Berlin is a paradise for cyclists. There are countless kilometres of bike lanes, and the city’s broad streets usually offer plenty of room next to motorists, even if the cobblestones can get bumpy and you have to watch out for tram tracks.

The German national railway, Deutsche Bahn, places scores of sturdy rental bikes around town each spring, which can be activated by mobile phone. You need to sign up first at www.callabike.de before you can ride away at your leisure. There isn’t a helmet law in Germany at present, however, some courts have decided cyclists are partly to blame when injured in street traffic while not wearing one, which can influence legal claims for compensation. Berlin has a growing fleet of velotaxis (bicycle rickshaws), which offer a green alternative to taking cabs.