SULTRY SIPS
Germany’s capital city is a cultural treasure chest, bursting with a fascinating contemporary arts scene, world-class gastronomy, and sleepless neon-soaked nightclubs that are at-once gritty and glamorous. Offerings are stacked, which can prove overwhelming for first-timers. Start the night at Kink, a hip restaurant + cocktail club concept in the trendy Prenzlauer Berg district. Housed in a former brewery with high ceilings and an impressive modern art display, Kink features live DJs every week, from new-age electronica to disco. The menu is limited but luxe, spanning wild octopus to beetroot risotto, and pairs perfectly with a library list of eclectic drinkables such as clarified milk punches (spiked, of course) and smoky mezcal blends topped with house spicy ginger lemonade. kink-berlin.de
EAST SIDE STORY
At the East Side Gallery, past and present collide as the prodigious landmark stands as both a powerful historical monument and a vibrant open-air art gallery, stretching over a mile along the remains of the Berlin Wall. This iconic site features more than 100 murals painted by artists from around the world, transforming a symbol of division into a vivid canvas of unity, freedom, and political expression. Walking along the gallery, visitors can drink in famous artworks like The Kiss by Dmitri Vrubel and Test the Rest by Birgit Kinder, each telling a unique story about the wall’s past and hopes for a better future. The fusion of history, culture, and creativity makes the East Side Gallery an essential stop for anyone wishing to experience Berlin’s rich and complex past firsthand. stiftung-berliner-mauer.de
LANDMARK LAYOVER
Perhaps the city’s most iconic overnight address, Hotel Adlon Kempinski is a local legend, having hosted legions of celebrities, socialites, and dignitaries since its christening at the start of the 20th century (it even inspired Philip Kerr’s Bernie Gunther series). Planted alongside the Brandenburg Gate, the five-star landmark is anchored in timeless grandeur; rooms are large and opulent, draped in tassels, cherry wood, and fine silk. Be sure to make a reservation at the Michelin-starred Lorenz Adlon Esszimmer, where delicate bites of duck liver with truffle, Norway lobster, and juicy saddle of lamb are served atop thick white linens. At the full-service spa, a trio of state-of-the-art spa suites are equipped with private Jacuzzis and steam showers. kempinski.com
IN A RUTZ
With three Michelin stars and a Michelin green star in tow, Rutz specializes in classic German cuisine – not the brats and brews associated with Oktoberfest, but royal servings of rabbit tartare, Bavarian Wagyu, and dry-aged carp. Chef Marco Müller’s tasting menu is built like a narrative, whisking diners away on a journey through time, soil, and flavors. The restaurant is spread across two levels, with dining rooms on both floors, plus an intimate outdoor terrace when the weather is pleasant. Braised cucumber is served with spring water trout, beetroot is tinged with horseradish and sumac, and North Sea squid shines alongside pork chin and wild quince. The wine pairings are equally eclectic, painstakingly curated to bring out the subtle notes and aromas. rutz-restaurant.de
CLOUD SUBLIME
Located in a sleek, futuristic dome, Liquidrom is a chic urban spa that epitomizes Berlin cool, offering ancient wellness rituals with a nightlife floater. It’s best known for its thermal saltwater pool, where visitors can float effortlessly while listening to soothing underwater music ranging from ambient soundscapes to live DJ sets. The dimly lit, minimalist design enhances the atmosphere of tranquility, making it an ideal escape from the city’s hustle. In addition to the floating experience, Liquidrom offers saunas, steam baths, and massage treatments, providing a holistic approach to relaxation and rejuvenation. Whether seeking a meditative moment or a unique way to unwind, Liquidrom offers a one-of-a-kind spa experience in the heart of Berlin. liquidrom-berlin.de