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Picture of Berlin, Germany

Travel Guide for
Berlin

Germany

Temperate seasonal; warm summers, cold winters

Introduction

Berlin sparkles in winter, with festive lights and Christmas markets bringing warmth to the chilly, often snowy streets. Located in northeastern Germany, the city has a rich history—from Prussian royalty to the Berlin Wall—and now pulses with youthful energy.

You and your friends can explore iconic sites like Brandenburg Gate and Museum Island, then dive into vibrant neighborhoods filled with street art, cozy cafes, and local bars. December’s crisp weather is perfect for sampling mulled wine, sharing hearty street food, and experiencing Berlin’s lively holiday spirit together, all without breaking the bank.

Customized for these preferences:

Travel StyleTravelling with friends

Dates20-26 December 2025

BudgetAverage budget

AccommodationApartment or house

Interests and Activities:

arts and culturefestivals and eventsgastronomysightseeing and tours

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Picture of Berlin, Germany

Key Facts

Location

Berlin, Germany (Brandenburg region)

Currency

Euro (EUR)

Religion

Christianity (Protestant, Catholic); secular

Population

3,769,000

Language

German (official), English widely spoken

Electricity

230V, 50Hz, plug types C & F

Time zone

UTCCET/CEST (UTC+1)

Country code

+49

Internet access

High-speed broadband and mobile widespread, affordable

Climate

Temperate seasonal; warm summers, cold winters

See More Germany Facts

Language:

German

  • hello

    Hallo (hah-loh)
  • goodbye

    Auf Wiedersehen (owf vee-der-zay-en)
  • yes

    Ja (yah)
  • no

    Nein (nyn)
  • how much

    Wie viel kostet das? (vee feel kohs-tet dahs)
  • please

    Bitte (bi-teh)
  • thank you

    Danke (dahn-kuh)
  • excuse me

    Entschuldigung (ent-shool-dee-goong)

Map

Logistics

Getting to Berlin is easiest by air, with Berlin Brandenburg Airport (BER) offering numerous international and European flights—ideal for travelers on an average budget. For nearby countries, trains like Deutsche Bahn’s ICE or budget-friendly FlixBus coaches provide comfortable and scenic options to reach Berlin’s central stations.

Consider booking tickets early, especially during the busy December 20–26 holiday week, as flights and trains fill up quickly and prices may rise. Winter weather rarely disrupts major routes, but check for potential delays if snow is forecast. Once in Berlin, the city’s excellent public transportation system—U-Bahn, S-Bahn, and buses—makes getting around with friends both easy and affordable.

Weather

Berlin has a temperate seasonal climate, with warm summers and cold, sometimes snowy winters. Spring and autumn are generally mild, while summer temps average 20–25°C (68–77°F), perfect for outdoor sightseeing, food tours, and lively festivals. Autumn brings colorful foliage and a crisp atmosphere ideal for cultural walks.

From December 20 to December 26, expect chilly weather with temperatures between -1°C and 4°C (30–39°F). Snow is possible but not guaranteed; occasional rain and overcast skies are common. Extreme weather like heavy snowstorms is rare, but there’s a festive atmosphere with Christmas markets, seasonal gastronomy, and holiday concerts throughout the city.

Food & Drink

Berlin’s food scene is vibrant and multicultural, famed for classics like currywurst, döner kebab, and schnitzel, as well as hearty dishes such as eisbein (pork knuckle). Must-try local drinks include Berliner Weisse beer and Club-Mate, a caffeinated soda. Street food markets like Markthalle Neun and Mauerpark’s Sunday food stalls are fun, affordable options for friends.

For a cool meal out, check out Kreuzberg’s Burgermeister (under the U-Bahn tracks), cozy Café Einstein for coffee, or Prater Garten, Berlin’s oldest beer garden. Vegan and vegetarian spots like Vöner and Kanaan are plentiful. Tipping is customary—round up or add 5–10% to your bill. Reservations are helpful on weekends and holidays.

A picture of Bratwurst

Bratwurst

Bratwurst is a type of German sausage made from pork, beef, or veal. It is flavored with a...

A picture of Sauerbraten

Sauerbraten

Sauerbraten is a classic German pot roast, featuring tender marinated beef that is slowly braised until it's meltingly...

A picture of Kartoffelsalat

Kartoffelsalat

Kartoffelsalat, or German potato salad, is a beloved side dish in Germany. It features cooked potatoes mixed with...

A picture of Pretzel

Pretzel

The pretzel, known as Brezel in German, is a popular baked snack in Germany. It is characterized by...

A picture of Eisbein

Eisbein

Eisbein, also known as Schweinshaxe, is a flavorful German dish consisting of a roasted ham hock. The skin...

Accommodation

For a fun friends’ trip to Berlin, neighborhoods like Mitte, Kreuzberg, and Prenzlauer Berg offer a great mix of vibrant nightlife, dining, and central attractions. Apartments and serviced flats are popular here—browse options on Hotels.com for well-rated spots such as Capri by Fraser or the Adina Apartment Hotels, which balance comfort and friendly pricing.

If you prefer a house or larger apartment feel, check listings in Friedrichshain or Neukölln, which are trendy yet a bit more affordable. Though Berlin has few resorts, you’ll find excellent hostels with private rooms, such as WALLYARD Concept Hostel. Book early for December 20–26, as Christmas markets and festivities cause accommodations to fill up quickly.

Itinerary

Soak up Berlin’s festive spirit during the holiday season by exploring vibrant neighborhoods and experiencing the city’s first tastes and sights.

Stroll Through Gendarmenmarkt Christmas Market

Begin your festive Berlin adventure at the elegant Gendarmenmarkt Christmas Market. Stroll among beautifully decorated stalls, sample gingerbread and mulled wine, and enjoy live choirs in a historic square. This is a classic, can’t-miss introduction to Berlin’s holiday magic!

Explore the Artsy Streets of Hackescher Markt

Wander the lively Hackescher Markt area, renowned for its art nouveau courtyards, boutique shops, and street art. Discover unique galleries, pick up handmade gifts, and snap photos of stunning murals lit with festive decorations.

Traditional German Dinner at Zur letzten Instanz

End your day at Berlin’s oldest restaurant, Zur letzten Instanz. Sample classic German fare like pork knuckle or potato soup in a cozy, centuries-old setting—a memorable introduction to Berlin's culinary heritage.

Private Tour: Experience the Christmas Markets in Berlin

Private Tour: Experience the Christmas Markets in Berlin

INSTANT
Free Cancellation

Private and personalised Berlin Christmas experience with a Local Host. Some of the most magical Christmas traditions are found here in Germany, and the whole of Berlin will be sparkling with festive decorations for you to enjoy as you discover local traditions.The city transforms into a winter wonderland with Christmas markets and twinkling lights galore, so explore with a Local Host to see the most spectacular decorations, wander through the best markets and indulge in traditional festive treats as well as discovering what the city’s most loved Christmas traditions are.

4.5 (2 reviews)

From $138 USD

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Attractions

4.9 (117 reviews)
Historic Pubs of Berlin & Berlin Beer Tour

Historic Pubs of Berlin & Berlin Beer Tour

INSTANT
Free Cancellation

Historic Pubs of Berlin & Berlin Beer Tour Historic Beer and History tour of Berlin, taking around 4 hours. Guests will be led through some of the oldest and most historic parts of the city, starting from the 13th century mediaeval city right up until the fall of the Berlin wall and German reunification. Along the way, guests will get to sample some local beers in historic locations while learning about the development and history of the oldest part of the city. Historic Berlin Stroll through the Berlin old town, beer in hand, and discover some of the oldest and most historic pubs, streets and squares in the city. One of a kind Tour This tour could be marketed as an “off the beaten track” or “alternative” tour for people who like beer, the history of beer, medieval history and local history away from all the big tourist destinations.

From $82 USD

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4.8 (23 reviews)
Berlin Battlefield Tour - Operation Berlin 1945 (Small Group)

Berlin Battlefield Tour - Operation Berlin 1945 (Small Group)

INSTANT
Free Cancellation

Do you feel the call of history beckoning you to step into the shoes of history's great military commanders? With Berlin’s only World War II tour specialists, you'll be transported back in time right to the heart of the battle. Hear the roar of the feared MG42. The hiss and snap of artillery as our expert guides unravel the intricate tales of strategy, bravery, and sacrifice, offering you an immersive experience like no other. You won’t just know history; you'll feel it. Tour Highlights: - The Moltke Bridge: A strategically vital bridge - Konigplatz - The Assault: Relive the intense battle - The Reichstag: The primary objective of the war for the Soviets. - Wiedendammer Bridge: Hear the tales of desperation, hope, and carnage. Learning Outcomes: - You will learn military strategy - You will gain insights into the decisions made by Soviet and German commanders - You will understand the human side of the war - You will feel a deeper connection to history

From $54 USD

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4.1 (9 reviews)
Berlin Photoshoot A Private Photoshoot with Berlins Top Sights

Berlin Photoshoot A Private Photoshoot with Berlins Top Sights

INSTANT
Free Cancellation

Capture your memories in high quality with a series of awe-inspiring photos from this fantastic City. Way better than standard selfies! Our professional photographers will guide you through the streets, capturing you at your best and all the while giving you direction, guidance and advice on positions and poses. You'll get some handy recommendations from our local experts and learn some of the history from this amazing place. Within 48 hours you'll receive your professionally edited photos direct to your own personal account. Take home a superb, personal souvenir from your time in the German Capital City!

From $59 USD

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5.0 (35 reviews)
PRIVATE BEHIND THE BERLIN WALL and COLD WAR BERLIN TOUR

PRIVATE BEHIND THE BERLIN WALL and COLD WAR BERLIN TOUR

INSTANT
Free Cancellation

Walk the Line: Explore Berlin’s Divided Past on the Ultimate Berlin Wall Tour. Join an expert guide on a private walking tour through the pivotal sites of Cold War Berlin and the Berlin Wall. Discover the when, why, and how of the Wall’s construction while visiting key sights. Step into the shadows of the Iron Curtain and relive one of the most dramatic chapters of the 20th century. On this immersive walking tour, you’ll journey along the former “death strip,” uncovering the gripping stories, high-stakes escapes, and everyday realities of life in a city cut in two. Led by one of our expert local historians, you’ll explore: The Berlin Wall Memorial – the most authentic and haunting section of the Wall, with preserved watchtowers and the reconstructed death strip. Checkpoint Charlie – the infamous Cold War checkpoint. The former East German Ministry District A surviving BT Watchtower – one of the last of its kind Potsdamer Platz – a symbol of rebirth Much Much More!

From $173 USD

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5.0 (1 reviews)
MegaPass Berlin Top Attractions, Berlin Island & City Discovery

MegaPass Berlin Top Attractions, Berlin Island & City Discovery

INSTANT
Free Cancellation

Choose between 3 different passes and save up to 35%! The Berlin MegaPass includes essentials: hop-on hop-off bus, river cruise, and Berlin’s top highlights. The difference is how many additional experiences are included: Classic Pass → Choose 1 additional attraction Premium Pass → Choose 2 additional attractions Deluxe Pass → Choose 3 additional attractions All passes are valid for 7 days, giving you freedom to explore at your own pace. Included in all 3 Pass variations: ✓ 24 or 48-Hour Hop-On Hop-Off Bus ✓ 1-Hour Sightseeing River Cruise ✓ 8 Audio Guides ✓ 1 GB Internet Data (eSIM) Additional Attractions (choose based on your pass): ✓ Museum Island Ticket ✓ Illuseum Berlin Ticket ✓ Panoramapunkt Berlin Ticket ✓ Berlin Dungeon Ticket ✓ Madame Tussauds Ticket ✓ 2.5-Hour East-Side-Tour Sightseeing Cruise in East Berlin ✓ Sachsenhausen Concentration Camp Memorial Guided Tour ✓ The Streets Of Cold War And East Berlin Half-Day Walking Tour ✓ 4-Hour Guided Walking Tour to Potsdam

From $94 USD

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5.0 (44 reviews)
BERLIN PHOTO TOUR with a professional Photographer from Berlin

BERLIN PHOTO TOUR with a professional Photographer from Berlin

INSTANT
Free Cancellation

Everybody takes photos nowadays, especially while traveling. But there's a distinct difference between snapping a quick shot of a landmark and carefully crafting a photograph. The goal of this photowalk through the center of Berlin is to provide you with the photographic skill set to capture some of Berlin's most iconic landmarks in the best light. The blue hour is when a city is most photogenic. It's the time of day when natural and artificial light are equally bright and complement each other perfectly. Did you ever wonder how to capture those cool light-trails or how to get a shot of a famous landmark without any people in it? Well, I will happily share all of the tips and tricks I use myself to capture cityscapes during the blue hour. This way you will not only end up with some stunning shots for your social media, but also with the knowledge to make your next city trip a photographic success, too.

From $130 USD

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4.1 (10 reviews)
Berlin Night Tours - Romantic Night & Evening Tours Berlin

Berlin Night Tours - Romantic Night & Evening Tours Berlin

INSTANT
Free Cancellation

When the day in the capital draws to a close, not only does the hustle and bustle in the lively metropolis give way, the city also shines in a special light. Let this special atmosphere affect you during the rickshaw ride and discover the most important sights in a relaxed manner. During the journey, you will not only pass highlights such as the Berlin City Palace, the Brandenburg Gate, which is beautifully illuminated in the evening, and the futuristic Potsdamer Platz, you will also learn about the diverse stories surrounding the city's hot spots. Experience the former border crossing Checkpoint Charlie and be impressed by the remains of the Berlin Wall. Or how about an evening stroll through Kreuzberg? Late at night, this exciting multicultural quarter really comes to life. Stroll through the lively streets with their many bars, restaurants and shops on this special Berlin night tour.

From $106 USD

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5.0 (116 reviews)
Individual City Tour - 
Rickshaw Sightseeing in Berlin

Individual City Tour - Rickshaw Sightseeing in Berlin

INSTANT
Free Cancellation

For over 10 years I have been offering completely individual city tours in Berlin. My mission is to summarise the complexity of the capital with different and fascinating perspectives. With me you get impressions about the development of the city: from its foundation, through the Kingdom of Prussia, the Nazi era, the GDR to the modern Berlin of today. Whether a journey through history, a relaxed drive through the green Berlin (Tiergarten, Park Gleisdreieck, etc.) or capturing many beautiful photo motifs in well-known and hidden places. Everything is possible! This is an individual tour. The route can be personalised as desired. This tour is also available for bigger groups (2 adults and 1 child per cab). The guided tour can be in German, English, Italian, Spanish or French. It is possible to order drinks separately.

From $53 USD

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