First Time in Berlin? What to Expect from Your Trip

Berlin is unmeasurable in terms of architecture and grandeur, but what to expect from this city on your first visit?

The vibrant German capital is a place where history, tradition, and modernness harmoniously blend to blow away its visitors. Everything from luxurious shopping and fancy restaurants to lively bars, Berlin has got it all.

And although it has a dark historical background, the capital of Germany is now one of the safest and most liberal cities worldwide.

Looking at the city today, it is hard to imagine that it was once separated into two distinct areas. The present moment gives you a bohemian, vibrant, and magical city that has nothing to do with its bleak past. You would be thrilled to discover at every step how artful the Berlin streets are, how abundant its culture is, and how gorgeous its sights are.

Berlin is without a doubt a city that intrigues, lures, and amazes with its eclectic diversity. So, if you have decided to visit it in the near future, we can only congratulate you. Still, you have to know some things before embarking on this journey.

Being in Berlin for the first time might be overwhelming, but if you consider some of these aspects below, you are going to have a fantastic experience.

The Brandenburg Gate symbolises the German capital

You must have heard about the Brandenburg Gate, which is one of the city’s most famous landmarks. Nevertheless, what does it stand for, and why is it so well-known today?

Due to the significant historical events that happened here throughout time, the historical gate has become a meaningful symbol for the city and an important tourist attraction that millions of visitors admire daily.

The Brandenburg Gate dates back to the eighteenth century (1790) and was based on the Athens Acropolis. Its outstanding architecture takes your breath away even today, at about 230 years since it’s construction.

However, the gate suffered several changes throughout the years. During World War II, the Brandenburg Gate was damaged, so it was in poor condition until recently. Moreover, its passage was blocked for a long time and thus not accessible to visitors. Fortunately, it was repaired and is now open to tourists, so do not hesitate to visit it when in Berlin, especially if you plan to see the Reichstag that is nearby.

There are many ways to get around

When it comes to transportation, Berlin has it all. From buses and trams to the underground and S-Bahn (train), Berlin provides its people and visitors with several transport options so that you can choose anything suitable for you.

Although many of the major tourist attractions are only a short distance from each other, you may find it interesting to venture out from Berlin centre to other neighbourhoods by bus or train. Besides, it is an excellent opportunity to get to know the city and live like a local.

Furthermore, if you live in other parts of Europe like the Netherlands, you can get to Berlin by train in a couple of hours and at an affordable price. Travelling by train has long been underestimated, but it is one of the most pleasant modes of transport, particularly when you have all the necessary conditions for a safe and comfortable trip.

If you are looking for a modern, reasonably priced trip to Berlin, we heartily recommend you take a train to Berlin. The train will take you directly to the Berlin centre, from where you can begin your adventure.

The city’s informal dress code

We know it might sound preposterous, but some areas in Germany impose some rules regarding fashion. In some zones, casual dress is a must, but in Berlin, you are free to dress in whatever you like. The German capital is open to everyone and everything; maybe the only rule to follow is to be yourself.

Berlin people embrace authenticity, so whatever goes as original, genuine, and free is going to be cool.

Of course, you are likely to see distinct styles based on which district you visit. Thus, in districts like Neukölln or Kreuzberg, it is possible to see people dressed more casually. At the same time, individuals in neighbourhoods such as Mitte and Charlottenburg tend to express themselves through elegant and more ritzy clothes.

You might also have heard about the techno style that dominates today’s Berlin streets. Well, it is true. In the coolest Berlin districts, you are likely to encounter more people wearing leather and combat boots and dark clothes with holes and rips, but this is not a general rule. You do not have to worry about what to wear when visiting the German capital. Just be yourself, or as German people would say, sei du selbst!

Berlin is your chance to try various foods

Many may not know, but the German capital is home to many international cuisines. Thus, you have the opportunity to try everything from Turkish and Mexican food to Vietnamese and Thai delicacies. And this should be no surprise since Berlin is a capital of various languages, nationalities, and cultures.

The city’s diversity is symbolised by the many nationalities that emigrated during the Cold War. Nevertheless, for a truly German experience, we advise you to try the many German dishes like eisbein and schnitzel that are probably on most restaurants’ menus.

The most famous foods to eat in Berlin are the doner kebab, which is, in fact, of Turkish origin, currywurst, and Berliner (a traditional pastry). And let us not forget about the German beer! The Berliner Weiss is every beer’s passionate dream!

Other facts about Berlin you do not want to miss: