How to Survive the Berlin Winter

The winters in Berlin can be brutal. In fact, Berlin is one of the coldest capitals in Europe. The average temperature in January is just 0.5°C (33°F), and winters can bring temperatures below -10°C (14°F) and even lower. Even with layers of heavy clothing, it can be difficult to stay warm during the winter in Berlin – so how can you make sure you survive the chill? Here’s everything you need to know to make it through a Berlin winter.

Find the Right Clothes

The key to surviving a Berlin winter is to stay warm. To do this, you will need to focus on two things – layers and waterproofing. It’s important to choose clothes that are comfortable and that can easily be layered. Make sure to stock your wardrobe with items such as fleeces, insulated jackets, thermal base layers, and thick, waterproof outerwear. You should also have appropriate accessories like hats, scarves, and gloves – these will act as extra layers to keep you warm. Even in the summer, it’s important to have a waterproof coat and some warm layers on hand – the weather in Berlin can change quickly!

Eat Hearty Dishes

When the temperature drops, it’s important to eat hearty, filling meals. There are plenty of traditional winter dishes in Germany such as Schweinshaxe, Käsespätzle, and Maultaschen that are perfect for wintertime eating. Try these meals in a restaurant or make them at home – they’re easy to make and they taste great! Soup is also a great choice, as it’s warm, filling, and nutritious – plus, it’s perfect for cold days in Berlin.

Stay Warm Indoors

When the temperature outside is too cold to bear, head indoors and make the most of your time at home or in businesses. With winter activities such as films, Christmas markets and illuminations, there’s plenty to do inside! We recommend visiting Grünewald Der Zoo, the city’s largest indoor amusement park, or kicking back in RollBanana, a cozy TV bar.

Enjoy Winter Sports

Did you know that Berlin has some of the best ski slopes in Europe? If you want to get out for some fresh air, why not visit one of the city’s many ski resorts? Just a short drive from the city, Teufelsberg, Gaissau and Grosser Krakennkopf are all great places to ski or snowboard! If skiing isn’t your thing, you can go ice skating on Tegeler See or rent some skis at Skiverleih in Berlin.

Have Fun in the Snow

Berlin gets its fair share of snow during winter – and this means plenty of opportunities for winter fun! Head out for a snowball fight or build a snowman in Monbijoupark – one of the city’s biggest parks. If it’s too cold for outdoors play, why not make some models out of icy material? Ice sculpting is an ancient art form that has been popular since ancient times – and it’s relatively easy to learn! All you need is a block of ice, some tools (such as saws and chisels), and some warm clothes!

Take Care of Your Health

The winter months can be hard on your body. Make sure you take extra care of your health by eating nutritious meals, taking multivitamins, getting plenty of sleep, and exercising regularly. Catching the common cold might be inevitable – but taking precautions can help ward off more serious illnesses. If you start feeling unwell, don’t hesitate to visit a local doctor – Berlin has many options when it comes to healthcare. Surviving a Berlin winter isn’t easy – but with the right preparation and a lot of layers, it’s entirely possible! Following these tips is a great start – but you should also get creative when it comes to staying warm and having fun during the colder months. After all, winter in Berlin is still an experience to behold!

Insider’s Guide to Berlin: Surviving the Winter with Style and Fun

Local Attractions: Beyond the Tourist Spots

Berlin is synonymous with history and cultural diversity, but the city has more to offer than the usual attractions. Take a stroll in the Graefekiez neighborhood, it’s a trendy area that can rival any of Brooklyn’s hipster neighborhoods. You’ll find plenty of independent shops, cafes, bars, and restaurants there. For a unique art experience, visit Tacheles, a former department store turned art center, where you can see artworks from local artists. Another hidden gem is the abandoned Flughafen Tempelhof, a former airport turned public park where you can have a picnic and watch people doing sports or flying kites.

Dining Spots: Savoring Berlin’s Local Cuisine

In Berlin, you’ll find more than just sausages and beer. Take a food tour to taste the city’s diverse culinary culture. Start with Currywurst, a staple street food of Berlin, a sausage with curry ketchup, and fries. Another staple is Döner Kebab, which was invented in Berlin by Turkish immigrants. For a more adventurous palate, try Eintopf, a traditional German stew, or enjoy a classic Wiener Schnitzel. Don’t miss the chance to try Berlin’s famous pastries, such as Apfelstrudel, Pflaumenkuchen (plum cake), and Baumkuchen (tree cake), a layered cake with chocolate glazing.

Cultural Experiences: Festivals, Music, and Art

Winter in Berlin is not just about the cold, but also about the festive atmosphere. From November to January, the city hosts various Christmas markets. The one at Gendarmenmarkt, which is free to enter, is an absolute must-see, with beautiful lights, concerts, and tasty treats. For music lovers, there’s the Berliner Philharmonie, where you can listen to world-class classical and contemporary music performances. For contemporary art, the C/O Berlin museum is a fantastic option, with a rotating exhibition of photography, art, and media, including works from renown artists like Annie Leibovitz, Wolfgang Tillmans, and Ai Weiwei.

Local History: Fascinating Stories from Berlin’s Past

Berlin has a rich history with plenty of intriguing stories. For example, you can visit the former checkpoint at Checkpoint Charlie, where the American and Soviet tanks faced each other during the Cold War. Or visit the Berlin Wall Memorial, where you can see the remains of the Wall and learn about the dramatic history behind it. A lesser-known historical spot is the Sachsenhausen concentration camp, located outside of Berlin. It’s now a memorial and educational museum that offers a somber reflection on the city’s past.

Off-the-Beaten-Path Suggestions: Unforgettable and Unique Tips

For a unique experience, how about a visit to Liquidrom, a spa where you can float in a saltwater pool while listening to underwater music. Or take a boat tour on the Spree, where you can see Berlin’s famous landmarks from the water. If you’re a fan of vintage finds, head to one of the city’s flea markets, such as the Markthalle Neun, where you can find anything from retro clothes, antiques, and vinyl records. To get a taste of the city’s subculture, check out a live concert at SO36, a legendary punk rock club that has welcomed many icons over the years.

In summary, Berlin is an exciting city during the winter, with plenty of experiences to offer visitors. From hidden attractions to unique dining spots, cultural events to fascinating history, Berlin is a city that demands exploration beyond the tourist spots. Use this insider’s guide and explore the city like a local, and you never know, you may just fall in love with Berlin during the winter as well!