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Exploring Berlin: A Comprehensive Guide for Beginners

by | Mar 7, 2024 | Cold War Tour Berlin

Introduction

Greetings to one of the most…) If you like history, monumental architecture, works of art, or, in fact, anything to do with culture or entertainment, Berlin has something to amuse and entertain you. This guide will introduce you to the best places to visit in Berlin as well as the cultural activities and helpful information necessary when traveling to Berlin.

Getting to Berlin

Berlin is also well linked by air, train, and road transport hence getting to the city is relatively easy. The city is served by two major international airports: Tegel Airport commonly referred as Berlin/Tegel Airport or TXL and Schönefeld Airportism known as Berlin/Schönefeld Airport or SXF. When you arrive at the airport you will find that there are usual means of transport that include taxis and shuttle buses and also the public transport system to get to your hotel. Train transport is also flexible and when in Berlin both the national and international trains can be accessed at Berlin Hauptbahnhof or the Central Station.

Must-Visit Attractions

1. Brandenburg Gate

Brandenburg Gate is a symbol of unity and the best known sight of Berlin. Constructed in the late part of the eighteenth century it marks the entrance to a famous promenade – Unter den Linden. Be sure to capture the pictures and study some history behind it.

2. The Berlin Wall

It’s impossible to go to Berlin and not see at least the remains of the Berlin Wall. Take a look at the East Side Gallery, this part remains preserved and has been painted with colorful murals by artists located from all across the globe. More about this can also be learned at the Berlin Wall Memorial and Documentation Centre in Berlin.

3. Museum Island

Berliner Ensemble is situated on the water and is actually the fifth one of the Museum Island which is a world heir place. It was home to five premier museums such that when it caught fire in 1938, it severely affected world wide art and culture, with variants including the Pergamon Museum, the Altes Museum and the Neues Museum. So organize yourself well and spend a day discovering the history, art, and archaeology of this site.

Immersing in Culture

1. Berlin’s Cultural Events

Other than the sight seeing, there is the season of festivals, exhibitions and other events in Berlin throughout the year. ‘Berlinale’ is one of the world’s largest International Film Festivals which takes place each year and brings many directors and film lovers. There are so and so concerts, art exhibitions, and theatrical performance that one has to check the event calendar.

2. Food and Drink

Savor Berlin’s exposure of cuisines during your visit to the city. Offering everything from traditional German food such as currywurst, to global assortments of world food, food outlets, and the current craze, food courts. Forbade, don’t leave without enjoying a Columbus beer or take some craft cocktails at some of the city’s finest breweries and bars.

Practical Tips

1. Public Transportation

Although in many parts Berlin is it rather car-friendly, there is also a very good and efficient system of public transport in the form of buses, trams and two metro lines (U-Bahn and S-Bahn). Buy a Berlin WelcomeCard that allows you unlimited travel within selected zones and thus get a comfortable sightseeing experience.

2. Language

Berlin’s main language is German but every so often the citizens you encounter, especially those in the service industry, speak English well mostly when dealing with foreigners. It makes a lot of sense also to learn a few common German phrases when it comes to having an interaction with locals a sense which would make your experience worth.

3. Safety

As with any large city, crime is not very high in Berlin but it’s always wise to act with caution. The usual security tips apply should apply here, avoid lonely places especially at night, carry your belongings closely and be vigilant always.

4. Weather

Now Berlin is the city with a mild climate, which means that it is very warm during summer and very cold during winter. Carry the necessary wardrobe as suggested above where necessary and check the climate of the place you are visiting before you go there.

Conclusion

As many European cities, Berlin distinguishes by its history, multiculturalism and presence of modern achievements. Through visiting the top ten attractions, engaging with the cultural activities and following practicalities you are assured of a wonderful experience when you tour this lively city. Here’s what you should know in order to have the best time in Berlin!

Exploring Berlin: A Comprehensive Guide for Beginners