Expat community

Berlin has a thriving and diverse expat community, home to people from over 180 countries. English is widely spoken in the city, and social groups, networking events, and international clubs make integration easy. Events like meetups for language exchange, professional networking, and creative industries are popular among Berlin’s expats. Join our community of over 150 members who have relocated to Berlin! Connect with fellow expats, share experiences, and build your network in one of the world’s most diverse cities.

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Co-working spaces

Berlin’s thriving entrepreneurial and startup scene is supported by a wide range of co-working spaces that cater to diverse needs, from freelancers to large-scale businesses. Here are some popular options:

• WeWork: Multiple locations across Berlin offer modern amenities, including high-speed Wi-Fi, private offices, meeting rooms, and regular networking events to foster collaboration.
• Mindspace: Known for its stylish interiors, Mindspace provides flexible workspaces, communal areas, and event spaces, making it popular among creative professionals and startups.
• Betahaus: A pioneer in Berlin’s co-working scene, Betahaus in Kreuzberg offers hot desks, private offices, and a strong community focus with workshops and networking events.
• Factory Berlin: Combining co-working with innovation, Factory Berlin connects professionals and companies through its unique membership model and access to mentoring, workshops, and events.
• Regus Gendarmenmarkt: Situated in one of Berlin’s most prestigious areas, this Regus location offers professional workspaces, private offices, and meeting rooms with a stunning view of the historic Gendarmenmarkt Square.

Public workspaces

For those who prefer public workspaces, Berlin has an abundance of cafés, libraries, and unique venues offering free or affordable options to work or study:

• Zentral- und Landesbibliothek Berlin (ZLB): This large public library provides free Wi-Fi, study tables, and quiet workspaces, making it a popular choice for students and remote workers.
• Sankt Oberholz: A café with multiple locations, it’s a hotspot for freelancers due to its strong Wi-Fi, comfortable seating, and relaxed atmosphere.
• Café Anna Blume: Combining a tranquil ambiance with ample seating and Wi-Fi, this café is a favorite among creatives.

Company presence

Berlin is a key business hub in Europe, excelling in technology, media, finance, and creative industries:

• Technology: Berlin is home to major tech players like Google Germany, Zalando, and Delivery Hero. The city is also a global center for innovation in AI, blockchain, and e-commerce.
• Media/Entertainment: With companies like Axel Springer, Deutsche Welle, and SoundCloud headquartered here, Berlin has a vibrant media and music scene.
• Finance: Berlin hosts fintech giants like N26 and Raisin, alongside startups disrupting traditional banking models.
• Healthcare/biotech: Boasting firms like Bayer and Charité Research, Berlin is a leader in medical research and biotechnology.
• Manufacturing: With Tesla’s Gigafactory nearby and Siemens deeply rooted in the city’s history, Berlin remains a significant manufacturing and engineering hub.

Startup culture

Berlin’s startup culture is one of the most vibrant in Europe, attracting entrepreneurs and investors worldwide. Its ecosystem is supported by numerous incubators and accelerators:

• Factory Berlin: More than a co-working space, Factory Berlin fosters innovation through its unique community of startups, corporates, and creatives.
• Berlin Startup Incubator: This accelerator helps early-stage startups refine their ideas, build prototypes, and secure funding.
• Techstars Berlin: A leading accelerator program supporting startups across industries with mentorship, resources, and funding opportunities.

Berlin is particularly strong in fields like AI, fintech, and mobility tech, with companies like N26, Tier Mobility, and FlixBus leading the way.

Networking opportunities

Berlin offers abundant opportunities for professionals and entrepreneurs to connect and grow:

• Berlin Founders Meetup: A monthly gathering where startup enthusiasts share ideas, network, and collaborate.
• Tech Open Air (TOA): An annual festival blending tech, art, and science, with networking events, workshops, and keynote speakers.
• LinkedIn Local Berlin: A relaxed setting for professionals to build connections and exchange ideas beyond the digital realm.
• Events at Factory Berlin and Betahaus: Regular workshops, panel discussions, and community events at these hubs offer countless chances to meet like-minded individuals.

Attractions

Berlin is a city steeped in history, culture, and innovation, offering iconic landmarks and unique experiences that cater to all interests. Here are some must-visit attractions:

• Brandenburg Gate: This neoclassical triumphal arch is one of Berlin’s most famous landmarks, symbolizing unity and peace. It’s particularly stunning when lit up at night.
• Berlin Wall and East Side Gallery: Visit the remnants of the Berlin Wall, now transformed into the East Side Gallery, an open-air museum featuring vibrant murals by international artists.
• Reichstag Building: The seat of Germany’s parliament, this historic building combines classical architecture with a modern glass dome offering panoramic views of the city.
• Museum Island: A UNESCO World Heritage Site, this cluster of five world-class museums includes the Pergamon Museum and the Altes Museum, perfect for history and art enthusiasts.
• Checkpoint Charlie: A former Cold War border crossing between East and West Berlin, now a museum that offers insight into Berlin’s divided history.
• Charlottenburg Palace: The largest palace in Berlin, this baroque gem boasts opulent interiors and expansive gardens.
• Alexanderplatz and TV Tower: A bustling square with shopping and dining options, dominated by the iconic TV Tower, which features an observation deck with breathtaking views.
• Potsdamer Platz: A hub of modern architecture and entertainment, home to cinemas, shopping malls, and theaters.
• Tiergarten: Berlin’s sprawling central park is ideal for picnics, cycling, and enjoying a peaceful break from urban life.

Festivals and holidays

Festivals:

• Berlin International Film Festival (Berlinale) (February): One of the world’s leading film festivals, showcasing hundreds of films and attracting celebrities and filmmakers from across the globe.
• Carnival of Cultures (May): A vibrant celebration of Berlin’s multiculturalism, featuring colorful parades, music, dance, and global cuisine.
• Berlin Pride (Christopher Street Day) (July): One of Europe’s largest LGBTQ+ events, featuring a lively parade and community events that promote inclusivity and equality.
• Lollapalooza Berlin (September): A music festival featuring international artists, live performances, and family-friendly activities in a lively outdoor setting.

Holidays:

• German Unity Day (October 3): A national holiday celebrating the reunification of Germany, with events, concerts, and fireworks held across the city.
• Christmas Day (December 25): Berlin comes alive with festive Christmas markets, such as the Gendarmenmarkt and Alexanderplatz markets, offering mulled wine, handmade gifts, and seasonal treats.
• New Year’s Eve (December 31): Celebrated with spectacular fireworks at the Brandenburg Gate and parties throughout the city.

Local celebrities

Berlin has been home to numerous influential figures in arts, politics, and science. Here are a few notable names:

• Albert Einstein: The groundbreaking physicist spent time in Berlin during his academic career and made significant contributions while living in the city.
• Marlene Dietrich: A legendary actress and singer, Dietrich was born in Berlin and rose to fame in both Germany and Hollywood.
• Berthold Brecht: Renowned playwright and poet, Brecht’s works have had a profound impact on modern theater and literature.

Fun fact

Berlin has more bridges than Venice—around 1,700! The city’s waterways, which include the Spree and Havel rivers, contribute to its unique charm and provide countless scenic spots for walking and relaxation.

Local cuisine

Berlin’s culinary scene reflects its rich history and multicultural influences, offering a variety of dishes and flavors to explore.

• Currywurst: A quintessential Berlin street food, this dish consists of a grilled sausage topped with a tangy curry-flavored ketchup.
• Döner Kebab: Introduced by Berlin’s Turkish community, this beloved fast food features juicy meat, fresh vegetables, and creamy sauces in a pita or flatbread.
• Berliner Pfannkuchen (Berliner): A sweet, jelly-filled doughnut traditionally enjoyed during festivals and celebrations.
• Eisbein: A hearty dish of cured and boiled pork knuckle, typically served with sauerkraut and mashed potatoes.
• Kartoffelsalat: A traditional German potato salad often served as a side dish with sausages or schnitzel.

Do's and Don'ts

✅ Do respect Berlin’s history. Visit memorials and historical sites with reverence.

✅ Do embrace the diversity.Try cuisines from different cultures and join local festivals.

✅ Do validate public transport tickets, ensure your ticket is stamped before boarding.

❌ Don’t walk in bike lanes, cyclists rely on clear paths, so avoid stepping into their lanes.

❌ Don’t disturb quiet hours, keep noise levels down from 10 PM to 6 AM.

❌ Don’t assume everywhere accepts cards, carry cash, especially for smaller vendors.

Tipping

Tipping is customary in Berlin, but not as high as in some other countries.

• Restaurants: Round up the bill or leave 5-10% for good service. Hand the tip directly to the server when paying.
• Bars: €1-€2 per drink or a small tip when ordering multiple rounds.
• Taxis: Round up to the nearest euro or tip 5-10% of the fare.
• Hotels: €1-€2 per bag for bellhops and €1-€3 per night for housekeeping.

Note: Tipping is appreciated but not mandatory. Staff typically earn a fair wage in Germany, so tipping is considered a gesture of gratitude.

Equivalent Services & Platforms

^{Taxi service} _{MyTaxi (Free Now), Uber}

^Supermarket _{Edeka, Rewe, Lidl}

^Messaging _{WhatsApp, Telegram}

^{Food delivery} _{Lieferando, Wolt}

^{Internet provider} _{Vodafone, Telekom}

^Bank _{Deutsche Bank, Commerzbank}

^{Hotel booking} _{Booking.com, Airbnb}

^Streaming _{Netflix, Spotify, Amazon Prime}

‍Apps to download before arrival

^{Navigation & transit} _{Google Maps, BVG Fahrinfo, Citymapper}

^Ride-hailing _{Uber Uber, Free Now, Tier (e-scooters)}

^{Food & dining} _{Lieferando, Wolt, OpenTable}

^{Daily essentials} _{Bring! (shopping lists), Too Good To Go}

^{Currency & language} _{XE Currency, Google Translate}

^{Weather & city info} _{Wetter.com, Berlin Official Guide}

Disclaimer: This city guide is based on personal research, experiences, and various online sources. While we strive for accuracy and inclusivity, the content is generalized and may not reflect all individual circumstances or perspectives. Readers are encouraged to double-check information for accuracy and relevance to their specific needs. Updated as of November 2024, this guide is for informational purposes only. We disclaim all liability for decisions made based on this guide.

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