THE FACTS ABOUT BERLIN

Germany Berlin

WHY GO This formerly divided city has pulled together neatly over the last ten years, making it one of the most fascinating destinations in the world. History is prevalent everywhere, and going on discovery tours of the town is a must. Evenings are best spent discovering that other thing that has put Berlin so firmly on the map over the last few centuries - the nightlife. WHERE TO STAY Lux-11, located on the fringes of Mitte, which used to be Berlin's cultural centre, is excitingly cool and still incredibly friendly. The 72 apartments have different sizes, but all have kitchenettes. Rosa-Luxemburg-Strasse 9-13, Berlin (00 49 30 93 628 000; www.lux-eleven.com). WHERE TO EAT While there's plenty of world cuisine in Berlin, few places offers such delicious fish and seafood as Fischers Fritz. The luxurious food - think sauté of rabbit, snails and gambas with artichokes and tarragon jus - is served in sumptuous historic surroundings of the Regent Berlin hotel. Regensburger Strasse 5, 10777 Berlin (00 49 30 2181 883). WHAT TO DO See a cabaret: the Chamäleon Varieté Theatre offers performances every evening, in very much the same style as what Christopher Isherwood must have encountered during the 1930s. Rosenthaler Strasse 40/41, 10178 Berlin (00 49 30 4000 5930; www.chamaeleonberlin.de). FIND OUT ALL ABOUT BERLIN IN CNTRAVELLER.COM'S CITY GUIDE