Berlin

Germany is one of the leading countries of the European Union. Its attention to discipline in every area of life shows in its structures and its lifestyle. Forget all your preconceived notions when you're in Berlin, for it happens to offer a wide array of culture and the arts, a city full of stately and historical buildings together with a reputation for having a vibrant nightlife. Berlin is a layered city — make sure to peel away!

Getting Around

BVG services the city, and it includes public buses and urban/metro rails. Try their CityTour Card, valid up to three days (72 hours) and available for use on the U-Bahn and the S-Bahn, public buses, and trams. The card also saves you up to 50 percent on the city's major tourist sites.

Things to See

Berlin is known for its gorgeous landscapes — nip over to one of its forests and lakes and take a spontaneous picnic, or take a look at the breathtaking Bavarian Alps — the hills will be more than alive. There are free attractions all around the city. The Brandenburger Tor is the site of the Brandenburg Gate, designed as a peace symbol and built in 1791. Museums are a must-see in Berlin; they detail everything from European Masters in painting to ancient history.

Where to Stay

Berlin is teeming with hostels, and while some of them may not be up-to-par, you can check out Germany's Backpacker Network which offers a list of hostels in Berlin and beyond. It's a good place to start.