Berlin: Know Before You Go

Berlin is a city with a lot to offer its visitors. Here are some essential things to know before travelling to the German capital:

- Berlin is famous for its nightlife, with world-renowned clubs like Tresor, Berghain and Sisyphos. The best time to experience the clubbing scene is on Sunday mornings, when the headline DJs perform.

- Berlin is one of the most open-minded and liberal cities in the world. The city attracts people from diverse backgrounds and cultures, making it a very inclusive place.

- Cash is preferred over credit cards in Berlin. It is recommended to carry enough cash or find ATMs (Geldautomat) that accept international cards.

- Berlin has a diverse food scene, with popular cuisines including Turkish, Vietnamese and Thai. While there are plenty of German delicacies to try, the best food in Berlin might not be German!

- Berliners value manners and etiquette. It is customary to greet people with a handshake and say guten morgen before noon, guten Tag between noon and 6 pm, and guten Abend after 6 pm.

- Berlin has a well-developed public transportation system, including U-bahns, S-bahns and buses. It is recommended to download the BVG Tickets app to navigate and purchase tickets.

- The city has a rich history, including its role during the Cold War. Memorials and museums, such as the Reichstag, offer a glimpse into Berlin's past. It is important to be respectful and sensitive when discussing Germany's history.

- Berlin is generally a safe city, but it is important to be cautious of pickpockets in busy tourist areas and on public transportation.

- The dress code in Berlin is quite relaxed and diverse. While some districts, like Charlottenburg and Mitte, favour more elegant clothing, other areas like Kreuzberg and Neukölln are more laid-back.

- Berlin has a vibrant street art scene, with graffiti and murals throughout the city.

Berlin is vegan and vegetarian-friendly

Berlin is a haven for vegans and vegetarians, with an array of dining options to suit all tastes and budgets. Whether you're looking for a quick bite or a gourmet meal, the city has something for everyone. Here are some tips to help you navigate the vegan and vegetarian scene in Berlin:

The Variety of Vegan and Vegetarian Options

Berlin was voted the most vegan-friendly city in 2017 by Happy Cow, and for good reason. With over 470 restaurants offering vegan options and the largest vegan grocery chain, Veganz, you'll be spoilt for choice. The city boasts a diverse range of vegan and vegetarian cuisine, from traditional German dishes to international fare. You can find vegan versions of local favourites such as Currywurst and Doner Kebab, as well as an abundance of Thai, Vietnamese, and Italian options.

Popular Vegan and Vegetarian Restaurants

When it comes to vegan and vegetarian dining in Berlin, there are several stand-out restaurants that should be on your radar. Here are some recommendations:

• Kopps: This fine dining establishment is known for its beautiful food and elegant atmosphere. While a full meal might be pricey, they offer vegan cheese and egg salad appetizers that are worth trying.
• 1990 Vegan Living: This fully vegan restaurant serves up fresh and flavourful Vietnamese cuisine with a tapas-style menu. Try their crispy fried dumplings, wok-style eggplant, and avocado cheesecake.
• La Stella Nera: Craving vegan pizza? La Stella Nera serves up delicious pies with thin, chewy crusts and molten vegan cheese.
• Secret Garden Vegan Sushi: Indulge in creative and delicious vegan sushi and Japanese dishes in a beautiful setting.
• Momos: This spot serves up fluffy, crispy South Asian dumplings with six vegan options and sauces.
• No Milk Today: A homey, light-filled cafe with a variety of vegan breakfast options, including cinnamon rolls, bagels, croissants, and smoothies.
• Daluma: This raw vegan eatery offers warm quinoa mushroom salads and other delicious options.
• Vaust Braugaststatte Berlin: Rated as one of the best vegetarian/vegan restaurants in town, Vaust offers great food and an outdoor setting.
• Shiso Burger: A perfect spot to bring your carnivore friends, Shiso Burger has a predominantly meaty menu but also serves excellent veggie burgers and sweet potato fries.
• Lucky Leek: For a fancier vegan dining experience, Lucky Leek is a critically acclaimed vegan fine dining restaurant.

Berlin's Vegan Scene

Berlin's vegan scene continues to thrive, making it a popular international destination for plant-based travellers. The city's vegan options go beyond restaurants, with vegan grocery stores, bakeries, and ice cream shops aplenty. Whether you're a long-time vegan or just curious about plant-based options, Berlin has something to offer everyone. So, whether you're looking for a casual bite or a gourmet meal, you're sure to find delicious vegan and vegetarian options to satisfy your cravings in Berlin.

Cash is king

Berlin is a city with a lot to offer, from its vibrant culture and cutting-edge architecture to its intense parties and tangible history. However, if you're planning a trip to Germany's capital, there's one crucial thing to know: cash is king. Here's what you need to know about navigating Berlin with cash.

Berlin's Love for Cash

Berlin vendors prefer cash, and if they do take cards, it's often limited to local German banks. Even the public transit system mostly bounces international credit cards. So, it's essential to carry a decent amount of cash with you. ATMs (look for 'Geldautomat') are available, but even some of those won't accept cards from outside Germany. This preference for cash is not unique to Berlin but is a widespread trend across Germany.

Germans have a strong preference for cash due to several reasons. Firstly, they consider it quick, easy, and private. It provides a clear picture of personal spending and is widely accepted across the country. Additionally, there are historical reasons for this attachment to cash. For older Germans, the former currency, the Deutsche Mark, represented the economic boom after World War II and symbolised the building of a new democratic state. For those in the eastern part of the country, money signified the end of the socialist economy and the reunification of Germany.

Using Cards in Berlin

While cash is king, it's worth noting that Germany is slowly moving towards more modern payment methods. In 2018, for the first time, Germans used debit and credit cards more than cash for payments. However, this shift is gradual, and many small shops, cafes, and restaurants in Berlin may only accept cash or local debit cards.

Tips for Using Cash in Berlin

• Carry a decent amount of cash with you, including smaller denominations for purchases under 50 EUR, where cash is often preferred.
• Keep some local currency, such as EUR, on hand for purchases where cards may not be accepted, such as street food, bakeries, and smaller shops.
• Be prepared to pay for some attractions and activities in cash, such as lockers, toilets, and certain ticket machines.
• Have a backup plan if you're relying on a specific card, as some places may not accept international credit cards or certain card types.
• If you need to withdraw cash, use a debit card (not a credit card) to get cash from an ATM as needed.
• Be cautious about pickpocketing, especially in busy tourist areas and on public transportation. Keep your valuables secure and be aware of your surroundings.

Validate your train ticket

Berlin is a city with a lot to offer its visitors, and there are a few things you should know before your trip to help you get around the city with ease. Here is some crucial information about validating your train ticket:

Firstly, it's important to note that Berlin has an extensive public transportation system that is both affordable and punctual. To use public transport, you will need to purchase the appropriate ticket. There are various types of tickets available, depending on your needs. If you are arriving at Berlin Brandenburg Airport, you can take the FEX Airport Express train, Deutsche Bahn train RE7 or RB14, or the S-Bahn 9 train to reach the central train station. The train ticket from the airport costs €3, and the journey takes around 30 minutes. Alternatively, you can opt for the Airport Express Buses, which arrive every 10 minutes and cost €2.80.

Now, let's talk about ticket validation. It is crucial to validate your public transportation tickets before boarding the train or bus. Validation machines are typically located at the stations, usually near the entrances and exits. You won't be able to validate your ticket inside the vehicles, except for buses. Failure to validate your ticket may result in a fine. If you purchase a day pass, you only need to validate it the first time you use it.

When buying tickets for intercity trains, such as the one from Berlin to Amsterdam, printing your ticket or showing it on the Deutsche Bahn app is sufficient. These tickets do not need to be validated before boarding. However, you must present the ticket along with the credit card used for the purchase for identification purposes. Make sure to carry your passport as well, as it may be requested by the conductor.

Additionally, if you plan to use public transport in Berlin extensively, consider downloading the BVG Tickets app. It offers a 24-hour pass that covers all forms of public transport for 24 hours. The Berlin Welcome tourist card is another option, providing discounted entry to various attractions and covering public transport.

Book your Reichstag ticket in advance

Berlin is a city with a lot to offer, and there are a few things you should know before your visit to make the most of your time there. One of the most important things to do before your trip is to book your ticket to visit the Reichstag in advance. Here's why:

The Reichstag is one of the most popular attractions in Berlin, and for good reason. The building, which houses the German Bundestag, or federal parliament, has a spectacular glass dome that offers a 360-degree view of the city. It also features an energy-efficient design that funnels natural light and fresh air into the parliamentary chamber through numerous mirrors. The dome is open to the public and offers free admission, but advance registration is required.

Booking your ticket in advance ensures that you don't miss out on this unique experience. The Reichstag is extremely popular, and same-day tickets are not guaranteed. By booking in advance, you can secure your preferred date and time slot, especially if you want to visit on a weekday when it tends to be less crowded. Weekends and holidays are peak times, and you may have to plan for extra waiting time.

There are several ways to register for your visit. The fastest and easiest way is to book online through the Bundestag website. You will need to provide the first names, last names, and birthdates of all visitors, as well as your email address. You can request up to three dates and times, and reservations are required for each person in your group. Another option is to make a reservation at Käfer, the rooftop restaurant located within the Reichstag. This option is more expensive but includes access to the dome and terrace, and you can enjoy a delicious meal with incredible views.

When visiting the Reichstag, remember to bring your booking confirmation and a government-issued ID. Be prepared to go through a security check, and note that requests to visit the dome can only be made for the current and following month. If you are unable to book in advance, you can try your luck at the Visitors' Service Center near the Reichstag, but this option does not guarantee entry.

Manners matter

Berliners are a relaxed bunch, but they do value their manners. Being mindful of the following will help you fit right in with the locals.

Greeting People

When meeting new people, it is customary to shake hands and say 'guten morgen' (good morning) before noon, 'guten Tag' (good day) between noon and 6 pm, and 'guten Abend' (good evening) after 6 pm.

Apologising or Saying 'Excuse Me'

The word 'Entschuldigung' is used to say both 'excuse me' (to attract attention) and 'sorry' (to apologise).

Toasting

If you're drinking wine, the proper toast is 'Zum Wohl'. If you're drinking beer, it's ''Prost'.

Punctuality

Time is of the essence in Germany. Being punctual is important, so never arrive more than five minutes early, and certainly don't be late. If you're running behind or ahead of schedule, be sure to let your host know.

Jaywalking

Berlin has dedicated pedestrian lanes, and it is important to obey the laws around them. Don't cross the road when the lights are red, even if there are no cars in sight – you might get an earful from a local!

Public Transport

When using public transport, don't expect to be seated alone. It is acceptable to be seated with strangers, and while you should greet your new table companions politely, you are not expected to make conversation.

Paying the Bill

You will need to ask for the bill when you are ready to pay – it won't be brought to you automatically. 'Zahlen bitte!' is the phrase to use. Tipping is considered good manners (5 to 10%, sometimes even 15%). Be sure to hand your tip directly to the waiter or waitress.

Frequently asked questions