Berlin

Berlin isn't a city you just visit; it's a city you experience. The initial impression is often one of boundless creative energy set against a backdrop of raw, unavoidable history. It feels like a dozen different cities stitched together, with each neighborhood offering a completely different reality. The vibe is a unique mix of artistic freedom, historical weight, and a laid-back, almost rebellious spirit.

Berlin is a must-visit for its sheer honesty. The city doesn't hide its scars; it builds galleries and memorials on top of them, creating a powerful, living museum. Beyond the history, the creative scene is electric—from world-class galleries to impromptu street art. The nightlife is legendary and truly diverse, and compared to other major European capitals, it's still surprisingly affordable. You can eat incredible food from all over the world, visit pivotal historical sites, and party in a repurposed power plant, all in one weekend.

Berliners are direct, which some might mistake for rudeness, but it's often an efficient honesty. There's a 'live and let live' attitude that's truly refreshing. It's an incredibly international city, so you'll hear languages from all over the world. While German is the official language, English is widely spoken, especially in the central districts and by younger people. That said, a simple "Hallo" and "Danke" are always appreciated.

The food scene in Berlin is a mirror of the city itself: diverse, unpretentious, and full of flavor. You absolutely have to try a Currywurst, a saucy, curried sausage that's a local obsession. The other quintessential Berlin fast food is the Döner Kebab, which was perfected here and is miles better than what you'll find elsewhere. Beyond the street food, there are incredible international options, especially Vietnamese and Turkish, and a fantastic street food market worth exploring called Markthalle Neun in Kreuzberg. Dining can be very affordable, but it's always good to have some cash on hand, as not everywhere accepts cards.

Berlin's public transport system (BVG) is fantastic and extensive, with the U-Bahn (subway) and S-Bahn (local trains) getting you almost anywhere. However, the infrastructure can show its age; stations can be gritty, and delays aren't unheard of. Internet is generally fast and reliable, but don't expect free public Wi-Fi everywhere. One thing to prepare for, especially in summer, is the lack of air conditioning in many older buildings, apartments, and even some shops and cafes. It's just not standard here.

The main gateway is Berlin Brandenburg Airport (BER). From there, the best way into the city is by train, which proves much more reliable than a taxi. The Airport Express (FEX) train and regional trains (RE7, RB14, RE8, RB23) are the fastest options, getting you to central stations like Hauptbahnhof or Alexanderplatz in about 30-40 minutes. You can also take the S-Bahn (S9 and S45 lines), which is slightly slower but connects to more places directly (around 45 minutes to Hauptbahnhof). You'll need a ticket for zones ABC.

The BVG public transport network is your best friend. It includes the U-Bahn, S-Bahn, trams, and buses, all on one ticket system. Berlin is divided into fare zones A, B, and C; for most tourist activities, an AB zone ticket is all you need. However, keep in mind that BER Airport is in zone C and requires an ABC ticket. A day pass (Tageskarte) or a 7-day pass (7-Tage-Karte) is usually the most economical choice if you're making more than two trips a day. As of early 2025, an AB single ticket costs €3.80, a 24-hour AB ticket is €10.60, and a 7-day AB ticket is €44.50. Remember to validate (stamp) your paper ticket in the machines on the platform or on the bus before your first journey to avoid a hefty fine. Central areas are very walkable, and bike and e-scooter sharing apps are popular. Ride-sharing apps like Uber operate in Berlin, but primarily with licensed professional drivers (UberX, UberBlack) rather than unlicensed private individuals.

Berlin is generally a very safe city, but it's not without its issues. The most common problem is pickpocketing, especially on crowded public transport and in tourist hubs like Alexanderplatz and the Brandenburg Gate. It's always wise to keep your wallet in a front pocket and hold your bag in front of you on the U-Bahn. There are also some known scams, like people posing as fake police officers, so always ask for ID if you're approached. Areas around certain train stations like Kottbusser Tor or Görlitzer Park can feel sketchy at night due to visible drug dealing and use, so while it's generally safe, it's recommended to be extra aware of your surroundings there.