Berlin, Germany

Berlin Wall

Address Berlin Wall, Berlin Germany Map, Tel 49 30 9026-2435 Call, Website

Although the Wall fell in 1989, several sections remain standing in Berlin (although I have the impression that they are still being surreptitiously chipped away). Older children might be interested in this glimpse of Berlin’s history. For Maps and walking tours that let you follow the wall, click here more

Berlin Zoo

Address Hardenbergplatz 8, 10787 Berlin Map, Tel +49 (0)30 25 40 10 Call, Open 365 days - hours vary Website

A huge, beautiful and well-maintained zoo near the Ku’damm shopping street. The current star of the zoo is of course Knut the polar bear. The Berlin Aquarium is next to the zoo and also worth a trip. You can buy a single ticket for both attractions. more

Museum at Checkpoint Charlie

Address Friedrichstraße 43-45, 10969 Berlin-Kreuzberg Map, Tel +49 (0) 30 25 37 25-0 Call, Hours Open Daily from 9:00 until 22:00 h, Cost Adults 12,50 EUR; Students 9,50; 10 & under 5,50 EUR, under 6 free Website

Checkpoint Charlie was one of the points at which one could officially cross from East to West. The spot is now home to a fascinating (although somewhat expensive and grubby) museum documenting the history of the Berlin Wall and detailing spectacular escapes from East Berlin. Exhibit items include cars, suitcases, parachutes and other equipment used in these flights from Communist Germany. The museum will only be interesting to older children. more

Potsdamer Platz

Address ALTE POTSDAMER STRASSE 7, 10785 BERLIN Map, Website

Potsdamer Platz existed in no-man’s land during the post-war period, up until the fall of the Berlin Wall. Since then, it has been developed into a super-modern entertainment, business and shopping center. Highlights include the Sony Center: go after dark to appreciate its spectacular roof, which changes colors every minute or so. Kids will enjoy the IMAX movie theater and the whole family will appreciate the English-language movie showings on rainy days or when everyone needs a dose of home culture. more

Swissotel Berlin

Address Augsburger Strasse 44, 10789 Berlin, Germany Map, Tel 49 30 220100 Call, Website

Though we recommend staying in the more historic East Berlin City Center, this hotel, located on Germany’s most famous shopping boulevard is a great value. Its location in the modern part of the city centre provides great metro access and there are many good restaurants nearby. Rooms are modern, spacious and clean. Special kids room packages (complete with toys, themed bedding, and breakfast are also available more

Charlottchen

Address Droysenstr. 1 10629 Berlin, Germany Map, Website

This restaurant is the place to go in the western part of the city for a meal with small children. Parents can sit and relax while their children have fun in the large play area, which is next to the tables, making it easy to keep an eye on the kids. The cleanliness of the place isn’t quite up to American standards, but it’s a Berlin institution and the food is generally tasty and reasonably priced. Staffing is through a program which integrates physically and mentally handicapped people into the work force. more

KaDeWe Department Store (and Food Hall)

Address Tauentzienstr. 21-24, 10789 Berlin, Germany Map, Tel +49 30 2121-0 Call, Hours Mon-Thu 10am-8pm; Fri 10am-9pm; Sat 9:30am-8pm Website

This elegant department store has an amazing food hall on the top floor. You'll find top quality German products as well as exotic imports. This is THE place to pick up food for a picnic or to bring back home as a gift. more