
What Should You Pack for Berlin?
Berlin’s weather can be unpredictable, so layering is a smart idea, especially in spring and fall. In summer, pack light and breathable clothes for warm days but keep a jacket handy for cooler evenings. Winters can be chilly with the possibility of snow, so a good coat, scarves, and gloves are essential. You’ll want comfortable shoes for walking around Berlin’s historic streets and attractions. No matter when you visit, Berlin’s style is laid-back, so pack outfits that are both practical and comfortable for exploring the city.
Make sure you’re prepared for: Visiting the Berlin Wall Memorial, exploring Museum Island, walking around Brandenburg Gate, touring the Reichstag, and enjoying Berlin’s vibrant street art scene.
Dress Code
Berlin is a city known for its relaxed and edgy style. You’ll see a mix of casual streetwear and fashionable, minimalist outfits. For everyday sightseeing, smart-casual works well, especially if you plan to visit places like Museum Island or the Reichstag. Berlin’s nightlife is famous for its diversity, so pack something trendy if you’re heading out to clubs or concerts. The city’s overall vibe is creative and eclectic, so feel free to experiment with your style!
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Spring
45 – 60°F
(7 – 16°C
)
Summer
65 – 80°F
(18 – 27°C
)
Fall
50 – 65°F
(10 – 18°C
)
Winter
30 – 40°F
(-1 – 5°C
)
Spring: Cool, with occasional rain and mild afternoons
Summer: Warm, with sunny days and occasional rain
Fall: Cool, crisp, some rain
Winter: Cold, with overcast skies and snowfall
Spring
1.8 inches of rain
Summer
2.5 inches of rain
Fall
2.1 inches of rain
Winter
1.9 inches of rain
Tops & Layers
1. Short Sleeve Shirts: Perfect for warm summer days spent exploring Museum Island or walking through Berlin’s parks—I loved wearing these on sunny days!
2. Long Sleeve Shirts: Ideal for layering in spring and fall, especially when walking around the Brandenburg Gate.
3. Sweaters: Great for cooler mornings and evenings in fall and spring—I loved mine for strolling through Berlin’s historic streets.
4. Casual Jacket: A light jacket is essential for breezy evenings, especially when visiting Berlin’s outdoor attractions.
5. Rain Jacket: Handy for unexpected rain showers in spring and fall.
Bottoms & Dresses
1. Pants: Comfortable and versatile, perfect for exploring Berlin’s museums and historic sites—I loved wearing these for all-day city tours!
2. Leggings: Great for layering or casual sightseeing days spent in Berlin’s cafes.
3. Shorts: A good option for warm summer days walking around Berlin’s parks or visiting outdoor markets.
4. Dresses: Stylish yet casual, ideal for dining out or visiting Berlin’s galleries and museums.
5. Skirt: Perfect for a smart-casual look while visiting Berlin’s trendy neighborhoods.
Shoes & Accessories
1. Shoes: Comfortable walking shoes are a must for Berlin’s cobblestone streets and long sightseeing days—I loved wearing mine while exploring Berlin’s parks and museums!
2. Flats: Great for dressing up while still being practical for walking through the city’s neighborhoods.
3. Sandals: Perfect for warm summer days spent enjoying Berlin’s outdoor attractions.
4. Scarf: A stylish and functional accessory that adds warmth and flair to your outfits.
5. Sunglasses: A must for sunny days while walking around Berlin’s parks and city streets.
Luggage & Packs
1. Carry-On: Perfect for short trips, with enough space for essentials while exploring Berlin—I loved mine for weekend getaways!
2. Daypack: Ideal for carrying water, snacks, and a camera while touring Berlin’s museums or walking along the Berlin Wall.
3. Purse: A stylish yet practical option for keeping your personal items secure while enjoying Berlin’s cafes and markets.
4. Tote Bag: Useful for carrying extra layers or souvenirs as you explore Berlin’s trendy neighborhoods.
Travel Essentials
- Reusable Water Bottle: A must-have for travel days and while exploring for the day.
- Packing Cubes: Helpful for staying organized rather than ending up with a heap of clothes in your luggage.
- Luggage Tags: Even if you’re not checking luggage, still good to have in case you misplace your bags.
- Luggage Locks: Can be handy even if you’re not checking luggage, making your backpack more pickpocket-proof.
- Sleep Mask: An eye mask is a game changer for helping you get quality sleep each night.
- White Noise Machine: Same as above. White noise machines have helped me get more consistent sleep.
- Ear Plugs: Much better than the generic foam ones that never stay in my ears.
- Jewelry Case: Especially nice for organizing necklaces and not getting them all tangled.
- Dry Bag: An item to bring if you plan to do a lot of water activities or boat trips.
- Water Shoes: Same as above. Great to bring if you plan to do water activities or boat trips.
- Travel Umbrella: Only if you’re going somewhere where it’s going to be wet and rainy (but not too windy).
- Deck of Cards / Fox in the Forest: I love playing card games while traveling. It’s a fun way to pass the time.
- Portable Charger: It’s surprising how often you don’t have an outlet when you need one, and your phone is essential for everything from directions to your mobile boarding pass.
- Universal Travel Adapter: This universal adapter works in 200+ countries. Great for airports too.
- E-sim: I’ve used Airalo in four different countries now, and it’s the best solution for using data abroad.
- Phone: Currently travel with an iPhone 13 Pro, which also works as my camera for most trips.
- Tablet: I use my iPad mainly for watching shows and movies and checking emails while traveling.
- Headphone Splitter: I use this one with my iPad Air so I can watch shows with my husband on long flights.
- GoPro: A great camera for underwater photography or adventure activities.
- Memory Card for GoPro: This is the one I use for my GoPro, high-quality and reliable.
- Waterproof Phone Case: Even with my GoPro, I end up using this all the time since phone quality photos are so good now.
- Kindle: I love traveling with my Kindle and being able to read multiple books on a trip without the extra weight.
- Noise-Canceling Headphones: These wraparound ones are a must for long plane rides if I want to get any sleep. I also bring Airpods for local bus trips or on-the-go travel when I want to carry something smaller.
- Air Tags: Great if you’re checking luggage in case it gets lost or stolen.
- Chargers: Don’t forget all the chargers you’ll need for the electronics listed above.
- Toiletry Bag: Great for going through security, and they make it easier to find what I want to use.
- Reusable Containers for Toiletries: I use reusable containers so I don’t need to buy expensive travel-sized products.
- Electric Toothbrush: I’ve tried those tiny travel toothbrushes, and they just don’t work for me.
- Toothpaste: These are the perfect travel size that lasts about a month or so for two people.
- Floss: Any floss will do.
- Natural Deodorant: I finally discovered a good natural deodorant. Plus, it’s small, so it’s perfect for travel.
- Shampoo: I get the large size and then just put it in my mini travel containers.
- Conditioner: Same as above. I don’t worry about bringing body wash since I’m okay using whatever’s provided.
- Panty Liners: For when you want some extra protection. Also great for sweaty travel days to keep you more dry.
- Tampons: I like that these are made without plastic, and they’re easy to put into small purses and travel with.
- Tide to Go Pen: Surprisingly handy for getting out those random stains or spills.
- Travel Laundry Detergent: These are useful because you can use them for hand washing or as washer detergent.
- Travel Clothesline: Handy when you need to wash your clothes but realize most of the world doesn’t use dryers.
- Hairbrush: I don’t use a travel-size version because it’s not worth it for me. I’d rather have a full-size brush.
- Hair Ties: Any brand works, but I also make sure to have plenty on hand in my bags.
- After Sun Lotion: Great to have if you’re traveling during the hotter months and expect to get a lot of sun.
- Face Sunscreen: I’ve tried many sunscreen brands, and this is the best face sunscreen I’ve found.
- Body Sunscreen: Reef-safe, easy to spread, and smells good.
- Face Cleanser: I usually get a regular-size bottle and then put it into my refillable travel containers.
- Moisturizer: I’ve tried many fancy moisturizers, and I’ve realized that the simplest ones often work best for me.
- Overnight Face Mask: I use this in daily life as well, but during travel it’s especially good because it’s so hydrating.
- Lip Balm: I’ve been a Burts Bees stan for over a decade, and I don’t think I’ll change anytime soon.
- Makeup: The three essentials I always bring are lip gloss/lipstick, my Clinique CC Cream + makeup brush, and mascara. Everything else is added on depending on the vibes of the trip.
- Travel Razor: I love this size and how easy it is to change the razor heads once a week.
- Razor Replacements: I usually bring enough to replace the razor head once per week while traveling.
- Hydrating Face Sheets: I pack a couple of these to use after long plane rides, great for hydrating your face.
- Travel Mirror: This is a luxury item, but it’s surprising how often I use it when there’s only one bathroom.
- Dry Bar Blow Dryer Brush: Another luxury item. It’s bulky to bring (and I don’t always bring it), but it’s a versatile tool for looking more put together in non-humid destinations.
- Heat Protectant Spray: For the Dry Bar Brush.
- Bug Spray: The most effective spray I’ve found that doesn’t use DEET.
- Tylenol: The best remedy when a headache strikes.
- Motion Sickness Pills: You never know when you might get motion sickness, especially if you’re prone to it like me.
- Tums: Handy for dealing with indigestion or heartburn when eating foods different than you’re used to.
- Pepto Bismol: Another thing to help soothe an upset stomach.
- Other Travel Medications: Make sure to research what else you might need to bring for the destination.
- Electrolyte Powder: Great for staying hydrated, especially after a day in the sun or a long flight.
- Band-Aids: Useful for minor cuts and blisters.
- Anti-Septic Wipes: Keeps wounds clean and prevents infection.
- Unisom SleepMelts: Obviously optional, but these are the only way I’m able to sleep on planes.
- Melatonin: Helps with sleep, especially if you’re adjusting to a new time zone.
- Hand Sanitizer: Essential for keeping your hands clean when soap and water aren’t available.
- Passport
- Travel Visas (if needed)
- Travel Documents, Tickets, Boarding Passes & Booking Confirmations
- Driver’s License / International Driving Permit (if needed)
- Photocopy of Passport (hidden in your pack)
- Emergency Cash – I usually bring US $200 and hide it in 1-2 packs/purses I have with me on travel days in case of an emergency. I make sure it’s separate from my wallet.
- Credit / Debit Cards
- Travel Insurance – Nice to have in case of any medical or travel emergencies.
What to Know Before You Pack
- Layers: Berlin’s weather can change throughout the day, so packing layers is essential.
- Comfortable shoes: The city is walkable, with lots of cobblestone streets, so pack sturdy shoes for sightseeing.
- Smart-casual for nightlife: Berlin’s nightlife is legendary, and while the dress code is relaxed, packing a stylish outfit for going out is a great idea.
- Warm accessories: In winter, gloves, scarves, and hats are necessary to stay comfortable while exploring the city’s outdoor attractions.

Berlin Travel FAQs
WHEN IS THE BEST TIME TO VISIT BERLIN?
May is the best month to visit Berlin. May’s also great because the weather is mild and the parks are in bloom, perfect for outdoor sightseeing. It’s less crowded than the summer months, allowing for easier access to popular attractions like the Berlin Wall and Museum Island.
WHAT FESTIVALS & EVENTS ARE THERE IN BERLIN?
Berlin International Film Festival (February): A major event in the film world, perfect for solo travelers and film enthusiasts.
Carnival of Cultures (June): A vibrant street festival celebrating diversity with food, music, and performances, great for families and groups.
Berlin Pride (July): A large tourist attraction and LGBTQ+ celebration, perfect for couples and friends.
Christmas Markets (November-December): Festive markets with food, gifts, and entertainment, ideal for families and couples.
WHERE SHOULD I GO IN BERLIN?
Berlin is a city full of history, culture, and creativity. Visit the iconic Brandenburg Gate and the Berlin Wall Memorial to get a sense of the city’s historical significance. One of my favorite places is Museum Island, where you can explore world-class museums. Don’t miss out on walking through the East Side Gallery, a section of the Berlin Wall covered in colorful murals, or spending time in the trendy neighborhoods of Kreuzberg and Friedrichshain, known for their vibrant street art and cafes.
HOW MANY DAYS DO I NEED TO VISIT BERLIN?
3-4 days is perfect for exploring Berlin’s main attractions like the Berlin Wall Memorial, Museum Island, and Brandenburg Gate. A weekend can cover the highlights.
Suggested Itineraries:
2 Days: On day one, visit Brandenburg Gate, walk along the Berlin Wall Memorial, and explore Museum Island’s art and history. On day two, visit the East Side Gallery, stroll through Tiergarten Park, and enjoy an evening in Kreuzberg’s vibrant cafe scene.
5 Days: Copy the 2-day itinerary and add: On day three, tour the Reichstag building and visit the Memorial to the Murdered Jews of Europe. Spend day four exploring the trendy neighborhoods of Neukölln and Friedrichshain. On day five, take a day trip to Potsdam to explore the palaces and gardens.
1 Week: Copy the 5-day itinerary and add: On day six, visit the Berlin Zoo and walk through the surrounding Tiergarten Park. On day seven, explore the contemporary art galleries and unique shops in Mitte and Prenzlauer Berg.
10 Days: Copy the 1-week itinerary and add: On day eight, visit the German Historical Museum and stroll along the Unter den Linden boulevard. Spend day nine exploring the alternative culture of RAW-Gelände, and on day ten, relax at one of Berlin’s lakes or take a boat ride on the Spree River.
2 Weeks: Copy the 10-day itinerary and add: On day eleven, visit the nearby Sachsenhausen concentration camp for a day of reflection. Spend days twelve to fourteen exploring more of Berlin’s parks and districts, or take day trips to nearby towns like Leipzig or Dresden.
WHAT SHOULD I PACK FOR 2 DAYS, 5 DAYS, 1 WEEK, 10 DAYS, AND 2 WEEKS IN BERLIN?
2 Days
- 2 Short Sleeve Shirts
- 1 Long Sleeve Shirt
- 1 Pair of Pants
- 1 Dress
- 2 Pairs of Socks
- 2 Pairs of Underwear
- 1 Comfortable Shoes
- 1 Light Jacket
- 1 Daypack
5 Days
- 4 Short Sleeve Shirts
- 2 Long Sleeve Shirts
- 2 Pairs of Pants
- 2 Dresses
- 5 Pairs of Socks
- 5 Pairs of Underwear
- 1 Comfortable Shoes
- 1 Light Jacket
- 1 Daypack
1 Week
- 5 Short Sleeve Shirts
- 3 Long Sleeve Shirts
- 2 Pairs of Pants
- 2 Dresses
- 6 Pairs of Socks
- 6 Pairs of Underwear
- 1 Comfortable Shoes
- 1 Light Jacket
- 1 Daypack
10 Days
- 6 Short Sleeve Shirts
- 3 Long Sleeve Shirts
- 3 Pairs of Pants
- 3 Dresses
- 7 Pairs of Socks
- 7 Pairs of Underwear
- 1 Comfortable Shoes
- 1 Light Jacket
- 1 Daypack
2 Weeks
- 7 Short Sleeve Shirts
- 4 Long Sleeve Shirts
- 4 Pairs of Pants
- 4 Dresses
- 9 Pairs of Socks
- 9 Pairs of Underwear
- 1 Comfortable Shoes
- 1 Light Jacket
- 1 Daypack
WHAT SHOULD I NOT PACK FOR BERLIN?
High heels: Berlin’s cobblestone streets and casual vibe make heels impractical.
Heavy winter coat: Berlin’s winters are cold, but a medium-weight coat with layers is usually sufficient.
WHAT SHOULD I BUDGET FOR A TRIP TO BERLIN ?
Airfare: $400-$1,000 depending on your starting location and the season. Prices tend to increase in the summer.
Accommodation: $80-$200 per night, with higher prices in Mitte or during peak festival times.
Transportation: $20-$50 for public transit, as Berlin’s U-Bahn and S-Bahn systems are efficient and affordable.
Meals: $20-$50 per day, with plenty of affordable options in neighborhoods like Kreuzberg and Neukölln.
Activities: $20-$40 per day depending on whether you visit museums or free attractions like the Berlin Wall and parks.
IS THERE A TIPPING CULTURE IN BERLIN? WHAT IS APPROPRIATE TO TIP?
Yes, tipping is appreciated in Berlin. It’s common to round up the bill or leave a 5-10% tip at restaurants and cafes.
WHAT ARE SOME LOCAL TIPS I SHOULD KNOW ABOUT BERLIN BEFORE I VISIT?
- Use public transport: Berlin’s metro and buses are well-connected and cover the entire city.
- Carry cash: Many smaller restaurants and cafes prefer cash, so keep euros handy.
- Be flexible: Berlin’s casual vibe means there’s no strict dress code, but dressing in layers helps with the city’s changing weather.
- Visit early: Popular sites like the Berlin Wall and Brandenburg Gate can get crowded, so it’s best to visit them early in the day.