While the Germany's can be considered a generally straightforward capital, we certainly have some useful tips for remote workers in Berlin. Indeed, as an established center for tourism, business and expat life, Berlin has developed a great infrastructure to support visitors ensuring their time here is comfortable and pleasant. Of course, like most cities, there are certain peculiarities to living in Berlin, and remote workers will want to carry out their research and ensure they know what to expect once getting here. Below, we outline some of our top tips for remote workers in Berlin.
German is not an easy language but it is certainly useful if you want to truly experience Berlin and the rest of the country fully. You can expect high levels of English in the major German cities, but the art and nightlife scenes have a distinct German identity for which a handle of the language might be helpful. In general, it is a good idea to know at least some basic phrases in the local language, as this will help you navigate specific situations like dealing with your landlord or asking for directions. The capital is probably the best city in Germany to learn the language, which is why this is one of our most important tips for remote workers in Berlin.
With a huge international and expat community, one of our most valuable tips for remote workers in Berlin is to join one of the many available groups in the city. Being part of one of the main international groups will help you feel part of Berlin uniquely, and help greatly with making local and international friends. Importantly, the city’s groups will also provide remote workers here with fantastic networking and professional growth opportunities. You are also likely to be able to get some German language skills if you are surrounded by other Germans, and have the opportunity to see a more authentic side of Berlin.
Winters in Germany can be cold and gray, so an important tip for remote workers in Berlin will be to choose their time for visiting wisely! As seen on our Berlin homepage, summers in Berlin as vibrant and fun - lots of outdoor activities to be enjoyed along the Spree and in the city’s many local parks. Nonetheless, Christmas is also a wonderful time to be in Germany and experience the country’s emblematic street markets and fairs. Regardless of when you visit, the great thing about Berlin is that it is well-connected with the rest of Europe and you are always a short plane or train ride away from other major European destinations.
Berlin’s nightlife scene is among the most impressive and diverse in the world. Without a doubt, one of our top tips for remote workers in Berlin looking to completely experience the city is to dive into the many nightlife options available. Recent years have seen the rise of reggaetón, trap and pop in many of Berlin’s biggest clubs, but it is certainly techno and EDM that drives the nightclub scene in the city. Places like Berhgain and Treso are practically Berlin institutions when it comes to partying, and newer clubs like Pornceptual continue to draw on the local scene’s affinity for sex clubs and nudity.
Germany is certainly more than just beer and sausages. If you are a remote worker living in Berlin, you must delve deep into what the city says about German culture and the way it has grown and changed since the second half of the 20th century. Berlin is filled with incredible museums, historical monuments, galleries and fairs which chart and characterize the country’s past and present. If you can, get out of the city and visit some of Germany’s other incredible destinations including Munich, Hamburg and Frankfurt.
To the bewilderment even of Berliners, you should expect to find lots of stores which don’t accept credit or debit cards. If you plan on visiting cafés, local restaurants or small shops, always carry around some cash in small notes to ensure you are able to pay. Thankfully, Berlin has lots of easily accessible ATMs around the city.
For more information about living in Berlin as a remote worker, check out our complete Berlin guide.