For those with an interest in modern history, Berlin is a time capsule of stories. A walking tour of the Berlin’s best-known landmarks and historic sites highlight the place’s significant role in World War II. And, the Berlin Wall demonstrates the way in which a large portion of the city and its residents were segmented overnight, from 1961 until 1989. Over the Spree River, the UNESCO heritage-listed Museum Island houses much of the city’s oldest architecture and artefacts (named so because there are five museums on it).

With its high concentration of private art galleries, photography exhibitions, studio spaces and arts-oriented stores, Berlin is a go-to for creative inspiration. The city is home to many emerging and established artists, whose artworks can be viewed all over town. Satisfy an interest in both art and history by taking a walk along the remaining segments of the Berlin Wall. The sections that remain following its demise now present a vertical canvas for a series of political paintings. For writerly types, the magazine and book stores in Berlin are among the world’s best – we like soda. Berlin for a healthy dose of design inspiration.

In recent years, Berlin has become a centrepoint for food-oriented travellers. And in true noir style, many of its best restaurants and brunch locales take a local’s knowledge to find. Take, for instance, Cookies Cream – a fine-dining vegetarian restaurant concealed in an unassuming warehouse in the city’s business district. Judging its cold exterior, diners would have little idea of the warmth and hospitality revealed within. Brunch culture is blooming in this late-to-rise city, which now boasts some of the best coffee shops and brunch locales – including Roamers and the Japanese-inspired House of Small Wonder – you just have to know where to look.