Operetta Heaven Holidays
from C and H Travel Ltd

BERLIN

Opera, Operetta and Classical Concerts in Berlin

Independent holidays and short breaks available all year round.
Escorted holidays available at certain times of year.

Berlin, City of Culture and Contrasts...

With three Opera Houses and eight major orchestras, including the world renowned Berlin Philharmonic Orchestra, Berlin is a paradise for Classical Music lovers from around the world.

Berlin is also a city of contrasts, old and new, East and West. It is a fascinating city to visit at any time of year.

There is always a wide selection of classical music to enjoy. For Opera and Ballet Lovers the Berlin State Opera and the Deutsche Oper offer a full repertoire of classic and modern works. The Komische Oper offers a mixed repertoire of Opera, Operetta and Concerts. It is renowned for lively productions and it also specialises in rarely performed works.

For lovers of orchestral music, the Berlin Philharmonic Orchestra heads an outstanding list of orchestras and ensembles performing in a variety of concert venues, from lavish palaces to ultra-modern state of the art concert halls.

Added to this, Berlin's Revue, Cabaret and Café Concert scene is thriving, so there is never any shortage of quality entertainment in this vibrant city.

Opera, Ballet, Operetta and Classical Concerts in Berlin

Berlin State Opera House

The Staatsoper Unter den Linden (The Berlin State Opera) is the oldest opera house and oldest surviving theatre building in Berlin. It is located on the Unter Den Linden at the heart of the City.

The Opera house was commissioned by King Frederick II of Prussia in 1740 and the building was completed in 1743. The house reopened in 2017 after extensive refurbishment, which took seven years to complete, restoring the original grandeur but adding state of the art technical facilities. Under the direction of Daniel Barenboim there is a year round programme of Opera, Ballet and Concerts. It is also home to the Berlin Staatskapelle Orchestra.

Details of the current repertoire can be found here or contact us for more information.

Deutsche Oper

The Deutsche Oper is located in the Charlottenburg district of Berlin. The Opera company was founded in 1912 but the present building dates from 1961. It is also home to the German State Ballet. It is Berlin's largest opera house with a capacity of 2000 seats. All seats in the auditorium offer an unimpeded view of the stage.

Traditionally, the Deutsche Oper Berlin is home to classical nineteenth-century opera, in particular Verdi, Puccini, Wagner and Strauss. The spectrum of works also regularly includes French composers and Italian bel canto operas, as well as rediscovered works from the early twentieth century. There is now a new emphasis on showcasing contemporary opera composers.

Details of the current repertoire can be found here or
contact us for more information.

The Komische Oper

Berlin’s Komische Oper has a long tradition of staging opera, operettas and musicals with a broad appeal. Productions are imaginative, vibrant, lively and sometimes controversial, but very enjoyable and accessible to a wide audience base.

Although the exterior of the building is modern, within it is the original 1882 neo-baroque auditorium. The house has an intimate and informal atmosphere. Formerly named the Metropol Theater, the repertoire focussed mainly on operettas.

Since 2012 Director Barrie Kosky has specialised in reviving largely forgotten works by Jewish composers whose works had been banned by the Nazi regime, such as Paul Abraham, Emmerich Kalman, Oscar Straus and Nico Dostal. These revivals have been received with great success and acclaim.

Details of the current repertoire can be found here or contact us for more information.

The Konzerthaus

The Konzerthaus is Berlin’s most attractive venue for first-class classical music. Here, right at the heart of the stunning Gendarmenmarkt square, you can enjoy an unforgettable classical concert experience.

It is is home to the Konzerthausorchester. The repertoire covers a spectrum from major symphonic works to chamber music, from early music to contemporary classical music. Many other concerts and workshops by visiting orchestras and ensembles take place throughout the year.

Externally, the Konzerthaus is a detailed reconstruction of the neo-classical design by Karl Friedrich Schinkel. Internally the building was principally used as a theatre, but the interior was destroyed by fire in 1945. The interior has been reconstructed in neo-classical style. The main auditorium, with its white and gold decorative elements, is very impressive. The most striking feature is the organ, with 74 organ stops and a total of 5,811 organ pipes. The Konzerthaus also houses the Apollo Hall for smaller concerts, and the modern Werner-Otto Hall.

For full details of the current programme please
contact us.

The Berlin Philharmonie
Home of the Berlin Philharmonic Orchestra

Berlin’s Philharmonie is a modern concert hall. The innovative design of the Philharmonie provides the best possible acoustics. Unlike traditional concert halls, the orchestra is placed in the centre of the hall with the audience seated around it. It is home to the legendary Berliner Philharmonic Orchestra, long ranked among the very best orchestras in the world.

Other Cultural Venues in Berlin

There are around 150 theatres and other cultural venues in Berlin offering concerts, musicals, dance, spectacular revues, cabarets and plays. Some shows are performed in English or designed for an international audience. Some venues are large, others very intimate. Whatever your preferences Berlin certainly offers something for everyone.

Other Attractions in Berlin

There is so much to see and do in Berlin it is impossible to list everything here. Geographically the city is one of the largest in Europe, but the population is much lower than that of London or Paris, with the result that it does not have the feeling of being over-crowded. Getting around the city is easy due to the excellent public transport system.

There are many sight-seeing tours available by bus or river cruise, visiting most of the main sights. It is possible to buy a "Welcome Card" which gives unlimited travel on public transport as well as discounts at dozens of attractions, shops and restaurants.

Listed below are some of the top attractions to be found in Berlin.

The Brandenburg Gate

Without a doubt, the Brandenburg Gate is Berlin's signature attraction. Built in 1791, it was just one of many old city gates around the city of Berlin which, at that time, was still a manageable size. The decorative Pariser Platz was laid at the foot of the gate and is now home to many of the city's important buildings, for example, the Hotel Adlon with its wealth of history and the Akademie der Künste (Academy of the Arts).

The Reichstag (Parliament)

The Reichstag is an internationally recognisable symbol of democracy and the current home of the German parliament. Every year, thousands of guests visit the Reichstag - and with good reason. It is not often that you can enjoy such an amazing panorama while, just beneath your feet, the political decisions of tomorrow are being made. Both as an architectural wonder and a historical testimony, the Reichstag has an important role to play in Berlin.

The modern glass dome, roof terrace and restaurant are open to visitors.

Berlin Television Tower

With a height of 368 meters, the Berlin Television Tower (Fernsehturm Berlin) is Berlin's highest landmark and an annual magnet for visitors from all over the world. Embark on a fantastic tour of discovery at lofty heights. Dine above the roofs of Berlin and experience culinary highlights or simply enjoy the impressive panoramic view over Berlin from a height of over 200m. Your fantastic journey begins with the elevator ascent from the foot of the Berlin television tower and takes you more than 200m over the roofs of this city in just a few seconds.

Gendarmenmarkt

The Gendarmenmarkt is one of the most stunning squares in the city, located close to Friedrichstraße, Berlin's exclusive shopping street in the central Mitte district. Three of the most impressive examples of architecture in the capital city are to be found here: the Concert House designed by Schinkel and the German and French Cathedrals (the Deutscher Dom and the Französischer Dom).

Unter Den Linden

Going back as far as the 19th century, the "Linden" was Berlin's most glamorous central boulevard, perfect for promenading and strolling. Nowadays, the boulevard is as charming as ever and home to buildings such as the Humboldt University, the German Historical Museum, the German Cathedral and the State Opera.

Kurfürstendamm

Extending all the way from the ruins of the Kaiser Wilhelm Memorial Church on Breitscheidplatz to Berlin's elegant Halensee neighbourhood, the affectionately termed Ku’damm is the most expensive address in the capital city and home to the most exclusive brands. Europe's biggest department store KaDeWe is also situated on the extension of the Ku'damm, on the street known to locals as the Tauentzien (short for Tauentzienstrasse). The Zoological Garden, Germany's oldest zoo, is nearby.

Charlottenburg Palace

The magnificent Charlottenburg Palace is located just out of the centre of the city. It was built in around 1700 on behalf of the Prussian Elector Friedrich III for his beloved wife Sophie Charlotte, who was very much revered by the people of the city, and is situated in the middle of a picturesque palace garden right next to the river Spree. The Charlottenburg Museums are situated directly opposite.

Museum Island

Berlin's Museum Island is one of the UNESCO world heritage sites and home to the city's most important exhibition centres: the Altes Museum (Old Museum), the Neues Museum (New Museum), the Bode Museum, the Pergamon Museum and the Alte Nationalgalerie (Old National Gallery). The collections in these buildings encompass over 6,000 years of art and cultural history. The Berlin Stadtschloss (Royal Palace) also once stood on the island. It was demolished during the GDR era, and replaced by the Palace of the Republic. There are plans to reconstruct the building in the coming year.

Berlin Wall Memorial Museum

Remains and remnants of the Berlin Wall are evident at various sites around the city. The Gedenkstätte zur Berliner Mauer (Berlin Wall Memorial) is located between the districts of Wedding and Mitte on Bernauer Straße, consisting of the Memorial to the Victims of the Wall, a Documentation Centre and the Chapel of Reconciliation. The surviving section of the wall and watchtower enable visitors to get an authentic feel of the enforced separation between East and West.

Potsdamerplatz

Once the bustling heart of the city before the Second World War, then a no man's land from 1945 until the fall of the wall, the history of Potsdamer Platz has been eventful to say the least. It changed completely after the fall of the wall in 1989 and is now dominated by the presence of the Sony Center, skyscrapers and endless shops. Potsdamer Platz is the main place to be for stars and celebrities, especially during film festivals.

Berlin Cathedral

The magnificent dome of the Cathedral Church (Berliner Dom) is one of the main landmarks in Berlin’s cityscape – and marks the spot of the impressive basilica housing the city’s most important Protestant church. With its elaborate decorative and ornamental designs, the church interior is especially worth seeing.

The church was severely damaged during the Second World War. After the division of Germany, the Cathedral Church was in East Berlin. The work on restoring the church began there in 1975, although in a simplified form.

The full restoration was only completed in 1993, four years after the Berlin Wall fell.

Nikolai Quarter

Narrow streets and cosy houses – the charm of old Berlin comes to life in the idyllic Nikolaiviertel. Discover Berlin as it once was.

As you leave the busy metropolis behind you, there are small houses instead of tall buildings, narrow streets instead of wide boulevards. Only the giant Television Tower above the rooftops reminds you that Nikolaiviertel is not a romantic village but in the middle of bustling Berlin.

The idyllic Nikolaiviertel is Berlin’s oldest residential quarter, but most of its mediaeval-looking streets and quaint houses were in fact built after the war.

Berlin Waterways,
Parks and Gardens

Visitors to Berlin are often surprised to find that the German capital sits on a vast system of waterways, spreading to a distance of around 100 miles within the city limits. Berlin is home to more bridges than Venice. When the city was divided decades ago, large parts of Berlin’s rivers, lakes and canals became unused border zones or half-forgotten industrial areas. But in the years since, they have gradually been transformed into a network of recreation and leisure. Boat trips and possibilities for water-sports are to be found throughout the city.

Berlin is one of the greenest cities in the world with hundreds of parks, gardens and recreational open spaces. The largest and most frequented is the 520 acre Tiergarten in the centre of the city.

More Museums in Berlin

There are more than 180 museums in Berlin dedicated to a vast range of subjects and interests - including arts, science and industry, transport, natural history, film and TV, social and cultural history. There is something to fascinate, educate and entertain everyone. (Pictured above the Museum of Musical Instruments). The Berlin Pass provides discounted entry to many of the most popular museums as well as discounted public transport.

Potsdam

To the south-west of Berlin lies Potsdam, the capital of the federal state of Brandenburg. The city, with its rich cultural landscape and many attractions, is a worthwhile destination that makes a wonderful complement to a trip to Berlin. It is easily reached by bus or train from Berlin. The main attractions of Potsdam include the palaces and royal parks, which have been named UNESCO World Heritage sites.

The beautiful natural landscape between Berlin and Potsdam became dotted with grand palaces and aristocratic houses in the 18th and 19th centuries. Highlights include the Neuer Garten (New Garden), Babelsberg and the world-famous Sanssouci Palace (pictured). Glienicke and the Pfaueninsel (Peacock Island), with their fairy-tale miniature palaces, and Sacrow Park are also World Heritage sites.

The Dutch Quarter is home to 134 red brick houses constructed in the 18th century in the typical Dutch style. These were originally planned as accommodation for Dutch settlers, but were later used to house soldiers. The lovingly restored little houses are now home to boutiques, craft shops and cafés.

Where to Stay in Berlin

As with any large city, there is a very large selection of places to stay in Berlin, from very traditional to ultra modern; 5 Star luxury to simple budget accommodation, fully serviced hotels or self-catering apartments. Depending on your own tastes, requirements and budget we can book any style and type of accommodation for you.

Our Specially Selected Hotels in Berlin

We have a few favourite hotels that we have chosen for their central location, their warmth of welcome and their high quality standards. These hotels have proved popular with our guests over recent years.

NH Collection Friedrichstrasse

This modern 4 Star Superior hotel is situated on Friedrichstrasse in the Mitte District in the centre of the city a very short distance from Berlin's famous Unter den Linden Boulevard and the Brandenburg Gate. The Komische Oper is less than 5 minutes walk away. The Berlin State Opera and Konzerthaus can be reached on foot in around 10 minutes. There are public transport links by rail, underground, tram and bus in the immediate vicinity of the hotel. There are numerous bars, cafés, restaurants and shops nearby.

4 Star Superior

The air-conditioned sound-proof bedrooms are spacious and comfortable, and are equipped with flat screen TVs and all the facilities you would expect from a Superior 4 Star Hotel. There are classic and superior rooms and suites available. Most of the marble bathrooms have bath with shower over, but there are also several rooms with walk-in level entry showers, if preferred.

The public areas are very spacious and comfortable. An extensive buffet breakfast is served. The hotel has a restaurant, bistro and wine bar with food and drinks available all day. The reception and concierge desk is manned 24 hours a day. Free WiFi is available throughout the hotel.

Hotel Maritim Pro Arte

This modern, comfortable 4 Star Superior+ hotel is situated on Friedrichstrasse, in the Mitte District, almost opposite the NH Hotel above. The walk to the Komische Oper (less than 5 minutes) is almost entirely under cover via arcaded walkways.

The Berlin State Opera and the Konzerthaus are around 10 minutes walk from the hotel. There are public transport links by train, underground, tram and bus in the immediate vicinity of the hotel. There are numerous bars, cafés, restaurants and shops nearby.

4 Star Superior +

The bedrooms are light, modern and comfortable with all of the comforts you would expect of a 4 Star Superior + establishment. There are classic and superior rooms and suites available. All rooms are air-conditioned.

The hotel has a two restaurants, Bar, Lounge and a Tapas Bar (ideal for lighter meals before or after the theatre).

There is an extensive buffet breakfast with table service available on request. The reception is manned 24 hours a day. There is a superb indoor swimming pool and spa / health facilities available. Free WiFi is available throughout the hotel.

Monbijou Hotel

Just 300 metres from Berlin’s lively Hackescher Markt in the Mitte District, this boutique hotel features stylish rooms and a fitness centre. Museum Island is only 400 metres away. The Berlin State Opera is 10 minutes walk away and the Komische Oper and Konzerthaus are within 15 - 20 minutes walk, or a short journey by public transport.

Public transport by tram and train is available in the immediate vicinity. There is a wide variety of bars, cafés, restaurants and shops in the local area.

Decorated in a vintage British style, the rooms offer large windows and wooden floors. Comforts include high quality beds, flat-screen TV with satellite channels, an iPod docking station and a private bathroom.

Monbijou Hotel provides guests with the option of settling into its cozy lounge with an open fire place. In the summer, refreshing drinks and cocktails are served on the Roof Terrace and the tranquil Courtyard is open for snacks.

The Westin Grand Hotel

The Westin Grand is a 5 Star Luxury hotel offering all the comfort, services and facilities that you would expect in a hotel of this class. It is situated on Friedrichstrasse, immediately adjacent to the Komische Oper and a short walk from the Konzerthaus and the Berlin State Opera.

Französische Strasse Underground Station is a 1-minute walk away. There are several bus stops on the famous Unter den Linden Boulevard, just 100 metres from the hotel.

5 Stars

The elegant bedrooms and suites have modern bathrooms and feature all the comforts, services and amenities of a 5 Star Luxury hotel, including superior quality beds and bedding, flat screen TV, bathrobes and slippers, free WiFi.

The Relish Restaurant & Bar serves modern food with French and Asian influences. A rich breakfast buffet is available in the restaurant every day. Guests can enjoy drinks in the classical lobby bar, which has panoramic windows. A pianist plays the grand piano in the cocktail bar each evening.

Westin Grand's "Emotion Spa" & beauty area includes a fitness centre, hot tub, and stylish swimming pool. Relaxing massages and a range of beauty treatments can be booked.

Our Holiday Package - What is included?

Our Independent holidays and short-breaks in Berlin can be taken at any time of year and are individually tailored to your own preferences and requirements.

Single travellers, couples and small groups are all catered for.
Dates of travel and length of stay is entirely flexible.
The hotels listed above have been specially selected by us, but if you prefer something different we will book any accommodation style or type of your choice, whether hotel, guest-house or self-catering apartment (subject to availability).
We will book tickets to any concerts, performances and similar events of your choice. We will inform you of available performances, concerts and other cultural events taking place during your stay. We will always strive to book the very best tickets available, according to your seating preferences and budget (subject to availability).
We will arrange and book private transport to concerts and events, airport transfers, rail tickets, excursions and sight-seeing trips, according to your wishes.
It is possible to combine your visit to Berlin with a stay in another destination. We will make all transfer arrangements for you between destinations.

Holiday Prices
As all of our holidays are tailor-made to your own requirements your holiday price will be calculated according to your chosen options. We will put together proposals and quotations for you based on your own preferences. All proposals can be amended as often as you wish (and prices adjusted accordingly) until you are fully satisfied with the proposed arrangements.

All quotations are offered entirely without any obligation on your part.

Flights and European Rail Travel
In order to give you maximum flexibility, we do not include flights in our holiday packages. Flights may be booked separately with our Flights Agent, or you can book or arrange your own flights if you prefer.

If you prefer not to fly, we can book European rail travel for you.