imj0257

At the end of June I will be meeting a couple friends in Prague where we will be for a week. Prior to that I am looking to spend a week elsewhere in Europe. I am highly considering several places, one of which is Berlin. I would either fly into London and stay there for 2 or 3 days and then 4-5 days in Berlin or just stay a week in Berlin.

I'm a single man in my late 20's traveling solo. To be honest, I'm not big on art museums (especially the older kind like Baroque, Renaissance, etc) but might like modern art or other types of museums. I do love sports do like to take in the local food, culture, and architecture and anything else local. I'm not huge on nightclubs and staying up late but I certainly would have to try it a couple times. And beer, which should be no problem in Germany.

Also it would be much easier for me getting to Prague since it is a 3-4 hour train ride.

Based on my brief description, do you think Berlin would be a good place for me to travel to for 4 - 7 days? If so, where should I go, what should I do, where should I stay? I don't mind spending a little money to make my trip enjoyable but of course would like to not spend a fortune because I don't have that much.

Thanks for you help!

Woyzeck

Based on your description, I think you will enjoy yourself in Berlin and find plenty to do for a few days. The city is a real metropolis. It is very much a modern city with layers of history and culture to explore. Certainly, the city has limitless options in terms of nightlife. In June, the sun will not set until later in the evening, meaning you can spend plenty of time wandering around or people watching from an outdoor cafe. The city has some great beer gardens which are a pleasant place to hang out in good weather. There are plenty of interesting sights and activities. The sprawling city has loads of green space and waterways as well, so there is a lot to explore beyond the city life. If you end up staying for a week, there are day trips within reach which may also interest you (Potsdam, for instance). It's an artsy city, so while you may find Baroque/Renaissance art, you will have no problem finding more progressive and contemporary exhibits.

As a solo traveler, you might consider staying in a hostel-type situation. Private rooms are often available if dorm-style doesn't appeal to you, but you will have the chance to meet other young travelers to hang out with if you feel like company.

If you give a little more feedback about what you like to do or what it is about Berlin that might interest you, I'm sure people will be able to make more specific recommendations regarding activities, food, sights, and lodging...

Ingo

You'll enjoy your time in Berlin. Just in case you'd skip London (which you might already have been to) you could squeeze in 2-3 days in Dresden or the National Park Saxon Switzerland - it's right between Berlin and Prague, direct Eurocity trains stop in Dresden and the National Park (Bad Schandau). Just an idea.

Michael

Try to find this book:

Peter Fritzsche and Karen Hewitt, Berlinwalks, 1994

It's still relevant in spite of its age and is very good on the social history of Berlin and its neighborhoods.

Aramis

Jahvold!

Aramis

I mean Jawohl!

Sometimes an old Hogan's Heroes line as I remembered it back then ( pre-German language exposure) in my youth sneaks into my vocabulary before I can beat it back.

Sheesh.....

Woyzeck

I would second Ingo's suggestion of considering Dresden as a way of breaking up the train ride between Berlin and Prague, if you have the time. Dresden is a very cool city and there is lots in the area. Sächsische Schweiz could be a fun place if you like to hike or climb. The train ride between Berlin and Prague can be very scenic.

Ingo

The OP decided on staying a week in Berlin. He is ungrateful enough not to come back to Fodor's but keeps posting on TA.

imj0257

@Ingo, lol what the heck I just asked the question yesterday, no worries I'm thanking everyone on the several sites I am asking info on, TA being another one.

Thank all of you for your input. I did indeed decide on Berlin for a week.

I am looking into hostels and tours etc.

I was also thinking of taking a day trip or so to Potsdam or maybe Dresden.

jomagpie

Try hostelbookers.com, they're cheaper by a little than Hostelworld.

(and too bad Budapest didn't win you over, lol. It's such a great place, but I'm sure Berlin is too!)

imj0257

Maybe Budapest in a few years... ya never know.

Thanks for hostel info