My initial experience of living in Berlin was in the summer of 2007, when I traveled from Ireland to improve my German. I aimed to secure a summer job in Berlin, which didn’t pan out, but with rent for a one-bedroom apartment at only 150 euros a month, it wasn’t a big problem.
For a long time, Berlin’s low cost of living combined with its vibrant nightlife, artist projects, and innovative tech companies has drawn many digital nomads. It was even mentioned in the well-known book “The Four-Hour Workweek” as an ideal location for lifestyle arbitrage—living in a low-cost country while earning in a high-income country.
Although prices have increased over the years, Berlin remains an excellent destination for digital nomads. Today, the city boasts exciting tech startups, new art exhibitions, and numerous meetups for digital nomads to connect.
I currently know about seven friends who are digital nomads in Berlin, whom I met at the KoHub coworking space in Koh Lanta, Thailand.
If you’re considering Berlin as your next destination, this guide will cover everything you need to know about living as a digital nomad in the city.
Digital Nomad Accommodation in Berlin
When I first moved to Berlin in 2008, I found a short-term furnished rental through a real estate agent. Fortunately, dealing with agents is no longer necessary.
Popular neighborhoods for digital nomads include Neukölln, Kreuzberg, and Friedrichshain. Prenzlauer Berg and Mitte are also popular but more expensive. Wedding is an affordable option, located just north of Prenzlauer Berg.
Airbnb for Digital Nomads in Berlin
Airbnb is convenient for short stays of a few days to a few weeks, though it’s not the cheapest option. Berlin has imposed strict regulations on short-term rentals, making it harder and more expensive to find places. Monthly prices for a one-bedroom apartment in trendy neighborhoods start at $1500, with an average of $2818 in August 2017. Shared flats are cheaper, averaging $1418 per month. Alternatives include Nestpick, 9Flats, and Wimdu.
Sublets for Digital Nomads in Berlin
For budget-friendly options, check sites like WG-Gesucht.de. Students often sublet their rooms for 300 – 600 dollars/month in prime locations. Trust is key, so providing links to your social profiles and Airbnb references can help. Some sublets hold “casting” sessions to choose tenants, which can be an unusual experience.
Best Hostels for Digital Nomads in Berlin
Booking a hostel for your first few nights provides an affordable base to explore the city and find longer-term accommodation. Recommended hostels include Heart of Gold Hostel, The Circus Hostel, Generator Berlin Mitte, A&O Hostels, and 36 Rooms.
Long Term Rentals for Digital Nomads in Berlin
The rental market is competitive due to high demand. Renting long-term often requires a good credit rating, a full-time job, and a rental history. Apartments typically come unfurnished. Scams are common, so avoid sending money before seeing the place.
Coliving in Berlin
Coliving spaces like those found on Anyplace.com offer hassle-free, flexible accommodation designed for digital nomads. These spaces often include coworking areas, fully equipped kitchens, private rooms, and social areas, making it easy to work and meet others.
Working in Berlin
As part of the Schengen Area, EU citizens can travel and work freely in Berlin. Non-EU citizens need a Schengen Visa for short stays. Starting a business involves a lot of paperwork and can be complicated, but services like Xolo simplify the process for digital nomads and freelancers.
Best Places to Work in Berlin
Berlin offers numerous affordable coworking spaces and cafes suitable for working.
Cafes
Some top cafes for digital nomads include St Oberholz, Szimpla, The Visit, Silo Coffee, Father Carpenter, and Nano Coffee.
Coworking Spaces
Betahaus in Kreuzberg is a popular coworking space with a great cafe. The Factory in Prenzlauer Berg hosts over 800 workers from companies like Uber and Twitter. Other options include Co-Up in Kreuzberg and Launch/co in Friedrichshain.
Meetups and Activities
Berlin hosts a variety of meetups, from tech events to social gatherings. Check Meetup.com, Couchsurfing, and Eventbrite for interesting events. Activities include Ultimate Frisbee in Treptower Park and various Couchsurfing events.
Things to Do in Berlin
Berlin offers diverse experiences, from exploring urban areas to relaxing in nature.
RAW Gelände
An eclectic mix of clubs, skate parks, food trucks, and flea markets located in former train repair buildings.
Teufelsberg
A former US espionage station now popular with graffiti artists, offering hiking and biking opportunities.
Markthalle Neun
A food market with street food from around the world, and a Breakfast Market held every third Sunday.
Tempelhof Airport
An abandoned airport turned park, perfect for picnics, BBQs, and outdoor activities.
Staying Longer in Berlin
Falling in love with Berlin and deciding to stay longer is common. Obtaining a work visa is relatively easy, and there are job opportunities, especially in tech and design fields. Learning German can greatly enhance your experience and daily life.
Berlin remains a dynamic and inviting city for digital nomads, offering a mix of affordability, culture, and opportunities for connection and growth.
