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Explore Berlin: Best Places to Eat, Drink, Stay, and Explore

Everything you need to know for visiting Berlin

Welcome to Berlin – a city that is sure to surprise you.

The best thing about Berlin may not be something you see, but something you feel – a vibrant energy that permeates the city’s cool boutiques, world famous nightlife and thriving creative arts scene. Berlin is edgy, artistic, historic, and modern all at once. Whatever brings you to visit, you’ll almost certainly discover more than you expected.

Below, you’ll find my top picks for eating, drinking, and exploring the best of Berlin.

  1. Planning your visit to Berlin
  2. When to visit Berlin
  3. Getting around
  4. What to see and do in Berlin
  5. Where to eat in Berlin
  6. Where to drink in Berlin
  7. Where to stay in Berlin

Planning your visit to Berlin

Essentials to know

  • Currency: Euro (€). Cards accepted, but cash is still needed in some smaller places.
  • Language: German, but English is widely spoken.
  • Plugs: Type F (two round pins).
  • Weather: Winters are cold, summers can be hot. Layers are always a good idea.
  • Etiquette: Be punctual, and don’t cross the street on red lights.
  • Local Events/Festivals: Berlinale Film Festival (Feb), Karneval der Kulturen (May/June), Fête de la Musique (June), Berlin Marathon (Sept), Christmas Markets (Nov–Dec).

When to visit Berlin

Berlin changes pretty dramatically with the seasons. Summer is the season for open-air parties and café terraces, while winter is all about Christmas markets and cozy bars.

  • Spring (March–May): Pleasant weather, blossoms in parks.
  • Summer (June–August): Lively, long nights, lots of outdoor festivals.
  • Autumn (September–November): Crisp air, autumn leaves. Perfect for coffeeshop hopping.
  • Winter (December–February): Freezing temps but festive — Christmas markets, ice rinks, and fewer tourists.

Getting around

Berlin is big but well connected. Public transport is excellent, cycling is popular, and walking in neighborhoods like Mitte or Kreuzberg is a great way to get a feel of local life.

  • U-Bahn & S-Bahn: Fast and efficient metro and train network.
    Visit: bvg.de
  • Trams: Particularly useful in East Berlin.
    Visit: bvg.de
  • Buses: Frequent and reliable.
    Visit: bvg.de
  • Bikes & Scooters: Bike-friendly city with plenty of rental spots.
  • Taxis & Ride-shares: Taxis, Uber, Bolt all operate.

What to see and do in Berlin

Berlin’s history is everywhere — from iconic landmarks to thought-provoking memorials. But beyond the history, the city’s culture, art, and nightlife make it one of the most exciting cities in Europe.

Don’t miss:

  • Brandenburg Gate
  • Reichstag Building
  • East Side Gallery
  • Museum Island
    • UNESCO-listed cluster of world-class museums.
    • Visit: smb.museum
  • Holocaust Memorial
  • Tempelhofer Feld
  • Tiergarten
    • Berlin’s central park, perfect for a stroll, or a visit to the huge beer garden in the Summer months.
    • Visit: visitberlin.de/en/tiergarten
  • Alexanderplatz & TV Tower
    • Bustling square with a panoramic viewing platform. One of the most touristy spots in the city, but an iconic sight to see for first time visitors.
    • Visit: tv-turm.de

Where to eat in Berlin

Berlin’s food scene reflects its international spirit. You’ll find everything from Michelin star elegance to comforting street food. Turkish, Vietnamese, and Middle Eastern influences bring some added flavour to the table.

Some top picks include:

AM

PM

  • Standard Pizza
    • Neapolitan Pizza and natural wine. Home to Berlin’s best pizza IMO.
    • Visit: standard-berlin.de
  • Curry 36
    • Iconic currywurst kiosk serving the utlimate Berlin comfort dish.
    • Visit: curry36.de
  • Markthalle Neun
    • Street food market to sample a range of local flavours. Good veggie/vegan options, and great for a group if you’re tastes don’t match.
    • Visit: markthalleneun.de
  • Claerchens Ballhaus
    • Classic German dining in an old ballroom venue, plus sunny courtyard seating.
    • Visit: claerchensball.haus

Where to drink in Berlin

Berlin does cafés, pubs, and bars with equal flair. Whether you want third-wave coffee, a riverside beer garden, or late-night cocktails, you’ll find it here.

For coffee:

  • Five Elephant
  • The Barn
    • Minimalist, precision-focused coffee roasters. A haven for serious coffee lovers.
    • Visit: thebarn.de
  • Concierge Coffee

For drinks:

  • Prater Garten
  • Klunkerkranich
  • Berghain/Panorama Bar
    • Legendary club, difficult to get admission but so worth it if you do.
    • Visit: berghain.berlin
  • Tausend

Where to stay in Berlin

Berlin’s accommodation is as varied as the city itself. Choose from cool boutique hotels, budget hostels, or design-led spaces in old factories.

Hotels:

Apartments: