Where to Stay in Berlin (Best Areas + Hotel Guide)

A complete guide to where to stay in Berlin (+ the best areas for first-timers, tourists, Christmas markets and best hotels near Berlin Central Station).

Situated along the banks of the River Spree, Berlin is Germany’s largest city – nine times larger than Paris, in fact! Thus, picking the perfect area to stay can be quite a challenge, especially if you’re visiting for the first time. To help you choose where to stay in Berlin, I’ve put together this travel guide highlighting the best places for sightseeing, nightlife, and Christmas markets, along with recommended hotels. I’ve also included suggestions for accommodations near Berlin Central Station.

Where I stayed in Berlin

I’ve visited Berlin several times, each time staying in different neighbourhoods based on the purpose of my trip. Without a doubt, my favourite area to stay for sightseeing is Mitte. I typically choose to stay between the Brandenburg Gate and Alexanderplatz. This central location is ideal, as everything is within walking distance or a quick metro ride away.

💖 My favourite hotel in Berlin: Hotel Luc
⭐ Rating: 9.0 | 940+ reviews
Perfect for: sightseeing – close to a metro station and within walking distance of Museum Island and Checkpoint Charlie
What I loved: modern, spacious rooms and a great free sauna and steam bath
Check details & prices: Booking.com | Expedia

I first found Hotel Luc on one of my shopping trips after Ryanair moved my flight a day earlier. Wanting to stay more central, I booked it for one night so I could fit in some sightseeing as well. I usually go for 4-star hotels, but Hotel Luc is a 5-star stay for a 4-star price. It quickly became my go-to whenever I want a central location. I stayed there again on my most recent trip for the Christmas markets, and it was honestly perfect. The Hausvogteiplatz U-Bahn station is literally steps away and makes it super easy to get to all the winter markets.

The rooms are spacious and beautifully styled, and I absolutely love the overall atmosphere and vibe of the hotel. They always welcome you with a glass of prosecco, and the last time I stayed, there were even complimentary macarons waiting in the room. The sauna and steam bath are fantastic – and free to use.

Readers’ most booked hotel in Berlin

Looking for an excellent hotel near the top tourist attractions and convenient transport links? Then check out Maritim proArte Hotel – with over 11,000 reviews, it is the most booked hotel in Berlin.

Maritim proArte Hotel – Most booked hotel

📍Location: 10min walk to Brandenburg Gate ⭐ Rating: 8.5 | 11,630+ reviews

Just a 10-minute walk from Brandenburg Gate, this hotel is perfectly located for sightseeing, especially if it’s your first time in Berlin. You can pretty much walk everywhere, from Museum Island to Checkpoint Charlie and even Alexanderplatz. There’s also a fantastic spa with an indoor pool, plus both dry and steam saunas. And definitely stop by the hotel’s Checkpoint Restaurant & Bar for some cocktails.

alexanderplatz best area stay berlin
Alexanderplatz – the best area to stay in Berlin for first-timers

Where to stay in Berlin (My top picks)

Tips for booking a hotel in Berlin

Public transport proximity – Berlin is a vast city, so it’s crucial to book a hotel near at least a U-Bahn station, and ideally, an S-Bahn station as well. Even if you stay in a central location, you’ll still need to rely on public transport to get around efficiently.

Visiting Berlin for the first time? Then check out my comprehensive Berlin itinerary, which includes the top tourist attractions along with my favourite spots for dinner and brunch.

Alexanderplatz – where to stay in Berlin first time

Berlin is divided into 12 districts (Bezirk), each of which is further split into smaller neighbourhoods. It’s a huge city, with landmarks scattered all over the place, so it’s pretty much impossible to stay close to everything.

Fortunately, the city’s public transport system is fantastic, featuring the U-Bahn (underground trains) and S-Bahn (suburban trains), which makes it easy to get around. However, if you’d rather spend less time on public transport, I’d recommend staying in a central area and booking a hotel near a metro station. This way, you’ll be perfectly situated to explore Berlin’s attractions and enjoy the city.

The best area to stay in Berlin for first-timers is Alexanderplatz. It is one of the city’s most iconic squares and a major transportation hub. With its S-Bahn and U-Bahn stations right there, you’ll have fantastic connections to explore Berlin and beyond. Plus, being in such a central location means you’ll be close to some of the city’s key attractions, such as the TV Tower and Museum Island.

Alexanderplatz is located in the central Mitte district, which is the historical heart of the city. It’s home to the iconic TV Tower, one of Berlin’s most recognisable landmarks. Here, you’ll also find the World Clock, with its impressive display showing the time in cities all over the world. Just a short stroll from Alexanderplatz is Museum Island, featuring several renowned museums, including the Pergamon Museum.

Don’t miss out! Book your TV Tower skip-the-line ticket. With over 1 million visitors a year, lines are huge – save hours and get straight inside.

Why stay near Alexanderplatz for first-time visitors

  • ideal location – Alexanderplatz is the best place to stay in Berlin for first timers, due to its proximity to tourist attractions and excellent connections to the rest of the city (S-Bahn and U-Bahn)
  • walking distance to major tourist attractions, including Museum Island, Berlin Cathedral and the TV Tower
  • direct access to Potsdam and Brandenburg Airport (via S-Bahn line S9 and RE8, RB23 regional trains)
  • Galeria Kaufhof, a large department store, is just a few steps away
where stay berlin first time

Whenever my readers ask where to stay in Berlin, I always recommend Alexanderplatz. In my opinion, it’s the ideal area for first-time visitors who want to be close to tourist attractions, shopping, excellent restaurants, and convenient transport links. Some of my favourite dining spots in the area include Hofbräu Wirtshaus (for delicious schnitzels and currywurst), Father Carpenter (great brunch), and Canal (fantastic gelato and éclairs).

Best hotels near Alexanderplatz

H4 Hotel Alexanderplatz – Most popular 4-star

📍Location: 5min walk to Alexanderplatz ⭐ Rating: 8.5 | 11,870+ reviews

Only a short stroll away from Alexanderplatz, this hotel is the perfect spot for your first visit to Berlin. You’ll love the convenience of being close to both S-Bahn and U-Bahn stations, making it easy to get around. Plus, you’ll find a great selection of restaurants nearby and the Galeria Kaufhof shopping centre is just a short stroll away.


Classik Hotel Alexander Plaza – Best rated 4-star

📍Location: 8min walk to Alexanderplatz ⭐ Rating: 8.7 | 4,070+ reviews

Ideal location, just steps from Alexanderplatz and Museum Island. The hotel is also conveniently close to the Alexanderplatz S-Bahn and U-Bahn station, offering direct connections to the Brandenburg Airport. The boutique rooms are bright and spacious, and the breakfast spread is amazing, with plenty of high-quality options to choose from.


Radisson Collection Hotel – Best 5-star

📍Location: 9min walk to Alexanderplatz ⭐ Rating: 8.7 | 3,060+ reviews

Overlooking the Berlin Cathedral and River Spree, the Radisson Collection Hotel lies just a 10-minute walk from Alexanderplatz. You’ll find the Hackescher Markt S-Bahn and U-Bahn station only 5 minutes away, making it easy to explore the city. And while you’re there, be sure to dine at Balaustine, where you can enjoy Middle Eastern-inspired dishes and cocktails. Plus, there is a great spa centre with an indoor pool.


Motel One Alexanderplatz – Best 3-star

📍Location: 2min walk to Alexanderplatz ⭐ Rating: 8.7 | 16,660+ reviews

Motel One is my favourite German hotel chain for affordable stays. The rooms are simple but stylish, and the locations are always perfect. This particular Motel One couldn’t be better situated – just steps from Alexanderplatz. Plus, the organic breakfast is fantastic. And definitely don’t miss the rooftop bar for incredible views of the TV Tower and some really tasty cocktails.


Adina Apartment Hotel Hackescher Markt – Best apartments

📍Location: 8min walk to Alexanderplatz ⭐ Rating: 8.6 | 2,130+ reviews

Just steps from Hackescher Markt S-Bahn and U-Bahn station, this aparthotel is a fantastic choice for your Berlin stay. Its central, yet peaceful location makes it perfect for sightseeing. You’ll love the modern, soundproofed apartments with their fully equipped kitchens, giving you a cosy home base. Plus, a great supermarket and the lively Hackesche Höfe, with its charming shops and restaurants, are right around the corner.

museum island tourist area
Berlin Cathedral is a short walk away from Alexanderplatz

Brandenburg Gate – best area to stay in Berlin for tourists

The Mitte district is the city’s most central and historic area. It is where Berlin was originally founded in the 13th century as a small settlement along the River Spree. Mitte is a large district, divided into more than 10 smaller neighbourhoods. However, you’ll likely spend most of your time in the neighbourhoods of Alt-Berlin, Friedrichswerder, Dorotheenstadt, Friedrichstadt, Museum Island and Alexanderplatz. To help you picture it, imagine the main tourist area stretching from Alexanderplatz, through Museum Island, and reaching all the way to Brandenburg Gate.

The best place to stay in Berlin for tourists is the area between the Brandenburg Gate and Museum Island. This central location is home to some of the city’s most iconic landmarks, such as the Cathedral, Reichstag Building, Unter den Linden Boulevard and Pergamon Museum. Plus, with Brandenburger Tor S-Bahn and U-Bahn station, along with the Bahnhof Berlin-Friedrichstraße nearby, getting around the city is incredibly easy.

In my view, both Brandenburg Gate and Alexanderplatz are fantastic areas for tourists. However, I prefer Brandenburg Gate because the neighbourhood is more charming compared to Alexanderplatz. Additionally, you’ll find a greater selection of boutique hotels here, while Alexanderplatz mostly offers more affordable 3-star options. Alexanderplatz is incredibly convenient for transportation, making it a great choice if you want to be close to everything, especially for a first-time visit. But if your focus is on sightseeing, I recommend staying in the area between the Brandenburg Gate and Museum Island for the best experience.

Why stay near the Brandenburg Gate as a tourist

  • this is the city’s most central and historic area, home to iconic landmarks, including the Berlin Cathedral, Reichstag Building, Unter den Linden Boulevard and Pergamon Museum
  • excellent connection to the rest of the city via the Brandenburger Tor S-Bahn and U-Bahn station and the Bahnhof Berlin-Friedrichstraße
  • direct access to Potsdam, Sachsenhausen and Berlin Brandenburg Airport (via S-Bahn line S9 and RE8, RB23 regional trains)
  • within walking distance from Hackescher Markt and its many charming cafés and restaurants

Best hotels near Brandenburg Gate

NH Collection Mitte Friedrichstrasse – Best 4-star

📍Location: 6min walk to Museum Island ⭐ Rating: 8.6 | 7,020+ reviews

Situated just steps from Museum Island, NH Collection Mitte is a perfect base for sightseeing. It’s close to S-Bahn Friedrichstrasse and right where the old East–West Berlin border once was, which is pretty cool if you’re into a bit of history. The rooms are spacious, there’s a nice little sauna to relax in, and breakfast is lovely – especially the freshly squeezed orange juice.


ARCOTEL John F – Second best 4-star

📍Location: 2min walk to Museum Island ⭐ Rating: 8.4 | 6,590+ reviews

Ideal location, just a short walk from Museum Island. Plus, the hotel is well-connected to the rest of the city, with Hausvogteiplatz and Museumsinsel U-Bahn metro stations both within a five-minute walk. At the hotel’s Foreign Affairs restaurant, you can enjoy gourmet international dishes, and start your day right with a breakfast with fresh, locally sourced ingredients.


The Westin Grand Berlin – Best 5-star

📍Location: 6min walk to Brandenburg Gate ⭐ Rating: 8.8 | 7,350+ reviews

Nestled on the historic Friedrichstrasse, right beside the renowned Unter den Linden, the Westin Grand Berlin offers an unbeatable location. You’ll be just a short stroll from iconic landmarks like the Brandenburg Gate and Museum Island. The hotel is also conveniently close to the Bahnhof Friedrichstraße (easy access to the airport), and the Brandenburger Tor S-Bahn and U-Bahn stations. Don’t miss the hotel’s Relish Restaurant, where you can enjoy French and Asian cuisine.


Motel One Potsdamer Platz – Best 3-star

📍Location: 11min walk to Checkpoint Charlie ⭐ Rating: 8.4 | 3,990+ reviews

If you’re looking for an affordable stay, Motel One Potsdamer Platz is a great pick. It’s just a 5-minute walk from Potsdamer Platz, making it easy to get around the city and to the airport. Plus, the Mall of Berlin is right next door. There’s even a cool bar on the 3rd floor with an outdoor garden, perfect for a cocktail after a day of exploring.


The Mandala Suites – Best apartments

📍Location: 7min walk to Checkpoint Charlie ⭐ Rating: 9.0 | 2,220+ reviews

If you need a bit more space, the Mandala Suites are a great option. These stylish, centrally located apartments come with a fully equipped kitchenette. Breakfast is served in the lounge on the 8th floor, with gorgeous views over the city’s rooftops. And there’s also a lovely spa area with a sauna and steam room!

brandenburg gate tourist area
Brandenburg Gate – the best area to stay in Berlin for tourists

Gendarmenmarkt – where to stay in Berlin for Christmas markets

Berlin is one of Europe’s most popular winter destinations, boasting around ten major Christmas markets. In addition, you’ll find over 10 smaller ones spread across the city, each with its own unique atmosphere. Some of the most popular markets can be found at Gendarmenmarkt, Alexanderplatz, Rotes Rathaus, and Schlossplatz.

That said, most of the markets are quite spread out. So, even if you’re staying somewhere central, you’ll still need to use public transport to visit them all. My advice is to stay near the red U-Bahn line (U2), as it connects all the Christmas markets, from Lucia to Charlottenburg Palace. On my last visit, I stayed near Hausvogteiplatz station, just steps away from Gendarmenmarkt, and it was incredibly convenient.

Find everything you need to plan your holiday in my complete guide to the best Christmas market in Berlin.

The best place to stay in Berlin for the Christmas markets is Gendarmenmarkt. Located in the heart of the Mitte district, this charming square puts you right in the middle of the holiday magic. From here, you can easily walk to four festive markets and explore nearby landmarks like the Brandenburg Gate and Museum Island. And to reach the markets at Kaiser Wilhelm Memorial Church and Charlottenburg Palace, simply hop on the U-Bahn line U2 from Hausvogteiplatz. It’s the ideal spot to soak up the festive spirit and enjoy the best of Berlin!

The Gendarmenmarkt is one of the city’s most beautiful squares. It is flanked by two nearly identical 18th-century cathedrals – the French Cathedral (Französischer Dom) and the German Cathedral (Deutscher Dom). Each year, it is home to the city’s most famous Christmas market, WeihnachtsZauber Gendarmenmarkt. If you’re planning to celebrate New Year’s Eve, this is the place to be, as the square hosts a vibrant DJ party with spectacular fireworks.

Why stay near Gendarmenmarkt for Christmas markets

  • Gendarmenmarkt is the most central and convenient area to explore the Christmas markets in Berlin
  • walking distance to the festive markets at Gendarmenmarkt, Alexanderplatz, Rotes Rathaus, and Potsdamer Platz and many tourist attractions such as Brandenburg Gate and Museum Island
  • Gendarmenmarkt is home to the city’s most popular festive market, WeihnachtsZauber Gendarmenmarkt
  • U-Bahn line U2 provides access to the Christmas markets at Kaiser Wilhelm Memorial Church, Charlottenburg Palace, Alexanderplatz and Potsdamer Platz

Best hotels near Gendarmenmarkt

NH Collection Mitte am Checkpoint Charlie – Most popular 4-star

📍Location: 6min walk to Gendarmenmarkt ⭐ Rating: 8.5 | 8,300+ reviews

NH Collection is an ideal spot for a winter getaway, located right by Anton-Wilhelm-Amo-Straße U-Bahn station (U2). It’s just a short walk from the iconic Checkpoint Charlie, Friedrichstraße shopping street, and the Mall of Berlin. And you’ll also be within easy walking distance of the festive markets at Potsdamer Platz and Gendarmenmarkt.


Courtyard by Marriott City Center – Best rated 4-star

📍Location: 10min walk to Gendarmenmarkt ⭐ Rating: 9.0 | 2,660+ reviews

Located in the heart of Mitte and just steps from Spittelmarkt U-Bahn station (U2), this hotel is a great base for exploring the winter markets. Breakfast is a really nice spread, with fresh, tasty options and amazing choices for vegans too. You can enjoy regional dishes at Kitchen & Bar Courtyard Restaurant, or freshly brewed coffee at #Hashtag Coffeeshop. There’s even a small market by reception selling drinks, snacks, souvenirs (and yes, plushie bears too).


TITANIC Gendarmenmarkt – Best 5-star

📍Location: 2min walk to Gendarmenmarkt ⭐ Rating: 8.9 | 6,910+ reviews

For a luxurious winter getaway, consider booking a room at TITANIC Gendarmenmarkt. Located just around the corner from the iconic Gendarmenmarkt market, this hotel puts you right in the heart of the festive action. You’ll also have easy access to the rest of the Christmas markets via the red U2 metro line and to the tourist attractions on Museum Island. Enjoy a delicious meal at the hotel’s Beef Grill Club by Hasir (featuring a show kitchen), or relax with some live music at the Schinkel Bar. Plus, there is a lovely Spa with a Turkish hammam and dry sauna.


Motel One Spittelmarkt – Best 3-star

📍Location: 10min walk to Gendarmenmarkt ⭐ Rating: 8.6 | 6,080+ reviews

Motel One Spittelmarkt is a great budget-friendly option with a perfect location for the Christmas markets. It’s just a minute from Spittelmarkt U-Bahn station (U2) and within walking distance of the famous Gendarmenmarkt. The rooms are simple but modern and comfy, with everything you need for a short stay.

gendarmenmarkt christmas area
Gendarmenmarkt – the best place to stay in Berlin for Christmas markets

Hackescher Markt – best area to stay in Berlin for nightlife

Berlin’s nightlife is absolutely incredible, and there’s something here for everyone. Whether you’re up for dancing the night away in world-class clubs, catching a live set at an intimate venue, or sipping cocktails in quirky bars, you’ll find it all. The party scene is unique – events often start late and go on until the next day, with some clubs staying open 24/7! It’s all part of the city’s vibrant, non-stop energy that makes nights out in Berlin unforgettable.

Berlin is home to more than 300 clubs, from techno and alternative venues to live music spots and chic cocktail bars. With such a wide variety spread throughout the city, you don’t need to limit yourself to one particular area to enjoy the nightlife. However, if you’re looking for the most popular spots, here are three key areas you might want to check out:

  • Mitte – the most central district, home to upscale bars, rooftop bars, great restaurants and live music venues (perfect area for tourists as well)
  • Friedrichshain – the district is famous for its techno scene, featuring iconic clubs like the exclusive Berghain, Sisyphos and RAW-Gelände (a former railway repair yard, transformed into a popular nightlife hotspot)
  • Kreuzberg – known for its alternative vibe and mix of clubs and bars. You’ll find most of the popular clubs around Wranglerkiez and Köttbusser Tor

If you’re visiting Berlin and looking to dive into the nightlife, Mitte, especially around Hackescher Markt, is the ideal area to stay. Hackescher Markt has become a hot nightlife destination in recent years, boasting a mix of trendy bars, clubs, and stylish cafés. Plus, you’ll have easy access to other popular nightlife areas like Friedrichshain, Kreuzberg, and Prenzlauer Berg via the Hackescher Markt S-Bahn and U-Bahn station. The best part is that Hackescher Markt is centrally located, just a short walk from Alexanderplatz, a major transportation hub, and close to many of the city’s top attractions.

I wouldn’t recommend staying in Friedrichshain or Kreuzberg, as some areas can be a bit rough. In my opinion, Mitte is a better choice for tourists, offering a more central and nicer experience. In particular, Hackescher Markt is one of my favourite spots for dining out or enjoying an evening with a cocktail.

Why stay near Hackescher Markt for nightlife

  • home to numerous nightclubs, Hackescher Markt is the ideal area for tourists looking for nightlife in Berlin
  • Hackescher Markt S-Bahn station provides easy access to the popular nightlife areas of Friedrichshain and Kreuzberg

Best hotels near Hackescher Markt

Hotel ZOE by AMANO – Most popular 4-star

📍Location: 2min walk to Hackescher Markt ⭐ Rating: 8.5 | 4,710+ reviews

Situated just steps from Hackescher Markt Station, Hotel ZOE by AMANO is a great base for exploring the city’s nightlife. You’ll find plenty of restaurants, bars, and supermarkets right nearby. The hotel itself also has a fantastic rooftop terrace bar with lovely views of the TV Tower. Rooms are quiet and well soundproofed, and the toiletries (including the soap) are surprisingly good.


Casa Camper – Best rated 4-star

📍Location: 6min walk to Hackescher Markt ⭐ Rating: 8.9 | 1,530+ reviews

Casa Camper has a great location, right by the Weinmeisterstraße U-Bahn station and only a short walk from Hackescher Markt. The rooms are modern and come with a surprisingly spacious sitting area, which is great if you like a bit of extra room. And don’t miss the Tentempié Lounge on the top floor, where you can enjoy panoramic city views and complimentary drinks.


Telegraphenamt – Best 5-star

📍Location: 7min walk to Hackescher Markt ⭐ Rating: 8.9 | 700+ reviews

Situated right next to Monbijou Park, Telegraphenamt occupies a beautifully renovated post office building dating back to 1910. The rooms are big, stylish, and super quiet. You’ve got plenty of options for food and drinks: grab a bite at Root Bistro, sip some Bavarian beer at Dieselhaus, cocktails at Root Bar, or just chill with coffee and pastries at L’oui – Torcafé. There’s even a sauna if you want to relax.


Monbijou Hotel – Best 3-star

📍Location: 3min walk to Hackescher Markt ⭐ Rating: 8.5 | 1,520+ reviews

A great affordable hotel, just a short stroll from Hackescher Markt. You’ll find plenty of restaurants and bars right around the corner. I actually stayed here on my very first trip to Berlin ages ago, and the location was perfect. Don’t miss the amazing rooftop bar terrace with its stunning 360-degree view of the city, as well as the cosy fireplace lounge bar.

berlin motel one rooftop bar
Motel One Berlin-Upper West has one of the best rooftop bars in Berlin

Best hotels near Berlin Central Station

Situated in the heart of Berlin, Berlin Central Station (Berlin Hauptbahnhof) is one of Europe’s largest and busiest train stations. As a major transport hub, it connects various parts of the city through an extensive S-Bahn and U-Bahn network. The station’s modern, multi-level design, with its impressive glass roof and built-in shopping complex, makes it a destination in itself. Its five levels are well-organised, with the lower levels for long-distance and regional trains, and the upper levels for local S-Bahn routes.

While Berlin Central Station is centrally located, I’d suggest staying nearby only if you’re in the city for one night or have an early or late train to catch. The area is safe, especially compared to other central stations in major European cities, but it is rather boring. Plus, you’ll need to take the U-Bahn or the S-Bahn each time you want to get around. The closest tourist attraction, the Brandenburg Gate, is about a 20-minute walk away.

If you’re staying for more than one night and want a place with excellent transport connections, I’d recommend Alexanderplatz. It is directly connected to Berlin Hauptbahnhof via the S-Bahn and is closer to all tourist attractions.

Here are the best hotels near Berlin Central Station.


IntercityHotel Hauptbahnhof – Nearest to Berlin Hauptbahnhof

📍Location: 3min walk to Hauptbahnhof ⭐ Rating: 8.1 | 10,800+ reviews

Located directly across from Berlin Central Station, the Intercity Hotel is an excellent choice for an overnight stay. The rooms are bright, spacious, and modern, super quiet for a good night’s sleep. Plus, the breakfast is really good.


Hotel ROMY by AMANO – Best 4-star

📍Location: 5min walk to Hauptbahnhof ⭐ Rating: 8.5 | 6,100+ reviews

Just across from the Central Railway Station, Hotel ROMY is another convenient option if you’re travelling by train. There’s a nice Mexican restaurant, Amigo Cohen, and a cosy bar stocked with mezcal and tequila. The rooms are small but quiet, just right for a quick overnight stay.


Steigenberger Hotel Am Kanzleramt – Best 5-star

📍Location: 3min walk to Hauptbahnhof ⭐ Rating: 8.8 | 7,770+ reviews

For a luxurious overnight stay, Steigenberger Hotel Am Kanzleramt is the perfect choice. Located directly across from the Central train station, it offers excellent transport connections throughout the city. The rooms are modern, spacious, and soundproof for a good rest. If you prefer to stay in, you can enjoy a meal at the hotel’s Restaurant ELLA, which serves international dishes and Berlin classics. Plus, there is a nice spa area with city views.


Motel One Hauptbahnhof – Best 3-star

📍Location: 6min walk to Hauptbahnhof ⭐ Rating: 8.4 | 9,400+ reviews

Situated right across from Hauptbahnhof, Motel One is an excellent budget-friendly option. The rooms aren’t large, but they’re soundproofed and well-appointed, offering great value for money. There’s also a cool bar and lounge downstairs.

brandenburg airport airplane wizzair

Best hotels near Berlin Brandenburg Airport

Berlin Brandenburg Airport (BER) is the big, modern airport that replaced the old Tegel and Schönefeld hubs. So if you’re flying into Berlin these days, this is your landing spot. It’s about 18 km southeast of the city centre, tucked into the town of Schönefeld. BER has Terminals 1 and 2 that are connected (you can walk from one to the other), and there are plenty of shops, cafés, and services inside.

One of BER’s best features is its rail link right under the terminal – no shuttle bus needed. Trains like the Airport Express (FEX) and the S-Bahn suburban lines run frequently to central Berlin. You’ll usually be downtown in about 20–30 minutes, depending on where you’re headed. Berlin’s transport is divided into fare zones, and BER is in zone C. So make sure your ticket covers A–B–C when you’re heading into town. If you prefer a taxi, expect to pay around €70 to get to Alexanderplatz.

As usual, I only recommend staying near the airport if you have a very late or very early flight. Especially if your flight is between 1 AM and 4 AM, when the Airport Express (FEX) isn’t running. There are plenty of options for an overnight stay, but here are the best hotels near Berlin Brandenburg Airport that I personally recommend.


IntercityHotel Airport BER Terminal 1 & 2 – Most popular 4-star

📍Location: 2min walk to the airport ⭐ Rating: 8.7 | 25,500+ reviews

Located just a short walk from both terminals and the railway station, this is the most popular hotel at Brandenburg Airport. The rooms are spacious, comfortable, and surprisingly quiet. There’s also a sauna and a nearby REWE convenience store, which is super handy. Perfect for an overnight stay.


Steigenberger Airport Hotel – Best rated 4-star

📍Location: 2min walk to the airport ⭐ Rating: 8.8 | 11,500+ reviews

Ideal location, just steps away from the Brandenburg Airport terminals and the train station, with ICE and S-Bahn connections right there. The rooms are spacious and genuinely comfortable, and it really doesn’t feel like a typical airport hotel. There’s also a spa with a great sauna, on-site restaurants, and a delicious breakfast (definitely not the standard airport breakfast you usually get).

FAQs about where to stay in Berlin

Where is the best area to stay in Berlin?

The best area to stay in Berlin is Mitte. Centrally located, it provides easy access to top attractions such as the Brandenburg Gate, Museum Island, and the Berlin TV Tower. With excellent transport links, and great shopping and dining options, Mitte is ideal for first-time visitors.

Is Alexanderplatz a good place to stay?

Yes, Alexanderplatz is a good area to stay in Berlin. It’s a major transport hub with excellent connections to the rest of the city and beyond. The area is also close to key attractions like the Berlin TV Tower and Museum Island, making it convenient for tourists.

Is Charlottenburg a good place to stay in Berlin?

I don’t recommend staying in Charlottenburg if you’re visiting Berlin for the first time or sightseeing. The neighbourhood is more residential and less central compared to areas like Mitte or Alexanderplatz. It’s farther from major tourist attractions and has fewer transport connections to the heart of the city.

Is Mitte a good area in Berlin?

Yes, Mitte is an excellent area to stay in Berlin. It’s the city’s most central district, offering great public transport links and a wide range of shopping and dining options. Stay here if you want to be within walking distance of all major attractions like the Brandenburg Gate, Museum Island, and the Berlin TV Tower.

Pin for later

where to stay in berlin first time
best places to stay in berlin

Last updated:


About the author

Milena Yordanova

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *