The Berlinale international film festival has blossomed to become the most acclaimed events in the city's cultural calendar. Every year this huge two-week event attracts over 16,000 visitors from all over the world to Berlin.

International film festival in Germany's capital city
With around 350 films covering all genres, lengths and formats, the Berlinale boasts an eclectic programme that includes countless European and world premières. The line-up ranges from major productions with stellar casts to lesser-known independent pictures. An unashamedly public festival, the Berlinale isn't just an event for industry insiders.

Brandenburg Gate, the TV tower on Alexanderplatz – a 368-metre observation tower with rotating restaurant; Memorial Church on Kurfürstendamm, Gendarmenmarkt square – a beautiful and harmonious architectural synthesis with the Konzerthaus concert hall, the German Cathedral and the French Cathedral; the dome of the Reichstag – fascinating architecture and splendid views of the government quarter and the city centre; Hackesche Höfe – Berlin's famous nightlife; Potsdamer Platz – ultra-modern buildings, shops, entertainment and commercial centre.

From light entertainment to classical opera: eight great symphony orchestras, including the famous Berlin Philharmonic, and three great opera houses shape the city's musical life. Berlin's desire to entertain and be entertained is a longstanding tradition bound up with the city's legendary "Roaring Twenties". Today Berlin is experiencing something of a light entertainment revival.