Berlin City Break for PLEBS: A Walking Tour Through History, Art, and Hidden Gems

Berlin is a city that wears its layered history on its streets, blending the old and new, East and West, with an open, creative spirit. This curated walking tour skips the typical tourist spots, inviting you to experience Berlin through the lens of art, culture, and culinary finds.

Berlin with an artwork in the background and an old black car with the words Achtung Baby painted on it

Morning: Exploring Berlin’s Past

Start: Brandenburg Gate & Holocaust Memorial

Brandenburg Gate is a fitting start to your Berlin adventure, symbolizing unity in the wake of a divided past. This iconic gate, once part of the Berlin Wall’s “Death Strip,” now serves as a reminder of peace and unity.

Just a short walk away, you’ll find the Memorial to the Murdered Jews of Europe (Holocaust Memorial). With 2,711 stark concrete slabs that seem to ripple over the landscape, this memorial offers a place for reflection on Berlin’s painful history. Take your time walking among the columns, as the experience can feel both grounding and profound.


Coffee Stop: The Barn Roastery

The Barn Roastery, located in the heart of Mitte, is a top spot to begin your day with a quality coffee. Known for its sustainable sourcing and minimalist aesthetic, this roastery sets the tone for a thoughtful day in Berlin. Order a pour-over or espresso and settle in to plan your next stops.


Late Morning: Art, History, and Hidden Corners

Stop: Jewish Museum Berlin

Designed by architect Daniel Libeskind, the Jewish Museum is a cultural experience as much as a historical one. Through its exhibitions, it tells the stories of Jewish life in Berlin over centuries, including the tragedies of the Holocaust. The architecture itself is symbolic, with voids and sharp angles that represent the rupture caused by this history.


Exploring Kreuzberg’s Unique Vibe

From the museum, wander into Kreuzberg, one of Berlin’s most vibrant neighbourhoods, known for its bohemian spirit, street art, and multicultural feel. Once a gritty area of West Berlin, Kreuzberg now buzzes with creativity. Walk down Oranienstraße to see vibrant street art and independent shops, and soak up Kreuzberg’s relaxed, alternative vibe.

Lunch: Markthalle Neun

Berlin’s food culture thrives at Markthalle Neun, a local favourite in Kreuzberg that’s packed with independent food stalls offering everything from artisanal sandwiches to vegetarian dishes. Sample some local Berlin specialities or tuck into international dishes. For a real treat, try the fresh pasta from Mani in Pasta or a slice of pizza from Sironi.


Afternoon: East Side Art and Architectural Juxtapositions

Stop: East Side Gallery

Take a short walk or hop on public transport to reach the East Side Gallery in Friedrichshain. This open-air gallery stretches 1.3 km along the Berlin Wall, showcasing politically charged murals painted by artists from around the world after the Wall fell. It’s a reminder of the Cold War and the spirit of freedom that defined Berlin’s East. Watch out for pick pockets in this area. 


Explore Friedrichshain’s Flea Markets and Vintage Shops

Friedrichshain offers a grittier, more industrial charm than Mitte, with remnants of Berlin’s divided past. Boxhagener Platz hosts a lively flea market on Sundays, brimming with vintage goods and quirky finds. If you’re visiting mid-week, check out the vintage shops around Warschauer Straße or RAW-Gelände, an old train repair yard transformed into a complex of clubs, galleries, and markets.

Coffee Break: Silo Coffee

Recharge at Silo Coffee in Friedrichshain, a cozy and hip spot known for its expertly brewed coffee and rustic, welcoming interior. Their flat whites are legendary, and they have a small but well-curated menu featuring avocado toast and other fresh bites.


Evening: A Unique Dinner Experience and History Uncovered

Stop: Checkpoint Charlie and Cold War History

Make your way to Checkpoint Charlie, one of the most famous crossing points between East and West Berlin during the Cold War. Though reconstructed, the site offers a glimpse into the divided city’s tense past. For a deeper dive, the Berlin Wall Museum nearby features original escape plans and stories of life on either side of the divide.


West vs. East Berlin: An Unmissable Contrast

At this point in the walk, you’ll start to notice how Berlin’s East and West sides differ architecturally and atmospherically. West Berlin carries a polished, cosmopolitan feel with larger streets and remnants of pre-war elegance, while the East has an edgy, alternative style. Berlin’s post-war reconstruction heavily influenced this contrast, and these unique ambiances remind us of the city’s past as a divided metropolis.

Dinner: Lokal or Katz Orange
End your day at Lokal in Mitte, known for its locally sourced ingredients and a menu that changes seasonally, showcasing Berlin’s dedication to fresh, sustainable food. Dishes are simple yet refined, with a relaxed atmosphere that’s perfect for unwinding after a day of exploration.

Alternatively, Katz Orange in Mitte offers a cozy, refined experience with a menu focused on sustainably sourced ingredients. The beautiful candle-lit space, set in a historic brewery courtyard, is ideal for a memorable Berlin evening.


Evening Option: Classic Film at Babylon Cinema or Volksbühne Theatre

If you’re in the mood for a cinematic experience, head to Babylon Cinema for a classic or alternative film. This historic venue, dating back to 1929, features a rotating selection of art-house films with English subtitles.

For a live performance, the Volksbühne Theatre is a nearby choice that’s perfect for avant-garde theatre fans. This iconic venue is known for experimental productions that push the boundaries of traditional performance art.


Quick Tips for PLEB Readers

Getting Around
Berlin’s public transport system is incredibly efficient. A day pass will take you wherever you need to go.

Seasonal Delights
Visiting around Christmas? Stop by Gendarmenmarkt or Lucia Christmas Market for festive cheer, artisanal goods, and a warming mug of Glühwein.


Parks and Peaceful Spots

For a winter stroll, Tiergarten offers picturesque, snowy views, while Volkspark Friedrichshain is quieter and more local-friendly.

Berlin’s soul lies in its mix of old and new, art and history, and an open-minded, cosmopolitan outlook. This city break promises PLEB readers an experience that dives beneath the surface, offering an authentic, memorable encounter with Berlin’s unique spirit.

Northern Lights, Milky-way, Moonset, in Iceland Getty Images
Northern Lights, Milky-way, Moonset, in Iceland.
Image Credit Getty Images

Finland

Overview
Known as the official hometown of Santa Claus, Rovaniemi in Finnish Lapland is a winter wonderland with regular Northern Lights displays. Rovaniemi is definitely more of a winter place to visit, but to view the Northern Lights, it is recommended. But be aware that many of the activities available are only offered in the wintertime or for larger groups. Getting around North of Rovaniemi often requires a car or a booked tourist bus tour. Santa Claus Village is the place where you can step over into the Arctic Circle and if you like dogs, you can spend time with Huskies in the Husky park next to Santa Claus Village. It’s easy to get the bus to the village from Rovaniemi and takes about twenty minutes, driving time.

Getting Around
Fly directly into Rovaniemi and get around with car rentals, or book guided excursions to Northern Lights hotspots. You can take the overnight train from Helsinki to Rovaniemi, and it’s well worth it. 

Places to Stay
Arctic TreeHouse Hotel offers luxury pods in nature with skylights for aurora viewing, and Santa Claus Holiday Village is a family-friendly option. The Village is also where you can step over into the Arctic Circle and spend time with huskies in the Husky Park.

Where to Eat
Sample Nordic flavours at Ravintola Nili and Restaurant Roka Street Bistro.

Getting Cosy
Enjoy a hot chocolate or mulled wine at Cafe Kauppayhtiö, a rustic spot in the heart of Rovaniemi.


Sweden

Overview
Nestled in Sweden’s Lapland, Abisko is famous for its clear skies and reliable auroras. The Abisko National Park even has what’s called a blue hole, which is an area often clear of clouds, perfect for Northern Lights sightings.

Getting Around
Fly to Kiruna, then take a train or drive to Abisko. The Aurora Sky Station offers guided night trips for enhanced viewing. You can also take the overnight train from Stockholm up to Kiruna, but book ahead as this train journey is quite popular.

Places to Stay
The Abisko Mountain Lodge and Aurora Village provide cosy cabins close to the best views.

Where to Eat
Try Restaurant Lapporten for local reindeer dishes and Swedish specialities.

Getting Cozy
STF Abisko Turiststation offers comfortable lounges where you can relax after a day out in the cold.

The Aurora Borealis, also known as the Northern lights, putting on a show over Achmelvich beach, Sutherland, in the Highlands of Scotland, UK. Getty Images-2
The Aurora Borealis, also known as the Northern lights, putting on a show over Achmelvich beach, Sutherland, in the Highlands of Scotland, UK.
Image Credit Getty Images

Scotland

Overview
Scotland’s rugged northern coastline and remote islands make for excellent Northern Lights sightings, known locally as the Mirrie Dancers. Cairngorms National Park, Isle of Skye, and the Orkney Islands are among the best places to view them.

Getting Around
Fly into Inverness Airport or Edinburgh Airport and rent a car to reach rural locations or join Northern Lights tours for expert-led experiences. The Scottish Highlands can be snowy, so winter-ready vehicles are recommended. You can take the overnight train from London to Inverness and other locations in Scotland.

Best Viewing Spots

Cairngorms National Park
Offers vast, clear skies in winter; try spots near Aviemore for convenient access to cozy accommodations and facilities.

Isle of Skye
Known for its dramatic landscapes and coastal views, spots like The Quiraing and Neist Point are popular for viewing auroras.

Orkney Islands
A Northern Lights hotspot due to minimal light pollution, Mainland Orkney near Kirkwall offers easy access and scenic backdrops.

Places to Stay

Cairngorm Hotel in Aviemore for cozy, Highland charm with quick access to Cairngorms National Park.

Skeabost House Hotel on Isle of Skye, a historic mansion offering panoramic views.

Lynnfield Hotel in Orkney, a short drive from ideal Northern Lights vantage points.

Where to Eat

The Foveran in Orkney for local Scottish flavours like Orkney beef and seafood.

The Old Bridge Inn in Aviemore for hearty, Scottish pub fare.

The Three Chimneys on Skye, a Michelin-starred restaurant serving innovative Scottish cuisine.

Getting Cosy
Warm up after a night out at The Highland Bothies in Skye or visit The Green Lady bar in Aviemore for locally crafted gin and cozy fires.

 

Northern Lights, Milky-way, Moonset, in Iceland Getty Images
Northern Lights, Milky-way, Moonset, in Iceland.
Image Credit Getty Images

Iceland

Overview
Iceland’s diverse landscape, from volcanoes and glaciers to waterfalls and black sand beaches—makes it a stunning backdrop for the Northern Lights. Thingvellir National Park offers clear skies near Reykjavik, while Vik, with its black sand beaches, is another fantastic viewing spot.

Getting Around
Fly into Keflavik International Airport (KEF) and either rent a car or join a guided Northern Lights tour. Self-driving is popular but requires careful planning for winter conditions.

Places to Stay
Hotel Rangá in Hella, a countryside resort with outdoor hot tubs for stargazing, and Foss Hotel Glacier Lagoon near Vik, known for its modern design and scenic surroundings.

Where to Eat
Dill in Reykjavik for fine dining with a Nordic twist, and The Soup Company in Vik for hearty meals perfect after a chilly night.

Getting Cosy
Blue Lagoon Spa for geothermal relaxation under the stars, and Lava Show in Vik for an indoor experience showcasing Iceland’s volcanic side. Not far from Reykjavik is Laugarvatn Fontana, located next to a beautiful lake and comes highly recommended. 

Special Tips
Visit Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon for beautiful iceberg-filled views and, if lucky, aurora reflections on the water.


Greenland

Overview
Greenland, with its expansive Arctic landscapes, offers some of the clearest skies for aurora viewing. Ilulissat and Kangerlussuaq are both excellent locations, with the added allure of Greenland’s massive ice fjords and icy wilderness.

Getting Around
Fly into Kangerlussuaq Airport (SFJ) for easier access to viewing spots. From there, local tour companies offer guided trips for Northern Lights viewing.

Places to Stay
Hotel Arctic in Ilulissat is known for its scenic views and cosy igloo pods, and Old Camp in Kangerlussuaq offers comfortable lodging and excellent aurora sightings.

Where to Eat
Cafe Iluliaq for local Greenlandic dishes, and Restaurant Roklubben in Kangerlussuaq for cosy, Nordic-inspired meals.

Getting Cosy
Nanoq Museum in Sisimiut for an indoor cultural experience, and Kaffemik experiences for authentic Greenlandic hospitality in locals’ homes.

Special Tips
Book a dog sledding or glacier walk tour for daytime adventure and unique photo ops.

Utakleiv Beach, Lofoten Islands, Norway Getty Images
Utakleiv Beach, Lofoten Islands, Norway Getty Images.
Image Credit Getty Images

What to Wear & Pack

Base Layers
Moisture-wicking thermals to keep you warm. Or woollen undergarments.

Insulating Layers
Fleece or down jackets.

Outer Layers
Waterproof and windproof coats and trousers.

Accessories
Insulated gloves, thick woollen socks, a warm hat, and sturdy, waterproof boots. Scotland’s terrain can be uneven and icy, so microspikes for boots are a good idea.

Bring a high-quality camera, tripod, extra batteries, a wide-angle lens, and a flashlight with red light mode (to avoid disturbing night vision). A thermos of warm tea or coffee can keep you cosy on long nights. You might be waiting a while, or have to move to different locations to catch a glimpse of the Northern Lights.

Photography Tips

Capturing the Northern Lights on film is not as easy as it seems. To prepare to stun yourself and your loved ones with your pictures of the Northern Lights, we have a few tips. There might be apps for phones to record the Aurora’s, but we haven’t found one yet that captures them like a good old fashion digital camera does. Best to prep your camera the night before if you can, so you don’t miss out enjoying the Northern Lights while you’re too busy adjusting your camera settings.

Manual Mode
Set your camera to manual to control exposure and focus.

Shutter Speed
Aim for 5-25 seconds, depending on the aurora’s brightness.

ISO
Start around 800 and adjust based on the light.

Aperture
Use a wide aperture, ideally f/2.8 or lower.

Focusing
Focus on a distant light source before setting the camera to manual focus.

Weather Apps
Download Aurora apps (like Aurora Forecast) and cloud cover apps to avoid cloudy areas.

Issues with Clouds

Cloud cover is the biggest challenge in seeing the Northern Lights. Abisko, thanks to its ‘blue hole,’ is a reliable spot to avoid cloud issues. For other locations, keep an eye on the aurora forecast and consider being flexible with your location to avoid clouds when possible.

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