Berlin needs little introduction. The city is famed for its intriguing modern history, culture, world-class museums and stately architecture, raucous music parades and festivals, and, of course, the notorious wall (even if only pieces remain). But with a return of visitors as tourism picks up after the pandemic, city tourism officials are eager to point some unique, lesser-known experiences in the German capital.

Here are five unique experiences in city guaranteed to provide unexpected experiences that provide an interesting look at the city beyond its icons:

The Disgusting Food Museum

From maggot cheese to frog smoothies, Berlin’s Disgusting Food Museum displays an equally fascinating and disgusting menu of some 80 dishes from around the world. Conceived by curator Dr. Samuel West, the first Disgusting Food Museum opened in Malmo, Sweden in 2018 and since last summer Berliners and visitors can now can also get sufficiently grossed out, but are also invited to look at the concept of “disgust” as experienced subjectively in different cultures. The on-site tasting bar offers some “delectable” samples.

Space Night

Those who wondered what a night in a spaceship might be like, can now experience sleeping in a stylish capsule at Berlin’s Space Night Hostel (banner photo). Open since July 2021 and centrally located in Berlin’s Mitte district, the Space Night Hostel offers single or double sleeping pods with comfortable mattress and bedding, LED lights, a safe deposit box and adjustable climate – all at rates starting from about €35 ($46.80)/night. Bathrooms are shared, highest hygiene standards are observed, and there’s a 24/7 reception, free WiFi, lockers, and blow dryers.

Let’s get physical

Get close to Berlin and German history while running along the former German-German border. The Wall Trail commemorates the victims of the former border that divided the country between 1961 and 1989. It runs along the former border strip, which is just over 160 km around western Berlin. Most of the Berlin Wall Trail is paved and flat, with some sandy sections, uneven trail as well as busy public roads. Scheduled for Aug. 13-14 the event is under the patronage of Rainer Eppelmann, a former GDR civil rights activist.

Berlin pure

Built in the early ‘60s, this former East Berlin power station is not only a stunning example of Berlin’s industrial heritage, but also looks back at being one of the first legendary Berlin techno clubs, the Tresor. The raw, massive steel and concrete space is now used for large-scale events and exhibitions with cutting-edge dance, art and music events planned throughout year.

On your Marx

Karl Marx was one of the most globally influential German figures of the 19th century, and the most important critic of the volatility of “modernity” and capitalism. Running through Aug. 21, at the German National History Museum, Karl Marx and Capitalism aims to present the central themes of his thought, such as technology, nature, religion, increasing social polarization, the economic crisis, the oppression of women and destruction of natural resources in the context of his time.