Germany's premier city, Berlin, is one of the fastest growing and intriguing in Europe. This guidebook, written by experienced travel writer Damien Simonis, expertly guides you through the varied land- and cityscapes that are today's Berlin. Illustrated with more than 120 vivid, up-to-date photographs and nearly 20 detailed, full-color maps, this second edition gives you every tool you need to plan a trip to the center of the new Europe, from the historic and massive Reichstag building in the town center to the complex of museums and gardens at the former royal palace in the west at Charlottenburg. Starting with a detailed introduction to Berlin's unique history, food, land, and culture--factors that have clearly shaped the distinctive volksgeist of the German people--the book then explores each of the neighborhoods that make up the city. Among the sights: the city's grand pastoral thoroughfare in the center of town, Unter Den Linden; the Forum of Culture, home of Berlin's concert hall and several excellent museums; the Tiergarden, the large central park that constitutes some of metropolis's extensive green space; the quiet woods, rivers, and lakelands of Berlin's far west; and the many world-class museums clustered on Museum Island in the east. In addition, an "Excursions" chapter steers you to the best day trips out of the city.