Grab a Berlin WelcomeCard (AB zones unless you're visiting the airport) for unlimited U-Bahn, S-Bahn, tram, and bus travel plus museum discounts. Validate once and keep it accessible—BVG inspectors wear plain clothes.
Museum Island + Mitte
Reserve timed tickets for the Pergamon Panorama (Pergamon's main hall is under renovation). Combine visits to Neues Museum (Nefertiti bust) and Alte Nationalgalerie, then walk Unter den Linden to Brandenburg Gate and the Memorial to the Murdered Jews of Europe.
Creative Neighborhoods
Spend afternoons in Kreuzberg/Neukölln exploring Turkish markets at Maybachufer, indie bookstores, and canal-side cafes. In Prenzlauer Berg, Kollwitzplatz hosts Saturday farmers' markets and organic bakeries.
Nightlife
- Dress casually but avoid visible logos for techno clubs.
- Cash only at many venues; ATMs near Warschauer Str. have better rates than club-front machines.
- Respect door policies—if turned away, leave politely and try another club (Sisyphos, Kater Blau, Tresor).
For quieter evenings, catch films at Kino International or rooftop bars like Klunkerkranich. Summer Späti culture (corner stores) includes outdoor seating; bring reusable cups to minimize waste.
Day Trips
Potsdam: Take S7 to Potsdam Hbf (45 minutes). Visit Sanssouci Palace, Cecilienhof, and Dutch Quarter. Sachsenhausen Memorial: S1 to Oranienburg plus bus 804; guided tours provide context—dress respectfully and pack snacks because facilities are limited.
Logistics
- Tap water is excellent—look for refill stations marked 'Trinkwasser'.
- Cyclists have priority in bike lanes; avoid standing in red/green paths at intersections.
- Sunday shop closures are strict; stock groceries on Saturday.