Berlin

Germany

Berlin offers a unique blend of history, art, and vibrant nightlife. Its rich past is visible in landmarks, while its creative spirit shines through its diverse cultural scene and innovative startups.

Quick Facts

Recommended Stay4 days
Budget$60/day
Mid-range$150/day
Luxury$600/day

Known For

Brandenburg GateReichstag BuildingEast BerlinWest BerlinPotsdamGermany capitalEuropean cityhistoric citycultural center

🇩🇪 Country Information: Germany

CapitalBerlin
CurrencyEuro (€)
LanguageGerman , English
Phone Code+49
Electricity230V (Type C, F)
Tap WaterSafe to drink

Tipping

  • Tipping is customary but not mandatory; typically 5
  • 10% in restaurants and for taxi drivers
  • For hairdressers or other services, rounding up or a small tip is common
  • For hotel staff, a small tip for good service is appreciated

Money & Payments

  • ATMs are widely available, especially in urban areas
  • Credit cards are widely accepted, but cash is still preferred in many smaller establishments and for small purchases
  • It is generally better to use ATMs for cash, but having some euros upon arrival is useful
  • There is no black market for cash

Cultural Norms

  • Punctuality is highly valued
  • Direct communication is common and appreciated
  • "Sie" (formal "you") is used with strangers and in professional settings; "du" (informal "you") is used with friends and family
  • Recycling is a strong cultural norm and widely practiced
  • Sunday is a day of rest, with most shops closed

LGBTQ+ Information

Generally LGBTQ+ friendly. Germany has a high degree of LGBTQ+ friendliness and strong legal protections, including same-sex marriage.

Alcohol & Drug Laws

  • Legal drinking age is 16 for beer and wine, 18 for spirits
  • Drug laws are strict, with penalties for possession and trafficking
  • While cannabis is being legalized, regulations are still evolving

Special Laws

  • Jaywalking is illegal and can result in fines
  • It is illegal to litter
  • Public consumption of alcohol is generally permitted, but can be restricted in certain areas or during events
  • Public nudity is not permitted
  • Respect quiet hours, especially on Sundays and at night

Common Phrases

NoNein (nyn)
YesJa (yah)
HelloHallo (hah-loh)
PleaseBitte (bit-tuh)
Excuse meEntschuldigung (ent-shool-dee-goong)
Thank youDanke (dahn-kuh)

Climate

Climate Zone: Continental Cool

Best Time to Visit

Getting There

Getting Around

Health & Vaccinations

Staying Connected

Local Cuisine

Currywurst must_try

A German pork sausage, chopped, and covered in a flavorful and mildly spicy curry tomato sauce. It is considered Berlin's most popular fast food, ofte

Döner Kebab street_food

A Turkish fusion dish made with seasoned beef or lamb sliced from a vertical spit, served inside a toasted pita wrap with vegetables (like lettuce and

Pfannkuchen dessert

Berlin's version of a doughnut, traditionally deep-fried and filled with jam (like plum or strawberry) or custard. In Berlin, they are widely availabl

Eisbein regional_speciality

Cured and softly cooked ham hock (pork knuckle) loved for its juicy texture, often served with traditional Berlin home-cooking sides like mushy peas a

Berliner Luft alcohol

A liqueur with an intense, sweet taste of peppermint. The name literally translates to 'Berlin air' and it is a staple shot order at many pubs in the

Book in Advance

Plan ahead for the best experience. Here's what to book before your trip:

🔴 Must Book in Advance

Berlin TV Tower (Berliner Fernsehturm) Skip-the-Line Ticket Attraction
Book 2 weeks to 2 months in advance

Timed entry tickets for the popular observation deck, especially during sunset or high season, sell out well in advance, saving significant waiting time.

Reichstag Dome (Bundestag) Visit Attraction
Book 3 weeks to 3 months in advance

Entry to the dome is free but requires advance online registration and security clearance, and time slots book up quickly for specific dates.

🟡 Recommended to Book Ahead

Pergamon Museum Timed-Entry Ticket Attraction
Book 1–4 weeks in advance

As one of Museum Island's most famous sites, timed entry tickets are essential to guarantee a slot, particularly during busy travel seasons.

High-Demand Fine Dining Reservations Dining
Book 2 weeks to 2 months in advance

Berlin's top Michelin-starred and highly reviewed restaurants often require reservations weeks or months ahead, especially for weekend dinner slots.

Fun Facts

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