BERLIN
Complete Travel Guide
Berlin is the capital and largest city of Germany, a truly cosmopolitan destination where you’ll find history, culture, nightlife, and plenty of green spaces surrounded by lakes and nature.
We were lucky enough to live in Berlin for a year, so we didn’t just experience the city as tourists, but also from an everyday perspective. In this guide we’ll share the best things to see and do in Berlin, beyond the historical side the city is most known for.
Here you’ll find everything you need to know to plan your trip to Berlin: what to see, where to stay, how to get around the city, neighborhoods and areas to explore, parks and lakes, nightlife, special events, and practical tips based on our own experience.
Our Experience Living in Berlin
Living in Berlin was our first long-term experience abroad. At first, we didn’t know much about the city beyond its history.
When we first arrived, we felt a somewhat heavy atmosphere due to the weight of its past. However, over time, once we looked beyond the typical tourist perspective, we began discovering everything Berlin has to offer.
One of the things that impressed us most was the freedom of expression. You can dress how you want and be who you are without feeling judged. That sense of freedom is palpable and was one of our favorite things about the city.
That said, if you visit during winter, keep in mind that it can be extremely cold and the days are short, with very little daylight. It’s an incredible city, but the season can be quite harsh.
Our Advice Before Visiting Berlin
Berlin isn’t a city you fully grasp with just a quick visit. It has a powerful history, a unique energy, and a sense of freedom that resonates in every neighborhood.
If possible, take your time to explore it slowly. Walk the streets, use public transport, sit in a park, get lost in different areas, and try not to focus solely on the tourist hotspots.
We hope this guide helps you plan your trip and experience Berlin from a more authentic perspective, not just as a tourist destination, but as the city we called home.