At visitBerlin, we write about Berlin - not just to inform, but to share the city's incredible diversity. We work for Berlin, and for us, it's more than just a job; it's a passion. We all love this city, each in our own way. Some of us were born here and couldn't imagine living anywhere else, while others came to study, fell in love, or found work—and never left. Because Berlin is simply one of a kind.
Experiencing democracy up close
Josefine: There’s nowhere quite like Berlin to experience democracy firsthand. Where else can you casually spot MPs having lunch? I love walking through the government district, surrounded by vast glass facades that symbolize transparency and openness. And if you look closely, you'll discover some fascinating works of art.
Take Dani Karavan’s Grundgesetz 49 in front of Jakob Kaiser House, or the striking installation by American artist Jenny Holzer in the north entrance hall of the Reichstag. The digital neon signs on the stele display speeches from members of the Reichstag and Bundestag, and at night, they almost seem to hold up the building’s roof—a powerful symbol that our democracy is built on the fundamental right to freedom of expression. That’s what Berlin stands for, and that’s why I love this city.
Tip: Want to make your voice heard? On Saturday, 15 February, you can take a stand for freedom, diversity, and tolerance at the Winter-CSD under the motto "Vote for Love."
Experience Democracy in Berlin
The incredible diversity
Catrin: Berlin is always coming up with new surprises and the different neighbourhoods offer something new every day in terms of art, culture, sport and special things that often make it hard to decide. The big events are just as exciting as the smaller ones: Whether it's Germany's largest Photography Festival in March, the Half Marathon in April or the Carnival of Cultures in June, ISTAF in September and Festival of Lights in October or creative and inspiring theatre plays in the Grips Theatre, digital works of art with light installations in the Stadtbad Lichtenberg and the countless exhibitions in the galleries of this city. The variety is great. And to escape the hustle and bustle of the city and enjoy idyllic peace and quiet, there is the Müggelsee, the Wannsee, the Tiergarten and so much greenery in and around Berlin. You simply have to love this city.
More about Berlin's neighbourhoods
Cycling on a former airfield
Christian: I love Berlin because it's the only city in the world where I can race down the runway of a former airport on my bike - right in the heart of a bustling metropolis. Nowhere else do you get this unique mix of freedom and space. Just a stone's throw from the Brandenburg Gate and the Reichstag, Tempelhof Field is where Berlin’s rich history meets its unmistakable urban lifestyle. A place like no other!
Metropolis Berlin
Kristin: I moved to Berlin to study - three weeks before the Wall came down. Since then, I have witnessed the many changes in the city and the magical moments such as the first New Year's Eve together at the Brandenburg Gate, the wrapping of the Reichstag and the Love Parade on Kurfürstendamm. And of course the Berlinale, my absolute highlight every year. Not only do I see films from all over the world there, but I've also made friends for life.
In Berlin, I can go to the cinema all year round and see films that aren't shown anywhere else. In the concert halls, Kirill Petrenko or Joana Mallwitz stand at the podium and give me hours of happiness. During my lunch break, I go to the Gemäldegalerie and visit Vermeer's "Young Lady with a Pearl Necklace"...
And no other city has this unique blue colour in the early evening sky ...
The many green sides of the capital
Carolin: I love the people in Berlin because most of them are open, tolerant and social. I love the many good restaurants, cafés and bakeries where you can enjoy home-made delicacies. And I love the capital's green spaces. There I can let my soul dangle while listening to the birdsong.
The incredible diversity of the city
Julia: I simply love the diversity of this city. I'm particularly happy when I can feast my way back through the city's many exceptional restaurants: Brasserie November, Kanal61, Niko Izakaya, Aerde, Jaja, Italo Bistro - there are so many good ones that I can't even list them all here. At the weekend, I like to meet up with friends for brunch. My current favourites are JOMO, Bonvivant and Venue. And in summer, I'm drawn to the nature of the city: going hiking, walking along the numerous lakes, swimming in summer or simply sitting by the Spree with a good book.
Surprises on every street corner
Katharina: I’ve lived in Berlin for over 15 years, yet there’s still so much I haven’t explored. And that’s exactly why I love this city—you never truly finish getting to know it.
Berlin has surprises around every corner. Whether it’s a hidden mural on a prefab building in Marzahn or an unexpected gem tucked away in a quiet side street, the city never stops revealing itself. More than anything, Berlin gives me a sense of freedom. Here, everyone can be who they want to be. I’ve rarely experienced a city with such diversity in culture and fashion—people wear whatever they like, with little concern for fleeting trends. It’s as if Berlin embraces you just as you are.
And no matter how many times I wander through the city, I always stumble upon something new—be it a quirky boutique, a cozy café, or a piece of street art that makes me stop and smile. That’s what makes Berlin so endlessly fascinating.
And suddenly the past comes alive
Dagmar: I love Berlin - not just because I can't get enough of the many highlights of art history, for example on Museum Island. Berlin is the place where world history has always happened. With all its ruptures and turbulent times. You stand in an authentic place...and suddenly the past comes alive.
In Berlin there's a stage for everyone
Stefanie: I love Berlin because of the wide sidewalks in so many of the city's streets. It's fun to stroll through Berlin's neighbourhoods, called Kieze. And I love Berlin's fantastic cultural offerings. Some days, the sheer variety leaves me spoilt for choice—but whether it’s an exhibition, concert, or theater performance, I know I’ll always find something that enriches my life. I especially love discovering hidden gems - intimate comedy stages, poetry readings in dreamy courtyards, or small but inspiring exhibition spaces. The city’s creative energy is simply contagious—it lifts you up and makes you feel alive!
Berlin has never let me go
Lara: I've been living in Berlin for about six years now. Originally I came here to study, fully expecting to move to another city afterwards. But Berlin never let me go—and now, I can't imagine a better place to live. Here, I have everything my heart desires. When I crave a break by the water, Müggelsee and Wannsee each have their own unique charm. When it comes to food, the city never disappoints—whatever I’m in the mood for, there’s always a restaurant or café that hits the spot. For relaxation, I retreat to Berlin’s many spas, libraries, and quiet hideaways, perfect for switching off. And when I need excitement, the city delivers—whether outdoors or indoors, in nature or through urban adventures.
For me, Berlin is the perfect balance of vibrant city life and green escapes. It’s this incredible diversity that makes the city so special—and why I stayed.
