guide voyage berlin

1 Districts
2.1.1 The beginnings
2.1.2 Kaiserreich and Weimar Republic
2.1.3 Nazi era and World War II
2.1.4 Cold War and partition
2.1.5 History since reunification
2.2 Climate
2.4 Wildlife
2.5 Economy
2.6 Orientation
2.7 Read and watch
2.9 Tourist information
4.1.1 Getting from the airport to central Berlin
4.2 By train
4.5 By ship
4.6 By bicycle
5.1.1 Tickets
5.1.2 Purchasing tickets
5.1.3 Validating tickets
5.2 By train
5.3 By U-Bahn
5.4 By tram (streetcar)
5.6.1 Tours and rentals
5.6.2 Bicycles on public transport
5.7 By e-hailing
5.8 By taxi
5.10 By ferry
5.11 By gondola lift
6.1 Museums
6.2 Remains of the Berlin Wall
6.3 Private art galleries
6.4 Tall buildings with observation decks
7.1 Explore
7.2 Outdoor recreation
7.3 Festivals and annual events
7.4 Parades
7.5 Cultural venues
10.1 Shopping areas
10.2 Markets
10.3 Opening hours
10.4 Credit cards
11.1 Orientation
11.2 Waiters and tipping
11.3 Breakfast
12.3 Concerts
12.4 Brauhäuser
12.6 Street drinking
15.1 Prostitution
16 Stay healthy
17.1 Libraries
17.2 Embassies
18.1 By air

Berlin is Germany's capital and biggest city. Within the city limits, Berlin in 2022 had a population of 3.7 million.

Berlin is coming into its own again as a cosmopolitan capital of one of Europe's wealthiest nations. "Arm aber sexy" (poor but sexy) as a former mayor would have it, Berlin attracts young people, students and a creative bohème like few other cities in the world. With architectural heritage from Prussian monarchism, Nazism, East German communism and Potsdamer Platz , filled with 1990s and 2000s-style glass palaces after having been a "blank canvas" due to the wall, Berlin's architecture is as varied as its neighbourhoods and its people. And due to its long history as a cosmopolitan capital, it has attracted immigrants from all over the world for more than 300 years now, who continue to leave their own marks on the city.

Berlin is home to world-renowned universities, orchestras, museums, and entertainment venues, and is host to many sporting events. Its Zoological Garden is the most visited zoo in Europe and one of the most popular worldwide. The city is well known for its festivals, nightlife, contemporary arts and a very high quality of living.

Berlin can be seen as a cluster of centres. Berlin has many boroughs ( Bezirke ), and each borough is composed of several localities ( Kiez or Viertel ) — each of these boroughs and localities has a unique style. Some boroughs of Berlin are more worthy of a visitor's attention than others. Berlin used to be divided into 23 boroughs, and these boroughs are used in Wikivoyage as they remain foremost in popular conceptions of the city and are useful for visitors to know. In 2001, the number of boroughs was reduced from 23 to 12 for administrative purposes—mostly by merging old boroughs—sometimes across what was the inner-Berlin border. The boroughs can roughly be grouped into eight districts:

The city of Berlin is co-extensive with the Land of Berlin, one of the 16 federal states that make up the Federal Republic of Germany. It has a population of 3.8 million (2019) (and a million more in suburbs like Potsdam across the state line in Brandenburg ).

Berlin is and has been far less dominant as the capital of Germany than London, Paris or Madrid are in their respective countries, because of the federal nature of Germany and because the havoc war and partition wreaked on the city.

Merely a backwater town in the early 18th century, Berlin grew to be one of the most important and biggest cities in the world by the 1920s. The heart of old Prussia and a focal point of the Cold War , it lost much of its importance and historic architecture as a result of World War II and German partition.

Berlin is a world city of culture, politics, media and science. Its economy is based on high-tech firms and the service sector, a diverse range of creative industries, research facilities, and media corporations. Significant sectors also include IT, biotechnology, construction and electronics.

With the world's oldest large-scale movie studio complex in nearby Babelsberg, Berlin is an increasingly popular location for international film productions.

The beginnings

The area was most likely first settled by Slavs before German-speaking immigrants arrived in the 11th and 12th centuries. The earliest evidence of settlements in the area of what is now Berlin are a wooden rod dating from approximately 1192 and remains of wooden houses dated to 1174 which were found in a 2012 excavation in Berlin Mitte. The first written records of towns in the area of present-day Berlin date from the late 12th century. Spandau is first mentioned in 1197 and Köpenick in 1209, although these areas did not become part of Berlin until 1920 (see below). The nucleus of Berlin was two towns: Berlin (now known as the Nikolaiviertel close to Alexanderplatz), which began as a Slavic town, and Cölln, which was Germanic in origin, which included what has today become the Museum Island. While the etymology of "Berlin" is not fully clear (the bear in the coat of arms is due to an understandable wrong assumption medieval German speakers made) it is likely linked to a Slavic word for swamp. So yes, Germany's capital was literally built in a swamp. The year 1237 (first mention of Cölln in official records) is what was used as the basis for the 750-year celebrations in 1987, and it'll likely be used as the reference point for future anniversaries.

The area became known as Berlin-Cölln and was a residence for the electors of Brandenburg, but it remained a relatively small trading post. Roughly half of Berlin's inhabitants perished as a result of the Thirty Years' War (1618-1648). The war led to a signature Hohenzollern policy of allowing and even encouraging religious refugees to immigrate to the area. The policy was promulgated by "great elector" Frederic William (Friedrich Wilhelm, reigned 1640-1688), who also consolidated the trend of ruling Prussians to be called Friedrich, Wilhelm or both, which lasted all the way to the last German Kaiser Wilhelm II.

Berlin became the capital of Prussia in 1701, but Potsdam remained a symbol for Hohenzollern rule into Weimar times. In 1710 several independent towns were merged into Berlin, helping to give it the polycentric layout it still has. The Prussian leaders of the 18th century were known for their "enlightened despotism" and an amount of religious toleration far beyond that found in other parts of Europe at the time. Those policies benefited all of Brandenburg/Prussia but they had their strongest impact on Berlin.

Kaiserreich and Weimar Republic

The German Empire ( Deutsches Reich ) was formed in 1871 under Prussian dominance and Berlin became the capital of this newly-united Germany. It grew quickly as the political capital and as a centre of industry. Between 1877 and 1900, its population grew from 1 million inhabitants to 1.9 million. In 1884-1885, Berlin was the location of the Berlin Conference, in which the great powers, namely Austria-Hungary, Belgium, Denmark, France, Germany, Italy, the Netherlands, the Ottoman Empire, Portugal, Russia, Spain, Sweden, the United Kingdom and the United States, met to divide Africa among themselves.

In 1918, it was in Berlin that many of the most decisive events of the German November Revolution to overthrow the Kaiser took place. Philipp Scheidemann, a Social Democrat, declared a republic from a window of the Reichstag on 9 November 1918. Just hours later, communist Karl Liebknecht declared a "free socialist republic" leading to a schism between the Social Democrats and Communists, who were already at odds in 1914 over the question of whether to support World War I . Berlin became one of the centres of fighting and chaos. The split continued throughout the Weimar Republic period.

In 1920, the last of the annexations of towns surrounding Berlin created the administrative borders it has today, then known as "Groß-Berlin", or Greater Berlin. The Weimar era was probably the high point in both the importance of Berlin and its reputation in the world. The city's population grew to 4 million people. It was one of the most populous and influential cities in the world, only exceeded in population by New York City and London. In area, Groß-Berlin was the second biggest city in the world behind only Los Angeles. Almost all politicians, intellectuals, artists, scientists and other public figures known during the Weimar Republic lived and worked in Berlin. It was here that the theatres, cabarets and cinemas brought German culture to a frenetic flourishing that was suddenly and violently ended with the Nazi takeover.

Potsdamer Platz (site of one of the first traffic lights in the world) was considered one of the places in Europe with the densest traffic. The rapidly developing S-Bahn (electrified in that era) and U-Bahn mass transit systems were seen as models for the world with few equals. Tempelhof Airport (then without its iconic terminal building which was built by the Nazis) was seen as one of the best airports in Europe, and its connection to the U-Bahn showed the way for all major airports to come.

Berlin was also a bustling multicultural place with people from all over the world contributing to its cultural and economic output. Rampant inequality, however, meant that not everybody participated in the boom. The economic crisis of 1929 and the subsequent austerity measures hit the poorest disproportionately hard. Housing was scarce in the city, and apartment blocks intended to remedy this were built. Six groups of these buildings have been declared UNESCO World Heritage Sites under the name "Berlin Modernism Housing Estates".

Nazi era and World War II

The takeover of Germany by the Nazis in 1933 meant a break for the culture of Berlin. Many of the intellectuals and artists who had been drawn to the liberal and progressive metropolis had to flee, were imprisoned by the Nazis or otherwise silenced. The vibrant gay scene which had existed more or less openly despite laws banning male homosexuality was brutally suppressed by the Nazis. Until 1933 Berlin felt a world apart from the rising Nazi threat emerging from more rural areas. It seemed almost as a foreign invasion when the Nazis took power and asserted their brutal regime in Berlin and the rest of Germany. The Nazis wanted to redesign Berlin into "World Capital Germania", but the war put an end to those plans. The Nazi buildings that remain were built before the war and are not always associated with them, such as the Olympic Stadium (built for the 1936 games), and the terminal building for Tempelhof Airport.

Berlin was hit hard and repeatedly by a series of aerial bombardments during World War II that levelled a lot of the city. In the last months of the war, Berlin was at the heart of one of the bloodiest battles of the war as several Soviet generals raced one another to get to Berlin first because Stalin believed the Americans and British intended to conquer Berlin as well. A "whispered joke" making the rounds at the time among Germans said the war would be over when the Volkssturm (old men and teenagers - Hitler's last "soldiers" of any kind) would take the S-Bahn to the front. The iconic photo of a Soviet soldier raising the red flag on the Reichstag dates to that era, and graffiti made by Soviet soldiers in 1945 can still be found in the Reichstag Building.

Some foreign tourists like to ask where the Führerbunker is, but like other potential "shrines to Nazism" it was levelled by the Allies and is now the site of a parking lot. The Topographie des Terrors ("Topography of Terror") in central Berlin is an open-air exhibit that gives backgrounds on the sites of various Nazi offices in Berlin and which atrocities were directed from where.

Cold War and partition

Berlin was divided into four sectors in accordance with the agreements of Yalta and Potsdam. While the powers had planned to jointly administer Berlin and Germany, it broke down with the Soviet blockade of the Western sectors, and then with the Berlin airlift. West Berlin had to be supplied by the western allies through the air.

The airlift, including the dropping of small packets of candy on makeshift parachutes, endeared people in West Berlin to the Western allies, and eventually forced the Soviets to end the blockade. Despite the name "raisin bomber", the single most common good by net tonnage was coal. Because the sectors were cut off from Soviet-occupied electricity lines, the planes also flew in an entire power plant and subsequently the fuel for it, but most coal was used to heat private homes. West Berlin later became a part of West Germany in fact if not in name: it sent non-voting delegates to the Bundestag who were nominated by the Berlin parliament rather than elected by the people; similarly all federal laws had to be approved by the Berlin legislature, which usually happened without any real vote or discussion. Berlin remained the last open crossing in the increasingly militarised and airtight "inner-German" border. On 13 August 1961, the East German (GDR) leadership closed the border just weeks after East German leader Walter Ulbricht said in a press conference "Niemand hat die Absicht eine Mauer zu errichten" (nobody has the intention of building a wall). The border was fortified more and more in the ensuing years with several walls. The concrete wall was soon covered in graffiti on its western side. The side was in East Berlin, but neither the East German nor the West German authorities were willing or able to police it.

While there was an effort in the west to preserve historic buildings which had survived Allied bombardment, the GDR tore down buildings that might have been salvageable. The Stadtschloss was seen as a remnant of feudalism and was replaced with the Palast der Republik which housed the GDR Parliament. It was torn down after 1990 due to its political associations and asbestos content. A new Stadtschloss at the same site, housing the Humboldt Forum , opened in 2020. The rebuilding of a feudal monument on the site of east Germany's most notable representative building was seen as a dubious political statement, and was controversial because of the questionable way in which many of the exhibits were acquired during the colonial era.

The partition also led to a unique development, especially in the Western half. West Berlin never legally belonged to the Federal Republic of Germany, even though it "voluntarily" applied most West German laws. A prohibition on joining the military made it a place for many students and radicals or people who wanted to avoid the draft to go. The student revolts of 1967/68 mostly took place here. It was here that young Benno Ohnesorg was shot during a protest against the Shah of Iran in 1967. This galvanised a movement against continued presence of Nazi elites, the Vietnam War and several - perceived or real - birth defects of the young German Federal Republic. This movement, retroactively called die 68er (the 68ers), was most prominent in Berlin. Its leader, Rudi Dutschke, an East German emigrant from Brandenburg. In this era, Kreuzberg, a part of which was surrounded by the wall on three sides, became a hotbed of leftist activism. There were frequent clashes with police, which have been occasionally repeated since reunification. During partition, artists like David Bowie came to Berlin for inspiration. A stop at landmarks symbolic of the division became a mainstay of foreign state visits to the city. Ronald Reagan famously stood in front of the Brandenburg Gate, made inaccessible by the Wall, when he said "Mister Gorbachev open this gate; Mister Gorbachev tear down this wall."

People fed up with the situation in East Germany - and encouraged by Gorbachev's policy of glasnost and perestroika - took to the streets in increasing numbers in 1989. There was a large demonstration at Alexanderplatz in October 1989. On 9 November 1989, GDR press secretary Günter Schabowski read aloud a new decree regarding an opening of the border during the first-ever live GDR press conference. On the subsequent question of when it would enter in force, he replied "sofort, unverzüglich" (i.e. immediately). While the people who had drafted the new decree had not intended for immediate entry into force, Schabowski had been kept out of the loop regarding that crucial detail. This slip-up led to people flocking to the border post in the belief the Wall had fallen. The overwhelmed guards had no choice but to open the border, and this day became known as the "fall of the Berlin Wall". The Wall was torn down in the ensuing days and weeks. Events began moving fast, and after elections resulted in a clear pro-unification majority, East Germany joined West Germany on 3 October 1990, just days ahead of what would have been the 41st anniversary of the GDR. Berlin became the capital of reunified Germany and most government institutions moved there in 1998.

History since reunification

Despite its almost total lack of industry (what survived the war either left West Berlin or was nationalised in East Berlin and mostly went bankrupt during 1989/90), Berlin is a major draw for immigrants, particularly the young and well-educated. Unlike virtually all major capitals, Berlin is slightly less well-off than the national average, and thus has had comparatively affordable rents and costs of living during the postwar era, albeit with a steep upward trend catching up to its peers by the 2020s. This has combined to make Berlin one of the centres of the startup phenomenon. The "rent question" has come to dominate Berlin politics in the 2020s with a Berlin-based rent control law struck down by the Constitutional Court on the grounds that a state government didn't have that authority (only the federal government does) and a plebiscite in the works that would expropriate big private real estate companies which had bought up a lot of Berlin housing stock cheaply in the neoliberal 2000s.

While the Wall is now fallen longer than it ever stood, and some scars of partition took only weeks or months to mend, there are still visible signs of where the border once was. Some are seemingly innocuous like the lack of trams in the old West or the colour of street lights, but some are kept in place on purpose to remind locals and visitors alike of that phase of history. After reunification, there was an iconoclasm of all things GDR. While many things (particularly the monuments to the Soviet soldiers) were kept, the most notable victim of a drive to tear down all relics of Communist government was the Palast der Republik . It was torn down in part because of asbestos contamination, but also to restore the former Prussian Stadtschloss , which had been torn down to make way for the GDR reorganisation of the city.

Berlin is at a transition point between temperate oceanic and continental climates, meaning warm summers and cold winters. Nighttime temperatures typically fall below freezing in the winter, and snowfall is a regular occurrence, though the snow rarely accumulates for more than a few days. Summers are typically pleasant, with daytime temperatures typically in the low 20s, and nighttime temperatures staying above 10 °C. Berlin is a rather windy city, though by no means as windy as coastal cities like Hamburg or Lübeck. A wind-stopping jacket comes highly recommended, especially during autumn and spring.

As a city that grew from an assortment of minor towns in a backwater of Europe to the third biggest city in the world in barely more than two centuries, Berlin has always been a place where being "from elsewhere" was the rule rather than the exception. During GDR times, East Berlin attracted many people from the countryside and other cities as new housing was built at a faster rate there to alleviate the housing shortage. Furthermore, Berliners often enjoyed slightly fuller shelves and shorter lines in supermarkets than other East Germans. In the West, some people left Berlin due to its isolation, and others came in due to the exemption from the draft. Since reunification, Berlin's Jewish community has been growing because of immigration from the former Soviet Union, and because some young Israelis find Berlin a better place to live (and party) than Tel Aviv, Haifa or Jerusalem. Today Berlin draws people from Germany and from all over Europe, particularly the south of the continent. You will find a diaspora of very close to every ethnicity, religion and national origin in Berlin. This means that Berlin is able to constantly reinvent itself, but a Berliner born-and-raised is something of a rare sight outside some outlying neighbourhoods.

Nowadays the conflicts between Easterners and Westerners are often replaced by jokes about Swabians, who have a reputation for thriftiness, uptightness and an audible dialect. Many Swabians have flocked to neighbourhoods like Prenzlauer Berg, and the welcome hasn't always been warm. Make no mistake, however, often those complaining the loudest about "Swabians" or gentrification are relatively recent arrivals themselves.

Berliners are notorious for a certain type of "humour" that can come across as just plain rudeness to those not accustomed to it. The stereotypical Berliner has a reputation for impolite directness even among Germans who in general see little use in pleasantries and small talk. Berliners will also frequently complain about supposed or real government incompetence which they find evidenced in everything from trash on the streets or a delayed bus to the woes during the construction of the new airport or the understaffed civil service. However, it is generally not seen favourably when out of towners start joining the complaints.

Berlin is also a remarkably irreligious city with only about a quarter of the population belonging to either the Protestant or Catholic Church as tracked for tax reasons. Media – especially those of a conservative bent or based in mostly Catholic southern Germany – have consequently taken to calling Berlin the "capital of atheists". Nevertheless, Berlin also has a large Muslim population, and you can meet people from every religion in Berlin.

Though Berlin is traditionally associated with bears, you are not likely to see any of them roaming the streets. However, Berlin is also known for its foxes, which are visible not only in parks but also at times on quiet streets of relatively built-up, centrally located neighborhoods at night. There is also a great variety of bird life, especially in the huge Tiergarten, where you can hear Eurasian blackbirds, nightingales, European robins, goldfinches, blackcaps and quite a few other songbirds in the spring and summer.

From 1871 to 1940, Berlin was a centre for major German industrial companies and the administrative headquarters of many companies in all fields. However, soon after the Second World War ended, many of these companies moved south or west, went bankrupt, or were nationalised in the GDR.

Berlin consequently became a centre of research, rather than of production. West Berlin had a special subsidy for "Berlin-made" industrial products during partition, but those were usually products which had the bare minimum of production occur in Berlin to benefit from the subsidy and almost all of those schemes ceased the moment the subsidy was ended after reunification.

While some company headquarters have moved to Berlin since reunification in 1990, the dominance of the capital is much less pronounced in the German economy than in that of most other European countries. Despite the economic boost resulting from the country's capital moving back to the city, Berlin's unemployment rate soared over 10% from 2000 to 2010. Berlin today is known in Germany for being a centre of creative branches such as design and arts of all kinds; you will see a lot of people working with Notebooks in some coffee shops.

Since reunification some companies have established head offices in Berlin but in many cases those exist primarily to have a "representative" address on the letterhead and a lot of administration, let alone development or production is still done outside Berlin. In what many Berliners hope to be a sign of a trend change, Berlin founded industrial conglomerate Siemens is once again moving into its 1920s "Siemensstadt" in the 2020s to have a capital location for research, administration and production.

Orientation

As Berlin grew from several different towns and villages, there is not one centre per se but rather several centres which can make orientation a bit difficult.

The apocryphal adage about Washington DC's street layout being designed to confuse invading armies could apply to Berlin as well, if it were designed by anybody to do anything at all. Berlin's streets are confusing and follow no logic to speak of, owing to the development of the city and to decades of partition. Cardinal directions are of little use: almost nothing is aligned straightforwardly east–west, nor north–south, not even the former border. Street signs therefore usually bear the names of boroughs and sometimes local landmarks.

There may be different streets of the same name scattered across the city. For example, there are at least three streets named "Potsdamer Straße": one in Lichtenrade, one in Zehlendorf and another one in Giesendorf. This is not an uncommon thing in Berlin in part due to it having been a bunch of separate cities and villages. Some of the more common names have since been changed, but by far not all of them. It is a good idea to always keep in mind which district you are travelling to. German postal codes are pretty fine-grained and usually the same street-name should not appear twice in the same code, so try and use the full address with postal code and/or district. Taxi drivers somehow have to (and usually do) know most of those strange and repeating street names. As Istanbul-born comedian Serdar Somuncu quipped with regard to the many Turkish-descendant taxi drivers, "A German wouldn't go to Istanbul to become a taxi driver, yet countless Turkish taxi drivers get people to one of the three dozen Goethe Straßen in Berlin without fail every day".

House numbers do not necessarily run in the same direction (up or down) everywhere. On a lot of streets, the numbers ascend on one side and descend on the other. So to avoid getting you lost, you should check the numbering scheme first: you can find the name of the street at nearly every street corner. The same sign will usually state the range of house numbers in that segment.

Berlin's U-Bahn and S-Bahn bear the scars of decades of partition and of post-reunification lack of funds. They originated as a hodgepodge of lines with different loading gauges constructed by private companies and then-independent cities. Routes are indicated by number and the name of their endpoint, so memorise them lest you want to go many kilometres in the wrong direction. A good public transport map comes in handy, and several institutions hand out city maps with urban rail stops indicated on them. The U-Bahn, S-Bahn and, in the former East, Straßenbahn (tramway) are still a good way to get around. The buses are also clean, reliable and relatively fast.

Read and watch

Berlin probably reached its cultural peak in the 1920s, although since then many artists took a lot of inspiration from the divided years. Here are just a few books and films to introduce you to Berlin:

Berlin Alexanderplatz (Alfred Döblin, 1929) captures the Berlin of its time. The most famous of its three film versions is the 15½-hour Fassbinder film. A remake loosely based on the novel was released in 2020.
Emil and the Detectives (Erich Kästner, 1929) is the most famous book set in Berlin. Emil, a naïve country boy, is robbed by a criminal. The boy is helped by a gang of street-savvy Berlin children who solve the case by themselves. There are several film versions of the story, made from 1931 to 2001.
Cabaret perhaps the work that defined the view of the Weimar Republic in the Anglophone world. The movie is based on the 1939 book, Goodbye to Berlin , by Christopher Isherwood, a gay man about the nightlife of pre-war Berlin, a hedonistic world ignoring the coming catastrophe
Wir Kinder vom Bahnhof Zoo , a 1978 autobiography written by "Christiane F." about a drug-addicted child prostitute in West Berlin. David Bowie recorded the soundtrack for the 1981 film.
Run Lola Run (German: Lola rennt ), a 1998 movie about a small time criminal and his girlfriend, Lola. Its frenetic narrative tells three different versions of the same story depending on Lola's decisions. It was one of the biggest post-reunification successes of German cinema.
Good Bye, Lenin! , a 2003 film set in East Berlin during the 1989/90 transition. The premise is the protagonist trying to ensure his mother, who fell into a coma shortly before the fall of the Wall and awoke shortly afterwards, doesn't realise the GDR is no more.
The Kangaroo Chronicles (Marc-Uwe Kling, 2009–14). A "minor artist" narrates his life with a communist kangaroo roommate; the two engage in hijinks, often of a political bent, philosophising about the injustices of capitalism, and how modern society induces laziness. His observational comedy is spot-on. A movie based on the books was released in 2020.
Victoria , a 2015 film about one night in Berlin, shot in a single 140-minute take without cuts. A Spanish student in Berlin runs into a gang who are much less sophisticated but exhibit a rough charm. They inadvertently get involved in criminal activity, giving the film elements of a thriller and road movie through different parts of the city.
Babylon Berlin (2017–present), a hit TV series about crime, nightlife, demimonde, drugs and political conflict in 1920s Berlin, loosely based on the crime novel series.

There are countless musical tributes to Berlin, many of which praise the imperfections that are characteristic of the city. This is just a small selection:

Paul Lincke's operetta song Berliner Luft (1904)
Hildegard Knef's Berlin, dein Gesicht hat Sommersprossen (1966)
the Rauch-Haus-Song (1972) by leftist rock band Ton Steine Scherben, which became the anthem of the squatter scene and was covered by several punk bands
David Bowie and Iggy Pop lived in West Berlin during the late-1970s. Bowie's albums Low , Heroes and Lodger are therefore known as the "Berlin Trilogy". Songs that are clearly about Berlin include Iggy's The Passenger (1977) and Bowie's nostalgic Where are we now? (2013)
Wir stehn auf Berlin (1980) by Neue Deutsche Welle band Ideal
Sido's rap Mein Block (2004) about life in the Märkisches Viertel , a deprived plattenbau estate
Dickes B (2001) by reggae/dancehall combo Seeed and Schwarz zu blau (2009) by Seeed member Peter Fox

Berlin is a centre of electronic music of all kinds, and its legendary clubbing scene attracts people from around the globe. The movie Berlin Calling , with music by Paul & Fritz Kalkbrenner (the former also playing the main role), is a celebration of this part of Berlin culture.

Tourist information

Visit Berlin . ( updated Feb 2024 )

Signage and automatic announcements are often available in English , and possibly other languages besides German. Most signage related to the partition era is available in all three languages of the former occupiers (French, Russian and English). There are, however, surprisingly many people who speak little or no English, in particular among the elderly and people who grew up in the East, where Russian was taught in schools. This does not necessarily keep them from attempting to speak English with you if they notice an accent or halting German.

A lot of place names can be a bit tricky even to fluent German speakers as they are of Slavic origin. The widespread -ow ending is to be pronounced /o:/ like a long German "o". Saying "Pankoff" or "Rudoff" will mark you as an out-of-towner and might cause jokes at your expense.

People who work in public transit and the tourism sector are now expected to speak at least some English, but they may not necessarily have much patience explaining the same thing over and over to tourists every single day, even when it's their job to do so, and the aforementioned Berlin rudeness / "humour" might come through when dealing with tourists.

Immigration and the Erasmus programme mean there are several other languages widely spoken. In particular, there are some 200,000 people of Turkish origin living in Berlin, mainly in the western districts. But don't assume someone speaks Turkish well (or at all) just because they have a Turkish surname. Foreign students originate from all over Europe, but Spanish, Greek and Italian speakers are especially numerous. As many students in Berlin are either Erasmus students or have been abroad elsewhere, you can reasonably expect students to speak at least passable English and often another European language.

The Berlin dialect ( Berlinerisch ) is still spoken by many people, particularly in outlying districts and neighbouring Brandenburg. Dialect is usually more pronounced in the East and some words are almost entirely unknown even in West Berlin. Some words used in the Berlin dialect:

Schrippe: bread roll
Stulle: sandwich
Broiler: grilled chicken (people from western Germany and former West Berlin probably won't understand this; they say Grillhähnchen instead)

You may also want to consider flying in to the airports of Hamburg , Frankfurt or Hanover . From there you can take a (high-speed) train or intercity bus to Berlin. The nearby airports of Leipzig and Dresden have fewer scheduled flights.

Getting from the airport to central Berlin

The airport is in Fare Zone C of the Berlin public transit fare system, so you will have to use a ticket valid in BC (not valid for entering the central "A" zone) or ABC for €4.00 (August 2023). Tickets valid only in AB or the DB "City Ticket" are not valid for travel to the airport and you are subject to a €60 fine (January 2023) if caught using the wrong ticket or no ticket at all. There are also 24-hr tickets and 7 day tickets available.

From the airport by car: Should you wish to drive from the airport, use A113 and follow signposting. Berlin's traffic is becoming a major issue, so think twice before using your car.

The central station 52.52549 13.36913 3 NOT EXISTING LISTING IMAGE Hauptbahnhof (Central Station) together with 52.47549 13.36474 4 Südkreuz ( Southern Cross , formerly Papestraße) and 52.51001 13.43454 5 Ostbahnhof ( Eastern Station ) — plus minor 52.54939 13.38878 6 Gesundbrunnen in the north and 52.53473 13.19839 7 Spandau in the west — forms the backbone of all connections. All are connected to S- or U-Bahn. All trains stop at Hauptbahnhof and a second major hub (depending on your itinerary). Regional trains stop at several stations within Berlin, almost all of them also at Hauptbahnhof and all stop at least at one major long-distance hub. The Hauptbahnhof is situated between the S-Bahn stations Friedrichstraße and Bellevue. It is an impressive feat of architecture with many shops, most of them open on Sundays. Given its size, the distances between train platforms are surprisingly short. However, try to avoid tight connections, as the multilevel layout can be confusing at first and Berlin Hauptbahnhof is a good place to kill half an hour at any rate. The new 'Hauptbahnhof' may appear as 'Lehrter Bahnhof' on older maps.

U5 connects the Hauptbahnhof to Alexanderplatz and destinations further east (older guides might state U55 instead which has been merged into the lengthened U5 in 2020). Four S-Bahn lines ( S3 , S5 , S7 , S9 ) serve the station as do three tram lines (M5, M8, M10). The tram lines serve the Main Station coming from the East and the M10 also runs west to Moabit (U Turmstraße). M10 is particularly known as a "party tram" due to its route serving several nightlife hotspots and has been the subject of many a newspaper article. In addition to these transport options mostly oriented East-West a new S-Bahn line, tentatively called "S21" is under construction serving as another north–south spine through Hauptbahnhof.

During partition Berlin had two main train stations: Zoologischer Garten (practically universally referred to in speech as Bahnhof Zoo or just Zoo ) in the West, and Ostbahnhof in the East. The latter was named "Hauptbahnhof" from 1987 to 1998. Since the opening of the Hauptbahnhof, most ICE and international lines no longer stop at Zoologischer Garten, although regional DB services and S+U-Bahn services still stop there.

Berlin is served by all the train types Deutsche Bahn (DB) has on offer, including high speed ICE, somewhat slower IC, and EuroCity (EC) operated by DB and other European railway companies. Connections to the rest of Germany are excellent and most of Europe is reachable with one or two changes. While train routes to Berlin suffered during partition, they were a high federal priority following reunification and today Berlin has fast train connections to the west and south. Trains due north and east are still a bit slower. For example, the line to Dresden is slower today than it was in the 1930s when streamlined steam trains plied the route.

Domestic trains to Berlin include ICE services from Hamburg , Munich via Leipzig / Halle , Erfurt and Nuremberg with the fastest trains arriving in Berlin less than four hours after departure from Munich, IC/EC services from Dresden, and several "regional" trains, which have more intermediate stops and longer travel time than ICE. Among these the IRE from Hamburg might be of interest due to its cheap fixed price (€19.90 one way, €29.90 round trip). Berlin is also a stop for several "ICE Sprinter" services - ICE trains with fewer or no intermediate stops intended to lure business travellers from planes onto trains with faster travel times.

Berlin is also served by a private competitor of DB: Flixtrain , a subsidiary of Flixbus. They run trains from Stuttgart via Wolfsburg, Frankfurt and other stops, from Cologne via Bielefeld , Hanover , and Wolfsburg , from Basel , via Frankfurt , as well as shorter distances from Dresden , and Leipzig with a stop in Wittenberg . In addition to Hauptbahnhof, some Flixtrain trains stop in some of Berlin's other major train stations; Gesundbrunen, Ostbahnhof, Südkreuz, and Spandau. Flixtrain doesn't accept any DB tickets, and the same is true vice-versa.

The Austrian railway company ÖBB (under the name Nightjet ) runs sleeper trains to Berlin from Vienna (11 hr) and Zürich (12 hr).

Flixbus - the biggest player in the market
RegioJet/Student Agency mostly serving the Hamburg - Berlin - Dresden - Prague corridor

Berlin's "capital beltway", the A10 Berliner Ring , extends up to 30 km (19 mi) outside the city limits and actually only touches Berlin itself in the Northeast. It was built in the GDR era as the longest circular motorway in the world to direct traffic around West-Berlin but has since been surpassed in length by Beijing's sixth ring road and also Beijing's seventh ring road when it opens. At 196 km (122 mi) it is 8 km (5.0 mi) longer than the M25 around London, Europe's second longest orbital motorway. These motorways (enumerated in a clockwise direction) connect with the ring:

A11 from Stettin at Dreieck Schwanebeck
A12 from Frankfurt (Oder) / Warsaw at Dreieck Spreeau
A13 from Dresden / Prague at Kreuz Schönefeld
A9 from Leipzig / Munich at Dreieck Potsdam
A2 from Hanover / Dortmund at Dreieck Werder
A24 from Hamburg at Dreieck Havelland .

From the ring, these are the motorways heading towards the city:

A111 from the northwest at Kreuz Oranienburg
A114 from the north at Dreieck Pankow
A113 from the southeast at Schönefelder Kreuz
A115 from the southwest at Dreieck Nuthetal .

There are also dual carriageways:

B96 from the north and the south
B2 from the northeast
B5 from the east and west
B101 from the south.

Inside Berlin there is a heavily congested inner ring motorway (A100), which encircles the north, west and south with the northeastern section missing. Berlin driving is not for the faint-hearted, but manageable as there are wide streets and reasonably good parking conditions - at least in most parts of the city. The very existence of A100 is controversial in Berlin and its extension even more so. There are occasional demonstrations on A100 (usually with some transportation policy related aim) that shut down A100 for motorized traffic.

Berlin has a low emission zone ( Umweltzone ), which contains all areas within the S-Bahn ring. All vehicles moving inside this zone (including foreign vehicles) are required to bear a green emissions sticker ( Feinstaubplakette ). There are exceptions, e.g., for historic cars, but not for foreign number plates. The sticker can be ordered on-line .

Being some 200 km (120 mi) inland, Berlin does not have a seaport. The nearest seaport is Rostock -Warnemünde, which is 2½-3 hours away by train, though still sold by many cruise ship operators as " Berlin ", so don't be surprised. There are similar distances to the seaports of Hamburg and Szczecin . The latter was "Berlin's port" until 1945, but Cold War neglect and the newly drawn German-Polish border have all but severed that connection. There have been only slow attempts in the 2010s and 2020s to re-establish the link.

Some river cruises start or end at Berlin, using the Havel, Spree and some canals for cruises to Prague or the Baltic Sea . While river cruises in this area are nowhere near as popular as those along the Rhine or the Danube, there is some charming nature (including the Spreewald ) rather close to Berlin. Most cruises include a tour of Berlin as the river Spree runs close to many sights.

The 700-km Berlin-Copenhagen Cycle Route and the 340-km Berlin- Usedom Cycle Route both end in Berlin.

By public transport

As Berlin is a major metropolis with pretty decent public transit, you should take buses, trains and trams whenever possible as those cover most of the city and are often the fastest way to get to places. The Berliner Verkehrsbetriebe (BVG) list all their fares on their website. Consult their Berlin route planner (in English) to get excellent maps and schedules for the U-Bahn, buses, S-Bahn local trains (RB and RE) and trams, or to print your personal journey planner. The route planner can also calculate the fastest door-to-door route for your destination for any given day and hour. However, the route planner assumes a rather slow walking speed. It might suggest taking a bus or tram for a single stop where healthy adults would be faster walking. The planner will let you pick between three walking speeds, but even the fastest walking speed is not terribly fast if you have no luggage. While BVG doesn't run S-Bahn or local trains, they are covered by the website and can be used with the same tickets.

BVG's customer service , ☏ +49 30 19449 . If you don't know how to get somewhere, or how to get home at night, BVG's customer service number. Most U-Bahn and some S-Bahn stations have call points from which you can contact customer service directly. Some BVG buses and tram lines run 24 hours a day, seven days a week.

The public transport system in Berlin (U-, S-Bahn, bus, tram, regional rail) uses a common ticket system based on zones (zone A, B and C). You are unlikely to go beyond zone A and B, except on trips to Potsdam or to the airport (BER). The border between zones A and B is the S-Bahn Ring (see below). Zone C includes trips to and within Potsdam.

The following tickets can be used for single journeys:

Single Ticket . The standard single journey ticket. It is valid for any travel within two hours of validation, in a single direction, within the appropriate fare zones. There is no limit to transfers, but return journeys are not allowed. Price: Berlin AB €3.20 (reduced €2.00); Berlin ABC €4.00 (reduced €2.90). ( updated Sep 2023 )
4-trip ticket ( (4 Fahrten Karte) ). This gives you 4 single trip tickets at a cheaper cost. Price: Berlin AB €10.00 (reduced €6.20). ( updated Sep 2023 )
Short trip ( Kurzstrecke ). For a single journey you can buy a cheap Kurzstrecke for €2.20, but this is only valid for 3 stops on the U-Bahn or S-Bahn (transfers permitted) or 6 stops on buses or trams (no transfers). The stations included in a short trip ticket are indicated on schedules posted at bus and tram stops. ( updated Sep 2023 )

Several options are available for unlimited travel:

24 hour Ticket (24 Stunden Karte) - valid for 24 hours from validation for unlimited travel within specific zones (€9.50 for AB, €9.90 for BC and €10.70 for ABC as of August 2023)
Small Group Day Ticket AB (Kleingruppen-Tageskarte). A day ticket valid for up to five people. For groups of three or more, this ticket is cheaper than individual day tickets. Price: Berlin AB €29.00, Berlin ABC €31.00 (August 2023).
7-Day-Ticket AB (7-Tagekarte). A ticket valid for seven days. Price: Berlin AB €39, Berlin ABC €46 (August 2023).

Berlin CityTourCard . Ticket valid for all public transport services in Berlin, Potsdam and the surrounding area (depending on the covered zones) and a discount card for many tourist attractions; available in several different versions: 48 hours AB €20.00; 72 hours AB €30; 5 days AB €43. Add €5 if you want to go to Potsdam (fare zone ABC). A folded leaflet with a map of the inner city and an overview of the S-Bahn and U-Bahn railway networks of Berlin is included. Can be bought at ticket machines and various sales points (Berlin airports, larger train stations, hotels or online).
Berlin WelcomeCard . Unlimited travel with all methods of public transport for the validity of the ticket; save up to 50% on more than 200 tourist and cultural highlights; handy guide in pocket book format with insider tips and tour suggestions; city plan for Berlin and Potsdam and a network plan for public transport. Can be bought at various sales points (Berlin airports, larger train stations, hotels or online).

Tickets valid for only B and C are available as well, which you might need for a single trip to the Airport from somewhat out of the way lodgings. There is only one way to get a ticket only valid in A: Deutsche Bahn offers "City Tickets" as an add-on for their long distance train tickets and in Berlin those are only valid for a single trip inside the A zone.

Reduced fares apply for children 6 to 14. Children under 6 ride free.

Purchasing tickets

Tickets can be purchased in several ways. Upon arrival at the different Berlin airports, some tickets can be purchased at the tourist desk. All tickets are available at vending machines at the airports, U- and S-Bahn platforms, and passengers may also use the vending machines operated by DB at long-distance and regional railway stations to purchase the same. English and other European languages are available. Payment is mostly by local bank cards, coins and banknotes. If you need assistance most larger stations have staffed ticket counters where you can ask questions and buy tickets. Buses will accept cash, and make change for tickets. Hotels may sell tickets as well. It is also possible to purchase tickets with an overseas debit or credit card (i.e. Visa and Mastercard) via the BVG mobile app and DB Navigator app (from the menu, tap Transport associations then VBB - Berlin & Brandenburg and select the appropriate ticket) but ensure that the device your ticket is loaded into has sufficient battery life to last the duration of the journey.

In some places people will try to sell used tickets to you. You can go only one direction with a single-journey ticket (check the validation stamp and be careful as this could also be a pickpocket trick). Don't pay more than half the price.

Validating tickets

You need to validate your ticket using the machines on the U- and S-bahn platforms or in the bus. The machines are yellow/white in the U-Bahn and the bus, and red on S-Bahn platforms. Validation simply means the machine prints a time stamp onto the ticket to indicate the beginning of the ticket's validity period. Alternatively, if travelling on the regional trains (see next section), a conductor may validate the ticket for you whilst on board by punching a time stamp. Once validated, a ticket which is still valid does not need to be re-validated before each single trip. When purchasing tickets through the DB Navigator app, passengers can opt to validate their ticket immediately after purchase so there is no need to do anything further to validate it.

Whilst it might be tempting to try to avoid buying a ticket given the absence of physical barriers, plain-clothed inspectors do patrol the trains. There is a €60 fine if you are caught without a validated ticket or if the device your ticket is loaded into runs out of battery shortly before or during inspection. Ticket inspections are arguably more common than in other cities and the inspectors more strict than in other cities. Don't even try to outrun one. They'll catch you and be all the more pissed at you. In some cases fare inspectors have not shirked from using physical force to restrain would be fare-evaders. Fare dodging cases rarely go to court unless for repeat offenders.

If you need to get around the city quickly, take the S-Bahn .

The Ringbahn that goes all around Berlin in a circle (or as local politicians would have it "a dog's head") lets you get to other parts of the city really fast.

Regional trains (RB, RE) run along the same central east–west connection, but stopping only at Lichtenberg or Karlshorst, Ostbahnhof, Alexanderplatz, Friedrichstraße, Hauptbahnhof, Zoologischer Garten, Charlottenburg and Spandau or Wannsee, as well as other lines connecting north–south from Jungfernheide or Gesundbrunnen through Hauptbahnhof, Potsdamer Platz and Südkreuz to Lichterfelde-Ost. Between the stations in the city centre, RB and RE trains run only two to three times an hour per direction so whilst you may be arriving at your destinations faster than with the S-bahn, you may have to wait longer to catch an RB/RE train. Long distance trains mostly run to Hauptbahnhof, often with one or two extra stops at other stations and local tickets are normally not valid for trips on these stretches.

The Berlin U-Bahn (commonly understood to be short for Untergrundbahn - "underground railway") is a network of ten lines across the city. They are numbered from 1 to 9 with the prefix "U" ( U1 U2 U3 U4 U5 U6 U7 U8 U9 ). You may find the U-Bahn network slightly less logical and convenient to use than in other European capitals, as Berlin's troubled history made its mark on it and many key locations remain unconnected, which is why using buses, trams and S-Bahn to complement the U-Bahn is probably necessary for efficient travel throughout Berlin. However, as those systems are fully integrated (see above), you can do so with only one ticket or type of ticket. Generally speaking in the east trams are more widespread while the west relies more heavily on U-Bahn, but that has been slowly changing since 1990.

Despite the name "underground", some 20% of the network is actually made up of overground stretches running over characteristic viaducts throughout the city, adding a certain flavour to Berlin's cityscape. This arrangement is similar to many older subway systems which include elevated or even at-grade sections like the Hamburg system or the M2 / M6 lines in Paris . Unlike light rail systems or the Berlin tram however, all parts of the network have their own right of way and subways don't have level crossings.

Detailed maps can be found in every U-Bahn station and on the trains. U-Bahn stations can be seen from far by their big, friendly blue U signs. Together with the S-Bahn (which is administered by Deutsche Bahn and mostly runs aboveground), the U-Bahn provides a transportation network throughout greater Berlin that is extremely efficient and fast. On weekends (Friday to Sunday), and during the Christmas and New Year holidays, all U-Bahn and S-Bahn lines (except line U4) run all night, so returning from late night outings is easy, especially given the average start time of most 'parties' in Berlin (23:00 to 01:00). During the week there is no U-Bahn or S-Bahn service from c. 01:00-04:30, but metro trams/buses and special Night Buses (parallel to the U-Bahn lines) run every half an hour 12:30-04:30. The night buses which replace U-Bahn lines are conveniently named N-1 thru N-9 after their respective U-Bahn line.

There are no turnstiles to limit access to U-Bahn station platforms; it is thus physically possible to ride (but illegal) without a ticket. If one is caught by a ticket checker you will be fined €60 (see "Validating tickets" above) so it is not worth the risk to ride without carrying a valid ticket. However, it is generally not a problem to pass through the U-bahn platforms to merely get to the other side of the street.

During the day, U-Bahn trains don't run to a schedule (or rather, their schedule is used internally by the BVG only but can be gleaned by searching departures via the app) as the headways are short enough to make the distinction whether a train is the 8:45 three minutes or the 8:50 two minutes early academic. Nearly all U- and S-Bahn stations now have electronic signs that display the expected arrival of the next train (and its direction), based on sensors along the lines.

Design-wise, U-Bahn stations are about as diverse as you'd expect for a system that started operations when the Kaiser reigned and has been expanded in phases of overflowing as well as empty municipal coffers. Quite a handful of stations built before World War II were designed by the Swedish architect Alfred Grenander (died 1931) whose designs are much lauded and who included some useful features like having each station dominated by a certain color which - where it is still visible to the untrained eye - helps in quickly recognizing a station. From the mid 1960s to mid 1990s most stations built in West Berlin were designed by Rainer G. Rümmler (1929-2004) who gave each station a much more individual look compared to Grenander who preferred to vary only small details like the color of the tiles. East Berlin relied more on trams and S-Bahn and the U5 which was mostly built above ground is the only line extended by east Berlin. The only underground U-Bahn station built by east Germany is "Tierpark" along U5. There are of course other stations, designed by other architects; for the most recent U5 extension, "Museumsinsel" station was built to impress with a rather grandiose design inspired by Prussian "star architect" Karl Friedrich Schinkel, who designed many buildings in the vicinity but was unavailable for the design of U-Bahn stations as he died more than half a century before the first U-Bahn station opened in Berlin.

By tram (streetcar)

The trams (Straßenbahn) are mostly found in East Berlin, as the West Berlin tram network was shut down in the 1960s in an effort to make the city more car friendly. If you don't already have a ticket, you can buy one inside the tram. Since reunification there has been a gradual "reconquista" of areas once served by trams in West-Berlin and in some parts of Mitte it is hard to tell from trams alone where the wall used to be. In outlying districts of West Berlin, however, trams are still nowhere to be found - in stark contrast to the East, where they provide much needed access to planned bedroom communities from East German times. Tram extension in the West is frequently talked about and generally enjoys the support of the left part of the political spectrum, but unfortunately various issues, including an underfunded and overworked civil service as well as nimbyism have made turning talk into action difficult.

There are two types of tram. Metrotrams usually have a 24/7 schedule as well as higher frequencies during daytimes, although stops are more spread out. Metrotrams are marked by an "M" in front of their line number (e.g., M10). "Regular" trams stop more frequently and even incorporate picturesque single-track rides through forested areas far east of the Mitte district.

Despite being called "tram" the network has almost all characteristics of light rail and new lines are almost always built with their own right of way, making travel times faster than by bus. Even compared to some other trams in other German cities, the newest generation of Berlin trams have impressive acceleration, so take care when boarding and try to get a seat or hold onto something, especially if you're not sure on your feet.

Berlin's buses are a very important form of public transportation, as they complement the light rail systems wherever they were removed (trams in the West) or remain incomplete. Due to the heavy loads and demands of narrow streets, Berlin is one of the few cities in Europe to use double-decker buses extensively - over 400 of the 1400 buses in operation in Berlin are double-deckers. A ride in a Berlin double-decker should be on the to-do list of every first-time visitor to Berlin. However, there are a couple of important things to be aware of. The double-decker buses have two staircases - by custom you go up the front staircase and down the rear one, not the other way around. Most drivers will not wait for you to descend the stairs while the bus is at the stop - unless there is a queue of people descending the stairs you should make sure you are at the exit door when the bus pulls up. Unlike other world cities, you should not flag down buses at stops in Berlin, even if there are multiple routes serving the stop. Some drivers may consider it an insult to their professionalism. A frequent problem with buses, particularly busy lines during rush hour and especially in the West (where they have to cope with levels of patronage more common for light rail lines) is bunching. As many buses come every five minutes during busy times, the first bus will get most of the passengers, meaning the bus behind catches up, which means the second bus gets even less passengers catching up even more, until finally two or three buses come a minute apart or even at the same time and then no bus comes for 15 minutes despite a nominal 5 minute headway. BVG are rather self-deprecating about the issue but aside from building new tram lines there is very little that can be done about it. Boarding fast and getting away from the door area is the best you can do to mitigate the issue.

There are various types of buses in Berlin, each indicated separately on public transit maps:

Metro buses are meant to replace the dismantled tram lines mostly within the western part of the city (although many run into East Berlin as well to replace the severed tram connections). They are designated using the letter "M" and two digits, and are considered a separate means of transportation from the other buses, being marked orange on signage and maps just like the trams are (the orange "M" logo means "MetroBus" or MetroTram ). The MetroBuses tend to run along the main transportation corridors and are generally operated using the double-decker buses, which makes using them very attractive for tourists. MetroBuses generally run every 10 minutes from every stop they serve. Among the lines especially attractive for tourists are M19 and M29 , which run along the Kurfürstendamm and the M41 , which connects the districts of Kreuzberg and Neukölln to the main station via Potsdamer Platz.
Express bus lines connect important locations, such as airports and train stations, in a very fast fashion by skipping many stops along the way. They run every 5 minutes in the city centre using double-decker buses or articulated buses. The express lines are designated with the letter "X" and one or two digits. An express bus of particular interest to tourists is X7 from the Airport (serving both terminal 5 and terminal 1/2) to the endpoint of U-Bahn U7 at Rudow.
Two exceptions are special sightseeing lines 100 and 200 , which run from along some of the most important tourist attractions in the city centre and are operated using double-decker buses exclusively. The 100 runs from Zoologischer Garten to Alexanderplatz through the Tiergarten park, Regierungsviertel and Unter den Linden street. The 200 diverts from that route to visit the Kulturforum, Potsdamer Platz and extend further east from Alexanderplatz to Prenzlauer Berg. Either ride is a must for any visitor to Berlin. The Berlin Start-Up "City Pirates" [ dead link ] offers a free audio guide for the bus 100 that automatically plays audio information about the sights along the route via GPS localization (German and English, Android und iOS ). In the summer bus 218 takes you along the scenic ride through the Grunewald forest in West Berlin, starting at the subway station Theodor-Heuss-Platz (U2) and ending near the famous Pfaueninsel in South West Berlin, where you can take a small ferry to said island and visit the park and the small castle there.
The single-digit lines replace the metro lines in the night when the latter do not operate, stopping at the stops right atop/beside the U-Bahn stations. The numbering follows the numbering of U-Bahn lines, but uses "N" instead of "U", so that N7 is a bus line replacing the U7 U-Bahn line.
Other double-digit night lines ( N10 through N97 ) cover other routes, but without straightforward reference to daytime route numbers

There is no difference in fares between different types of buses - even the MetroBuses, the 100 and 200 demand the same fares as regular buses. Therefore, riding the city buses is a very cost-effective way of exploring the city compared to the many privately operated "hop-on/hop-off sightseeing bus tours". There are two exceptions to this rule, but they don't actually serve any point inside Berlin's city boundaries, namely "BER1" and "BER2", airport express buses to Berlin Brandenburg Airport which charge a surcharge on top of the regular BVG fare. Check the airport article for more information on them.

Berlin has no steep hills and offers many bicycle paths ( Radwege ) throughout the city (although not all are very smooth). These include 860 km of completely separate bike paths, 60 km of bike lanes on streets, 50 km of bike lanes on pavements or sidewalks, 100 km of mixed-use pedestrian-bike paths, and 70 km of combined bus-bike lanes on streets. Bicycles are a very popular method of transportation among Berlin residents, and there is almost always a certain level of bicycle traffic. The political debate in the 2010s has swung decisively in favour of cycling, with a city-wide plebiscite causing the reigning centre/left red-red-green coalition to sign into law an extensive programme in favour of more and better cycle infrastructure, which the initiators of the plebiscite have stated to monitor closely to ensure implementation. In the course of the Covid 19 Pandemic a lot of "pop-up bike lanes" have been set up throughout the city, but especially in Bezirke dominated by greens and leftists. Media coverage and public statements by politicians indicate that most "pop-up bike lanes" will stay even after the pandemic ends.

Seeing Berlin by bicycle is unquestionably a great way to get acquainted with the big tourist sites, and the little sprees and side streets as well. Probably the most famous bicycle path is the Mauerradweg , a bike path along the former Berlin wall. Although it's good to carry your own map, you can also always check your location at any U-Bahn station and many bus stations. You can create your own bicycling maps on-line , optimised by less busy routes or fewer traffic lights or your favourite paving.

Tours and rentals

Traditional rental places are widespread, especially in areas frequented by tourists. Have a look around or ask at your accommodation. Most places have a rental charge of between €8 and €12 per day – they are excellent value and give you the freedom to explore the big city.

If you are not familiar with searching your own way through the city or you want more explanation of the sights you visit, you can get guided bike tours (with bike included) on Baja Bikes or Berlin Bike .

Berlin also has a bike sharing programme, LIDL-BIKE [ dead link ] (formerly Call a Bike) making bikes available all over the town to pick up and leave anywhere you like. The bikes are grey/green and can be found across the central districts of Berlin. Follow the instructions on the bike touchscreen or use the mobile app. Rentals cost, basic annual fee of €3, then €1 for each 30 minute up to a maximum of €15 a day. You may however prefer to pay the monthly fee of €9 or a yearly fee of €49 and get the first 30 minutes of each rental for free, even right after returning your previous bike.

Bicycles on public transport

You can take your bicycle on any S- and U-Bahn, trains and trams using the designated areas. Ferries usually have space for bike but can get crowded during peak times and good weather. Buses do not take bikes with the exception of night buses N1-N9 on the nights between Sunday and Monday, and Thursday and Friday (that's when there is no night service of the U-Bahn). These buses have space for one bike. Bike space on any mode of public transport is limited and you might be refused entry. Wheelchairs and buggies have priority over bikes.

You need to purchase a ticket for your bike as well. The prices are as follows:

Single trip . Berlin AB €1.90, Berlin ABC €2.50.
Day ticket . Berlin AB €4.80, Berlin ABC €5.40.
Short trip (Kurzstrecke). Price: €1.20.

By e-hailing

Uber, Bolt and Free Now cover the city.

Taxi services are easy to use and a bit less expensive than in many other big Central European cities. You can hail a cab (the yellow light on the top shows the cab is available), or find a taxi rank ( Taxistand ). Taxi drivers are in general able to speak English. Like in other big cities, many taxi drivers are immigrants or children of immigrants so some might speak the legacy language in addition to German and English. If you ask for a short trip ( Kurzstrecke ), as long as it's under 2 km and before the taxi driver starts the meter running, the trip is normally cheaper, €4. This only applies if you flag the taxi down on the street, not if you get in at a taxi rank. Here there is a taxi price calculator for Berlin .

One word to think before driving around Berlin: don't . It is usually a bad idea to rent a car to get around Berlin. Driving around Berlin can be expensive and time consuming compared to a combination of walking and public transport, but compared to other European cities with dense old towns and narrow streets, many drivers don't find the streets of Berlin to be too stressful. If you're committed to driving within the city, remember that only low-emission vehicles displaying the green certification sticker are permitted inside the low emission zone ( Umweltzone ) , which roughly matches the area inside the Ringbahn . Rental cars from agencies in Germany should already have the sticker.

On-street parking varies by neighbourhood. Most areas within the Ringbahn charge for street parking during daytime or business hours, Monday though Saturday. Some areas charge all week long; pay attention to signage or check the online map (available in German only) . Hourly rates range from €2-4 (2023), and you can pay at an electronic meter ( Parkscheinautomat ) or on an app. Outside the managed areas, you can park for free (where space is available). Most areas of the city are within a reasonable walk or short transit ride of some free parking.

Parking garages ( Parkhaus or underground Tiefgarage ) are common in busy areas. Hourly rates are comparable to surrounding street rates, but 24-hour rates can be significantly cheaper. Deutsche Bahn provides a map with details of parking facilities near train stations and throughout the city. Note that not all hotels provide parking, but they should be able to direct guests to a Parkplatz nearby. Entrances to parking structures can be tough to find; look for the standard sign (a white "P" on a blue square). Alternatively it's possible to park your car at one of the free Park and Ride (P+R) parking lots next to S-Bahn stations outside the Ringbahn .

Despite not being a maritime city like Hamburg or Venice , Berlin does have usable waterways and the BVG run a couple of ferries, which can be accessed with regular BVG tickets. Most of the ferries are of local interest only, but the Ferry line F10 covers 4.4 km (2.7 mi) across the Wannsee and connects to the S-Bahn at one end. More of a tourist attraction than actual practical transportation is Ferry F24, which is the only ferry operated by a rowing boat in Berlin and the only rowing boat ferry that is part of any public transit ticketing system in Germany. In an effort to become a "greener" city some of the ferries run on electricity provided by solar panels on their roofs or land based charging stations.

In addition to those public transit ferries there are tour boats doing sight seeing trips mostly along the river Spree and mostly as circular tours. They are much more expensive than BVG tickets.

By gondola lift

In the course of the 2017 international gardening exhibition in Berlin/East , Berlin received its first gondola lift [ dead link ] , which stayed in operation after the exhibition closed. It links to Kienberg (Gärten der Welt) U-Bahn station along U5 at one end and has all of three stations along a line length of 1,580 m (5,180 ft) which is comparable to U55. It is not part of BVG ticketing and at €6.50 per return trip, tickets are comparatively expensive.

Berlin has numerous attractions dating from its turbulent history and in part owing to the fact that it was a "double capital" for 40 years. While the upkeep of some is an ongoing headache for the treasurer, they are a delight to visitors and many locals alike.

Most museums charge admission for people 18 years of age or older - usually €6 to €14. Discounts (usually 50%) are available for students and disabled people with identification. Children and young people can often come in free, but do check the age restrictions in particular museums. A nice offer for museum addicts is the three-day Museums Pass for €29 (concessions: €14.50) (January 2023), which grants entrance to all the regular exhibitions of the approximately 30 state-run museums and public foundations.

Most museums are closed on Mondays - notable exceptions include the Pergamon Museum , the Neues Museum and the Deutsches Historisches Museum , which are open daily. Museumsportal Berlin , a collective web initiative, offers easy access to information on all museums, memorials, castles and collections and on current and upcoming exhibitions. Some museums offer free or steeply discounted entry once a week, once a month or during certain hours of the day. This website has daily updates on free offers in Berlin.

Every first Sunday of the month, many museums in Berlin are free of charge. Sometimes a reservation is necessary in advance. For more information, see Museums Sonntag Booking .

Remains of the Berlin Wall

While the Berlin Wall has long been dismantled and much of the grounds it occupied completely redeveloped, you can still find parts of the wall preserved around Berlin. This does not refer to very small pieces of the Wall sold by the East German government immediately after its dismantling, which can be found in various cafes, restaurants and hotels not only in Berlin, but to actual preserved fragments of the Wall still standing in their original locations. For large parts of the distance the wall ran in central Berlin, pavement markers show its former location.

A 160 km (99 mi) biking and walking trail along the former Berlin Wall, the Berliner Mauerweg (Berlin Wall Trail), is well sign-posted and provides alternating sections of historic importance and natural beauty.

Private art galleries

As Berlin is a city of art, it is quite easy to find an art gallery on your way. They provide a nice opportunity to have a look at modern artists' work in a not-so-crowded environment for free. Some gallery streets with more than about a dozen galleries are Auguststraße, Linienstraße, Torstraße, Brunnenstraße (all Mitte , north of S-Bahn station Oranienburger Straße), Zimmerstraße ( Kreuzberg , U-Bahn station Kochstraße) and Fasanenstraße ( Charlottenburg ). You can find a list of all the exhibitions and gallery openings Berlin.de exhibitions .

Tall buildings with observation decks

Berlin has its fair share of tall buildings and, as the city is quite expansive and does not have one single centre where all tall buildings are located, you can enjoy a nice view from most of them, even ones that are not tall by global standards.

One of the three most important historic buildings with viewing points is the Reichstagsgebäude , the building that is home to the German Parliament in Spreebogen / Regierungsviertel ), with a spectacular glass dome, that offers a great view of Berlin. The entry to the dome is free, but you need to book your place in advance . When booking a place online, please note that you will receive up to three emails in the process: the first contains a link to creating a list of members for your group (you must click on this link to continue the process); the second contains a notice that your request has been received but not yet confirmed; the third email is the confirmation itself which you should bring (either as a printout or on your phone) on the day of your visit along with government-issued photo ID (i.e. passports for foreigners).

The viewing point that is located in a different district is the Funkturm ( Radio Tower ) in Westend . It is a 150 m tall lattice tower with open-air observation deck 124 m above ground.

The only free viewing point is the one on the Reichstagsgebäude, the others range between €3-13.

The conspicuous pink and blue pipes that you see around Berlin are to carry groundwater from construction sites into the Spree river (or canals), and are used because the water table in Berlin is close to the surface (it is built on sandy, marshy ground). The pink ones are by Pollems , while blue ones are by Brechtel or BL Wasserbau .

Pick up a copy of Exberliner , the English-language paper targeting expats and guests of Berlin to find out what's on, when and where. It provides good quality journalism and up-to-date listings. If you understand German, the activity planners for the city, zitty and tip , are available at every kiosk. LGBT+/Queer themed magazine and guide Siegessäule is also one of the most prominent of its kind internationally. Be prepared to choose among a huge number of options.

Go on a tour of Berlin. The Mitte and surrounding districts are sufficiently compact to allow a number of excellent walking tours through its history-filled streets. You'll see amazing things you would otherwise miss. Details are usually available from the reception desks of hostels and hotels.

52.5066 13.3328 1 Berlin Tour by public bus line 100 and 200 . The 100 and 200 bus lines are just ordinary bus lines, but they pass by many of Berlin's famous landmarks. Both run every 5–10 minutes between S+U-station Zoologischer Garten and S+U-station Alexanderplatz. All BVG tickets are accepted. €3.00 single or €8.80 day ticket . ( updated Jan 2023 )
Original Berlin Walks . English speaking public tour operator since 1993. They offer daily half-day walking tours of the center as well as tours focusing on WW2, the Berlin Wall, Potsdam and others. €20 per adult.
Bunker tour (self guided) . Berlin still has many bunkers from WWII spread all over the city — some are falling apart, some are used as venue and others can be visited on a private/paid tour (e.g. near Gesundbrunnen). Many are still in very good state, often covered with lots of Graffiti. They often blend into the city's architecture and are barely noticeable between regular buildings, but only when looking twice. If you want to explore some of these buildings, head over to OpenStreetMap (export), or use an app like OsmAnd and search for bunker . ( updated Sep 2020 )
Stern und Kreisschiffahrt . By far the biggest boat company in Berlin. They offer tours on most lakes.
Berlin Bootsverleih . Offers the largest variety of rental boats that you can drive yourself. Houseboats and large party boats can also be rented here.
Segway Tour Berlin . 3 hours . Offers different Segway Sightseeing Tours in Berlin. Start near Brandenburger Tor, for small groups up to 10 people. €75 .
Ticket B . Showing the city of Berlin on hand-picked architectural routes. Led by architects in German, English, French, Italian or Spanish. Tours from the water, on land or in a helicopter are offered. They arrange your special tour on contemporary architecture in Berlin with many exclusive visits to the interiors of buildings.
Private Tours of Berlin . Offers private, customized tours through Berlin, led by local historians.
Yachtcharter Werder . Offers the possibility of a long-term stay on the waterways of Berlin and the surrounding federal state Brandenburg.

Outdoor recreation

Berlin has many great parks which are very popular in the summer. Green Berlin operates some of them.

Berlin's largest park is Großer Tiergarten (in Berlin/Mitte ). In the summer and on weekends you will see loads of families with their barbecues.

There are a few notable parks in Berlin/East Central . Superb panoramic views across south Berlin can be had in Viktoriapark in Kreuzberg. You'll also find a national monument by Schinkel on top of it. Mauerpark is famous for the Bearpit Karaoke taking place every second Sunday in summer, and for the large flea market. It's also a popular barbecuing spot. Görlitzer Park has barbecue area, a football ground and a minigolf company.

Adjacent to Charlottenburg Palace in Berlin/City West is Schlossgarten Charlottenburg . The green areas of the park are free, so you can go there to have a walk even if you are not interested in the palace.

A bit further afield with subway access in Berlin/East are the Gärten der Welt (World's Garden). Inside you can find a large, well-established Chinese garden, a Korean garden, a small Bali's Garden/Glasshouse, an Oriental Garden with nice fountains and a cloister and a Japanese garden which is a project by the city partnership of Berlin and Tokyo. Best time for a visit is in spring or summer. A bit further afield in the opposite direction, in Berlin/Steglitz-Zehlendorf , is the Botanischer Garten und Botanisches Museum Berlin-Dahlem (Botanical Garden and Botanical Museum Berlin-Dahlem).

The large Treptower Park in Berlin/Treptow-Köpenick next to the Spree is nice and clean. It's famous for the Insel der Jugend (Isle of Youth) and its numerous boat rentals and boat trips.

Berlin also has quite a few lakes and beaches suitable for swimming. They quite often have one paid area with facilities, and frequent unmanaged places with free access. Some have designated areas for nude bathing (FKK). Wannsee in Berlin/Steglitz-Zehlendorf is called Berlin's "bath tub". The Strandbad Wannsee is the most famous bathing area for locals. Take the S-Bahn lines S1 or S7 to the station Nikolassee and follow the crowd! In the southeast of Berlin in Berlin/Treptow-Köpenick , you'll find the Müggelsee which is a popular swimming spot.

Festivals and annual events

Ultraschall Berlin - Festival für neue Musik . In January . An annual festival begun in 1999 that is dedicated to new music featuring both world premieres and music by recent composers. Concerts take place in different venues across the city and are performed by small ensembles up to big orchestras. ( updated Jan 2018 )
MaerzMusik . In March . A festival with contemporary music and performances on issues of our time, organised by Berliner Festspiele. ( updated Mar 2019 )
52.501693 13.445761 3 Open Air Gallery Oberbaumbrücke , Oberbaumbrücke between Kreuzberg and Friedrichshain ( in Berlin/East Central , just under the bridge Oberbaum ). June: 10:00-22:00 . Artists are selling their works, amateur tango dancers are giving public performances and you can contribute to a collaborative painting on a very long canvas spread on the street along the festival. Free .
Fête de la Musique ( Worldwide Music Day ). June 21 every year . All kinds of music around the city on this day coordinating with a similar day in most French cities.
Lange Nacht der Museen ( Long Night of Museums ), ☏ +49 30 24749888 . End of August . A large cultural event with many museums (around 80) open until 02:00 and extra events around the city. Adults €18, concessions €12, under 12 free. Ticket includes unlimited use of the shuttle bus service and public transportation (BVG and S-Bahn). If you buy in advance the tickets are cheaper . ( updated Aug 2018 )
Doors Open Day of the Federal Government ( Tag der offenen Tür der Bundesregierung ). Last weekend in August . For one weekend, the federal government organises doors open days where most of the Federal Ministries and other governmental institutions can be accessed. Parts of the German Chancellery are also accessible, where the current chancellor will usually show up. Free transport between the locations is provided. There are security checks and they advise to avoid bringing larger objects (such as suitcases). Bring an official ID with you. Free . ( updated Aug 2018 )
Musikfest Berlin . End of August . A large classical music festival marking the beginning of the season. For about 2 weeks there are concerts in many of Berlin's music venues. Renowned international and German orchestras perform. Organised by Berliner Festspiele . ( updated Aug 2018 )
Karneval . In late February or early March . As a lot of people in Berlin originally came from the southern or western area of Germany where Fasching , Fastnacht or Karneval is celebrated, a carnival parade was also established in Berlin. It grew bigger and bigger (about 500,000 to 1 million people watching), but the costumes and cars are rather boring and the people are not as dressed up as in the "original" big carnival parades ( Cologne , Mainz , Düsseldorf ). Since 2007 the traditional route across Kurfürstendamm was chosen. People from Berlin themselves don't care a bit about Karneval; this is mostly an event for people coming from the regions of Germany that have a Karneval. In fact, most Berliners will be laughing at you if you mention that you went to Karneval — it isn't a Berlin tradition, but a post-1990 institution.
Christopher Street Day . Late July . Berlin's gay pride. A well-known annual political demonstration for the rights of the gay culture organised in all major German cities. Even if you are indifferent about the issue, the Christopher Street Day is usually a worthwhile sight as many participants show up in wild costumes.

Cultural venues

Berlin is arguably the live cultural centre of Germany. As it had the cultural infrastructure of two major capitals during partition, there are theatres, operas and universities galore. These are a drag on the empty municipal coffers and lead to complaints by people from other parts of Germany about subsidies, but they help keep one of the most vibrant cultural scenes in Europe alive.

A comprehensive platform that lists cultural events is offered by Berlin Bühnen on behalf of about 80 venues. Berlin's notable cultural institutions for performed arts, both classical and modern, can mostly be found in Mitte and City West . Even if you aren't going to see a play or concert, many of the venues are architecturally impressive and as such attractions in themselves.

On the theatre side, the "grand old" title might go to Deutsches Theater , a classical theatre with an impressive line up of actors and directors. Overall, however, famous theatres in Berlin tend to have a more modern character. The reputation of Berlin theaters that they go further in challenging the norms of the art form and are bolder in experimentation than those in smaller cities dates back at least to the 1920s when names like Bert Brecht created an entirely new theater-going experience. While this approach was cut tragically short by the Nazis, it is now vibrant again as it was a century ago. Theaters with a modern approach include the Berliner Ensemble , the Maxim Gorki Theater , the sometimes controversial Volksbühne am Rosa Luxemburg Platz [ dead link ] , the Schaubühne am Lehniner Platz as well as the Theater am Kurfürstendamm with TV celebrities in modern plays. The city also has an English theatre in East Central Berlin , if you prefer performances in English. Some theatre venues are known for their musicals: the historical Theater des Westens , the Theater am Potsdamer Platz , and the Friedrichstadt-Palast , which focuses on revue type shows and offers Berlin's biggest show with over 100 artists on the biggest theatre stage in the world.

Fans of opera have several places to choose from. The main classical opera houses are Deutsche Oper , and Staatsoper Unter den Linden whose impressive building and royal history make the building alone worth a visit. For more modern operas, head to Komische Oper Berlin , Schiller Theater or Neuköllner Oper , voted several times best off-opera house and known for its modern and contemporary pieces. Mostly in German as usually relating to developments in Germany, and very creative and innovative.

Berliner Philharmoniker is a large concert hall designed by Hans Scharoun and home of the Berlin Philharmonic Orchestra . Famous building and outstanding musicians. Reservations are recommended, but cheaper tickets are usually available 2–4 hr before the concert if not sold out. Every Tuesday (September to June) 13:00-14:00 free lunch concert; come early. In the winter, late-night concerts (22:30 or 23:00) are a bargain and often have more avant-garde or unconventional formats. The adjacent Kammermusiksaal (Chamber Music Hall) was added later and hosts smaller concerts. Other places to enjoy classical music include Konzerthaus Berlin and Hochschule für Musik Hanns Eisler (HfM) . The HfM ( Berlin Academy of Music ) offers many concerts by their students and other professional musicians, most of them are free.

There are about a hundred cinemas in Berlin, although most of them only show movies dubbed in German, without subtitles. Listed below are some of the more important cinemas also showing movies in the original language (look for the OmU - "original with subtitles" - notation). Most movies which are dubbed into German are released a bit later in Germany. Tickets are normally €5-7. Monday to Wednesday are special cinema days with reduced admission.

There are three notable cinemas in Kreuzberg in Berlin/East Central within close proximity. Babylon Kreuzberg , a small cinema built in the 1950s, which shows non-mainstream movies. Kino Moviemento which is the oldest cinema in Germany (1907). In Berlin/Mitte near Hackesche Höfe there is Kino Central , a repertory cinema located in an ex-squat, and Filmtheater Hackesche Höfe showing a very broad range of movies. Kant Kino in Berlin/City West is one of the few old cinemas (founded 1912) left in Berlin's western city. It shows mostly non-mainstream European movies.

In Berlin, nearly all sports are on offer; some speculate that the lukewarm support Hertha enjoys even in times of success is due to the huge offer of other sports (similar to how Los Angeles failed to maintain an NFL team due to the diverse cultural offerings):

Football: Berlin has two professional soccer teams.
Berlin Handball has had a hard time competing with the north German powerhouses but these days the Füchse Berlin from Reinickendorf who play their home games in Max Schmeling Halle are a force to be reckoned with.
52.50577 13.443156 4 Basketball . Alba Berlin, known as The Albatross are consistently among the best basketball teams in Germany, and one of the best in Europe. Their erstwhile dominance of the German league has been challenged by the upstart Bayern Munich basketball division flush with cash from the soccer division of the same club. Expect a fierce atmosphere and a packed hall for games against Munich or their traditional rival Bamberg. With fans crazier than most in the NBA, Albatross games at the o2 World arena are an exciting way to take in one of the world's greatest sports.
Public swimming pools . Can be found around the city. Check out BBB for pool listings and opening times.
Sailing , on one of the many lakes is also popular. You can find sailing clubs and most universities have ships as well.
Golf . You can find golf clubs all around Berlin, although for non-members Motzen has one of the best.
52.50577 13.443156 5 Ice hockey . The Berlin Eisbären (Polar Bears) play this fast, exciting and very physical sport during the winter. The excitement is heightened by the singing and chanting of the crowds, who are fueled by the copious quantities of wurst and beer available.
Floorball , is booming faster than ever before in the German capital. A sum of teams defines the cascade of the local floorball scene, whereas the decorated Bundesliga site of BAT Berlin probably embodies the most prominent one.
American Football . The Berlin Adler (Eagles) have historically been Berlin's No. 1 team but are now playing in the German Football League 2 after being relegated in 2017. They are one of the oldest and most storied teams in Germany being a founding member of the first American Football season in 1979. Having fallen to the second division means they don't get to play either their crosstown rivals or their fiercest other rival, the Dresden Monarchs. The Berlin Rebels have since taken the mantle of "best GFL team in Berlin" and usually land in the middle of the pack of the GFL1 north but haven't penetrated deep into the playoffs thus far. Finally there is Berlin Thunder, a new addition created in 2021 for the new "European League of Football" who are named after the old NFL Europe team of bygone days. Whether they can sustain fan enthusiasm with their lackluster on-field performance remains to be seen. American Football in Germany is a very relaxed and family friendly affair and you can definitely show up in any NFL, German or no Football gear at all and have a chat with fans of either side.
52.513991 13.231921 6 Australian Football . The Berlin Crocodiles host regular matches in the summer.

The German capital naturally has some good options for learning the language:

52.52477 13.40622 1 Goethe-Institut Berlin , Neue Schönhauser Str. 20 , ☏ +49 30 259063 , [email protected] . Learn the German language with a variety of courses of different durations. Certificates from this institute are globally recognised as the standard for German language ability. Should you wish to settle or work long term in Germany, a certificate of German language proficiency by the Goethe Institute may be required and it'll certainly make things easier.

The current economic climate is relatively stable but to find work in Berlin is not easy. A sound level of German improves your chance as only a few multinational companies are present in Berlin. Any kind of skills (especially language) that separates you from the masses will definitely improve your chances for a job. Berlin has a lower GDP per capita than the German average, but slowly but surely new startups founded in Berlin are becoming bigger and bigger players and some companies have decided to open representative headquarters in Berlin following reunification - most notably Siemens, a company founded and intimately linked with Berlin that had most of its production and even de facto headquarters in Erlangen and Munich during partition but is to reoccupy "Siemensstadt" (a part of Berlin/Spandau ) with a railway line built in the 1920s to serve Siemens to be reactivated.

If you have an academic background then teaching English (Spanish, French and Latin are good, too) or private tutoring (e.g. math) for pupils is always a possibility as Berlin is a young city and education is in strong demand. Otherwise working in a bar might be an option but it'll be tough, because wages are low and big tips are uncommon. Chances are much better when big trade fairs (e.g. "Grüne Woche", bread & butter or ITB) or conventions take place so apply at temp and trade fair agencies. The hospitality industry and call centres are constantly hiring but wages are very low unless you can offer special skills (such as exotic languages) or background.

Berlin has a growing media, modelling and TV/movie industry. For daily soaps, telenovelas and movies most companies from time to time look for people with something specific. Apply at the bigger casting and acting agencies.

For English-language jobs, if might be worth checking out the classified ads of this monthly magazine for English-speakers, Exberliner .

Shopping areas

The main shopping areas are:

Ku'Damm and its extension Tauentzienstraße in Berlin/City West remain the main shopping streets even now that the Wall has come down. KaDeWe (Kaufhaus des Westens) at Wittenbergplatz is a must visit just for the vast food department on the 6th floor. It's reputedly the biggest department store in Continental Europe and still has an old world charm, with very helpful and friendly staff.
Schloßstraße in Steglitz ( Berlin/Steglitz-Zehlendorf ) with the shopping centre Schloss-Straßen-Center, Forum Steglitz, Karstadt, Boulevard Berlin, Naturkaufhaus and Das Schloss, between the subway stations U9 Walther-Schreiber-Platz and U9+S1 Rathaus Steglitz.
Friedrichstraße in Berlin/Mitte is the upmarket shopping street in former East Berlin with Galeries Lafayette and the other Quartiers (204 to 207) as main areas to be impressed with wealthy shoppers.
Alexanderplatz in Berlin/Mitte . The renovated Galeria Kaufhof department store is worth a visit. For alternative souvenirs go to ausberlin .

The main shopping area for the alternative, but still wealthy crowd is north of Hackescher Markt in Berlin/Mitte , especially around the Hackesche Höfe.

For some more affordable but still very fashionable shopping there is Prenzlauer Berg, Kreuzberg and Friedrichshain in Berlin/East Central with a lot of young designers opening shops, but also lots of record stores and design shops. Constant change makes it hard to recommend a place, but the area around station Eberswalder Straße in Prenzlauer Berg, around Bergmannstraße and Oranienstraße in Kreuzberg and around Boxhagener Platz in Friedrichshain are always great when it comes to shopping.

For souvenirs, have a look just in front of the Kaiser Wilhelm Gedächtniskirche ( Berlin/City West ); these shops sell almost the same items as others, but are cheaper. However, not all members of staff speak English. You can also get cheap postcards there (from €0.30 while the average price for normal postcard is €0.50-0.80).

There are four market halls selling fresh produce and ready-to-eat food. Marheinecke Markthalle and Markthalle Neun are both in Kreuzberg ( Berlin/East Central ), Arminiusmarkthalle is in Moabit ( Berlin/City West ), and Markthalle Tegel is in Tegel ( Berlin/Reinickendorf and Spandau ).

You can find dozens of flea markets with different themes in Berlin (mostly on weekends), but worth checking out is the big one at Straße des 17. Juni ( between Ernst-Reuter-Haus and S-Bahn: Tiergarten ). Two other flea markets are at Mauerpark in Prenzlauer Berg ( Berlin/East Central ) and at Arkonaplatz ( Berlin/Mitte ), which is close to Mauerpark. Both are on Sundays, so you can combine visiting them.

Opening hours

Shopping hours are theoretically unlimited on weekdays. Nevertheless, many of the smaller shops still close at 20:00. Most of the bigger stores and nearly all of the malls are open until 21:00 or 22:00 from Thursday to Saturday.

Sunday opening is still limited to about a dozen weekends per year, although some supermarkets in train stations (Hauptbahnhof, Bahnhof Zoologischer Garten (under the S-Bahn bridge), Friedrichstraße, Innsbrucker Platz (U4 in the underground) and Ostbahnhof) are open on Sundays.

Many bakeries and small food stores (called Spätkauf or colloquially "Späti") are open late at night and on Sundays in more gentrified neighbourhoods (especially Prenzlauer Berg, Kreuzberg and Friedrichshain). Stores inside the Hauptbahnhof (central station) have long working hours (usually until about 22:00-23:00), also on Sundays.

Credit cards

Although credit card and VISA/Mastercard-branded debit card acceptance is becoming more common, many stores still take only cash. Most places in tourist zones will accept credit cards, but it is still a good idea to ask in advance if you intend to pay with one. Many restaurants require a minimum check amount, sometimes in excess of €30.

For Americans, Germany uses the chip-and-pin system so you may have trouble at places like unattended gas stations and automated ticket machines. Often, a cashier will be able to swipe the magnetic strip, but don't be surprised if someone refuses your credit card because it doesn't have a chip. If possible, contact your card issuer before leaving home to see if they can replace your existing card with one that has a chip.

Lovers of street food rejoice! Berlin has an incredibly wide variety of different styles and tastes at very affordable prices (for European wallets, that is). You can find superb food in small stalls tucked away under the tracks of elevated U-Bahn stretches for well under five euros.

A staple in Berlin is currywurst for around €3 (April 2022). It's a bratwurst covered in ketchup and curry powder. You can find them all over Berlin by street vendors. It's a must try when in Berlin. Two renowned currywurst stands are "Konnopke's Imbiss" below Eberswalder Straße U-Bahn station on line 2 and "Curry 36" opposite the Mehringdamm U-Bahn station in Kreuzberg (only two stops south of Checkpoint Charlie). Both of these offer far friendlier service than many of Berlin's more upmarket eateries.

Another famous thing to eat in Berlin is döner for around €6 (April 2023), a flat bread filled with lamb or chicken meat and vegetables, available at many Turkish stands.

Berlin may seem like carnivore heaven, but vegetarians and vegans can eat quite well. Berliners are generally environmentally conscious, and that extends to their food; most of the inner neighbourhoods have a handful of good healthy vegetarian or vegan restaurants using local ingredients, though they tend to be more expensive than the ubiquitous kebab and sausage stands. If you're a vegetarian on a limited budget, many kebab restaurants have a good selection of roasted vegetables and salads, and you can usually get falafels (fried chickpea balls, suitable for vegans) and halloumi (a type of dense cheese) in place of meat.

Eating out in Berlin is incredibly inexpensive compared to any other Western European capital or other German cities. The city is multicultural and many cultures' cuisines are represented here somewhere, although they are often modified to suit German tastes.

All prices must include VAT by law. Only upmarket restaurants may ask for a further service surcharge . It is best to ask if credit cards are accepted before you sit down—it's not that common to accept credit cards and cash is preferred. Most likely to be accepted are Visa and MasterCard; all other cards will only be accepted in some upmarket restaurants. European debit cards are not always accepted because due to debit card fraud, some processing companies stopped intra-European cards from specific countries. This does not apply to debit cards that are from German banks. Better have cash or ask the restaurant staff.

One of the main tourist areas for eating out is Hackescher Markt/Oranienburger Straße . This area has dramatically changed during the years: once full of squats and not-entirely-legal bars and restaurants, it had some real character. It is rapidly being developed and corporatised, and even the most famous squat - the former Jewish-owned proto-shopping mall "Tacheles" - has had a bit of a facelift. There are still some gems in the side streets, though, The "Assel" (Woodlouse) on Oranienburger Straße, furnished with DDR-era furniture, is still relatively authentic and worth a visit, especially on a warm summer night. Oranienburger Straße is also an area where prostitutes line up at night, but don't be put off by this. The area is actually very safe since several administrative and religious buildings are located here.

For cheap and good food (especially from Turkey and the Middle East) you should try Kreuzberg and Neukölln with their abundance of Indian, pizza and Döner Kebap restaurants. Prices start from €4-6 for a kebab or Turkish pizza (different from the original Italian recipe and ingredients). If you are looking for a quick meal you could try getting off at Görlitzer Bahnhof or Schlesisches Tor on the U1 line - the area is filled with inexpensive, quality restaurants.

Kastanienallee is a good choice too - but again not what it used to be since the developers moved in (much less exploited than Hackescher Markt, though). It's a popular area with artists and students and has a certain Bohemian charm. Try Imbiss W, at the corner of Zionskirchstraße and Kastanienallee, where they serve superb Indian fusion food, mostly vegetarian, at the hands of artist-chef Gordon W. Further. Up the street is the Prater Garten, Berlin's oldest beer garden and an excellent place in the summer.

All restaurant information is in the corresponding borough articles of

Kreuzberg & Friedrichshain – Young and independent student area with a big Turkish community in Kreuzberg, slowly but surely gentrifying.
City West – Heart of West Berlin with good quality restaurants.
Mitte – Political and new centre of East Berlin with upmarket restaurants.
Schöneberg – City slickers and street cafe atmosphere.
Prenzlauer Berg – Buzzing Prenzlberg and its lively student scene.

Waiters and tipping

Except at very high-end restaurants, nobody will seat you . If you see an open table, just sit down. You may need to go get a menu yourself from another table or a pile near the cash register. If you sit outside, expect slightly slower service.

As in most European countries, you need to tell the waiter when you want to pay and leave. The waiter will come to you usually with a money purse, and the custom in Germany is to tell the waiter how much you're paying (including the tip) when you receive the bill — don't leave the money on the table. If there is confusion with the tip, remember to ask for your change, Wechselgeld (money back).

Add a 5-10% tip (or round up to the next Euro) to the bill if you are satisfied with the service. If you received shoddy service or are otherwise unsatisfied it is perfectly acceptable to not tip at all - waiters and waitresses have the same hourly minimum wage any other job has, so they don't depend on tips as the biggest part of their salary like in the US.

It is very common to go out for breakfast or brunch (long breakfast and lunch, all you can eat buffet, usually from 10:00-16:00, for €4-12 - sometimes including coffee, tea or juice). See the district pages of Berlin/City West#Breakfast and Berlin/East Central#Eat .

A word of warning: Berlin's famous laissez-faire attitude is perhaps most evident in its approach to indoor smoking. Although smoking is prohibited in all but the smallest bars, you should assume that everywhere you go out, if no food is being served, will be quite smoky. This is also the case at clubs and large concert venues. If you have any medical issues, then you should be prepared, and either change your plans or bring a well-fitting mask. If not sure, call the venue and ask.

The club scene in Berlin is one of the biggest and most progressive in Europe. Even though there are some 200 clubs in the city, it's sometimes difficult to find the right club for you since the best ones are a bit off the beaten track and most bouncers will keep bigger tourist groups out. If you want to go clubbing, you will almost always have to pay an entrance fee. While admission to clubs was considered cheap for many years after the fall of the Berlin Wall compared to other German and European cities, the cover charge is €20 and more in the 2020s (usually no drink included).

The main clubbing districts are in the east: Mitte (around Alexanderplatz and Köpenicker Straße), Friedrichshain (the "techno strip" along the Spree river), and Kreuzberg (around Schlesisches Tor). In once legendary Prenzlauer Berg almost all clubs have disappeared due to gentrification since the 2000s, while it still has many trendy bars and cafés. A few mainstream clubs are also located in Charlottenburg and at Potsdamer Platz. Techno is still the biggest sound in Berlin, with lots of progressive DJs and live acts around. But there are also many clubs playing '60s beat, alternative rock and of course mainstream music. Clubbing days are Thursday, Friday and especially Saturday, but some clubs are open every day of the week. On weekends partying in Berlin starts between 22:00 and midnight and peaks around 02:00 or 03:00 in many clubs. Berlin is known for its long parties, some going on until Sunday evening, a few also until Monday evening. In regard to electronic music, you can check Resident Advisor for the best parties before you go out.

Berliners -especially young Berliners- love cocktails. People like to meet their friends at a cocktail bar before going clubbing. Prenzlauer Berg (Around U-Bahnhof Eberswalder Str., Helmholtzplatz, Oderberger Straße and Kastanienallee), Kreuzberg (Bergmannstraße, Oranienstraße and the area around Görlitzer Park and U-Bahnhof Schlesisches Tor), Schöneberg (Goltzstraße, Nollendorfplatz, Motzstraße for gays), and Friedrichshain (Simon-Dach-Straße and around Boxhagener Platz) are the main areas.

Some bars charge a small refundable deposit for glasses - you are given a token with your drink to return (with your glass) to the bar.

At Warschauer Straße (which you can reach via S-Bahn and U-Bahn station Warschauer Straße ) and more specifically Simon-Dach-Straße and around Boxhagener Platz you can find a wide variety of bars. It is common for locals to meet at Warschauer to go to a bar there. Also Ostkreuz ("Eastcross") and Frankfurter Allee are well known meeting points. Especially to visit the alternative ("underground-/left-szene") locations in houseprojects (so called squats), like the Supamolly at Jessnerstreet (Traveplatz), the Scharni38 (Scharnweberstreet) and so on, or clubs on the R.A.W. compound at Revaler Straße.

There are lots of Irish bars all over the city, as there are in all European cities. If you like off-the-shelf Irish bars or watching football in English then you won't be disappointed, but in a city with new cool bars opening pretty much daily and a huge range from which to choose, you'll find that these cater mostly to the Irish construction workers and Germans attracted by Irish music, which is often played in them. The Irish pub in the Europa Center at Tauentzienstraße is famous. Located in the basement of a skyscraper, you will find a big Irish pub and a rowdy crowd on the weekend. It also claims to have the longest bar in all of Berlin!

There aren't as many illegal bars as there were in the 1990s but bars open and close faster than you can keep up - check out the bar and cocktail guides in the bi-weekly magazines Tip or Zitty. For recommended bars, have a look at the district pages.

There are well over 1000 rock concerts a year in Berlin. You can find concerts in the big known locations but there are also many interesting little venues. You can find a good overview of the current concerts on the Ma Baker concert page [ dead link ] . Every day the concerts are updated and displayed there.

A Brauhaus (brewery) brews and sells its own beer on the premises. There is usually a public viewing area onto the brewery. Try Gaffel Haus [ dead link ] , Brauhaus Georgbraeu [ dead link ] , Brauhaus Mitte [ dead link ] , Brauhaus Spandau and Brauhaus Lemke [ dead link ] .

Cafe Einstein is one particular example of a home grown coffee chain which has nice staff, great coffee and is fairly priced. In particular, the Einstein on Unter den Linden is as far from "junk coffee" as it's possible to be.

If you want to get some tap water, ask for " Leitungswasser " (if you just say "water" ( Wasser ), you will receive mineral water.) This is common if you drink coffee. They should not charge you for it but you should order another drink as well.

Street drinking

Kiosks (off licences) can be found all over the city and sell bottled beers and other drinks. A kiosk will generally have a bottle opener on the counter and it is permitted to drink alcohol in the street. A refundable deposit of 8 to 25 cents per container (Pfand) is charged on plastic and glass bottles.

Berlin is still witnessing a construction boom of hotels and offices since the end of the Cold War. The boom leads to a significant oversupply of hotels which results in comparatively cheap prices even in the 5 star category (off-season prices of €110 per night are not unusual). Especially for a short visit, it may be best to stay at a place in Berlin-Mitte (around Friedrichstraße), as most of the main sights are located there. Due to its history most hotels in Berlin are still located in the City West (i.e. Charlottenburg-Wilmersdorf), especially close to Zoo station. Alexanderplatz and Anhalter Bahnhof have clusters of 2-3 star budget hotels (i.e. Ibis, Motel One). You'll find only budget hotels (Motel One and Meininger) located directly at the new main train station but some large constructions are in progress. The (oddly named) budget hotel chain 'Motel-One' operates various 2-star hotels in the city centre. There are also many 3-4 star 'NH Hotels' offering good value. All major hotel chains are present in Berlin. A good idea to check that the hotel is close to public transport (U-Bahn or S-Bahn) to avoid too long walks.

Cheapest are youth hostels (called Jugendherbergen, only for members) and hostels (similar to youth hostels, but for everyone, mostly backpackers stay here, usually in one to 32-bed rooms). You will also find bed and breakfast offers (often private) and boarding houses (Pension, more familiar and smaller than hotels). The majority of private flats on platforms like AirBnB are offered illegally in Berlin and contribute to the ongoing housing crisis. Try to choose your accommodation responsibly!

Check the district pages for individual accommodation listings. Popular hotel districts include:

Mitte - mostly high-end hotels in the main tourist areas and some cheap hotels and hostels on the outskirts
Charlottenburg-Wilmersdorf - the largest number of mid-range and upscale hotels can be found here, mostly grouped around the Zoologischer Garten railway station and the Ku'damm
Prenzlauer Berg - here you will find many independent small hotels, hostels and guesthouses in the relaxed atmosphere of this district
Friedrichshain-Kreuzberg - the centre of alternative life in Berlin offers many suitably-themed accommodation opportunities, mostly hostels and guesthouses

You may find accommodation at reasonable prices in almost any district of Berlin, but be mindful of the time it may take to get from that place to where you want to visit, as Berlin is a very large city.

You can find internet cafes and telephone shops all around Berlin. Do a bit of research with the telephone shops because most focus on a particular region in the world. Many bars, restaurants and cafes offer their guests free wi-fi. Customers of the ubiquitous Einstein Coffee get 30 minutes of free wifi. Metro (U-Bahn) stations offer free wi-fi to everybody: BVG Wi-Fi .

The mobile network (3G/GPRS/GSM) covers the whole city. If you are coming from a non-GSM country (e.g. the United States) check your mobile phone for GSM compatibility. United States carrier Verizon, for example, will advertise phones that work on GSM networks as "World Devices." In general, however, any iPhone model from iPhone 6s onwards will support both CDMA and GSM, and will work perfectly in Berlin.

A free wireless network covers parts of Berlin, but requires special software on your computer. More information including maps of Berlin with coverage is available online .

Berlin might be a safe place, but it is a huge city, and as such has some not-so-well maintained areas. No specific rules apply with the exception of public transportation and tourist areas where pickpockets are a problem. Watch your bags during rush hours, at larger train stations (with the central, Warschauer, and Revaler stations being notoriously sketchy at night).

The police in Berlin are competent, not corrupt; therefore, if you try to bribe them you are likely to spend at least a night behind bars to check your background. They are generally helpful to tourists. Most of the officers are able to speak English, so don't hesitate to approach them if you are frightened or lost. Police are generally more relaxed than in more conservative places like Munich and do not necessarily engage in a "zero tolerance" policy (but even then blatantly smoking a joint in front of police will land you in trouble even in Berlin). In general police will focus on crime and traffic safety rather than petty misdemeanors or drunken tourists unless things get out of hand.

The nationwide emergency numbers are

Medical emergencies and fires , ☏ 112 .
Police emergency number , ☏ 110 .

Since the 1980s, there have been localised riots on Labour Day (May 1). In general they take place in Kreuzberg around Oranienstraße/Mariannenplatz. Nowadays they usually start the night before May 1, especially in the Mauerpark (Prenzlauer Berg), at Boxhagener Platz and in Rigaer Str. (Friedrichshain) and start again in the evening of May 1 in Kreuzberg and in the mentioned areas. The violent riots have become rather small since 2005 due to the engagement of the citizens who celebrate the Labour Day with a nice "myfest" in Kreuzberg and well-planned police efforts. It is still better to stay out of these areas from 20:00 until sunrise. Vehicles should not be parked in these area as this is asking for damage!

Racially-motivated violence is rare but the risk is higher on the outskirts of East Berlin. It is recommended for non-white tourists to be attentive in areas such as Lichtenberg, Hellersdorf, Marzahn, Treptow and Köpenick in the evening/night especially if alone.

In the bordering neighbourhood of the districts Neukölln and Kreuzberg (between Hermannplatz, Schönleinstraße to Kottbusser Tor) and Wedding (Moabit and Gesundbrunnen) the risk of falling victim to robberies and assaults is higher. Tourists should visit these areas with some caution during the night as a mixture of drunken party people and poor neighbourhoods might lead to trouble.

National media and conservative politicians like to make a huge story out of certain well known drug dealing hot spots. Areas such as Görlitzer Park are well known for all sorts of illicit substances being on offer, but if you don't sell or buy this shouldn't preoccupy you. Despite media portrayals to the contrary, police do frequently raid those places and try to catch drug dealers, but only a small handful are usually caught as they have developed certain measures to evade capture. Organized criminality does exist, but in general they try to focus on less violent activity in Germany and hardly ever target outsiders.

Although harmless, panhandlers have started to beg at local tourist spots such as Pariser Platz next to the Brandenburg Gate, Alexanderplatz and the Museuminsel. They are usually women accompanied by their daughters who ask if you speak English and say that they are from the new EU countries and trying to raise money to fly home. The story is false, so don't give them money, which would encourage further exploitation of the women and their kids. They also have a new tactic where they hand you a card telling their "story" and asking for money; beware that the children that they carry in their arms will search through your bags while you are reading the card. The best way to avoid this is simply to ignore them and not to respond when they ask you "Speak English?" If you feel scared, don't hesitate to contact the police, as they will help.

Near Checkpoint Charlie, you will see people setting up booths offering to stamp your passport with souvenir stamps in exchange for a small fee. You are highly advised not to let them stamp your passport, as these are not official government stamps and could invalidate your passport. If you want the stamps, bring along an expired passport, or a small booklet like a novelty passport.

Prostitution

Prostitution is a legal business in Germany . Berlin has no major red-light district though some big brothels have been built. Berlin has no restricted areas for prostitutes (called a "Sperrbezirk" in German) so the "apartments" or brothels are spread throughout the whole city. Oranienburger Straße in Mitte is infamous for its prostitutes at night. These women are a tourist attraction and the ladies focus only on tourists to request exorbitant prices.

The proximity to Eastern Europe, relaxed visa rules, and the illegal migrant community increase the number of prostitutes. Advertisements are in the tabloids and online. Human trafficking and illegal immigration is a problem; therefore, police raids do take place and close down illegal operations. Brothels and prostitutes must register just like any other businesses, or they will be prosecuted for tax evasion. In general, police officers are not interested in the clients (especially if you stay calm and don't try to argue) but you must have a photo ID (a photocopy of your passport is fine) with you. Otherwise, you might spend a night at the police station while your background gets checked.

Stay healthy

Berlin is home to Charité, perhaps one of the world's most famous hospitals, former workplace of medicine legends like Robert Koch, Rudolf Virchow, Emil von Behring or Emil Fischer and current place of employment of Christian Drosten, a world renowned expert on Coronaviruses.

Berlin has a large number of public libraries throughout the city. One of the largest is the Amerika-Gedenkbibliothek ( America Memorial Library ) on Blücherplatz 1.

Some people from Berlin would ask you why you would ever want to leave, but there are a couple of nice places in close proximity—some even within reach of the Berlin S-Bahn. Outside a thin ring of suburbs (compared to most other European metropolises), Brandenburg is mostly rural so a short drive will get you right into picturesque nature. Berliners call this area "JWD" (pronounced yott vay day ), short for "janz weit draußen", that is "in the back of beyond". Brandenburg and Berlin cooperate in many facets of regional planning and the boundary between the two is not always easy to make out. Part of that cooperation is a plan to (in theory) focus development along a "star-shaped" net of rail lines heading towards Berlin.

The motorway Raststätte Grunewald at the S-Bahn station Nikolassee is a good spot for hitching if you're heading south or west.

Potsdam (35 km) — the capital of the surrounding federal state of Brandenburg, not far southwest of Berlin, and makes a perfect day trip. Especially the park of Sanssouci, a world heritage site with its great famous palaces, is worth a visit. You can get there with the S-Bahn S7 or Regional-Express RE1 to the station Potsdam Hauptbahnhof or Park Sanssouci (fare zone C). It takes about half an hour from Berlin Hauptbahnhof or Friedrichstraße.
Oranienburg (35 km) — a quiet suburb housing the remains of KZ Sachsenhausen , one of the few preserved Nazi concentration camps on German soil. There's also a small palace in the centre of Oranienburg. Half an hour by RE train.
Spreewald (c. 85 km) — a protected UNESCO biosphere reserve. It includes low-lying areas in which the river Spree meanders in thousands of small waterways through meadows and forests. It is a beautiful, unique landscape about one hour south of Berlin and well worth a day trip or a weekend trip to relax from the buzzing city life.
Frankfurt an der Oder (100 km) — on the Polish border, with many international students, is within easy reach. Just over an hour by RE train (half-hourly service).
Lutherstadt Wittenberg (110 km) — about 40 minutes southeast of Berlin by ICE. Schlosskirche was the church where Martin Luther nailed his theses to the church door, starting the Protestant Reformation . Across the street from there is a visitor's centre with great information. Great city to tour and one can easily explore on foot.
Müritz Lake Region ( Mecklenburgische Seenplatte ; c. 145 km) — a national park to the north with a few hundred lakes. Perfect for camping and canoeing close to nature.
Leipzig (190 km) — East Germany's most vibrant and fastest-groing city, known for its creative cultural scene, sometimes pretentiously called the "New Berlin", but still a lot smaller and more relaxed than the capital; 1:15 hours by train to the south.
Dresden (190 km) — the former royal capital of Saxony with its Baroque palaces, churches and precious art treasures; two hours by train or car to the south. Intense competition on the Dresden-Berlin route means a bus ticket (2.5 to 3 hours) can be had for as little as five Euros.
The beautiful Baltic seashore (e.g. Usedom , Stralsund and Rügen ) is close enough for a day or weekend trip by car (2.5 to 3 hours) or train (nearly three hours to Stralsund; 3–3:45 h to Usedom).
Hamburg (290 km) — the second-largest city in Germany, is less than 2 hours away by ICE; the IRE takes a bit longer (3 hr) but the special offer of €19.90 one way (available at all times) is hard to beat and it's still faster than the bus.
' Lusatian Lake District and Central German Lake District about as far to the south as the Baltic is to the north - former lignite pits turned into artificial lakes

The Polish border is just some 90 km to the east of Berlin, therefore it might be interesting to do a trip:

Szczecin (Stettin; 150 km) — about two and a half hours by train.
Poznań (Posen; 270 km) — three hours by train.

Berlin has ultra-low-cost flights to many European countries, to Morocco , Georgia and Israel . (updated April 2022)

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Berlin Travel Guide

In the past 30 years, Berlin has evolved from a city divided between East and West to a unified melting pot of art, food, nightlife, and politics. From ramshackle flea markets, historic murals, and thought-provoking museums to pounding techno parties, hidden jazz clubs, and no-frills beer halls, you could spend an entire month here and still just scratch the surface. Our advice? Keep an open mind and embrace everything the world capital of cool throws at you. Just don’t ask us for help impressing the bouncers at Berghain.

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3 days in Berlin

Don't miss any top sights

You are planning your first trip to Berlin and don’t want to miss out on any of the highlights in this exciting city? Our 72-hour tour will take you to the most famous landmarks in Berlin and to its most beautiful places. Be guided through a sightseeing tour of Mitte, go shopping on Kurfürstendamm and in City West, and experience neighbourhood life in the districts of Kreuzberg and Friedrichshain. With our 72-hour programme, you won’t miss out on any top sights during your first visit to Berlin.

Day 1 in Mitte: from Alexanderplatz to the Brandenburg Gate

Morning: alexanderplatz & nikolaiviertel.

Start your first day in Berlin at the World Clock at Alexanderplatz . Let the surrounding buildings take you back in time to the GDR of the 1970s, watch the lively goings-on as people pass by and look up across the S-Bahn railway tracks at the TV Tower , the first highlight on the tour. From the top you have a phenomenal panoramic view of the city - at a reduced rate with the Berlin WelcomeCard , by the way. Enjoy the view over breakfast or brunch at the restaurant sphere , which rotates on its own axis at a height of more than 200 metres.

Tickets for the TV Tower

You can continue the tour westwards, past the Rotes Rathaus (red town hall), where the Berlin mayor’s office is. Berlin’s oldest district, the Nikolaiviertel , awaits your visit by the Spree. You can stroll around the picturesque neighbourhood surrounding St. Nicholas’ Church . A bit further downstream of the river on the other side you’ll find the Berlin Cathedral with its gigantic dome – one of Berlin’s landmarks and something you most definitely should not miss.

Museum Island is not only a top Berlin attraction for art lovers. This ensemble consists of five museums that are on UNESCO’s list of world heritage sites . The Altes Museum , the Neues Museum , the Pergamon Museum , the Bode Museum and the Alte Nationalgalerie together form one of the most important museum complexes in the world, and you have free entrance to them with the Berlin WelcomeCard . Unfortunately, the Pergamon Museum is closed for extensive renovation work.

Buy your Berlin Welcome Card Museum Island

Afternoon: Humboldt Forum, Gendarmenmarkt, Holocaust Memorial and Brandenburg gate

Back on the magnificent boulevard Unter den Linden , you should visit Berlin's new forum for culture, art and science just opposite the Museum Island: The Humboldt Forum . Over Bebelplatz and St. Hedwig’s Cathedral which is a little hidden behind the Staatsoper Unter den Linden (Berlin State Opera), the journey continues with a short detour to Gendarmenmarkt , surely the most beautiful square in Berlin. Enjoy the harmonious ensemble of the concert house in the centre, flanked by the German and French cathedrals, from one of the many restaurants and cafés around the square.

Charlottenstraße on the western side of the square and then Behrenstraße going westwards will now lead you past the Komische Oper to the Memorial to the Murdered Jews of Europe , which is also known as the Holocaust Memorial . Walk through the memorial with its 2,711 concrete pillars and take in its contemplative atmosphere.

Rose on the Memorial to the Murdered Jews of Europe in Berlin Mitte

From here it’s just a few metres down Ebertstraße before you’ll find yourself in front of the most famous landmark of Berlin, the Brandenburg Gate . Few buildings are as closely connected with the history of Berlin as the former city gate is. After the fall of the Berlin Wall it became a symbol of German unity. Following a short walk around Pariser Platz the tour continues through the gate onto the Platz des 18. März . Now you’ll be able to recognise the Siegessäule (Victory Column) in the distance, in the centre of the large Tiergarten park.

The next highlight of our tour is also a truly historic place. The Reichstag , the seat of the Deutscher Bundestag (German parliament), has not only had an eventful history since the Reichstag fire in 1933.

At night: Enjoy the nightlife around Hackescher Markt

To finish off the tour we recommend either a drink at Capital Beach , directly on the riverbank of the Spreebogenpark with a view of the main railway station – or a beer at Zollpackhof on the other side of the Spree. From there you can also comfortably reach Hackescher Markt , where you can spend the evening at any one of the numerous restaurants, cafés and bars.

Day 2 in City West: Between Charlottenburg Palace and the Gedächtniskirche

Morning: charlottenburg palace.

Begin your second day like royalty, with a stroll around Charlottenburg Palace . Initially constructed as a summer palace, today it is the most splendid palace in Berlin, with extensive gardens. Located directly by the Spree, you’ll feel like you’ve been transported back in time to the rococo period and the days of the Prussian kingdom as you stroll through the park.

Use our Day Ticket Charlottenburg+ for Charlottenburg Palace and all facilities in the Charlottenburg Palace Gardens.

Combi-Ticket Charlottenburg+

You can also visit the Käthe Kollwitz Museum in the theatre building of the palace complex.

Walkers in the summery park of Charlottenburg Palace

Afternoon: Ku'damm & Zoo

A short ride from there on the U7 metro will take you directly to Adenauerplatz in the middle of the legendary Kurfürstendamm – the most famous shopping street in Berlin. Here you can peruse the latest designer fashions or simply marvel at the impressive building façades during your walk along the boulevard. The next highlight is waiting for you at the end of the Ku’damm: the Kaiser-Wilhelm-Gedächtniskirche (Memorial Church) on Breitscheidplatz. The ensemble consists of the ruins of the church destroyed in the war and a new building next to it. It is a monument for peace and reconciliation and a symbol of Berliners’ will to rebuild in the post-war period.

Today the church is encircled by several tall buildings such as the Upper West , the Zoofenster and the Europa Center, the oldest shopping centre in Berlin. You can reach Kaufhaus des Westens at Wittenbergplatz in just a few minutes via the adjacent Tauentzienstraße. KaDeWe is the most famous department store in Germany. Ansbacher Straße and Kurfürstenstraße will take you to Olof-Palme-Platz. And here waiting for you at the end of the tour are two more highlights: Zoologischer Garte n and the Aquarium Berlin , that you can gain reduced admission to with the Berlin WelcomeCard .

At night: Enjoy the nightlife of the City West

You can round off the day right next door, at the Monkey Bar in the 25hours Hotel Bikini Berlin. The cocktail bar with panoramic windows offers you a breathtaking view over Tiergarten and City West. Alternatively, you can retreat to the Schleusenkrug on warm summer evenings, a cosy beer garden directly on the Landwehr Canal in Tiergarten.

Day 3 in Kreuzberg-Friedrichshain: Berlin Wall and neighbourhoods

Morning: along the river spree to the east side gallery.

Enjoy an easy-going start on the third day with a late brunch the way the Berliners love them. Things taste even better when there is a view to match. So check out one of the many cafés by the Landwehr Canal or the Neuköllner Schifffahrtskanal (Neukölln Ship Canal). Afterwards, you can stroll along the Spree River by the canal. There are unique gems in the way of restaurants, bars and clubs awaiting your visit. Freischwimmer , Club der Visionäre, Badeschiff and IPSE are just four of the locations on the island that form a summertime bar biotope on the left and right of the Flutgraben channel.

Schlesische Straße and Falckensteinstraße then lead you to Oberbaumbrücke . From here you have one of the most beautiful views of Berlin in both directions – towards Alexanderplatz with the TV Tower and out of the city with the Molecule Men in the Spree.

Just around the corner from Oberbaumbrücke you’ll find the East Side Gallery stretching out before you. The longest connected piece of the former Berlin Wall is covered with many different and amazing artworks. The most famous painting is the brotherly kiss between Honecker and Brezhnev. And there are plenty more historic events depicted along the 1.3 km open air gallery.

More neighbourhood tips

You can find detailed information about all the districts, neighbourhoods and other secret tips in our Going Local app , that you can download for free at Google Play and in the Apple App Store. Also included: tours and videos. Download now .

You would like to stay a few days longer in Berlin or have less time?

Then let yourself be inspired by our suggestions for 24 hours in Berlin , for 48 hours or for a five-day stay !

Our tip for you: explore the city with the Berlin Welcome Card

We recommend the Berlin Welcome Card – Berlin’s official tourist ticket. The Berlin Welcome Card has over 200 sights and attractions as discount partners. It is also your ticket for public transport services across the entire city – and if you prefer, also includes Potsdam

Info about the Berlin Welcome Card

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The 5 Best Berlin Guided Tours [2024 Reviews]

Berlin may be known for its world-class techno and fashion scenes, but we can’t ignore its history marked by espionage, art, and rebellion.

It’s one of my favorite cities in the world – not for its opulence nor white sand beaches like some other European cities – but for being a living testament to resilience and reinvention. I’ve been to Berlin many times, but taking these tours opened my eyes to just how little I knew about this incredible place.

These top Berlin guided tours will surely change your perspective and appreciate the capital even more, taking you from the graffiti-covered remnants of the Wall to the intricate palaces and churches. Let’s get started!

Best Guided Tours of Berlin

Quick answer: the 5 best rated berlin private guided tours for 2024.

Private Berlin Complete History All Day Tour
The History of Berlin: WWII PRIVATE Walking Tour With Locals
Berlin Bike Tour
Private Tour: Berlin by Trabant Stretch-Limousine
Private Walking Tour: World War 2 and Cold War Sites in Berlin

Berlin Guided Tour Reviews

1. private berlin complete history all day tour.

Duration: 6.5 hours
Departure: Ebertstraße 24, 10117 Berlin
Departure Time: Between 9:00 AM and 2:00 PM
Includes: Expert tour guide

Starting things off on the right foot, we have the most comprehensive of the tours. Lasting 6.5 hours, it’s perfect to jump right into the deep end of Berlin’s history and really get a lay of the land.

The Private Berlin Complete History All Day Tour is jam-packed not only with sights surrounding WWI and WWII, but plenty of sights that are far from the regular stops on most tours.

So you have plenty of time during the day, your tour will start out with you meeting your guide in the center of Berlin. As this is a private tour, you don’t have to worry about following a pack of people around or not being able to ask the guide any questions.

On the contrary, I found our guide to be super attentive and offer our feedback as to anything specific we’d be interested in seeing or learning more about.

While the order in which you see the landmarks may change, but typically you’ll start out with seeing the Brandenburg Gate and learn what important events happened there as well as how it came to be in the first place.

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You’ll also get to see Museum Island, which sits right on the river and features 5 absolutely beautiful Prussian-style buildings containing different museums.

Of course, Checkpoint Charlie is a must, where you’ll see and learn about firsthand how difficult it was to be able to cross over to the other side of Berlin.

No tour of Berlin is complete without visiting the East Side Gallery, which is what’s left of the Berlin Wall and now features illuminating paintings that are expressive and oftentimes political.

While those are very popular tourist sites, you’ll also get to see lesser-known landmarks like ghost stations, the Soviet War Memorial, and much more. If you’re looking for a way to learn beyond the Wall and WWII, this is definitely the tour for you!

Tour Information & Booking

100% refund for cancellations within 24 hours of tour experience, 2. the history of berlin: wwii private walking tour with locals.

Duration: 4 hours
Departure: Oranienburger Str. 36, 10117 Berlin
Departure Time: Between 9:00 AM and 5:00 PM
Includes: Private guide

Taking a guided tour should be so much more than just checking off landmarks and being read a cookie-cutter script anyone could look up. This tour will take you through the complex, passionate soul of Berlin where you’ll get to see the scars of history firsthand.

The History of Berlin: WWII Private Walking Tour with Locals is one of the most educational and fascinating I’ve experienced, and it’s one history buffs shouldn’t miss!

You’ll meet your guide for a customized tour that starts at the New Synagogue where you’ll learn about Berlin’s Jewish community and enjoy its striking Moorish architecture.

Take a walk over to the Palace of Tears, where the Iron Curtain once held a grip over countless divided families. The guide does a fantastic job at explaining the Cold War and the differences between the Russian-occupied East and Allied-occupied West.

Come up to the massive Brandenburg Gate, where you’ll have time to take photos, followed by the somber Holocaust Memorial located just a short stroll away. This chilling expanse gives you the opportunity to reflect on Berlin’s darkest hours while learning about the Holocaust.

Another nearby site is where Hitler’s Bunker is located – while it’s underground and completely sealed, it’s still quite an impactful experience to see the area in person.

The UNESCO-listed Museum Island is a treasure trove of culture and artifacts, but the buildings they’re housed in are reason alone to explore the area. After this, you can choose to dive deeper into the Reichstag, Checkpoint Charlie, or even Wilhelmstrasse and beyond.

The guide is there to help customize the experience according to you and your party’s interests, so it’s all down to what you want!

3. Berlin Bike Tour

Departure: Panoramastraße 1a, 10178 Berlin
Departure Time: 10:00 AM
Includes: Beach cruiser bike, helmet

Undoubtedly one of the best ways to see Berlin is by bike, maximizing what you’re able to see in the span of a tour. The Berlin Bike Tour is a great way to get some fresh air, a bit of exercise, and of course, learn all about the history of this unique capital metropolis!

You’ll get to see and learn all about the infamous Berlin Wall, Checkpoint Charlie, Brandenburg Gate, plus plenty of “hidden gems” that will only enrich the experience further.

First off, I should mention that you get the choice to select either a half or full-day bike tour of Berlin. The full-day tour clocks in at nearly 7 hours (with plenty of breaks in between), while the half-day is about 2 to 3 hours.

If it’s your first time in Berlin and want to get to know the city quickly, I highly recommend the bike tour that takes you all over!

On your 2-wheeled expedition, you’ll first stop at the Berlin Wall Memorial, which is a real-life reminder of a brutally divided city and offers the chance for you to touch one of the last sections of the notorious wall that was put up overnight without warning.

Head over to where Hitler’s Bunker sits (sealed off from the public) and learn about the theories surrounding the things that happened there. Checkpoint Charlie was a stop that honestly wasn’t that visually captivating to me, but the history behind it was still very interesting to learn about.

After, check out the impressive Brandenburg Gate, as well as the Reichstag, which is the center of German politics and sits looking over the beautiful Spree River with a nice, tree-lined respite from the crowds.

Take a well-deserved break at a biergarten where you’ll get to sip a cold one in the open air, or even grab a pretzel or my favorite: currywurst. After refueling, you’ll then see Museum Island, Potsdamer Platz, and the Gendarmenmarkt.

4. Private Tour: Berlin by Trabant Stretch-Limousine

Duration: 2.5 hours
Departure: Hotel pickup and drop-off included
Departure Time: Check with tour operator
Includes: Light refreshments, private guide and transportation

Who says tours have to take place on foot or on a bus?! The Private Tour: Berlin by Trabant Stretch-Limousine is perfect if you have a packed schedule but would still like to get to see most of Berlin.

It’s the shortest tour on this guide, making it ideal if you don’t have a ton of time in the day for a longer alternative. If you’d like to see Berlin from the lap of luxury, look no further than this excursion where you’ll be picked right up from your hotel – no need to deal with meeting places.

Your guide will pick you up in a comfortable stretch “Trabant” limo, which not only is unique to this part of the world but comes with tons of room for you and your party. This is a completely private tour, so it will really just be you and the rest of your party – no strangers and no massive groups.

Your guide is there to regale you with historical accounts of each area as you pass by important landmarks like Checkpoint Charlie, the Berlin TV Tower (and Alexanderplatz in general), Museum Island, the Berlin Wall, Brandenburg Gate, Potsdamer Platz, Gendarmenmarkt, The Holocaust Memorial, and much more.

If you have any questions, feel free to ask the guide, as they’re quite personable and seem to know just about everything about Berlin’s history.

The limo comes with large windows with no obstruction of view, so it’s easy to see each site without getting out of the vehicle.

While at many points, the subject matter is obviously very somber and serious, the guide still made the experience quite fun and educational for us. They’ll let you stop at many of the sites for photos and if you’d like some time to walk around, it doesn’t seem to be an issue.

Don’t forget a delicious stop for some traditional currywurst, if you and your group feel like it!

5. Private Walking Tour: World War 2 and Cold War Sites in Berlin

Departure Time: Between 8:00 AM and 4:30 PM
Includes: Professional guide

If you or anyone else in your group is a history buff or would simply like to learn more about the wartime history of Berlin, this is the best tour for you.

The Private Walking Tour: World War 2 and Cold War Sites in Berlin is perfect if you have an afternoon or morning free for venturing around – there are 2 different options available regarding start times.

Keep in mind that while this tour will cover some of the most famous tourist sites, this is focused largely on the two wars’ sites and how they relate to history.

Just like most others on this guide, this excursion is also completely customized and tailored to you and your private party’s interests. Feel free to ask any questions or add feedback, and the guide will apply it to the tour.

Start out by meeting in your hotel lobby for a quick meet-and-greet before you get started on your journey through time, stepping into a history book!

The order of events may change depending on where your hotel is located, but usually the tour starts out with a visit to the Reichstag Building, which obviously played a huge role in WWII.

You’ll learn about those, like Claus von Stauffenberg, who literally risked their lives to oppose the regime, as well as the struggle from Stalingrad. The Brandenburg Gate is next, where you’ll also get to take photos before heading over to the Wall, the Holocaust Memorial, and Hitler’s Bunker.

I enjoyed seeing Prenzlauer Berg which is where you’ll see an old NKVD (KGB) prison which was later used by the Stasi (East German secret police), and learn how they got info from their prisoners.

The Topography of Terror was also quite interesting, located literally in the building where the SS, Gestapo, and SD kept their headquarters while the Nazis ruled. After this, you’ll have time to walk around the old Nazi airport closeby which I didn’t even know existed!

Tour Guides

The Private Berlin Complete History All Day Tour is our Editors Choice for the best Berlin guided tour

Robert Baker

Related articles, the 5 best stonehenge tours from london [2024 reviews], the 5 best florence wine tours [2024 reviews], the 7 best vatican tours ⛪ [2024 reviews], the 5 best seine river dinner cruises [2024 reviews].

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Essential travel guide to berlin, germany [updated 2024].

Berlin is a city that holds a certain mystery, due to its interesting history that forever changed the world. Between its storied past and its modern present day, Berlin is a great place to visit.

If you’re planning a trip to Berlin, we’ve got you covered with our essential travel guide to Berlin, which includes what to do, see and eat in the city, along with an informative and helpful infographic that will give you a quick peek at all the top things you should plan to do in Berlin.

» You might be interested in these 13 Popular German Foods You Must Try.

Do keep in mind that Berlin is a very popular tourist destination, so hotels, tours and activities fill up quickly. It pays to plan ahead for your visit to Berlin, by booking your hotel, figuring out transportation, and deciding on what you’d like to do. This 3-day Berlin itinerary is the perfect guide. For more information on traveling through Germany check out this 7-day Germany itinerary.

If your plans take you to other parts of Europe, check out our how to plan a trip to Europe guide.

↓ Click to jump down to the bottom to see the infographic.

The right luggage can make or break your trip. These hard-sided suitcases come in 2 sizes, with spinner wheels and TSA-approved lock.
Renting a car? The Rentalcars.com app lets you search and compare offers. Don’t forget to check if you need an International Drivers License.

Table of Contents

What Are the Top Things to Do in Berlin?

There are walking tours of the city that will help you understand its history, as well as foodie things to do (don’t miss Markthalle Neun on Thursdays)!

With so many great things to do in Berlin, you really need to set up a good itinerary before you leave, to make sure you can fit everything in. You can pre-book some of the activities listed in our shortcut travel guide to Berlin (below) on Viator . (Note: These are affiliate links for which we may receive a small commission.)

Berlin Half-Day Walking Tour – this tour lasts 3.5 hours and gives a great overview of the city and its history, while visiting the Brandenburg Gate, the Reichstag, the Holocaust Memorial, Checkpoint Charlie and the Topography of Terror.
Private Walking Tour: World War 2 and Cold War Sites in Berlin – If you’re a history buff, you’ll enjoy this private 4-hour historical walking tour.
Berlin Neighbourhood Food Tour: Classic Bites and Culinary Trends – You can’t miss the opportunity to do a food tour in Berlin to try some of the most classic foods from the city, like Currywurst, Austrian Dumplings, and handmade falafel. The tour is 3.5 hours long and includes many food and drink samples.
Sachsenhausen Concentration Camp Memorial Tour – On this 6-hour tour, you can visit and learn more about Sachsenhausen, one of the first concentration camps established by Nazi Germany’s Third Reich. It leaves at 10am from the train station.

Where is the Best Place to Stay in Berlin?

Of course, the prices are much higher in the center of Mitte, so if you’re looking for affordable luxury at a slightly lower rate, check the areas just on the fringe of Mitte, especially to the west, near the park.

A great choices in the affordable luxury range in the center of Mitte is the Hilton . It’s right in the center of the Mitte area, and the closest hotel to everything.

We enjoyed staying at the COSMO Hotel (newly opened Design Hotel) to the southeast. The Radisson Blu to the northeast and the Grand Hyatt to the southwest are also good choices.

Hilton Berlin ⇒ Read reviews on Trip Advisor | Book a stay
The Grand Hyatt ⇒ Read reviews on Trip Advisor | Book a stay
COSMO ⇒ Read reviews on Trip Advisor | Book a stay
Radisson Blu read reviews on Trip Advisor | Book a stay

How Long Should You Spend in Berlin?

Most travelers spend from 2-3 days in Berlin. If you’re short on time, or combining Berlin with other Germany destinations, then that’s plenty of time to see the main attractions and get a feel for the city.

The main sights most visitors wish to see are within close proximity to each other in Mitte. You can expect to do a lot of walking, but it’s also easy to get from sight to sight on the tram or metro. If you want to take side trips outside of Berlin, to the concentration camps for instance, you’ll need more time.

When is the Best Time to Visit?

Berlin is a fun and vibrant city that is always alive with activity. The nicer weather leads to many outdoor festivals and beer gardens. The winter brings out the Christmas market stalls and Gluhwein drinking while strolling through the festive streets. I wouldn’t really say there’s a bad time to visit Berlin. It all depends on what season you like best and what activities you are hoping to do.

What To Eat in Berlin

You might be expecting the typical German foods in Berlin, but schnitzel isn’t the only thing on the menu in this melting pot of a city. There is a great international food influence in Berlin that leads to a lot of fusion. If you’re lucky enough to be in Berlin on a Thursday, be sure to check out all the street-food vendors at Markthalle Neun . It opens at 5pm and features dozens of food options.

Currywurst – Even before I spent any time in Berlin, I knew about the Currywurst. It’s Bratwurst served with curry powder and ketchup, plus generally a side of fries. It’s one of the most popular street food dishes in Berlin.

Schnitzel – It wouldn’t be Germany unless schnitzel was on the menu. It’s a huge piece of breaded, fried pork cutlet, typically served with potatoes.

Berliner Pfannkuche – Yes, it’s a Berlin pancake, but it’s really more like a donut without a hole. It often comes stuffed with jam and dusted with powdered sugar.

Falafel & Doner – Just about as popular as the currywurst is the falafel and doner in Berlin. It’s a great snack, even if it’s not particularly German, and you can find it everywhere.

Food Tours You May Enjoy:

Berlin Evening Food Tour
Kreuzberg and Neukölln Walking Food Tour in Berlin

Essential Travel Guide to Berlin

Frequently Asked Questions

The top things to do in Berlin are seeing the Brandenburg Gate, the Reichstag Building, visiting Museum island – which houses a cathedral and art museum, admiring the Berliner Philharmonic building, the spire with its viewing platform, and Checkpoint Charlie. There are walking tours of the city that will help you understand its history, as well as foodie things to do (don’t miss Markthalle Neun on Thursdays)!

The best locations for tourists in Berlin is right in the center of the city, called Mitte. From here, you’ll be in easy walking distance of all the top sights and you won’t need to take public transportation unless you want to head further outside the main areas. Of course, the prices are much higher in the center of Mitte, so if you’re looking for affordable luxury at a slightly lower rate, check the areas just on the fringe of Mitte, especially to the west, near the park.

Quick. Check these necessities off your prep list!

There’s no one-size-fits-all travel insurance . Get a personalized quote from Yonder .
The right luggage can make or break your trip. These luggage sets make traveling a breeze.
Find your rental car on DiscoverCars.com . They search all major rental companies to find the best deal.

No matter how much time you spend in Berlin – from just a few days to a full month – you’ll be able to discover fascinating parts of the city you would never believe existed. We hope this travel guide to Berlin helps you easily plan your trip.

We’re happy to help answer your questions, if you need help planning.

Be Prepared For Travel Planning is the most important part of any successful trip. Do it the easy way:

🧳 Travel Packing List | ✔️ Why You Need Travel Insurance | ✈️ What to Do Before You Leave Home

Find and book the best hotel (our favorite booking site is Expedia)
Research flight options (our favorite tool is Skyscanner )
Book a tour (we always use Viator to find the best tours)
Rent a car through Discover Cars (they search the best deals for you!)

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Laura Lynch, creator and writer of Savored Journeys, is an avid world traveler, certified wine expert, and international food specialist. She has written about travel and food for over 20 years and has visited over 75 countries. Her work has been published in numerous guidebooks, websites, and magazines.

1 thoughts on “ Essential Travel Guide to Berlin, Germany [Updated 2024] ”

This sounds like a perfect travel guide for Berlin! Would love to visit!

Welcome to Berlin!

Berlin is a unique city filled with fascinating history, delicious food, quirky vibes, and much more.

I’ve lived in Berlin since 2015, and I want to show you what this amazing city has to offer on this Berlin travel blog and travel planning guide.

From the iconic sights to the lesser known gems, you can find everything you need to plan a trip to Berlin right here .

Where To Stay

What To Pack

Getting Around

Beyond Berlin: Day Trips & Germany Travel

Seasonal Berlin

What To Eat & Drink

Featured: seasonal berlin.

What to Wear in Berlin in Summer: A Packing List for Summer in Berlin

41 Fun Things to do in Summer in Berlin

15 Best Beer Gardens in Berlin

25 Fun Outdoor Activities in Berlin

Berlin Marathon Guide: Tips for a Marathon Trip to Berlin

13 Best Things to do in Berlin in Autumn

Berlin testimonials: screenshots from Facebook that say things about how helpful the Berlin Travel Tips website, FB group, and emails were for various people. The exact text says: "What readers are saying: Ali, your top tips and general info was absolutely priceless when planning our recent first trip to Berlin. No matter what questions we came up with you had already addressed in your many articles/blogs or covered here [in the FB group]. Can’t thank you enough! The effort you have put in is just amazing. Not only beforehand, but even when we were in Berlin, we’d say to each other, “just ask Ali” which meant have a look at your website etc as we were bound to find what we were looking for. Written in such an accessible way. Great stuff. --K Ali, your daily emails are fantastic, I literally can not wait to get to Berlin now. --L This group was so helpful in helping me plan a good mix of sightseeing and Christmas Markets. Huge thanks to Ali, the info on here and on your website was amazing. Your step by step video on how to get from the airport made it so easy for us to get the train to where our hotel was. --E

Berlin Christmas Markets Itinerary: How to Combine Markets & Sightseeing

What to do in Berlin on Monday: 25+ Museums & More

What to do in Berlin on Sunday: 15+ Ideas

Who’s behind berlin travel tips.

They even bought an apartment in Berlin in 2021 – Berlin is definitely home now!

Ali’s goal is to show you everything you need to know for enjoying a trip to Berlin. Learn more here!

Ali is originally from the US, but she’s been living in Germany since 2011.

In 2015, she and her husband moved to Berlin where they now live with their small dog. They even bought an apartment in Berlin in 2021 – Berlin is definitely home now!

Things To Do On Your First Trip To Berlin

With just a few days in Berlin, here are a few tips on what to see and do, great tours to book, plus some of my favourite places to eat in the city!

As you’ll have seen in my recent blog, I’ve just got back from Berlin! I was there for four days and spent one of them exploring the IGA Berlin 2017 – the huge garden show that’s on until October. It was my first time in the city and I was REALLY excited to see and do as much as possible.

The history of Berlin is complex, but one I’d recommend reading up on. It’s multi-layered and obviously has very dark patches, but despite not being a history buff, I enjoyed learning what the city had been through. As I explored on foot, I felt like the city made more sense to me.

While I did some research on where to go, I also let myself explore, you know… get lost! The result? Some great places to eat, views, and spots to recommend to you guys.

How To Travel Around Berlin

Hurrah, a city with a great transport network! I used Google Maps to navigate the city, and other than not always being sure which side of the road I needed to catch the tram from, it was an easy experience. The U Bahn (subway system is really simple to understand, and trains come regularly (every few mins in peak times). There are trams and buses too.

The part I found strange was that you don’t show tickets very often or pass through barriers to enter public transport. I’ve heard that people buy tickets as there are strong penalties if you’re caught without – so just don’t risk it!

I’d recommend picking up a Berlin City Pass . Along with discounts at many attractions in the city, it also covers your public transport for the duration of your trip. It also includes travel to and from the airport. I ordered mine in advance, printed it at home, and used it right from the start of my trip from Berlin Airport.

Berlin City Sights

There’s SO much to see and do in Berlin, and at times it feels so big (particularly with there not being just one centre). As mentioned, the transport system is excellent, so you really can see a lot, even if you only have a short time.

Head to the Reichstag and Brandenburg Gate. If you apply in advance you can visit the beautiful dome of the Reichstag (find out how here ). The Monument To The Murdered Jews is so moving, and a walk through the towering columns is something I’d urge anyone to experience as part of their trip.

Museum Island is another must-see and I also loved exploring the many courtyards of Hackesche Höfe . Tucked away, this really is one of the city’s hidden gems! Close by is a street covered in murals and graffiti, just next to the Anne Frank Museum.

To be honest, I love just how walkable Berlin is. If you’re on a budget, I’d recommend taking yourself on a free walking tour of Berlin Mitte , which allows you to check out the key sights in your own time.

Visit The East Side Gallery

Over 100 Artists from all over the world were invited to paint murals on the remaining section of the Berlin Wall in 1990. It’s now a brightly-coloured, outdoor gallery and while most are a direct comment on the political state of the world when the wall came down, some seem as relevant today as they did back then.

Take your time looking at each mural – they have so many incredible details, and are worth more than the photo-and-go that the coach loads of tourists do.

Check latest prices and availability for the Cold War Tour of Berlin including a visit to the East Side Gallery

Mauerpark Fleamarket

After my time in the city, I’d say this Sunday market is so quintessentially Berlin! There are hundreds of stalls selling everything from vintage clothes and antiques, to handmade jewellery and the most random of nic-nacs. There’s also a huge street food section with plenty of great smells to lure you in!

Then in the park area you’ll find performers, street artists and the legendary Sunday karaoke (which draws huge crowds!) It was one of my highlights of my time in Berlin.

Berliner Fernsehturm

Berlin’s tallest building offers the best (and most central) views of the city. Once in the lift, you’ll venture upwards at speeds of 6m per second to the observation deck – a height of 203m.

Top tip – check out their offers . When I visited they were running a fast view ticket, with coffee and cake served in Sphere Restaurant for just 20.50 EUR. Considering a fast view ticket on its own is 19.50 EUR, it’s a great deal, but it only runs between 2-4pm on weekdays.

Check latest prices and availability for a trip up the Berliner Fernsehturm (TV Tower)

Bite Berlin Food Tour

I am a strong believer that you learn a lot about a place by eating your way around it… so for me, the way to learn about the best things to eat in Germany is by taking a food tour. The tour I took with Sam from Bite Berlin came highly recommended and was excellent.

She showed us the best place for currywurst, took us to her favourite Vietnamese restaurant and then for tasty cinnamon buns. I learned plenty about the history and culture of the city too, and rolled back to my hotel full and ready for a nap!

Check latest prices and availability for the Bite Berlin Food Tour

Withlocals Urban Jungle Tour

This was another great tour, showcasing the gritty, urban, alternative side to the city. Betty from Withlocals showed me some of the city’s best street art and took me to parts of the city I’d never have found on my own. We even popped along to Berlin’s smallest disco.

Check latest prices and availability for the Urban Jungle Alternative Tour Of Berlin

Exploring the street art of Berlin on a tour with With Locals.

If you have a few more days in Berlin, here are a few other tour suggestions to check out…

Berlin Segway Tour – Segway tours are so much fun, and a great way to cover a lot of ground when time is limited. On this segway tour of Berlin you’ll see the Brandenburg Gate, Berlin Cathedral, Museum Island, Reichstag, Gendarmenmarkt and the East Side Gallery, while hearing stories about the city’s complex history.

Check latest prices and availability for a segway tour of Berlin

Segway tour around Stuart, Martin County, Florida

Evening Berlin Food Tour by Bike – Nothing like burning a few calories on two wheels to justify eating more on your holiday! This tour takes you around the vibrant neighbourhood of Prenzlauer Berg with stops at some of the best restaurants in the area.

Check latest prices and availability for the Berlin food tour by bike

Berlin lunch cruise OR Berlin dinner cruise – A cruise along the River Spree is a great way to soak up the history of the city, while snapping some beautiful photos. Even better with a nice meal to tuck into! I love taking boat trips, so I’ll definitely check one of these cruises out next time I’m in Berlin!

Check latest prices and availability for a Berlin lunch cruise OR a Berlin dinner cruise

Berlin Bike Tour – I’m a little wobbly on two wheels so tend to avoid bike tours, but for many of my friends (and Berliners too) this is a fave way to travel. On this 4.5 hour tour you’ll hear the full history of Berlin, while speeding past the Berlin Wall Memorial, Checkpoint Charlie, Brandenburg Gate, the Spree River and Tiergarten Park. Plus, when you start to feel tired, there’s the opportunity to stop by a beer garden too.

Check latest prices and availability for a Berlin bike tour

Nightlife Tour through Alternative Berlin with Local Guide – As I was travelling solo, I was tempted to book onto a tour like this! I’m not usually brave enough to go to bars or clubs late at night solo, unless I know the lay of the land. On this tour you’ll find out where the locals drink, and party with them! From goth bars to craft beer spots, you’ll explore Prenzlauer Berg, Kreuzberg, Friedrichshain, Neukölln and Wedding, and feel like a true Berliner by the end!

Check latest prices and availability for the Berlin nightlife tour

3-Hour Berlin Beer Tour – Beer is a big deal in Berlin, and beer lovers will be excited by the range of craft beers on offer in the city. On this tour, you’ll find out about Germany’s brewing industry, “biergartens” and try some great pints along the way.

Check latest prices and availability for the Berlin beer tour

Where To Eat In Berlin

House Of Small Wonder – An Instagrammable delight, this café serves up healthy salads and tasty brunch-style food. Expect zucchini noodles, Japanese salads, katsu and watermelon with feta.

Amazing decor at House Of Small Wonder, Berlin

District Mot – There is a very large Vietnamese population in Berlin (as I learned on my food tour) so with that comes great food around the city! I loved this restaurant, which specialises in a street food vibe and great flavours. The bao burgers have won awards and are particularly worth a try!

Curry 61 – THE place for currywurst in the city. It’s not gourmet but you have to try it when you come to Berlin!

Cocolo Ramen – Expect to queue at this tiny ramen joint serving up tasty and authentic tonkotsu and gyozas. I waited for 45 minutes and am still debating whether it was worth it, but it was pretty good! I’m sure if you go during the day you’ll beat the queues!

Madang – This Korean restaurant serves up tasty hot pots and grills. Part of the fun is in sharing lots of dishes and the theatre of the huge grill trays! The spicy tofu grill was delicious, especially once the sauce caramelised!

Tasty tofu and vegetable grill at Madang Berlin

Neumanns – I really loved walking around Friedrichshain, and decided this was the café for my final lunch. I wasn’t disappointed! Along with it’s hipster interior, their coffee is great and topped-sourdough dishes make a delicious lunch.

Woop Woop Ice Cream – A bit of novelty, this ice cream shop opened earlier this year and makes four flavours of ice cream using liquid nitrogen. Have it in a cup or a bubble waffle and watch the magic happen in front of your eyes!

Where To Stay In Berlin

The Circus Hotel – Funky, stylish, quirky and well-located, this hotel was perfect for my stay. There are U-Bahn and tram stops right outside at Rosenthal Platz, plus plenty of lovely restaurants and boutiques nearby. The breakfasts downstairs at Commonground are excellent too.

Cute, kitsch decor at The Circus Hotel, Berlin

This blog was produced in association with the GNTB but as always, opinions are my own.

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Chloe gunning.

With a passion for food, fun and adventure, Chloe is the content creator behind one of the UK's top travel blogs Wanderlust Chloe. From volcano boarding in Nicaragua, to sailing around Sicily and eating her way around Japan, her travels have taken her to some of the coolest spots on the planet. Named Travel Influencer of the Year in 2022, Chloe regularly works with a number of tourism boards, producing inspirational travel content across multiple platforms. Find out more about Chloe here.

The Insider’s Guide to Berlin

Five of the city’s culture movers—artists, curators, and designers—offer their best travel tips.

Ever wish you could text the most stylish people in the world to ask them for their lists of things to do in the places they know best? Here are insider travel tips for those who would never be caught dead in a tourist trap. Bon voyage!

There’s no shortage of romance and mythology surrounding Germany’s capital city. To cut through the noise, we spoke to five of Berlin’s most impactful tastemakers, all locals or longtime residents: Benjamin Alexander Huseby and Serhat Isik, the designers of Berlin-based label GmbH; Mumi Haiati, the founder of Reference Studios; artist Donna Huanca, known for her immersive installations and multisensory performances; and Nina Pohl, photographer and curator of the Schinkel Pavillon.

What to Bring

“Pack your G-string and leave behind any inhibitions,” says Huanca.

The truth is, you really don’t need much. The style of the city is laid-back and largely informal. When I first moved to Berlin (very spontaneously) in 2018, I lived out of a carry-on for five months before returning to New York to get my things. (I can’t imagine living this sparsely in Paris or London or so many other places, but here it is doable.)

Some essentials: Walkable shoes. Minimal sandals or a cool pair of sneakers are a must. Bring light layers if you’re planning on visiting in the summer or fall; it can get chilly at night. I might also suggest a pair of sturdy boots if you’re planning on clubbing. Nothing makes me feel safer on the dance floor than my seemingly impenetrable Docs.

I would also bring a good pair of denim, clothes that can easily go from day to night; the fanciest thing you’ll need would be a look you’d wear to a gallery opening. Don’t believe the rumors that this is a city of people wearing only black. Aesthetically, there’s room for fun and irony. Paloma Wool, ’90s Prada and Miu Miu, vintage sportswear, flea market finds, anything by Martine Rose, Kiko Kostadinov, neons, and of course Berlin’s locals like GmbH feel on the pulse. Consider also packing some detox supplies and a solid book to read in the park and in cafés—it’s a great city in which to be alone.

Finally, “bring swimwear,” says Huseby and Isik. Berlin is full of lakes and parks where you can picnic and take a dip throughout the summer months.

What to Leave Behind

Leave your heels at home. Moreover, if you’re swimming, your bikini is optional. “Simply leave it behind if you prefer the many ‘clothing optional’ (or FKK = ‘free body culture’) lakes and beaches,” Isik advises.

What to Keep in Mind

“Don’t say, ‘Berlin is so cheap,’” Huseby says. It’s worth being aware that Berlin is experiencing a housing crisis, with rents rising dramatically in recent years and wages remaining comparably low. What’s relatively inexpensive for you as a visitor may not be for the people creating the culture.

Moreover, “the biggest misconception is that Berlin is super liberal and free, just because the clubs and bars never seem to close,” Isik explains. “This is such an illusion that most foreigners don’t see past. Berlin is still in Germany, and has the same conservative laws and regulations for everything else. Take for instance gender equality and social mobility, which is way behind many comparable European countries.”

On a practical note, the city is easy to get around in. Jump on the train from the airport for a €4 trip into the city. The UBahn and SBahn are your friends.

Where to Stay

Huseby and Isik recommend Mitte, Berlin’s most central neighborhood, for first-time visitors. It’s easily connected to the rest of the city, and full of cafés, buzzy restaurants, green spaces, and wine bars. The best place to stay is “ SoHo House ,” says Huanca, admitting, “Sorry, it’s true.”

Chateau Royal is also a great option, with each room featuring original works by a different artist. The hotel collaborated with the KW Institute for Contemporary Art to collect pieces from over 100 international and local artists, including Anne Imhof and Jeremy Shaw. Another classic is the traditional five-star Hotel de Rome , which Pohl calls out for its rather ideal location on Museum Island—right next to Schinkel Pavillon .

If you’re staying on the west side, Haiati recommends the stately SO/ Berlin Das Stue and Regent , an opulent boutique property with old-school luxury appeal. (Try the afternoon tea.)

S/O Berlin Das Stue

Where to Start the Day

Everyone has their own favorite neighborhood café, but for an excellent cinnamon bun, traditional Northern European handmade bread, and the best cold brew, head to Sofi in Mitte .

a drink and a sandwich at sofi bakery in berlin

Another outstanding option is Albatross Bakery in Neukolln . Go “for their Queen A pastry (a version of a kouign amann) pastry,” says Isik. “But not for their coffee.”

Pohl recommends the beautifully minimal Julius , the little brother to Michelin-starred Ernst . Come for freshly baked pastries and Japanese-influenced small plates.

A brunch favorite is Annelies . Enjoy mimosas and fluffy buttermilk pancakes before grabbing to-go drinks and people-watching in Görlitzer park.

Where to Eat

The food scene in Berlin is increasingly diverse, with plenty of Turkish and Vietnamese options, an array of hand-pulled Chinese noodle spots, and innovative takes on German-influenced, farm-to-table cuisine. Haiati recommends “ Borchardt for the best schnitzel in town and Baba Angora for Turkish brunch,” adding, “To go back in time to the golden days of West Berlin, head to Paris Bar . Grill Royal is the ultimate classic, as is the mysterious China Club—if you know a member—for a luxurious, high-end Chinese food experience.” (David Bowie and Rainer Werner Fassbinder were Paris Bar regulars during their Berlin eras, and the French brasserie is still a place to find interesting characters.)

Grill Royal

Huanca, meanwhile, suggests a visit to Dong Xuan Center , the largest Asian market in the city with food vendors especially from Vietnam but also representing China, Pakistan, and India. “It’s entering another dimension and you find authentic flavor there,” she notes.

“We love the Yemeni restaurant on Sonnenallee,” add Isik and Huseby. “Casual, busy and affordable, but great traditional Yemeni food.”

For a truly special experience, book a table at Coda , a two-star Michelin dessert-only restaurant in a small industrial space in Neukolln that pushes the boundaries of pastry-making. Think a pecan and Jerusalem artichoke popsicle coated in caviar or a paper-light waffle filled with Raclette cheese. Go with an open mind and you won’t be disappointed.

Where to Shop

Berlin is full of markets, and is increasingly a top destination for sourcing vintage, especially ’90s and Y2K grails.

“I love to search at Sunday flea markets in Charlottenburg, Neukölln, Arkonaplatz,” Huanca says. “When I’m feeling like quiet luxury, I go to Manufactum for a true German experience.”

For high-end vintage, go to Pineapple Factory in Mitte , suggests Isik, Huseby, and Huanca. Haiati also recommends Townes for archival finds. Wsiura , a favorite of Huanca’s, gets its name from the Polish word for a poorly dressed woman; come here for vintage Mugler, Jil Sander, and a sex swing in the basement. A unique Berlin experience is BLESS , adds Haiati. The apartment-store in Prenzlauer Berg explores apparel and home objects through a playful, deconstructionist lens. For instance, the brand collaborated with Margiela in creating the fur wig seen in the fall 1997 ad campaign.

For those looking for ready-to-wear, Alex Eagle’s The Store has great stuff (and it’s a perfect “work-from-home” café—try the date smoothie with a shot of espresso), as does Voo store , which can not be missed. Andreas Murkudis is also a local institution. Head West to Charlottenburg for “KadeWe, Balenciaga, and Bottega Veneta,” Pohl suggests.

Where to Look at Art

Berlin has been the center of the conceptual art world for many years, and its fine art scene is a reason in and of itself to visit.

Book a tour (in advance) at Boros Collection , the private collection housed in a former WWII bunker-turned-GDR-era-banana-storage-facility, and later, hardcore techno club. Beyond its incredible Brutalist structure and a history that untangles the city’s, the collection itself—contemporary work making use of the space—is well worth engaging with. The James Turrell Chapel , located in the historic Dorotheenstädtischer Cemetery, is a truly meditative experience, and also requires a reservation.

Bunny Rogers at Boros Collection

As far as other institutions go, Haiati recommends Neue Nationalgalerie “under the direction of Klaus Biesenbach, plus Hamburger Bahnhof and Sprüth Magers & Buchholz for being some of the most directional galleries.”

“[The best art day] depends on the neighborhood, and I will go anywhere for a good show,” Huanca adds. “My favorites are: Number One Main Road , Peres Projects , Isabella Bortolozzi , Esther Schipper , Julia Stoschek , [and] Heidi Heidi Heidi .”

An installation view of Christophe de Rohan Chabot’s Untitled (Kim Kardashian) , 2022, at Heidi Heidi Heidi.

an installation view at Heidi Heidi Heidi berlin

Where to Unwind

Wellness goes hand in hand with club culture in a city with plenty of offerings in both arenas. Try the Susanne Kaufmann spa at Das Stue Hotel, suggests Pohl. Another luxurious pick is the 111Skin Spa at Hotel Adlon Kempinski, complete with several restorative facials for serious skin revival. Save a day for Vabali , a sprawling, deeply calming spa full of steam rooms, saunas, and pools. (Just be aware that you have to be nude on the premises).

Susanne Kaufmann Spa

As for exercise, Haiati highly recommends booking a session with trainer Lesley Moon . BeCycle —with locations in Mitte, Charlottenburg, and Kreutzberg—has excellent spinning, yoga, and pilates classes. Three Boons Yoga is also a local favorite.

Where to Get Some Fresh Air

One of the best parts of summer in Berlin is experiencing the city’s lakes and parks. Head to “Tempelhof, lying in the grass or get out of the city to one of the lakes,” suggest Isik and Huseby.

Haiati recommends The Botanical Gardens, Grunewald —a beautiful forest near Charlottenburg—and Peacock Island, located in the lake of Wannsee in the west for inspiration. If you are a runner, Tiergarten park is lovely.

The Botanical Gardens

Where to Have a Drink

The relaxed culture of the city comes out in the bar scene. “Take drinks with you and sit in Tempelhof field (the abandoned airfield) on a sunny day,” says Huseby.

Depending on the neighborhood you start in, I would recommend grabbing a bottle of natural wine from The Rad , Rocket Wine (the staff is incredibly knowledgeable), or Nomi Wine Bar , which features female winemakers. Or stop by one of Berlin’s many spätis for a beer or lemonade.

Nomi Wine Bar

For cocktails, both Pohl and Haiati call out Victoria Bar , the Art Deco-style Schoneberg hub known for its crowd of artists and gallerists. Wax On in Neukolln has beautifully refined, stripped-down takes on classic cocktails. Kink Bar & Restaurant , next to Olafur Eliasson’s studio in Mitte, is an excellent option for more experimental drinks.

Victoria Bar

Where to Stay Up Late

“Berghain,” says Pohl. Little explanation is needed. “I love the sound system,” muses Huanca. “It can be a very bodily experience.”

Beyond the obvious, Huanca adds, “I love dancing at Roses , but will dance anywhere a good DJ is.”

Isik and Huseby, whose label was born in the club scene, share, “Currently the best parties in Berlin are MP3 , Nothing Special , and Floorgasm . They all happen quite irregularly and change venues from time to time.”

They also recommend Trauma Bar & Kino for live music.

“For classical music, Philharmonie ,” Pohl suggests. There’s a thriving live arts scene in the city that extends beyond electronic music, encompassing theater, opera, and dance. (Berlin has seven symphony orchestras and three opera houses; be sure to check openings.)

The Philharmonie Berlin

a look at the berlin philharmonie building

“[Come] late April for Gallery Weekend until Art Week and Atonal in September. After that it gets cold and gray,” Haiati says. The days also get shorter. Berlin is at its emotional and sensory peak in the warmer months.

Although the city has changed over the past decades, some constants remain. “[I love] the sentiment of the free spirit. Its vastness,” Haiati says. “The most common misconception is that of Berlin as a pure party city—it has much more cultural offerings. Walk around the Turkish market on Maybachufer on Saturdays. Go and see the Turkish and Arabic neighborhoods, and the Asian restaurants on Kantstraße.”

Huanca echoes this feeling. “For me, Berlin has been an energetic center of freedom, without the fussiness and transactional vibe of other big cities,” she shares. “It has real seasons, so when the weather changes, so does your mood. In the summertime, Berlin turns into a very sexy place, full of wild green spaces.”

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Berlin Travel Guide

Lindsay Cohn is a writer, editor, and avid traveler who has visited 45 countries across six continents — and counting. She contributes to Travel + Leisure, Hotels Above Par, InsideHook, Well+Good, The Zoe Report, and more.

Berlin is a place of stark contrasts. On one hand, reminders of its turbulent past are everywhere. But it's also a modern megalopolis—that's geographically nine times bigger than Paris—with exciting new attractions and an inherent subversiveness. This juxtaposition makes it a destination unlike any other.

The big question for most travelers when venturing to Germany's once war-torn capital then becomes how to navigate the past while living in the present. It's essential to confront the heavier aspects of the city's history. However, that doesn't mean a visit to Berlin is all memorials and museums. (Though, it bears repeating that you should absolutely carve out ample time to do all that.) The contemporary side of things very much deserves exploration, too.

An artsy mecca with a slew of galleries and eccentric installations, Berlin transformed the last pieces of the wall that once divided it into a permanent open-air exhibition.

This sprawling city also has a wild side with nightlife at its center. There are hedonistic drinking dens with cabaret acts, swanky speakeasies and anything-goes clubs where people party for 48 hours (that's not an exaggeration). Add to that picturesque parks, a thriving food scene that's garnered international acclaim of late, a world-class zoo and a cool aesthetic sensibility with homegrown designers making a global name for themselves.

Overwhelmed? Berlin tends to have that effect on out-of-towners. Bookmark this guide to help plan your first (or next) trip.

CEST (Central European Summer Time)

Best Time to Go

May through October is the peak travel period in Berlin. Temperatures tend to be moderate, making it a lovely time to walk around, see the historic sites, hang out in the many green spaces and enjoy al fresco dining. Winter isn't the season that most tourists visit due to the less welcoming weather. However, holiday festivities—notably the fabled Christmas markets—are a bright light in the middle of what can feel like a very long, grey few months.

Things to Know

Currency: Euro (Check the current exchange rate )

Language: German

Calling Code: +49

How to Get Around

U-Bahn: The most convenient and efficient way to navigate Berlin, the U-Bahn , or subway system, has a total of 10 lines stopping at 173 stations. During the day, the iconic yellow U-Bahn trains depart every five minutes. At night, they leave in 10-minute intervals. Tickets are also valid across the Transport Association Berlin-Brandenburg VBB-operated S-Bahn, buses and trams.

S-Bahn: The S-Bahn is a network of suburban train lines that covers 15 lines and nearly 170 train stations. In the city center, it mostly runs above ground.

Buses: Metro buses M11 to M85 run 24/7. Day bus lines 100 to 399 connect the suburbs and city center. Night buses—which are marked with an N—cover the day bus and U-Bahn routes that cease operating overnight.

Trams & Metrotrams: Upwards of 20 tram lines extend the network of the U-Bahn through the eastern part of Berlin. The difference between trams and metrotrams is frequency, with the latter running more often.

Taxis: Public transport in Berlin is fantastic—and would be our recommendation. That said, if you'd rather take a car, taxis are widely available.

Rideshare: Prefer to hail an Uber? That's also an option.

Bicycles: Bike sharing is a convenient and eco-friendly way to get around thanks to companies like Nextbike and Donkey Republic. While electric bikes are available to rent through Wheels, Jump and LimeBike.

Best Hotels

Hotel de rome.

Address: Behrenstraße 37, 10117 Berlin, Germany Phone: +49 30 4606090 Website

Located on Bebelplatz in historic East Berlin, Hotel de Rome occupies what was once the headquarters of 19th-century Dresden Bank. Brilliantly, this prestigious Rocco Forte property preserved many of the building's most spectacular original features—most interestingly the jewel vault that's now an indoor swimming pool. While sleek furnishings and colorful accents add modern flair to the mix.

Orania.Berlin

Address: Oranienstraße 40, 10999 Berlin, Germany

Phone: +49 30 69539680

Website: orania.berlin

An upscale addition to the edgier side of Kreuzberg, Oriana.Berlin is a boutique stay with an elevated yet totally laid-back sensibility. It's impossible to pinpoint the singular thing that makes this hotel so stellar, however, the subtle Asian influences—headboards swathed in elephant-printed fabric and signature crispy-skinned duck at the restaurant—as well as jazz in the open-concept lobby, definitely play a part.

Hotel am Steinplatz, Autograph Collection

Address: Steinpl. 4, 10623 Berlin, Germany Phone: +49 30 5544440 Website

The same air of glamour and sophistication that lured the likes of Brigitte Bardo to Hotel am Steinplatz remains today. Sure, the decor is different—not that anyone would complain about the gorgeously refreshed interiors (or the upgraded amenities for that matter)—but the distinctive Art Nouveau details endure. Plus, it's within walking distance of Tiergarten, Potsdamer Platz and the Berlin Zoo.

SO/ Berlin Das Stue

Address: Drakestraße 1, 10787 Berlin, Germany Phone: +49 30 3117220 Website

Upon arrival, SO/ Berlin Das Stue looks incredibly posh. The 1930s neoclassical edifice, built by KaDeWe architect Johann Emil Schaudt, certainly gives off a regal first impression. Inside the former Royal Danish Embassy, it's just as resplendent with an eye-catching white marble staircase and dazzling, larger-than-life chandelier. Direct access to the Berlin Zoo is a bonus.

25hours Hotel Bikini Berlin

Address: Budapester Str. 40, 10787 Berlin, Germany Phone: +49 30 1202210 Website

Hip, youthful, off-beat, and affordable—25hours Hotel Bikini Berlin serves up major cool factor. It's the type of place you'd go to hang out even if you weren't a guest. Of course, staying at this urban oasis does come with a bunch of perks such as enjoying the jungle-themed rooms and skipping the line for the rooftop cocktail bar.

Hotel Adlon Kempinski

Address: Unter den Linden 77, 10117 Berlin, Germany Phone: +49 30 22610 Website

Boasting (arguably) the most desirable addresses in Berlin, Hotel Adlon Kempinski sits directly across the way from Brandenburg Gate. Enviable location aside, this five-star property is a revered landmark for so many other reasons. From the opulent lobby and spacious suites to the Michelin-starred restaurant, grandeur and elegance are the very heart of everything.

Best Restaurants

Hackethals (german).

Address: Pflugstrasse 11, 10115 Berlin Germany Phone: +49 30 28387765 Website

When in Berlin, you must try traditional German food. Hackethals is a cozy gastropub that does classics right. Order the sauerkraut, potato dumplings, schnitzel, and slow-cooked venison. Be sure to leave room for apple strudel. To wash it down? Beer, of course.

Restaurant Tim Raue (Fine Dining)

Address: Rudi-Dutschke-Straße 26, 10969 Berlin, Germany Phone: +49 30 25937930 Website

Berlin-born chef Tim Raue needs no introduction. Neither does the elevated Asian-inspired menu at his Michelin-rated restaurant, which continually receives rave reviews from critics and diners alike. Needless to say, reservations are required.

Curry 61 (German)

Address: Oranienburger Str. 6, 10178 Berlin, Germany Phone: +49 30 40054033 Website

Currywurst (pork sausage smothered in curried ketchup and served alongside fries) is an extremely popular street food in Berlin. You can sample it all over the city, but Curry 61 makes one of the best versions of this crowd-pleasing dish. Try it and thank us later.

Eins44 (Modern European)

Address: Elbestraße 28/29, 12045 Berlin, Germany Phone: +49 30 62981212 Website

Sublime isn't a word that we toss around a lot. However, it's the most accurate way to describe the entire experience at Eins44. Enter the industrial-inspired eatery, inside an old distillery, and prepare to have your taste buds tickled by an unfussy interpretation of modern European fine dining.

Panama (German)

Address: Potsdamer Straße 91, 10785 Berlin, Germany Phone: +49 30 983208435 Website

Oftentimes, you have to choose between Michelin-starred fare and a fun vibe. That couldn't be less true of Panama. The modern German cuisine, lively two-floor space and service are fantastic. Did we mention the craft cocktails and interesting wine list?

Mustafa's Gemüse Kebap (Turkish)

Address: Mehringdamm 32, 10961 Berlin, Germany Website

Mustafa's Gemüse Kebap in Kreuzberg is one of those places that's just universally adored. The only downside? Depending on when you visit, the queue might stretch an entire city block. We promise it's worth waiting just to dig into a juicy döner kebab.

Things to Do

East side gallery.

Address: Mühlenstraße 3-100, 10243 Berlin, Germany Phone: +49 30 2517159 Website

What was once a symbol of division now reflects the spirit and resilience of the city. Perched along the banks of Spree River in Friedrichshain, the 4,318-foot-long East Side Gallery showcases a collection of colorful murals painted on the surviving pieces of the Berlin Wall. It's a beautiful metaphor that's so very Berlin.

Reichstag Building

Address: Platz der Republik 1, 11011 Berlin, Germany Phone: +49 30 22732152 Website

Like so much of Berlin, the Reichstag Building has lived many lives. Today, it again houses the German parliament. Admire the neo-Baroque edifice from the outside or book in advance to step inside the Sir Norman Foster-designed glass dome.

Brandenburg Gate

Address: Pariser Platz, 10117 Berlin, Germany Website

One block south of the Reichstag Building stands Brandenburg Gate. Widely considered to be Berlin's most iconic landmark, it's a shining symbol of freedom and reunification after four decades of Cold War division.

The Memorial to the Murdered Jews of Europe

Address: Cora-Berliner-Straße 1, 10117 Berlin, Germany Phone: +49 30 2639430 Website

Designed by architect Peter Eisenman and engineer Buro Happold, the Memorial to the Murdered Jews of Europe honors the Jewish victims of the Holocaust. It's a heartbreaking and incredibly important reminder of what happened that should be mandatory to visit.

Tempelhofer Feld

Address: Tempelhofer Damm, 12101 Berlin, Germany Phone: +49 30 700906710 Website

An abandoned airport turned 355-hectare public park, Tempelhofer Feld delivers that telltale mashup of past and present in the most Berlin way possible. You can stroll, cycle, or skate down the concrete runways where WWII dive-bombers took off, while feet away dogs run after frisbees and bikini-clad Berliners sunbathe.

Address: Am Wriezener Bahnhof, 10243 Berlin, Germany Website

Berliners love to party. As such, there are a lot of after-dark venues to do just that. But none compare to Berghain. The world's most infamous club invites revelers to leave their inhibitions behind, dance to techno beats and give in to every debaucherous whim.

Museum Island

Address: Bodestraße 1-3 10178 Berlin, Germany Website

On a small island in the Spree River sits a collection of five prominent museums. This UNESCO-listed, architecturally striking complex is known as Museum Island—and it's a must for any culture lover.

Best Shopping

Kaufhaus des westens.

Address: Tauentzienstraße 21-24, 10789 Berlin, Germany Phone: +49 30 21210 Website

At a sprawling 650,000 square feet and with some 380,000 items for sale at any given time, Kaufhaus des Westens—typically abbreviated to KaDeWe—holds the title of Berlin's most famous retail space. It's actually the second-largest department store in all of Europe after Harrods in London.

Sing Blackbird

Address: Sanderstraße 11, 12047 Berlin, Germany Website

Berlin isn't lacking in vintage stores. Sing Blackbird sets itself apart thanks to an expertly curated selection of pre-loved pieces, plus a stylish café.

Kurfürstendamm

Address: Kurfürstendamm 10707 Berlin, Germany Website

Often compared to the Champs-Élysées in Paris, Kurfürstendamm in Charlottenburg is lined with high-end designers like Gucci and Louis Vuitton. If you don't have that kind of cash, it's also a great place for window shopping.

The Amazing Crocodile Design Store

Address: Raumerstraße 23, 10437 Berlin, Germany Phone: +49 30 40006930 Website

Fancy an upside-down geometric pendant lamp or neon pink floor mirror? You'll find both at The Amazing Crocodile Design Store, the buzziest spot to buy quirky, refined, and oh-so-chic homewares in Berlin.

Address: Oranienstraße 24, 10999 Berlin, Germany Phone: +49 30 61651119 Website

A progressive, forward-thinking undercurrent has permeated its way into the Berlin aesthetic of late. Insert Voo Store, a contemporary concept shop meets specialty coffee roaster that's tucked away on the ground floor of a former locksmith in Kreuzberg.

Antique Jewellery Berlin

Address: Linienstraße 44, 10119 Berlin, Germany Phone: +49 30 20689155 Website

Antique Jewellery Berlin offers a vast array of vintage baubles. Whether you're in the market for a signet ring or enamel earrings, we'd be willing to bet it's sitting in the case at this beloved retailer.

Neighborhoods to Know

Berlin has 12 administrative districts ( Bezirk) , subdivided into 23 neighborhoods ( Kiez ).

Mitte: Keen to stay in the heart of the action? Mitte (which literally means "middle") lies in the center of the city. Not only is this sprawling borough chock-full of top sights—including Brandenburg Gate, Museum Island, and Tiergarten—but also cafes, bars, and shops. Another major selling point? Public transport. Basically, every train line runs through the main railway station, Berlin Hauptbahnhof.

Kreuzberg: People often liken bohemian Kreuzberg to Brooklyn, but there's really no accurate comparison. Of late, a spate of hip bars and trendy restaurants have popped up at a breakneck pace. Yet much of Kreuzberg still clings to its grittiness like a badge of honor. On one corner, a beautiful community garden and art installation. Veer left and you'll arrive on a gentrification-resistant street scattered with broken beer bottles and graffiti-covered buildings. And that's the beauty of this enigmatic, multicultural hood.

Charlottenburg: Charlottenburg could accurately be categorized as the more upscale side of Berlin. Graceful pre-war buildings, five-star hotels, top-rated restaurants, and designer boutiques dot the litter-free boulevards. The stately Charlottenburg Palace has ornate interiors and manicured gardens, while Berggruen Museum displays an incredible collection of modern art.

Neukölln: A diverse district known for its eclectic, international vibe, the bustling streets of Neukölln brim with Middle Eastern bakeries, vegan eateries, bars, breweries, and artists studios. Check out a poetry slam at Heimathafen Neukölln and shop for fragrant spices at the Turkish Market.

Schöneberg: The epicenter of nightlife back in the 1920s, today Schöneberg is the hub of LGBTQIA culture. It's home to an array of bars, cafes, galleries and shops, including Kaufhaus des Westens, as well as Natur-Park Südgelände.

Things begin to thaw in the spring. As the months move ahead, the temperature rises. Summer is warm, but rarely hot. Pack a light jacket and be prepared to layer as it moves later into fall. When winter rolls in, expect some clouds, rain, sleet and snow.

The following are average Fahrenheit highs and lows by season.

Spring: 65°F / 47°F

Summer: 74°F / 57°F

Fall: 57°F / 44°F

Winter: 39°F / 30°F

Apps to Download

Berlin Subway: U-Bahn and S-Bahn maps and route planner iOS | Android

berlinHistory: Berlin history by location iOs | Android

Going Local Berlin: Insider travel tips iOs | Android

accessBerlin: Route planner; online and offline maps; restaurant, hotel and activity recommendations iOs | Android

Black Forest
Moselle Valley
Rhine Valley
48 Hour Trips
Long Weekend Trips
1 Week Trips
Beer + Drink Guides
Christmas Markets
Coffee Guides
Restaurant Guides
Shopping Guides

Berlin 4-Day Itinerary: The Best Of Berlin In 4 Days

Berlin is a city with endless possibilities and a rich history that can keep you entertained for days on end. Since moving to Germany in 2019, I have visited Berlin on a several occasions in different seasons. I always try to discover new things and explore deep into the city’s neighborhoods. Whether you’re interested in exploring cultural heritage sites, trying local cuisine, or partying the night away, Berlin has something for everyone.

You could easily spend a week in Berlin, but I think a long weekend is the perfect length for a first time visitor. 3 or 4 days is ideal to give you a taste of must-see landmarks and cultural attractions. Plus, I’ve included some stops in the distinct and trendy neighborhoods that make Berlin a popular destination for young people. In this blog post, I’ll take you through the best sights, delicious food spots, and exciting activities that you won’t want to miss.

If you’re planning a trip to Berlin, you’ll want to make the most of your time. With only four days to explore, it can be difficult to know where to begin. That’s why I’ve put together the ultimate itinerary, highlighting the best things to see and do in Berlin on a long weekend visit. Designed for first-time visitors, this blog post will help you plan the perfect trip to Berlin. So, pack your bags and get ready to discover Germany’s most dynamic city.

What You'll Find in this Article

Berlin 4 Day Itinerary: Best of Berlin in a Long Weekend

Morning: Brandenburg Gate & Holocaust Memorial

Perhaps the most famous landmark in Berlin is the Brandenburg Gate. Nearly every first-time visitor to Berlin will visit this sandstone gate, which was built between 1788 – 1791. In more recent history, the Brandenburg Gate was a symbol of division between east and west Germany. After the Berlin Wall was erected in 1961, the gate sat right in the middle of the restricted zone. It could not be visited by East Berliners nor West Berliners. It was essentially left abandoned for 30 years until reunification when it was reappropriated as a symbol of German unity.

Another essential place to visit in Berlin is the Memorial to the Murdered Jews of Europe. You’ll also hear it called the Holocaust Memorial, but that isn’t the official name. Designed by architects Peter Eisenman and Buro Happold in 2005, there are 2,711 concrete columns across 19,000 square meters. It forms a vast mazelike complex. The columns are all different heights (between 8 inches to 15 feet), and the ground undulates with small hills and slight angles. Walking through the columns creates an uncomfortable, disorienting experience for the visitor.

Beneath the memorial is an information center and museum that I would strongly recommend visiting. The center takes a micro-level approach, following individual people and families who were killed in the Holocaust. The personal histories from different European countries are tragic and heart-breaking. I found the storytelling to be incredibly powerful here, really connecting the overwhelming atrocity to individual stories. There are lots of photos and audio clips, as well as the names of approximately 3 million Jewish Holocaust victims.

Early Afternoon: Tiergarten

If you decide to visit the memorial center beneath the Memorial to the Murdered Jews of Europe, you are likely going to need some time to decompress. It is a heavy topic, so a walk through the peaceful and beautiful Tiergarten park will help. The park dates back to the 16th century when it was used as a hunting ground for the Prussian royal family. Located in the heart of Berlin, Tiergarten is one of the city’s most popular green spaces.

With over 200 acres of gardens, lakes, and forests, you can explore the park on foot or by bike. It is no secret that I love biking, so I would recommend that option 100%. It is easy to use one of the app-based bike share programs, such as nextbike , and there are several stations around the perimeter of Tiergarten. Today, it is a beloved recreational area for locals and tourists alike. You’ll see lots of people enjoying leisurely stroll along the park’s winding paths, relaxing by the lake, or enjoying a picnic. You might even catch some wildlife viewing, including birds, squirrels, and rabbits.

Late Afternoon: Reichstag

Now I know it might sound boring, but hear me out – you should visit the seat of the German federal government at the storied Reichstag. Of all the historic places that I’ve visited in Berlin , this one was probably the most surprising. I loved it! This historic parliamentary building has changed leadership countless times since its construction in 1871. It was also the site of the Nazi’s famous 1933 arson and false flag attack that gave Hitler pretext to suspend civil liberties and begin brutal repression in the name of national security.

You need to book a visit ahead of time (usually at least one week before) and you will also need to go through a security check before entering. Once inside, you will see why the Reichstag is one of the most recognizable buildings in Berlin’s skyline. It has a massive glass dome that sits on top! This stunning structure offers 360-degree views of Germany’s capital city and the opportunities for photography are endless here.

Evening: Charlottenburg Neighborhood

I recommend popping over to the western side of Berlin for dinner on your first night in the city. On the way, take a quick peek in the Kaiser Wilhelm Memorial Church . Acting as the symbolic center of west Berlin, the original church was severely damaged during aerial allied bombing in WWII. While parts of the interior were restored after the war, the main tower was intentionally left as a ruin. The ghastly visual serves as a visual reminder of the importance of European peace and functions as a memorial against war and destruction.

There are several fun dinner options in the Charlottenburg neighborhood of Berlin. Dishing up some simple and delicious Taiwanese food, Lon-Men’s Noodle house is a casual hole-in-the-wall spot with noodle soups, bao buns and fried dumplings. For something a little bit fancier, 893 Ryotei is an excellent choice. You’ll need to make a reservation several weeks in advance, but this Japanese-Peruvian fusion restaurant pushes the boundaries in all the best ways. You won’t be disappointed by anything on the menu here.

This may sound random, but a final dinner suggestion is Kaufhaus des Westens. Also known as KaDeWe , this is one of Berlin’s most luxurious department stores. Known for its wide range of high-end fashion and beauty shops, KaDeWe also boasts an impressive food hall with gourmet food. Think an oyster bar, a champagne counter, and even a caviar stand. There is also a full service restaurant on the rooftop with a gorgeous glass dome ceiling. This is a fun place to bounce around and sample different cuisine.

Morning: Jewish Museum

Start your second day in Berlin at the world famous Jewish Museum. The building is one of the most distinctive pieces of modern architecture in the city. Built by acclaimed architect Daniel Libeskind, the Jewish Museum is a masterpiece. Spread across three structures, the building plays with light and scale to elicit emotional reactions for the visitor, mirroring the emotions they will already be feeling as they dive deep into the history of Jewish people in Germany.

The thought-provoking room of darkness, the slits of light in the stairwell, and the disorienting subterranean hallways are intentional choices that force the visitor to engage with the space and the content of the museum. The exhibition chronicles stories of Jewish culture, migration, diversity, and persecution. Extensively researched and thoughtfully presented, the collection is very impressive. While the experience is heavy, I found it to be important and impactful.

Early Afternoon: East Side Gallery

One of the most recognizable historic places to visit in Berlin is the East Side Gallery. You have most likely seen imagery of the murals on Instagram before. Located just off Warschauer Strasse, the East Side Gallery is a 1.3 km stretch of the Berlin Wall which has been converted into an open-air art gallery. Street artists and muralists painted powerful political messages and artwork on the ruins of the wall. I find it is a juxtaposition that is quintessentially Berlin. Expect to wait in line with other tourists to get a picture of yourself in front of the most famous murals.

The most iconic murals in the East Side Gallery include:

“the kiss between Brezhnev and Honecker” which shows the leaders of Germany and the USSR kissing
“It Happened in November” a painting by Kani Alvai which depicts Checkpoint Charlie on the day the Berlin Wall fell
“The Wall Jumper” which shows a man jumping over the Berlin Wall to leave East Berlin to join the free world.

Late Afternoon: Markthalle Neun

When you’re done looking at the East Side Gallery, cross over the Spree River on the Oberbaum Bridge. This double decker bridge has a unique look with castle-like turrets and arched barrel vaults. It opened in 1896 and has been featured in a number of movies, such as Run Lola Run.

Like many other foodie cities around the world, Berlin has embraced the food hall trend and Markthalle Neun in Kreuzberg is the undisputed best. The beautiful interior of this revitalized building will strike you immediately, but the real stars are all the culinary vendors inside. Wander around and see which of the stalls appeal to you. I loved the grilled cheese sandwich stuffed with kimchi from AltMilche, while my husband liked the U.S.-style barbecue at Big Stuff. Wash down your food with a craft beer from Heidenpeters or a mate-influenced gin & tonic from Soul & Spice.

Evening: Bar Hopping in Neukölln

Known for its vibrant nightlife and diverse culinary scene, Neukölln is a popular destination for foodies and bar-hoppers alike. I recommend ending your second day exploring Berlin in Neukölln, because it will give you a sense of the hip and alternative scene that Berlin is so well-known for. For dinner, grab some street food, especially Turkish cuisine. Follow your nose or look for the spots with a line, because locals always know best.

If you happen to be in Berlin during nice weather, start your Neukölln bar crawl at Klunkerkranich . This makeshift bar is on the top floor of a parking garage, making it a quintessentially Berlin experience. It is built out of reclaimed materials, recycled pallets, community gardens, and artist installations. It is quirky, but it offers one of the best rooftop views in the city. This is a great place to come around sunset, although there are legendary parties and live music events here late into the night.

The area is also known for its lively bar scene, with a number of trendy and unique watering holes to choose from. Being a cocktail girl myself, I recommend sampling drinks at some of Neukölln’s legendary cocktail bars. Geist im Glas , Tier , and Velvet are all great options. If you prefer to discover on your own, stroll down Weserstraße between Wildenbruchstraße and Kottbusser Damm. You’re bound to find lots of wine caves, dive bars and cocktail joints on your way.

Morning: Brunch in Reuterkeiz

On my first visit to Berlin, I stayed at a stylish AirBnb in the Reuterkiez neighborhood. I really fell in love with this neighborhood, because it has a charming yet gritty vibe in the heart of the city. I especially like a morning walk along the canal with a coffee from Kaffeebar in hand. Reuterkiez has a lot of great options that will satisfy any AM cravings, whether you’re looking for a quick coffee or a leisurely brunch. There are some great brunch places in this neighborhood so I recommend a leisurely start on your third morning in Berlin.

If you want something quick or to-go, it is hard to beat the amazing baked goods at Albatross Bakery . This down-to-earth and minimalist spot has incredible croissants along with crusty sourdough loaves. For a boozier take on brunch, head to Le Bon . Their literal motto is brunch, lunch and booze! This sophisticated restaurant offers an international brunch fare in a classic Berlin industrial space.

A final suggestion is Geist im Glas . You might not expect the bar you stumbled out of would be able to whip out one of tastiest brunches just a few hours later, but this is Berlin – anything is possible. Specializing in cuisine from the American south, the buttermilk pancakes are iconic and the biscuits and gravy induce some serious nostalgia. This brunch draws a crowd every week, so don’t be surprised if you find a wait.

Early Afternoon: Checkpoint Charlie & Typography of Terror Museum

I think a visit to the Typography of Terror museum is essential for any first-time visitor to Berlin. The museum sits on the remains of the Nazi’s central operations office, where a majority of the Third Reich’s most heinous crimes were planned and managed. From 1933 to 1945, this building housed the primary offices of Nazi terror institutions, including the Gestapo Secret State Police Office, Reich SS Leadership offices, and the Reich Security Main Office.

Today, the museum chronicles how the Nazis rose to power and spread the message of their ideology. It is full of photos, journals, and artifacts that engage with Germany’s darkest chapters in honest and meaningful ways. I found this museum to be the most educational that we visited in Berlin, and I think it does a really good job of covering an intense topic with direct and straightforward messaging. You’ll need a few hours to go through the museum, as well as some time to decompress after.

After you’re finished, head just two blocks east to Checkpoint Charlie. Located on the corner of Friedrichstraße and Zimmerstraße, Checkpoint Charlie was the best-known crossing point between East Berlin and West Berlin during the Cold War. You might recognize it from famous movies like James Bond or Bridge of Spies. Today, it has been rebuilt as a tourist attraction, complete with the barrier, guard booth and flags. There isn’t much to do here, besides snap a few photos, although there are lots of souvenir shops if you need to pick up something.

Late Afternoon: Biking in Templehof Park

Once again, I am going to encourage you to explore Berlin by bicycle, especially after a visit to the Typography of Terror museum. You’ll need a way to clear your head a bit. Biking is simply my favorite way to see a new city, and Tempelhof Park is a perfect (and safe) place to go for a bike ride. Tempelhof Park was once the site of Tempelhof Airport, which played a significant role in Berlin’s history. The airport was used during the Berlin Airlift in the late 1940s, and later served as a hub for East German refugees during the Cold War.

Long since closed, the former Tempelhof airport grounds were converted into a public park. Characterized by wide open spaces and beautiful green areas, Tempelhof Park is an incredibly popular recreational area for locals looking to relax with a picnic, frisbee or jogging. Maybe you’ve even seen it featured in viral rollerblading TikToks – that seems to be a favorite activity in the park these days! It is also home to a number of cultural attractions, including the German Museum of Technology and the Berlin City Museum. With its beautiful green spaces and rich history, Tempelhof Park is a truly special place to explore.

Evening: Fancy Dinner in Reuterkeiz

Since you’re already in the area, you might as well enjoy dinner in Reuterkeiz. There are so many nice restaurants in this neighborhood – it would be a shame to miss them! Splurge on a Michelin-star night at two unique places in the area. Tulus Lotrek is an unpretentious fine dining experience that will feel warm and welcoming from the moment you arrive. You’ll have the choice of tasting menus between meat or vegetarian as well as the option to choose the number of courses between 6-8. The food is modern, sophisticated and creative with punchy flavors and unique combinations.

Leave room to enjoy a fine-dining dessert experience at CODA. One part high-end patisserie and one part experimental cocktail bar, this swanky spot feels deeply luxurious. Their menu is anything but ordinary, with “dessert” dishes featuring ingredients such as black garlic or miso paste paired with fruits or cacao. A drink pairing comes with the menu, and it is equally as unusual featuring cocktails like beer mixed with sherry or madeira infused with Chinese black tea. You are in for a truly special experience when dining at CODA!

Morning: Breakfast & Shopping in Friedrichshain

On your final day in Berlin, we’ll focus on experiencing some highlights in eastern Berlin as well as some time to explore dynamic neighborhoods. Starting in Friedrichshain, grab a bagel at Fine Bagels . Germany isn’t exactly known for its bagels, but these ones are legit. Part bagel-shop, part bookstore, this is the perfect low key place to start your day.

A wander around any of Berlin’s trendy neighborhoods will reveal a seemingly endless abundance of specialty coffee shops. Ranging from Vienna-inspired coffee to American industrial-chic espresso, experiencing coffee culture is one of the best things to do while traveling in Berlin! There are a number of nice ones around Friedrichshain, which I summarize in my Berlin coffee shop guide .

Berlin has by far the largest assortment of thrift stores and vintage stores in Germany. A great second hand store lies around basically every corner in Berlin. I wrote a whole guide about my favorite second-hand shops in Berlin if you are looking for more suggestions. You’ll find a number of cool second-hand boutiques in Friedrichshain.

Early Afternoon: Berlin Wall Memorial

To see what the Berlin Wall actually looked, head to Berlin Wall Memorial park. This historic and poignant memorial commemorates the city’s division during the Cold War. It serves as a reminder of the struggles and sacrifices of those who lived through this tumultuous period in history. The Berlin Wall was built in 1961, separating East and West Berlin. It was a symbol of the ideological divide between the communist East and the democratic West. Its construction had a profound impact on the city and its people. The Berlin Wall was finally torn down in 1989, following the collapse of the communist regime in East Germany.

A one-mile stretch of the wall has been preserved in its original condition along Bernauer Strasse. This street was one of the most critical dividing lines between east and west Berlin. You will see the thick and towering walls of concrete, rebar, a watchtower, as well as “no-man’s land” in between. This open air exhibit features photographs, signs, and audio histories of people’s experience living in divided Berlin. There is also a memorial wall, which commemorates the heroic and heartbreaking attempts that people made to escape the DDR and reunite with loved ones.

Late Afternoon: Wandering Oranienburger & Prenzlauerberg

Known for its well-preserved 19th century architecture and picturesque streets, the Oranienburger neighborhood is one of Berlin’s nicest areas. This is a picturesque place to get a little bit lost on your last day in Berlin. You’ll discover beautiful street art murals, ivy covered buildings and quiet city streets. Keep your camera handy! Oranienburgerstraße is a popular street for shopping and dining, offering a wide range of options from high-end boutiques to vintage shops and trendy cafes. This area once had a vibrant Jewish community, and you can see some cultural institutions dedicated to that legacy, such as the New Synagogue . It is the largest synagogue in Berlin.

Evening: Dinner in Prenzlauerberg

Prenzlauer Berg is a vibrant neighborhood located in the heart of Berlin. Known for its bohemian atmosphere and lively arts scene, this neighborhood is a popular destination for tourists and locals alike. It is also a nice area to stay in! With its tree-lined streets, charming cafes, and independent boutiques, Prenzlauer Berg offers a unique blend of history and modernity.

Prenzlauer Berg is also home to a number of excellent restaurants, bars, and cafes. It is the perfect place to end your first full day in Berlin. Whether you’re looking for a cozy neighborhood joint or a trendy bar, you’ll find something to suit your taste here. My favorite place to recommend is Katz Orange . The whole restaurant is built inside a 19th-century brewery, and the seasonal eclectic cuisine offers a delicious but approachable fine dining experience.

Logistical Information About Berlin

Where to stay in berlin.

When it comes to accommodation, there are a wide range of options to choose from, including hotels, hostels, and apartments. Berlin has a lot of issues related to short-term vacation rentals like AirBnb and there are a number of somewhat arduous regulations . As such, I would recommend opting for a hotel or hostel.

Thankfully, Berlin is absolutely full of stylish hotel choices ranging from budget to luxury. Depending on your budget and preferences, you’ll be able to find something that suits your needs. On a short visit, I would recommend choosing a location strategically based on what you want to see and do in Berlin. This will help you cut down time traveling around on the metro. Personally, I think Mitte or Friedrichstadt would be good choices. These aren’t exactly the coolest neighborhoods to explore, but they are really central and well-connected.

When to Visit Berlin

Berlin can be enjoyed year-round; however, the best time to visit Berlin depends on your personal preferences and interests. If you’re looking to avoid the crowds and save money, visiting during the off-peak seasons like the fall and winter can be an advantage. During these seasons, you’ll have a better chance of getting discounted hotel rates and avoiding long lines at popular tourist attractions. Additionally, the fall season offers the chance to see the changing leaves in the many parks and gardens throughout the city.

If you’re interested in experiencing Berlin’s vibrant nightlife, summer is the perfect time to visit. The warm weather means that many bars and clubs have their terraces open, and the city hosts a variety of festivals and events. Personally, I am a huge fan of Christmas Markets , and I think visiting Berlin in December is magical. You’ll experience some tourist crowds at the markets, but otherwise the museums and tourist attractions should be fairly open.

How to Get Around in Berlin

Berlin has a fantastic public transportation system, called BVG. This is a fully integrated transit system, so you can bounce between S-Bahn, U-Bahn, and buses. While it might seem overwhelming at first, it is actually pretty easy to navigate once you get the hang of it. Download the BVG app to make things even simpler, because it will show you accurate times and alert you of any delays.

The costs of the public transportation in Berlin is divided into different fare zones, so the price increases if you travel to more than one fare zone. There are also different kinds of travel cards available that can save you money if you’re planning to use public transportation a lot. Just FYI that there are no ticket barriers at stations in Berlin, so you can board trains and buses without showing a ticket. It’s an honesty based system, in which you need to validate your ticket once on board. Ticket checks are fairly common, albeit random, and the fine is high for fare-skippers.

Personally, my favorite way to get around in Berlin is by bicycle. This is the primary way I get around Cologne too because it is incredibly easy and fast with well-marked bicycle lanes that make even novice riders feel confident. Most bicycle rentals start at 5 EUR per day with the bike-sharing programs like Nextbike. There are stations throughout the city, making it super simple to pick up and drop off the bikes.

Have thoughts or questions about this Berlin long weekend itinerary? Comment below!

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The beginnings

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Nazi era and World War II

Cold War and partition

History since reunification

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Getting from the airport to central Berlin

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Remains of the Berlin Wall

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3 days in Berlin

Day 1 in Mitte: from Alexanderplatz to the Brandenburg Gate

Afternoon: Humboldt Forum, Gendarmenmarkt, Holocaust Memorial and Brandenburg gate

At night: Enjoy the nightlife around Hackescher Markt

Day 2 in City West: Between Charlottenburg Palace and the Gedächtniskirche

Afternoon: Ku'damm & Zoo

At night: Enjoy the nightlife of the City West

Day 3 in Kreuzberg-Friedrichshain: Berlin Wall and neighbourhoods

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