Is Berlin Expensive?

Berlin Budget Guide: What to Expect and How to Save Money

Berlin is Germany’s lively capital city, made popular by its vibrant art scene, culture and significant history. The city tells a story through the partial remains of the Berlin Wall and the Holocaust Memorial. Berlin is also known for being relatively inexpensive compared to other major European capital cities, but let’s take a closer look at what you can expect to pay for transport, accommodation and attractions:

A Breakdown of Average Travel Costs in Berlin

How Much Do Things Cost in Berlin

Where to Stay in Berlin on a Budget

You can find all kinds of accommodation in Berlin, from hostels and B&Bs to budget-friendly and luxury hotels, so there is something to suit every type of budget. Berlin also has numerous affordable neighbourhoods and boroughs, all of which have their own fair share of things to do and see. The cheapest places to stay in Berlin include:

• Budget-Friendly Hotels: You can find budget hotels across Berlin, most of which are high-quality and conveniently located.
• Lichtenberg: Lichtenberg has a reputation for being one of the cheapest boroughs in the city, with many people choosing to relocate or move there. Lichtenberg has many things to do, including cultural, historical and entertaining attractions.
• Airport Hotels: Berlin’s main airport has many airport hotels that appeal to arriving or departing travellers. Airport hotels tend to be popular for those who don’t want to venture too far into central Berlin, such as business travellers. Airport hotels also tend to be cheaper than inner-city hotels.
• Boutique Hotels: Boutique hotels are usually cheaper than regular hotels, as they are normally smaller in size and have a more personal or intimate feel and services.

The Best Options for Finding Affordable Accommodation in Berlin

Berlin’s most popular boroughs include the central Mitte borough, which features some of the city’s most popular attractions. Charlottenburg, for example, features high-end and upscale architecture and lively shopping districts. Meanwhile, Schöneberg appeals for its quirky and diverse vibe. While these places are popular, they do tend to be expensive. Here’s a list of some of Berlin’s most affordable neighbourhoods and boroughs:

• Reinickendorf: A leafy, historical neighbourhood in West Berlin known for its lake, nature trails, reserves, and opulent architecture. It has a more tranquil feel than central Berlin boroughs.
• Spandau: Another more peaceful district, made popular by its Old Town, parks, natural attractions and museums, namely the Military History Museum.

What to Expect from Berlin and How to Book a Cheap Room

Don’t be deterred by Berlin’s large size and urban feel, as it has its fair share of affordable hotels and accommodations. Sticking to a budget doesn’t mean you have to compromise on quality. You can find many low-cost yet high-quality hotels and accommodation options across the city, no matter the time of year or amount of tourists. Most hotels in Berlin are modern and convenient, with comprehensive facilities and clean spaces.

Here are our tips and tricks on how to find the best deals on accommodation and what to consider when booking:

• Travel at different times of the year: Berlin sees its highest tourist footfall during the summer months of June-August. It’s a busy time in the city and prices tend to increase. Travelling during the autumn or winter seasons is a good way to keep costs low, but still experience everything Berlin has to offer.
• Book in advance: An important thing to remember when booking any type of accommodation is to book in advance. This can help you secure your accommodation at a lower price. The closer it gets to your trip or the peak tourist season, the more likely it is that hotels will sell out or increase their rates. Try to book around 2-3 months before your trip to Berlin for the best deals.
• Subscribe to newsletters: The Enjoy Travel newsletter provides you with regular updates and deals on accommodation. Subscribing to newsletters or other platforms is a great way to keep yourself informed.

How to Get Around Berlin Easily and Cheaply

Berlin is a very walkable city, with attractions, restaurants and shops within walking distance from each other. It also has some of the best and most efficient public transport options in Europe, with an underground, tram and bus system, as well as a national railway. Here are some tips on how best to get around the city:

• Walk: Opt to explore the city on foot for an environmentally friendly and free way of getting around. Most areas of Berlin are within walking distance of shops, bars, restaurants and basic amenities.
• Take the U-Bahn: Berlin’s subway system is extremely efficient and relied upon by locals and tourists to get around the city quickly and cheaply. Tickets are also reasonably priced, so you can get around without spending a fortune.

While driving around Berlin may not be the preferred method of transportation, why not try hiring a car to explore areas that may not be covered by public transport, or for road trips around Germany? You can pick up your car from Berlin’s Brandenburg Airport or Schönefeld Airport, as well as East Railway Station and many of Berlin’s central boroughs and districts.

How to Eat Well in Berlin Without Spending a Fortune

Berlin is rife with restaurants selling local delicacies, German cuisine and international cuisines, as well as street food stalls and markets selling small plates of traditional German food. To eat well without going over budget, here are a few tips:

• Opt for cheap restaurants: The price of meals in an inexpensive restaurant in Berlin is around €10 per person. This is a good way to keep costs low and reasonable if you plan to eat out every day. Inexpensive doesn’t mean bad quality!
• Stick to food stalls: You’ll find street food stalls across the city, which tend to serve food that is a little less expensive than a full sit-down restaurant meal. Food from market stalls is varied and filling, so although it may be small, you’ll certainly satisfy your hunger.

Our Top Picks for Free and Cheap Activities in Berlin

Many of Berlin’s main attractions are free or affordable, so let’s take a look at some of our top suggestions:

• Jewish Museum: If you want to find out more information about Germany’s Jewish population and its history, this is the place for you. Entry to certain areas of the Jewish Museum is free, with other parts costing around €10.
• East Side Gallery: An open-air graffiti and art gallery in Berlin, spanning the remaining sections of the Berlin Wall, showcasing the city’s main art culture. You don’t need to pay anything to see this iconic attraction.

The Best Places to Find Live Music, Shows and Events in Berlin

Let’s take a look at some of the best places to see top performances, shows and concerts in Berlin:

• Mercedes Benz Arena: With a capacity of 17,000, this is one of the top places in the city to see a range of artists, acts and performances.
• Berliner Philharmonie: A popular concert hall, where you can see a variety of classical and instrumental music performances and shows. This hall is also home to the Berlin Philharmonic Orchestra, who are famous for their stunning performances and classical music concerts.
• Olympiastadion: Berlin’s main sporting arena, with a capacity of over 70,000 revellers. Here, you can watch Germany’s national football team play, as well as local teams and events.

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Tourist Board Info For Berlin