What it feels like living in Berlin, as experienced by locals

Berlin counts several different districts with radically different atmospheres. That is maybe what I like the most here; the possibility to choose an area depending on how you want to be living in Berlin. To that purpose, you want to get a rough idea of the “vibe”, as experienced by locals.

This guide is a combination of impressions & descriptions based on real-life, every day life stuff a person living there would say. It is informed by my own experience, my friends’ & colleagues’, as well as local online groups. It answers the question: what does it feel like living in that area of Berlin and who should consider it?

Feel free to ask questions in the comments section. I answer each personally. We also recommend our guide to costs of living in Berlin.

Bastien – Settle in Berlin

Keep in mind that within each Bezirk, there are many Kiez (neighborhoods) that can be extremely different from one another.

Living in Berlin – overview of districts by vibe, affordability and ease of commuting

Here’s the updated table including Wilmersdorf, Spandau, Pankow, and Reinickendorf:

• Affordability: € (Affordable) to €€€€ (Expensive)
• Ease of Commuting: ⭐ (Limited access) to ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (Excellent connections)
• Public Transport Impact: U-Bahn (U) and S-Bahn (S) lines included for reference

Living in Berlin Treptow-Köpenick

Treptow-Köpenick serves as Berlin’s “green lung,” boasting vast parks, picturesque riverside vistas, and a more leisurely pace of life. While it’s situated further from the city center, the abundance of nature and opportunities for outdoor pursuits make it a worthwhile compromise for many.


Alt-Treptow is a hidden gem, offering a chill and safe environment, though some might find it boring. It provides a suburban feel within the city. Köpenick on the other side is on the most remote areas in Berlin, poorly connected via public transportation options.

1. Vibe: Encompasses a mix of neighborhoody, hipster-influenced, and family-friendly areas.
2. Areas of Interest: Notable areas include Bausmschulenweg, Alt-Treptow, Treptow Park, and Köpenick.
3. Affordability: Housing prices tend to be lower compared to the more central districts of Berlin.
4. Who Should Consider: Treptow-Köpenick caters to individuals who relish outdoor activities, appreciate green spaces, and prefer a more provincial ambiance.

Living in Berlin Pankow

Pankow is a district of contrasts, offering a diverse range of living experiences. Pankow is a friendly and safe district located in the northeast of Berlin. It is known for its green spaces, small houses, and family-friendly atmosphere. The area is well-connected by public transportation, particularly the S-Bahn, making it easy to reach Berlin-Mitte and other parts of the city. Pankow is also home to various cultural gems, tranquil parks, and historical sites, offering a mix of urban and suburban living.From the trendy, bustling streets of Prenzlauer Berg to the quieter, greener corners, Pankow provides a sense of community and calm that’s rare so close to the city center. It is nice and quiet, but living in Pankow might feel out of the way if one is used to the southern parts of Berlin.

• Vibe: A diverse mix! Prenzlauer Berg (once part of Pankow) is gentrified and family-friendly. But there are also quieter, more residential areas that offer a more relaxed pace of life.
• Areas of interest: Parks, cafes, and local shops abound. Explore the beautiful Volkspark Prenzlauer Berg, enjoy the village vibe of Weissensee (at lower prices than Prenzlauer Berg) or visit the many family friendly locations.
• Affordability: Varies greatly. Prenzlauer Berg is expensive, but other parts of Pankow are more affordable. Consider venturing further out for more budget-friendly options.
• Who should consider: This district appeals to families, people looking for a quieter life, but still want good connections to the center. It’s also a good option for those seeking a balance between urban amenities and green spaces.

Living in Berlin Lichtenberg

Lichtenberg offers a glimpse into a more authentic and less polished side of Berlin. It’s a district with a strong sense of community, a growing arts scene, and a chance to experience Berlin without the overwhelming tourist presence. The areas of Lichtenberg that border Friedrichshain offer good transport options and relative affordability and are off the radar for most foreigners. Despite its bad reputation, there are signs of change that include artist studios and a funky canteen at the industrial HB55.

• Vibe: More industrial and less gentrified than many other districts. Up-and-coming, but still retaining some of its rough edges.
• Areas of interest: The Vietnamese Dong Xuan Center, the Rummelsburg riverside developments and Karlshorst. Explore diverse cultural offerings, discover unique architectural gems, and enjoy the evolving landscape of the district.
• Affordability: One of the more affordable districts in Berlin.
• Who should consider: Lichtenberg is well-suited for those seeking affordable rents and a less touristy environment. If you appreciate a sense of community and are interested in witnessing a district in transition, Lichtenberg might be a good choice.

Living in Berlin Moabit

. Moabit is considered a hidden gem with some of the lowest rents inside the Ringbahn. It is very green and quiet, with residents who are known to be nice, friendly, and down to earth. Moabit is pretty central and boasts good food options and transport links. The neighborhood has a diverse community with many migrants, especially north of Turmstraße. Moabit is not considered hype or classy, which makes it unique. While it is a working-class area, it is also considered safe. The area around Turmstrasse was previously sketchy but has changed in the past few years. Overall, Moabit has shaken off its rough reputation from the 90s/2000s and is now deeply underrated.

• Vibe: Diverse and urban, yet less hyped and overrun than many other central districts.
• Areas of interest: Parks and good transport links make it a convenient place to live. Explore Fritz Schloß Park, take advantage of the central location, and discover the neighborhood’s hidden culinary treasures.
• Affordability: Generally more affordable than many other central locations.
• Who should consider: Moabit is an excellent option for those who desire a central location without the hefty price tag. If you value diversity, community, and a down-to-earth atmosphere, Moabit could be the perfect fit.

Living in Berlin Reinickendorf

Reinickendorf presents a suburban haven within the city limits of Berlin. It’s known for its expansive green spaces, quiet, residential streets, and a strong sense of community.

Reinickendorf, located in northwest Berlin, offers a diverse living experience with a mix of urban convenience and rural tranquility. Tegel is pretty basic, but it feels great. There are no annoying tourists and hipsters, and it has beautiful lakes and scenery. Reinickendorf has a cared-for, almost village-like atmosphere in contrast to the big city but it does not have great nightlife or a lot of entertainment. It is particularly popular with commuters who want to work in the city but live in peace. Reinickendorf feels like living in a suburban area but is still very well connected.

• Vibe: Characterized by its suburban atmosphere, offering a cozy, green, and safe environment.
• Areas of interest: well-connected to the city center, with a 20-minute S-Bahn ride to Mitte.
• Affordability: Affordability information not specified in the provided sources.
• Who should consider: Reinickendorf appeals to individuals who appreciate suburban surroundings, prioritize proximity to nature, and desire a tranquil and secure living environment.

Living in Berlin Marzahn-Hellersdorf

Marzahn-Hellersdorf is distinguished by its spacious layout and a diverse array of residential buildings. It provides residents with affordable housing options and a more local, less touristy atmosphere. Marzahn-Hellersdorf is known for its mix of urban and rural landscapes. The district is characterized by its high-rise apartment buildings, particularly in Marzahn, which is home to the largest housing estate of the former GDR. However, there are also areas with single-family houses and plenty of green spaces, offering a contrast to the more densely populated parts of the district.

• Vibe: Offers a more local and less touristy ambiance compared to the central districts of Berlin.
• Areas of interest: Gardens of the world, the biggest illusion in the world, a charming village.
• Affordability: Known for its affordable housing options.
• Who should consider: Marzahn-Hellersdorf appeals to individuals seeking budget-friendly housing and a quieter living environment removed from the bustling tourist areas of the city.

Living in Berlin Mitte :

Imagine stepping out your door and being immediately immersed in Berlin’s rich history. From the iconic Brandenburg Gate to Museum Island, Mitte is the undisputed heart of the city, where the past and present are in constant conversation. Living here means being in the epicenter of activity, with a vibrant, international atmosphere. Expect a fast-paced environment where everything is within reach, but be prepared to share it with tourists and locals alike.

Conveniently connected to all parts of the city, Mitte is literaly at the center of the city. The area around Tiergarten offers a wide choices of residential areas close to major shopping avenues like Kudamm. It also hosts countless start-ups along the Rosenthalerstr. (Silicon Alley) that made the city a prime location for entrepreneurship. The clubs and bars around Oranienburger. and Friedrichstr. offer a slightly more poshy experience than in the rest of the city. Cost of living is also higher.

• Vibe: Super central and very international. Touristy in key areas, but also home to significant historical and political landmarks. Expect a constant buzz and a diverse mix of people.
• Areas of interest: Museum Island, Brandenburg Gate, and the Regierungsviertel (government quarter). Explore world-class museums, stroll along Unter den Linden, or grab lunch near the Reichstag. Also, lots of shopping and restaurants to choose from.
• Affordability: Can be pricey, especially in the most sought-after locations. Expect to pay a premium for the central location and historical significance.
• Who should consider: Ideal for those who thrive in the heart of the action and appreciate being close to major attractions and excellent transport links. If you don’t mind crowds and are willing to pay more for the convenience and prestige of living in the center, Mitte could be a great fit.
• Move there if : You are going to work with the hot-shots of the start-up scene in Berlin and you don’t feel too comfortable with the alternative atmosphere of some other districts.

Living in Berlin Friedrichshain

Cut in half by the very long Frankfurter Allee, Friedrichshain offers a very cosy atmosphere with little streets flooded with local bars, cafes, friseurs and fashion-designer shops. This district was once famous for its path-ways covered with dog-poo but like many places in Berlin, gentrification had radically changed the district to a much cleaner tone. Its inhabitants  are often expats who likes the southern part of the area around Simon-Dachstr. Many young couples have also moved around Samariterviertel where kinder-gardens are not rare at all. Friedrichshain is also home to many good clubs along Revealerstr. and to the mighty Berghain/Panorama Bar.

This neighborhood is characterized by its fleamarkets, cafes, Asian restaurants, clubs, and green areas. While it’s undergoing gentrification, it’s not as advanced as Mitte or Prenzlauer Berg…. Some find that it smells like a public toilet. The areas along Revaler Straße and Simon Dach Straße have become a party mile, which may be less attractive to residents

Move there if : You like a cosy village life at day and a wild night life after dark and you can afford the increasingly expensive rents.

Living in Berlin Kreuzberg

Prepare for a sensory explosion! Kreuzberg throbs with energy, creativity, and a fiercely independent spirit. This is where you’ll discover hidden bars, vibrant street art, and a community that passionately embraces diversity and self-expression.

Historically, the alternative district and the biggest Turkish city outside of Turkey, it has since gone under waves of gentrifications leaving areas like Bergmanstr. with more pricey neighborhoods since the fall of the Wall. The area around Görlitzer Park is one of my favorite in Berlin, especially in the summer where beers and grills are a must-do along the Landwehrkanal .  You can however find a very different atmosphere around the Jewish museum or the world-wide famous Checkpoint Charlie. It is also very hard to find a flat there. The area around Kotbusser Tor is still very nicely Turkish though, like the weekly market on Paul-Lincker Ufer. It is a very central area : Mitte, Friedrichshain and Neukölln are just around the corner.

To live in Kreuzberg, it is important to be street smart, as there is a visible population of street homeless people and hard drug use

• Vibe: Very lively, alternative, and multicultural. A renowned hub for nightlife, street art, and a youthful, energetic crowd.
• Areas of interest: East Side Gallery, Boxhagener Platz, and Bergmannstraße. Explore the iconic remnants of the Berlin Wall, immerse yourself in the local markets, and experience the district’s thriving culinary scene. Also, find many bars, clubs, and international food options.
• Affordability: Can be expensive in the most popular areas, but still offers some affordable options, particularly if you venture away from the main tourist drags.
• Who should consider: Kreuzberg is perfect for young people, students, and anyone who thrives on nightlife, diversity, and a constant stream of new experiences. If you’re looking for a vibrant and unconventional atmosphere, this district might be your ideal playground.
• Move there if : Your job is in the area and you have the money and the connections to find a good flat there.

Living in Berlin Neukölln

Neukölln is a captivating melting pot of cultures and creative expression. It’s a district that wears its heart on its sleeve, with a raw, unfiltered energy that can be both exhilarating and challenging. Neukölln has a reputation as a hipster paradise or as filthy and crime-ridden, with the reality likely falling somewhere in between. However, some consider it extremely safe and a wonderfully livable place, characterized by internationalism and multiculturalism. Hermannplatz is improving with a security and cleaning program.

• Vibe: Edgy, multicultural, and constantly evolving. Known for its diverse population, vibrant nightlife, and a burgeoning arts scene.
• Areas of interest: Sonnenallee, Tempelhofer Feld, and the Landwehr Canal. Explore the bustling Arab street, enjoy the vast expanse of the former airport-turned-park, and relax by the canal. Reuterplatz has a great location.
• Affordability: Generally more affordable than other central districts, but prices are steadily rising. Take what you can get at this point.
• Who should consider: Neukölln appeals to those seeking a lively, multicultural environment with a good balance of affordability and excitement. If you appreciate diversity, are open-minded, and don’t mind a bit of grit, Neukölln might be the perfect place to call home.
• Move there if: You work in Mitte, Schöneberg or Kreuzberg and that you don’t mind an extra 10min commute for a balanced exciting-peaceful environment.

Living in Berlin Prenzlauer Berg

Very well preserved from WW2 bombings, Prenzlauer Berg offers a lot of small cute streets where cafes and restaurants are numerous. It was for long a very bohemian district where artists could create during the communist era. After the wall fell, the area gentrificated quickly to let young couples move in the beautiful flats available. It is often nick-named “Impregnated Berg” since the birth rate there is the highest in Europe ! There are kindergardens and bio-supermarkets at every corner. The area around Eberswalderstr. is a must-do for a wild night-out and the Mauerpark is one of the best places around for a sunny summer afternoon .

Move there if : You are looking for a upper-end family-friendly district with a laid-back atmosphere and nice flats.

Living in Berlin Tempelhof-Schöneberg

Tempelhof-Schöneberg provides a well-rounded blend of city life and neighborhood charm. Schöneberg, in particular, exudes a welcoming vibe, with local markets, cozy cafes, and a strong sense of community that makes you feel right at home.

Very well known for its abandoned airport and its horse race tracks, Tempelhof offers a very good option for families that would like to be living in Berlin and in a more quiet environment. It’s also very well connected to more busy Kreuzberg and central Berlin through the S2 while being a good starting point for Berlin Brandenburg Region and suburbs. It offers slightly larger apartments and houses if a baby is on the way. It can also be a good option for Students studying in Dalhem.

• Vibe: A mix of residential and commercial areas. Schöneberg offers a more relaxed, neighborhood feel, while other parts of the district have a faster pace.
• Areas of interest: Tempelhofer Feld (the expansive park on the site of the former airport), Bergmannstraße, and Winterfeldtplatz market. Enjoy outdoor activities, explore local shops, and immerse yourself in the vibrant market scene. Kleistpark is also an area of interest.
• Affordability: Varies. Some parts of Schöneberg can be pricey, but overall, it’s more affordable than Mitte or Prenzlauer Berg.
• Who should consider: This district suits those who desire a mix of city conveniences and green spaces, with a more local, community-oriented atmosphere. It’s a great option for families, couples, and anyone seeking a balanced lifestyle.
• Move there if: You need more space for you and your family. Your priority is a quiet home but you fancy a night -out once in a while.

Living in Berlin Charlottenburg :

Surely THE upper-end district in Berlin, Charlottenburg is also welcoming students of the nearby Technical University. The area was well preserved of WW2 bombings and many buildings are still showing proud 19th century style. Charlottenburg is also known to be the district where stars come to live in. It’s not rare to bump into celebrities at Savigny-Platz during a hot summer evening. The  Charlottenburg castle and its gardens are not to be missed , same for the memorial church of Kaiser-Wilhelm. It was for a long time the most expensive district for accommodation but is now caught up by Prenzlauer Berg and some parts of Kreuzberg.

Charlottenburg exudes an air of elegance and old-world charm. Think of wide boulevards, classic architecture, and a sense of refined West Berlin sophistication. It’s a bit more polished and established, offering a sophisticated living experience with a touch of grandeur.

• Vibe: More upscale and distinctly “West Berlin”. Known for its elegant buildings, high-end boutiques, and a generally more affluent atmosphere.
• Areas of interest: Kurfürstendamm (shopping), Charlottenburg Palace, and Savignyplatz. Enjoy world-class shopping, explore historical landmarks, and savor the culinary delights of the area. Mierendorffplatz also offers local charm.
• Affordability: Generally more expensive. Expect higher rents and living costs compared to other districts.
• Who should consider: Charlottenburg is ideal for those who appreciate a polished environment, enjoy upscale shopping and dining, and don’t mind paying extra for the privilege.
• Move there if: You are looking for a state of the art upper-end way of life in a quiet residential area.

Living in Berlin Wedding

From all the different waves of gentrification happening in the city, Wedding is probably one of the districts which still got a true working-class feeling. Many of the people who were pushed out of Kreuzberg or Neukölln moved there to find cheaper rents with an equal quality of life. It may not be a hip as other districts but a little crowd of artists or creative heads have moved there. Some are whispering that it might become the new Kreuzberg. A lot of turkish signs however reminds that the area still belongs to the local community. Wedding is also famous through-out the city for the club Stattbad-Wedding, which is a former swimming pool converted in a dance floor. The Humboldthain park and the Pltzensee lake should also not be missed.

Move there if: you are part of the early adopters, eager to discover and change a new district for yourself, or if you want to have a taste of original Berlin.

Living in Berlin Wilmersdorf

Located on between Mitte and Grünewald, Wilmersdorf is offering a lot of prestigious residential areas with good connections to shopping avenues.  The west part brings you to Grünewald, where you will be surprised by the size of the villas there and the quiet forest and lakes.

Wilmersdorf is an upscale, well-kept district in Berlin, known for its luxurious villas and abundant green spaces, with the Grunewald forest covering nearly half of its area. Historically significant, Wilmersdorf was developed as an affluent residential area in the late 19th century and boasts cultural attractions like Charlottenburg Palace and the Olympic Stadium. The district offers excellent amenities, including schools, hospitals, and shopping centers, and is well-connected by public transportation. Its diverse neighborhoods, such as the tranquil Schmargendorf and the lively Kurfürstendamm area, cater to various lifestyles, making Wilmersdorf a popular choice for those seeking a high-quality, peaceful living environment.

Move there if: Don’t even think about it, you don’t have the money 😉