About Berlin, Germany | What is on, Berlin hotels
This short break guide about Berlin, Germany will help you to make the most of your trip. Lists of what’s on in Berlin and recommended hotels will save you time when planning your city break.
About Berlin, Germany
On your next European vacation, you may just want to check out the third most visited destination in the continent – Berlin, Germany. This once divided city is now a hub of the liberal lifestyle. The city is greatly service oriented which attributes to its many business centers. Conversely, this metro is also filled with pleasurable attractions, an avant-garde art scene, a lively nightlife and is an enthusiastic center for culture, media and politics. Its historic heritage (from its Prussian days to the Third Reich to the fall of the wall to today’s open minded ideals) also makes it a sought out tourist attraction and a popular setting for film production. Berlin also brings in many youngsters because of its promising low cost of living, who will ultimately play a part in its ever expanding, energetic social scene. http://www.berlin.de/english/
What is on in Berlin in 2008
Our mini-guide to what’s on in Berlin lists the top events in 2008 in a handy Berlin Calendar format. If you take your short break in Berlin, Germany when these events are taking place, add them to your list of things to do in Berlin.
January
Berlin Six Day Race
Cyclists, come one come all! Each January nearly 70,000 spectators converge on the Velodrom to watch cyclists pedal through numerous races during the Berlin Six Day Race series. The pedal power is so serious that the events run into the wee hours of the am, 3:00am to be exact! And for the little cyclists among us; Sunday is Family Day, complete with many kid-tastic events. Costs run from 5-52EUR and the races are on from Thursday – Saturday starting at 6:00pm and pedaling on through until 3:00am. Family Day offers more kid friendly hours from 10:00am – 6:30pm. http://www.sechstagerennen-berlin.de/ http://www.gegenbauer-ticketservice.de/
February
Going Underground
Playing into the innovative atmosphere of the city, Berlin’s Going Underground festival is a unique way to present short films to public viewers, whether they want them or not! Each February the underground rail system features fourteen short films on their novel TV screens for an entire week, making this fest easy to catch while on the go, literally! Audiences are then asked to vote for their favorite short film and the winning artist receives 3,000EUR and the prestige that goes along with it. The films play on the trains 24 hours a day and the cost for a one way ticket is between 2.10 – 2.70EUR. http://www.berliner-fenster.de/, http://www.interfilm.de/, http://www.goingunderground.de/
March
Spandau Spring Festival
The delightful Berlin suburb of Brauhaus Spandau plays host to a charming spring fest each year, entitled the Spandau Spring Festival. The fest is a combination of the best of both worlds for both adults and kiddies alike. Towering roller coasters, spook houses and speedy go-karts abound as do the rounds of German beer. To add to the festivals magic, a fireworks display goes off in the evenings for all to ogle. But the best part might just be the free entrance! The Spandau fest runs from February 2 – March 16, 2008. http://www.wollenschlaeger-berlin.de/
April
Verzaubert Queer Film Festival
Since the fall of the Berlin wall, the city has become increasingly open minded. The Verzaubert Queer Film Fest falls right into this category. It seeks to bring the gay and lesbian message to the people by making four city stops each year in April with fantastic cinema. The films explore issues of love and gender identity among other subjects that often show themselves in the gay and lesbian community. The show stops in Berlin from April 16 – 23. http://www.verzaubertfilmfest.com/
May
International Museums Day
All over the great country of Germany, museums take part in International Museums Day with special exhibitions that show the importance of museums to society and history itself. Nearly 6,000 museums participate in this stimulating event and a overwhelming amount of displays, shows, exhibits and lectures speak to the public and celebrate art and culture the world over.
June
Berlin Christopher Street DayNearly half a million people flood Berlin for Christopher Street Day, an event that signifies the higher tolerance and acceptance among the general public. A rally kicks off at 9:30am while a parade marches onward from Kufurstendamm to the Strasse des Juni. From there Siegesaule features bands and beer for a party that lasts from the afternoon well into the following morn. http://www.csd-berlin.de/
July
Berlin Festival
The Berlin Festival is the end all be all of German music festivals. While the main stage features rock and roll legends, the side stages come alive with the exciting play of European newcomers. Heck, you may even just catch the next generation Rolling Stones here! And for those who love to shake, you can slip into your dancing shoes and listen to the DJ spin tunes under the dance tent. Tickets range in price from 40 – 68EUR. http://www.berlinfestival.de/2007/
August
Hemp Parade
Dedicated to all things Hemp, the Berlin Hemp Parade seeks to pay homage to its open-armed citizens with cannabis education. The organizers don’t seek a pro-drug rally but rather want the parade to signal superior liberty by rooting for cannabis’ legalization. There are also stands filled to the brim with hemp products. The surprising variety of these products – with everything from shoes to ice cream – will leave you astounded enough that you might actually vote with the Hemp Parade’s majority in favor of cannabis! And if not, well there is a speaker’s corner where anyone is able to speak their mind, whether for or against it. http://www.hanfparade.de/
September
The Great Chariot Race
Ancient Rome comes to Berlin during this spirited festival. The Great Chariot Race features many fascinating history lessons in a very hands on way with nearly 200 gladiators and a chariot parade! This child friendly atmosphere also has pony rides, spear throwing for the public, chariot displays and music to keep it festive. The race itself has a presentation that is chock full of chariots, over one hundred horses and nearly double that in gladiators. Talk about stepping back in time! The fest is held each September and costs 9 – 16EUR to get in; children 12 and under are free. Hours run from 12:00pm – 6:00pm, plenty of time to soak up antiquity! http://www.luxevents.de/wagenrennen.com/
October
German Unity Day
Each October, the city of Berlin acknowledges the fateful day in 1989 when the wall separating East and West Germany came down. In the morning, the event starts with a fantastic display of art and culture at the Bradenburg Gate. Afterwards, the Reichstag holds a large street party where musicians and other live acts, like cabaret stars, perform for a massive audience into the evening hours. Unity Day also looks to celebrate all of the blessings and liberal pursuits that Berlin has been able to see since the wall came crumbling down. http://www.germany.info/
November
Berlin Fairy Tale Festival
Nearly 70,000 participants come out to be enchanted by the Berlin Fairy Tale Festival. The fest is a chance for children as well as adults to immerse themselves in the ancient German tradition of folklore. Many artists and authors come out to lend a hand in the telling of myths and mystic tales. The Fairy Tale fest is held in venues all around the city and the costs and hours vary to the location. http://www.maerchenland-ev.de/
December
Red Ribbons for Berlin
The Rote Schleifen fur Berlin, translated to Red Ribbons for Berlin, knows a thing or two about funding raising. On December 1, volunteers roam the city, handing out ribbons and relishing donations, vying to keep their spot as the top World Aids Day fundraiser in all of Europe. Other events include candlelighting and vigils for those that have fallen victim to this horrific illness as well as uplifting speeches by those who have overcome. There is no better way to get into the Christmas spirit than to help others in need. http://www.welt-aids-tag.de/
Recommended Berlin Hotels
Hotel review website TripAdvisor allows travelers to thoroughly assess Berlin hotels that they have visited. The unbiased evaluations really help to find the best hotels and avoid the worst. The top 10 Berlin hotels recommended by review are:
1. Ritz-Carlton Berlin
2. Swissotel Berlin
3. Askanischer Hof
4. Mercure Hotel & Residenz Berlin
5. Moevenpick Hotel Berlin
6. Grand Hyatt Berlin
7. Marriot Hotel Berlin
8. Radisson SAS Hotel Berlin
9. Hotel Concorde Berlin
10. Regent Hotel Berlin
About Madrid, Spain | What is on, Madrid Hotels
This short break guide about Madrid, Spain will help you to make the most of your trip. Lists of what’s on in Madrid and recommended hotels will save you time when planning your city break.
About Madrid, Spain
Madrid, Spain has been occupied since pre-historic times. Situated along the Manzanares River, the capital city of Spain has a notable standard of living, is considered the financial capital of the Iberian Peninsula and plays home to three of the world’s 100 largest Fortune 500 companies; Santander Central Hispano Group, Telefonica and Repsol YPF. This most ancient city is still thoroughly modern with its innovative architecture, including its “bent” building skyscrapers called Puerto de Europa, and infatuation with the nightlife; where most of the youth go out all night and only stop to shower and head to work the next morning. If you are looking for a spirited and festive atmosphere, a perfect blend of old world and new school, Madrid is the place to be.
What is on in Madrid in 2008
Our mini-guide to what’s on in Madrid lists the top 10 events and attractions in 2008. If you take your short break in Madrid, Spain when these events are taking place, add them to your list of things to do in Madrid.
January
Twelfth Night Children’s Parade
Madrid is known for its lively atmosphere yet it is not all adult centered. The Twelfth Night Children’s Parade sweetens things up for the kiddies. Thirty horse drawn carriages filled to the brim with chocolates and sweets wind there way through the city, starting at the El Retiro parquet onwards to the Plaza Mayer. The Reyes Magos throw candy to the grinning crowd of half a million until the end of the procession where numerous child friendly activities take place throughout the evening hours at the Plaza Mayor. The parade begins each year at approximately 5:00pm and is completely free of charge. More information about this unique Spanish celebration can be found on the Spain tourism website.
http://www.spain.info/
February
Madrid International Fashion Week
Madrid is slowly but surely becoming a fashion capitol as its increasingly popular fashion week goes to show. Each February the Parque Ferial Juan Carlos I (IFEMA) hosts, the Salon Internationl de la Moda Madrid (SIMM) which showcases an ever expanding collection of womenswear from new and seasoned designers alike. The quality and liveliness of Madrid Fashion Week is helping to make the city one of the top fashion capitols of the world. And, unlike other fashion weeks, anyone can come see models strut there stuff as Madrid’s is open to the public for a low cost of 30EUR at the door, or better yet, 15 if you register prior to the event.
http://www.simm.ifema.es/ferias/simm/default_i.html
http://www.ifema.es/default.html
March
Madrid Boat Show
It is known that most Madridians are always on the go, whether they are hitting the streets, flying sky high or taking to the water. The boat show has become a prominent display of all things boating for water and water sport aficionados. Not only do nearly 210 manufacturers showcase over 600 vessels, there are also exhibits featuring canoes, kayaks, windsurfing, electronics and water garments as well. If you plan on purchasing or taking to the water anytime soon, the boat show is the way to go. The cost is 5EUR if you pre-arrange your payment and 10EUR at the door. The boat event is held each March at the Juan Carlos Exhibition Center.
http://www.emeca.com/member/eintrag.prl?s=341g.htm
April
Madrid Marathon
On your mark, get set, go! Over one hundred thousand runners start the Madrid Marathon with a bang each year. The event has been this popular since its inception in 1978 and attracts an upwards of one million spectators each year. Onlookers line the streets providing applause, cheers and support for all of the runners as well as fun by way of food stands and entertainment among it all. And in traditional Madrid spirit, parties ensue after the marathon has been run. The race sprints off at 9:00am and costs 40EUR for residents and 55EUR for non with early registration (October 1 through December 31) and 45EUR residents, 60EUR non for late registration (January 1 through March 31). All participants are 85EUR if registered in April. The cost to watch is free. The official hotel of the race is Hotel Convencion, which is located in the center of the city – right where the race kicks off – and also features special events centered around the marathon.
http://www.sletoh.com/h18998.html
http://www.maratonmadrid.org/
May
Fiesta de San Isidro
Born in 1070, San Isidro is the patron saint of farmers and Madrid and for 10 days each May the city comes alive with festivities and parties celebrating the legendary man. During the fête Latin beats and flamenco dancers fill every street corner, a small jazz festival reigns at Colegio San Evangelista, locals spill tales of folklore at San Isidro fests past in their traditional garb of tweed, cloth caps and chulpas (skirts), restaurants provide the finest delicacies and traditional eats that they can muster and thousands flood the streets to eat, drink and be merry. Bullfighting rings also open during the San Isidro fest with daily bullfights at Las Ventas. The annual Ceramics Fair and Book Fair correlate with the festivals dates for those who want to shop til they drop. As for those truly celebrating for religious reasons, there is also a fountain that spouts holy water. Plaza Mayor, Plaza de las Vistillas, Plaza de las Comendadoras, Plaza de Felipe II, Parque del Retiro and the Centro Cultural de la Villa are the places where the most activity abounds during the merriment. Most events are free of charge.
http://www.congregacionsanisidro.org/fiesta.htm
June
MTV Day
During the month of June, Madrid holds many, many concerts, one of the favorites being MTV Day. Plaza del Toros de las Ventas brings together the best performers in pop and rock music of the day. The popular television station highlights the performances for those that cannot attend the live event. Previous performers include Melendi, El Sueno de Morfeo and Nena Daconte. Most of the performers’ names are release during the month of May to gather anticipation for this rockin’ event. The best part; you might never get the opportunity to see all of these contemporary musicians under one roof again for the incredible price of 18EUR. Tickets can be found on Venta de Entradas.
http://www.elcorteingles.es/tiendas_e/cda/Entradas/Home/0%2C5192%2CECI%2CFF.html
http://www.mtv.es/
July
Summer City Festival (Veranos de la Villa)
Starting in July and going well into August, Madrid’s Summer City Festival features many various and enticing events in the realms of music, dance, zarzuelas (musicals), theatre and bullfighting. Locals who haven’t gone off on vacation partake in the better, providing fresh drinks and delicious eats for neighbors and tourists alike and nearly all of the major Madrid venues play host to cultural events including opera, tango, flamenco, jazz, zaruelas, films and other exhibitions. Madrid is known for its hand in such types of dance, music and bullfighting so there is not a better time or place to catch all of the action live than during the Madrid Summer City Festival. Pricing and times differ with individual events.
http://www.esmadrid.com/es/portal.do?IDR=622&TR=C&IDM=25&NM=1
August
The Month of Festivals
Madrid is known for its highly entertaining festivals. In the summertime the city plays host to many that pay homage to patron saints but August is the month to watch out for, as it is the month that includes three such events; Virgen de la Paloma Festival (August 6 – 15), San Cayetano Festival (August 7) and San Lorenzo Festival (August 10). During these special times, streets are decorated to the nines, Mardilenos often dress to impress in traditional Chulapo garb while they dance to Latin beats in the streets, restaurants and neighborhoods alike combine to provide delicious food for all and all involved drink and dance until they are dizzy!
http://www.spain.info/
http://www.dq-madrid.com/dq-madrid/festivals.asp
September
Feria del Motin
Each September, just outside of Madrid in the beautiful little town of Aranjuez, a top notch reenactment of the famous Aranjuez mutiny of 1808 takes place; all-encompassing battle with 200 some members included. The reenactment takes place at the historic Palacio Real, a imitatation palace of Godoy, and along, as well as in, the Tajo river. And this is not all – there is also a feisty pirate battle, a gorgeous carriage parade and the internationally known running of the bulls during this annual September event.
http://www.spain.info/
October
The Last Month of the Bullfighting Season
Plaza de Toros de Las Ventas, located in Madrid’s Salamanca district, is one of the world’s most highly regarded bullfighting rings. The bullfighting calendar commences each year during the San Isidro festival with daily bullfights. After the festival, bullfights run through October each Sunday, with the special date of the second Sunday in October to look out for. There is also a bullfighting museum, Museo Taurino, which takes a look at the lengthy and passionate history of the sport, famous fighters and the ever evolving style of dress. The museum also holds works of art by infamous Spanish painters such as Vasquez Diaz and Roberto Domingo. The museum’s hours are 9:30 – 2:30pm on weekdays and 10:00am – 1:00pm on Sunday’s. Las Ventas also plays host to a variety of musical events including MTV Day, held each June, featuring many current Spanish rock and pop stars performing live concerts.
http://www.las-ventas.com/
November
Feriarte, Madrid Art Fair
For more than 30 some years, Feriare, has been the object of many Madridian jewelry, furniture and art lovers affections. From stunning antiques to contemporary designers, nearly 16,000 pieces are on sale to the public during the Madrid Art Fair. Styles range from Art Nouveau, Edwardian, Art Deco to Modern and Contemporary items. The price is 9EUR; the place is Parque Ferial Juan Carlos and the time is 12:00am – 9:00pm.
http://www.elcorteingles.es/tiendas_e/cda/Entradas/Home/0%2C5192%2CECI%2CFF.html
December
Madrid Christmas Wish Tree
Madrid’s beloved Retiro Park is home to the annual Christmas Wish Tree and the celebrations that surround it. Each December, the 30 meter, hollow tree is filled with balloons. The balloons are laced with wishes and resolutions for the New Year, ready to take off into the sky in a blaze of color on January 6. Elves dance around the tree, providing balloons and cheer to all who yearn to make their New Year wish come true. The Wish Tree stands in Retiro Park from December until the balloons release on January 6 at 6:00pm.
http://www.spain.info/
Recommended Madrid Hotels
Hotel review website TripAdvisor allows travelers to thoroughly assess Madrid hotels that they have visited. The unbiased evaluations really help to find the best hotels and avoid the worst. The top 10 Madrid hotels recommended by review are:
1. Hotel Room Mate Alicia
2. Hotel Preciados
3. Catalonia Las Cortes
4. Hostel Barrera
5. Room Mate Mario
6. Hotel de las Letras
7. Senator Gran Via
8. Hotel Plaza Mayor
9. Best Western Atlantico
10. Hotel Room Mate Laura
Please leave a comment below if you liked this post or if we have we missed any Madrid events or you can recommend hotels in Madrid.