Holidays to Berlin

Du bist so wunderbar (you are so wonderful) is Berlin's self-proclaimed slogan, and one it can claim with confidence. Despite its turbulent history, Berlin is one of the world's classiest and most cosmopolitan capitals, brimming with nightlife, museums, restaurants and cultural attractions, all waiting to be discovered with a flight to Berlin.

A flight and hotel in Berlin is the ideal way to explore this magnetic city and familiarise yourself with modern history at its finest. From mornings exploring the moving Holocaust Memorial and imposing Bundestag building to evenings sipping cocktails and dining on German staples such a schnitzel and pork knuckle in the trendy district of Kreuzberg, city breaks in Berlin will charm and delight all who visit.

Berlin currently has two airports, although a singular facility is still set to open in the future. Most European flights, including flights from London to Berlin, arrive at Berlin Schönefeld, whereas a small number arrive at Berlin Tegel. Those arriving at Schönefeld can access the metro system directly, while those at Tegel will need to take a bus before connecting to other transport options. Berlin is one hour ahead of the United Kingdom.

If you have an EU passport, you can visit Berlin visa-free, and processing times at the airports are normally minimal. You can use the euro on package holidays to Berlin.

Berlin has an excellent array of options and attractions to enjoy year round. Winters can get chilly, but warming up at one of the city's numerous Christmas markets with a delicious glass of glühwein is the perfect antidote to the cold. Summers tend to be warm, and the long days are ideally spent at one of the area's many lakes or fabulous parks.

Berlin is blessed with a wealth of wonderfully unique and quirky things to do, all of which are just a flight from Manchester to Berlin away. On Sundays, locals flock to Mauerpark (Wall Park) to browse the trinkets and vintage clothes on sale and possibly take part in a spot of karaoke. Kreuzberg's canal-side market, which takes place every other weekend, is also worth checking out. Alternatively, head to Tempelhof and explore a city park like no other. This former airport, converted into the city's largest green space, is perfect for picnics, walks, rollerblading and biking.

No trip to Berlin would be complete without exploring the city's nightlife. While there are too many specific venues to mention, the districts of Kreuzberg and Friedrichshain boast everything from quaint beer cafés to places with a livelier vibe. Mitte has a more sophisticated flair and is where you'll find plenty of high-end bars for that picture-perfect post-dinner cocktail.

Berlin's recent history is what makes it so fascinating, and exploring some of the museums and attractions pertaining to this period is a must. See the remaining section of the Berlin Wall, located near Ostbahnhof Station, which has been artistically adapted into a gallery, and then head to the DDR Museum and former Stasi headquarters. You'll find plenty of things to see and do when you opt for flight and hotel in Berlin.

Berlin has a range of attractions and sites – curate your itinerary depending on your personal preferences! Some highlights you shouldn't miss on a weekend in Berlin:

• The Brandenburg Gate
• The site of Hitler's former bunker
• The Holocaust Memorial
• The Tiergarten
• Museum Island
• The Reichstag
• The Berlin Wall
• Checkpoint Charlie

Aside from those on Museum Island, there are many other excellent museums to explore on city breaks in Berlin. The DDR Museum and the Topography of Terror brilliantly depict a darker side of the city's history, while the Museum of Photography and Kulturforum are superb modern assets to Berlin's cultural scene. If you want to visit the famous Reichstag building, the home of the German government, it's imperative that you book in advance. It's free to enter but you need to book a place and take your identification with you.

If you also have time to explore the surrounding area, you can also rent a car in Berlin.

What should you eat during a weekend in Berlin?

Eating is one of the delights of any holiday, and package holidays in Berlin are no exception. German cuisine boasts a range of delightful dishes to sample. Try traditional currywurst, bratwurst, and roast pork, all served at most German restaurants, and vegetarian-friendly spätzle – a pasta somewhat like a thick egg noodle served with various delicious toppings.

Local and national beers are generally of excellent quality in Germany, and the wine produced in the Rhine region, such as Riesling, is vastly underrated and a must-sample for oenophiles. Surprisingly, kebab was invented in Berlin. It's popular in the city, particularly in Turkish neighbourhoods, and it's often made with fresh vegetables and quality meat. A quick kebab for lunch on package holidays in Berlin will change your understanding of this humble food forever.

What to bring home from Berlin

As popular as Berlin is among travellers, you may find souvenir shops aren't as ubiquitous there as in other cities. Some nice gifts to take back include miniature bottles of German liquors, such as Bärenjäger and Jägermeister, European chocolates and selections of fantastic local beers. If you're visiting over the festive season, pick up some goodies at traditional Christmas markets – they make wonderful souvenirs and you can support the local craft industry.