Top Rated Attractions in Berlin

Brauhaus Lemke is one of the oldest functioning microbreweries in Berlin; for a city that really loves beer, that's saying quite a lot. The brewery was started by Oli Lemke in 1998 when he put together his own brewing system in his garage. Friends helped him set up the brewing system in an old S-Bahn unit, and in 1999, the Brahaus Lemke served its first beer. Today, visitors can sample the brewery's excellent craft beers, and even take home some bottles of their very own. The brewery also serves up delicious traditional German fare to go with its brews.

Belonging to The Dungeons franchise by Merlin Entertainment, Berlins Dungeons is a popular tourist destination located on the Spandauerstraße. You are sure to experience the thrill as you stroll through this dungeon. There are nine different stories narrated by the excellent characters that will surely keep you at the edge of the seat. This thrilling journey is provided in both English and German versions and is recommended only for people above 10 years of age.

The Hackesche Höfe has been a center for food and entertainment since its construction in 1906. Before World War II, this area was known for its Jewish theaters and cultural institutions and later became a great place for squats, underground bars and restaurants. This historic hidden courtyard complex in the Scheuenviertel consists of eight courtyards and houses cultural establishments, businesses and firms. These also include theaters, shops, bars and restaurants. Despite the courtyard being the largest of its kind in Berlin, the area is still infrequently visited, and makes for a lovely getaway from the Berlin crowds.

Haus Schwarzenberg might be a tacky building and off the tourist track but for those looking out for something different in Mitte, this 19th-century decrepit structure is home to a few artsy establishments. One such is Kino Central. Set in its courtyard, it is a haven for indie film lovers. They regularly run art house cinema in their original language with German subtitles. Featuring two halls, this intimate theater also shows classics and children's movies. Definitely an interesting set-up to watch independent flicks.

Living up to its name, the Monsterkabinett thrills, startles. scares and shocks with its metallic-robot displays. The Monsterkabinett is a large space that doubles up as an art gallery as well as a haunted house park, and is the brainchild of artist Hannes Heiner. A somber pathway decorated with nightmarish graffiti and art leads you into an enclosed warehouse where the haunting really begins. Mammoth arachnids settle beside dead-as-doornail mummies, while a six-legged dolls pops in front of youto say hello. A macabre ensemble awaits visitors here, some of them made from metal, while some of them real - well, almost - suffice it to say they are actors from the Dead Pigeon Collective dressed up as demons to stir things up. Not for the faint of heart and incredibly morbid, the characters are reflections of the artist's dream world.

Levee Club at Hackescher Markt is the home of indie music in Mitte. The club usually opens its doors every night, and there are live bands playing almost every night as well. It's also home to some of the big indie parties in town, like Karrera Club and Kill All Hipsters. You can easily find it under one of the arches at the Hackescher Markt train station. The entry fee depends on the live act, but if you come for the parties (which usually start around 11pm), it shouldn't be more than EUR6. The bar offers the usual beers, wines and long drinks. Check their website to see if your favorite indie band is in town - they might be playing at the Levee. -Fabian Saul