Practical tips for visiting Berlin
Airport
Berlin Brandenburg Airport (BER), which finally opened in 2020 after years of delays, is south-east of the city. The FEX Airport Express train reaches Hauptbahnhof in about 30 minutes, and the RE7 and RB14 regional trains and S-Bahn lines S9 and S45 also serve it. You need an ABC ticket because the airport lies in zone C. Taxis to the centre cost €50 to €70.
Public transport
BVG runs the U-Bahn, trams and buses, and Deutsche Bahn runs the S-Bahn. Most sights lie in zone AB. Buy tickets from machines or the BVG app, and remember that single tickets must be validated if printed without a time stamp; there are no barriers, but plainclothes inspectors fine fare dodgers €60. Day tickets, 7-day tickets and the Berlin WelcomeCard with museum discounts are available. The Deutschlandticket offers unlimited regional travel across Germany for a monthly subscription. Bus 100 and 200 follow scenic routes past major sights. The U-Bahn and S-Bahn run all night on weekends.
Best time to visit
May to September offers long days, beer gardens and open-air events; summer temperatures are often 24 to 28°C. Autumn is colourful, and the Festival of Lights illuminates landmarks in October. Winter is cold and grey, around 0 to 4°C, but Christmas markets such as Gendarmenmarkt and Charlottenburg Palace compensate. Big events include the Berlinale in February, Karneval der Kulturen at Pentecost and Christopher Street Day in July.
Budget
Berlin is one of Western Europe's more affordable capitals, though prices have risen. Hostel beds run €25 to €45, mid-range doubles €100 to €180, and luxury hotels from €250. A beer in a Kneipe costs €3.50 to €5, a döner around €6 to €8, and lunch specials (Mittagstisch) €8 to €12. Many memorials and sites, including the Reichstag dome, the Wall Memorial and the Holocaust memorial, are free.
Cash
Germany still loves cash. Many bars, bakeries and small restaurants accept only cash or the German debit card system, so always carry some euros. Card acceptance has improved, but ask before ordering.
Sundays
Shops, including supermarkets, are closed on Sundays except in stations such as Hauptbahnhof and Friedrichstrasse. Plan groceries for Saturday, or visit a Späti, the late-night convenience stores that sell drinks and snacks.
Etiquette
Berliners can be famously blunt, a trait known as Berliner Schnauze; don't take it personally. Wait at red pedestrian lights even if the road is empty. Do not walk in bike lanes, which are often marked in red on the pavement. Return bottles for the Pfand deposit, or leave them beside bins for collectors.
Safety
Berlin is generally safe. Be alert for pickpockets at Alexanderplatz, Kottbusser Tor and on crowded trains, and in Görlitzer Park, known for drug dealing.
Tipping and dining
Tip around 5 to 10 percent by telling the server the total you want to pay rather than leaving money on the table. Many restaurants close kitchens by 22:00.
Tickets in detail
Berlin's BVG and S-Bahn network uses zones A, B and C. Zone A is inside the S-Bahn ring, B extends to the city limits, and C covers the surroundings, including BER Airport and Potsdam. An AB ticket is enough for most sightseeing. Paper tickets must be validated before boarding; mobile tickets in the BVG app are valid immediately. Fines are €60 for riding without a valid ticket.
Berlin WelcomeCard
The Berlin WelcomeCard combines public transport with discounts at attractions. The Museum Island pass gives entry to all museums there for three days. Many memorials and the Reichstag dome are free.
Reichstag dome
Visiting the glass dome of the Reichstag building, designed by Norman Foster, is free but requires online registration in advance with names. Bring ID for security checks.
Recycling and Pfand
Germany has a deposit (Pfand) of 25 cents on most plastic bottles and cans. Return them to supermarket machines. Some people collect bottles left near bins, so leave empties beside rather than in the bin.
Weather
Berlin has a continental climate: hot summers that can reach 30°C, cold winters with temperatures below freezing, and pleasant springs and autumns.
Health
EU visitors should carry their European Health Insurance Card. Pharmacies (Apotheke) operate a rota so one is always open nearby at night.
Cash still matters
Many Berlin bars, cafés and Späti shops still prefer cash or only accept German debit cards, though card acceptance has grown. Carry some euros.
Club tips
Clubs such as Berghain have strict door policies and photography bans. Dress casually, arrive in small groups and be respectful.
Sunday closures
Most shops close on Sundays, but supermarkets in main stations and Späti corner shops stay open.
Tickets
Validate paper tickets before boarding.
Emergencies
Dial 112 for fire and ambulance and 110 for police. Tap water is safe.
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