Reisetipps

Berlin is a fascinating city year-round, although most visitors arrive between May and September when the weather is the most reliable. Things are busier in high season, but despite the crowds, summer is a lovely time to be here because much of life moves outdoors. Rain is, however, possible in any month, so come prepared. From November to early March, skies tend to be gloomy and the mercury often drops below freezing. On the plus side, there are fewer visitors and shorter queues. Avoid major holidays like Easter, Christmas and New Year and special events such as Loveparade - unless, of course, that's what brings you here in the first place.

Berlin's calendar is loaded with annual fairs, festivals, concerts and parties. The Berlinale (Berlin International Film Festival), the second largest in the world, is held in February. Festage (Festival Days) is a high-brow hoe-down of gala concerts and operas held over 10 days in April. Britspotting, a small festival of British and Irish films held in May, is popular with the Berlin arthouse crowd. Christopher Street Day is the city's big gay parade; it hits the streets in June. Step out gracefully in August to the Internationales Tanzfest Berlin, Berlin's premier dance and experimental choreography event. JazzFest Berlin doo-wops in November and Weihnachtsmärkte (Christmas markets) are held throughout the city in the month before the big day. All shops, banks, government offices and post offices close on public holidays.