What's happening?

MAY is jam-packed with events in Berlin. From May 25-28, the Carnival of Cultures will take place when four days of global delights will celebrate Berlin's multicultural spirit so expect parades, concerts and more.

From May 18 til August 30, Open Air Cinema will see movies both old and new being screened al fresco. Skate Night Berlin from may 13-Sep 6 will see skaters take to the streets in their masses following four different routes that pass some of this city's most popular landmarks.

A massive festival also starting in May and running til September is Museumsinsel Festival and this years is expected to be as exciting as ever. It's a big music celebration and past performers have included Simply Red and Alicia Keys so expect it to be a high profile event!

Out and about

No visit to any European city would be complete without a bit of time spent at some historic, architecturally stunning square - and Berlin is no different. Visit Gendarmenmarkt here dating back to 1688 where there's a medley of charming edifices. Among the sights, there is the German Cathedral, French Cathedral and the Konzerthaus - a concert hall.

The Brandenburg Gate is another interesting place. It's Berlin's only remaining city gate which was once considered 'no mans' land' behind the wall. It's very symbolic of the former division of this city. It's also a pretty, ornate sandstone construction going back to 1788.

Berlin's magnificent boulevard, Unter der Linden is the centrepiece of this city. It was formerly a Royal avenue, very much evident by the grand palaces that line this stretch. You'll also find an opera house, cathedral and more here.

One for the ladies is Friedrichstrabe, a 3.5km street filled with cafes, boutiques and a vibrant social scene. There's a real buzz about this area that combines old and new build and it was once divided by the Wall!

You can still see traces of the Wall in Berlin, the former city centre boundary. Although you may not see any of the actual wall, it's still worth a visit.

Checkpoint Charlie is another point of interest and a great symbol of the Cold War, and division of east and west. There's a museum here too which will fill you in on the history of this compelling city.

A great spot for history buffs is Museum Island on the Spree River.

This place gets its name, unsurprisingly, from the amount of fabulous museums and architectural wonders located here.

It's also a UNESCO World Heritage Sight.

It began a massive restoration project in 1992 which is currently ongoing and due for completion in 2010 when all the museums here will be linked by a promenade.

The main museum here is Pergamon, housing ancient art and architecture.

Then there's Altes Museum shaped like a Greek temple and home to some awe-inspiring ancient art and sculpture from Rome and Greece.

Alte Nationalgalerie has some charming 19th century European Art while the Berliner Dom and remains of the Royal Palace as well as some pretty gardens will ensure you pass the day in the most pleasant of ways!

Where to stay

Classy or cheap and cheery, you've got it all in Berlin.

For luxury, hit the five star Hilton. It's grand to say the least with sleek leisure facilities, inclusive of pool, saunas, steam rooms and the rest as well as five different areas to eat - from cafes to fine dining.

In fact a wide range of nationalities are explored in the dining areas of the Hilton Berlin, from Italian to Polynesian and French.

Then there's the spa which will offer the best in beauty and relaxation treatments to see you have a truly self-indulgent break.

The rooms are traditionally appointed with pleasant decor and it's perfectly located - close to the Gendarmenmarkt where you'll uncover Berlin architecture at its best in this pretty square.

Rooms start from £250 per night.

A&O Hostel am Zoo is great for savings, and it too is ideallly located in the centre of former west Berlin and beside the biggest shopping area.

Prices start from around £9 per night, and for an extra £20, you can get your own private twin room complete with ensuiite.

Facilities are good; internet, bar, breakfast buffet, a roof terrace and the room are clean and fresh.

Getting there

Easyjet flies from Belfast International Airport to Berlin Schoenefeld once every Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday.

Or via Stanstead with Air Berlin