Travelers' pro tips for experiencing Berlin

ECTQuirk

Berlin is quite cheap to be fair, the travel tickets are 34 euros for five days and covers all areas of the city. U-Bahn, S-Bahn, buses, trams and mainline trains around the city. The ticket is called the Berlin Welcome Card and not only does it provide deals, it also gives you massive discounts on a huge scale for all attractions in the city.

Elena Z

Buy a 72-hour Berlin Welcome Card. This includes transport on all metro and bus lines, plus a 50% discount at most of Berlin's cultural sights.

Arja J

If you buy a ticket at the machines on the platforms, you must validate them before boarding the train. The tickets you buy on buses have a time stamp already.

In the words of those who've been there before ...

Bridget T

I loved the easy to use and efficient transport system. The German people seemed friendly and helpful and there are loads of things to see and do in Berlin. I will definitely visit again.

Mayzie1

Not the old fashioned, post-war government town at all. Great nightlife. Obviously an enormously interesting history both in the city sights and, in particular, the museums. Culturally diverse and lots of great restaurant options on both ends of town. Highly recommend this as a trip for families, particularly with teenaged kids who are able to appreciate the rich texture that is life in today's Berlin.

freutmich

Berlin is one of my favorite European destinations. From the city's energy and distinctive vibe to its role as an epicenter of both World War II and Cold War history, this is a city that can't be missed!

What is the best way to get there?

Flying:

Berlin is served by two airports; Berlin Tegel (TXL) in the northwest and Berlin Schoenefeld (SXN) in the southeast.

Train:

If arriving in Berlin by train from other major cities in Europe, you’ll disembark at Central Station (Hauptbahnhof). To plan your route and check timetables, use this link.

Do I need a visa?

If you’re visiting Berlin from outside of the EU, check if you need a visa here.

When is the best time to visit?

Summer (May-September) For weather that’s ideal for sitting in beer gardens and wandering around Berlin’s parks, visit during the summer of months of May to September. To avoid peak crowds, head to the capital outside of the European summer school holidays, which span July and August.

Berlin hosts an exciting program of cultural events throughout the year as well, including the Festival of Lights and Jazzfest Berlin in October. Or, travelers can browse postcard-worthy Christmas markets in December, and, of course, don’t miss the Berlin International Beer Festival in August.

For more information on Berlin’s weather and when to go, check out some tips here.

Bus

Public buses in Berlin are regular and easy-to-use. The double-decker 100 bus passes top Berlin sights such as Brandenburg Gate, Reichstag, Berlin Zoo, and Tiergarten. Check this website for more info on bus timetables.

Train

Berlin has both a U-Bahn (subway and underground ) and S-Bahn (light-rail) network. To plan your journey, go here.

Trams

Berlin has a tram network that’s interlinked to the trains and bus systems. The vending machines for tram tickets only accept cash.

Ridesharing

Drive2Day, WunderCar, and Uber are all readily available in Berlin.