Good to know: practical tips for Berlin

The bags are packed and your trip to Berlin is just around the corner. So that you can make your way to the capital with plenty of excitement but without any worries, we have collected these practical tips for a relaxing time in Berlin.

How to get to the heart of the capital

If you travel to Berlin by plane, you will land at BER: Berlin Brandenburg Airport on the south-eastern outskirts of the city. From Berlin Brandenburg Airport you can take the regional trains RE7 and RB14 as well as the S-Bahn S9 and S45 to the central districts.

If you and your children are coming by rail to Berlin, you will normally arrive at Berlin Hauptbahnhof  (Central Station). This has outstanding connections to the local transport network, so  you should then be able to reach your destination quickly and easily by S-Bahn, U-Bahn, bus, or tram. Indeed, this applies to your entire visit to the city: bus, U-Bahn, S-Bahn, and tram are well-suited to take you everywhere you'd want to go. If you'd like to make it particularly easy for yourself, get a Berlin WelcomeCard. This gives the holder and up to 3 children up to 14 years of age unlimited public transport.

What you should know about Berliners

Berliners have a naturally laid-back attitude. This is expressed especially in its casual dress code. Whether it's a chic Restaurant or a classy bar, you don't have to worry about getting weird looks if you didn't bring your most elegant evening dress with you to Berlin.

The famous Berlin attitudealso matches this. It can vary somewhere between honest and rough, but it's always full of heart.

How to experience stress-free sightseeing in Berlin

So that you don't have to queue for long in front of Berlin's popular attractions, buy your tickets online. This applies in particular to the Reichstag.  Although it is free to visit, you can only visit if you have registered in advance. But you can also buy tickets for other popular landmarks such as the TV Tower from the comfort of your own home and then stroll right past the queues at the ticket offices. You've already seen all the big landmarks? Then take your sightseeing tour off the beaten track with the free  "Going Local" smartphone app. With over 700 Berlin tips, events, and restaurant recommendations, you can discover every corner of the capital from Spandau to Lichtenberg.

Berlin is a safe destination for families

Berlin is a very safe city. Intercom systems, emergency call stations, and cameras ensure that you can reach out to public safety officers day and night. If you're out and about in the suburban districts at night, you can also easily get home from here. The buses will even stop between stops to save you unnecessary walking.

Also good to know: as a capital city, Berlin often sees demonstrations. Even if these are usually peaceful, we suggest going around the crowdso that you don't get separated. Please also note demonstrations can mean bus lines have to be rerouted. Take a close look at the timetable.