Berlin Travel Guide: Top Tips for Your Trip
Traveling to a new place can be overwhelming with so much to plan and look forward to, especially if you’re venturing to a city as large and spread out as Berlin! Our Berlin travel guide is here to help you make the most of your trip with all the practical details you need to know before you holiday in Germany’s capital. We cover safety issues, how to get yourself around the city with multiple transportation options, public holidays, general etiquette and we fill you in on our favorite Berlin neighborhoods.
What to Know Before Visiting Berlin
Berlin is the capital of Germany and has a population of about 3.5 million people. The city is a contrast of new and old, with some notable buildings remaining from the 18th and 19th centuries, then more from the Weimar Republic’s 1920s and 1930 when Berlin played a central role in the development of modern architecture, and finally postwar construction that filled the ruins left from extensive WWII bombing, including Eastern bloc planned communities (Plattenbauten) and city’s iconic TV Tower. Scattered throughout are memorials to the country’s military and cultural history, including memorials to the victims of the Nazi regime. Want to know more about Berlin’s tumultuous history? Book our Introduction to Berlin tour to get insight into the things that make the German capital unique, from its dark Nazi era to Cold War division to the uber-modern city known today for multiculturalism, tolerance, and a percolating art scene.
The currency in Germany is the Euro. While many places do take cards, it is important to carry cash in Germany. The country still relies on cash in many places so it’s best to have it, just in case.
Safety in Berlin
Crime is generally pretty low in Berlin but, as in all cities, it’s important to be aware of your surroundings and to watch out for pickpockets, especially in crowded, tourist areas. Also be on the lookout for fake policemen. These people will pose as policemen around tourist attractions and seek to steal cash and credit cards. It’s recommended not to carry more cash on you than necessary. If you are approached by the police, you can always ask for an ID to confirm their identity.
How to Get Around in Berlin
Public Transportation in Berlin
The public transportation system in Berlin is made up of the metro (U-Bahn), local trains (S-Bahn), and buses which are all inclusive on the same ticket. Berlin is divided into different fare zones, but a majority of Berlin’s sites that you will likely travel to are within the AB fare zone. Make sure to validate your ticket as ticket checks on public transport are frequent and the fine is hefty. To validate your paper ticket, stamp it at one of the ticket machines located at the entrance to the U-Bahn, S-Bahn, and on buses. Public transport tickets are available at BVG (Berlin’s public transport company) sales points or on the BVG app. A single ticket is 3.50 euros and a 24-hour pass is 9.90 euros. Another great option for those travelling with companions is the the 24 hour ticket for small groups (5 max) for 33.30 euros.
By Car
Berlin is a large city and while it is still very walkable, attractions are spread out into different neighborhoods. If you don’t want to use public transportation, renting a car could be a good option for you. However, be warned – parking is in high demand and hard to find in the city. You may spend more time looking for a parking space than seeing the sights and pay a hefty price to do so. Prices vary, but you could pay up to 4 euros per hour for parking. Berlin does have Park & Ride parking lots on the edges of the city that easily connect you to public transportation if you are heading into Berlin by car from other places. Find more about all Berlin parking options here. If you’d prefer to have a driver for your visit to Berlin, reach out to us at info@insightcities.com.
From the Airport
To get from the Berlin airport to the city center, you can take the airport express train which runs from station Terminals 1 & 2 to Berlin Central Station. The S-Bahn S9 and S45 also run from Terminals 1 & 2 to city center. Costs for airport buses and trains vary from 5-10 euros depending on which option you choose. Detailed information about prices and transport can be found here. Otherwise you can book an Uber or book a vehicle transfer with us. Just drop us a line at info@insightcities.com for a quote.
From the Train Station
Berlin has three main train stations: Berlin Hauptbahnhof, Berlin Ostbahnhof, and Berlin Südkreuz, which offer easy connections to major cities across Germany and Europe. Berlin Hauptbahnhof is the main train station and is located in the Mitte district.
Important German Public Holidays & Store Closures
Germany has several public holidays which may affect public transportation schedules, museum opening hours, and store opening hours. A majority of stores are also closed on Sundays.
- New Year (January 1)
- International Women’s Day (March 8)
- Good Friday (late March or April)
- Easter Monday (late March or April)
- International Workers’ Day (May 1)
- End of the Second World War (May 8)
- Ascension Day (late April to early June)
- Whit Monday (May or June)
- Day of German Unity (October 3)
- Christmas Eve (December 24)
- Christmas (December 25)
- Boxing day (December 26)
Curious about the fall of the Berlin Wall and the reunification of West and East Berlin which is celebrated on the Day of Germany Unity? Read our blog post!
Visiting Berlin at a specific time of year? Check out our seasonal blog posts: Spring, Summer, Autumn, Winter.
Emergency Services
In the minor chance that you should end up in an emergency situation while in Berlin, it’s good to know who to contact. The general emergency number for the European Union is 112, which connects you directly to an English-speaking operator. If you specifically need the police, the emergency number in Germany is 110.
General Etiquette
As in all cities, it’s important to remember that while you are a visitor, Berlin is also the home of many people who live and work in the city every day. Do your best to keep the city clean and pleasant for visitors and locals alike. Respect local quiet hours and be aware of your surroundings.
Smoking is banned in all public spaces, public transport, and at public transport stops and stations. Restaurants are also subject to the Non Smoking Act, but some have a permit to allow smoking in separate, designated room.
Basic Phrases in German
Hello! —> Guten Tag!
Thank you —-> Danke
Please/You’re Welcome —–> Bitte
Goodbye —-> Auf Wiedersehn
Cheers! —–> Prost!
Tipping in Berlin
For taxis, restaurants, and hairdressers, the usual tip is about 10%. For porters at hotels, the expectation is two to three Euros per luggage item. For room maids, two to three Euros per day.
Berlin Neighborhoods
Curious about Berlin’s diverse neighborhoods? Our favorites are listed below with the top sights you can find in each.
Mitte
Mitte means “middle” in German and this neighborhood is the center of everything. Housing many of Berlin’s main tourist attractions like the Brandenburg Gate, the Reichstag, Museum Island, and the Berlin Cathedral, you’ll definitely visit Mitte during your time in the city. Prices here are also a bit higher than in other districts simply because of its central location and tourist attractions.
Neukölln
This area is known for its multicultural atmosphere, creative scene, and bustling nightlife. It is home to a mix of trendy cafes, bars, and restaurants as well as parks, markets, and street art. Neukölln has a strong sense of community with many events and initiatives taking place throughout the year for the neighborhood.
Prenzlauer Berg
Prenzlauer Berg is another trendy and vibrant district, known for its cobblestone streets, historic architecture, hip cafes, bars and boutiques. It’s recent gentrification, beautiful parks and green spaces – Mauerpark and Volkspark Freidrichschain especially – are a magnet for young professionals and families.
Friedrichshain-Kreuzberg
This eclectic district is known for its alternative culture, artistic spirit, and fabulous nightlife. Located in the former east Berlin, Friedrichshain-Kreuzberg is a melting pot of cultures with a diverse population and thriving music and arts scene. Popular sites include the East Side Gallery, a section of the Berlin Wall covered in murals by international artists. Want to experience this legendary counterculture district? Join our Kreuzberg tour and learn more!
Charlottenburg-Wilmersdorf
Located in the western part of Berlin, Charlottenburg-Wilmersdorf is known for upscale shopping streets, including the famous Kurfürstendamm, as well as beautiful parks and green spaces such as Tiergarten and Charlottenburg Palace. The neighborhood is also home to the Berlin Zoo and the Deutsche Oper Berlin.
Spandau
Spandau is a historic district known for charming old town streets, quaint shops, and waterfront views along the Havel River. Here you’ll find the Spandau Citadel, a well-preserved medieval fortress. Expect to choose from the many restaurants, cafes, and cultural attractions which make this district a popular destination for locals and visitors alike.
Pankow
Located in the northeast part of Berlin, Pankow is known for green spaces, historic architecture, and dynamic cultural scene. Landmarks in the area include the Schönhausen Palace and the Pankow Village Church. With a mix of eclectic local cafes and shops, Pankow offers a different side of Berlin to visitors.
Is there a question you have or a topic we didn’t cover here that you’re curious about? Check out our other Berlin blog posts or feel free to reach out to us at info@insightcities.com! We are happy to answer any questions about your upcoming trip to Berlin.