Darling escapes: our days in Berlin

It must be the only city in Europe that we visited for so many times and that we saw in it's ever-changing process since 2007.

Multicultural, boosting with street art and events, home to many great artists in Europe, a city of contrasts, dynamic and yet quiet, with a certain provincial air (despite being the capital of Germany, you just don't feel the same vibes that Munich or Frankfurt have), which is why it’s a great destination for a city break with kids. Berlin has everything that we like in a city and it's must see for all coffee afficionados.

The best way to experience the city is by staying in a homey neighborhood hotel, like Schoenhouse Apartments. Like most buildings in Berlin, this one also has a hidden garden which is a great plus for family travel. Located in Mitte disctrict, these apartments and studios have a very cozy nordic design and a great price considering the location and amenities.

You just have to cross the street in the morning for the best coffee in Berlin (my personal favorite) at The Barn Roastery. This is the place to start your day, with a great coffee and delicious sandwich (like the one with beetroot and goat cheese).

Then simply go for a walk and explore the small streets and hidden courtyards of Mitte. Small shops with local brands and lots of bakeries where you can stop for a warm drink and a pretzel in case the weather is not friendly (we experienced some really cold days here, so I would suggest to visit during summer). There are also plenty of parks, playgrounds or just open spaces where a toddler can explore freely.

You can stop for lunch in one of the coziest places in town. Hidden in an office building, House of small wonder serves Asian inspired treats. All our favorite places in Berlin are usually minimalistic, so this one really makes a difference. Everything feels so intimate and quiet, like a garden-like restaurant in a small town in Asia. The restaurant has big stairs at the entrance, which can be a big plus or a huge disadvantage, depending on how much your kid likes climbing (we know for sure that at some point in our lives we were avoiding any place that had stairs!!!).

If you happen to visit the city on a Tuesday or a Friday then you must go to the Turkish Market at Maybachifer. It's a great way to experience the multicultural Berlin. There are many farmer's markets in the city but this one, situated along the canal, has a really thrilling atmosphere and amazing produces, to try there or to buy for a later dinner at home.

Berlin is a huge city and its food scene features some amazing places, from street food markets to non-conventional spots and simple neighborhood restaurant, not so famous but with gorgeous food. There are many areas of the city that we didn’t visit, but we can definitely say that you will find a nice place to eat pretty much anywhere in the city, even though it’s not a touristy area.

Markthalle Neun is the place where you can try artisanal pasta and regional german goods, thai food and japanese delicacies. This market built in 1891 is the place where local vendors share their fresh produces in a lively atmosphere. And talking about street food, you must try the currywurst at Curry36, just opposite the Mehringdamm metro station. They say this is the best place in town for this traditional food of Berlin and you will immediately recognize the place by the legendarily long queue. You will see the same at Mustafa Gemusekebap nearby and this is also a must try. Our favorite is the veggie kebap, with grilled vegetables, fresh cheese and delicious toasted bread (definitely more child appropriate than the currywurst).

Whether you're travelling with kids or not, you must visit the Berlin Zoo. It's an amazing experience at any age, with so many species that you can watch closely. We were lucky enough to visit just after the two new panda guests had arrived (Berlin is well known for its panda fever) and watching them cuddle and eat bamboo was such an exciting experience (they are cute as you see them in the YouTube videos).

There are of course a lot of gorgeous places in Berlin and a lot of travel guides that you can read. But I like to receive recommendations from locals and because this city is the home to so many creative folks and you can find a lot of inspiring itineraries on websites like: stillinberlin.de or whatshouldieatforbreakfasttoday.com. Marta Greber is the amazing woman behind the What should I eat for breakfast today blog and she shares some wonderful travel, eat & play experiences. Definitely one of my favorite websites and a warm recommendation for your weekend readings.