Berlin, the capital of Germany, is a lively and exciting city with plenty to offer visitors. With a range of festivals and events, it offers a fun-filled trip at any time of the year.
Berlin boasts a continental climate with hot summers and cold winters. The chilliest months are from December until the end of February, while the warmest months are from June until the end of August. Every year, Berlin is host to a number of festivals. On 1st May, which is Labour Day, Kreuzberg offers a varied programme of stage performances, live music, and tasty morsels. On Whitsun (Pentecost) weekend, the Carnival of Cultures takes place. The lively street procession of people wearing stunning costumes and masks is the highlight of the carnival. On 21st June is the Fête de la Musique, which takes place on over 100 stage venues. During this time the public are treated to a music extravaganza performed by professionals and amateur musicians.
The official language of Berlin is German; so its a good idea to take your phrasebook along if you're unfamiliar with the language. Cycling in Berlin is a popular mode of transport, and the flat terrain and designated bike paths make it easy to get around in safety. There are also bicycle roads that give priority to cyclists over cars. The cost of living in Berlin, including dining out, groceries, transport, and accommodation, tends to be less expensive than in the UK. The time zone in Berlin is one hour ahead of UK.
There is a wide selection of hotels to choose from in Berlin to suit a variety of budgets. Hostels are relatively cheap and costs are from 10 EUR per night. Hotels are a more expensive option and are available from around 35 EUR upwards.
After landing at Berlin Brandenburg International airport, please take the train, S-bahn (city line), bus or taxi to reach your final destination. A train station is located under the terminal. Regional and city trains operate regularly to central Berlin.
Airport Express trains and regional trains are the fastest way to travel to the city centre. City lines S 9 and S 45 (also available from terminal 5 station) take passengers to Ostkreuz station which is very central and also a major station with connections to many other parts of the city.
Tickets to the city centre cost from 3,60 Euro.
Buses also leave from the terminals with a journey time of about 30 minutes and ticket prices starting from 2.70 Euros.
A good option for travel around the city is the Berlin WelcomeCard, a tourist travel card which offers 50% discount to admission for many museums and attractions. Tickets for public transport bought from underground and S-Bahn stations should be validated before travelling.
Taxis in Berlin are slightly cheaper than in the UK, with a special short-distance tariff if you flag down a car for rides of less than 2km. Every district in Berlin has its own individual character, so explore and find your favourite.
| Flight duration | min. 02:05 / max. 02:10 |
|---|---|
| Return flight duration | min. 02:20 |
| Distance | 1217 km |
| Flights per week | 7 |
| Departure airport | Airport Glasgow (GLA) |
| Arrival airport | Airport Berlin Brandenburg (BER) |
| Destination country | Flights to Germany |