Just to be clear, I love Paris. Everyone should visit Paris at some point in their lives. This article is more of an argument as to why Berlin is also awesome. Berlin doesn’t seem to be at the top of most American’s lists with Paris, Rome, and London, but I think it should be! Here’s why…
Romance
When you think of romantic cities, Paris will most likely be at the top of your list. The reality is that it’s a huge city that’s a bit stressful. It’s beautifully lit at night, with scenic romantic spots if you can push your way through other tourists. In Berlin, I dare you to take an evening walk along the Spree River by Museum Island or stop for a drink in Gendarmenmarkt and not fall in love.
Parks
Paris has quite the reputation for it’s hundreds of public parks and gardens, but did you know that Berlin has thousands? Plus, Germany knows how to do public parks better than just about anyone. The most popular is the Tiergarten, which is easy to visit because it’s surrounded by popular tourist sites.
Museums
While Paris does have amazing museums, including the Louvre, Orsay, Orangerie, Rodin, Pompidou, etc., don’t discount the many museums in Berlin! Not only are they filled with important works, but they also are very convenient. Most are situated right by each other on Museum Island. Or if you don’t even want to step inside a museum, the East Side Gallery is a section of the wall covered in amazing street art.
History
Paris has lots of history intertwined in it’s beautiful streets with so many writers and artists making it their home. Berlin on the other hand, has layers upon layers of history with people who actually lived through it. It is amazing to be in the reunified Berlin and to see the scars of world wars and cold wars. Berlin was ground zero for so much important recent history that makes it a fascinating city to just experience. You do get the feeling that this was the center of a giant 40 year chess game between East and West. If you are a 20th Century history buff, this is your city.
Food
This might be a tough argument to make, as Paris is impossible to beat on food. But I do have to make an argument for the variety of awesome food you can get in Berlin. From cheap options on the street, like Turkish falafels, to vegan cafes with so much flavor you could die, to trendy hipster restaurants next door to an art opening, you can get really amazing food, and for much less money than in Paris.
Transportation
While both cities are easy to get around in, if you prefer to travel by car or bike, Berlin wins. There is very little traffic, and the flat bike lanes make riding a perfect option.
Cost
Paris is ridiculously expensive, especially the hotels. Berlin is so much more affordable. You can get a fantastic hotel in a fancy location in Berlin for half of the price as the equivalent in Paris. If you’re looking to travel on a budget, you’ll find this much easier in Berlin.
Energy
Berlin is young and exciting. Paris is for types like Anderson Cooper (actually saw him there), almost requiring a suit jacket just to walk the streets. Berlin is filled with young solopreneurs working on their laptops in bars with free wifi, groups of people chasing free beer using apps on their phones, and karaoke enthusiasts showing their skills in a public park. Do what you want with no judgement in this young, quirky city!
So next time you dream of visiting Europe, don’t forget about beautiful, hip, and historic Berlin. It belongs up there with the big boys of European cities.
If you'll be in Berlin, why not pop up to Hamburg for a day or two?
