I’ve written a comprehensive guide to the best places to stay in Berlin to help you choose the perfect place to suit your travels.
Our Pick of the Best Hotels in Berlin 🔥
- 💎 Luxury Hotel: The Ritz-Carlton
- 🔮 Boutique hotel: SO/ Berlin Das Stue
- ✨ 5-Star: Grand Hyatt
- 🏨 4-Star: NH Collection
- 💸 Budget-friendly: MEININGER Hotel
- ✈️ Near Airport: Steigenberger Airport Hotel
- 🌇 Best Views of the City: Berlin Marriott Hotel
- 🕌 Near Main Attractions: Hampton by Hilton
- 👨👩👧👦 For Families: Adina Apartment Hotel
Welcome to Berlin, a city where every neighborhood tells its own story. If you’re wondering where to stay, we’ve got you covered. From the bohemian vibe of Friedrichshain to the historic charm of Mitte and the artistic spirit of Kreuzberg, Berlin offers a neighborhood for every taste.
In this guide, we’ll go beyond the usual tourist recommendations, providing personalized insights into each district. Whether you fancy the leafy streets of Prenzlauer Berg or the alternative scene in Neukölln, we’ve got the details to help you make an informed choice.
By the end, you’ll know exactly where to make your home base for an unforgettable Berlin experience.
Quick Berlin Neighborhood Guide 📄
- 📍 For Sightseeing: Mitte
- 🍸 For Nightlife: Kreuzberg
- 💰 Budget-friendly: Friedrichshain
- 👛 For Shopping: Charlottenburg
- 👪 For Families: Prenzlauer Berg
- 🕊 Away from the Crowd: Schöneberg
- 🌳 Largest Park: Tiergarten
- 🔮 For Local Vibe: Neukölln
1. Mitte – City Centre, Main Attractions Nearby 🕍
🏰 Historic hub: Mitte is the historic heart of Berlin. Neighborhood contains many of the most iconic landmarks associated with the city, making it a must-see for any first-time visitor.
📸 Top attractions: Sitting along the banks of the Spree River, Mitte places you within walking distance of top attractions like:
- the Reichstag building with its famed glass dome,
- the Brandenburg Gate,
- the Berlin Wall Memorial,
- Museum Island with its world-class museums,
and Alexanderplatz with its 368-foot Fernsehturm tower offering panoramic views.
🚇 Well-connected: Getting around Mitte is incredibly easy thanks to an abundance of transit options. The neighborhood is served by six different U-Bahn and S-Bahn metro lines as well as numerous bus routes and trams connecting you conveniently to destinations across Berlin City.
💰 Pricier: Convenience comes at a price. Being the most central area, Mitte is generally more expensive than other parts of Berlin. It is possible to find good rooms here at a reasonable price. But those on a budget should consider the neighboring districts of Friedrichshain or Kreuzberg.
Where to stay in Mitte?
Expensive hotels:
- Hotel Adlon Kempinski Berlin – a luxury hotel with a rich history, located next to the Brandenburg Gate, offers a high level of service and comfort.
- Regent Berlin, an IHG Hotel – an elegant hotel in the heart of Berlin with panoramic views of the city, featuring upscale service and exquisite décor.
- Boutique Hotel Château Royal – a chic boutique hotel in a historic building with individually decorated rooms and personalized service.
Medium price category:
- AMERON Hotel Abion Spreebogen – a modern hotel by the Spree River, offering comfortable rooms and good value for money.
- TITANIC Gendarmenmarkt – hotel in the center of Berlin with comfortable rooms and a restaurant overlooking the Gendarmenmarkt square.
- Hotel Aquino – small cozy hotel near Alexanderplatz, suitable for a comfortable stay at a reasonable price.
Budget hotels:
- Holiday at Alexanderplatz Apartments – reasonably priced apartments near the popular Alexanderplatz square, a convenient option for independent travelers.
- Raja Jooseppi Apartments – simple and inexpensive apartments in the center of Berlin, a good choice for budget accommodation.
- Oase im Park – a small hotel with basic amenities at a reasonable price, located in a quiet location next to a park.
2. Kreuzberg – Lively Nightlife near the City Center 💃🏻
🌈 Diverse hood: As one of Berlin’s more diverse districts, Kreuzberg offers visitors a peek into the city’s vibrant immigrant communities alongside plentiful cafes, bars, street art, and alternative culture.
📍 Well-located: Conveniently situated adjacent to the city’s central Mitte district and easily accessible via public transit, Kreuzberg sits alongside the Landwehrkanal waterway. Many of Kreuzberg’s top sights can be readily reached in just 5-10 minutes on Berlin’s extensive bus, tram and U-bahn metro system.
🔝 Key highlights include:
- Checkpoint Charlie – famous Cold War-era border crossing point
- Street Art – colorfully painted murals throughout the district
- Görlitzer Park – popular green space with regular flea markes
- Oranienstrasse – busy strip with bars, nightlife and shops
Don’t forget to visit the Turkish Market, an open-air ethnic bazaar on Maybachufer Street along the canal.
🧑🤝🧑 Trendy hood: The neighborhood has changed over the years. And for the better. Today, Kreuzberg is one of the most popular places for young Berliners to live. That’s why you’ll find vintage stores, trendy clubs and restaurants here.
Where to stay in Kreuzberg?
Expensive hotels:
- Orania.Berlin – an elegant boutique hotel in a quiet neighborhood with a sophisticated interior and high level of service.
- Pure Berlin Apartments – luxurious apartments in the city center with fully equipped kitchens and stylish design.
Medium price category:
- Wil7 Boutique Hotel – modern boutique hotel with designer rooms and a great location close to the subway and tourist attractions.
- Hotel the YARD – a cozy hotel with a bright interior, located in a quiet courtyard near the park.
- Hüttenpalast – an unusual hostel in the form of Alpine huts with creative design and friendly atmosphere.
Budget hotels:
- Hotel Ludwig van Beethoven – a simple and inexpensive hotel with a classic interior and good value for money.
- limehome Berlin Stresemannstr – modern apartments at a reasonable price with a fully equipped kitchen and a convenient location near the center.
- Grand Hostel Berlin Urban – a loft-style youth hostel with shared kitchens and a variety of public areas.
3. Friedrichshain – Budget-friendly Area in Former East Berlin 💸
Friedrichshain is one of Berlin’s most vibrant neighborhoods.
🗺 In terms of location, Friedrichshain lies just east of the city center. It is bordered by some of Berlin’s main attractions, including
- the striking East Side Gallery stretch
- the Berlin Wall and the sprawling Volkspark Friedrichshain
From its central area at Warschauer Straße station, visitors can easily access public transportation to reach sights across Berlin.
🌷 Local flavor: Wandering through Friedrichshain reveals plenty of local flavor. Be sure to see:
- The eye-popping murals and street art, especially along Simon-Dach-Straße
- Flowering green spaces like Boxhagener Platz
- Quirky boutiques and cafés lining Mainzer Straße
🎉 When night falls, Friedrichshain comes alive. The techno club scene here is legendary, while bars and pubs overflow with young Berliners socializing over German brews. From laidback hangouts to pulsating clubs pumping music into the early morning hours, Friedrichshain promises dynamic nighttime entertainment.
All hotels in Friedrichshain →
Where to stay in Friedrichshain?
Mid-range hotels:
- Hotel Indigo Berlin - East Side Gallery – stylish hotel in modern design with panoramic views of the famous East Side Gallery.
- Schulz Hotel Berlin Wall at the East Side Gallery – a comfortable hotel in a good location near the East Side Gallery and the Berlin Wall.
- Holiday Inn Berlin City East Side, an IHG Hotel – a modern Holiday Inn with an excellent location and good value for money.
Budget hotels:
- Hotel 26 – a simple and inexpensive hotel with clean comfortable rooms at an affordable price.
- Kiez Hostel Berlin – a youth hostel with shared bedrooms and all the basic amenities at a low price.
- Nu Wave Hotel Berlin – a stylish budget hotel with a colorful design located near Warschauer Strasse.
4. Charlottenburg – Best Berlin Area for Shopping, near Berlin Zoo 🛒
Located in the affluent Westend district, Charlottenburg is one of Berlin’s most beloved neighborhoods.
🚏 Well-located: Charlottenburg is located just 5km west of the Brandenburg Gate and Berlin’s main downtown Mitte district, making it easy to access yet pleasantly removed from the hustle and bustle.
⭐ Must-see attractions not to miss include:
- Schloss Charlottenburg – This stunning 18th century Baroque palace and gardens was once the royal residence of Prussian royalty.
- Museum Berggruen – View an impressive collection of modern art by Picasso, Klee, and Giacometti inside this striking contemporary building.
- Breitscheidplatz – Soak in the festive atmosphere at one of Berlin’s largest and most famous squares, home to the historic Kaiser Wilhelm Memorial Church and lively Christmas markets.
🛍️ Shopper’s paradise: In my opinion this is the best part of the city for shopping, so it’s Berlin’s premier neighborhood to update your closet. Shopaholics will love shopping in the high-end boutiques on Kurfürstendamm. The Kaufhaus des Westens (KaDeWe) store is also located here. This huge complex is the largest department store in Europe.
As a bottom line, this is one of Berlin’s best neighborhoods for travelers looking for an elegant but quieter alternative to Mitte.
All hotels in Charlottenburg →
Where to stay in Charlottenburg?
Expensive hotels:
- Hotel Zoo Berlin – a luxury 5-star hotel in an early 20th century building with a gourmet restaurant and spa.
- Hotel am Steinplatz, Autograph Collection – an upscale hotel in a historic mansion with luxurious interiors, upscale restaurant and personalized service.
Medium price category:
- Lindner Hotel Berlin Ku'damm, part of JdV by Hyatt – a modern 4-star hotel within walking distance of Kurfürstendamm with a fitness center and a restaurant with gorgeous views.
- Townhouse Berlin – a small boutique hotel in a quiet location with a homely atmosphere and friendly staff.
- Wilmina Hotel – a comfortable hotel in a sleek building with courteous staff and a good breakfast.
Budget hotels:
- Goodman's Living – a hostel with minimalist design, shared kitchen and a convenient location near the subway.
- Hampton by Hilton Berlin City West – a comfortable Hampton hotel within a 10-minute walk of Kurfürstendamm at an affordable price.
- Art'Appart Suiten – an economical self-catering apartment suitable for longer stays.
5. Prenzlauer Berg – Best Place to Stay in Berlin with Family 👨👩👧👦
Located in the Pankow district of former East Berlin, Prenzlauer Berg has transformed over the last few decades into one of the most popular neighborhoods for visitors to explore.
🚊 Well-connected: Conveniently situated not far north of major attractions, Prenzlauer Berg is easily accessible by public transportation. The U2 metro line has several stops throughout the neighborhood, making getting around a breeze.
🌳 Leafy streets: Prenzlauer Berg is noticeably greener than other neighborhoods in central Berlin. Tree-lined boulevards and historic architecture will surround you as you stroll around. Parks and playgrounds are also scattered everywhere. Prenzlauer Berg is a great choice for families coming to Berlin together.
📝 Must-see sights include:
- Mauerpark – Sprawling green space and Sunday flea market
- Kollwitzplatz – Iconic square ringed by cafes and restaurants
- Kulturbrauerei – Massive former brewery converted into shops and venues
🍴 For foodies, choosing Prenzlauer Berg as a base in Berlin is almost a must. There is a particularly large selection of restaurants in the neighborhoods of Kollwitzplatz, Oderbergerstrasse and Kastanienallee.
☕️ Relax like locals: In addition to its wealth of restaurants and attractions, Prenzlauer Berg entices visitors to slow down and enjoy city living like a local. Grab a table at one of the many excellent cafés and watch the world go by over a perfect latte.
All hotels in Prenzlauer Berg →
Where to stay in Prenzlauer Berg?
Expensive hotels:
- Urbn Dreams – stylish apartments in modern design with fully equipped kitchens and high-quality amenities.
- Holiday 33 Apartments ABCD – spacious apartments with panoramic views of Alexanderplatz and state-of-the-art technology.
- Urbn Dreams II – elegant Scandinavian-style apartments with a high level of comfort and premium amenities.
Medium price category:
- Myer's Hotel Berlin – a designer-style boutique hotel with a cozy atmosphere and high level of service.
- Belfort Rooms & Apartments – modern style apartments with quality furniture and good value for money.
- Gold Palais Hotel – hotel in a refined style with comfortable rooms and buffet breakfast.
Budget hotels:
- limehome Berlin Prenzlauer Allee – rooms with all amenities at a reasonable price, digital access instead of check-in.
- ibis Hotel Berlin Mitte – simple rooms from a well-known chain with good value for money, convenient location.
- Old Town Hostel – friendly hostel with basic amenities at an affordable price, located in the heart of the city center.
6. Schöneberg – Away from the Hustle and Bustle 🕊
Nestled alongside the hustle and bustle of central Berlin, Schöneberg beckons visitors with its small-town charm and understated cool.
⌚ Convenient: From here, you can easily access major attractions like the Reichstag and Museum Island within 30 minutes. Yet it retains a neighborhood feel, away from the most heavily touristed areas.
🌳 Charming streets: Wandering through Schöneberg’s tree-lined streets, you’ll find an eclectic mix of sights and activities:
- Wittenbergplatz – this bustling square hosts markets and events year-round
- Winterfeldplatz – a weekly farmers market selling fresh produce and street food
And bustling Potsdamer Straße, home to boutiques, cafes and Berlin’s historic subway station.
🚇 Connected: The U1, U2, and U3 metro lines criss-cross the area, making it easy to reach top destinations. And flat streets lined with sidewalks and bike lanes allow you to explore Schöneberg’s charms on foot or two wheels.
Where to stay in Schöneberg?
Mid-range hotels:
- Aparthotel Adagio Berlin Kurfürstendamm – a modern aparthotel with all amenities and a great location on Berlin’s main shopping street, ideal for longer stays.
- numa l Drift Rooms & Apartments – apartments with a full kitchen at an affordable price, ideal for longer stays.
- Das Literaturhotel Berlin – a cozy themed hotel dedicated to German literature, quietly located near popular attractions.
Budget hotels:
- ibis Berlin Kurfuerstendamm – functional rooms from a well-known brand in a prestigious neighborhood at a reasonable price.
- Mercure Berlin Wittenbergplatz – a well-known chain hotel with an excellent combination of price and quality.
- Motel One Berlin – stylish designer hotel with basic amenities and attractive value for money.
7. Tiergarten – Explore the Largest Park in Berlin 🏞
🌲 Vast park: Nestled right in the center of Berlin, the Tiergarten district encompasses the city’s most beloved park, the Tiergarten. This vast green space sprawls over 210 hectares.
🎻 Cultural hub: Tiergarten has plenty to keep visitors occupied within its own boundaries as well. Cyclists and joggers flock to the park’s trails and footpaths. Major cultural attractions range from the Berlin Philharmonic to the Haus der Kulturen der Welt contemporary arts center.
🍽️ Michelin cuisine: For an unforgettable meal, book a table at one of Tiergarten’s Michelin-starred restaurants like the modern German spot Facil or the Mediterranean-Asian fusion concept Yin.
🛍️ Shopping time: High-end boutiques and designer stores line the streets between Potsdamer Platz and Kurfürstendamm. Big international chains sit alongside local Berlin designers and brands.
This neighborhood is perfect for a relaxing stopover in Berlin, while still being close to the city’s key attractions.
Where to stay in Tiergarten?
Expensive hotels:
- SO/ Berlin Das Stue – an elegant premium design hotel with a Michelin restaurant.
- Waldorf Astoria Berlin – a luxury hotel with upscale service, a gourmet restaurant and elegant interiors.
- Hotel Palace Berlin – a historic five-star hotel in the center of Berlin, known for its excellent service, Mediterranean restaurant and luxurious interiors.
Medium price category:
- InterContinental – a modern hotel with a good location in the city center, high level of service, has a fitness center and a restaurant with city views.
- Pullman Berlin Schweizerhof – elegant rooms in a historic building in the heart of Berlin, a great hotel for business and leisure travel with stylish design.
- Pestana Berlin – cozy modern hotel with Scandinavian design near the Tiergarten, a great combination of comfort, location and price.
Budget hotels:
- B&B Hotel Berlin – a simple hotel with a good location in the green neighborhood of Tiergarten.
- Oase im Park – a small, family-run hotel in the Humboldthein Nature Reserve.
8. Neukölln – One of the Most Promising Neighborhoods 📈
📍 Great location: Neukölln sits just south of central Berlin, near popular destinations like Museum Island and Brandenburg Gate. The U-Bahn red line U7 and U8 provide direct transportation links to these attractions and elsewhere in Berlin.
🏙 Lively landmarks: While providing good launch points to well-known Berlin sites, Neukölln itself hosts lively streets and important landmarks like:
- Karl-Marx-Straße – Vibrant shops, food and street culture along this main boulevard
- Rathaus Neukölln – Historic city hall featuring ornate early 20th century architecture
- Tempelhofer Feld – Vast former airport turned public park perfect for strolling
And the Turkish Market near the Maybachufer subway station, lively open-air bazaar selling fruits, vegetables and specialty goods.
🧑🤝🧑 Authentic life: With roots as a working-class neighborhood, Neukölln still maintains an authentic Berliner flavor. Less polished than central areas like Mitte, it provides a true sense of everyday German life.
Its affordable rents draw students, artists and young professionals who animate the cafes and bars contributing to the area’s reputation as up-and-coming.
Best hotels in Neukölln
Mid-range hotels:
- Estrel Berlin – a fashionable hotel with extensive facilities including conference rooms, spa and entertainment venues.
- Leonardo Boutique Hotel – stylish design hotel in a quiet location with a high level of service.
- Aeronaut Service Apartments – full-service apartments in a vibrant neighborhood.
Budget hotels:
- Ferienwohnung 3 – guest apartments with the comforts of home in a quiet location at a reasonable price.
- Grand Hostel Berlin Urban – modern hostel in the city center with comfortable rooms at an affordable price.
- Ruhige Zimmer im Grünen – quiet rooms with park views at an attractive price.
Top Tips for Your Trip to Berlin 🔝
1. Master Public Transit: 🚍 Use the BVG app for seamless navigation through Berlin’s buses, trams, and trains. From the Brandenburg Gate to Kreuzberg, this tool ensures hassle-free travel.
2. Savor Local Flavors: 😋 Dive into Berlin’s food scene at spots like Curry 36 and Zur Letzten Instanz. Try currywurst or schnitzel to experience the city’s culinary diversity.
3. Stay Street Smart: ⚠ Explore trendy neighborhoods but stay vigilant against pickpockets, especially in crowded places like Mauerpark. Secure belongings and consider a money belt for added safety.
4. Unearth History: 🗃 Beyond the Berlin Wall, explore sites like the Stasi Museum and DDR Museum. Join local-led walking tours to unravel stories behind landmarks such as Checkpoint Charlie.
5. Connect in Green Oases: 🌳 Escape urban bustle at Tiergarten or Volkspark Friedrichshain. Engage in outdoor activities to connect with locals, recharge, and make lasting memories in Berlin.
Best Areas to Stay in Berlin on a Map 🗺
FAQ: Berlin for Tourists ❔
What is the most lively part of Berlin?
If you’re seeking vibrant energy and a bustling atmosphere, Kreuzberg is the heart of Berlin’s lively scene. Its diverse streets are brimming with eclectic cafes, street art, and a mix of cultures. You’ll find a rich nightlife, artistic flair, and a dynamic street culture that gives Berlin its unique character.
How many days is enough for Berlin?
To fully experience Berlin’s rich history and contemporary charm, plan for at least 4-5 days. This timeframe allows you to explore iconic landmarks like the Brandenburg Gate, delve into museums on Museum Island, and soak in the city’s eclectic neighborhoods without feeling rushed.
Where to avoid staying in Berlin?
While Berlin is generally safe, some areas may be less appealing for tourists, especially late at night. Areas like Wedding and parts of Neukölln can be a bit rough around the edges. Exercise caution and choose accommodations in well-traveled and well-lit areas.
What area of Berlin is best for nightlife?
For an unforgettable nightlife experience, head to Kreuzberg or Friedrichshain. This districts boast a plethora of bars, clubs, and live music venues. The famous RAW-Gelände, a former railway repair station turned nightlife hotspot, is a must-visit for those seeking an authentic Berlin party scene.
How to stay in Berlin for cheap?
To keep your Berlin stay budget-friendly, consider hostels in areas like Prenzlauer Berg or Friedrichshain. Additionally, explore the city’s efficient public transportation system, indulge in street food, and take advantage of free attractions like the East Side Gallery and the Memorial to the Murdered Jews of Europe.
Which is better to stay – East or West Berlin?
Both East and West Berlin offer unique experiences, so your choice depends on your preferences. East Berlin, with its artistic vibe and vibrant nightlife, is ideal for those seeking a more bohemian atmosphere. West Berlin, on the other hand, provides a mix of modernity and history, making it suitable for a balanced exploration of the city.
