This was originally published at Futsol as part of our City Guide series for EURO2024 and Copa América, as a look at six hosts of the mega football summer.
Berlin has been my hometown since I was 4 years old. I am deeply rooted in the city in many ways. My career constantly introduces me to new people and places, especially my photography work with my club Hertha BSC.
I am looking forward to a lively city and a festival of football. The memories of the 2006 World Cup in Germany are still vivid in many people's minds. It was a magical summer. If we can build on that a little, even more people will realise how great this city is with all its nuances and diversity. Why shouldn't Germany become European champions? It would be a nice story.
EAT.
One immediately thinks of currywurst and kebabs in Berlin, but there are some classics that are no longer so easy to find. Like Rogacki for example - a fish delicatessen shop in the heart of Charlottenburg. Time seems to have stood still here. At lunchtime, you can eat at bar tables while drinking a glass of wine, but you can also buy your fish fresh and take it home.
For a snack on the way to the Olympic Stadium, Örnek is good. It’s near Charlottenburg S-Bahn station and has one of the best lahmacuns in the city. Culinary-wise, the area of Wedding is always worth a visit. All the Berlin classics can be found here. Kebabs from Ugur or Imren or currywurst from Curry Baude.
For great Asian food, head to Kantstrasse where you'll find Chinese restaurants like Do De Li, Thai restaurants like Papaya or Taiwanese noodle soups at Lon Men.