Where to Stay in Berlin
Budget to Luxury
- May 3, 2026
- 2 Comments
The capital of Germany is probably one of the most unique cities in Germany, full of history, culture and a thriving artistic scene. Whether you’re looking for the best techno clubs or wanting to learn more about its rich history, Berlin is a must-visit! Here is where I would stay in Berlin at different budgets:
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Table of Contents
ToggleWhere to stay in Berlin, Germany for any traveller:
Berlin has an excellent public transport system, even throughout the night. Due to that, it can be convenient to stay right in the centre (Berlin Mitte), but is not necessary and other areas may give you a better glimpse into the “real” Berlin.
Friedrichshain-Kreuzberg are younger districts, international and where you’ll find a lot of the nightlife. Prenzlauer Berg has a rich history but is now very upscale.
In general, I think any area of Berlin that leads to the centre in 20-30 minutes is great to stay in.
Affordable hostels in Berlin
- The Circus Hostel (very central, nice rooms, clean)
- A&O Berlin Hauptbahnhof (really affordable, great location, popular with groups, nice common areas)
- Hostel Berlin – EastSeven (central, lots of social events, lovely rooms)
- Pfefferbett Hostel (affordable, central, great staff)
Hotels at different price points in Berlin:
$ Hüttenpalast (unique stay, lovely rooms, 20min to centre on Ubahn)
$ Meininger Berlin Alexanderplatz(technically a hostel chain but they’re always so lovely and the private rooms are big and clean, would recommend in any city)
$ Hotel Big MAMA (clean, good access to transport)
$$ Hotel Johann (quiet location with transport links, nice rooms, good value)
$$ Locke at East Side Gallery(beautiful, central studios)
$$ THE GATE GARDEN Hotel (super beautiful, central and huge garden)
$$$ Orania Berlin (outstanding service, stunning rooms)
$$$ Hotel Adlon Kempinski Berlin (insanely good location, pure luxury)
Is Berlin a walkable city?
Yes, the centre of Berlin and many main attractions are very walkable. It is also a very pedestrian-friendly city (as so many in Europe), meaning exploring on foot is fun and safe.
I personally love exploring the city by walking as I feel I get to see areas I usually wouldn’t as well as explore local shops, small alleys and so on.
How to get around Berlin using public transport?
Berlin has a really strong public transport system, including trains, trams and buses. A single ticket costs 4€, 24 hr from 11.20€ (depending on your zones). Tickets are available at most stations and even in trams (though sometimes coin operated), but also through the BVG app.
Citymapper or even Google Maps work great here for figuring out the best routes.
If you are planning to do a lot of paid activities and museums, you could also look into the Berlin WelcomeCard. It includes unlimited public transport and discounts for tons of attractions, prices start at 28,50 € for 48 hrs.
How many days do I need in Berlin?
You need a minimum of 3 or 4 days to see the main sights of Berlin, more if you want to explore other areas or add some day trips.
While you can see the absolute highlights in 1-2 days if necessary, I think Berlin really is a city you get to know better the longer you stay. There are so many hidden gems that you’ll only really discover by exploring.
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2 Comments
Did you find the A&O hostel too loud if its popular with groups? It’s currently the most affordable option
It was okay when I was there, some running along the corridors by school groups but it usually didn’t go on too long.