As travel obsessives, here at dealchecker we love to explore all parts of the cities we visit, but we find special wonderment in finding those little places that are ‘off the beaten track’ in some small way. The typically ‘guidebook’ sights are absolutely still worth visiting – they are ‘must-see’s’ for a reason, after all – but for the most authentic experience of your city of choice, we’ve got one tip for you: Ask. The. Locals. We’ll be doing a monthly spotlight on a major city in the world and showing you how to get Off The Beaten Track…
Theatre
Berlin is a city known for its fringe element, so finding interesting theatre off the beaten track isn’t too much of a trial! The HAU and the Sophiensaele are both known for its avant-garde blurring of artistic boundaries; with theatre, dance, literature and visual arts all mixing, these two cultural powerhouses continue to present thought-provoking art. Make sure you check out the annual spring festival showcasing Polish theatre, as well as the various up and coming groups from around the world that are shown.
Image by saschapohflepp
Culture
Now whilst its definitely worth checking out the Jewish Memorial, the Reichstag and the Berlin Wall, there are other, more hidden spots that are definitely worth a look. The Kulturforum looks like a 1980’s university campus from the outside, but inside is chock-full of masterpieces in different galleries, and even some Berliners don’t realise that its there! Check it out here. The Chapel Of Reconciliation is also worth a look; located on the site of a former church, demolished in 1985 to clear the area between the walls separating East and West Berlin, the chapel is serene, simple and elegant, and is perfect for a few moments of reflection after the day of playing tourist.
Image by joshua l
Something different
The Liquidrom is a thermal bath underneath the Tempodrom concert hall, which has a Finnish sauna, Roman steam bath and a saltwater pool in which visitors can while away their woes. Continuing in the same vein, the Badeschiff is a fun swimming pool that floats in the River Spree – and in winter it’s turned into a covered sauna! Shopaholics will be pleased to find a quirky flea market at the Arena across the River, which is open seven days but is best at weekends.
Image by mini joan
Eating
For that traditional German experience, go for some schnitzel in Bötzow Privat, a rowdy working man’s pub. The Schwarzwaldstuben across the road is also good – try the typically German dish Spätzle and a Tannenzäpfle beer! If you like a bit of hipster with your hamburger, the painfully underground Cookies & Cream serves up delicious three course meals for £25 accompanied by thumping club vibes, ensuring its always jam-packed with the young and the beautiful.
Image by bloomsburys
Header image by Matthias Rhomberg
