subject: Places Worth Visiting In Berlin, Germany [print this page] A city once divided by the waves of history, Berlin offers plenty of things to see. Whether you start your sightseeing trip from East Berlin or West Berlin, it does not really matter, as you will be drawn towards the most popular sites all tourists love to visit.
The old and the new: Reichstag
The building known as the Reichstag represents the most important work of Paul Wallot, who erected the building towards the end of the 19th century. Here, the German Bundestag holds its meetings and the Reichstag is known as the seat of the federal government. A recently added transparent dome is favored by tourists and local visitors alike. The Reichstag successfully combines the old and the new, as more than a decade ago the well know architect, Sir Norman Forster, started an ample process of renovating and revamping the building. During that time, the transparent dome was added, and that part is open to the general public so everyone can walk in and watch the political process in full display. This dome is truly a symbol of how the German government chooses to make a statement about the transparency of their actions.
Take a stroll on the legendary Friedrichstrasse
Friedrichstrasse is one of the most popular streets in Berlin, and more than just a historical site, although its history knew plenty of turbulence in the past. The famous Berlin Wall cut this street in half, dividing it for almost 40 years. Back in the '20s, the street was especially known for its vivid entertainment, represented by chic cafes, variety theaters (among which the "Wintergarten" was all the rage during that time), pleasure palaces and many other theaters. Today, Friedrichstrasse continues to entertain visitors through plenty of options, largely appreciated by tourists and locals working nearby.
Visit the old crossing point at Checkpoint Charlie
While the Berlin Wall kept the people living in the city separated between East and West, Checkpoint Charlie served as the solely crossing point between East Germany and West Germany during the duration of the Cold War. For many years, Germans from East Germany looked at Checkpoint Charlie as towards a gateway to freedom, and it was there that the Russian tanks and American forces stood face to face during the 1961 crisis. Nowadays, people wanting to see Checkpoint Charlie need to visit the Allied Museum situated in Dahlem.
The famous Alexanderplatz
Locals like to call it simply Alex, and Alexanderplatz is one of the most appreciated places in Berlin. The square almost disappeared during World War II because of the destruction taking place everywhere else. Now, the peaceful plaza is a place where people like to gather to admire the enormous TV Tower or the World Time Clock. Among the most appreciated landmarks of this square, you will also find the Fountain of International Friendship.
There are plenty of other places to see when in Berlin, Germany, and the ones presented above are only a few. For a longer stay, consult more travel guides so you will not miss anything.
