A rebellious city that refuses to play by the rules, it’s hard to pick the best time to visit Berlin. One month, you’re sipping mulled wine at a Christmas market by Charlottenburg Palace, and the next, you’re dancing at an open-air party along the Spree River. From biking through golden autumn parks to late-night lakeside dancing at Müggelsee in the summer, Berlin is full of reasons to visit any time of year. This month-by-month guide to Berlin breaks down what each season has in store to inspire the ultimate trip.
Choosing the best time to go to Berlin
Best time for outdoor lovers
If you love the outdoors, the best time to visit Berlin is any time between April and September. Visit in winter only if you have room for a thick coat in your luggage.
Best time for people on a budget
Berlin is the cheapest in the winter but brings an average of two hours of sunshine daily. Choose the spring or autumn instead and skimp on costs elsewhere.
Best time for sightseeing
Head to Berlin in May or June if you want fewer crowds and gorgeous weather. Visit the city during September or October to catch the tail end of the summer season and its many festivities.
Berlin throughout the seasons
Spring in Berlin
March to May
Spring in Berlin brings the first hints of warmth, transforming parks and riversides as flowers bloom and the city begins to feel alive. Celebrate the season’s rebirth with Walpurgis Night, an ancient pagan tradition featuring bonfires and “Tanz in den Mai” (Dance into May) celebrations.
Summer in Berlin
June to August
With long, warm days, summer in Berlin is ideal for open-air movie screenings and lakeside hangouts at Müggelsee. The Christopher Street Day Parade transforms Berlin Mitte into a massive celebration of LGBTQ+ pride. Spend a relaxed afternoon in the parks of Kreuzkölln and along the Spree River, where locals swim and sunbathe.
Fall in Berlin
September to November
Fall in Berlin blends mild days with a touch of crispness, setting the stage for Unity Day on October 3, marking Germany’s reunification. For Berlin — a city divided until 1990 — this public holiday is a big deal, with street marches, live music concerts, and events across iconic spots like Brandenburg Gate.
Winter in Berlin
December to February
Berlin in winter is chilly but full of life, especially on New Year’s Eve, when the city’s major districts like Kreuzberg, Friedrichshain, and Neukölln see street parties and fireworks. Clubs like Tresor host legendary events, while open squares fill with revelers ringing in the new year.