Berlin / Germany
An eclectic mix of the old and new. The gaudy Victorian Cathedral stands in stark contrast to the modern millennial Reichstag dome. The wonderful blend of old and new architecture could only be pulled off by a city with a history as varied as Berlin’s. Due to its historical physical divide, visiting Berlin is like visiting two cities. The old town has a quintessential European feel, whereas the newer, rebuilt city has a bustling modern vibe.
Berlin has a vast number of memorials and monuments that address its difficult history, stretching from WWII to the Cold War era. One of the city's most popular monuments, the Memorial to the Murdered Jews of Europe, commemorates the victims of the Holocaust in the form of 2,711 concrete pillars. If you’re a museum-lover, you absolutely need to visit Berlin! The Museum Island alone is home to 5 museums and is located right at the heart of the city. The city also has some of the most creative street art! There are districts overflowing with artwork. Not forgetting the striking East Side Gallery which was once the Berlin Wall and is now the longest open-air gallery in the world. Furthermore, I must say that, compared to other capitals in Europe, Berlin is actually a pretty affordable city to visit. A city that has been my travel destination on more than one occasion.