Berlin

Berlin is the continent’s cool kid — the one in the back of the classroom dressed in head-to-toe black with tattooed sleeves and a blasé, rebellious attitude. Yes, that counterculture scene you’ve heard about is alive and well here, and it’s evident everywhere you look, from scruffy art galleries to trendy bars and cafés and even the graffiti-covered facades of timeworn buildings. And of course, a visit to Berlin isn’t complete without diving into the city’s historical sites and museums.

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QUICK GUIDE

WHEN TO GO

May through October is a great time to visit Berlin. While these tend to be the most crowded months, the weather is sunny and beautiful and you can take advantage of the plethora of parks and outdoor activities going on. Winter in Berlin isn’t without its charms (especially around the holidays), but you’ll miss out on the vibrant park/outdoor café scene.

NEED TO KNOW

Visas: U.S. citizens visiting for less than 90 days do not need to obtain a visa. Passports must be valid for at least three months beyond your planned date of departure.
Money: Local currency is the euro. ATMs are widely available throughout the city. Most credit cards are widely accepted, with the exception of American Express. Carrying cash is recommended.
Travel Health: As per the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), travelers should be fully vaccinated before going to Berlin. Be sure to check airline requirements — as well as requirements at your destination, including (but not limited to) proof of vaccination, testing or quarantine — before you go. The Federal Ministry of Health and the CDC are the best resources for up-to-date information and guidance. Before traveling, research and prepare for what to do if you get sick while away.

GETTING AROUND

Getting Here: Berlin’s airport is Berlin Brandenburg Airport (BER), located about 16 miles from the city center. The cheapest, easiest way to get from the airport to the city center is by train, although buses and taxis are readily available, as well. Berlin Hauptbahnhof is the main train station.
Getting Around: Berlin is famous for having nearly every form of public transportation you could imagine, making it an extremely easy city to navigate sans car. Ride the U-Bahn (the easiest way to get around), S-Bahn, trams or buses; take a taxi; or soak up the sights by exploring on foot or by bike.

LOCAL INTEL

Local Lingo: German is the official language. Most people speak and understand English, but it’s good form to learn a few phrases before you go. Guten Tag: Good morning. Guten Abend: Good evening. Danke: Thank you. Bitte: please/you’re welcome. Sprechen Sie Englisch? Do you speak English?
Must-Have Apps: BVGGoing Local BerlinberlinHistoryVoiceMapStreet Art Cities
Insider Tip: Stock up on cool vintage tees, jackets, and accessories at the Humana Second Hand & Vintage shop at Frankfurter Tor, the biggest secondhand shop in the city. It’s crawling with all kinds of unique treasures.