General Guide
Landmark
Park
Museum
Culture
Sightseeing
Restaurant
Berlin is the capital and largest city of Germany, by both area and population. It has the highest population within its city limits of any city in the European Union. The urban area of Berlin has a population of over 4.5 million and is therefore the most populous urban area in Germany. The Berlin-Brandenburg capital region has around 6.2 million inhabitants and is Germany's second-largest metropolitan region after the Rhine-Ruhr region, and the fifth-biggest metropolitan region by GDP in the European Union.
Expert tips
Visa and Documentation
•For EU citizens, no visa is required; just bring your national ID card or passport.
•Travelers from many non-EU countries (e.g., the U.S., Canada, Australia) can visit Germany visa-free for up to 90 days within a 180-day period.
•Ensure your passport is valid for at least six months beyond your planned departure date.
•Non-EU travelers should check the Schengen visa requirements if a visa is necessary.
How to Get There
•By Airplane: Berlin Brandenburg Airport (BER) is the main international gateway, well-connected to the city by trains, buses, and taxis.
•By Train: Berlin Hauptbahnhof (Main Station) offers connections to major German and European cities via high-speed trains.
•By Car: Berlin is accessible via the extensive German Autobahn network, though parking in the city center can be expensive.
Budget
•Backpackers: €50–€70 per day (hostels, public transport, street food).
•Mid-range travelers: €100–€150 per day (mid-range hotels, casual dining, entry tickets).
•Luxury travelers: €200+ per day (boutique hotels, fine dining, private tours).
Getting Around
•Public Transport: Berlin has an extensive network of U-Bahn (subway), S-Bahn (light rail), trams, and buses that cover the entire city.
•Biking: Berlin is a bike-friendly city with numerous dedicated bike lanes.
•Walking: Many central attractions are within walking distance, especially in the Mitte district.
•Taxi/Ride-Sharing: Apps like Bolt and Uber are widely available for convenient travel.
During Your Visit
•Best Time: Spring (April to June) and autumn (September to October) offer mild weather and fewer tourists. Summers are lively but crowded, while winters are cold but atmospheric.
•Local Cuisine: Try currywurst, schnitzel, and doner kebabs at local food stands or traditional German restaurants.
•Shopping: Visit the trendy boutiques in Mitte or explore flea markets like Mauerpark for unique finds.
•Cultural Norms: Berliners are casual and friendly but appreciate punctuality. Learn a few basic German phrases, though English is widely spoken.