies cook excellent dishes from the open kitchen. Try out most (if not all the food!) in the menu specializing in gourmet dishes and shareable plates. Special mentions include focaccia appetizers, squid ink burger, and pasta with zucchini flowers.

Did You Know? Pianoestrada has a sister-restaurant in Rome called Pianoalto, which is home to a gorgeous rooftop terrace.

10. Seu Pizza Illuminati

Seu Pizza Illuminati has been widely recognized as the best pizzeria in the Eternal City. Named after its founder—Pier Daniele Seu, this Rome restaurant has a refreshingly contemporary setting that would appeal to all. 

Make sure to taste their dozens of mouthwatering Neopolitan pizzas that are baked to perfection. From classic marinara and margherita to creative flavors such as pistachio crumbles and smoked salmon, you’ll surely find a pie that best suits your tastebuds. Lastly, save room for their sweet dessert pizzas in strawberry coulis, fresh mint, or candied almonds.

Tip: Before digging into the main course, it’s best to try the Rome restaurant’s selection of fried starters (fritti) to whet your appetite. 

11. Trattoria Pennestri

Trattoria Pennestri quietly opened in 2017 but has since captured the hearts of many food enthusiasts. What makes it one of the best restaurants in Rome is its curated selection of inventive dishes that are both rustic yet refined. This reflects the restaurant’s cozy interiors and warm service.

The menu changes seasonally but look out for the fettuccine with sausage, pici with broccoli rabe, and mint pesto. To accompany your meal, feel free to browse through their wine selection offering more than 60 Italian bottles. Trattoria Pennestri also serves one of the best desserts in Rome so save room for its sweet and salty chocolate mousse. It is served between crunchy layers of Sardinian flatbread and infused with rosemary and sea salt for a distinct version of a traditional dessert.

12. Perilli

Established in 1911, Perilli has been serving Roman classics for a century already. This particular restaurant in Rome is simple, quiet, and unpretentious yet has a certain class and elegance that would charm every guest. 

With tables that are covered in starch white cloths and jammed with locals, one would feel like they stumbled upon someone else’s secret when visiting Perilli. You should try out their carbonara, which is widely considered to be the best in the Eternal City. Save room for their secondi dishes such as the abbacchio al forno (roast lamb) and coda alla vaccinara (oxtail stew).

Tip: Perilli is one of the most popular restaurants in Rome visited by the locals. It’s recommended to book a table in advance, especially during weekend lunches.

 

ALSO READ: Why You Should Visit Sicily

 

Considered to be one of the best food cities in the world, figuring out where to eat in Rome can be quite challenging. Fortunately, this list of 12 best restaurants in Rome to try out can help you discover the amazing dishes the Eternal City has to offer.

Rome is located in Italy which is a member of the Schengen Area. This country is soon to be part of the ETIAS visa waiver scheme. To keep updated with the latest news of the scheme, etiasvisaschengen.com, an ETIAS visa assistance company, is your go-to resource. Contact us today to learn more!

Found this article helpful? Check our news page for more information about the ETIAS visa waiver scheme.

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Picture Perfect Destinations: 24 Most Instagrammable Places in Europe

Say cheese! What better way to bring back the memories of a great European trip than good vacation photos? There are certainly hundreds of great sites to see in one country alone. However, there are a few hotspots that look absolutely stunning that would be a shame not to capture. Try visiting the places that would look amazing in your online feed. Strike a pose with your vacation buddies in any of these 24 most Instagrammable places in Europe.

 

#InstaTravels: 24 Most Instagrammable Places in Europe

Croatia

The relatively small country of Croatia is filled with beautiful sceneries with an old-town feeling to them. Capture Croatia and all its wonders in these Instagrammable places.  

1. Dubrovnik City Walls

The Walls of Dubrovnik offers special tours where you can take a photo with the city behind you. There’s even a tour where they take you through where the scenes from HBO’s “Game of Thrones’ ‘were shot.  

2. Zagreb Cathedral

This Neo-Gothic Style Cathedral with its majestic structure makes a great architectural photo. Tip: The church looks incredible with sunset lighting!

Denmark

Make your mark in the lovely capital of Denmark. Copenhagen is home to captivating streets, interesting buildings, and one of the most fun gardens in Europe.

3. Tivoli Gardens, Copenhagen

The Tivoli Gardens holds the second-oldest running amusement park in the world. The lights at night will bring out a perfect mix of old carnival charm and vibrancy for your photos.   

France

Paris is a hands-down stunning capital too good to ignore for your feed. Hit the must-sees with a couple of creative ideas for an Instagrammable photo.

4. The Eiffel Tower, Trocadero

Everyone takes a picture of the Eiffel Tower to let people know they’re in Paris. Take a good snap of this wonderful structure as a great addition to your feed.  

5. Louvre Pyramid

Another great symbol of Paris is the Louvre Pyramid, which lights up beautifully at night. Note that this is a museum, so photography is only allowed outside.

6. Pont Alexander III, Champs-Élysées

This deck arch bridge is so detailed and architecturally impressive that it deserves a great photo opt. Get a good angle off the bridge to truly capture its magnificence. 

Germany

Germany is rich in history that can all be encapsulated into one photo. Give some meaning to your social feed with these historically Instagrammable places that speak for themselves. 

7. The Berlin Wall

The remains of the Berlin Wall stand today as a great symbol of the Cold War. Today, several street artists have tagged on it with meaningful art or messages that would make a shareable photo.

8. Neuschwanstein Castle, Munich 

If you’re looking for a fairytale-like photo opt, this castle fits the description. The Neuschwanstein Castle in Munich is a picturesque historical site great for ethereal images. 

Greece

Greece is a vacationer’s paradise and a photographer’s dream location, which makes it a very Instagrammable place for most people. Celebrities like Katerine Mcphee and Izabel Goulart took some Instagram posts celebrating their stay in this beautiful country.   

9. Oia Cliffside, Santorini

Santorini is filled with enchanting white and blue-domed structures that it would be a shame not to capture it all. Take a pic at the Oia Cliffside so the entire Santorini view can fit in the frame.

10. Little Venice, Mykonos 

Little Venice is one of the most aesthetic places for a pleasant photo walk. The cobblestone path that stretches across the waterfront city leads to stunning views of the buildings, the windmills, and the beach itself.

11. Elafonisi, Crete

The island of Crete holds mesmerizing beaches like that of Elafonisi, where the clear water rushes up against the ocean rocks. If you’re lucky, you might come at a time where the sand is pink, which would look amazing in your vacation feed.

Hungary

The subtle European country of Hungary upholds its heritage to this day. Budapest, the country’s capital, has been the setting for many Hollywood films.  

12. Fisherman’s Bastion, Budapest

This large and majestic structure boasts of great Neo-Romanesque structures you can easily wander off to. This dramatic castle is a great photo opt setting anywhere you go.

Iceland

Up for a nature shoot in the land of ice and fire? Iceland has a perfect view of the northern lights, something you can capture for yourself. 

13. The Blue Lagoon

The Blue Lagoon is the perfect spot to snap a photo of Aurora Borealis. Plus, it’s a great vacation spot to sit back and unwind!

Italy 

If European culture is what you’re after in your feed, then Italy is a great country for you. Instagram superstars like Selena Gomez have posted viral photos from their stay here. 

14. The Colosseum, Rome

Rome is a must-visit destination in Italy with great food and an overall European vibe. A picture with the great Colosseum is just one of those photo opts that you can’t miss out on.

15. Duomo, Milan

There is no bad angle to take a picture of the Duomo cathedral. This colorful structure has magnificent detailing work that will look amazing through your lens. 

16. Burano, Venice

The little island of Burano is filled with colorful fishermen’s houses that look amazing in pictures. The pop of vibrant colors is exactly what you need for a great vacation feed.

Malta 

The island of Malta is filled with historical sites that take you on a great European journey to the past. 

17. Strait Street, Valletta

There is no bad angle to take a picture of the Duomo cathedral. This colorful structure has magnificent detailing work that just has to go into one of your photos.

18. Citadel, Gozo

Ever wonder what it’s like living in the bronze age? Then going through the Citadel of Gozo will bring your photos back in time to the simpler days. Now that’s a #Throwback photo that will be hard to beat! 

The Netherlands

If trendy urban areas are what you’re after, the Netherlands is the place to be. Hook your feed with amazing structures that you won’t find elsewhere.

19. Groenburgwal City Center, Amsterdam

Amsterdam is one of the trendiest cities to feature on your feed. The Groenburgwal City Center is where you’d want to be for great modern-like photoshoots.

20. Cube Houses, Rotterdam

Switching up your angles? The Cube Houses in Rotterdam may just challenge your angling skills. This architectural marvel would make a very intriguing post.

Spain

Spain is a country that boasts rich and fiesty culture. Instagrammable places like Madrid and Seville make this country one of the most ideal countries for that cute summer vibe.

21. Casa Batlló, Barcelona

Culture? Check. Color? Check. Festive vibes? Check. Casa Batlló is the place you want to be for stunning summer vacation photos.

22. Las Setas de Sevilla, Seville

This geometrically intriguing spot is the reason people come to take photos. It’s these illusions and patterns make the Las Setas de Sevilla very Instagrammable. 

Sweden

Swedish cities often ooze with art and creativity on the streets. The most Instagrammable places are everyday structures the locals are used to. But as a tourist with a need for a picture-perfect feed, this country will truly excite you. 

23. Gamla stan, Stockholm

Stockholm is home to the famous Gamla stan, a series of aesthetically pleasing colorful buildings that will bring the summer urban vibes in photos.

24. Järntorget, Gothenburg 

Nothing like a city square district to  make a modern city style outfit pop! Tip: this Instagrammable place comes alive in Spring. The cherry blossoms are out and ready, which make for a cross photo between urban and softness.

 

3 InstaTips For Awesome Vacation Photos

 

1. Capture the Details

It would be a real shame if you didn’t get every bit of the scenery inframe. Try switching up angles or stepping back a little farther to get the right snapshot.

2. Avoid Cliche Poses  

If you want Instagrammable feed, don’t be afraid to switch up your poses. Kneel on the floor, stand against a wall, or throw your hands up to the sky. There is so much more you could do!

3. Smile!

Feel free to live in the moment. A smile can tie up the fun vacation vibes that you’d need for your feed.

Pictures truly can paint a thousand words, so don’t be afraid to capture these moments on your trip to Europe. Take pride in the destination you’ve visited and the journey you’ve taken to be there. And lastly, feel free to share these moments with the ones who matter most online. 

 

Also Read: The ETIAS Profile: 4 Non-Shengen Countries that Allow ETIAS Visa Waivers 

 

These picturesque views and places are all from places within the Schengen area, which are all part of the ETIAS visa waiver scheme that will be implemented by 2021. Etiasvisaschengen.com is a visa assistance service that will keep you updated on the latest news on this travel application. For the time being, this company can help assist you with many of your other European travel concerns. Contact us to avail of our services! 

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