First time in Berlin: Top tips from sightseeing to dining

Ready to discover Berlin? Multi-cultural cuisine, world-famous landmarks, and countless fun things to do in Berlin bring travelers from all over the world to visit Germany’s capital. From Brandenburg Gate to the Berlin Wall to sprawling green parks, there isn’t just one thing that makes this city inspiring.

Make your first time in Berlin smooth and worry-free with travel tips, transportation guides, essential landmarks you shouldn’t miss, the best neighborhoods to explore, and the dishes to try, all in one place. Everything you’ll need and want to know about exploring Berlin is in this first-timer’s guide.

Berlin: Tips for first timers

• Carry cash with you, as not all cafes, bars, and small businesses accept card payments
• Most shops, including grocery stores, are closed on Sundays, so plan ahead accordingly
• The U-Bahn (subways) stops running around midnight, but night buses (marked with an “N”) and night trains are available for late-night travel
• The S-Bahn (trains) covers a wider area than the U-Bahn and is ideal for traveling longer distances or reaching destinations like the airport or Potsdam
• The tram operates 24/7, and its lines always have an “M” before the number, for example, M13. Trams are ideal for shorter, local trips around the city. They make more frequent stops than the U- and S-Bahn and can be better for people with mobility issues
• Berlin’s tap water is safe to drink, so bringing a refillable bottle can save you money and help reduce plastic waste; look for the blue water fountains around the city to refill your bottle

Best time to visit

Berlin’s seasons offer vastly different experiences, from blooming parks in spring to magical German Christmas markets in winter. The best time to visit Berlin depends on your preferences — whether you’re after warm and sunny weather for exploring the city’s lake culture or prefer fewer crowds at the top landmarks in Berlin during the colder seasons (and are partial to Glühwein (German-style mulled wine)).

Spring

Spring in Berlin, from March to May, brings mild weather with blooming gardens and parks. Temperatures are comfortable, making it a perfect time for sightseeing and strolling around local markets and areas like Tiergarten. Spring also marks the start of outdoor events, festivals, and fairs.

Summer

From June to August, summer brings warmer temperatures and a lively atmosphere throughout the city. While you should be prepared for more crowds during this season, you’re also guaranteed longer daylight hours and the best weather for exploring Berlin’s parks, beer gardens, and lakes. Swimming in the Schlachtensee, for instance, is a must-do in Berlin during the summer. Many outdoor events, concerts, and street festivals also happen during the summertime in Berlin.

Fall

Fall in Berlin is from September to November and sees fewer tourists and cooler temperatures. Fall is ideal for museum-hopping around Berlin’s best museums and exploring historical sites without large crowds. The city’s fall foliage adds extra charm to parks like Volkspark Friedrichshain, and October brings the Festival of Lights.

Winter

Temperatures can drop to around 32 F (0 C) during Berlin's infamous winters (December to February). Though it can be chilly, the city transforms into a winter wonderland with its famous Christmas markets, like those at Charlottenburg Palace and Gendarmenmarkt.

Berlin’s top 5 must-visit attractions

1. Brandenburg Gate

The neoclassical 18th-century Brandenburg Gate symbolizes Berlin’s reunification and is one of the city’s most photographed spots.

2. TV Tower (Fernsehturm)

The TV Tower in Alexanderplatz is just as impressive from the outside as it is from the inside, where 360-degree panoramas of the Berlin skyline await.

3. Museum Island

Museum Island, located in the heart of Berlin on the Spree River, houses five world-renowned museums, letting you explore everything from ancient artifacts to classical art in one location.

4. Berlin Wall Memorial

The Berlin Wall Memorial tells the essential story of the division of Berlin with original wall segments and an open-air exhibition.

5. Reichstag Building

The seat of the German Parliament, the Reichstag, offers elegant rooftop dining and sweeping views of Berlin from its glass dome.

Best 3 neighborhoods to explore in Berlin

Mitte

As the city’s central district, Mitte is filled with things to do in Berlin for first-timers, including attractions like the Brandenburg Gate, Museum Island, and Alexanderplatz. As one of the best neighborhoods in Berlin, it’s perfect for first-timers looking to immerse themselves in Berlin’s cultural heart.

Kreuzberg

For evening and nighttime activities in Berlin, look no further than Kreuzberg. Known for its alternative vibe and multicultural flair, it’s a lively neighborhood filled with street art, quirky cafés, and an energetic nightlife scene. Things to do in Kreuzberg range from exploring the Turkish Market along the Landwehr Canal to hopping around the area’s hip bars.

Prenzlauer Berg

With its leafy streets, boutique shops, and bohemian vibe, there are many things to do in Prenzlauer Berg. The neighborhood is known for being a great area to explore with kids. You’ll find plenty of family-friendly spots like Mauerpark, where you can enjoy open-air karaoke and browse the Sunday flea market.

What to eat in Berlin

Finding the best food in Berlin is as simple as stepping outside, whether you fancy German currywurst or a tall glass of local beer. While traditional German staples like sausages and pretzels are popular, the city’s food scene also embraces international influences from Turkish, Vietnamese, and Middle Eastern cuisines. Wherever you go, tasting the local cuisine is a must-do in Berlin.

Main dishes to try

1. Currywurst

A must-try comfort street food made up of grilled sausage smothered in curry-flavored ketchup.

2. Schnitzel

Breaded and fried, this classic dish was originally made with pork but now has other meat and even veggie varieties, and is often paired with beer.

3. Berliner pfannkuchen

A jam-filled donut that’s especially popular during New Year’s celebrations.

4. Döner keba

Berlin’s favorite fast food, brought by Turkish immigrants, features spiced meat, fresh veggies, and tangy sauces.

5. Kartoffelsalat

A hearty potato salad that is often served as a side dish with schnitzel or bratwurst.

Getting to Berlin

Berlin Brandenburg Airport (BER) is the main entry point for flights into the city. Book a time slot with BER Runway to save time in the security line when departing from Terminal 1. Depending on where you are coming from, you can also reach Berlin by the Deutsche Bahn, Germany’s long-distance train, but keep an eye on the train schedule or use a transportation app as these trains are notorious for being late or canceled.

Flying into Berlin Brandenburg Airport

Berlin Brandenburg Airport (BER) is Berlin’s main international airport, well connected to the city by trains and buses. It’s a 30-minute train ride to the city center, and express buses are available for faster transfers.

Berlin Hauptbahnhof Station

Berlin’s central train station, Hauptbahnhof, is a major hub for both international and domestic travel. Located in the center of the city, it’s just a short distance from many of Berlin’s key attractions.

Getting around

For first-timers, getting around Berlin is fairly straightforward. There is an efficient public transportation system, with some systems running all night. There are also options for daily or weekly passes that make traveling more convenient and affordable.

Exploring Berlin on foot

Berlin is a walkable city, especially in areas like Mitte and Prenzlauer Berg, where many attractions are clustered close together. The city has many popular walking routes, such as from the East Side Gallery to Mauerpark. Joining a walking tour is one of the best things to do in Berlin for first timers, with themed options ranging from street art to World War II.

Bear in mind, however, that while central Berlin is walkable, the city itself is vast, and visiting more distant areas may require either a rental car or public transportation.

Public transportation in Berlin

Berlin’s public transportation system includes buses, trams, the U-Bahn, and S-Bahn that connect all major areas. For longer stays, consider a weekly pass to save on travel costs. Berlin transportation cards and passes, such as the Berlin WelcomeCard, offer unlimited travel on public transportation and discounts on attractions.

What to avoid in Berlin

1. Careful not to jaywalk — Berliners take pedestrian traffic rules seriously, and crossing the street outside of designated areas can lead to fines
2. Avoid taking taxis in Berlin for short distances. These can be expensive, so stick to public transportation or walk if you can
3. Steer clear of restaurants around Brandenburg Gate. These tend to be overpriced and less authentic. Instead, explore local neighborhoods like Kreuzberg or Neukölln for better food at lower prices
4. Don’t assume all places accept credit cards. Berlin still has a strong cash culture, so always have some euros on hand for small shops, restaurants, and bars
5. Avoid riding bikes on sidewalks because it’s illegal. Stick to the designated bike lanes throughout the city to avoid fines and accidents

First-timer’s guide to Berlin: FAQs

How many days should I spend in Berlin as a first-time visitor?

For your first time in Berlin, spending three to four days is ideal. This length allows you to visit landmarks like the Berlin Wall Memorial, the Jewish Museum, and the Olympic Stadium. You can also explore neighborhoods and museums without feeling rushed. Consider adding a day if you want to take a day trip to nearby attractions like Potsdam.

What’s the tipping policy in Berlin?

Tipping is appreciated but not mandatory. A standard tip for good service is around 5-10% of the total bill, or you can round up to the nearest euro when paying in restaurants or cafes. For taxi drivers, rounding up the fare is customary. In bars, leaving small change is often sufficient.

Where’s a good area to stay in Berlin?

Mitte is the best area overall for first-time visitors to stay in Berlin, as it’s centrally located and close to major attractions. Alternatives include Kreuzberg, with its lively atmosphere and nightlife, and Prenzlauer Berg, which has a quieter atmosphere, charming cafes, and green spaces.

What are the best free things to do in Berlin?

There are many free things to do in Berlin. One of the best free things to do is explore the East Side Gallery, which features murals on the remnants of the Berlin Wall. You can also walk through Tiergarten Park, explore the Reichstag Building’s glass dome (advance registration required), and visit the Memorial to the Murdered Jews of Europe, all for free. Many of Berlin’s outdoor landmarks and memorials are free to explore.

Do I need to book restaurants in advance in Berlin?

Booking a restaurant in advance isn’t always necessary in Berlin, but it’s recommended if you’re dining at a popular spot or on weekends. Reservations are advised for restaurants in popular areas like Mitte and Kreuzberg, especially during peak tourist seasons. For more casual dining, you can often find a table without a reservation.