DK Eyewitness - Berlin Like a Local: By the People Who Call It Home (Travel Guide)

People flock to Berlin to live true to themselves. This is a place where starry-eyed artists get inspired in graffitied alleys, LGBTQ+ folks cuddle their partners in public and immigrants find refuge in the citys unadulterated freedom. Born Berliners are a rare breed; rather, Berlin is a patchwork of nonconformists and hedonists from far and wide. And despite their (many) differences, theyre bound by tolerance and solidarity. Gentrifying forces may brew but Berliners fiercely defend their lifestyle and one another, whether scaring off Google from opening a campus or rallying for renters rights.

This is a city of survivors, after all. A difficult past is a canvas for todays shabby chic aesthetic the Berlin Wall is constantly reinvented with new art, bomb shelters become decadent clubs and disused industrial estates turn into lush parks. Creativity is the backbone of this ever-changing city. Your favourite mural, underground party or apartment contract may disappear in a second, but Berliners roll with the punches. They know that every change brings something new to discover, whether its a hidden pop-up restaurant or a boundary-pushing bookstore.

In a city thats always redefining itself, getting to know all of its facets isnt easy. Thats where this book comes in. We know how Berliners spend their time, from shedding their inhibitions (and wardrobe) at sex-positive nights to getting their fix of the ultimate dner kebab. Of course, these pages can never capture such a diverse, spontaneity-driven city entirely. Instead, this book celebrates snapshots of local life and inspires you to choose your own adventure.

Whether youre a seasoned Berliner sussing out the citys secrets or seeking to strike beyond the iconic sights, this book will help you embrace the weird and wonderful energy at Berlins heart.

Berlin | WELCOME TO THE CITY

Liked by the locals

In Berlin, anything goes as long as you respect others. That unbridled freedom makes it a haven for self-expression and nonconformity beloved by creative types, queer folks and free spirits from all backgrounds and stripes.

BARBARA WOOLSEY, TRAVEL WRITER

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Berlin

THROUGH THE YEAR

Something is always afoot in this vibrant city. Think alfresco parties in the summer, spa soaks in the autumn and festive markets in the winter.

SPRING

MARKETS GALORE

Marking the transition from winter to spring is the return of the citys beloved markets. Peddlers set up their stalls with vintage treasures and tasty treats, perfect for a days mooch.

THE GREAT OUTDOORS

Surviving the brittle winter makes spring that much sweeter. Joggers return to the streets, cyclists hit the roads en masse and Sunday Spaziergnge (strolls) become much more appealing.

BEER GARDENING

The moment Berliners have been waiting for since late September finally arrives: the reopening of beer gardens.