Going out in Berlin: Budget Travel Guide

Ten years ago, Neukölln was one of Berlin’s major Problemkieze, a working class neighborhood more known for urban grit than as a popular tourist destination. But the neighborhood wasn’t without its charms: To insiders, it was always known as a great place to explore. You could come across amazing finds (with prices to match) at one » Read more

As the end of November rolls around, busy little elves begin constructing mini-villages of wooden huts across the entirety of Berlin, and city natives begin to get restless for a taste of mulled wine and roasted chestnuts. By December, new residents have moved in, brightly displaying their wares and opening their cottages for business—the Christmas » Read more

In 2001, a relatively obscure local politician named Klaus Wowereit proudly declared: “I’m gay, and it’s a good thing.” Berliners wasted no time electing him mayor, and he has been in office ever since. San Francisco may have boys with flowers in their hair, but Berlin is arguably the most gay-friendly city. Mayor Wowereit, affectionately » Read more

When Berlin was divided, each side fostered its own set of performing arts venues. As a result, Berlin has not one, not two, but three state-sponsored operas today. Here’s a guide to divas, deception and drama—all so unglamorously affordable.

Feeling musically inspired by Berlin’s vibrant arts and entertainment scene? Cheapos, step right up to Bearpit Karaoke! In February 2009, Irish expat Joe Hatchiban plugged in a karaoke set at Berlin’s Mauerpark Flea Market in Prenzlauer Berg. A bicycle courier by day, Hatchiban toted the necessary equipment on his vehicle: a laptop with karaoke mp3s, a microphone, » Read more

Nothing says summer like a great concert. Good thing Berlin has plenty of acts—both indoor and out—to offer when the weather gets hot in July and August. Big shows with hefty price tags, including Patti Smith, Prince, Stevie Wonder, Arcade Fire and more, will hit the capital’s dozens of stages this season. But there are » Read more

New York, Los Angeles and Paris aren’t the world’s only cinematic cities. Filmmakers love to set their films against Berlin’s exciting cityscape (which also hosts the annual Berlinale film festival). “Inglorious Basterds,” “The Bourne Supremacy” and “A Good German” are just a few of the films that have been enhanced by the city’s historic and » Read more