Moving to Berlin – Things You Need to Know About Living in Berlin

Are you considering a move to Berlin or have to move there for work? Berlin is the German Capital and one of the biggest and most historical cities in Europe. That said, Berlin has so much more to offer in terms of living, culture, and lifestyle besides its history. Modern Berlin is a hive of culture, commerce, and sophistication with one of the best transport infrastructures in Germany.

Here are some of the things you need to know about living in Berlin before you move here.

1.      Learn the German Language

While Berlin is an international city with people from all over the world, it’s helpful to learn the native language. This is especially important if you plan to find a good job in the local businesses in Berlin. Don’t worry, you will find that a lot of people do speak English in Berlin, but it’s advised to start learning a bit of German from the get-go. It will help you to feel at home wherever you are in Berlin in the long run.

2.      Finding Accommodation

Being a big international metropolis, finding the right accommodation in Berlin can be challenging for people moving in for the first time. Accommodation in Berlin can be cheap or expensive, depending on the area you choose to live and where you look. Neighborhoods such as Moabit and Friedrichshain have affordable accommodation and are quite popular with newcomers while those looking for a classy community can find a place in Prenzlauer Berg, Schöneberg and other areas in the city.

Using an online portal such as HousingAnywhere is one of the best ways to find a place to live in Berlin. A lot of newcomers prefer to go for a fully furnished apartment in Berlin so that they don’t have to go through the hustle of buying furniture in an unfamiliar city. Find long-term furnished apartments in Berlin using the platform and book online before you travel. You will have a place ready for you when you move to one of the city’s districts.

3.      Carrying Cash in Berlin

One of the things that confuse most newcomers to Berlin and Germany in general is the use of cash. Germans have always been skeptical about the use of Cards and credit cards for daily transactions. This is a trend that has refused to catch on in this sophisticated country. Be prepared to carry cash around if you plan to make Berlin your permanent home as credit cards are rarely accepted outside tourist areas and upmarket locations in Berlin.

4.      Healthcare in Berlin

Berlin, as with many other cities in Germany, offer world-class healthcare for its residents. You will be entitled to proper healthcare as a resident of Berlin. Should you choose to live and work in Berlin permanently, you will be required to have some health insurance.

5.      Transportation in Berlin

As you may already know, Berlin has a sophisticated public transport system consisting of metro trams, metro buses, the Stadtschnellbahn or S-Bahn (fast train) and the U-Bahn. You can be assured of affordable public transportation wherever you live in Berlin. The road network is also pretty good if you prefer to drive.

Willkommen in Berlin!