Practical information for Berlin: facts & tips

Citizens of EU member states do not need a visa to enter Germany or Berlin. All that is required is a valid national ID card or passport. 

Non-EU nationals need a visa and a valid passport to enter Germany or Berlin. However, for some countries outside the EU, the visa requirement is waived for stays in Berlin of up to 3 months (90 days).  Please make sure to check the latest entry regulations for Berlin and Germany in advance on the website of the Federal Foreign Office.

Changed entry requirements from 2026:  From the end of 2026, the ETIAS travel authorisation (European Travel Information and Authorisation System) will be required to enter Germany. This applies to citizens of non-EU countries who currently do not need a visa for short stays (such as holidays or business trips) but wish to enter Germany or other countries in the Schengen Area. 

In Germany – and therefore also in Berlin – the Euro (€) is the official currency. EC cards and major credit cards are generally accepted without issue. Visa and Mastercard are more commonly used than American Express or Diners Club. However, it’s advisable to carry some cash, as smaller businesses such as bakeries, kiosks or snack bars may only accept cash payments.

Cash can be withdrawn 24/7 from numerous ATMs, which are often located at railway stations or bank branches.

Contactless payments are also widely accepted. Bank cards with NFC functionality allow for quick and easy transactions, and Apple Pay and Google Pay are accepted in many shops and restaurants. That said, not all terminals support every type of card, and limitations can occur – particularly with foreign or prepaid cards.

Berlin lies in a temperate climate zone with four distinct seasons. As a year-round destination, it offers activities and experiences on all 365 days of the year. During the summer months – especially in July and August – temperatures often rise above 30 °C, and the city comes alive with its vibrant street life and numerous open-air events, showcasing its unique summer charm. Many conference hotels and event venues are equipped with air-conditioned rooms, making them ideal even in the height of summer.

Winters, by contrast, tend to be chilly to frosty, with temperatures often dropping to around freezing. Spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) are pleasantly mild and especially popular with cultural and business travellers. However, these transitional seasons can be changeable – so don’t forget your umbrella.

Berlin is considered a very safe major city, with crime rates steadily declining in recent years. Business travellers can feel secure and move freely throughout the city, both during the day and in most neighbourhoods at night. The police maintain a visible presence and are easily reachable.

As in many large cities, however, it’s wise to remain alert in busy public areas, where pickpocketing and scams can occur. Carry only as much cash as you need. Public transport is safe and reliable even in the evenings and at night. Taxis are also trustworthy – officially licensed vehicles can be identified by the yellow taxi sign. You’ll find an overview of important emergency numbers here.

You can travel to Berlin by train, car, long-distance coach or plane here.

You can travel to Berlin by train, car, long-distance coach or plane.

Taxis are reliable and safe, making them particularly suitable for transfers to trade fairs, event venues, hotels or evening functions within Berlin. App-based ride-sharing services such as Uber, Bolt and FreeNow are also widely used. For short distances and flexible timing, rental bikes or e-scooters (available via apps like Tier, Bolt, Lime, Dott, etc.) are a convenient alternative. For ideas on how to organise sustainable transport for your event attendees within Berlin, click here.

Deutsche Bahn’s event offers are ideal for those travelling to Berlin by train.

Tailored specifically for groups attending events, this special ticket provides attractive discounts, flexible travel options and a comfortable journey – all while offering a more sustainable alternative. For added convenience, your attendees can use the Berlin WelcomeCard to travel easily by public transport between the airport, train station, hotel and event venue – and benefit from up to 50% off at many top attractions.

Most shops in Berlin are open Monday to Friday between 9:00 and 20:00. On Sundays, shops are generally closed (except on designated shopping Sundays). However, supermarkets at railway stations, at Berlin Brandenburg Airport (BER), as well as petrol station shops and late-night stores (“Spätis”) often remain open on Sundays and public holidays. These outlets frequently stay open late into the night – some even 24/7 – and stock drinks, snacks and everyday essentials.

Tipping is generally customary but entirely voluntary when it comes to services. It is usually given in cash directly to staff or mentioned before a card payment is processed. The amount can vary depending on the sector – such as hospitality, restaurants, taxis or hair salons. As a general rule, tipping between 5 and 10 percent is considered standard.

As a business traveller, you can enjoy unlimited internet access at over 650 hotspots throughout Berlin. These are especially common at major landmarks, train stations and on buses. Many Berlin hotels, cafés, restaurants and event venues also offer complimentary internet access for their guests. 

For a fully accessible business trip, feel free to consult this overview. It provides all the key information on accessibility in Berlin – from arrival and accommodation to accessible events and tourist attractions. Assistance dogs are permitted in both public and private facilities. For further details about assistance dogs in Berlin, please contact the State Office for Health and Social Affairs.