From Berlin to Munich: seven spectacular city breaks in Germany

17.01.2024 - 12:07 / theguardian.com / Ash Wednesday

For a quick trip with plenty to see, do, eat and drink, you can’t go wrong with one of Germany’s stunning cities. The country’s history and geography mean that each has its own unique character so, whether you want your holiday packed with culture and history, or are simply looking for a short new-year break, you will be spoilt for choice. From Berlin to Heidelberg, we bring you seven top destinations for your next city getaway.

To get the most out of your visit, you need somewhere relaxing and comfortable to come back to, and the Hilton hotels are set in fantastic locations with spas, pools, gourmet dining, luxurious beds, and health clubs, guaranteed to refresh. You can even start your holiday early by choosing to stay at a handy Hilton airport hotel. Read on and decide which of these seven German cities you’ll choose for your next city break.

Despite being Germany’s capital and biggest city, there’s a laid-back atmosphere to Berlin, and open-air theatres, beach bars and shopping at the Kurfürstendamm or Friedrichstraße districts are popular pastimes. This is a city of striking contrasts: beautiful, historical buildings, such as the Reichstag and Brandenburg Gate, stand next to or near modern and brutalist architecture. There are some 170 museums and galleries, many of which can be found on the internationally renowned Museum Island, but there’s also lots of green space with sprawling parks, woods and lakes to relax in.

Where to stay
Hilton Berlin is a brilliant oasis in the heart of the city. While only 1.5 miles (3km) from Checkpoint Charlie, the Brandenburg Gate and the Berlin Wall, the hotel helps guests relax with an indoor pool, spa and the Restaurant Beletage, which features a glass dome overlooking Gendarmenmarkt square. If your plan is to explore the city on foot, Hampton by Hilton Berlin City Centre Alexanderplatz will serve as the perfect base. It’s within walking distance of the TV tower, Berlin Cathedral and the train station. Alternatively, Waldorf Astoria Berlin treats its guests to contemporary luxury with all-day dining at Roca, a state-of-the-art spa and more than 200 elegant rooms, many of which have skyline views. You can even stream an exercise class on a Peloton bike in the fitness centre. Shopaholics, meanwhile, can “drop” after their “shop” at DoubleTree by Hilton Berlin Ku’damm, which overlooks Los Angeles Plaza and is a brief stroll from the luxury boutiques of Kurfürstendamm.

Cologne is known for itsparty spirit,and the world-famous Cologne carnival, which takes place between new year and Ash Wednesday (14 February 2024), is evidence of the city’s penchant for fun. You’ll see people dancing, singing and celebrating in the bars around the Alter Markt and Heumarkt squares,