What You Need to Know about the Berlin U-Bahn
Berlin’s U-Bahn system lends itself to so much mystery. Descending into dark tunnels, there’s no idea of what is going on outside, and who or what exactly the train drivers are honking their horns at underground. We’re still not certain of the answer to that question, but here are some practical, fun facts about Berlin’s beloved underground.
Berlin’s public transport consists of several integrated networks – but what’s the U-Bahn?
The U-Bahn is Berlin’s urban underground railway system. The yellow trains are iconic, and run every two to five minutes during peak hours, and every five minutes for the remainder of the day or every 10 minutes in the evenings. Delays are just a part of Berlin life. Luckily there will be a busker playing his guitar or violin in the station that will help you pass the time.
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Uncover my top 3 recommended places from each continent on the map.
CentralAmerica
1. Guatemala
An express adventure for those with limited time off. Prepare yourself incredible experiences. You will hike a volcano, visit mayan temples and witness a ceremony and take in beautiful colonial Antigua.Next
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A quick trip not too far away for those seeking a relaxing mini break. You will have plenty of free time to relax but also some awesome activities to experience the rainforest and the caribbean sea. Next
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3. Mexico
An exciting mini trip exploring the lesser known colonial towns of central Mexico. This is hte perfect trip for someone with limited time off and still wants to turn on explorer mode and do something different. SouthAmerica
1. Ecuador
A remarkable 8 days adventure through the Andes and the Amazon rainforest. The best choice for adventure seekers wishing to visit the 2 most iconic areas of South America, in only 1 week and no flights.Next
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2. Peru
An alternative itinerary to classic Peru, from Cusco to Arequipa. This itinerary is great combination of highlights Cusco and Machu Picchu with the lesser known Arequipa and Colca Canyon. Europe
1. Italy
The ultimate Italian experience from the vibrant streets of Naples to the breathtaking sceneries of the Amalfi Coast followed by Matera and down to Puglia with its golden beaches, intense flavours and fascinating destinations.Next
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2. Scotland
Embark on this great adventure starting from London all the way to Scotland with a true Scottish experience made of breathtaking sceneries, whisky tasting and ..lots of fun! Ideal for train lovers and explorers. Next
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3. Portugal
A wonderful train journey around Portugal, from the romantic city of Porto to the Douro Valley, to the beautiful Aveiro all the way to Lisbon and Sintra. The perfect trip to train, culinary and culture lovers. Asia
1. South Korea
Discover incredible temples, mountains and modern cities on this 10 day adventure. This trip is perfect for those seeking immersion in the cuisine, culture and natural wonders of South Korea.Next
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2. Thailand
From Bankgok to Angkor Wat to Ho Chi Minh City and everything in between - adventure through the heart of South-East Asia. Taste the delights, see history brought to life and unwind on a Mekong River cruise. Next
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3. Sri Lanka
A fantastic adventure that showcases Sri Lanka's fantastic landscapes, wildlife and flavours. With 3 epic rail journeys, 3 UNESCO heritage sites and time to relax, this trip has loads to offer at a great price Africa
1. Morocco
An epic journey across Morocco: from Casablanca to Marrakech, through the blue city of Chefchaouen to the wonders of the desert and deep to the High Atlas Mountains - this trip has it all! Ideal for true explorers!Next
Africa
2. Egypt
From Cairo to Aswan, this trip brings the land of the pharaohs to life. You'll visit the Pyramids, Valley of the Kings and Luxor Temple and cruise down the Nile in style. This is the perfect way to explore Egypt. Next
One in three people in jail are there for not paying transport tickets
Yep, riding the trains for free in Berlin is not cool, and if your fines add up, you could possibly land in jail. The U-Bahn functions on a kind of honestly policy, so there is no one checking your ticket in the station; although every day, plain clothes ticket inspectors roam the underground ready to catch out any ticket dodgers. Being caught without a valid ticket will earn you a €60 fine and an uncomfortable conversation when you are hauled off the train. Make sure your ticket is also valid for the zone you are travelling in; most inspectors are not sympathetic to any mistakes you make.
Drinking on the U-Bahn – or anywhere in Berlin – is basically allowed, despite the small signs that tell you not to
Berlin is a city where people mind their own business. Thanks to the wonderful unofficial institution that is the späti, grabbing a drink to accompany you on your journey underground is easy. It’s not uncommon to see people sitting on the train with a beer in hand at any given time of the day, and nobody minds – as long as you act respectfully. Which lead to the next tip…
The U-Bahn is OK with you being weird
The Berlin Transport Authority (BVG) wanted to send out the message that it’s not important how you look, where you come from, or what skin color you have – they’re just there to take you from one place to another.
In 2015, BVG released a video campaign that took Europe by storm. The video featured rapper Kazim Akboga in official BVG uniform, riding the underground rapping a tune with the hook “Ist mir egal,” meaning “I don’t care.” What exactly was BVG’s carefree message? That you can ride a horse, do the splits, be a bearded woman, wear a rabbit costume, grate cheese, chop onions, spontaneously striptease, bring a dog in a shark costume, basically – whoever you are, they don’t care. The only thing they care about is that you’ve got a valid ticket to ride the train.
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meet our Local Insider
Hanna
HOW LONG HAVE YOU BEEN A GUIDE?
2 years.
WHAT DO YOU LOVE ABOUT YOUR JOB?
It's the personal contact, the personal experiences. I love meeting people from all over the world... I really like getting to know everyone and feeling like I'm traveling with a group of friends.
WHAT DESTINATION IS ON YOUR TRAVEL BUCKET-LIST?
I have so many places on my list, but I would really lobe to go to Africa. I consider myself an “adventure girl” and Africa feels like the ULTIMATE adventure!
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Culture Trip launched in 2011 with a simple yet passionate mission: to inspire people to go beyond their boundaries and experience what makes a place, its people and its culture special and meaningful — and this is still in our DNA today. We are proud that, for more than a decade, millions like you have trusted our award-winning recommendations by people who deeply understand what makes certain places and communities so special.
Increasingly we believe the world needs more meaningful, real-life connections between curious travellers keen to explore the world in a more responsible way. That is why we have intensively curated a collection of premium small-group trips as an invitation to meet and connect with new, like-minded people for once-in-a-lifetime experiences in three categories: Culture Trips, Rail Trips and Private Trips. Our Trips are suitable for both solo travelers, couples and friends who want to explore the world together.
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