In a life-threatening emergency in Berlin, call 112 (fire brigade and ambulance, free from any phone). For an urgent but non-life-threatening problem outside practice hours, call 116117, the on-call doctor service, open day and night. Pharmacies ("Apotheke") are marked by a large red "A", and one is always on duty. This guide explains whom to call, how to get treated and how to pay. Information checked in October 2026; this is not medical advice.
Whom to call
| Situation | Number |
|---|---|
| Life-threatening emergency: chest pain, breathing difficulty, heavy bleeding, loss of consciousness | 112 |
| Urgent problem, practices closed (night, weekend) | 116117 |
| Police | 110 |
| On-duty pharmacy | 0800 00 22 833 (landline) or 22 833 (mobile) |
112 often understands English; 116117 is mostly in German, so ask a German speaker for help if needed. For the police, dial 110; see also our advice on scams to avoid in Berlin.
Doctor and hospital emergency rooms
- General practitioner ("Hausarzt"): for a cold or a minor injury, phone a practice; as a tourist you may not get an immediate appointment.
- Hospital emergency room ("Notaufnahme" or "Rettungsstelle"): for serious cases, including at the large Charité hospital; the wait can be long if the case is not serious.
- Dentist: ask your hotel or your insurer for an on-call address.
Pharmacy
An on-duty pharmacy ("Notdienst") covers nights, Sundays and public holidays; the list is posted on the door of every closed pharmacy. Some medicines sold over the counter in your country need a prescription in Germany: bring yours, with the name of the active substance.
Insurance and payment
- European Union citizens: the European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) covers necessary care from doctors who accept public insurance; check when booking.
- Outside the European Union: take out travel insurance with repatriation; you will often pay up front and be reimbursed on invoice.
- Keep your papers: keep the prescription, invoice and medical report.
Good to know
Vaccinations and personal medicines are for your doctor to advise before departure. For water, see tap water; for the overall budget, the budget for Berlin; for a first stay, tips for a first trip.
