City guide - Berlin
Essential tips
Germans Take Sunday Seriously
Germans work hard and play hard. When the work week ends, it’s time for rest, especially on Sundays. Berlin can feel like a ghost town on Sundays, so make sure you’ve done your food shopping the day before to partake in the relaxation. Despite the quiet, there’s still plenty to do, such as visiting the famous Boxhagener Platz Flea Market, which is open all weekend.
Skip the Tip
Berlin isn’t known for its spectacular service. While the people are hospitable, restaurant service can be straightforward. Tipping isn’t common practice in Germany; most people just round up. At a restaurant, you can tell your waiter “stimmt so,” or “keep the change,” and that will suffice.
Go Beyond the Currywurst
While currywurst and pretzels are popular, Berlin’s diverse population means there’s much more to explore. With 35% of residents coming from other countries, international cuisine thrives here. Add Vietnamese, Turkish, and Israeli food to your gastronomic tour.
Communication
While almost everyone in Berlin speaks English fluently, here are a few useful German phrases to help you get by:
Local festivities and traditions in Berlin
Celebration is synonymous with Berlin. Germany is rich with tradition and festivity, boasting around 10 bank holidays and famous festivals in each neighborhood. Berlin is a city of gaiety and vibrant culture.
Unity Day - October 3rd
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This day marks the unification of Germany in 1990. Celebrations include communal meals, fireworks, cultural events, and concerts.
Der Fall der Mauer & Kristallnacht - November 9th
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This day holds significant historical meaning. In 1938, Kristallnacht, or the “night of the broken glass,” marked a painful event during the Holocaust. In 1989, the same date marked the fall of the Berlin Wall. It’s a day for reflection rather than celebration.
Saint Nicholas Day - December 6th
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Kicking off the Christmas season early, children wake up to find stockings filled with small gifts and sweet treats.
Oktoberfest
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Starting in mid-September and lasting until early October, this well-known Bavarian festival also finds a home in Berlin, featuring funfairs, beer, and traditional attire.
Tanz in den Mai
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On the last night of April, Germans celebrate the start of the Spring season with street parties, lederhosen, and traditions like “maisprung,” where participants jump over a bonfire to welcome May.
Erntedankfest
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Considered Germany’s Thanksgiving, this “harvest festival” features autumnal activities, parades, and hearty feasts.
Transportation in Berlin
Berlin offers a comprehensive and efficient public transportation system. Tickets can be purchased directly at U-Bahn and S-Bahn stations, or for added convenience, you can buy your tickets online beforehand using the BVG App.
SINGLE RIDE TICKET
≃ €3.50
- Valid for 2 hours in fare zones AB, BC, ABC
- One journey in one direction
- Changes permitted
4 Trip Ticket
≃ €10.80
- 4 trips in fare zone Berlin AB, BC, ABC
- One journey in one direction
- Changes permitted
- Round and return trips are not permitted
7 Day Ticket
≃ €41.50
- Valid for zones AB, BC, ABC
- Unlimited trips for 7 days
- Transferable
Monthly Ticket
≃ €99.00
- Valid for zones AB, BC, ABC
- Unlimited trips for a month
- Transferable
BVG has more fare options dependent on your individual needs. If you want more information, feel free to have a look on their website.