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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.

Rickshaw Tours Berlin - Groups of up to 16 people with several rickshaws

Rickshaw Tours Berlin - Groups of up to 16 people with several rickshaws

INSTANT
Free Cancellation

Experience Berlin's historical highlights on a fascinating rickshaw tour berlin as we guide you through the city's magnificent streets and squares. From the imposing buildings of the Brandenburg Gate to the majestic remains of the Berlin Wall - discover the captivating history of Berlin comfortably with our rickshaw sightseeing and eco-friendly tours. Experience the capital on our berlin bike tours – ideal for celebrations or events, such as a bachelorette party. We offer the right solution for all occasions. Discover Berlin's artistic side with our insider tour berlin, which leads to the best street art spots. Our eco-friendly tours offer a variety of experiences, including specially guided street art tours. Our city tour berlin shows exciting, lesser-known places and offers insights into history and culture.

4.2 (97 reviews)

From $53 USD

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Attractions

4.8 (128 reviews)
Kreuzberg Berlin: Off the Beaten Track PRIVATE Walking Tour

Kreuzberg Berlin: Off the Beaten Track PRIVATE Walking Tour

INSTANT
Free Cancellation

Ready to experience a side of Berlin like a local, with a local? This is a tour, unlike any other! If you want to take a step away from the touristy path, there's no better way than by diving into the city's alternative side. Welcome to the Kreuzberg district! If you're done with the main highlights, why not step away and take a less-traveled path that will show you an unexpected side of Berlin? Follow a local guide on a private tour full of surprises and check out the East Side Gallery, Urban Spree, and more that let the true form of the city shine! Withlocals Off the Beaten Track Tour™ is one of Withlocals' signature tours available in major cities worldwide. We work with passionate local guides who earn a fair fee. We support local economies by only offering local produce and prevent over-tourism with only small non-intrusive groups. Our tours are carbon-neutral and away from the standard tourist routes.

From $123 USD

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4.5 (103 reviews)
Small-Group Historical Bike Tour in Berlin

Small-Group Historical Bike Tour in Berlin

INSTANT
Free Cancellation

Be prepared to experience this unique all-in-one, bike tour. Spending about 3.5-hours exploring Berlin's history, and the Prussian Monarchy with your professional, local guide. Cycle through the city with your small group, as you also learn about the Third Reich Nazi, Cold War, Wall Memorial, and The Jewish Quarters. Plus much more...

From $54 USD

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4.1 (55 reviews)
Rickshaw Sightseeing City Tours Berlin - Rikscha Tours

Rickshaw Sightseeing City Tours Berlin - Rikscha Tours

INSTANT
Free Cancellation

Unfortunately, due to health reasons, I cannot lead tours or answer questions from the beginning of August until October 15. However, I will be actively available to you again from October 15th### ❤To reach sights of the capital easily and quickly and to get to know Berlin in a relaxed atmosphere. ❤Where should it go? To the opera, the Olympic Stadium or Hangover Blue? Do you want the club night “from dusk till dawn”, a Spree ride through the green, from the Tiergarten to the Maybachufer, or rather on the fastest way from the concert to the cozy bed? Leo-Rikscha offers stress-free rides with lots of fun, comfort and guarantees the best carbon footprint. When booking for multiple people with multiple rickshaws Search with this title ''Rikscha Tours Berlin - Groups up to 16 people with multiple rickshaws''

From $106 USD

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5.0 (360 reviews)
Private Walking Tour Berlin Third Reich Hitler and World War II

Private Walking Tour Berlin Third Reich Hitler and World War II

INSTANT_THEN_MANUAL
Free Cancellation

Experience a 4-hour private Third Reich tour in Berlin, beginning with convenient hotel pickup by your expert guide. Start at Hitler’s Bunker, where the Führer spent his final days. While the bunker is not open to the public, your guide will share gripping stories about its history and the events that occurred there. Next, visit the Bendler Block, the site of the July 20, 1944, assassination attempt against Hitler, and learn about the German military leaders who conspired against him. Continue to the Reichstag, Germany's parliament building, to discuss its significance during the Nazi regime. Reflect at the Memorial to the Murdered Jews of Europe, a moving tribute to Holocaust victims. Finally, explore the Topography of Terror, an indoor and outdoor museum detailing the atrocities committed by the SS and Gestapo. This tour provides a compelling and educational overview of Berlin's complex history during the Nazi era.

From $192 USD

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5.0 (37 reviews)
Private Walking Tour: Berlin Wall, Cold War and Checkpoint Charlie

Private Walking Tour: Berlin Wall, Cold War and Checkpoint Charlie

INSTANT_THEN_MANUAL
Free Cancellation

This private walking tour brings you to the places, where famous events of the Cold War happened and history was written. On this tour you will also see original pieces of the Wall, one of the last remaining guard towers and Checkpoint Charlie. The tour starts at the Berlin Wall Documentation Center in the street "Bernauer Strasse", where many of the dramatic escape attempts took place, successful and tragic ones. You will ride one of the subways that were called "ghost trains" during the division of the city, so-called because of the gloomy atmosphere in the underground stations close to the wall. The tour also covers Checkpoint Charlie, the former military checkpoint and hot spot of the Cold War. This is the site where the fate of mankind was hanging by a thread in 1961 when US and Soviet tanks confronted each other.

From $151 USD

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4.9 (21 reviews)
Private Day Tour of Wannsee and Potsdam from Berlin

Private Day Tour of Wannsee and Potsdam from Berlin

INSTANT
Free Cancellation

On your way to Potsdam you will see the Olympic Stadium, Wannsee, and the Bridge of Spies. In Potsdam stroll through the beautiful gardens, see Cecilienhof and Sanssouci, and also stop at the Baroque Old City, as well as the Dutch Quarter. Please note: Cecilienhof will be closed for renovation as of Nov. 1, 2024!! This is a private, 5-hour tour led by a driver/guide providing live commentary on board an air-conditioned minivan. Group size is limited to 6 people. Please note that museums (Wannsee villa, Cecilienhof/site of Potsdam Conference) are closed on mondays.

From $506 USD

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4.9 (41 reviews)
Explore Berlin Shore Excursion: Top Attractions Private Tour from Warnemuende

Explore Berlin Shore Excursion: Top Attractions Private Tour from Warnemuende

INSTANT_THEN_MANUAL
Free Cancellation

Embark on a memorable shore excursion from the Baltic Sea to Berlin, where you'll experience the city’s rich history and vibrant neighborhoods. After a scenic drive, visit iconic historical landmarks such as the Brandenburg Gate, Reichstag, and the Berlin Wall Memorial, each with its own compelling story to tell. Explore the heart of Berlin, walking through diverse neighborhoods like Mitte and Kreuzberg, where past and present seamlessly intertwine. Your expert guide will share fascinating insights about the city’s transformation, from its Prussian roots to the turbulent 20th century and modern-day Berlin. Enjoy a relaxing lunch at a local restaurant, experiencing Berlin's culinary offerings before continuing your tour. The day wraps up with a comfortable return to the port, leaving you with a deeper appreciation of Berlin's heritage, culture, and architectural wonders.

From $1078 USD

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5.0 (1 reviews)
Berlin: Skip-the-line Jewish Museum Private Guided Tour

Berlin: Skip-the-line Jewish Museum Private Guided Tour

MANUAL

Explore the history of Jews at the Jewish Museum. Enrich your experience with a walking tour of sites related to Jewish history and culture. This unique trip is perfect for history lovers and for those who want to gain a dose of important knowledge. Choose one of our excellent tour options tailored to your needs and interests: 2-Hours: Jewish Museum Private Tour Choose this option to visit the Jewish Museum and learn the important history. 4-Hours: Jewish Museum, Memorial&Topography of Terror Discover the Jewish Museum, the Holocaust Memorial and Topography of Terror Museum. Skip-the-line ticket to the Jewish Museum is included. 5-Hours: Jewish Museum, Quarter, Memorial&Topography Terror Visit the Jewish Museum, the Holocaust Memorial, the Topography of Terror and Jewish Quarter. Skip-the-line ticket to the Jewish Museum is included. After the Holocaust, the number of Jews living in Berlin has dropped from 173,000 to 9,000.

From $255 USD

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5.0 (5 reviews)
Day trip through multicultural city landscapes & photo highlights

Day trip through multicultural city landscapes & photo highlights

INSTANT
Free Cancellation

Personalize your experience with a flexible itinerary. Discover Berlin's multicultural food culture and taste the Berliners' favorite snacks - for example currywurst Eat and drink in the places where the real Berliners flock Stroll through a typical Berlin neighborhood lined with charming shops and small grocery stores Admire Berlin's famous street art and unveil the hidden gems of the city's art scene Hear stories about Kreuzberg's wild past and present Kreuzberg; Alternative multicultural Kreuzberg locations Potsdamer Platz - Anhalter Bahnhof - Mehringdamm - "Curry 36" - Riehmers Hofgarten - Bergmann-Kiez with Bergmannstraße, Chamisso-Platz and surroundings, Marheineke Markthalle - Südstern - Graefe-Kiez with Graefestraße, Landwehrkanal, "Turkish Market", - Admiralbrücke - Kottbusser Tor – Oranien-Kiez with Adalbertstrasse, Oranienstrasse, Mariannenplatz

From $143 USD

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