Where to work in Berlin
Maybe a slightly strange one to post about just now but if, like me, you are looking for inspiration for when we come out of lockdown, this one's for you.
The last trip I took abroad was to Berlin at the beginning of March for ITB Berlin and Berlin Travel Festival. Unfortunately it was cancelled at short notice, but that didn't mean we couldn't take advantage of the time to explore the city and the work hubs available. As I mentioned in my previous Berlin post, this city is well-equipped for creatives and remote workers so just Google search "cafes with wifi Berlin" and you'll have a plethora to choose from.
Generally speaking, Germany is not one of my favourite places to use for public transport - it's a large city with slow links. So some of these places might be a little concentrated in certain areas ie walking distance of my hostel for example. Another thing is that if you're not used to London prices, some of these places might not be for you and you're probably better off getting an AirBnB or a hostel with a lounge. You do get what you pay for, but unless you're used to spending on these things already ie you work in busy cities anyway, you could be in for a shock.
The first stop after I got off the plane. If you're staying in Mitte it's well-located between Metros, pubs and various accommodations. Grabbing a corner spot with a plug, I was able to get my bearings from here easily with a good strong coffee and pastry (London-type prices). Wifi was strong and I could get on with no interruptions.
This location seemed popular for small businesses and freelancers and had a similar vibe to Second Home in Brick Lane or Campus London when anyone could access it.
Digital Eatery (Microsoft)
My sister and I stumbled across this cafe last time we were in town on the way to the park and it immediately stuck with me. I'm pretty sure I said to her at the time that I'd love to come back and work there.
With Microsoft products to play with, video games and a full menu to choose from, you can easily spend all day here - similar to St Oberholz you will pay London-ish prices though. Personally, I happily set up here all day with no issue making calls either.
Just a slight warning, it did get busy around lunchtime with what seemed like city-worker types - likely people based in offices above, but other than that I had no trouble getting a seat.
In the hipster Kreuzberg area, I didn't stop in here too long while waiting for a friend. If you plan on being in the area for the day, then get here early as anyone with a laptop will (understandably) be asked to sit at particular tables. Which they seem to fill very quickly. Expect London prices, but good wifi and a sort of Tate Modern vibe.
Remember how I said Berlin is frustrating to use public transport for? So after trains and a bus to get to one Betahaus, I ended up at the paid-for coworking space in a very remote part of town ie very irregular public transport.
While the Betahaus I meant to get to did not disappoint and had a decent veggie menu for lunch, I could have definitely done without the pricey Uber to get there. A little cheaper for coffee, this was a great place to spend a quiet Friday afternoon finishing up for the week. A warehouse-y hipster vibe.
And there you have it, a couple of places to get you started on your remote worker journey in Berlin.
There were of course many other places I could have picked, but as I wanted to reduce travel time as much as possible, I stuck to similar areas. There were a couple of days I also stayed in the hostel common area (Generator Mitte) both to save travel time - and maybe possibly thanks to the odd hangover from one of the creator parties that were on each night...
Is there anywhere you would add?
Han x