Kreuzberg, Berlin

Once nestled in the shadow of the Berlin Wall, Kreuzberg was a cheap neighbourhood primarily inhabited by newly arrived immigrants, squatters and left-wing bohemians.

Now, it's one of the trendiest neighbourhoods in the world's trendiest city.

Amazingly, it still retains an offbeat charm, with something for everyone, whether you want to pass the time in a Turkish cafe with a crunchy simit and strong tea or dance the night away in one of the area's thumping exclusive techno clubs.