Some cities just have that magical mix of edge and elegance—and Berlin is absolutely one of them. For a spring weekend full of laughter, food, and a little urban adventure, we set off with a fabulous crew: our dear friend Renate, our teenage daughter (16), and one of her friends. It’s a girls’ getaway, multigenerational-style—with plenty of soul, style, and serendipity. Our base? The effortlessly cool Sir Savigny Hotel Berlin, tucked into the chic Charlottenburg district.
There’s something about Sir Savigny that immediately wraps around you like your favorite cashmere sweater. The lobby is a total conversation-starter—a huge communal table surrounded by curated shelves filled with art books, quirky gadgets, and stylish objects (some even for sale). It’s not just a check-in desk; it’s a living space. One side leads to the garden breakfast room, where a huge mural adds a splash of Berlin street-art flair. On the other side? The restaurant, housed in what used to be a butcher’s shop—yes, complete with original cold storage rooms turned design features. Think vintage tiles meets Berlin cool. And the rooms? Genuinely stunning. Rich textures, clever details, beds that invite us to cancel all plans and order room service instead. Stylish yet inviting—we feel at home right away.
Our Room Sir Deluxe these days
We’re also just a short stroll from Charlottenburg Palace, one of Berlin’s most elegant landmarks. The palace gardens are perfect for a morning walk or quiet break between activities—grand alleys, fountains, and lakes make it a peaceful little escape right in the city.
One of our favorite parts of the stay is renting bikes directly from the hotel. Not just any bikes—good-quality, easy-to-ride city bikes with sturdy locks (this is Berlin, after all). With the sun peeking out, we pedal off to explore, tracing a route that zigzags through Berlin’s history, green spaces, and funky neighborhoods.
Our cycling highlight? A ride to Checkpoint Charlie, the most famous border crossing during the Cold War between East and West Berlin. This is where Allied forces, diplomats, and foreign visitors could officially pass from the American sector into the Soviet one. The name "Charlie" comes from the NATO phonetic alphabet—after Checkpoint Alpha and Checkpoint Bravo, this was Checkpoint C, or "Charlie." It becomes one of the most iconic symbols of the division of Berlin, and even of the Iron Curtain. Today, it’s surreal to stand on the spot where tanks once faced off, now surrounded by museums, historic plaques, and street performers. It sparks the kind of conversations with kids that make history come alive.
This weekend has a theme, and it is food. Our foodie-in-chief Renate makes sure of that. On our first evening, we cozy up at Marjellchen, a classic German restaurant where rustic dishes come with a side of nostalgia—and even a working model train circling the tables. It’s old-school in the best way.
The next morning, after exploring the lobby a bit more, we follow the hotel’s recommendation and head to A Never Ever Ending Love Story, just around the corner. It lives up to its name. Beautiful plates, fluffy pancakes, and Berlin-style flat whites served with flair.
Lunch is at the buzz-worthy NENI Berlin, perched high above the city with sweeping views over the Berlin Zoo. It’s hard to beat spotting elephants, monkeys—and even a lion—while we nibble on vibrant, Middle Eastern-inspired dishes in a rooftop glasshouse setting. This is one of the Berlin lunch spots right now, and with good reason. In the afternoon, we stumble upon a vintage market, where Renate finds some unique treasures (because what’s a weekend without a little thrifting magic?).
After a quick power nap back and relaxation in our gorgeous suite, we head to MySon, a stylish Vietnamese spot just around the corner. Light, fresh, and beautifully plated—it’s the perfect contrast to the hearty fare from the night before. The evening ends (how else?) with a sweet bike ride to the largest ice cream parlour we’ve ever seen: Caffè e Gelato. With wall-to-wall flavors and serious Italian vibes, this is an essential stop for any Berlin trip with teens.
The next morning we keep things mellow. Breakfast at the hotel is a treat: à la carte dishes like smashed avocado, eggs made to order, and flaky pastries. We’re not big breakfast eaters, but the coffee alone makes it worth lingering a little longer. Afterwards, we head to SO 61, a creative corner of Kreuzberg named after its old postal code. Along Bergmannstrasse, we discover one-of-a-kind boutiques, concept stores, and local designers. Just around the corner, Marheineke Markthalle is a cozy detour—an old market hall now filled with organic local produce, deli counters, and eco-conscious treats. It’s Berlin’s version of a farmer’s market, with serious charm.
Berlin offers a surprising number of teen-friendly highlights that feel cool—not contrived. For a next visit, we’d love to explore the Botanical Gardens, a serene escape just south of the city, perfect for a quiet wander (and Insta-worthy blooms). We don’t make it to the East Side Gallery this time—an open-air gallery on a surviving stretch of the Berlin Wall, covered in vibrant murals by artists from around the world. And Bikini Berlin, a concept mall with edgy fashion, design shops, and pop-up spaces, is perfect for teens into streetwear and trends. It also houses the mentioned NENI Berlin and the famous Monkey Bar.
Berlin keeps surprising us, even after so many times. Whether you're traveling with teens or gathering your favorite girls for a weekend of food, design, and a dash of history, Sir Savigny offers a perfect base. Until next time, Berlin—you’ve fed our hearts and stomachs once again.
WOW
#The rooms are beautifully designed, warm, and comfortable. Beds you won’t want to leave.
#The location of Sir Savigny, in the heart of Charlottenburg—close to everything and yet peaceful at night.
#That cozy-luxe feeling, from the library-style lobby to the garden breakfast room and cool restaurant decor.
