Berlin, where I lived for fourteen months, stole my heart. I’d recommend living there—even if just for a few months—to anyone. Berlin is a city where you’ll never get bored. Plus, finding cheap flights to Europe is easier than ever now. So if you’re looking to explore a new city, now’s the time to do it!
With that said, however, Berlin does get exhausting. Sometimes, you feel like there’s just too much to see and a lot to take in. When that happens, it’s time to take a break. Luckily, because Berlin is in the center of Europe, it’s really easy to get to any other city for a weekend trip—regardless of your mode of transportation. From Berlin you can fly to Barcelona, drive to Dresden, or even take the train to Gdansk.
Relax in Barcelona
Many who live in the German capital feel like escaping to the beach. Although Berlin has plenty of lakes and canals, they don’t really measure up to the beaches we’re spoiled with in Florida. So, when you get that pang of homesickness, treat yourself to a weekend trip to Barcelona. In 2-3 hours, you’ll land in El Prat, and in just another thirty minutes to an hour, you’ll be in the thick of this tourist Mecca. Time to enjoy the colorful city’s architecture and relax on one of its amazing beaches>, with your belly full of paella, tapas, and red wine.
Get lost in Dresden
Dresden is a smooth 3-hour drive from Berlin. If you don’t have a car, there are countless bus connections between the two cities. Dresden is full of history and impressive architecture. The city, which was firebombed during the Second World War, was reconstructed, and is now home to countless museums and sights. The Elbe River divides the city into the Altstadt (Old Town) and the Neustadt (New Town), and each has their own unique flair. While you’ll do most of your sightseeing in the Altstadt, the Neustadt has plenty of small cafes and restaurants, and a flourishing art scene.
Take a stroll through Gdansk
A seven-hour train ride away, Gdansk is a charming port city in Poland—making it perfect for a weekend trip. It’s also full of impressive museums, ranging from ones on amber to communism to the Second World War. But just walking around the romantic pedestrian streets and to the harbor is enough to take your breath away. After enjoying the sights, refuel with some pierogi, which are Polish filled dumplings. A weekend trip is all you need before heading back to the hustle and bustle of Berlin.
