Berlin: Tips

Language You can get around Berlin with English and a smile, but a phrase book will smooth the way. “Please” (Bitte) and “Thank you” (Vielen Dank or Danke schön) are a good start.

Tipping Ask for the bill when you want it – German servers don’t want to rush you, but they will expect you to pay as soon as you get it. Tips are usually rounded up to the next euro, or 10% of the bill – include it when you pay, don’t leave it on the table.

Never on a Sunday Most stores in Germany are closed on Sunday, but you can always go shopping in one of the many train stations, all reachable by public transportation.

Always on a Sunday You may not be able to shop on Sunday, but you can eat. The Brunch trend is going strong all over the city. For a few euro, take your fill at a fresh, well-prepared buffet in a relaxed atmosphere.

No free rides You can board Berlin’s subways and trams without a ticket, but if caught by a train monitor, you’ll be fined 40. Get yours at the ticket machines for 2.10, and make sure to validate it. Better yet, get an all-day unlimited ride pass for under 6.10.

Art is all around Berlin is full of masterpiece-filled museums and ultra-trendy galleries, but don’t forget to look at the walls and sidewalks or you’ll miss street art by some of Europe’s best graffiti, stencil, and sticker artists.

Taxis Berlin is easily navigated by public transportation, but a splurge on a taxi will get you a comfortable ride and a polite driver. If you ask for a short trip (Kurzstrecke) in a hailed cab, you’ll pay a flat fee for an up to 2-km. ride. One easy-to-remember access number is 0800-CAB-CALL.