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Must do's and try's in Berlin
Dive into the vibrant tapestry of Berlin, where every corner invites you to taste, explore, and experience the quirks of this eclectic city. From delicious bites to unexpected adventures, Berlin is a playground for the curious foodie and the culture-hungry traveler alike. So, put on your walking shoes (and maybe stretchy pants) as we uncover the must-try experiences that make this city a true gem.
- Currywurst: No visit to Berlin is complete without indulging in this iconic street food. Picture this: a juicy sausage smothered in a tangy curry ketchup, served with crispy fries. Grab it from a local vendor and eat it like a true Berliner—standing up, of course!
- Street Art Tour: Get lost in the colorful world of Berlin’s street art on a guided tour. Discover hidden murals, graffiti masterpieces, and the stories behind them. You might even want to channel your inner Banksy and leave your mark—though, you know, legally.
- Prater Garten: Tucked away in Prenzlauer Berg, this historic beer garden is the perfect spot for a sunny afternoon. Grab a local brew and some pretzels while soaking in the laid-back vibe. Bonus points if you can spot the giant chestnut trees that keep this place cool on hot days!
- Spreepark Adventure: Venture into this abandoned amusement park for an unexpected thrill. Explore the rusting rides and overgrown paths, all while imagining the laughter that once filled the air. Just watch out for ghosts—or, you know, other explorers looking for a selfie!
Berlin is not just a city; it’s a canvas of experiences waiting to be discovered. So, gear up for a flavor-packed adventure that’ll make your friends back home green with envy!
Sightseeing in Berlin
- Brandenburg Gate
- Berlin Wall Memorial
- Reichstag Building
- Checkpoint Charlie
- East Side Gallery
- Berlin Cathedral
- Kurfürstendamm (for when you need to shop till you drop!)
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What to do in Berlin?
Where to go?
The best areas in Berlin
Berlin is a city of contrasts, where the old meets the new, and every corner reveals a different story. Exploring its diverse districts is like flipping through an eclectic photo album—each snapshot bursting with character and tales to tell. Here are some areas that are not just worth your time but are practically begging for a selfie.
Friedrichshain
This vibrant district is the hipster’s paradise, where street art adorns every corner and clubs pulse with life until dawn. Don’t miss the East Side Gallery, a 1.3 km stretch of the Berlin Wall that’s more colorful than your grandma’s quilt collection!
Kreuzberg
Home to a multicultural vibe and a food scene that could make a Michelin star weep, Kreuzberg is where you can enjoy everything from Turkish kebabs to vegan donuts. Just try not to get lost in the labyrinth of quaint streets unless you’re ready for an impromptu adventure!
Charlottenburg
For those craving a touch of elegance, this area offers chic boutiques and the stunning Charlottenburg Palace. Stroll through its gardens and pretend you’re a royal—just beware of the pigeons; they might not be as impressed as you think.
Mitte
The heart of Berlin, Mitte is where history, culture, and shopping collide in a delightful chaos. With attractions like the Brandenburg Gate and Museum Island, it’s perfect for those who want to soak up the sights... and then promptly forget where they parked their bike.
Wedding
Once considered the underdog of Berlin districts, Wedding is now emerging as the cool kid on the block. With its eclectic mix of cultures and a burgeoning art scene, it's like discovering a hidden gem—just be prepared to explain to your friends why you found it 'first.'
Transportation tips
How to get around in Berlin
Berlin’s transportation system is as extensive as its history, making it easy to navigate the city. Whether you're hopping on a bus or pedaling through the streets, getting around is straightforward and often quite enjoyable.
Public Transport
Berlin's public transport is reliable and well-connected, with U-Bahn (subway), S-Bahn (light rail), trams, and buses covering the city extensively. Consider getting a Berlin Welcome Card for unlimited travel within selected zones—ideal if you plan to hop around frequently!
The basic fare is around €3.40 for a single ticket, or you can grab a day pass for about €9.30. Discounts apply for children under 14, so don't forget to bring the kids!
Taxi Services
Taxis in Berlin are readily available and can be flagged down or booked via apps. They are a great option for late-night travel or if you have heavy luggage. Just remember, they charge by the meter, so keep an eye on that little taxi meter if you want to avoid surprises!
€3.90, with an average cost of €1.80 per kilometer. It’s more expensive than public transport, but sometimes you just need to sit back and let someone else do the driving.
Biking
Berlin is a bike-friendly city with dedicated lanes and plenty of bike rental options. Rent a bike from various providers throughout the city or use a bike-sharing app for convenience. It’s a fun way to see the sights at your own pace while getting some exercise!
Bike rentals typically cost around €10 per day, and bike-sharing schemes often charge about €1 to unlock plus €0.15 per minute. Just remember to lock it up and keep an eye on your ride!
Plan your journey
Ready-to use itineraries for Berlin
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Get to know Berlin
Frequently asked questions about Berlin
Can I drink alcohol on the S-Bahn?
Absolutely, but don’t be a jerk. In Berlin, drinking on public transport is legal, but there are unwritten rules. Don’t be the one blasting music or spilling beer everywhere. Keep it chill and you’ll fit right in.
Why is my hotel room so hot in winter?
Welcome to the sauna. Many hotels in Berlin have central heating that can turn your room into a tropical paradise. If you’re sweating bullets, check for a window that opens—most do. Or just embrace the warmth; it’s cheaper than a spa day!
What’s the deal with the Berlin Wall graffiti?
It’s not all art; some is just vandalism. The East Side Gallery is a famous stretch of the Wall covered in murals, but don’t be fooled. Some of it is pure graffiti, and not the good kind. If you’re looking for meaningful art, read the plaques before snapping pics.
Can I use my credit card everywhere?
Not even close. Despite being a modern city, Berlin is still in love with cash. Many small shops, cafes, and even some restaurants only accept cash. Always have some euros on hand, or prepare for awkward moments at the register.
Is it true that Berliners are rude?
Not rude, just direct. Berliners value honesty over niceties. If someone seems blunt, it’s not personal; they’re just being efficient. Embrace the straightforwardness, and you might even find it refreshing. Just don’t take it to heart!
What’s the weirdest food I should try?
Try currywurst with a side of confusion. This iconic Berlin street food is basically sausage with curry ketchup. It sounds odd, but it’s a must-try. Just prepare for the existential crisis that comes from eating something so simple yet so beloved.
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Community Q&A
Got a question about Berlin? Fire away!
What makes Berlin special isn't the typical postcard-perfect beauty you might find in Munich or Heidelberg - it's the incredible energy, diversity, and creative spirit that pulses through the city. Berlin has this amazing ability to reinvent itself while honoring its complex history.
For food lovers like us, Berlin is paradise! The city's international vibe means you can find everything from traditional German fare to incredible Vietnamese, Turkish, and Middle Eastern cuisine. Some of our favorite food experiences have been at Markthalle Neun's Street Food Thursday, where local vendors serve up amazing small plates from around the world. The Turkish food scene in Kreuzberg is phenomenal - we still dream about the döner kebabs that put anything you'll find elsewhere to shame. And don't even get me started on the brunch culture - Berliners have elevated weekend brunching to an art form!
And if you love techno music, Berlin is an absolute MUST-VISIT! The city is basically the global capital of techno culture. Places like Berghain (yes, the famously hard-to-get-into club) offer some of the most authentic and mind-blowing electronic music experiences on the planet. But even beyond the famous spots, there are countless smaller venues where you can dance until sunrise - or well into the next day. The techno scene here isn't just about music; it's a cultural movement that's deeply woven into Berlin's identity. Even if you're not planning to club all weekend, the influence of this scene touches everything from the art to the fashion to the overall vibe of the city.
Beyond food, what makes Berlin worth visiting is its authenticity. The city doesn't try to be pretty or perfect. It embraces its gritty edges, street art, and abandoned spaces turned into creative hubs. We've stumbled upon the most amazing art galleries in old factory buildings and enjoyed incredible techno in clubs housed in former power stations. There's this sense that anything is possible in Berlin.
The history is also fascinating - walking along the remnants of the Berlin Wall, visiting the Holocaust Memorial, or touring the Reichstag offers powerful moments of reflection that you just don't get in cities that haven't experienced such dramatic historical shifts.
So if you're looking for picture-perfect cobblestone streets, Berlin might disappoint. But if you want a city that feels alive, authentic, and constantly evolving - with an amazing food scene to boot - Berlin will absolutely blow you away.
Love, Merel
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