Admiralspalast is all gold and red velvet, and puts on correspondingly glitzy shows. If you’re yearning for some Berlin-style cabaret spectacle, look to Max Raabe and his Palastorchester, who put on a proper show in tuxedo and tails like in the good old days, belting out evergreens from the 1920s and 1930s that never go out of style.

This Institute for Contemporary Art, housed in a former East German margarine factory, was one of the first to reclaim space in the derelict area of Mitte (not far from the Minilofts) after the Wall came down in 1990, and is now the cornerstone of the brisk contemporary art scene around Auguststrasse.

After a walk on the canal or a bout of shopping at the Turkish Market, dine in comfort at cozy Cafe Jacques, a bistro with great wine and delicious French-Mediterranean classics such as couscous, fresh pasta and meats, as well as or original creations like duck in pistachio sauce or turbot in wild-leek sauce.

After sampling the wares of the Turkish Market, warm up with a drink at Ankerklause, a quirky, hip nautical-themed bar perched on the bridge over the canal.

For a taste of vibrant Turkish Berlin, head down to Kreuzberg and Neukölln, diverse neighborhoods beloved by artists. The Turkish market on the banks of a canal is a whirlwind of colors, smells and impressions.

While Clärchens Ballhaus is probably one of the most enjoyable nights out in Berlin - with all types swinging or tangoing the evenings away under spangles of glitter – if you’re in the mood for a more relaxed evening, head upstairs in the gloriously decrepit Spiegelsaal (Mirror Salon).