Berlin is definitely a big city, with neighbourhoods spread out and each offering its own unique vibe. I’m sure you’ve probably landed on this article because you’re planning a trip to Berlin and have absolutely no idea where to stay!
Whether you’re fascinated by Cold War history, intrigued by street art, or simply want to soak up the local culture, Berlin has something for everyone and the perfect neighbourhood for every type of traveller. During my stay in the city, I found that each area had its own personality, depending on the type of traveller you are.
Berlin also has an excellent public transport system, whether by train, tram, or bus, making it easy to get around no matter where you stay. Personally, I stayed in Mitte on my last trip, which was perfect for a first-time visitor. It’s close to major attractions like the Brandenburg Gate, Museum Island, and Checkpoint Charlie. If you’re planning your first trip to Berlin, here’s a guide on the best area to stay in Berlin for first-timers, based on my personal travels to Berlin!
⏰ Short on time?
👉 Where to Stay in Berlin
Budget: Meininger Hotel Berlin Mitte
Mid-Range: Park Inn by Radisson Berlin Alexanderplatz
Luxury: Berlin Marriott Hotel
👉 Things to Do in Berlin
– Private Yacht Elegance Berlin Sightseeing Tour on Electric Yacht
– Small-Group 3-Hour East Berlin Food Walking Tour
– Sachsenhausen Concentration Camp Tour from Berlin
– Half-Day Potsdam Sightseeing Tour Including Guided Sanssouci Palace Visit
👉 Must See Sights in Berlin
– Brandenburg Gate
– Berlin Wall Memorial
– Reichstag Building
– Museum Island
– Charlottenburg Palace
👉 Best Time to Visit Berlin
– April to May: Mild weather, fewer crowds, ideal for sightseeing.
– December to February: Winter wonderland with Christmas markets and a festive atmosphere.
Disclaimer: Please note that some of the links in this article may be affiliate links. This means that, at no extra cost to you, I may earn a small commission if you click on or make a purchase through these links.
Mitte - Best Area to Stay in Berlin for First Time Visitors
If it’s your first time in Berlin, Mitte is hands down the best area to stay. Located right in the heart of the city, it offers easy access to some of Berlin’s most famous landmarks, including the Berlin Wall Memorial, Brandenburg Gate, Berlin Cathedral, and Museum Island. Mitte is ideal for first-time visitors who want to explore Berlin’s rich history and iconic sights, which you’ll want to see on your first trip. From Mitte, you can walk to most places or catch a train to more distant spots.
Best for: First-timers, sightseeing, history lovers, families
Nightlife: There are bars and restaurants, but it’s more relaxed compared to party districts like Kreuzberg.
Sights to See: Brandenburg Gate, Berlin Wall Memorial, Berlin Cathedral, Checkpoint Charlie, Museum Island, Reichstag Building, Victory Column
Where to Stay in Mitte
Budget: Meininger Hotel Berlin Mitte – Close to train stations and within walking distance of many landmarks.
Mid-range: Park Inn by Radisson Berlin Alexanderplatz – Offers great views of Museum Island and Brandenburg Gate.
Luxury: Berlin Marriott Hotel – Where I stayed! Centrally located, close to major sights like the Brandenburg Gate and Checkpoint Charlie.
Where did I stay in Mitte?
👉 Watch my hotel stay at the Marriott in Mitte, Berlin.
Kreuzberg - The Coolest District in Berlin
Kreuzberg is one of the coolest neighbourhoods in Berlin, known for its artistic vibe, alternative culture, and vibrant nightlife. This area was part of West Berlin during the Cold War and today it’s a hotspot for street art, quirky cafes, and independent galleries. If you’re the kind of traveller who enjoys edgy urban areas, Kreuzberg is perfect for you.
Best for: Young travellers, nightlife, art lovers, budget travellers
Nightlife: Bustling with bars, clubs, and live music venues. It’s one of the best areas in Berlin for nightlife.
Sights to See: East Side Gallery, Berlin Wall, Landwehrkanal, local street art
👉 Read Next: Visiting the Berlin East Side Gallery Guide
Where to Stay in Kreuzberg
Budget: Hotel Transit – A great budget option close to train stations and the East Side Gallery.
Mid-range: The Cat’s Pajamas Hostel – Located near the vibrant streets of Kreuzberg with easy access to Checkpoint Charlie.
Luxury: Orania.Berlin – Stylish luxury hotel with cultural performances and gourmet dining.
Friedrichshain - Berlin's Party Hub
If you’re coming to Berlin to experience its famous nightlife, Friedrichshain is where you want to be. This area is known for its party scene, especially around RAW-Gelände, a creative hub with clubs, bars, and cultural spaces. Friedrichshain is also home to the East Side Gallery, a preserved section of the Berlin Wall covered in colourful murals.
Best for: Nightlife, young travellers, party-goers
Nightlife: Home to some of Berlin’s most iconic clubs, including the famous Berghain.
Sights to See: East Side Gallery, RAW-Gelände, local markets, street art
Where to Stay in Friedrichshain
Budget: Industriepalast Hostel Berlin – Located right near East Side Gallery and great for budget travellers.
Mid-range: Leonardo Royal Hotel Berlin Alexanderplatz – Central, with easy access to public transport and walking distance to Museum Island.
Luxury: Hotel Indigo Berlin – East Side Gallery – Perfect for travellers looking to stay close to the Berlin Wall and experience nightlife.
Charlottenburg - Upscale and Relaxed
Charlottenburg offers a more upscale, quieter alternative to Berlin’s bustling central areas. With elegant streets and beautiful parks, it’s ideal for families or those seeking a more peaceful stay. Charlottenburg is home to the beautiful Charlottenburg Palace, high-end shopping on Kurfürstendamm, and the famous Berlin Zoological Garden.
Best for: Families, luxury travelers, shopping, sightseeing
Nightlife: Quieter, but there are plenty of sophisticated restaurants and bars.
Sights to See: Charlottenburg Palace, Kurfürstendamm, Victory Column, Berlin Zoological Garden
Where to Stay in Charlottenburg
Budget: Ibis Berlin Messe – Affordable option with easy access to train stations.
Mid-range: Hampton by Hilton Berlin City West – Located close to Charlottenburg Palace and shopping areas.
Luxury: Waldorf Astoria Berlin – One of the most luxurious stays in Berlin, offering incredible views and proximity to major landmarks.
Prenzlauer Berg - Trendy and Family-Friendly
Prenzlauer Berg is one of Berlin’s trendiest neighbourhoods, full of cute cafes, organic markets, and tree-lined streets. It’s a bit quieter than areas like Kreuzberg, making it great for families or those looking for a more laid-back stay. The area is famous for its flea markets, particularly at Mauerpark, and for being a haven for young families and professionals.
Best for: Families, couples, foodies, laid-back travellers
Nightlife: There are plenty of cozy bars and cafes, but the nightlife is more relaxed here.
Sights to See: Mauerpark, Kollwitzplatz, local flea markets, Berlin Wall Memorial
Where to Stay in Prenzlauer Berg
Budget: Pfefferbett Hostel – A modern and stylish hostel near Mauerpark.
Mid-range: Hotel Oderberger – Located in a historic building with beautiful, spacious rooms.
Luxury: Ackselhaus & Blue Home – Boutique luxury stay in the heart of Prenzlauer Berg.
FAQ About Staying in Berlin
Which area of Berlin is best to stay in?
For first-time visitors, Mitte is the best area to stay in because it’s centrally located and close to many of the city’s main sights, like the Berlin Wall Memorial, Brandenburg Gate, and Museum Island.
Where to avoid staying in Berlin?
Avoid staying too far from the city centre in neighbourhoods on the outskirts, as they may be less convenient for sightseeing and accessing public transportation.
How far is Mitte from Berlin city centre?
Mitte is the city centre of Berlin and is home to many key landmarks, including the Brandenburg Gate, Checkpoint Charlie, and Berlin Cathedral.
Can you do Berlin in one day?
You can visit some major landmarks in one day, such as the Berlin Wall, Brandenburg Gate, and Museum Island, but ideally, you’d spend at least 2-3 days to fully explore the city.
Add these activities to your Berlin trip!
📷 Cruise Berlin in style aboard a private yacht!: Private Yacht Elegance Berlin Sightseeing Tour on Electric Yacht
🍽️ Savor the flavors of East Berlin! Small-Group 3-Hour East Berlin Food Walking Tour
🕊️ Walk through history at Sachsenhausen Sachsenhausen Concentration Camp Tour from Berlin
🏰 Explore the splendor of Potsdam! Half-Day Potsdam Sightseeing Tour Including Guided Sanssouci Palace Visit
Is Berlin a walkable city?
Yes, Berlin is a walkable city, particularly in areas like Mitte, but you might want to use public transport for longer distances between neighbourhoods.
What is the most famous thing about Berlin?
Berlin is most famous for its role in World War II and the Cold War, with iconic landmarks like the Berlin Wall, Brandenburg Gate, and Checkpoint Charlie.
What to see first in Berlin?
Start your visit at the Brandenburg Gate, then explore Museum Island and the Berlin Wall Memorial for a mix of Berlin’s history and culture.
What to do in Berlin on Sunday?
Sundays in Berlin are perfect for visiting flea markets like Mauerpark, exploring museums on Museum Island, or having brunch in one of Prenzlauer Berg’s cafes.
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