Globalista

Germany has never been high on the list of lovely, sophisticated miss-it miss-out weekend destinations. But don't be tempted to bypass modern Berlin in preference for the more obvious delights of old timers like Paris and Florence. Berlin is a city full of history and as this year is the 20th anniversary since east and west were reunited, there’s really no better time to go. Here, in the apex of modern design, you'll find boutique hotels, designer shopping, amazing contemporary art and a heaving bar scene – and we’ve got it all covered in our invaluable guide. We know the speciality wine restaurant that serves 60 wines by the glass under a disused railway; we know where you can drink and feast under original Damian Hirsts and we know where to find the hottest new local artists. A city buzzing with fresh excitement, Berlin is cleverly balancing its turbulent past with a new gloss, preserving the old while facing the future as an incredible architectural showcase. With our expert advice, you can enjoy a grown-up, glamorous weekend of spectacular sounds with the Berlin Philharmonic orchestra, buzzing galleries and gourmet restaurants. The past is another country.

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Rocco Forte has landed in Berlin. The former head office of the Dresdner Bank has been transformed into an elegant contemporary retreat, confusingly named Hotel de Rome. Stay in one of the mammoth suites with terraces overlooking Bebelplatz. The look is strong and masculine and there are grenade smithereens in one wall which date back to World War II. Staff are bright and informed, and there's a basement pool and spa. Q!Hotel, is the sleek option. The bar, for hotel guests and private members only, is a great spot to settle back with a mojito before heading back to the Graft-designed bedrooms. For something altogether more old-school, check into the unapologetically luxurious Regent Hotel, a five-star property just across from the 18th-century cathedrals of Gendarmenmarkt; there is no expense spared on the opulent decor or on the service. A little less up to date but still the city's classic palace hotel is the Hotel Adlon Kempinski.

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 Globalista's Pick of the Press

29 August 2009 - The Financial Times - Berlin's Coming of Age
15 July 2009 - Daily Candy - Deutsche Marks the Spot
14 June 2009 - The New York Times - Berlin’s Hidden Restaurants
29 May 2009 - The Telegraph - Brave New Berlin
26 April 2009 - The New York Times - Berlin celebrates 20 years without the wall
29 March 2009 - The New York Times - Authors find their voice

See the full archive of travel press articles for Berlin.