Between matches, squeeze in some sightseeing around Berlin's buzzing centre. Special events for the FIFA World Cup include the World Cup Gala (7 June), starring the Black Eyed Peas, and the Goal! exhibition in Berlin's Filmmuseum (27 April-30 July).

Colossal Columns: Brandenburg Gate
You can't miss the magnificent Brandenburg Gate (Pariser Platz), soaring above central Berlin. Once the gate between East and West Berlin, its six sturdy columns now represent a unified Germany.

Cutting-Edge Berlin: Potsdamer Platz
After a decade of building work, vibrant Potsdamer Platz square, home to the striking contours of the Sony Centre, is now a Berlin must-see. The city's top shops, cinemas and film museum are all here.

Mighty Museums: Museumsinsel (Museum Island)
A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Museumsinsel (Vor der Alten Nationalgalerie) is getting a billion-pound makeover. Already huge, when unveiled in 2010 it will be the world's largest museum complex. Its five superb museums include the Alte Nationalgalerie and Picture Gallery.