Things to know when driving Berlin
As a vibrant mix of the traditional and modern architecture and attractions, Berlins is a popular city with a lot going on. Located in the northeast of Germany, it’s well placed for exploring the rest of the country.
Germany has a good road network and driving in Berlin is relatively easy to become accustomed to. Like many other German cities, Berlin has a central ‘environmental zone’ where vehicle access is restricted. To enter these areas drivers must buy and display a sticker.
Berlin is located within the German federal state of Brandenburg. Drive beyond the urban center and you’ll find yourself powering through a stunning landscape of crystal clear lakes, pine forests, and pounding rivers.
In Germany you drive on the right-hand side of the road and although people often believe the autobahns (motorways) to have no speed limits, in fact, they do. The standard speed limit on German roads is 50kph for built up areas and 60kph in non-built up areas. On autobahns, the speed limit is 130kph but be sure to look out for any instances where this may change.
Those traveling with children should be aware of specific rules. Children aged 12 or under, or shorter than 1.5 meters, must be seated in a suitable child seat and children aged three or under must travel in the backseat.
More About Traveling Berlin
A fascinating and colorful city that has wide appeal to romantic couples, families and friendship groups alike, Berlin is an outstanding European destination. The city is home to some of Europe’s most striking architecture, which in turn lends the city a sense of progressiveness that contrasts nicely with its century’s long heritage.
The German Parliament, the Reichstag, embodies this approach. Originally erected in 1894, the building has since undergone extensive renovation and now has a roof comprised only of glass, affording visitors stunning panoramic views of the city below. Of course, the monument this city is most closely associated with is the Berlin Wall and today, Checkpoint Charlie, the border control base, is a tourist destination where you can learn more about those troubled times. If you’re heading to Berlin, here are a few more activities to keep you busy.
Shop about
Berlin is an excellent city for simply wandering. Neighborhoods merge without your even realizing and, if you’re a retail addict, you’ll find interesting and quirky buying opportunities at almost every turn. Mauerpark in Prenzlauer Berg, once a section of the Berlin Wall but now a green public space, hosts a brilliant flea market every Sunday where you can pick up anything from an old violin to silk scarves and costume jewelry.
Those who prefer a more polished shopping experience will adore Berlin’s epic department stores. The most well-known are the Kaufhaus de Westens (also known as KaDeWe) which sells every luxury product imaginable. Designer clothes, perfumes, high-end electronics… you name it and you’ll find it here.
Look and learn
Berliners are a learned lot and they’re understandably proud of their fantastic selection of museums. Five of these are to be found on the River Spree in an area known as Museum Island, a UNESCO-listed World Heritage Site. Those with even a passing interest in archaeology should visit Peramonmuseum, where exhibits include articles dating from Roman times and the days of Babylon. Over at the Neues Museum, meanwhile, you’ll discover the iconic Egyptian bust of Queen Nefertiti amongst prehistoric items and classical antiquities. Away from Museum Island and the DDR Museum takes visitors on a journey through the more recent past, exploring life in East Germany pre-1990 and the fall of the Berlin Wall.
Eat, drink and dance
Berlin has a strong food tradition and no visit is complete with sampling an authentic currywurst or Berliner doughnut. However, this is a sophisticated city and whatever you’re looking for – be it fine dining or rustic street food – you will find it here.
