What to Do if You Get Sick in Berlin

Berlin is bold, creative, and effortlessly cool — from street art and schnitzel to historic landmarks and buzzing nightlife. But even in a city this dynamic, travel plans can hit a bump. Maybe it’s a surprise fever, a stomach bug, or just not feeling quite right.

Getting sick in Berlin isn’t fun — but it doesn’t have to ruin your trip. Whether it’s finding an English-speaking doctor, getting help in an emergency, or knowing what to do if your stomach acts up after currywurst, this guide has you covered.

Let’s walk through everything you need to know — in simple, clear terms — so you can feel better and get back to enjoying Berlin, fast.

Understanding Berlin’s Healthcare System

Germany is known for having one of the best healthcare systems in the world. And Berlin — as the country’s capital — is packed with high-quality clinics, hospitals, and pharmacies.

Public vs. Private Healthcare

• Public healthcare is excellent but may not be ideal for short-term visitors. If you’re from the EU and have an EHIC or GHIC card, you can use public services at reduced costs.
• Private healthcare is faster, easier to navigate, and more tourist-friendly. You’ll usually need to pay upfront, but if you’ve got travel insurance, you can get reimbursed.

Emergency Medical Care in Berlin

If something serious happens, don’t panic — help is available and fast.

Emergency Numbers in Germany

• 112 – All emergencies (ambulance, fire, police)
• 116 117 – Non-urgent medical help (German-speaking line)
• 110 – Police only

Calling an Ambulance in Berlin

• Dial 112
• Say: “Ich brauche einen Krankenwagen” (I need an ambulance)
• Give your address or location clearly — use Google Maps if needed
• Ask: “Sprechen Sie Englisch?” (Do you speak English?)

Important: For non-life-threatening situations, it’s usually faster to visit a private clinic or use an online consultation.

Should I Go to a Hospital or Clinic?

• Hospital (Krankenhaus/Notaufnahme) – for emergencies or very serious symptoms (like chest pain, head injuries, or breathing problems)
• Private clinic or GP – for common issues like colds, food poisoning, UTIs, allergies, or minor injuries

Pharmacies & Medication in Berlin

Pharmacies (Apotheke) are easy to find — look for the big red “A” sign. Berlin has hundreds, and many are open late or on weekends.

What You Can Get at a Pharmacy

• Painkillers and fever meds
• Cold, flu, or allergy relief
• Stomach and digestive remedies
• Creams for rashes or bites
• First-aid supplies
• Basic antibiotics (with a doctor’s note)

Pharmacists are knowledgeable and many speak English — especially in central Berlin.

Finding a 24-Hour Pharmacy

Need medication late at night? Berlin always has at least one emergency pharmacy (Notdienst Apotheke) open nearby.

Here’s how to find it:

• Google “24h pharmacy Berlin” or “Apotheken Notdienst”
• Ask your hotel staff or Airbnb host
• Visit any pharmacy — they’ll have a sign listing the closest open one

Using Travel Insurance in Berlin

If you’ve got travel insurance — great! That means you can get quality care without worrying about the bill.

What’s Usually Covered

• Private doctor appointments
• Hospital or emergency care
• Doctor’s notes and medications
• Ambulance transport
• Diagnostic tests or scans

What You’ll Need for a Claim

• A doctor’s note or diagnosis
• Receipts for appointments, prescriptions, or hospital stays
• Your insurance provider’s info
• Proof of travel (boarding pass, booking confirmation)

Pro tip: Snap clear photos of every document and store them in your email or cloud.

Language Barriers

Berlin is an international city, but not all healthcare professionals speak English — especially in emergency rooms or public clinics.

Useful German Medical Phrases

• “Mir ist schlecht.” – I feel sick
• “Ich habe Fieber.” – I have a fever
• “Ich brauche einen Arzt.” – I need a doctor
• “Ich bin allergisch gegen…” – I’m allergic to…
• “Sprechen Sie Englisch?” – Do you speak English?

How to Avoid Getting Sick in Berlin

A few small steps can help you stay healthy on the go.

Common Travel Ailments in Berlin

• Stomach issues from heavy or new foods
• Cold or flu symptoms (especially in winter or after flights)
• Allergies (pollen is common in spring)
• Jet lag or fatigue
• Minor injuries (slipping on icy sidewalks in winter is common!)

Is Tap Water Safe in Berlin?

Yes! Tap water is clean and totally safe to drink in Berlin. Bring a reusable bottle and stay hydrated — especially in the summer.

Food & Hygiene Tips

• Eat at restaurants with good reviews and high turnover
• Wash fruit and veg from markets
• Carry hand sanitizer — especially on public transport
• Be cautious with new foods if you have a sensitive stomach

Health Tips for Pregnant Travelers & Those With Pre-Existing Conditions

Traveling while pregnant or managing a condition? Berlin is very healthcare-accessible, but it pays to plan ahead.

Before You Go

• Bring your medications (in original packaging)
• Carry a doctor’s summary (in English and German, if possible)
• Research the nearest private clinic or hospital
• Avoid standing for long periods during walking tours or at museums

Finding an English-Speaking Doctor in Berlin

Being sick in Berlin is hard. Trying to figure out where to go, who speaks your language, and how to book? Even harder.

With Air Doctor, you can:

• Find verified doctors who speak your language
• Book instantly online
• Choose video or in-person consults
• Get proper receipts for your insurance
• Avoid language mix-ups and long waits

Embassy Support

Need extra help? Your embassy or consulate can:

• Recommend nearby doctors
• Help replace lost meds or documents
• Contact your insurer or family
• Assist if you’re hospitalized

Save your embassy’s number just in case — it’s better to have it and not need it.

Recap: What to Do if You Get Sick in Berlin

Before you go, here’s a quick recap on what to do if you get sick in Berlin!

• Dial 112 for emergencies
• Use a private clinic for fast, English-speaking care
• Visit a pharmacy for minor health issues
• Keep receipts and reports for your insurance claim
• Know a few basic phrases, or skip the stress by using Air Doctor
• Stay hydrated, wash your hands, and take breaks
• Plan ahead if you’re pregnant or managing a condition
• Contact your embassy for extra support when needed

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

FAQs