Introduction
Berlin is the creative European capital of Germany with an incredible history and very interesting culture. Travelling is one of the most exciting experiences anyone would want to go through in life and as a tourist, you may be wondering how much Berlin costs. Well, the answer is not as straight forward as you would expect it to be. In this Berlin guide we plan to reveal different aspects that cause tourists to spend more money while in Berlin so that when plan your trip, you can maximize on your attempts of cutting on the expenses.
The Currency: Euro (€)
The first thing to think about when budgeting to visit Berlin is the currency The local currency is the Euro. Germany’s legal tender currency is the Euro, which is abbreviated as €. If you are from outside Eurozone, this will be important to get an update on exchange rate from your country’s currency to the Euro so as to have a feel of what your money conversion rate would be in Berlin. It is always advisable to use service providers such as Forex Bureau or withdrawing the local currency from an ATM gives better rate as compared to services offered at airport or hotels.
Accommodation Options
With regard to types of accommodation in Berlin, this European city provides a vast choice for tourists with different levels of solventity. From 5 star hotels to small hostels, from inexpensive guest houses, to more luxurious accommodations, there will always be something to your liking. Certainly, widespread regions like Mitte and Kreuzberg are somewhat costlier than areas like Prenzlauer Berg or Wedding, for instance. It is advisable to check for accommodation and book early enough so as to get the right prices and the right accommodation.
Transportation Costs
The cost of moving around the city of Berlin is relatively cheap and stress free. Public transport in the city consists of buses, trams, trains, and underground, otherwise known as U-Sahn. In general, it is a wise thing to buy Berlin Welcome Card, as it will give an unlimited access to some zones and discounts to numerous places in Berlin. Moreover, cycling is also common in Berlin; the city offers many bike roads and cheap bike rental services which make bike a rather ‘green’ and economical way of getting around.
Food and Drink
Berlin is quite the gourmet’s delight with some innovative cuisine to boot. So, it’s quite clear that if you decide to go out for a meal, you can find it for any price range you want. Meat and potatoes, schnitzel and sauerkraut, currywurst, international food chains, gourmet dining and food trucks, market stands and online delivery services – it is an endless list. Tasting local markets, and especially Berlin street food is always a pleasant and cheap endeavor for any food lover. If you are on a fairly tight budget it would be advisable to have lunch because some bistros or restaurants operating lunch specials, otherwise if the desire is a quick bite, there are numerous Imbiss (snack) outlets around the city.
Entertainment and Attractions
The price level of entertainment and attractions in Berlin can also depend on the personality of the person who decides to spend his free time in this city. Some of the museums & galleries may charge a little fee to be paid on entering the premises while others may have low tariffs on particular days or at night. The Museum Island where there are many international famous museums is worth for visiting. Visiting places like the Berlin Wall Memorial or going for a walk around the Brandenburg Gate will set you back nothing, however. There are also many cultural festivities and fairs which take place in Berlin annually, including many festivals, fairs and events, most of which attract either a nominal fee or no charge at all.
Shopping and Souvenirs
If you are planning to shop, then you have every chance to do so in Berlin for the city offers a variety. Depending on your class, fashion consciousness, and pocket you are spoilt for choice for both modern clothing articles and vintage products. Elaborate flea markets like Mauerpark on Sundays sell clothes from the 60s, old furniture, shoes, Pashley bikes and other local-made products at throwaway prices. Don’t forget to haggle!!!! Most Products are highly taxed, look out for products that aren’t taxable and check for Goods that you can claim VAT back on under the Global Blue Tax-Free Shopping scheme which is for non EU residents only.
Conclusion
Thus, can Berlin be considered cheap to visit? Well, this all depends on your interests and how you have planned to travel, the type of accommodation you will go for, the kind of food you’ll be eating and what other activities you will be doing. Of course, Berlin is a budget-friendly city in many instances, but with a little more effort, you can see this city’s best attractions for free or at a low cost. It is advisable to start with the development of the estimated amount of cash to be spent, with the view of outlining the various places, which need to be visited, and the ability to apply discount ratio in any given instance. After a little look around and with some willingness to compromise, you’ll be able to take Berlin for all it is worth, and still remain smiling to your pocket.
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