When it comes to citybreaks, certain European destinations just have a kind of aura. Mention to a friend that you’re heading to Paris, Rome or Barcelona for the weekend and it’s all approving nods and misty-eyed reminiscence. ‘Oh the food, the galleries, the romance… such a short flight, so easy to get to.’ Say you’re heading to Berlin, however, and people immediately assume you’re not planning to sleep for the next 72 hours.

But look past the hordes of dead-behind-the-eyes TikTokkers inviting you to ‘come and queue with me for Berghain’, and you’ll realise that there’s far more to Berlin than doof-doof music and all-black everything (although there’s plenty of that too)… it’s also a really strong choice for a gallery-and-a-dinner type minibreak, where you can actually, you know, relax a bit.

One thing you absolutely have to get right though, is where you base yourself. As you’d expect from what was essentially two capital cities for the better part of thirty years, Berlin is absolutely huge, and what is not relaxing is spending all your time trekking from the very far west to the very far east. We stayed at the InterContinental Berlin from IHG Hotels & Resorts for exactly that reason, and found it to be the perfect base for a weekend of exploring. Centrally nestled on the edge of the picturesque Tiergarten, it’s far enough away from some of the more chaotic districts to feel nice and calm, while still remaining within easy striking distance of all the major sights.

Rooms are spacious and comfortable, as is the hotel generally - this is a place you can disappear into, in the best way. Crucially, it also houses a highly luxurious spa (we can vouch for the aromatic oil massage - a pleasingly stress-busting decision after a day of tearing around Charlottenberg) and the Michelin-starred Hugos restaurant on the top floor, giving you the very reassuring knowledge that there’s always an elite dinner option just an elevator ride from your bedroom. You’ll definitely want to get out and explore though, because (who knew?) Berlin is an absolute contender when it comes to its restaurant scene.

There’s more to Berlin than clubbing - here’s how to have a very chill weekend in Germany’s coolest city