Berlin Day 1

Berlin, Germany, has always been a place I’ve dreamed of visiting. It holds a special place in my heart as the city of my birth, where I was born at the US Army Hospital in the mid-70s. Although my family left when I was barely two years old, the stories of Berlin, the Berlin Wall, Checkpoint Charlie, and Tempelhof Airport—where my dad worked—have been a constant thread throughout my life. So, when the chance came to take my wife to Germany to explore the Christmas Markets her friends had raved about, there was no question that Berlin would be the start of our journey. It was a destination I couldn’t miss.

We arrived in Berlin via a connecting flight from Munich which put is into Berlin around 6 PM local time. Having already passed through passport control in Munich, we were able to head straight to baggage claim. With no customs to navigate, we quickly made our way outside to grab a taxi. The drive to our hotel on the other side of the city took about 40 minutes. For those unfamiliar with big cities, the traffic can feel intense, and the taxi ride quickly became a thrilling, rollercoaster-like experience. By the time we stepped out of the car, I was dizzy from the ride.

We stayed at the Dorint Kurfürstendamm in the Charlottenburg-Wilmersdorf district, an area known for its historic pre-war buildings and upscale boutiques. It was after 7 PM by the time we checked in, and we were exhausted and eager for dinner. Luckily, there was an Italian restaurant connected to the hotel, so we decided to keep it simple and dine there for the night.

Like any hotel you research, the Dorint Kurfürstendamm has its share of mixed reviews, but our experience was nothing short of fantastic. I would not only recommend this hotel to anyone visiting Berlin, but I would also stay here again without a second thought. Located in a prime area, the hotel itself is beautiful, both inside and out. The staff were exceptional—always friendly, accommodating, and eager to assist with any questions we had. Our stay was truly memorable, and the service made all the difference.

On our first full day in Berlin, we woke up to rain, so we decided to keep things simple and explore the nearby Christmas Market and shopping district. The Kurfürstendamm Christmas Market was conveniently located right next to the Kaiser-Wilhelm Memorial Church, a historic site that was heavily damaged during WWII and has never been fully rebuilt. The church’s preserved ruins stand as a powerful reminder of Berlin’s history, and the market's festive atmosphere, combined with the church’s striking presence, made for a memorable start to our trip. Despite the rain, we enjoyed the cozy charm of the market and the vibrant energy of the surrounding area.

Kaiser-Wilhelm Memorial Church

The Kurfürstendamm Christmas Market may be smaller than some of Berlin's larger markets, but it more than makes up for its size with its irresistible charm. Each booth offers something distinct, whether it's handcrafted ornaments, festive decorations, or thoughtful gift ideas—no two are alike. The standout feature of the market is its collection of German-made ornaments. These beautifully crafted pieces are not only a perfect memento of the season but also a unique treasure to bring home.

During the day, the Kurfürstendamm Christmas Market is wonderfully peaceful, making it easy to browse the various booths without feeling crowded. If you need a break, there are plenty of places to sit and relax, whether inside a charming little shelter or on the steps of a nearby church.

As you wander through the market, you'll also find numerous photo opportunities, with some truly stunning sights that are perfect for capturing the magic of the season. It's a calm and picturesque setting, offering both a relaxing experience and plenty of chances to create lasting memories..

Like any great Christmas market, the Kurfürstendamm market offers a variety of food, soft drinks, water, and of course, beer. And while it may not be Oktoberfest, you're in Germany, so why not enjoy a cold beer? Contrary to the myth that Germans prefer their beer at room temperature, in winter, it’s typically served nice and cold, thanks to the chilly outdoor air.

The food at this market reflects the local flavors of Berlin, with Currywurst reigning supreme. This iconic dish features bratwurst smothered in a tangy curry ketchup, served either sliced or on a bun. It's definitely an acquired taste, but a must-try for those wanting to dive into Berlin’s culinary scene. In addition to Currywurst, there’s an array of other delicious options, from classic bratwurst to skewers of chicken or pork. And if you're a fan of food on a stick, you're in for a treat—fried potato swirls on sticks and a variety of other creative street food options abound!

Since we were right next to the Kaiser-Wilhelm Memorial Church, we decided to take some time to explore its rich history. Built in 1907, the church was a magnificent example of neo-Romanesque architecture, but in 1943, it was largely destroyed during a bombing raid. Today, the church's ruins stand as a poignant symbol of Berlin’s resilience, a testament to the city’s ability to rise from the ashes of war. Visiting the church, you can reflect on its historical significance, as well as its powerful role in the city’s post-war rebuilding and renewal. The combination of the church’s haunting remnants and the surrounding modern structures creates a striking contrast, making it a must-see landmark for anyone interested in Berlin's history.

At night, the Kurfürstendamm Christmas Market takes on a completely different atmosphere. It transforms into a lively and bustling hub, filled with the tempting aroma of freshly cooked food and the hum of excited chatter. The crowd is larger, and the energy is infectious as people enjoy the festivities a little more freely. The market lights and decorations create a magical ambiance, casting a warm, festive glow that makes everything look even more enchanting. You'll find yourself wanting to capture every moment, as the dazzling lights and charming displays are simply too beautiful to miss. It's the kind of scene that fills you with holiday spirit and makes for unforgettable memories.

As the nighttime market began to wind down, we decided to head back to the hotel, taking a moment to reflect on the day. It felt surreal to realize that we had actually made this trip a reality. The sights, sounds, and experiences were everything we had hoped for and more. With the excitement of the day still fresh in our minds, we couldn't help but feel eager for what the rest of the trip would bring. It was just the beginning, and we were already looking forward to the next adventure waiting around the corner.