Passport & Visa

Citizens of European Union (EU) and European Economic Area (EEA) countries do not need a visa to enter Germany, only a valid ID. Many other countries, including the United Kingdom, United States, Canada, United Arab Emirates, Australia, and New Zealand, benefit from visa-free entry for short stays of up to 90 days within a 180-day period. Visitors from visa-exempt countries must hold a valid passport and, starting in late 2025, will need to apply for an ETIAS (European Travel Information and Authorisation System) authorisation online before travelling. For those requiring a visa, such as travellers from some Middle-East, African or Asian nations, a Schengen visa must be obtained prior to arrival. All travellers should ensure their passport is valid for at least three months beyond their intended stay.

Information

websiteVisit website

Berlin Brandenburg Airport Willy Brandt (BER)

Berlin Brandenburg Airport Willy Brandt (BER) is the only airport operating in Berlin since Tegel Airport saw its last flight depart in November 2020. The new airport is well connected to the city by S-Bahn, buses and long-distance trains. The Airport Express (FEX) and regional trains (RE7, RB14) travel between Berlin central station and “Flughafen BER – Terminal 1-2” station several times per hour. The S9 and S45 S-Bahn trains travel every 20 minutes, serving the “Terminal 1-2” and “Terminal 5” stations. The airport is located in the C zone when it comes to public transport. You will either need to have an ABC zone ticket or buy a C zone extension.

Frequently Asked Questions about Berlin (FAQs)

– Is Berlin safe? Berlin is a hospitable and cosmopolitan city, especially in the central areas frequented by visitors. There are no no-go areas in the city and it’s safe to walk alone at night. Nonetheless, it is impossible to rule out crime completely. Should anything happen — don’t hesitate to contact the police. It’s best to avoid dark parks at night if you want to stay away from illegal “business transactions”. – Is Berlin cheap or expensive? Berlin is probably the cheapest Western European capital city. To stay within a low budget, consider getting a bike-sharing subscription and take advantage of lunch offers — there are lots of great deals! – Is English spoken in Berlin? Yes! Berlin is a very cosmopolitan city and English is its lingua franca. All restaurants, bars, cafes and hotels will have English speaking staff. Even places not catering to tourists will accommodate English speakers. – Where is the heart of Berlin? Berlin doesn’t have one clearly defined centre. Each neighbourhood has its own vibe and feel and you’ll have to find your favourite. The closest thing Berlin gets to a “city centre” is Mitte. Museum Island, the city hall Rotes Rathaus and the Altes Stadthaus, the famous TV tower, Brandenburg Gate at the end of the Unter den Linden boulevard are all located here. – What is Checkpoint Charlie? Checkpoint Charlie was the most famous border crossing during the years when Berlin was divided by the Wall. The iconic sign "You are now leaving the American Sector" is world famous.

Best Time to Visit

In terms of weather, the best time to visit Berlin is May through September, when the weather is ideal for outdoor activities: sitting around in outdoor cafes and restaurants, wandering through the city and parks, biking around and staying out all night. June offers the Carnival of Cultures, July has the Pride Parade and September brings you the Berlin Art Week. Winter, on the other hand, is cold: the temperature is close to freezing during the day. Of course, winter holidays are a great time to check out the local markets and relax with a cup of hot cocoa or mulled wine. The Berlinale film festival also takes place in the winter.

Public Transport

The local public transport system allows you to get anywhere in Berlin — comfortably, safely and cheaply. The expanded transport network of S-Bahn, U-Bahn, buses and trams provides you with unrestricted mobility, even at night: on Fridays and Saturdays as well as the nights before public holidays, nearly all the S-Bahn and U-Bahn network operate all through the night at 15 minute intervals. The most convenient way to buy tickets is through the official ticket purchasing app for public transport in Berlin — BVG Tickets.

Taxi

When hiring a taxi in Berlin, you pay a basic charge of €4.30 plus €2.10–2.80 for each kilometre travelled. The 'Kurzstrecke' (short distance) tariff gives you a journey of up to two kilometres for €6.00 — in this case, however, you have to flag down the taxi yourself. The 'Kurzstrecke' tariff does not apply if you order a taxi or get in one at a designated taxi-waiting spot. If you think that ordering a taxi by phone is a little too retro, order one through the taxi.eu app.

Pharmacy

You can fill your prescription and buy over the counter medication in Berlin by finding one of the many pharmacies signed with the large red letter “A”. They are often confused with drugstores (Drogerie), where you can get toiletries, but not medication. Pharmacies in Berlin are usually open just like any other store: closed in the evening, on Sundays and holidays. If you need medication outside of normal working hours, you can also visit your local emergency pharmacy. Check the website below to find the closest one to you.