MITTE. This building, which is considered home to Berlin's renowned Philharmonic, was constructed in 1961, and the eye-catching gold-plated exterior was added in the 1980s. Excellent acoustics in the strategically designed concert hall draw a continual crowd during the orchestra's 11-month season. An evening listening to the Philharmonic Orchestra is undoubtedly an enchanting experience, but it may be easier to obtain tickets for performances by visiting ensembles. TRANSPORTATION: U1 Kurfurstenstrasse

TEMPELHOF ­ SCHÖNEBERG. Big names like Nine Inch Nails and Blondie have made this stop. Located beside the ColumbiaClub, this branch of the complex is one of Berlin's largest indoor rock venues. U-BAHN: Platz der Luftbrücke

CHARLOTTENBURG ­ WILMERSDORF. Built in 1961, this massive granite structure has the reputation of being one of the two best opera houses in the world. Diverse selections of contemporary performances are provided for guests to enjoy. TRANSPORTATION: U2 Deutsche Oper

MITTE. Established in 1742, this intriguing venue served as the Royal Court Opera for Frederick the Great. After suffering damage during World War II, the building was refurbished to resemble the original structure as closely as possible. The luxurious interior sets the scene for the concert hall, which hosts numerous outstanding operas, ballets and musical performances. Tickets may be difficult to obtain, but are undoubtedly worth the effort. U-BAHN: Französische Strasse; S-BAHN: Friedrichstrasse

MITTE. This venue is renowned for its international music and, on occasion, for its live concerts performed on the largest carillon in Europe (boasting an amazing 68 bells). Visitors also can enjoy the performances provided in the lively Café Global. A museum housed in this unusually curvy structure displays foreign photographs and works of art from Latin America, Africa and Asia. Hours vary by event; check website for current program. TRANSPORTATION: S3, S5, S7, S9 Bellevue. BUS: 100