Berlin travel guide
Berlin is a city of history and reinvention: the Brandenburg Gate, remnants of the Wall, world-class museums and a famous food, art and nightlife scene spread across distinct neighbourhoods.
Best time to visit Berlin
May to September is the warmest period, with long evenings, open-air cinemas and beer gardens.
Winter is cold and grey but brings Christmas markets in December. Museums and cafés make it a good year-round city.
Getting to Berlin
Berlin Brandenburg Airport (BER) is linked to the centre by the FEX airport express and regional trains in about 30 minutes, plus S-Bahn lines. Most flights from the US connect through another European hub; some routes are direct.
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Getting around
U-Bahn, S-Bahn and trams
An integrated network covers the whole city. Tickets work across all of it; validate paper tickets before boarding, or use the BVG app. Zone AB covers the centre, ABC includes the airport.
By bike
Berlin is flat with many bike lanes, and rental bikes are everywhere.
Top things to do in Berlin
1. Brandenburg Gate and the Reichstag
The city's symbol, steps from the Reichstag parliament building, whose glass dome can be visited free with advance online registration.
See tours & prices ›2. Museum Island
Five major museums on a UNESCO-listed island in the Spree, including the Pergamon and Neues Museum, home of the bust of Nefertiti.
See tours & prices ›3. Berlin Wall Memorial and East Side Gallery
A preserved stretch of the border strip on Bernauer Straße, and the longest remaining section of the Wall covered in murals.
See tours & prices ›4. Day trip to Potsdam
The palaces and gardens of Sanssouci, a UNESCO site reachable by S-Bahn or regional train.
See tours & prices ›Practical tips
- Many smaller bars, bakeries and shops are still cash-only; carry some euros.
- Most shops are closed on Sundays, though museums, restaurants and stations stay open.
- Check whether your ticket covers the zone you are travelling in; the airport is in zone C.
Berlin travel FAQ
How many days do you need in Berlin?
Three to four days covers the main historic sights, Museum Island and a couple of neighbourhoods. Add a day for Potsdam.
How do you get from BER airport to Berlin?
The FEX airport express and regional trains reach Berlin Hauptbahnhof in about 30 minutes; you need an ABC zone ticket.
When is the best time to visit Berlin?
May to September for warm weather and outdoor life, or December for the Christmas markets.