MITTE. Perhaps one of Berlin's most solemn ­ and controversial ­ sites, the Holocaust Memorial occupies a wide expanse between Brandenburger Tor and Potsdamer Platz. Exactly 2711 concrete slabs form a chilling grey grid over the area known as the Field of Stelae. The stelae represent the horrible scope of the Holocaust and are arranged at varying heights, creating a subtle wave-like appearance. Designed by NY architect Peter Eisenman, the site and its visitor center opened to the public on 12 May 2005; among those in attendance that day were several Holocaust survivors. S-BAHN: Unter den Linden or Potsdamer Platz; U-BAHN: Potsdamer Platz

MITTE. Built in 1791 as a customs collection post and recalling the design of the Acropolis's Propylaea, this formidable columned structure has served as an icon of both German factionalism and solidarity. In 1961, the Wall was built and the gate sealed off. After the Wall fell in 1989, the area was reopened to the public. The neighboring plaza is marked with merchant stalls. Located on the eastern edge of Tiergarten. S-BAHN: Unter den Linden

MITTE. Located in the massive confines of a renovated train station (Hamburger Bahnhof), this museum features works by many famous artists. Most items on display come from the inherited Erich Marx Collection. Elsewhere in the museum are exhibited pieces by artists such as Amseln Kiefer, Andy Warhol and Bruce Nauman. During the evening hours, brilliant fluorescent lights illuminate the exterior of the station. Free entry on Thursdays, 2pm-6pm. S-BAHN: Lehrter Stadtbahnhof

KREUZBERG. One of Berlin's most significant museums, this facility is laid out in the shape of the Star of David, a stroke of genius by designer Daniel Libeskind. The impressive ­ and at times overwhelming ­ array of permanent exhibits offers an unparalleled glimpse at Germany's Jewish populace. The holdings, many originating from private collections, include contemporary art, sculpture and antiquarian ceremonial objects. The main permanent exhibit traces German-Jewish history from Roman times to the present day. S-BAHN: Hallesches Tor; U-BAHN: Kochstrasse

MITTE. Ludwig Mies van der Rohe designed the unique glass-and-steel structure that houses this fascinating museum. Most prominently on display are numerous works dating to the 19th and 20th centuries. German Expressionism by Kirchner and Heckel is highlighted too, alongside "classic modern" pieces by Dali, Picasso, Dix and Kokoschka. After viewing the exhibits, guests can relax and unwind in the basement café. S-BAHN and U-BAHN: Potsdamer Platz