Cities close to Berlin

Q: We will be in Berlin for three weeks and would like to take a weekend break in another country nearby. Can you recommend cities (outside of Germany) within easy reach of Berlin? - Emily James

A: You have a fairly wide choice of destinations, but three of the best can be reached by train, which should enhance the experience. They are Prague in the Czech Republic, Krakow in Poland and Basel in Switzerland. Prague can be reached within five or six hours by train. It has emerged as a major tourist destination, so there is no shortage of hotels, restaurants and nightlife. However, its real charm is its history, architecture and overall ambience. For an even more historical excursion, visit Krakow. It takes about 10 hours by train, but you will find a pretty town that is linked to the heroism of Oskar Schindler and the horror of nearby Auschwitz. Far from being a dull, regional cente, Krakow has become very popular among young Europeans and has a bohemian feel in its many clubs and bars. At the other end of the scale is refined, sophisticated Basel, a seven-hour journey from Berlin. Located on the Rhine River, it offers an overdose of culture, with many museums and is home to the Basel Art Fair and Switzerland's largest carnival, the Fasnacht.