How to choose a city to live in Germany: tips and reviews from locals

Moving to Germany: Choosing a City

If you're thinking about moving to Germany but haven't yet decided on the best city to live in, it's only natural. With over two thousand cities in the country, the choice can sometimes seem daunting. Our detailed analysis will help you understand better: we've collected local reviews from various interesting German cities so you can familiarize yourself with their lifestyles, as well as evaluate the pros and cons of living in each.

Nature and quality of life

Germany is known for its high standard of living and stunning natural landscapes — from picturesque beaches to dense forests, as well as the majestic Alpine mountains. However, it should be noted that life in Germany offers a variety of experiences, and each place is unique in its own way. Undoubtedly, everyone can find their perfect refuge here.

Five-city overview

In our review, we highlighted five important cities: Berlin, Munich, Hamburg, Stuttgart, and Leipzig, and spoke with locals to understand what it's like to live in each of them.

Berlin - the capital with a unique atmosphere

Let's start with Berlin — the capital of the country and one of the most popular cities in the world. This metropolis is an amazing blend of cultures and various styles, and it has become a center of art and creativity. Here, ancient buildings harmoniously coexist with modern constructions. Berlin is famous for its motto "poor but sexy": although it may seem less affluent than other major cities in Germany, its unique atmosphere and spirit attract many people.

This largest city in Europe is home to nearly four million residents. Each of the twelve districts of the capital has its own character and atmosphere. The main attractions are concentrated in the Mitte district, where the Brandenburg Gate and Museum Island are located. The nightlife in Berlin is extraordinarily vibrant: fans of electronic music from all over the world gather in various clubs, many of which are located in abandoned industrial buildings. It's no wonder that the British magazine Telegraph named Berlin the "most fun" city on the planet — you definitely won't be bored here.

Cost of living in Berlin

Speaking of life in Berlin, it is worth noting that the cost of living here is relatively low compared to other capitals in Western Europe. For example,average incomeThe average income of a resident of the capital is about €3,150 per month, andstudio apartment for rentIt will cost you between €900 and €1200 per month; the total living expenses, including rent, can reach around €2000 a month.

Berlin Zoo

A unique aspect of Berlin is its zoo, which has become the largest and most famous in the world. Founded in 1844, it covers an area of over 35 hectares in the central Tiergarten district. We chatted with Alena, a Berlin resident who has been living here for 7.5 years, and she shared her impressions of life in this city.

Pros and cons of living in Berlin

Here is her opinion on the pros and cons of living in Berlin:

• Pros:Berlin is characterized by its diversity and internationality; it has a creative atmosphere where everyone can feel free and comfortable.
• Disadvantages:However, there are some things to consider. For example, there are neighborhoods that may seem less cozy to live in.

Conclusion

Thus, life in Berlin is vibrant and diverse, and its unique atmosphere attracts both residents and tourists from all over the world. Your final choice of city will depend on your personal preferences, but Berlin definitely offers something special for everyone.

In Berlin, you can totally be yourself and no one will judge your style. Here, the city's transportation infrastructure is at a high level: streetcars, buses, regional trains, subway and river streetcars make getting around the city as convenient as possible. You can get to any point of the capital in a short 30-60 minutes, which is especially pleasing for locals and tourists alike.

Original cafes

Some cafes attract attention with their original concepts, as their interiors are decorated with materials that would normally go to landfill. Berlin recognizes the importance of recycling by using old but stylish furniture - various boards and slate get a second life in the decor.

Culinary culture

The city's culinary scene is impressive, offering dishes from all corners of the world. In spring, Berlin's streets are filled with delicate pink hues thanks to the cherry blossoms that Japan gave to the city as a token of friendship after the fall of the Berlin Wall. It is one of the greenest metropolises in Europe, with many parks, lakes and the Spree River.

Disadvantages of the city

Nevertheless, there are some disadvantages to the city. In some areas of Berlin you can find neglected areas, and garbage sometimes gets in your eyes: under bridges, on crosswalks and at stations you can encounter unpleasant odors. In addition, there are many homeless people and beggars in the city, which sometimes creates a feeling of discomfort, especially at the stations. There are also "freaks" who may behave inappropriately - shouting, damaging property or leaving traces of their presence in the most unexpected places.

Tips for tourists

Tourists should keep a close eye on their belongings.Berlin has been perceived as one of the most affordable cities in Germany. When it comes to the cost of living, Berlin was initially perceived as one of the most affordable cities in Germany. However, since 2014, due to the influx of refugees, housing and food prices have skyrocketed.

Housing and food prices

For example, if in 2015 the rent for a two-bedroom apartment ranged from 500 to 750 euros, today that price has at least doubled. Food expenses have also increased:

• In the past, one person needed only 75-150 euros a week.
• This amount has now risen to 150-300 euros.

A family of three will need at least3000 euros per monthto live comfortably and fulfill some desires.

Entertainment and leisure activities

In terms of leisure, Berlin offers entertainment for every taste. There are numerous nightclubs and around 150 museums that provide residents and tourists with plenty of opportunities for cultural enrichment. The capital is home to two zoos, as well as beautiful gardens like Garten der Welt, Botanischer Garten, and Britzer Garten. The city regularly hosts various exhibitions, theater performances, and film screenings.

Sports events

Sports events have also not gone unnoticed. The capital has everything: from bungee jumping to swimming in the Spree, and the Berlin Marathon is known for setting world records. In Berlin, you can also enjoy a peaceful picnic in one of the many parks or go horseback riding along picturesque forest trails.

Proximity to nature

Outside the city you can pick berries and fruits in fields and orchards - the fee is only for a basket, and the rest can be eaten in any quantity. This creates an incredible feeling of freedom and harmony with nature in this large and noisy metropolis.

The unique architecture of Berlin

In Berlin, one can discover a variety of original architectural styles. The city went through difficult trials during World War II and remained divided into East and West for a long time, which contributed to the formation of a unique building style that creates a special atmosphere. Within the city and its surroundings, there are magnificent royal residences. For example, in Potsdam, there is the famous Sanssouci Palace complex, which, fortunately, survived the destruction of the war.

Street art and festivals

Berlin is also famous for its street art and graffiti. There are tours dedicated to the most famous murals and street artists. In October, the city hosts a festival of lights, during which historical and modern buildings are transformed by various light projects, creating an unforgettable atmosphere.

Life in Berlin

Nadezhda shares her experience of living in Berlin, highlighting many positive aspects:

• This is a large, dynamic, and green city.
• The city offers everything you need for a comfortable life.
• Despite its size, Berlin retains a laid-back atmosphere.

The city is very pet-friendly; however, dog owners must use leashes outside of designated areas (although many ignore this rule).

Developed infrastructure

The infrastructure in Berlin is well-developed, allowing residents to avoid traveling to the center for shopping or coffee – stores and cafes are available in every neighborhood. The city has many bodies of water where boats and ferries operate. The Russian-speaking community is also actively organizing events, concerts, and meetups. People living in Berlin are generally very pleasant, and the level of rudeness is lower than, for example, in Bavaria.

Culinary delights

The culinary diversity will pleasantly surprise even the most demanding gourmets - there are restaurants for every taste and purse. For example, taking a takeaway lunch for 4 euros is not at all uncommon. In addition, stores are often open until 22:00, which is unusual for Germany. The popular culture of "spätis" - 24-hour grocery stores with reasonable prices - has been around since the GDR days, when workers returned from the factories and needed quick access to food.

Lifestyle

Everyone will find their unique lifestyle in Berlin:

• From the glamorous life on Kurfürstendamm with its boutiques.
• Before the art communes in Neukölln.
• Or one can retreat to the countryside and engage in farming.

Each neighborhood has its own characteristics, and it's impossible to say it's just a city - Berlin is made up of many unique places and cultures.

A sense of coziness

Moreover, the capital gives a sense of coziness, especially when you get lost in its diversity – it reminds one of the atmosphere of St. Petersburg. For families with children, Berlin offers excellent conditions: playgrounds and parks at every turn, making life in this city comfortable. Currently, Berlin still remains relatively affordable, and many airlines offer budget flights to various corners of the world.

Disadvantages of Berlin

Despite its many advantages, Berlin is not without its drawbacks. Many neighborhoods do not look particularly clean and cozy, and there is an impression of excess garbage. Public transport can seem untidy, and the crime rate here is higher than in other European cities, although such cases are rare. Additionally, it sometimes feels like there is no clear center, as Mitte resembles more of a point on a map than a true center.

The unique atmosphere of Western Germany

The western part of Germany has a special atmosphere that is appreciated by many people. When it comes to Berlin, it should be noted that it is not the richest city in the country, and this becomes clear in its various corners. In 2023, Germany experienced a sharp drop in real estate prices, which was the most serious decline in 23 years. In this light, Munich becomes a field for in-depth analysis, as it represents not only the capital of Bavaria, but also a world-renowned center of beer culture.

Munich's historical roots

The city was founded by Benedictine monks, which is still reflected in the life of this place — you can encounter monks quite often here. Munich is a unique space where you can enjoy industrial romance while strolling through historic medieval streets. The brewing traditions in Munich are unmatched anywhere on Earth. This is not only due to the famous Oktoberfest held in the city but also because beer has been an integral part of the local culture for seven centuries. This is beautifully showcased by numerous large breweries and atmospheric beer gardens.

Cultural life of the city

Another important aspect of Munich is its vibrant cultural life. The city is home to artistic districts like Kunstareal, as well as renowned museums, among which the Old and New Pinakothek stand out. You can also visit specialized museums dedicated to Oktoberfest, porcelain, and the famous car manufacturer BMW, which is also linked to the history of Munich.

Comfort and standard of living in Munich

An interesting fact: in 2018, the reputable British magazine Monocle named Munich the most comfortable city to live in the world. However, to live comfortably here, a decent income is necessary, as living in Munich turns out to be quite expensive compared to other German cities. The average salary of local residents is about 3,450 euros per month, while the rent for a one-bedroom apartment ranges from 1,100 to 1,350 euros. Total living expenses, including rent, amount to around 2,350 euros per month.

The spirit of Munich

The main word that embodies the spirit of this amazing city is —coziness.

Munich: A Million-People Village with Unique Charm

Munich, often referred to as the "Village of a Million", is known for its unique charm, despite the fact that the total number of inhabitants is approximately 1 million 600 thousand. The city does not surprise with high-rises or bulky buildings, but instead offers many bike paths that are popular with locals and visitors alike. An important part of the Munich lifestyle are the beer gardens, where you can gather in large groups, enjoying an atmosphere of friendship and fun.

Culture and traditions of the people of Munich

The residents of Munich live with pride, supporting their original culture. At any time of the year, especially during holidays, you can see people in traditional German costumes called "tracht" on the streets. Men usually opt for leather shorts, while women prefer beautiful dresses.

The abundance of green spaces and the proximity of the Alps add to the city's appeal for both residents and tourists. Just 80 kilometers from Munich, picturesque mountain ranges stretch out, offering memorable summer hiking trails, while in winter, the skiing opportunities delight winter sports enthusiasts.

Nature and outdoor activities

In addition, there are many clear lakes in the vicinity of the city. These places are ideal for recreation, water sports or leisurely boat trips.

The challenges of living in Munich

Nevertheless, Munich has its drawbacks as well. It is considered the most expensive city in Germany. Although the salary levels here are high, the cost of housing is astonishing. For example, apartments in Munich are twice as expensive as in Berlin, with an average price per square meter of around...10 thousand euros.

• High population density: there are about 5,000 people per square kilometer.
• The population is projected to grow to 1 million 800 thousand residents by 2030.
• Issues with space in public parks during the summer leisure season.

Additionally, the city faces constant traffic jams, especially during the holiday season when many head to the mountains or travel to Italy. The issue of parking spaces in Munich occurs on a systematic basis.

Hamburg: An Ancient and Dynamic City

Now it's time to pay attention to Hamburg, which is also involved in our narrative. This ancient yet always dynamic city is located on the Elbe River. Hamburg is the largest port in Germany and is famous for its many bridges and canals — there are nearly 2,500 of them.

The city has about 2 million residents who can enjoy green parks and gardens, as well as a vibrant cultural life. There are unique museums, ancient churches, and bustling bars and clubs.

Cultural events in Hamburg

Every winter, Hamburg becomes the venue for the Venetian masquerade "Magic of Masks," immersing participants in the atmosphere of bygone times.

Cost of living in Hamburg

It is important to note that, despite the high cost of living, residents can enjoy a variety of food and leisure activities available for people with any financial means.

Overview of the cost of living in Hamburg

As an illustration, a standard meal at the popular restaurant chain "McDonald's" can cost around 8 euros. At the same time, a more economical meal at a modest café for one person usually costs about 11 euros. If you plan to spend the evening at a high-end restaurant, be prepared to spend approximately 57 euros for dinner for two, including drinks.

Average income and housing expenses

The average income in this city is around 3000 euros per month. When it comes to rent, a one-bedroom apartment costs between 750 and 1000 euros monthly. Therefore, the overall cost of living in Hamburg, including rent, will be approximately 1850 euros per month.

Cultural features of Hamburg

One of the defining features of the city is its famous fish market, known as the Fischmarkt, which has gained popularity since its opening in 1703. Ivan, who has lived here for 8 years, shared with us about life in this amazing city. He emphasizes that one of the main advantages of living in Hamburg is the ease of traveling around Europe.

Availability of travel

Germany is located in the very heart of the continent, which allows for a quick drive to neighboring countries.

Quality of life

It is also worth noting the excellent quality of life in Hamburg:

• Good working conditions.
• Decent salaries.
• Spacious and comfortable housing at reasonable prices.

The political situation in this city is calm and stable, which instills confidence in the work of the local law enforcement agencies.

Medical care

When it comes to medicine, there are both positive and negative aspects.

• Positive:The health insurance system ensures access to treatment even for serious illnesses like cancer.
• Negative:Residents of the city may face long wait times for doctor appointments and a shortage of experienced specialists.

Prices for goods and services

The prices for food in Hamburg are quite reasonable, allowing for a diverse diet. However, the cost of services is higher, as labor costs in the country are significant. One should be prepared to face considerable expenses in the following areas:

• Medical insurance.
• Taxes.
• Fuel prices.
• Repairs.

Local residents often choose bicycles as a means of transportation to avoid the high costs of maintaining a car.

General conclusion

Thus, it can be concluded that in order to feel healthy, full, and happy in Hamburg, you won't need to make significant financial investments. However, if you want to spend time on entertainment or surround yourself with luxury, it's worth preparing a budget in advance for larger expenses.

Stuttgart: a city of historical and cultural treasures

Now let's move to Stuttgart — a city known for its elegant palaces and as a center of the automotive industry in Germany. It is the administrative center of the state of Baden-Württemberg, with a population of over 600,000 people. Stuttgart will delight true wine connoisseurs as well as car enthusiasts.

Industrial achievements

Here are the offices and production facilities of major companies such as Bosch, Porsche, and Mercedes-Benz. Additionally, picturesque vineyards and valleys surround Stuttgart, making it not only an industrial hub but also a cultural heart of the region.

Cultural heritage

The city skillfully combines modernity and historical heritage, offering residents and guests amazing opportunities for a rich and engaging life.

Wine village in Stuttgart

Every summer, an amazing event takes place in Stuttgart — a wine village where guests can sample over 500 different wines produced in renowned regions like Baden and Württemberg. The picturesque hills surrounding the city make it even more appealing, although they can sometimes pose certain challenges. The views from above are stunning, but navigating the winding paths can become somewhat more difficult and cumbersome.

Traditional Swabian dishes

Don't miss the chance to try traditional Swabian dishes — they are a true heritage of the local culture. Among the popular treats are:

• Flädlesuppe— a hearty soup with pancakes;
• Maultaschen— a unique type of dumplings filled with meat, potatoes, and spinach;
• Kirschwasser— cherry schnapps with a delicate almond aroma.

Earnings and cost of living

The average monthly income in Stuttgart is approximately €3,350, but renting a home has its own realities - costs can range from €800 to €1000 per month. Overall, taking all costs into account, living in this city will cost around €1,760 monthly, including rent.

Local delicacies

Special attention should be paid to local delicacies, such asMaultaschen...which were recognized as a protected gastronomic product in 2009, highlighting their significance for the region. We spoke with Olesya, who has been living in Stuttgart for 12 years, and she shared her experiences of life here.

Life in Stuttgart

According to her, Stuttgart is a wonderful place with great opportunities. If you speak German, adapting will be quite easy. The city has a multicultural population, and many of its residents communicate in German, even though it is not their native language. Olesya was able to compare her life in Stuttgart with the experience she had in America, where one language predominates, but the local population is also quite diverse.

Conditions for children

She emphasized that one of the significant factors influencing her decision to move to this city was the excellent conditions for children. In this regard, Stuttgart has everything well thought out: a huge number of clubs, courses, and events for young people, where everyone can find an activity they enjoy.

City infrastructure

The urban infrastructure is also at a high level. Even without a car, it's convenient to get around here, as finding a parking spot, especially in the center, is quite difficult, and parking rates are high.

Economic realities

Currently, there is a rise in prices worldwide, and Germany is no exception. Interest rates on loans are increasing, and the costs of electricity and heating have significantly gone up. It has become difficult to purchase property in Stuttgart even for people with average incomes.

Housing rental

As for renting, prices vary depending on the area and type of housing (social or private). For example, a 90 square meter social apartment in old buildings can be rented for €1000 plus utilities, which is quite a reasonable option. The cost of renting modern housing is usually higher - at the moment the price for four-room apartments (not social) starts at €2000.

Life in Stuttgart and Leipzig

In Stuttgart, a family of four needs a budget of at least 3000 euros per month for comfortable living and occasional outings to cultural events, taking taxes into account. However, the focus will be on Leipzig — an important city in Saxony, located in the very heart of Germany.

Unique nicknames of Leipzig

Leipzig is often referred to as the "German Prague," the "Little Venice," and even the "German Paris." This city is rightfully honored as an architectural capital, where you can find numerous historical monuments designed in various architectural styles. It's no surprise that the city's slogan is "Leipzig: the land of diversity."

Population and cultural achievements

Leipzig has a population of approximately 570,000 people. The city is famous for its fairs, which began in the 12th century and continue to be held successfully to this day. Among other merits, it is known for its university, which has been a place of study for such outstanding figures as:

• Friedrich Nietzsche
• Johann Wolfgang von Goethe
• Angela Merkel

Transportation and accessibility

The geographical location of Leipzig is very favorable and the transportation system is well developed. The city offers a variety of transportation options:

• reliable automotive connections
• railway routes
• air communications

Leipzig has an international airport, making access to other regions much easier. Walking and cycling are also convenient ways for locals and tourists to get around. Despite its proximity to Berlin, life in Leipzig remains budget-friendly.

Financial aspects of life in Leipzig

For example, the average salary is 2250 euros per month, renting a one-bedroom apartment will cost you between 450-600 euros, and the overall cost of living, including rent, is about 1200 euros.

Culinary traditions

One of the main attractions of Leipzig is the restaurant "Auerbach's Cellar," which has become a historic meeting place for Faust and Mephistopheles from Goethe's famous work.

Personal experience of a resident

Irina, who has been living in Leipzig for eight years, shared her thoughts on life in Leipzig: "I like this city very much. It has everything I need: wonderful infrastructure, beautiful parks and water bodies, and a calm atmosphere typical of provincial places. I don't feel stressed all the time, public transportation is not crowded, and many residents prefer to ride bicycles, which creates a less gloomy environment.

The openness and friendliness of the local residents

She also noted that the residents of East Germany are more open and friendly. She compared her experience of interacting in Leipzig with living in Bonn and Schwäbisch Gmünd, and pointed out that it was easier for her to make new acquaintances here. Colleagues immediately invited her over and introduced her to other people, which made the atmosphere at work more comfortable.

The cost of renting housing in Leipzig is more reasonable compared to other major cities. Thus, Leipzig is an affordable and attractive city to live in, successfully combining comfort and diversity.

Conclusion

In conclusion, I want to say that life in Germany is more than just choosing a city. Every corner of this country offers its own unique experience, and I hope that our review will help you find the city that matches your expectations and lifestyle.

Berlin, Munich, Hamburg, Stuttgart, and Leipzig — each of these cities has its own characteristics, attractive features, and of course, its drawbacks.

• BerlinIt amazes with its eclecticism and energy; it is full of opportunities for growth and self-expression.
• Munich— it's coziness, comfort, and a high quality of life, but with its own price tag.
• HamburgWith its port traditions and cultural diversity, it offers a sea of impressions.
• Stuttgartpleases residents with excellent infrastructural conditions and natural beauty.
• LeipzigIt is becoming increasingly popular among young people for its creative spirit and affordable housing options.

Don't forget that, in addition to statistics and factual data, personal intuition is also important. Each of us is searching for our place in the world, and Germany offers many opportunities for that. Check your doubts, test different cities, meet locals, and immerse yourself in their culture. After all, it's these little things that create the life you dream of, leading you to a new country.

Therefore, when choosing a city to live in Germany, take your time and thoroughly research each option. Consider all the pros and cons, listen to the stories of those who have already experienced this, and don't hesitate to ask questions. Your new life in Germany should be exactly how you want it to be.

I believe that everyone can find their perfect place where they will feel as comfortable and happy as possible. Good luck to you on this exciting journey!