From cheap beer to more galleries than days of the year, there are many reasons why Berlin is a great city for a university student to live in. Check out some of the best reasons below.
1. Affordability
Despite its size and international reputation, Berlin is by far one of the most affordable capital cities in western Europe to live in. So, if you choose to study there, you can worry a little less about living costs.
And best of all: beer is often cheaper than bottled water in Berlin.
2. Central location
You’ll probably want to travel and explore as much of Europe as possible whilst studying, especially if you’re not originally from the continent. And even if you are from Europe, no one wants to be stuck in the same city semester after semester.
Berlin is the perfect city for someone who wants to travel and explore Europe during their study years. Because of the city’s central location, travelling across Europe couldn’t be easier, and it doesn’t have to break the bank either. In addition to flying, Berlin also has great bus and train connections to many other European cities.
3. International vibe
Berlin is a melting pot of world cultures. Both in terms of visitors and long-term residents, it’s by far the most international city in Germany. As a student in Berlin, you’ll be spoilt for choice when it comes to international cuisine and cultural activities. Making friends from all over the world will be easy in a city as international as Berlin.
4. Arts
From galleries with world-class collections to modern-day street art, Berlin is home to a diverse arts scene. There are more than 440 galleries in the city. In other words, you’d need to visit more than one gallery each day if you wanted to see all of Berlin’s galleries in a year.
And when it comes to street art, you can easily while away your weekends checking out murals and graffiti around the city. There’s just so much to see. Make sure to check out the East Side Gallery that features murals painted on the longest surviving section of the Berlin Wall.
5. History
As one of the 20th century’s most tumultuous capital cities, Berlin is filled with history. From historic World War II sites, to Checkpoint Charlie and the Berlin Wall Memorial, there is a huge number of must-see historic spots. Even if you’re not a big history buff, you’ll surely enjoy the history in Berlin.
The history of Berlin did not start during World War II though: the earliest traces of human settlement in the area are from 60,000 BC. and Berlin itself was officially founded in 1237. So in addition to 20th century history, you can also experience history from much further back as well.
6. Cool student digs
With trendy student apartments, you can live in true style in Berlin. On Student.com we list lots of great options for student accommodation in Berlin, both in the east and west sides of the city, as well as in the city centre. Many of the apartments we list are also located within walking distance of Berlin’s universities, so getting from your home to campus will be quick and easy.
7. Startup scene
Berlin has attracted so many entrepreneurs and so much talent over the years, that it is now home to thousands of startup companies. Even with the Covid-19 pandemic slowing down the startup scene a little, over 500 new startups were founded in Berlin in 2022. This was the highest number of cities in Germany. There’s also a lot of money going around in the Berlin startup scene: in 2022, all startups in Berlin put together raised almost 5 billion euros of venture capital.
So whether you need to find a company for a university project or you’re looking for an internship, there are plenty of exciting startups to approach in Berlin.
Heading to Berlin for your studies? Find the best Berlin student accommodation on our website.