Planning a trip and wondering where to stay in Berlin? You’re in the right spot!
Planning a last minute trip to Berlin? 🇩🇪
Here are my favourite places to stay & things to do in German capital.
🛌 Places to Stay:
1. Hotel Adlon Kempinski (luxury hotel where all the celebs are staying too, right by the Brandenburg Gate)
2. NH Collection Mitte (very good hotel with an even better location in the heart of Berlin)
3. H4 Hotel Alexanderplatz (affordable hotel near Alexanderplatz and my favourite area, Prenzlauer Berg)
🎟️ Top Activities & Tours:
1. Fast-track ticket to the TV Tower (skip the slow-moving queue)
2. Go on Boat Tour on the River Spree (lovely way to see a lot of sights)
3. Take a Third Reich and Cold War Walking Tour
4. Take a guided tour to the Sachsenhausen Concentration Camp Memorial
🚇 Get The Berlin WelcomeCard for easy access to public transport (it's also valid on the Airport Express train) & huge discounts on a lot of activities in Berlin.
I used to live in Berlin and go back many times a year, so I know quite a few good hotels, which I’ll share below.
We’re diving into six cool Berlin neighborhoods, all with their own unique vibe. Plus, you’ll find links for booking hotels that suit all kinds of budgets, ensuring you find a spot right for you.
Where to stay in Berlin? Let’s get started.
Best areas to stay in Berlin
If you’re in a rush or just want a quick rundown, here it is:
- Mitte – best area to stay for sightseeing & first-time travellers ⭐️
- Prenzlauer Berg – best area to stay for true Berliner vibes 😍
- Charlottenburg – best area to stay for families with children 👨👩👧👦
- Kreuzberg – best area to stay for hipsters 👨🏻
- Friedrichshain – best area to stay for nightlife 💃🏽
- Tiergarten – central area with a massive park & nice hotels
Click the links above to see the best places to stay in the area.
The guide continues below, where I’ll talk you through the best areas in Berlin.
I’ve also made a video where I’m showing some of my favourite areas to stay in Berlin:
1. Mitte – best area to stay for sightseeing & first-time travellers ⭐️
Mitte in Berlin stands out as a central district, rich in history and culture. It’s the heart of the city, where travelers can delve into Berlin’s past and present.
Key attractions include the historically significant Alexanderplatz, the Brandenburg Gate, the Reichstag Building, Museum Island, and the iconic Checkpoint Charlie.
Mitte’s location ensures easy access to public transport, making it convenient to explore the rest of Berlin.
See the best hotels in Mitte here.
The area is known for its diverse art scene, with numerous galleries and vibrant street art.
Culinary enthusiasts will appreciate Mitte’s wide range of international dining options.
It’s also ideal for those who prefer walking, offering pedestrian-friendly streets and engaging walking tours.
Overall, Mitte is an excellent choice for first-time visitors, families, or anyone wanting to be close to Berlin’s main attractions.
It offers a blend of historical insights, artistic charm, global cuisine, and lively nightlife, providing a comprehensive Berlin experience.
No matter where you stay in Mitte, you will never be far from the S-Bahn, U-Bahn, or Tram, so you can quickly get around the rest of the city, and you will also be able to get from Berlin Airport to your hotel in less than 1 hour.
Stay in Mitte if you are:
- Travelling to Berlin for the first time
- Travelling to Berlin with children
- Would like to stay close to the best things to do in Berlin
Places to stay in Mitte
Berlin is a unique city, but many new things have been built since the fall of the wall, and especially in Mitte, a lot has happened, which is good for us when we have to find a good hotel in Mitte.
There are many to choose from in several price ranges 😎
Best luxury hotel in Mitte: Regent Berlin
Situated in the heart of Berlin’s Mitte district, the Regent Berlin offers a luxurious, central hub for your stay in Germany’s dynamic capital.
Each elegantly appointed room pairs comfort with class, boasting plush furnishings, serene colour palettes, and sweeping city views that underscore its prime location.
The hotel’s location in Mitte situates guests steps away from notable historical sites such as the Brandenburg Gate and Checkpoint Charlie, while also offering a wealth of culinary and cultural experiences right on its doorstep.
For the discerning traveller, history buff, culinary connoisseur, or art enthusiast, the Regent Berlin stands as an optimal choice.
See more photos and book online.
The next place to stay in Mitte is the best of both worlds: the location is excellent, the hotel is luxurious, and the rates are affordable.
The NH Collection Hotel is a gem, right next to Friedrichstrasse station, making it super easy to explore every cool spot in the city.
My girlfriend stayed here on a previous trip and had many good things to say. She loved the top-notch service, the stylish and comfy vibe, and all the extra perks that made her stay memorable.
And the rooms? They’re the perfect mix of modern style and comfort, ideal for chilling out after a day of sightseeing.
So, if you’re looking for a comfy, and convenient place to stay in Berlin, the NH Collection Hotel in Mitte is definitely worth checking out.
See more photos and book here.
Best mid-range hotel in Mitte: H4 Hotel Alexanderplatz
Having enjoyed staying here, I can tell you that this hotel checks all the boxes. The rooms? Comfortable and stylish in a way that speaks to modern simplicity.
It’s a good place to stay if you want to stay close to many of Berlin’s main attractions.
Your sleep quality here is a priority, and it shows in the soothing ambience of each room.
Now, let’s talk about location. The H4 is next to Alexanderplatz, placing you within arm’s reach of Berlin’s famous landmarks.
And the cherry on top? The H4 Hotel Alexanderplatz does all this without burning a hole in your pocket.
It’s a place that melds comfort, location, and affordability seamlessly.
See more photos and book here.
Best budget hotel in Mitte: Best Western am Spittelmarkt Berlin
This hotel is right by the U-Bahn station Spittelmarkt
Rooms at the Best Western are thoughtfully designed, clean, and equipped with all the essential amenities.
Each morning, you can start your day with their breakfast buffet, where a generous spread of options is provided to cater to various tastes.
If you’re looking for a cheap place to stay in Berlin Mitte, this is an excellent choice that won’t break the bank.
See more photos and book here.
2. Prenzlauer Berg – best area to stay for true Berliner vibes 😍
Prenzlauer Berg is close to my heart, as this is where I stayed when I lived in Berlin.
After the fall of the Berlin wall, Prenzlauer Berg was where young artists moved to, as no one else wanted to live in the buildings and therefore, the area quickly developed into a haven for the cool and trendy Berliners.
However, the 90s are long gone, and the trendy artists have become parents, so Prenzlauer Berg is known to be the most child-friendly area of Berlin and an extremely desirable area to stay in.
See the best hotels in Prenzlauer Berg here.
Although Prenzlauer Berg is now gradually mentioned in all guidebooks to Berlin and is no longer the city’s hippest area, I think there is something liberating about strolling around streets such as Kastanienallee, Oderberger Strasse and further north on Lychener Strasse around Helmholtzplatz.
That’s Berlin for me – a good mix of small indie shops, kebab shops, fancy cafes and dive bars with cheap beer.
A wonderful mix of everything that makes Berlin one of Europe’s most incredible cities!
If you’re in Berlin on Sunday, don’t forget to drop by Mauerpark, where there is a huge flea market with a cosy atmosphere every Sunday.
Close to Mauerpark, you can visit Gedenkstätte Berliner Mauer, one of the few places where a part of the Berlin Wall still stands at Bernauer Strasse.
Stay in Prenzlauer Berg if you:
- Love good food and coffee
- Want to experience a more authentic side of Berlin than Mitte
- Are okay with having to use Berlin’s public transport to get to the most famous sights
I love Prenzlauer Berg and can’t recommend the area enough! I think it’s the best place to stay in Berlin for a good, local vibe.
Places to stay in Prenzlauer Berg
When you stay in Prenzlauer Berg, there are slightly fewer hotels to choose from, and, contrary to Mitte, it is more local, smaller hotels than the big chains.
Of course, it also has its charm, but I still have a classic on the list below – because it has an excellent price and is close to the s-Bahn and tram.
Best luxury hotel: Myer’s Hotel Berlin
Located in the heart of Prenzlauer Berg, Myer’s Hotel offers a captivating blend of historic charm and modern convenience.
The hotel is in a beautifully restored 19th-century building, providing chic, well-appointed rooms adorned with high ceilings, stucco detailing, and antique touches.
You can enjoy a respite in the tranquil courtyard garden or indulge in a locally-sourced breakfast in the unique vaulted cellar.
Located amid a bustling art scene, myriad dining options, and the renowned Mauerpark flea market, Myer’s Hotel is a genuine Berlin experience.
See more photos and book here.
Best mid-range hotel: Holiday Inn Berlin Prenzlauer Berg
With its strategic location in Prenzlauer Berg, the Holiday Inn Berlin embodies convenience and an authentic local feel.
The hotel sits minutes away from the Prenzlauer Allee S-bahn station and tram to Alexanderplatz, putting the vibrancy of the rest of Berlin at your fingertips.
Despite being in a low-key, less touristy area, guests are spoilt for choice with many excellent nearby dining options.
I lived very close to this hotel on Stargarder Strasse, and I highly recommend checking out the neighbouring streets around Helmholtzplatz.
See more photos and book here.
Best budget hotel: Hotel Kastanienhof
This splendid boutique hotel, within the walls of a refurbished 19th-century edifice, exudes an irresistible blend of historic charm and modern comfort.
Each room, uniquely designed, is kitted out with all the contemporary conveniences, ensuring a restful stay amid the timeless elegance.
At your doorstep lies the bustling Kastanienallee, a hotspot of trendy cafes and shops begging for exploration.
A truly unique Berliner hotel in Prenzlauer Berg.
See more photos and book here.
3. Charlottenburg – best area to stay for families with children 👨👩👧👦
For the first time, we’ll talk about an area in the former West Berlin, Charlottenburg.
In Charlottenburg, we find places such as the Kurfürstendamm shopping street, KaDeWe, Berlin Zoo and Schloss Charlottenburg.
Charlottenburg is traditionally a more decadent and nicer area than, for example, Prenzlauer Berg, which, as mentioned, was part of poor East Berlin.
The area is also one of the parts of Berlin that was relatively spared during World War II, so you can still find quite a few older, beautiful buildings from before the war.
See the best hotels in Charlottenburg here.
There is a different atmosphere in Charlottenburg and, in particular, around the Kurfürstendamm than in the rest of Berlin. Here, the city is more reminiscent of other big European cities than in the different areas.
The slightly cleaner area is thus the perfect area for those of you travelling to Berlin with children.
Stay in Charlottenburg if you:
- Want to shop in the high-street shops in Berlin
- Want to stay in nice, modern hotels
- Want to experience the “nice part” of Berlin
- Are going to a concert or football at the Olympiastadion (which is located further west)
Places to stay in Charlottenburg
Even before the fall of the Berlin Wall, Charlottenburg was an area where tourists from all over the world stayed. Therefore, you must be careful when you book the hotel, as there are a few very old hotels.
If you choose one of the three on the list below, you can look forward to some excellent accommodation.
It should also be said that Charlottenburg is generally a more expensive area than the others I mention in the guide here. So if you are looking for a cheap hotel in Berlin, you will get more for your money in Mitte or Prenzlauer Berg.
Best luxury hotel: Waldorf Astoria Berlin
You’ll find the seriously slick Waldorf Astoria in the heart of Berlin’s Charlottenburg district.
This hotel is pure luxury, serving a wicked combination of timeless class and ultra-modern comfort.
If you’ve seen The Real Housewives of Beverly Hills, this is the place the ladies are staying on their trip to Berlin 😀
Housed in an epic skyscraper, every room here rocks killer city views, super-stylish design, and all the high-tech gear you need.
- Plush furnishings? Check.
- Massive marble bathrooms? You got it.
- All the tech wizardry to keep you connected? Absolutely.
So if you’re looking for the most luxurious place to stay in Berlin, this is the hotel to book.
See more photos and book here.
Best mid-range hotel (also quite luxurious): Hotel Zoo Berlin
This hotel has 144 rooms and suites and is the epitome of cool luxury.
All the rooms boast impressive features, like floor-to-ceiling windows and open-plan layouts. Some rooms even come with private terraces for some serious chill-out sessions.
The design is a nod to the building’s glamorous past, with high ceilings, restored brickwork, and a mixture of contemporary and vintage furnishings.
Head up to the hotel’s Rooftop Bar for a panoramic view of Kurfürstendamm, Berlin’s most famous shopping boulevard. With a handcrafted cocktail in hand, you’ll get a glimpse of Berlin which many only dream of.
Set in a prime location, you’re just a stone’s throw away from famous attractions like the Berlin Zoo and Kaiser Wilhelm Memorial Church.
Best budget hotel: Leonardo Hotel Berlin Kurfürstendamm
Leonardo Hotel Berlin Kurfürstendamm offers a brilliant option for the savvy traveller.
This hotel ticks all the right boxes with a top-notch location, comfortable accommodations, and a price that won’t break the bank.
The Leonardo houses 136 rooms; each decked with modern furnishings, flat-screen TVs and free Wi-Fi to keep you connected.
The rooms are streamlined and efficient, making the most of every inch of space, and the comfy beds make for a great night’s sleep after a day of exploring the city.
A great budget-option for those wanting to stay in the part of Berlin.
See more photos and book here.
4. Kreuzberg – best area to stay for hipsters 👨🏻
When I lived in Berlin, I worked in Kreuzberg, which was an absolute pleasure.
However, my body weight also increased as the months went by, which I, among other things, attribute to the fantastic döner kebabs you can get for a few euros on every street corner in Kreuzberg.
Kreuzberg is known for being a multicultural area where in particular, many people with Turkish roots live.
At the same time, Kreuzberg has been notoriously a cheap area to stay in, contributing to many artists and creatives moving here (as was the case with Prenzlauer Berg in the 90s).
That’s why Kreuzberg (and the area south of it, Neukölln) is perhaps one of the most hipster areas in the world. If you’ve been to Williamsburg in New York, you know how high up on the hipster scale we are 😀
So if you’re young, want to drink IPAs at the trendiest bars and go to underground nightclubs you’ve dusted off on Instagram, then Kreuzberg is the area for you.
See the best hotels in Kreuzberg here.
I wouldn’t recommend booking a hotel in Kreuzberg if you travel with children to Berlin.
Not because it is a dangerous area, but simply because there are better alternatives and if you have to say something negative, the area around Kottbusser Tor might seem a little unsafe in the late hours of the night (but if you’re in Berlin with children you probably wouldn’t be around at that time of night) 😀
Furthermore, Kreuzberg is a large area, and it borders, among other things, up to Checkpoint Charlie to the north, but otherwise, there aren’t many prominent top attractions or sights in the area. Kreuzberg is more of a vibe.
I recommend strolling along the Maybachufer, walking in Görlitzer Park and people-watching and enjoying the many unique streets and the cheap restaurants.
One of my favourite restaurants in Berlin is technically in Kreuzberg, although it’s close to Mitte and Potsdamer Platz: Mabuhay is a tiny little Indonesian restaurant you must know to pass by.
Stay in Kreuzberg if you:
- Are a bit of a hipster 😎
- Love doner kebab
- Want to experience a local Berlin atmosphere with people from all corners of the world
Places to stay in Kreuzberg
As mentioned, Kreuzberg is a large area, but I have chosen a few hotels that are located in the part of the area that I think is the most exciting and coolest 😉
Here you will never be far from a good bar or a U-Bahn station.
Best luxury hotel: Orania.Berlin
This boutique hotel, housed in a painstakingly restored art nouveau building dating back to 1913, beautifully combines historical charm with modern elegance.
Orania.Berlin offers 41 rooms and suites, each with warm, understated luxury. High ceilings, oak parquet floors, and bespoke furnishings give each room a unique character.
Tech-friendly touches like soundproof windows, air conditioning, and high-speed internet ensure a comfortable, peaceful stay.
There’s not much more to say; if you’re looking for one of the best hotels in Kreuzberg, this is it.
See more photos and book here.
Best mid-range hotel: Hotel Vier Jahreszeiten Berlin City
Having had the pleasure of staying at the Hotel Vier Jahreszeiten Berlin City myself (although it’s a couple of years ago now, I think it was in 2018), I can personally attest to its exceptional quality and commitment to guest satisfaction.
The location in Kreuzberg couldn’t be better as you’re close to numerous U-bahn stations, bars and restaurants.
The rooms are beautifully designed, featuring modern amenities that blend seamlessly with the chic decor.
Each room is fitted with a flat-screen TV, Wi-Fi, and a well-stocked minibar.
So if you’re looking for a good, but not too expensive, hotel in Kreuzberg, this is a good bet.
See more photos and book here.
Best budget hotel: Hotel Prens Berlin
Hotel Prens Berlin offers affordable, comfortable accommodations in the heart of Kreuzberg.
Rooms are clean and well-equipped with essentials like a flat-screen TV, Wi-Fi, and en-suite bathrooms.
The hotel is known for its friendly staff and provides a satisfying breakfast daily.
If you’re seeking budget-friendly, no-frills accommodation in Kreuzberg, Hotel Prens Berlin fits the bill.
See more photos and book here.
5. Friedrichshain – best area to stay for nightlife 💃🏽
The last good area to stay in on your trip to Berlin is Friedrichshain. An area which, in addition to being difficult to spell, is also packed with good restaurants, cafes and bars.
Where Kreuzberg lies to the west of the Spree (the river that divides Berlin), we find Friedrichshain on the eastern part, and thus we are back in the former East Berlin.
You can still feel that when you walk around the cosy, famous streets around Simon-Dach-Strasse and Grünberger Strasse.
In Friedrichshain, we also find the RAW-Gelände right next to the Warschauer Strasse Bahnhof, a vast outdoor and indoor area with nightclubs.
Undoubtedly a place you must visit if you travel to Berlin to experience the city’s world-famous nightlife.
See the best hotels in Friedrichshain here.
It is also in Friedrichshain that we find the East Side Gallery, which should be on everyone’s bucket list when visiting Berlin.
In general, Friedrichshain is an area that is very similar to Kreuzberg but without an equally sizeable multicultural mix. It was only after the wall’s fall that it was opened up to people from other parts of the world.
I have had one of the best Vietnamese meals of my life here in the area at New Day Vietnam Heritage Food. I know – the name is not the best, but the food indeed was 😀
Stay in Friedrichshain if you:
- Would like to go clubbing (for example, you can try to get into the world-famous Berghain)
- Want to experience an area of old East Berlin that is still a bit raw and unpolished
- Are going to a concert at the Mercedes Benz Arena
Places to stay in Friedrichshain
Friedrichshain is an area with quite a few hostels and hotels on the cheaper end, so if you’re travelling to Berlin on a budget, it might be an excellent place to look.
However, let me introduce you to three hotels in different price ranges.
Best luxury hotel: Hotel Indigo Berlin East Side Gallery
This is the spot if you’re looking for the best place to stay in Friedrichshain near the East Side Gallery.
Hotel Indigo offers an ideal blend of style, comfort, and convenience.
The rooms feature a modern design, fitted with amenities such as flat-screen TVs and Wi-Fi for guests’ convenience.
This hotel’s prime location next to the East Side Gallery, Berlin’s longest piece of the Berlin Wall, provides easy access to a significant historical site.
It’s also easy to get to Mitte and Kreuzberg (the area on the other side of the river Spree) by public transport as both S and U Bahn stations are nearby.
Overall, the Hotel Indigo Berlin East Side Gallery is a top-notch choice for accommodation in Friedrichshain.
See more photos and book here.
Best mid-range hotel: Nhow Berlin
nhow Berlin is a distinctive and vibrant hotel in Friedrichshain.
The hotel’s design reflects its neighbourhood, blending music, art, and architecture uniquely and engagingly.
The rooms at nhow Berlin are beautifully designed with a contemporary aesthetic, offering stunning views of the Spree River. Each room has modern amenities like flat-screen TVs, Wi-Fi, and a minibar.
In a unique twist befitting the hotel’s focus on music and sound, guests can even request guitars and keyboards to be delivered to their rooms.
A unique place to stay in Berlin, perfect for young and adventurous travellers.
See more photos and book here.
Best budget hotel: Industriepalast Hostel Berlin (the place does have private rooms with private bathrooms even though the name says it’s a hostel)
Industriepalast Hostel Berlin is a budget-friendly accommodation option located in Friedrichshain. It offers shared dorms and private rooms, catering to varying privacy preferences.
The rooms are clean, comfortable, and functional. With a communal kitchen, a games room, and a lobby bar, it fosters a sociable environment.
Located near transport links and local attractions, it’s an excellent choice for an economical yet comfortable stay in Berlin.
See more photos and book here.
6. Tiergarten – central area with a massive park 🌳
Tiergarten is sometimes overlooked as it’s quite a small area, but it’s extremely central and I think it’s worth a mention.
Navigating through Berlin, you’ll find that Tiergarten, both a district and a lush park within the city, tends to hold a particular appeal for travellers who prioritize central locations and scenic greenery.
Especially if you appreciate a morning jog or an afternoon stroll through nature, positioning your stay around this area offers both the tranquillity of expansive green spaces and the convenience of proximity to vital points within the city.
Staying in Tiergarten, particularly around the park’s edges, situates you amidst a blend of charming cafes, well-established hotels, and effortless access to public transport.
See the best hotels in Tiergarten here.
The Berlin Hauptbahnhof, Berlin’s largest train station, lies just north of the park.
Not only does it facilitate simple travel to various parts of Berlin, but it also serves as a junction for exploring farther destinations within Germany. And this is where the express train from Berlin Airport departs.
Let’s delve into an essential consideration: mobility within the city.
Berlin’s robust U-Bahn system features several stations scattered around Tiergarten, ensuring that moving from your hotel to other districts or attractions is relatively uncomplicated.
Lines U1 and U2, for example, facilitate quick access to areas like Kreuzberg and Mitte, introducing you to a world of dining, historical sites, and local culture without extensive travel times.
Visiting the park itself, the Tiergarten offers not just a respite from the urban environment but also a slew of statues, monuments, and even a zoo for a leisurely day’s exploration.
Considering its vast size, you’ll find multiple points of interest within its confines – from serene ponds and statues to the notable Siegessäule, a victory column you can climb to catch panoramic views of Berlin.
To summarise, selecting Tiergarten as your base during your Berlin visit combines the dual benefit of a centrally-located accommodation point with the added allure of nature and leisure walks just a step away from your hotel room.
Places to stay in Tiergarten
Hotels in Tiergarten span a range of price points and styles, so whether you’re travelling on a budget or ready to splurge, there’s likely an option that fits your needs.
The JW Marriott Hotel in Berlin gets a lot of love from travellers, and it’s easy to see why when you look at its spot near Potsdamer Platz.
It’s smack dab in the middle of things, making it super easy to get to cool sites like the Brandenburg Gate or the Berliner Philharmonie.
When reading past guest reviews, the comfy rooms are a big hit, offering a nice place to crash after a busy day out and about. People also enjoy the indoor pool and wellness area, a peaceful spot to unwind.
Plus, if you’re into steaks or want a solid breakfast to kick off your day of exploring, the Midtown Grill in the hotel is a winner, according to many folks who’ve stayed.
See more photos and book here.
Pestana Berlin Tiergarten is a solid spot to set up base when exploring Berlin, especially given its fab location in Tiergarten.
Just leafing through people’s reviews, it’s clear that guests appreciate being close to major attractions but also tucked away in a peaceful pocket.
The rooms are comfortable and clean, as per numerous traveller accounts, providing a good night’s sleep after trekking around the city.
The breakfast is a detail that stands out from guest comments – people really dig it. There’s a lot of talk about the variety and quality of food to kickstart the day.
Plus, some visitors enjoyed a little downtime in the hotel’s sauna and pool area, providing a chill break from all the sightseeing.
Pestana is a spot where you can get the best of both worlds – central but with the option for a quiet escape when needed.
See more photos and book here.
I’ve also found a new, very cool place to stay in Berlin!
Looks like Pullman Berlin Schweizerhof has caught the attention of quite a few folks exploring Berlin!
People talk about its fresh and modern vibe, given that it’s a relatively new hotel in Tiergarten.
One thing that repeatedly pops up in reviews is the chill pool area – a big hit for those looking to wind down after a day of exploring. Several travellers describe rooms as comfy and stylish, providing a cosy spot to recharge.
Plus, the breakfast gets two thumbs up from multiple guests for its tasty and varied options, ensuring you start your day on a good note.
For those who appreciate a dash of contemporary flair while being close to the action, Pullman Berlin Schweizerhof strikes a nice balance.
See more photos and book here.
I hope you found this guide useful – if you’ve any questions about your upcoming trip to Berlin, let me know in the comments below.
FAQ:
Where to stay for the first time in Berlin?
It depends on your preferences and interests, but Mitte and Prenzlauer Berg are generally popular with tourists as they have plenty of things to do. Mitte is home to some of Berlin’s most famous monuments and museums, such as the Brandenburg Gate and the Museum Island, while Prenzlauer Berg offers trendy shops, restaurants and bars in a more bohemian atmosphere. Other popular areas include Kreuzberg and Neukölln, known for their multicultural vibe and lively nightlife.
Is it better to stay in East or West Berlin?
Choosing between East and West Berlin ultimately depends on what you’re seeking from your stay in the city.
West Berlin tends to be more upscale and traditionally tourist-oriented, with many of the city’s renowned attractions such as the Charlottenburg Palace and the Berlin Zoo. It’s known for its elegant shopping districts, like Kurfürstendamm, and it houses more conventional, high-end accommodations. The vibe is somewhat quieter and, as you mentioned, it might be seen as cleaner and more family-friendly.
On the other hand, East Berlin is known for its vibrant nightlife, bustling arts scene, and an eclectic mix of bars, clubs, and restaurants. It’s home to areas like Kreuzberg and Friedrichshain, known for their cultural diversity and historic landmarks like the East Side Gallery. The accommodation options in East Berlin are varied, from luxury hotels to budget hostels. It’s generally more appealing to younger travellers or those seeking a more adventurous, off-the-beaten-track experience.
So, if you’re travelling with family or prefer a more refined, relaxed trip, West Berlin may suit you better. However, if you’re after a lively, culturally rich experience in a more bohemian environment, East Berlin would be a great fit. Remember, Berlin’s excellent public transport system makes it easy to explore all areas of the city, no matter where you choose to stay.
How much does it cost to stay in hotels in Berlin?
The prices of hotels in Berlin vary depending on the season, location and quality of the hotel. Generally, you can expect to pay between €50-150 per night for a standard double room in a 3-star hotel in the city centre (Mitte). If you’re looking for more luxurious accommodation or want to stay in a trendier part of town, prices can rise to over €200 per night. In addition, there are also many budget-friendly options, such as hostels and Airbnb apartments, which can be cheaper than traditional hotels.
What is the main area of Berlin?
Berlin doesn’t have an actual main area, but Mitte is the closest, as Mitte translates to “center”.
What’s the coolest neighborhood in Berlin?
Kreuzberg and bordering Neukölln are considered the coolest neighbourhoods in Berlin and probably in all of Germany. Wedding has long been named “the next Kreuzberg”, but Kreuzberg still takes the prize.
How walkable is Berlin?
Berlin is a vast city, and you’ll be surprised how far from each other some of the areas are. So Berlin can’t be categorised as a walkable city, especially compared to other European cities such as Prague, Copenhagen, Amsterdam and Budapest.
Where not to stay in Berlin?
Berlin, like any major city, has areas that may not appeal to every visitor, largely due to their location, lack of typical tourist amenities, or limited attractions.
Marzahn, for example, is a largely residential district on the eastern outskirts of Berlin. It’s known for its high-rise apartment blocks and the beautiful Gardens of the World, but it lacks the nightlife, historic sites, and cultural institutions that characterise more central districts. Unless you’re particularly interested in seeing a different side of Berlin life, it might not be the most exciting place to base yourself.
Similarly, Lichtenberg is another district somewhat removed from Berlin’s main attractions. While it’s home to a few sites of interest, such as the Stasi Museum and the Tierpark Berlin, it’s typically not the first choice for tourists seeking a centrally-located base for exploring the city.
It’s worth noting that safety can also be a consideration when choosing where to stay in Berlin. While the city is generally safe, it’s always wise to research and stay informed about the areas you’re planning to visit or stay in.
As always, your choice of accommodation should align with what you want out of your visit. Berlin boasts a comprehensive and efficient public transport system, so staying further out doesn’t necessarily mean missing out. However, if you’re looking to be in the heart of the action, districts like Mitte, Kreuzberg, Friedrichshain, Charlottenburg, and Prenzlauer Berg might be more appealing options.
Travel ressources & websites I use all the time 👇
• Booking.com has the best offers on hotels and unique places to stay
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• Welcome Pickups is the best & safest place to pre-book airport transfers
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Hi
Your page popped up whilst I was researching Berlin as we have booked now for December to see the sights and sample the Christmas markets. Your page has given me so much information that I needed to help with our little break. Thank you for that. I have booked the NH Collection hotel on your recommendation and the ABC tickets too. Things I would have never known about. Just wondering if you can help with the train we need to get to the hotel from the airport. We can figure the following other days out to get around but it would help a lot to go straight to where we need to go and get the right train as it will be late in the evening when we arrive. Any other info about eating out breakfast and snacks and anything else would be gladly appreciated.
Thank you for a great insight into Berlin.
Hi Josie
I’m so happy you found my posts helpful, thanks for the kind words!
You can take the FEX (the Airport Express) train from Berlin Airport to Berlin Ostkreuz (17 min) and change to the S-Bahn ( you can take all S-trains in the westbound direction) to Friedrichsstrasse (it’s only 12 mins, 6 stops).
I did just that a couple of weeks ago, and I’m currently editing a video about Berlin airport transport that should go live on the Youtube channel soon. Here’s a link to the channel: https://www.youtube.com/@destinationwellknown/
There’s another Berlin-video online where I go on a walk I highly recommend: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=a39XSS5ciKo