Berlin is a city like no other. From Cold War watchtowers and Prussian palaces to punk clubs and street art-covered sections of the Berlin Wall, this episode dives into one of Europe's most dynamic capitals. David and Tim explore how the city’s past and present intersect, offering a unique travel experience full of culture, complexity, and creativity.

In This Episode

• Berlin Then and Now: The story of a once-divided city reunited
• Cold War Landmarks: Visiting Checkpoint Charlie, the Palace of Tears, and the East Side Gallery

Iconic Sites:

• Brandenburg Gate
• The Reichstag
• Tiergarten Park
• Hidden Gems in East Berlin:
• Karl-Marx-Allee's preserved Soviet-era architecture
• Tränenpalast Museum and its powerful history
• East Side Gallery's open-air art and riverfront
• What makes Berlin feel youthful, energetic, and unlike anywhere else in Germany
• Why Tim keeps returning to the city, and how his first impression as a backpacker changed over time

Why Listen

Whether you're a Cold War history buff, a first-time visitor, or a seasoned traveler returning to Berlin, this episode offers practical insights and thoughtful reflections on what makes the city worth exploring in depth.

Next Episode: Part 2 will cover the best places to eat and stay in Berlin, plus tips on how to navigate the city like a local.

Note: Some of the above links may be affiliate links. Booking through them comes at no additional cost to you but helps support the production of this podcast.

Mentioned in this episode:

Check out the new Smart Travel Podcast.

This week's show is supported by the new Smart Travel Podcast. Travel smarter — and spend less — with help from NerdWallet. Check out Smart Travel at the Link below:

Smart Travel Podcast

Check out the new Smart Travel Podcast.

This week's show is supported by the new Smart Travel Podcast. Travel smarter — and spend less — with help from NerdWallet. Check out Smart Travel at the Link below:

Smart Travel Podcast