Tell me more ×
Travel Stack Exchange is a question and answer site for road warriors and seasoned travelers. It's 100% free, no registration required.
up vote 6 down vote favorite

I will be spending about 3 months (at least) in Berlin, Germany, primarly to look for some business oportunities or maybe a job. I am aware of the nearly perfect transportation services Berlin offers (S-bahn, U-bahn and buses). I am considering bringing my car with me, however it will cost me about 5 times the money for the trip than what I would spend for an airplane ticket (about 200 for airplane, about 1000-1200 for car trip).

Has anyone experience with living in Berlin? Given the fact that I don't yet know exactly where I will be staying, and where I will be needing to be going on a daily basis for my work, how much benefit would I gain from having a car there? Or maybe it's not worth it?

P.S. the car is new and complies with the latest European emission standards.

share|improve this question
1  
This is an immigration, not a travel question, imo. – victoriah Jan 8 '12 at 21:26
Not sure whether this is immigration. Because a Schengen visa allows staying up to 90 days, it might be useful for travellers too. – Ankur Banerjee♦ Jan 8 '12 at 22:03
I don't imagine many people from outside the EU would be driving that far (imo). In any case usage of a car on a daily basis from an everyday living perspective is not something that's a concern of travellers. – victoriah Jan 8 '12 at 22:36
1  
Hmm for me it's hard to call. It feels like an immigration question in spirit but I myself would expect car ownership questions totally relevant for long trips to the US, Canada, or Australia even though I would never consider buying or importing a car for a trip to Europe. – hippietrail Jan 9 '12 at 5:23
Thanks guys. Looks like I am leaving my car at home for starters :) – Spiros Jan 24 '12 at 9:15
show 1 more comment

2 Answers

up vote 16 down vote accepted

Having a car in Berlin is more hassle than a convenience, just because of the parking situation, and the money you spend on parking meters. Driving in Berlin is also not exactly fun with the traffic congestion, or much faster than the bus or subway either. Leave your car at home, save the money and then decide after 3 months if you really need a car in berlin.

share|improve this answer
up vote 8 down vote

Leave the car at home.

As you say, Berlin has "nearly perfect" public transportation coverage. If you find that you want a car for an errand or for a road trip, rent one. In addition to traditional car rental businesses, there are many short-term "car sharing" programs (similar to Zipcar in the US). Taking a taxi is another option.

share|improve this answer

Your Answer

 
discard

By posting your answer, you agree to the privacy policy and terms of service.

Not the answer you're looking for? Browse other questions tagged or ask your own question.