Where To Stay In Berlin, Germany

When I was planning my trip to Berlin, there were many things to consider, such as what to see and do, and the kind of vibe I was looking for. The part of the City I choose to stay in could literally make or break the trip. I wanted to be close to many of the things I wanted to experience and to embrace the local culture at the same time.

So, if you are visiting Berlin for the first time and want to tick off all the best attractions or are eager to soak up the chic or energetic vibes of Berlin’s neighborhoods during your second or third visit, we’ve got you covered. Berlin is jam-packed with iconic landmarks and vibrant quarters, making it a popular destination for returning travelers.

So, let us discover my favorite places to stay in Berlin.

The Best Areas to Stay in Berlin

Now that we have uncovered the best hotels to suit your needs, why not investigate which neighborhood ticks all your boxes? Berlin has an eclectic variety of places to stay, and here are the top 10 areas to consider.

1. Mitte

Best place to stay for sightseeing

Mitte is essentially the center (or middle in German) of Berlin and is by far the best place for first-time visitors to stay in Berlin. This is the hub of sightseeing, and those new to the city are most likely eager to see top sights like the Brandenburg Gate and The Berlin Wall Memorial, both located in Mitte.

It has a mix of modern and historic excellent place to stay to enjoy the city’s best. This trendy district in Berlin is a wonderful place for solo travelers, families, and couples who want to explore, try local cuisine, and, above all else, soak up Berlin’s famous energy.

Staying in Mitte also benefits because you have the Hauptbahnhof central station on your doorstep, so you can easily visit other cities or regions if time allows. So, if Mitte sounds like it could be the right neighborhood for you to choose when visiting Berlin, check out our Mitte mini-guide below.

2. Prenzlauer Berg

An ideal place for families to stay in Berlin

This laid-back quarter of Berlin is located just north of Mitte and is an excellent place for those who want to be close to the local attractions while staying outside of the hustle and bustle of the center. The neighborhood is dotted with playgrounds, tree-lined streets, hip cafes, and diverse restaurants, making it a popular choice for families to stay.

If you seek the perfect blend of calm and quiet, Prenzlauer Berg could be your ideal option. Here, you can enjoy wandering the cute streets, exploring Volkspark Friedrichshain, and soaking up the tranquil atmosphere of Berlin’s most beautiful neighborhood.

The location of Prenzlauer Berg makes it easy to access Mitte and Friedrichshain on foot or by public transport, so if you want the best area for low-key nightlife or a family-friendly vibe, then this is it.

3. Kreuzberg

To experience Berlin nightlife

Located south of Mitte, Kreuzberg is one of the best neighborhoods to stay in Berlin for many reasons. Regarding culture and nightlife, Kreuzberg is among the coolest areas in the city, alongside Neukölln and Friedrichshain, and is ideal for adventure seekers and artistic travelers.

It is dotted with avant-garde galleries, vibrant bars, late-night venues, and eclectic street art. Kreuzberg, so you could say that this neighborhood is best suited to night owls and free spirits. The ideal location means you can easily visit Mitte and other areas of Berlin, but there are many things to see and do in this neighborhood without needing to move too far.

By day, Kreuzberg is ideal for exploring colorful streets, cozy cafes, and art galleries. By night, the area transforms into a haven for partygoers and music lovers. In addition to the nightlife, Viktoria Park offers a tranquil escape, crowned by the iconic Kreuzberg monument.

4. Friedrichshain

For a budget-friendly vacation

Friedrichshain is most likely a neighborhood you have heard about since plenty of people choose to stay in this region of the city. Why? Well, this is the place to enjoy a diverse music scene, underground clubs, and trendy bars, which Berlin is well known for, and in Friedrichshain, you have it all on your doorstep.

Located adjacent to Kreuzberg, well known for its nightlife, Friedrichshain offers an edgy and alternative experience that attracts the young and bohemian. By day, you can explore vibrant markets, wander past the East Side Gallery, or take a stroll through Volkspark, but by night, you will enjoy plenty of opportunities around the area.

Indie boutiques and casual eateries attract both locals and international visitors, and the area is a fantastic choice for those who want to dive headfirst into Berlin’s alternative side. You can easily explore other neighborhoods like Kreuzberg and Mitte from here.

5. Schöneberg

For a local experience

The neighborhood of Schöneberg can be described as quirky and diverse, providing visitors with a wide selection of things to see, do, and experience. It features iconic Berlin nightlife, excellent shopping opportunities, and open green spaces to relax and recoup, making it a well-rounded place to stay when visiting the city.

If you want to enjoy a more local vibe, then Schöneberg has to be considered since it is visited but has not yet been conquered by tourists, which may appeal if you are searching for an off-the-beaten-path experience. You can find plenty of cafes, wide green alleys, and many locals mingling and enjoying the peaceful surroundings.

In addition, KaDeWe is the area’s iconic luxury department store, ideal for shopping. At the same time, Rathaus Schöneberg is where John F. Kennedy made his famous speech ‘Ich bin ein Berliner.’ By night, Schöneberg is a fascinating place to discover hidden bars, a thriving LGBT + scene, and some of Berlin’s best party venues, which is a must if you want to enjoy a local night out.

6. Neukölln

A melting pot of cultures

When discussing Neukölln, we cannot miss mentioning the array of food options available here. This is a food lovers’ paradise since the area is one of the most culturally diverse in the city and boasts many international eateries. Because of the international diversity, there is an apparent atmosphere of inclusivity, which makes Neukölln stand out in its own way.

This melting pot of cultures stands as a testament to Berlin’s global identity, and if this is a side of Berlin that you seek to experience or have heard about before, then you might enjoy basing yourself in Neukölln. Weserstrasse is the place to get your hands on some great cuisines, while Tempelhofer Feld – a former airport turned public park, is the place to relax and watch the world go by.

On top of these features, Neukölln is a great place to enjoy music (especially at Klunkerkranich), browse discount stores and vintage shops, and enjoy a laid-back vibe like the locals do.

7. Charlottenburg

Berlin’s most affluent neighborhood

Located in the western part of Berlin, Charlottenburg is the most affluent neighborhood in the city and is the place to find excellent hotels, fine dining options, and world-class shopping. The area balances its historic charm and modern flair, where locals and visitors can enjoy luxury among tree-lined streets.

For those who want to indulge in the best shopping opportunities in Charlottenburg, you can find the most upscale shops dotted along Kurfurstendamm, which exudes an air of sophistication and elegance. The area has plenty of great hotels, bars, and restaurants and is ideal for a quieter stay in Berlin. It is a perfect place to stay if you want to treat yourself to top-class accommodation.

So, what is there to see and do here? Well, Charlottenburg has plenty of things to keep you entertained, and while it may not be the hub of underground clubs or trendy bars, it is a great place to discover historical buildings like Charlottenburg Palace and more.

8. Pankow

One of the largest neighborhoods in Berlin

Located in the northeast of Berlin, Pankow is a lesser-visited neighborhood, yet it has its perks. The area has a mix of lush greenery and bohemian vibes, making it a great place to soak up Berlin culture and enjoy the great outdoors between sightseeing. The neighborhood is among the biggest in the city and is known for its relaxed atmosphere, which can be very appealing in a big, bustling city.

Mauerpark is a popular spot for its Sunday flea market and open-air karaoke. At the same time, Prenzlauer Berg – a sub-neighborhood in this district is ideal for family-friendly rambles and relaxed café outings. The neighborhood is characterized by its charming streets, historic buildings, and family-friendly cafes and shops, so it is ideal for families or those seeking peaceful surroundings to base themselves on.

In addition, Pankow is known for its vibrant and community-focused spirit, and this is a great place to enjoy local activities and get to know the real Berlin outside of the main attractions.

9. Grunewald

The best place for nature and tranquility

Nestled along the Grunewald Forest, this nature-filled neighborhood is far from the hustle and bustle of Berlin Mitte. In fact, it’s quite the opposite. Here, you will be steps away from green open spaces, walking and cycling trails, and lakes, which provide a tranquil escape from the chaos that a capital city can ensue.

This is an ideal spot to choose when staying in Berlin if you want the balance of exploring the local attractions and enjoying the great green outdoors. The pristine lakes here, like Schlachtensee, offer glorious settings for relaxation, especially if you have been busy out and about exploring or perhaps the day after a night out in Berlin’s party districts.

Whatever you decide, we must admit that Grunewald is highly advised for those who want to enjoy exclusivity while just 15 minutes from the center. If you are staying here, you can look forward to returning to a place where you can find solace and a serene ambiance – in the heart of a capital city. What more could you ask for?

10. Moabit

An island within Berlin City

This multicultural residential area is a great place to visit Germany’s capital city, particularly if you enjoy beautiful surroundings. Moabit is known for its leafy green setting and its riverside location by the River Spree, just north of Tiergarten Park. Its ideal location makes it easy to visit the best attractions Berlin offers without needing to stay in the center.

To the east, you can find Berlin’s enormous Hauptbahnhof or central train station, ideal for exploring other regions if time allows. At the same time, Hamburger Bahnhof is a must-see old train station turned modern art museum. Shopping enthusiasts will love Turmstrasse, which boasts plenty of eateries, specifically delicious authentic Kebab shops run by Turkish immigrants.

Arminiusmarkhalle is also a great place to discover since it is known for its trendy food stalls within an old brick-laden hall. From Moabit, you can explore Berlin Mitte and other quirky neighborhoods of the city thanks to the excellent public transport system, and if you plan to stay here, take a look at our mini guide below.

FAQs

So, Where Should You Stay in Berlin?

Let’s recap Berlin by neighborhood.

• Mitte — This is a fantastic place to stay if you want to be in the center of Berlin, if sightseeing is your priority, or if it is your first time visiting the city. It suits all travelers and has various accommodation options to suit all budgets. It boasts many famous attractions, historical museums, and a vibrant cultural scene, which is what Berlin is all about.
• Prenzlauer Berg — We must admit that this is a great place to stay in Berlin if you travel with young kids. This neighborhood has a relaxed vibe, with many young professionals and families living here. Some excellent child-friendly amenities exist, like playgrounds, shops, and parks. This is also a great place to stay if you want to be close to the center but in a quieter, more bohemian setting.
• Kreuzberg — This diverse, multicultural neighborhood is famous for its alternative scene, eclectic shops, and nightlife. Berlin is well known as an alternative city, and this is the best neighborhood to witness. You will find several bars, restaurants, cafes, green spaces, and street art, so it is a perfect spot for those seeking diversity and uniqueness.
• Friedrichshain — Located adjacent to Kreuzberg, Friedrichshain is a popular choice for Berlin travelers since it is well known for its youthful energy and lively nightclubs. You will find the East Side Gallery here and Boxhagener Platz, which hosts a vibrant weekend market. Plenty of entertainment options and lively bars and restaurants are located along Simon-Dach-Strasse.
• Schöneberg — This culturally diverse and historically significant neighborhood in Berlin should be one of your top choices of where to stay if you seek good shopping, dining, and nightlife options. The neighborhood is known for its popular LGBTQ+ scene around Nollendorf Platz. It is centrally located, well developed, and safe for those visiting the city and offers something for everyone, including families.
• Neukölln — Known for its trendy and hip bars, cafes, and restaurants, Neukölln must be one of the city’s most rapidly growing neighborhoods and is a great place to stay when visiting the city. If you are a food lover, this is a fantastic place to try a variety of international cuisines, thanks to the large immigrant population, and the neighborhood is one of the most international in the city, which is fun to experience.
• Charlottenburg — Charlottenburg is arguably the most prestigious place for Berliners to live and is known for its affluent and elegant vibe. This is a great place to stay if you love theatre, museums, and historical attractions since you will find all this here, most notably Charlottenburg Palace. There is excellent shopping here and in Tiergarten Park, but you need to expect that accommodation may be more costly here.
• Pankow — This neighborhood is characterized by its stylish houses and lush greenery, making it a popular place for visitors to stay when exploring the city. The neighborhood Prenzlauer Berg is located within Pankow, but the district is one of the largest areas, and there are plenty of areas to choose from. This is ideal for families and those seeking a more relaxed stay in Berlin close to the city’s attractions.
• Grunewald —  As the name suggests (Green Forest), this neighborhood of Berlin is set beside a vast forest, and the area is home to affluent hotels and villas. This is a fantastic option if you prefer to stay in natural and peaceful surroundings while being close to plenty of historical attractions, museums, and recreational areas for walking and cycling.
• Moabit — Located in the heart of Berlin, surrounded by water, Moabit is almost an island within the city and makes for a unique place to visit. It has excellent access to Mitte and all the attractions. Still, it offers a quieter feel than the city center while boasting a range of amenities like Turmstrasse – a central shopping street and excellent international eateries.