Do I need to speak German?

No. English is widely spoken in all tourist areas, restaurants, and public transit. Knowing 'Danke' (thanks) and 'Entschuldigung' (excuse me) is appreciated.

Compared to London or Paris, Berlin is quite affordable. You can eat a filling meal for 10-15 euros.

How to Spend a Weekend in Berlin

Focus your time on Mitte and Kreuzberg to minimize transit. Use the U-Bahn and S-Bahn for all travel, and stick to a mix of historical walking tours and independent gallery hopping to get the best of the city's duality.

Master the transit system. Download the BVG Fahrinfo app immediately. Buy a 48-hour Berlin ABC ticket for 28 euros; it covers all trains, trams, and buses, including your transport to and from BER airport.
Book museum slots online. The Pergamon Museum and the Reichstag dome require advance bookings. Reserve your Reichstag time slot at least 2 weeks before your trip via the official Bundestag website.
Validate your tickets. If you buy paper tickets, stamp them in the yellow or red boxes on the platforms. Failure to do this makes your ticket invalid and results in a 60-euro fine.

Do I need to speak German?: No. English is widely spoken in all tourist areas, restaurants, and public transit. Knowing 'Danke' (thanks) and 'Entschuldigung' (excuse me) is appreciated.
Is Berlin expensive?: Compared to London or Paris, Berlin is quite affordable. You can eat a filling meal for 10-15 euros.