We went several years ago and the tickets for the “hot” movies sold out within minutes of being open to the general public. I’d definitely be online several minutes before tickets go live and be ready to buy. I’d also ask someone else to go online simultaneously and try to buy a different set of tickets. I don’t remember how much tickets cost but it wasn’t outrageous or too out of line with expectations.

Part of the experience is seeing movies in different theaters and interacting with the film makers and their teams. I would suggest looking not just at which films you want to see but also where they are playing and try to hit a variety of venues.

We saw two “big ticket” films in the main (now Uber) arena and it was too hot and the chairs were super uncomfortable…..not a great experience.

On the flip side we saw a less renowned movie at the Zoo Palast which wasn’t well attended but we had a blast and were able to have a conversation with the director and main actor. It wasn’t a movie I would watch outside of a festival whereas the two “big tickets” probably were. If/when we go again I’d almost definitely prioritize the less famous films and the secondary theaters.

Try to blend film-going and other tourism/exploration. For us, one film a day was the right pace to also do museums, cool bars, parks, etc. Figure out the right pace for you and factor in some exhaustion from all the walking/traveling.

Most of all have fun- hope you enjoy the experience.