Berlin is the kind of city which offers something for every explorer. This Berlin city guide aims to be the place where you can find everything that is required for you to know before going to Berlin. From geography, budget & expenses, universities,student life and accommodation we’ll cover it all.
About Berlin
Berlin is the capital of Germany and has a rich history and culture. It is famous for important landmarks like the Brandenburg Gate and the Berlin Wall, which represent the country’s reunification.
With more than 3.8 million people living there, Berlin is one of Europe’s most diverse and lively cities. It offers many museums, cultural activities, and plenty of parks and green areas. The city provides a good balance of work, study, and leisure for both students and residents. Berlin’s strong economy and role as a center for innovation make it a great place for education and career opportunities.
Berlin’s Geography
Berlin is located in northeastern Germany along the Spree and Havel rivers. It is the largest city in Germany, covering about 891 square kilometers. The city includes a mix of buildings, forests, and rivers, with about 18% of the area made up of parks and water.
Weather in Berlin
Berlin offers four distinct seasons. Summers, which are usually warm. Average temperatures go around 22°C (72°F), but can sometimes rise higher. Winters are cold and can drop below freezing. Average temperatures go around 0°C (32°F).
Spring and autumn are mild and often comfortable, with cool mornings and warmer afternoons. Rain is fairly evenly spread throughout the year, so it’s a good idea to keep an umbrella handy no matter the season. Overall, Berlin’s weather is typical for northern Europe, with enough variety to enjoy different activities year-round.
Study in Berlin
Berlin offers many prestigious universities which are among the best universities globally. According to the QS World University Rankings 2025, Universities of Berlin constantly ranked within the top 150 worldwide.
This city attracts over 200,000 students every year, making it one of the go to cities for students. It has the best landscape for international students as well because of its balanced lifestyle for students.
Why Study in Berlin
The education of Berlin is top-notch not only because the city is home to some of Germany’s best universities but also because it attracts many international students worldwide.
The cost of living is also low from any other major European cities, making it an affordable choice for students. Plus, Berlin’s diverse population means you’ll find a welcoming environment and opportunities to meet people from all over the world.
Top Universities in Berlin
Here are the top 3 universities in Berlin:
1. Freie Universität Berlin (FU Berlin)
Global Rank- 97th
This university is renowned for its research and also for programs in natural sciences, humanities, psychology and social sciences.
2. Humboldt University of Berlin
Global Rank- 126th
This is one of the oldest universities in Germany. It offers a wide range of courses in medical, natural sciences, and humanities.
3. Technische Universität Berlin
Global Rank: 147th
It is one of the top leading technical universities. It is well known for its engineering, computer science and natural sciences programs. Also it is well renowned for its applied research and innovation.
If you need more options, head to our blog Top universities in Germany and discover more.
Student Accommodation in Berlin
In this guide, we will discuss student accommodation in detail because it is a very important factor in changing the country. In Berlin, you can find off-campus student housing at affordable rates and near the universities.
Best Areas in Berlin for Students
Let’s introduce you to the best areas in Berlin where you can find your housing.
1. Kreuzberg
It is one of the most popular cities for students because of its vibrant culture, lively arts scene, trendy cafes, and affordable housing options. It's a hub for creative students. This area is home to many universities and also offers great transportation facilities.
2. Friedrichshain
Here you can find student friendly accommodation. This city is a mix of affordability and entertainment so most students who find universities nearby settle here. This city is also known for its nightlife
3. Prenzlauer Berg
While it has become more upscale in recent years, it still offers great spots for students to live and enjoy the city’s vibrant culture. This area is known for its relaxed atmosphere, lush green spaces and variety of restaurants.
4. Mitte
This area is at the center of the city and because it is called the heart of the city. It is a bit costlier but it offers a convenient location with easy access to everything. One of the top universities, Humboldt University is here in this area. It's also home to many cultural landmarks, museums, and universities.
5. Neukölln
It has a growing community of international students and that is why facilities are increasing rapidly for students. This city has a strong sense of multi-culturism and community. It offers affordable living options while still being close to major universities.
Top 10 Berlin Accomodations
You can find a wide range of accommodations in Berlin. There are many affordable and easy to commute areas in Berlin. In this there is a lot which you can find nearby these areas so you would not have to travel a lot for normal shopping.
Living in Berlin
Berlin offers a vibrant and affordable living space because of that it appeals to many students. The charm of this city is its cultural events, music festivals, and art galleries.
For living and enjoying, there is so much to do in Berlin. You will never get bored of exploring this city.
Cost of Living in Berlin
Berlin is known for being one of the most affordable major European cities.
- Rent: €600–€900 for a shared apartment or student dormitory
- Groceries: Around €200–€300
- Public Transport: €86 for a monthly student pass covering buses, trams, and trains
- Eating Out: €8–€15 for a meal at an inexpensive restaurant.
- Utilities & Internet: €100–€150 (often included in rent for student housing)
- Leisure & Miscellaneous: €100–€150
While rent varies depending on the area and type of accommodation, overall, Berlin offers good value for students balancing budget and quality of life. For more information you can check the detailed cost of living in Berlin.
Places to visit in Berlin
Berlin is one of the reasons people go to Germany. Its enticing culture, history, and modern architecture is something that attracts tourists and students. There are many places to visit and many things to do in Berlin. For every type of person, Berlin offers something.
If you’d like to explore Berlin’s top attractions in an easy and affordable way, you can also consider using the Berlin City Pass by MegaPass. It gives you access to the city’s most popular landmarks and experiences, including hop-on-hop-off bus tours and river cruises, helping you discover Berlin at your own pace while saving both time and money. Perfect for students looking to make the most of their stay.
Check Best places to visit in Berlin , if you are planning to visit Berlin.
Apart from the places there are many things you can plan to go to in Berlin if you are an explorer and like adventure.
Conclusion
Berlin is a city that perfectly balances the old and the new, offering an exciting and enriching experience for students. From its top-ranked universities and affordable living costs to its diverse culture and vibrant social scene, Berlin is an ideal place to live and study.
Whether you’re exploring historical landmarks, enjoying its lively arts scene, or meeting people from all over the world, Berlin is a city that will make your student years unforgettable. With its welcoming environment, excellent public transport, and endless things to do, it’s no wonder so many students choose Berlin as their study destination.