POPULATION
3.645.000
CURRENCY
EURO (€)
TIMEZONE
GMT +1:00
LANGUAGE
GERMAN
WEATHER
JUNE 22ºC /
JANUARY -1ºC
AIRPORTS
Berlin Brandenburg
Airport
HISTORICAL IMPORTANCE OF BERLIN
Berlin holds immense historical significance as the capital of Germany and a key European city. Throughout the 20th century, it was at the epicenter of pivotal historical events, including World War II and the Cold War. The city's division into East and West during the Cold War symbolized the ideological and physical divide between Western democracies and Soviet-controlled Eastern Bloc countries. The Berlin Wall, erected in 1961 to stem mass emigration from East to West, became a potent symbol of the Iron Curtain. The fall of the Wall in 1989 marked a momentous event in modern history, leading to German reunification in 1990 and symbolizing the end of the Cold War era. Today, Berlin stands as a vibrant cultural hub, known for its art scene, diverse population, and historical landmarks that reflect its turbulent past and resilient spirit.
A City of Art
THE BEST TIME TO VISIT BERLIN
The best time to visit Berlin is during late spring (May and June) and early autumn (September and October). During these months, the weather is generally mild and pleasant, making it ideal for exploring the city's outdoor attractions and vibrant neighborhoods. Summer (July and August) can also be enjoyable with longer daylight hours and numerous outdoor events and festivals, although it can be more crowded with tourists. Winter (December to February) offers a unique experience with Christmas markets and indoor cultural activities, but it can be cold and dark. Ultimately, the choice depends on personal preferences for weather, activities, and crowd levels.
TRANSPORTATION TO BERLIN
Getting to Berlin is convenient with various transportation options. Berlin is well-connected internationally via Berlin Brandenburg Airport (BER), which serves flights from major cities worldwide. For European travelers, trains provide efficient connections through Germany and neighboring countries, with Berlin Hauptbahnhof as a central hub. Additionally, highways and buses offer reliable options for travelers arriving by road from within Germany or nearby European cities. Within the city, an extensive public transportation network including buses, trams, and the U-Bahn and S-Bahn trains ensures easy access to attractions and neighborhoods across Berlin.
BERLIN NIGHT LIFE
After the fall of the Berlin wall, they transformed the once-abandoned buildings into nightclubs and bars where freedom and expression of self became highly significant. Today, you'll find more than 4,500 bars and clubs in Berlin where you can experience the city's world-famous pulsating nightlife
THINGS TO DO AND PLACES TO VISIT
WHAT TO EAT IN BERLIN
Currywurst
Currywurst is a beloved street food icon in Berlin and throughout Germany. It consists of steamed, then fried pork sausage, typically cut into slices, and topped generously with a tangy curry ketchup sauce and sprinkled with curry powder. The dish is often served with a side of fries or a bread roll (Brötchen). Currywurst has a unique flavor profile that combines the savory taste of sausage with the sweet and spicy kick of the curry-infused tomato sauce. It's a popular snack or quick meal enjoyed by locals and tourists alike, and can be found at countless Imbiss stands (snack bars) across Berlin, each with its own variation on the classic recipe.
DÖNER KEBAB
Berlin's Döner kebab is a staple of the city's street food scene, renowned for its flavorful combination of grilled meat, usually lamb, chicken, or a mixture, served in a flatbread or dürüm (wrap). Introduced to Berlin by Turkish immigrants in the 1970s, the Döner kebab has since become a ubiquitous part of Berlin's culinary landscape. The meat is typically accompanied by fresh vegetables such as lettuce, tomatoes, onions, and cucumbers, and topped with a variety of sauces like garlic yogurt (tzatziki), spicy chili, or a tangy herb sauce. It's a popular option for a quick and satisfying meal, available at numerous Imbiss stands and restaurants throughout the city. Berlin's Döner kebab is known for its generous portions and diverse flavors, making it a favorite among locals and visitors alike.
APFELSTRUDEL
Apfelstrudel, or apple strudel, is a classic dessert that originated in Austria but has become beloved throughout Germany, including Berlin. It consists of a delicate, flaky pastry dough rolled thin and filled with a sweet and tart mixture of thinly sliced apples, sugar, cinnamon, and sometimes raisins and breadcrumbs. The pastry is then rolled or folded around the filling and baked until golden brown. Apfelstrudel is typically served warm, dusted with powdered sugar, and accompanied by a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. Its combination of crisp pastry and tender, spiced apples creates a delightful contrast of textures and flavors, making it a comforting and popular treat in Berlin's cafes, bakeries, and restaurants.
SCHNITZEL
Berlin schnitzel, much like its counterparts across Germany, typically consists of a thinly pounded and breaded meat cutlet, often pork or veal, though chicken schnitzel is also popular. The meat is tenderized, coated in breadcrumbs, and then fried until golden and crispy. It's commonly served with a wedge of lemon for a tangy touch and garnished with parsley. In Berlin, schnitzel is often accompanied by traditional sides like potato salad, fries, or spaetzle (egg noodles). This hearty and flavorful dish reflects Berlin's rich culinary tradition, offering a satisfying meal that's enjoyed in both casual eateries and upscale restaurants throughout the city.
HOW MANY DAYS SHOULD YOU SPEND IN BERLIN ?
The ideal duration for a visit to Berlin largely depends on your interests and itinerary. Generally, spending at least 3 to 4 days allows you to explore the city's main attractions, museums, and neighborhoods thoroughly. This timeframe allows for visits to iconic landmarks like the Brandenburg Gate, Reichstag building, and Museum Island, as well as leisurely strolls through vibrant districts such as Kreuzberg and Prenzlauer Berg. Additionally, it provides ample time to experience Berlin's diverse culinary scene, attend cultural events, and delve into its rich history. If you have specific interests like art, history, or nightlife, you may want to extend your stay to fully immerse yourself in Berlin's offerings.
