10 Things to Know Before Visiting Berlin

Are you planning a trip to Berlin soon? If yes, then this blog post is for you. As a true Berliner I thought that I could share my local knowledge to make your time in my hometown easier. I hope these tips will save you some time and will help you feeling less lost. Here are my top ten things that you should know before visiting Berlin:

1. Public transportation is your friend.
   It will bring you quickly anywhere at anytime. Quick Tip: Instead of taking an expensive tourist bus, ride with the bus line 100. It covers most of the famous sightseeing spots at a much cheaper price.
2. Berlin is cheap.
   Being a tourist in a European capital can be expensive. Compared to cities like London or Paris, Berlin is way cheaper. You pay less for eating out, for your accommodation and everything else.
3. Stores are closed on Sundays.
   Of course there are some exceptions, but usually it’s not the case. Quick Tip: A few supermarkets are open on Sundays, if you forgot to something on your grocery list.
4. Cash is the better options.
   Always make sure to have some cash with you. Credit cards are not widely accepted in Berlin. When eating out, you are always on the safe side with paying cash.
5. The best time to visit is in spring and summer.
   I love Berlin so much more during the warmer months of the year. Not only because the city becomes greener, but also due to the different atmosphere of the city. People seem less grumpy, happier and smile more!
6. You can party all day and night.
   Berlins club scene is known for it’s legendary clubs without curfew. Maybe you’ve heard of them before. You can find most of them in districts like Kreuzberg and Friedrichshain.
7. Berlin offers lots of vegan and vegetarian food.
   You can find most vegan and vegetarian friendly restaurants in Mitte, Prenzlauer Berg, Kreuzberg and Friedrichshain. One of my favorites is Daluma in Mitte.
8. Tips are not included.
   When eating out a tip of about 10% is expected, if you liked the service. The waiter usually comes and tells you your total. You pay and say the sum (your total + tip) and the waiter gives you the change.
9. Discover other districts.
   A lot of tourists only stay in the sightseeing districts and miss experiencing the “real” Berlin. Berlin has so much more to offer than that! Each district is different and unique in their own way.
10. You’re allowed to drink in public.
    I know that it is forbidden in some countries, but not in Germany. You are allowed to drink in public as long as you do not disturb anybody. The only exception is the public transportation system.

Have you already been in Berlin? Do you have any tips to share?

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