How to Survive Getting Sick in Berlin: What Travelers Need to Know

Berlin is a city of history, culture, and endless exploration — but getting sick while traveling can put a damper on your plans. Whether you’re dealing with a cold, food poisoning, or something more serious, knowing what to do if you’re sick in Berlin will make things easier.

This guide will walk you through finding medical care, accessing pharmacies, and handling emergencies so you can get back to enjoying the city’s vibrant energy as soon as possible.

Navigating Berlin’s Healthcare System

Germany has an excellent healthcare system, and Berlin offers both public and private medical services. Here’s what you need to know:

• Public Hospitals: Equipped with top-tier facilities, but wait times for non-urgent cases can be long.
• Private Clinics: Faster service, often with English-speaking staff, but pricier if you don’t have private insurance.

Our Expert Tip: Use the Air Doctor app to find English-speaking doctors in Berlin without the hassle.

Essential Emergency Numbers in Berlin

In case of an emergency, keep these numbers handy:

• 112 – General emergency number for ambulances and life-threatening situations.
• 116 117 – Non-emergency medical assistance, available 24/7.
• +49 30 4593 00 – Charité – Universitätsmedizin Berlin, one of Germany’s leading hospitals.

Our Expert Tip: If you’re unsure whether your situation is an emergency, call 116 117 for advice before heading to a hospital.

Communicating with Medical Professionals

Many Berlin doctors and pharmacists speak English, but it helps to know a few phrases just in case:

• “I need to see a doctor.” – Ich muss einen Arzt sehen.
• “Where is the nearest pharmacy?” – Wo ist die nächste Apotheke?
• “I have an allergy to…” – Ich bin allergisch gegen…

Our Expert Tip: Google Translate or a translation app can help if language becomes a barrier.

Where to Find Pharmacies in Berlin

Pharmacies (Apotheken) in Berlin are easy to spot thanks to their red “A” logo. Here’s what you need to know:

• Standard Hours: Typically open from 9 AM to 6:30 PM on weekdays, with shorter Saturday hours.
• 24-Hour Pharmacies: Some pharmacies operate overnight—check the official pharmacy locator website or ask a local for the nearest Notdienst-Apotheke (emergency pharmacy).

Our Expert Tip: Pharmacies in train stations like Berlin Hauptbahnhof (Main Station) and Alexanderplatz often have extended hours.

Staying Healthy While Exploring Berlin

Berlin’s weather, food, and long walking distances can take a toll on your body. Here’s how to stay well:

• Dress for the Season: Winters are cold, summers can be surprisingly hot—pack accordingly.
• Watch What You Eat: Berlin has fantastic street food (like currywurst and döner), but make sure it’s from a reputable spot.
• Stay Hydrated: Tap water is safe to drink, so carry a reusable bottle.

Our Expert Tip: If you feel unwell after eating, activated charcoal tablets from a pharmacy can help with mild food-related issues.

Medical Help for Pre-Existing Conditions

If you have a chronic condition or need regular medication while in Berlin:

• Bring Your Prescriptions: Have them in their original packaging along with a doctor’s note.
• Find a Specialist: Charité and Vivantes hospitals have international patient departments.

Our Expert Tip: If you run out of medication, visit a Hausarzt (general practitioner) to get a local prescription.

Useful Apps for Medical Assistance

A few apps can make accessing healthcare in Berlin much easier:

• Air Doctor – Helps you find English-speaking doctors.
• Google Maps – Search for nearby Apotheken (pharmacies) and medical centers.

Our Expert Tip: Test these apps before you travel so you’re comfortable using them in case of an emergency.

Why Travel Insurance is a Must in Berlin

Germany’s healthcare system is excellent – but it’s not always cheap. Here’s why insurance is essential:

• Emergency Care: Without insurance, a visit to the hospital can be costly.
• Private Clinic Coverage: Some insurance plans only cover public hospitals, so check in advance.

Our Expert Tip: If you’re a European Union (EU) citizen, bring your EHIC card to access public healthcare at reduced rates.

Embassy Support for Travelers in Berlin

Your country’s embassy can help if you need assistance with medical care, lost prescriptions, or hospital visits.

Our Expert Tip: Save your embassy’s contact details before your trip so they’re easy to find in case of an emergency.

What to Do If You Get Sick in Berlin

Before you go, here’s a quick recap.

1. Visit a Pharmacy (Apotheke) for minor health concerns.
2. Use apps like Air Doctor or Doctolib to find an English-speaking doctor.
3. Call 112 for emergencies or visit Charité Hospital for top-tier care.
4. Check your travel insurance to ensure you’re covered.
5. Contact your embassy if you need additional assistance.

By planning ahead, you’ll be able to handle any health concerns quickly and continue exploring everything Berlin has to offer!

About the Air Doctor App

With the Air Doctor app in your pocket, you can access medical advice, get prescriptions, and receive expert medical guidance while you’re in Berlin (and anywhere else you travel).

Air Doctor offers a wide range of benefits, including:

• A global network of over 20,000 multi-lingual doctors and specialists
• Choice of clinic, at-home (hotel), and video consultations
• Active in 85 countries
• 24/7 multi-lingual support
• Transparent pricing and reviews
• Most common medical specialties, including pediatricians

If you’re looking for reliable, accessible, and global medical assistance, Air Doctor is the perfect choice for you. Download the app before your next trip to ensure peace of mind and access to quality healthcare, wherever your travels take you.