The events of the past have left their mark on the cityscape - and the city is still changing today. "Berlin is always in the process of becoming", remarked historian Karl Scheffler, and this is one of the traits that makes it one of Europe's most vibrant, exciting and colourful capitals. Berlin has a vibe all of its own, and wherever you go, you can experience the pulsating life on the boulevards, in the art galleries and at the flea markets, and in the city's 300 clubs and 7,000 bars and restaurants - many of which are open around the clock.

Brandenburg Gate, the TV tower on Alexanderplatz – a 368-metre observation tower with rotating restaurant; Memorial Church on Kurfürstendamm, Gendarmenmarkt square – a beautiful and harmonious architectural synthesis with the Konzerthaus concert hall, the German Cathedral and the French Cathedral; the dome of the Reichstag – fascinating architecture and splendid views of the government quarter and the city centre; Hackesche Höfe – Berlin's famous nightlife; Potsdamer Platz – ultra-modern buildings, shops, entertainment and commercial centre.

Berlin is also a city of museums, housing cultural treasures from all over the world, including the Pergamon altar, the bust of Nefertiti ("Berlin's most beautiful woman"), and works by great masters past and present. This once-divided city brings visitors face to face with history in the 175 museums that are its custodians of history, art and knowledge. A new gallery scene, which has sprung up in the Mitte and Prenzlauer Berg districts, is causing quite a stir in the international art world.