Berlin
Overview of Berlin
For most of the latter part of the 20th century, Berlin was emblematic of the division between East and West. When the Berlin Wall was brought down in 1989, the city had two very distinct societies, both socially and economically. However, more recent decades have seen Berlin embracing unification and rebuilding itself as a cosmopolitan, exciting and efficient modern European capital.
More than 100 streets have been reconnected, and signs of the Wall’s existence have all but disappeared. But years of division are still reflected in the new city’s architecture, with a modern city of skyscrapers, retail centres and urban developments in the West contrasting with the remains of the pre-war city in the East.
For nearly 30 years, the Wall sealed off the imposing Brandenburg Gate from the West, but now traffic passes through it freely. Similarly, Alexanderplatz, which was one of the main centres of 1920s Berlin and post-war East Germany, has once again become one of the city’s focal centres. The site of the infamous Checkpoint Charlie that ensured no one illegally crossed over from East to West is now a museum, and visitors can see the East Side Gallery, a surviving chunk of the Wall riotously decorated by street artists.
Apart from its unique historical status, Berlin is once again a vibrant centre for the arts, with many museums, galleries and theatres. At the Kulturforum, visitors will find a number of impressive museums and concert venues from the spectacular Berliner Philharmonie concert hall to the Picture Gallery, which houses a vast collection of European paintings from the 13th to 18th centuries.
Berlin also boasts a fantastic nightlife, enjoying a vast array of venues and scenes catering to an extreme range of tastes and delights. Berlin’s calendar is packed with festivals and parties, from the Berlin Pride Celebration in June to Jazz Fest Berlin in November. All this contributes to an ever-evolving city, which ensures no two holidays to Berlin are ever the same.
Key Facts
- Language:
- German is the official language. English is also widely spoken and understood.
- Passport/Visa:
The borderless region known as the Schengen Area includes the following countries: Austria, Belgium, Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Iceland, Italy, Latvia, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, The Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden, and Switzerland. All these countries issue a standard Schengen visa that has a multiple entry option, and which allows the holder to travel freely within the borders of all the aforementioned countries. Additionally, non-EEA members require proof of onward or return tickets, the necessary travel documentation for their next destination, and sufficient funds to support themselves while in Germany. Citizens of Australia, Canada, Israel, Japan, New Zealand, Switzerland, and the USA are exempt from the requirement to hold onward tickets.
It is highly recommended that travellers’ passports have at least six months’ validity remaining after the intended date of departure from their travel destination. Immigration officials often apply different rules to those stated by travel agents and official sources.
- Currency:
The unit of currency is the Euro (EUR), divided into 100 cents. ATMs and exchange bureaux are widely available. The major credit cards are widely accepted in large shops, hotels and restaurants. The quickest and most convenient way to change money is to obtain cash from one of the ATMs that are ubiquitous features on all German streets. Banks are closed on weekends, but exchange bureaux at airports and main railway stations are open daily.
- Electricity:
- 230 volts, 50Hz. European-style two-pin plugs are standard.
Travel to Berlin
Climate for Berlin
Berlin has a continental climate with cold winters, hot summers and mild autumn and spring seasons. The weather in summer (June to August) is mostly pleasant and sunny, with long days and temperatures averaging 73F (23C), but Berlin’s climate is unpredictable and the weather can rapidly change. Winters (December to February) can be cold and damp, with the temperature hovering around freezing. Snow falls between December and March, but Berlin seldom stays covered in snow for long. Rain can fall all year round and it is always a good idea to have an umbrella in Berlin, no matter what the season. The wettest months are June and August, and the driest months on average are October and February. Berlin is a year-round travel destination because so much of the city’s appeal lies in its cultural and historical attractions, which are fabulous regardless of the weather. The most popular time to visit Berlin is in the summer months when the sidewalk cafes, parks and gardens can be enjoyed to the utmost and there are numerous fun summer events.
7 day forecast for Land Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| Saturday Dec. 20, 2024 | Sunday Dec. 21, 2024 | Monday Dec. 22, 2024 | Tuesday Dec. 23, 2024 | Wednesday Dec. 24, 2024 | Thursday Dec. 25, 2024 | Friday Dec. 26, 2024 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Hi: 43°F Lo: 38°F  Overcast | Hi: 45°F Lo: 36°F Cloudy | Hi: 40°F Lo: 36°F Overcast | Hi: 40°F Lo: 34°F  Mostly cloudy | Hi: 40°F Lo: 32°F Mostly cloudy | Hi: 38°F Lo: 31°F Cloudy | Hi: 40°F Lo: 31°F  Morning clouds |
Health Notes when travelling to Germany
There are no serious health risks for visitors to Germany and no vaccinations are required. The German health service is excellent and there is a reciprocal health agreement with most EU countries, whose citizens are entitled to free medical and dental treatment on presentation of a European Health Insurance Card (EHIC). After Brexit, the Global Health Insurance Card (GHIC) replaced the European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) for UK citizens. The GHIC allows UK citizens access to state healthcare during visits to the EU. The GHIC is not valid in Norway, Iceland, Liechtenstein or Switzerland, nor is it an alternative to travel insurance. Nationals of other countries should take out travel insurance.
Safety Notes when travelling to Germany
A visit to Germany should be trouble free, but visitors should take normal precautions to avoid mugging, bag-snatching and pick-pocketing, especially at airports, railway stations and markets in the large cities.
Customs in Germany
Visitors are not required to carry their passports with them at all times in Germany, but carrying some form of identification is advised. Smoking in public places such as bars and restaurants is illegal.
Duty Free in Germany
Passengers arriving from EU countries can enter Germany without paying duty on 800 cigarettes or 400g cigarillos or 200 cigars or 1kg tobacco; 90 litres of still wine; 110 litres of beer; and 10 litres of alcohol stronger than 20 percent or 20 litres of fortified wine, sparkling wine or other liqueurs up to 22 percent.
Passengers arriving from non-EU countries, over the age of 17, can enter Germany without paying duty on 200 cigarettes or 100 cigarillos or 50 cigars or 250g smoking tobacco; 4 litres of wine and 16 litres of beer and 1 litre of spirits over 22 percent volume; or 2 litres of spirits under 22 percent volume. Other goods to the value of €430 for travellers arriving by air or sea, and €300 for travellers arriving by land.
Doing Business in Germany
In Germany, business is conducted in a formal manner, with a conservative and formal dress code being the norm. Punctuality is vital at all meetings and it’s considered rude to be late. Germans use titles often, with men referred to as ‘Herr’ and women as ‘Frau’, followed by their last names.
Meetings are often purely business and may not occur over lunches, which are generally more social. Shaking hands at the beginning and end of the meeting is common. Business hours are generally 9am to 6pm Monday to Friday, with an hour taken over lunch.
Communication in Germany
The international access code for Germany is +49. Travellers will find it easy to use a local SIM card, Skype, WhatsApp or similar apps. Free WiFi is available in most hotels, cafes and restaurants.
Tipping in Germany
German law stipulates that all prices, menus and bills include both tax and a service charge, so tipping is not necessary in restaurants. Cleaning staff, hairdressers, taxi drivers and other menial services appreciate small tips.
Passport/Visa Note
The borderless region known as the Schengen Area includes the following countries: Austria, Belgium, Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Iceland, Italy, Latvia, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, The Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden, and Switzerland. All these countries issue a standard Schengen visa that has a multiple entry option, and which allows the holder to travel freely within the borders of all the aforementioned countries. Additionally, non-EEA members require proof of onward or return tickets, the necessary travel documentation for their next destination, and sufficient funds to support themselves while in Germany. Citizens of Australia, Canada, Israel, Japan, New Zealand, Switzerland, and the USA are exempt from the requirement to hold onward tickets.
It is highly recommended that travellers’ passports have at least six months’ validity remaining after the intended date of departure from their travel destination. Immigration officials often apply different rules to those stated by travel agents and official sources.
Entry Requirements
- Entry requirements for Americans:
US citizens must have a passport that is valid for three months after the period of intended stay in Germany. A visa is not required for stays of up to 90 days within a 180 day period.
- Entry requirements for Canadians:
Canadian citizens must have a passport that is valid for three months beyond the period of intended stay in Germany. A visa is not required for stays of up to 90 days within a 180 day period.
- Entry requirements for UK nationals:
UK citizens must have a passport that is valid for three months after the period of intended stay in Germany. A visa is not required for stays of up to 90 days within a 180 day period.
- Entry requirements for Australians:
Australian citizens must have a passport that is valid for three months beyond the period of intended stay in Germany. A visa is not required for stays of up to 90 days within a 180 day period.
- Entry requirements for Irish nationals:
Irish citizens must have a passport that is valid on arrival in Germany. A visa is not required.
- Entry requirements for New Zealanders:
New Zealand citizens must have a passport that is valid for three months beyond the period of intended stay in Germany. A visa is not required for stays of up to 90 days within a 180 day period.
- Entry requirements for South Africans:
South African citizens must have a passport that is valid for three months beyond the intended period of stay, and a valid Schengen visa, to enter Germany. Note that Temporary passports will not be recognised.
Getting around in Berlin, Germany
The Berlin public transport system is efficient, if expensive, and the combination of buses, trams, ferries, the U-Bahn (underground) and S-Bahn (commuter rail) covers every part of the sprawling city and its surrounds. The U-Bahn and S-Bahn are the best ways of getting around. Buses reach the parts of the city that cannot be reached by train, and East Berlin has a network of modernised pre-war trams. One type of ticket is valid on all forms of transport and fares are divided into three colour-coded tariff zones. Driving in Berlin is easier than in most big cities but still not recommended. Traffic is heavy and parking difficult to find and expensive. Taxis and ride-sharing apps are both plentiful, while cycling is a fun and cheap way to get around. There is an extensive network of bike paths around the city, and bikes can be taken onto most forms of public transport, provided a bike ticket is purchased.
Events in Berlin, Germany
Berlin International Film Festival
Thursday February 15, 2024 to Sunday February 25, 2024 (15 — 25 February 2024)
Where: Potsdamer Platz
The coveted Golden and Silver Bears of the Berlin International Film Festival are the symbol of achievement in one of the top events in the film industry. The Berlinale has become one of the biggest and most reputable festivals in the international business of artistic media and film, where world-class filmmakers launch their latest projects. Aside from screenings, there are also filmmaking workshops and opportunities for young producers and directors to screen their own one-minute films. The Berlin International Film Festival attracts many celebrities and has an impressive red carpet turnout which delights the many spectators.
http://www.berlinale.de
Christopher Street Day
Saturday July 22, 2023 (22 July 2023)
Where:
The gay pride parade on Christopher Street Day has its origins in New York’s Christopher Street, which was the site of violence between customers in a gay bar and raiding police in June 1969. It’s a huge, colourful festival with hundreds of thousands of participants, including many heterosexual revellers and supporters of the cause. The organisation’s core belief is that ignorance and fear is at the root of homophobia and that raising awareness greatly improves the lives of LGBTQ+ people by encouraging pride and public support. This enormous party is spectacular, overwhelmingly popular and has become an important day on Berlin’s calendar.
Startseite
Classic Open Air
Thursday July 06, 2023 to Monday July 10, 2023 (6 — 10 Jul 2023)
Where: Gendarmenmarkt
Set in one of Europe’s most beautiful squares, Classic Open Air stages the romantic summer sounds of classical music presented by internationally acclaimed musicians, conductors and composers. The concert series attracts large crowds to evenings of music under the starlit sky, against the romantic backdrop of the Gendarmenmarkt’s stunning architecture. The shows aren’t limited by genre, having included opera, jazz, stage musicals, pop, soul, swing, blues and more. The performances are also visually impressive as they include fireworks, light shows and lasers.
Startseite
Berlin Christmas Markets
Thursday December 01, 2022 to Saturday December 31, 2022 (December annually)
Where: Various
During the festive season, more than 40 Christmas markets pop up in Berlin. They attract visitors with traditional arts and crafts, Christmas lights and decorations, along with aromas of glühwein, gingerbread and roasted nuts. Santa Claus, fairytales and puppetry are there to entertain children while shoppers browse antique toys and dolls, candles, woodwork and a variety of traditional goods. The suburb of Spandau allegedly has Europe’s largest Christmas market, where stalls spread throughout the Old Town. As people yearn for a less commercial Christmas experience, they enjoy the nostalgia and charm of traditional gifts and decorations. Nothing is mass-produced and the atmosphere is old-fashioned, with Berlin boasting some of the best of these markets in Germany.
http://www.germany-christmas-market.org.uk
Berlin Marathon
Sunday September 24, 2023 (24 Sep 2023)
Where:
Taking runners past most of the famous sights of the historic city, the annual Berlin Marathon is one of the most popular in the world and ends at the imposing Brandenburg Gate. It’s an extremely popular race and the limit of 40,000 runners is generally reached a few hours after entries open for the event. The route is interspersed with about 80 live music stages where bands urge on competitors and entertain spectators. This remarkable music marathon makes the race even more special: some participants are even lucky enough to have requested songs played for them as they approach the finish line.
http://www.berlin-marathon.com
The Berlin Jazz Festival
Thursday November 02, 2023 to Sunday November 05, 2023 (2 — 5 Nov 2023)
Where: Various
The Berlin Jazz Festival is one of the world’s premier jazz festivals and a highlight on the Berlin musical calendar, with a range of concerts taking place all over town and in a variety of different settings, from casual jazz clubs to large arenas. Some of the best in the business have graced its stages, such as Lee Konitz and the legendary Herbie Hancock. World music bands also feature on the programme, bringing a lot of originality and range to the festival. Berlin is always a great city to visit for lovers of jazz music, but Jazzfest truly showcases the city’s jazz scene.
http://www.berlinerfestspiele.de
Nightlife in Berlin, Germany
Berlin follows close on Amsterdam’s heels for the title of Europe’s most liberal city, offering avant-garde setups, trendy bars, risque underground clubs, artistic local hangouts and world-class performing arts. Berlin’s nightlife expanded rapidly after the fall of the Berlin Wall, with locals excited to take advantage of a new type of social freedom. The clubbing scene in Berlin is now one of the most competitive and stimulating in the world.
The Mitte district is one of the trendiest, boasting some of the city’s most popular party spots but often flooded with tourists. New clubs regularly spring up in Prenzlauer Berg and Friedrichshain, while Kreuzberg is fast becoming a go-to hangout with locals, and is distinguished by its edgy atmosphere. Schoneburg offers some superb cafes and saunas and is quite big with Berlin’s gay community, as is Nollendorfplatz.
There are plenty of neighbourhood pubs serving local brews and old favourites, while cabaret is still a popular pastime in Berlin, with many cabaret clubs dotted around this vibrant city. Live music venues dominate much of the city, showcasing both well-known and amateur acts in just about every type of atmosphere, from intimate eateries to grungy music halls.
Public Holidays Around the World
Planning your year? Knowing public holidays in different countries can help you plan trips, schedule events, or understand global schedules. Below, find a comprehensive list of public holidays sorted by country.
