As we head to Germany for the latest episode of MisInfoNation with our friends Tom and Felix we thought we’d explore the nations capital a little more here on the Cerca Blog.
For anyone who has visited, Berlin isn’t just about the Brandenburg Gate, techno clubs, or the iconic TV Tower. While tourists flock to the usual haunts, there are places in this city that locals like to keep to themselves. As seasoned travel writers and podcasters we’ve walked more miles in Berlin than we’d like to admit. And we’ve discovered some hidden gems that’ll have you blending in with the locals in no time.
Why Local Travel Tips Matter (And Not Just for Your Instagram Aesthetic)
Sure, TripAdvisor reviews are cool, but have you ever had a conversation with a local who steered you toward a tucked-away café or an eco-conscious market you didn’t even know existed? Local travel tips are the secret sauce to authentic experiences. They help you dodge overpriced, crowded tourist spots and uncover the soul of a city. Plus, locals tend to know all the best sustainable, eco-friendly hacks—because they live there and care about their city’s future.
So, how do you “travel like a local”? Let us break it down for you. First, ditch the guided tours, hop off the beaten path, and keep reading to uncover Berlin’s best-kept secrets that locals really don’t want you to blow up on TikTok. (But we trust you!)
1. Clärchens Ballhaus: Dance Like Nobody’s Watching…
Tired of Berlin’s techno scene? Yeah, we said it. Enter Clärchens Ballhaus, a vintage dance hall that’s been around since 1913. This place has seen more than a century of dance-offs, love stories, and likely a few embarrassing moments. Locals flock here for swing nights, tango, and live music sessions that bring a whole new vibe to your Berlin experience. Plus, it’s a slice of history.
2. Markthalle Neun: Where Farmers Market Meets Cool Hangout Spot
If you’re serious about experiencing Berlin’s local flavor (both literally and figuratively), Markthalle Neun in Kreuzberg is where you need to be. This isn’t your run-of-the-mill farmers market. It’s a sustainable dream with local farmers, organic produce, and a strong commitment to reducing food waste. Every Thursday, they host Street Food Thursday, where you can try everything from eco-friendly snacks to sustainably sourced global dishes.
Feeling adventurous? Hit up Kumpel & Keule, the in-house butcher, for ethically sourced meats, or check out the zero-waste grocery options. Trust us, it’s as local as it gets.
3. Tempelhofer Feld: Picnics, Planes, and Sustainability Goals
Ready for a local favorite that combines eco-conscious vibes and epic open spaces? Tempelhofer Feld, once an airport, has been repurposed into one of the largest urban parks in the world. Locals come here to picnic, kiteboard, and grow organic produce in community gardens. It’s the perfect example of Berlin’s commitment to sustainable, green spaces.
Pack your eco-friendly picnic gear, grab a bike, and enjoy this massive park. You’ll see families, friends, and kite flyers all embracing sustainable living—and you can too!
4. Teufelsberg: The Best View You Never Knew Existed
Teufelsberg, or Devil’s Mountain, offers a hike with a twist. Built on an artificial hill made from WWII rubble, this abandoned Cold War spy station is now an epic spot for views, street art, and a little eerie history. It’s a go-to for locals who want to get away from the bustle and embrace Berlin’s grittier side. Bonus points for sustainability: the site hasn’t been overdeveloped, meaning nature’s slowly reclaiming the area, making it an environmentally friendly way to enjoy Berlin’s past and present.
Want to keep your adventure sustainable? Hike or bike up the mountain instead of driving, and bring your own reusable water bottle (locals love them here!).
5. Prinzessinnengärten: Berlin’s Urban Eco-Oasis
This is where the true eco-warriors of Berlin hang out. Prinzessinnengärten is an urban garden where locals grow their own food, volunteer, and learn about sustainable farming practices. It’s an inspiring project that reflects Berlin’s progressive, eco-friendly spirit. You can grab a coffee at their organic café or join in on a gardening workshop. Don’t expect a tourist crowd here—this place is for people who care about community, sustainability, and the future of urban living.
Bonus: If you’re feeling like lending a hand, they’re always looking for volunteers to help with the garden. Nothing says “I’m a local” like getting your hands dirty in a sustainable way.
Ready to Travel Like a Local in Berlin?
Traveling like a local means not just seeing a city but truly experiencing it—and doing so in a way that respects the environment. From embracing sustainable dining options to exploring eco-friendly parks, Berlin offers a ton of ways to enjoy the city like a local while minimizing your carbon footprint. Plus, you get to feel like you’re in on a secret that the average tourist doesn’t even know exists.
Links
Cerca – Unlock more insider travel tips through the Cerca podcast.
Sustainable Berlin Tours – Eco-conscious tours that show the greener side of Berlin.
MisInfoNation: Germany – Neil and Andrés talk everything German with their Berliner friends Tom and Felix.
