Berlin Neighborhood Guide: Where To Stay or Live
Wondering where to stay in Berlin, for a visit or for the long-term? Or maybe you’re just curious about Berlin’s best neighborhoods.
I don’t blame you! Berlin is a sprawling city, with over 90 districts and what feels like a million different kiez (neighborhoods). Each one boasts its own distinct personality, catering to a kaleidoscope of lifestyles and interests.
Whether you’re a history buff seeking out remnants of the past, a young professional craving a trendy scene, or a family yearning for a green haven, Berlin has the perfect neighborhood waiting to be explored.
Berlin is still a vibrant melting pot of history, art, and counterculture. Choosing where to stay can significantly impact your trip. Let’s dive in and discover the one that resonates most with your travel desires!
Here’s a guide to some of Berlin’s most popular neighborhoods:
Berlin Neighborhood Guide
Are you looking for a relaxed atmosphere, a vibrant nightlife, or a historic experience? There can be a big difference even between a few blocks distance so check ahead.
Here are some general guidelines to get you started:
Best Berlin Neighborhoods
Mitte
Mitte is a great choice for first-time visitors or for professionals looking for a lively place to stay or live long-term. Think: central location with iconic landmarks, museums and great transportation options.
Mitte is where to head to see Berlin’s history. For example, the magnificent Brandenburg Gate, a symbol of reunification, stands next to the Reichstag Building.
It’s also a hotspot for museums and art galleries. Check out UNESCO-protected Museum Island for another slice of history or take a walk down Auguststr to check out KW or smaller contemporary art galleries.
However, Mitte can also be expensive, especially around popular areas like Hackescher Markt and Alexanderplatz.
Our Mitte Hotel Picks: The Weinmeister, Casa Camper, or Telegraphenamt
Prenzlauer Berg
For a slightly more chilled vibe, head north of Mitte to Prenzlauer Berg. Nicknamed “Parents-lauer Berg” by the locals, this is one of the most family-friendly areas in town. While once home to post-wall counter culture and squats, these days the pretty restored building house buzzing cafes, international restaurants, and chic boutiques.
Organic cafes serving delicious breakfasts and brunch options abound. Sample delectable treats at the farmer’s market at Kollwitzkiplatz Market, or savor international flavors at the numerous restaurants lining the streets.
On Sunday afternoons, head to the Mauerpark Flea Market: a treasure trove for vintage finds and local crafts. After perusing the stalls, grab yourself a beer and take in the famous karaoke show. And join in if you dare!
If you’ve got little ones in tow, Prenzlauer Berg is an especially great choice for a stay (or just for a day out and about). Loads of kid friendly cafes, ice creams shops as well as plenty of leafy green parks make this area perfect for families.
As you can guess, Prenzlauer Berg is still a popular choice with both young families and professionals, especially around Kollwitzplatz and Helmholtzplatz. However, it’s also one of the most expensive areas in Berlin, whether you want an overnight stay or to stay long-term.
Our Prenzlauer Berg Hotel Picks: Chateau Royal, Hotel Oderberger or Myer’s Hotel
Kreuzberg
If Prenzlauer Berg is a touch too fancy for you, head south of Mitte to the diversity of Kreuzberg. Kreuzberg was once the American sector in Berlin. That influence gave birth to the vibrant graffiti and Deutsch rap scenes that are still popular here today. Street art adorns the walls everywhere, and some of the city’s best-known street murals are here.
Kreuzberg is a great place to go for food and/or drinks, perhaps before continuing on your evening at one of Berlin’s many clubs. (I suggest wandering up Oranienstr and seeing where your evening takes you.) There’s also a big Turkish influence here, just like with neighboring Neukölln. (Think trendy cafes next to shisha bars.)
If you’re not into the nightlife scene, get a taste of the local culture by checking out the Turkish Market on Maybachufer (every Tuesday & Friday until 6pm).
Retaining a strong countercultural vibe, Kreuzberg is still more affordable than Mitte and quite popular amongst artists, students, and young professionals. Popular areas include Bergmannkiez and Schlesisches Tor.
(Tip: It’s pronounced kreutz-berg not krooz-berg.)
Our Kreuzberg Hotel Picks: Mondrian Suites or Orania Berlin
Friedrichshain
If Kreuzberg doesn’t have enough action for you, head over the bridge to Friedrichshain. This young, energetic district with overflowing with bars, famous clubs, and tons of East Berlin flavor.
Night owls take note! Friedrichshain is one of the most buzzing kiez’s in Berlin, home to everything from DIY punk-style bars to big techno clubs. Start your evening at Boxhagener Platz, known for its vibrant eateries and bars. Then take a walk around and let your spirit of adventure take over. Perhaps you can even explore the legendary Berghain nightclub, a techno haven renowned for its exclusivity and electrifying atmosphere.
It’s also typically slightly cheaper to stay or live here than in the west–although that might not be true around popular areas like Boxhagener Platz and the nightlife area of RAW-Gelände.
Our Friedrichshain Hotel Picks: Michelberger Hotel, Numa Boxer Berlin, or Goldmarie.
Neukölln
Neukölln is one of my favorite areas of the city but not everyone loves it as much as I do. In one word, it’s diverse: with large with Arab and Turkish communities as well as a ton of hip new cafes and restaurants. If you’re after a truly unique Berlin experience, this is the neighborhood for you! Weserstraße or Schillerkiez are some popular choices. (Stay off of Sonnenallee or Karl Marx Str if you’re staying around New Years!)
Our Neukölln Hotel Picks: Even though I love it, it’s not a great area for hotels so consider staying in an Airbnb here instead.
Schöneberg
Now we head back west toward Schöneberg: an LGBTQ+ friendly neighborhood with rich history and vibrant atmosphere. (It’s also the former home to David Bowie and Iggy Pop!) Take your pick from the bougie upscale shopping area near KaDeWe, go for the art nouveau architecture around Akazienstraße or the queer-friendly residential and bar area of Nollendorfplatz.
Today Schöneberg is most famous today as the LGBQT neighborhood, complete with rainbow lights over Nollendorfplatz U-bahn station. There are loads of stores, cafes, and bars (and even hotels!) catering to their primarily gay male customers.
If you happen to be in town for CSD, this is the epicenter! So grab yourself some sparkly clothes and a drink from one of the many street vendors and enjoy yourself.
Our Schöneberg Hotel Picks: Axel Hotel Berlin (gay-friendly & adults only) or 25 Hours Bikini Berlin
Charlottenburg-Wilmersdorf
If you’re after classic European vibes, designer shopping, or luxury hotels, Charlottenburg is your best bet. This district boasts beautiful architecture, upscale shops, elegant cafes, and beautiful parks. Here, Michelin-starred restaurants like Fischerei Scholz offer exquisite fine dining experiences.
Charlottenburg-Wilmersdorf is a popular choices for older visitors and residents as well as luxury seekers. The areas around Kurfürstendamm and Savignyplatz are especially popular.
Our Charlottenbug Hotel Picks: The Hoxton, Wilmina or Provacateur
The Up-and-Coming Neighborhoods
Moabit
Moabit is a central yet often overlooked neighborhood between Mitte and Charlottenburg. However, it’s got a few major advantages: Spree-side views, quiet neighborhoods with great transportation links and close proximity to hospitals, government buidlings and more. As a long-term choice, it’s growing in popularity with young professionals and families.
Tip: If you are arriving late or leaving early on a train from Hauptbahnhof, consider booking a night or two in Moabit.
Our Moabit Hotel Picks: Mercure MOA Hotel or Hotel Amano Grand Central
Wedding
It’s almost a joke to call Wedding up-and-coming these days as it has worn that label for at least a decade. This is another great choice if you’re after a uniquely Berlin experience. Wedding also boasts large Turkish and Arab communities mixed with a few pockets of cool new cafes and restaurants. It still tends to be a cheaper alternative to more popular neighborhoods, whether you’re looking for an overnight stay or a long-term living situation.
Our Wedding Hotel Picks: AC Hotel Berlin Humbolthain
Lichtenberg
Not to be overlooked, Lichtenberg is as Eastern district with Soviet-era architecture, plattenbau (prefab buildings) and quiet residential areas. It’s also home to Dong Xuan Center and a big Vietnamese community. It’s also more affordable than neighborhoods closer to the city center. I
Tip: If you’re taking a train to Poland or Prague, you might now catch it here instead of Hauptbahnhof or Gesundbrunnen. However, it’s also not that great with hotel selection so consider an Airbnb.
Other Factors to Consider
With some careful consideration, you can find the perfect neighborhood to stay in or to call home in Berlin. Here are a few other things to consider:
Budget: Cost Considerations
If you’re visiting or staying short-term, take into consideration your lifestyle preferences, whether you prefer a quiet residential area or a vibrant nightlife scene. Do your research as accommodation prices vary significantly between neighborhoods.
If you’re renting, determine your budget and choose a neighborhood that aligns with your financial situation. Of course, there will be deals in every neighborhood but they will typically have fierce competition.
- Mitte/Charlottenburg: €15-20/m² (rental)
- Prenzlauer Berg/Kreuzberg: €13-18/m²
- Friedrichshain/Neukölln: €12-16/m²
Transportation
Connections
If you’re staying in Berlin city center, you will probably have easy access to public transportation. However, a few blocks can make a big difference to your travel times. Check out travel times ahead of time for public transportation options, such as U-Bahn, S-Bahn, and bus lines and approximate travel times.
Bikes
Most neighborhoods are bike-friendly with dedicated lanes and bike-sharing services.
Special Needs
If you have special needs (stroller/wheelchair) be sure to check the stations nearest to you to ensure they have access. Some older stations do not have elevators.
Night Time Transportation
While public transportation runs 24 hours on the weekends, during the week the night time transit options are more limited. The Ubahn shuts down around 1am and reopens at 4am. There are night buses but they don’t run as often as they do during the day.
Amenities
What essentials do you need to make your trip or life easier? Check a map to make sure you have everything you need close at hand: supermarkets, pharmacies, and other essential amenities.
Safety
In general, Berlin is safe for both locals and tourists. But if you’re staying long-term or are considering a location well off the beaten path, do a little research into the safety of the area ahead of time.
For example, if you’re planning a lot of late-night activities make sure you’re located near transit (night buses run on a limited schedule) or plan to take an Uber home.
tl;dr: Choosing The Best Berlin Neighborhood for You
- First-Time Visitors to Berlin: Mitte, Charlottenburg
- For Families: Prenzlauer Berg, Charlottenburg
- For Young Professionals: Kreuzberg, Friedrichshain
- For The Budget-Conscious: Neukölln, Wedding
- For The Club Rats and Techno Enthusiasts: Friedrichshain, Kreuzberg
Best Berlin Neighborhoods | Final Thoughts
No matter your budget, needs, or travel style, Berlin offers a diverse range of neighborhoods to suit almost everyone. As always, do your research and check out a neighborhood in person in advance if you’re considering a move. Now, please go enjoy your big Berlin adventure!
Want more? Check out our guide to brutalism in Berlin or find out how to move to Berlin, Germany. For more ideas, check out our Berlin favorites map right here!
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