Yulia Saf 
Looking for where to stay in Berlin? I’ve got you covered! I have done extensive research and compared all the BEST areas and hotels in Germany’s capital city!
As I lived in this charming place for some time, I’m happy to share my best insights about the 6 ideal areas to stay, so let me make planning your trip easy!
The best area for visitors is Mitte. It’s where all the main attractions are located, and the neighborhood is conveniently located for easy access to other districts and sights.
Below, I share the ultimate insights, hotels, and even restaurant recommendations for 6 spectacular areas so that you can stay in one that best matches your travel preferences!
I broke down the post by prices too so you could book your ideal accommodation in Berlin in literally minutes!
Quick Picks for Your Stay:
Here are Berlin’s best hotels in Mitte, the most popular area for tourists due to its vicinity to the iconic landmarks:
- Best luxury: Hotel Adlon Kempinski Berlin
- Best mid-range: Mercure Hotel & Residenz Berlin
- Best budget: Motel One Berlin-Alexanderplatz
Contents
- Quick Picks for Your Stay:
- Which area should you choose?
- 1. Mitte – where to stay in Berlin for the first time
- 2. Prenzlauer Berg – the trendiest place to stay
- 3. Kreuzberg – where to stay in Berlin for nightlife
- 4. Friedrichshain – where to stay in Berlin on a budget
- 5. Neukölln – most international area in Berlin
- 6. Charlottenburg-Wilmersdorf – for families
- BONUS: Airport hotels in Berlin
- FAQs about where to stay in Berlin
- Conclusion
Watch my video, it will give you a visual explanation of all the areas:
Which area should you choose?
Berlin is one of the only cities I know of that has a couple of city centers to stay in (due to the Berlin Wall that was dividing the city for decades). Here is a district map of Berlin with my recommended areas:
The city is divided into 12 administrative districts (“Bezirk” in German), and each district is divided into other smaller neighborhoods (“Kiez”). Each “kiez” has its own distinct people, specifics, and hidden gems. All of them complete the complex image of Berlin.
- Best area to stay in Berlin for budget travelers: Friedrichshain
- Where to stay in Berlin for first-timers: Mitte
- Where to stay in Berlin for nightlife: Kreuzberg
- Where to stay in Berlin for families: Charlottenburg
- Best place to stay to see the remains of the Berlin Wall: Friedrichshain
Berlin has a strong history behind it, and some of that history can still be seen today in the middle of the city, at the Berlin Wall!
The Berlin Wall is still preserved in parts of the city as a memory of the past, or transformed into new attractions (such as the East Side Gallery).
If you want to read more about this amazing city, here is my article with 22 things to do in Berlin – the ultimate bucket list!
1. Mitte – where to stay in Berlin for the first time
Is this your first time in Berlin? Are you wondering where to stay in Berlin for the weekend? Then you should consider staying in Mitte, for its world-class museums and location within walking distance of the main attractions!
Mitte, the former East Berlin, is the best area for sightseeing and a city break, as this is where all the most famous central Berlin attractions are located, like Alexanderplatz, Brandenburg Gate, and Museum Island.
Although the neighborhood has undergone many transformations over the years, you can still see traces of old times if you roam around the streets and observe the buildings.
When staying in Mitte, you’ll be within walking distance from the East Berlin Wall. If you want to explore more of the city, you’ll have a U Bahn station to take the metro and see more of what Berlin has to offer, including the nearby district of Prenzlauer Berg!
Oranienburger Straße is where all the chic cafés and restaurants are located, so make sure not to miss this street!
For the most authentic German experience in Mitte, you can dine out at Schnitzelei Mitte and taste the best schnitzel in town!
Luxury (€170 and up)
- Hotel Adlon Kempinski Berlin – a fantastic 5-star hotel with great luxurious amenities and upscale decorations. They have a double Michelin-star onsite restaurant, a neoclassical indoor pool, a fabulous gym, and a spa.
- Grimm’s Hotel am Potsdamer Platz – a superb hotel in Mitte, Berlin; only a 10-minute walk from Potsdamer Platz Square and Brandenburg Gate, you will find many lovely parks close by; rooms are modern and simple, and the breakfast options are delicious.
- Regent Berlin – if you want to stay in one of Berlin’s best 5-star hotels, this one’s for you; it’s close to the underground station, the rooms and bathrooms are spacious and spotless, and breakfast is also available in their lovely restaurant.
Mid-range (from €100 to €170)
- Art’otel Berlin Mitte – a great option with a wide variety of prices! It features a free Wi-Fi, modern rooms, and an excellent onsite bar called The Upside Down, where you can enjoy delicious drinks and food.
- Mercure Hotel & Residenz Berlin – clean and comfortable hotel, centrally-located, only minutes away from Checkpoint Charlie; rooms are bright, spacious, and tidy.
Budget (up to €100)
- Motel One Berlin-Alexanderplatz – another beautiful hotel with extremely convenient prices. Rooms and bathrooms are very stylish, and it’s located very close to Berlin Cathedral and the Neues Museum.
- Singer109 Hotel & Hostel – a gorgeous hostel ideal for anyone searching for cheap accommodation in Berlin. There are different options, from bunk beds to private rooms, free Wi-Fi, and a fun lounge area where you can unwind and make friends.
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2. Prenzlauer Berg – the trendiest place to stay
Do you want to stay in the coolest area in Berlin, surrounded by art galleries and bars, with an overall young vibe? Prenzlauer Berg is your place!
Prenzlauer Berg is now considered the upmarket part of Berlin, as many wealthy families live here!
You can stroll around the beautiful streets of East Berlin and stop in a hip café like the legendary Café Anna Blume for a coffee and a bit of Berlin cabaret vibes!
Don’t forget to visit some art galleries or designer shops around the neighborhood, there’s so much to explore!
Many of the older buildings in Prenzlauer Berg (like old breweries and factory buildings) were transformed into hotels and sophisticated restaurants!
You can have a unique experience while being within walking distance of all the attractions in the area and staying in hotels near German historic sites.
For the ultimate local city break, check out the Mauerpark flea market on a Sunday and get lost in the stalls offering jewelry, bags, home decor, and snacks.
Luxury (€150 and up)
- Myer’s Hotel Berlin – this historic hotel is another gorgeous 4-star property in Prenzlauer Berg; the rooms are clean and exquisite, and you will find art hanging all around this accommodation that also features an onsite restaurant.
- Ackselhaus & Blue Home – elegant, cozy, stylish apartments just steps from the Alexanderplatz inside a 19th-century building; all rooms have modern furnishings and are highly rated by couples.
Mid-range (from €100 to €150)
- Holiday Inn Berlin City Center East – a top 4-star accommodation near all the landmarks in the area! Beautiful rooms, a cozy shared lounge, free Wi-Fi, and even bike rentals are available for easy city exploration.
- Schoenhouse Apartments – my recommendation for travelers who wish to stay in a self-catering apartment hotel in Prenzlauer Berg. Choose from different types of rooms, all of them being bright, tidy, and spacious.
Budget (up to €100)
- Pension Absolut Berlin – Pension Absolut is a good solution for people who wish to stay in an unconventional setting, as the building is actually a renovated 19th-century factory building. The rooms are cozy and perfect for a good night’s sleep.
- Pfefferbett Hostel – another good option for travelers on a tight budget, this hostel is located in an old 19th-century brewery. The rooms are clean and nice, and you can relax on the terrace!
3. Kreuzberg – where to stay in Berlin for nightlife
If you’re wondering where to stay for young adults and nightlife, Kreuzberg is the best Berlin area! This is where I chose to live and I could not have loved it more!
For all the travelers who prefer partying, nightclubs, and dancing, the best area in Berlin is the bohemian Kreuzberg! This area is also known as “Xberg,” boasting clubs, hipster restaurants, and beautiful street art, and you will soon realize that people here rarely sleep!
If you decide to stay here, you must try as many restaurants as you can as many ethnic communities live here, each with its own fantastic cuisine, so you will get to taste the real deal!
Kreuzberg is the alternative Berlin that you should check out. Any day of exploring the neighborhood should include visiting the Oranienstrasse, Checkpoint Charlie, and the nearby Holocaust memorial.
Luxury (€150 and up)
- Orania.Berlin – a stunning 5-star hotel in Berlin, Kreuzberg, located in a historic building famous for hosting artists. Rooms are gorgeous, some with a great view of Oranienplatz; enjoy the onsite restaurant, music, and cultural events!
- Precise Tale Berlin Potsdamer Platz – the ultimate luxury destination in Berlin with a fitness center, super spacious apartments with exquisite furnishings, including a superb breakfast.
Mid-range (from €100 to €150)
- Crowne Plaza Berlin – Potsdamer Platz – one of the nicest boutique hotels in Berlin where you can enjoy the fitness and wellness area, the onsite restaurant, and rent bikes – perfect for exploring around.
- Hotel Ludwig Van Beethoven – ideal mid-range hotel surrounded by the best bars and restaurants; excellent transportation links, clean rooms, and delicious breakfast included.
- Hotel The Yard – a super nice 4-star boutique hotel in Berlin with excellent prices; the overall design is very chic and contemporary, and the rooms are simply amazing; you’ll find many bars, shops, and restaurants in the surrounding area.
Budget (up to €100)
- ibis Berlin City Potsdamer Platz – located in central Berlin, close to the underground station. Rooms are tidy and comfortable, making it ideal for a budget stay during a city break.
- Grand Hostel Berlin Classic – This hostel is super close to public transport and has great budget-friendly facilities; you can rent bikes right from them, and the staff is super friendly!
4. Friedrichshain – where to stay in Berlin on a budget
Friedrichshain is a magical place where you will encounter street musicians, young energy, and a ton of parties! It’s another party hub in the city; I highly recommend it, especially for budget travelers who want to be in the center of the action.
This amazing neighborhood is a mix of old and new, calm and energetic, and the perfect place to meet diverse people who like to dance and make friends.
Warschauer Strasse is right in the center of this neighborhood, and it is surrounded by both cool bars and old buildings.
Here, you will also find the East Side Gallery, an open-air gallery that is the largest remaining part of the Berlin Wall!
Friedrichshain is also home to many of Berlin’s techno clubs, so if you fancy a boogie, this is the area for you!
Luxury (€140 and up)
- Hotel Indigo Berlin – one of the coolest hotels in Berlin located right on the banks of the river Spree! Facilities are very modern, and you’ll undoubtedly appreciate the common areas, the fitness center, and the delicious breakfast.
- Numa I Kater Apartments – modern and stylish apartment that looks as if it came from an architecture magazine. Multiple room types are available, from single to family.
Mid-range (from €100 to €140)
- Holiday Inn Berlin City East Side – this Holiday Inn is right near the East Side Gallery and will welcome you with clean, cozy rooms and good amenities; the seating area is great whenever you want to relax after a day of sightseeing.
- Schulz Hotel Berlin Wall at the East Side Gallery – legendary hotel situated just next to the East Side Gallery; a guest kitchen and youth lounge is available, making it suitable for longer stays on a budget
Budget (up to €100)
- Kiez Hostel Berlin – if you want a hostel designed explicitly for party lovers, search no more! This cozy place has modern rooms, laundry facilities, and even free city tours.
- The Niu Hide – a bit further from the center of Friedrichshain, this amazingly modern hotel has great budget-friendly rooms; the Alexanderplatz Square is 9 minutes by tram, and an onsite restaurant with international cuisine is available too.
5. Neukölln – most international area in Berlin
Neukölln, also known as “Little Istanbul,” is very popular among young people and one of the best neighborhoods in Berlin if you don’t want to be right in the center.
The nickname is due to the many Turkish people living there and, of course, the amazing Turkish bars and restaurants you can find on each street!
In this neighborhood, you can enjoy a coffee or a beer by the canal at Westerstrasse or Maybachufer and enjoy the view and relaxed atmosphere.
You will also find many art galleries, bars, and funky restaurants here, perfect to end the day with an unforgettable meal or drink!
At night, there are many parties and clubs where you can go to feel the real spirit of Berlin.
Neukölln is also an excellent choice for budget travelers because you will find many good hotels here, but not an extensive variety of luxury hotels.
NOTE: if you want to stay in Neukölln, I advise you to book your rooms in advance, as there aren’t many options here.
Luxury (€150 and up)
- Estrel Berlin – the only luxury hotel I could find in this area that is part of a large convention and entertainment center where live shows happen frequently! One of the best things about this luxury hotel is a direct bus link to Berlin Airport.
Mid-range (from €100 to €150)
- M-Pire Hotel Berlin – one of the best 3-star hotels in Berlin with great prices; daily breakfast with lots of options, very simple and cozy rooms, and private parking on-site.
Budget (up to €100)
- Hüttenpalast – a super cute budget option with direct metro access, beautiful common areas, and high-quality food; authentic stay in a caravan or cabins
6. Charlottenburg-Wilmersdorf – for families
Charlottenburg-Wilmersdorf is one of the best choices for a family exploring West Berlin with kids. Besides being full of family-friendly hotels, this is one of the most luxurious areas of Berlin.
Here you can find many great restaurants and coffee places, especially around Savignyplatz.
Some beautiful places to visit in this West Berlin neighborhood are Charlottenburg Palace (the attraction for which this neighborhood is named), Lake Lietzensee, and, of course, Kurfürstendamm – the famous shopping street in Berlin full of luxury and high-end designer stores.
Charlottenburg Palace was once briefly held as Napoleon’s headquarters and place of residence!
A short walk in this neighborhood will instantly teleport you back to Berlin’s times of old because of the historical buildings, old theaters, and gorgeous facades that are well-preserved.
Charlottenburg-Wilmersdorf is rich in small parks where children can safely play (don’t miss out on the Schlossgarten Charlottenburg!)
Luxury (€150 and up)
- Louisa’s Place – located on Charlottenburg’s shopping street, all the rooms are very spacious with a private garden outside for the kids to play; enjoy the great onsite restaurant that serves many incredible dishes
- Schlosshotel Berlin – second luxury recommendation initially designed by the fashion celebrity Patrick Hellmann; featuring an indoor pool, stunning decorations, and lovely staff that will answer any possible request
Mid-range (from €90 to €150)
- About:Berlin Hotel – an original and unique hotel in West Berlin with great prices! They serve a breakfast buffet, the rooms are very simple and cozy, and the closest metro station is just 350 meters away.
- Hotel Brandies an der Messe – meticulously decorated with Art Nouveau details, this historic hotel is only 1 minute from the subway station; all rooms are tidy, nicely decorated, and include a minibar and a safe.
Budget (up to €90)
- Max Brown Hotel Ku’damm – if you want to be near the subway station and Tiergarten park, you should consider Max Brown Hotel; it offers free Wi-Fi, a daily buffet breakfast, and even free parking spaces on site.
| 👑 Luxury price: | €200 |
| 💵 Mid-range: | €130 |
| 🛏️ Budget: | €70 |
| 📍 Best neighborhood: | Mitte |
| 🛎️ Best luxury hotel: | Hotel Adlon Kempinski Berlin |
| 🧳 Mid-range hotel: | Grimm’s Hotel am Potsdamer Platz |
| 👛 Best budget hotel: | Motel One Berlin-Alexanderplatz |
BONUS: Airport hotels in Berlin
Getting a taxi or a shuttle bus to the airport in such a big city as Berlin can be stressful, especially if you go during peak hours!
If you want to travel as hassle-free as possible or simply have a layover in the city, you’ll want to stay near the newly-opened Brandenburg Airport.
Below, I recommend hotels for every budget located at the airport or within a short drive. The price ranges from €80 to €150 per night for 2 people.
NOTE: Berlin Tegel Airport and Berlin Schönefeld Airport are no longer operating. The only airport in the city is now the Brandenburg Airport.
Luxury:
- Van Der Valk Hotel – ultimate luxury treatment 3.5 km from the airport, featuring a swimming pool, spa and wellness center, and an international restaurant
- Adapt Apartments Berlin – fully equipped apartment with free parking in a newly renovated building, suitable for no more than 2 guests; 4.6km from the airport
- Steigenberger Airport Hotel Berlin – luxury hotel right at the airport with spacious rooms, ensuite bathrooms, and a fitness center; also serving continental or buffet breakfast
Mid-range:
- InterCityHotel Berlin Airport – this excellent hotel at the airport offers easy access to terminals 1 and 2 and has business and superior rooms at a great price; daily breakfast and snack machines available
- Hotel Berlin Köpenick by Leonardo Hotels – 7 km from the airport, on-site parking, modern rooms, and excellent transportation links both to the airport and the town center
- Best Western Premier Airporthotel Fontane BERlin – good value for money hotel near the airport with a wellness and spa center, family rooms, and air conditioning
Budget:
- Moxy Berlin Airport – also located at the airport, Moxy hotel has free Wi-Fi, comfortable rooms with flat-screen TV, and can sleep up to 4 people in one room
- LOGINN Hotel Berlin Airport – super accommodating staff, delicious (free!) breakfast, and ideal location within walking distance from the airport
- Premier Inn Berlin Airport – just 1.2 km from the airport, Premier Inn Berlin Airport Hotel has the best value for money of all hotels nearby, and they also have a restaurant on-site
FAQs about where to stay in Berlin
📍What is the best area to stay in Berlin?
The best area for travelers in Berlin is by far Mitte, the city center, near Brandenburg Gate. I recommend Regent – Berlin if you want a premium stay or Mercure Hotel & Residenz Berlin for the best value for money in town.
🌤️ What are the best months to travel to Berlin?
You should visit Berlin between May and mid-September. The weather is perfect for exploring the city, its parks, and landmarks. However, be prepared to spend a little more on your hotel room.
👪 What is the best area in Berlin for families?
The best place in Berlin to consider as a family is Charlottenburg. It’s peaceful and walkable, and many attractions and parks are located here
🎉 What is the best area in Berlin for nightlife?
The best place in Berlin to enjoy the nightlife is Kreuzberg, with lots happening around, like bars, clubs, and more.
🎄 Where is the best place to stay in Berlin for Christmas Markets?
Charlottenburg is the best area to stay for easy access to some of the most authentic Christmas markets in the city!
🥳 Where should I stay in Berlin for a stag do?
The most popular areas for a stag do are Prenzlauer Berg, Mitte, and Friedrichshain-Kreuzberg. These are all super central and close to all the best bars and clubs in the city!
✖️ Where should I not stay in Berlin?
Be cautious and avoid staying in or around Kottbusser Tor because it has a bad reputation for crime and drug use.v
⛄ What is the best area to stay in Berlin during winter?
Stay near Charlottenburg for the Christmas spirit, especially if you like Christmas Markets. Anywhere in the city center (around Mitte) is cozy in the winter, and you can enjoy warm beverages on a cold Berlin day!
Conclusion
That’s it! This was my Berlin neighborhood guide that should answer all your questions about where to stay in Berlin.
I have carefully selected the best hotels for each neighborhood, from Mitte to Prenzlauer Berg and more. I divided them into sections based on each budget type: luxury, middle, and tight.
- Hotel Adlon Kempinski Berlin – right in central Berlin, this luxurious hotel has everything you need to feel at home with premium details
- Grimm’s Hotel am Potsdamer Platz – affordable prices, stunning facilities, and strategic location are what describe this property best
I am sure you will find something that fits your preferences in this article! Definitely book in advance if you’re planning a visit to Berlin, in 2022 alone there were over 10 million visitors (!!!) so get that hotel booked!
As always, if you have any questions, feel free to leave them in the comments section! I enjoy receiving questions from my readers!
Yulia
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Hi Yulia, could you let me know where should I stay in Berlin for the first time?
Hi!
For a first time visitor I’d say Mitte is the place to be! You can read more about it at point 1. in this article!
Hey, thank you very much for this blog. Berlin is a beautiful place for also the students who want to study in that city. There are lots of accommodation options in the student budget.
Indeed, and a very lively city for young people too!
My wife and I loved Berlin, Thank you for this useful blog post!
I hear so many good things about Berlin these days. Believe it or not, I was there before the Wall came down. Back then it was a dreary place, and the locals were not particularly friendly. I’d love to go back now and experience a vibrant city. Great guide.
Wow, no way!
Yes, you should definitely go back and see how it changed! 🙂
I’m always surprised that one suburb in Berlin is regularly passed over: Schöneberg. When I moved to Berlin, before the wall came down, it was like this, and it still seems today. Yet Schöneberg is super centrally located, you can easily walk to parts of Wilmersdorf, Charlottenburg, and Kreuzberg. There are great Kiez areas, like around Winterfeldplatz, public transport in all directions is near perfect, and you have access to large green spaces. What else could you want? I enjoyed my 5+ years near Rathaus Schöneberg.