You can get by well in English in Berlin. In the tech scene, in restaurants, in supermarkets: English works almost everywhere. Still, German significantly improves everyday life. When dealing with authorities, on the phone with government offices, at the doctor's, with the landlord: anyone with even basic knowledge experiences less friction. And Berlin is a good city to learn German, because the range of language courses and learning opportunities is huge.
Why learn German in Berlin?
German is the official language, and you notice this at the latest when you have to go to the Bürgeramt, read a rental agreement, or receive a letter from the Finanzamt. Even a little language knowledge helps significantly in these situations. Furthermore, German opens social doors: contacts with German colleagues, with the neighbourhood, with neighbours. Anyone staying in Berlin longer than a year benefits greatly from German skills.
Language schools in Berlin
Berlin has dozens of language schools offering German courses at all levels. From A1 for absolute beginners to C2 for near-native level. Course formats vary widely: intensive courses with four to six hours of lessons daily, evening courses for working professionals, weekend courses, and online formats.
Provider type |
Advantage |
Cost (approx.) |
Private language school (Goethe, Berlitz) |
Structured, certified |
300 to 800 EUR per month |
VHS Berlin (Volkshochschule) |
Affordable, good quality |
50 to 200 EUR per course |
Online course (Babbel, Duolingo) |
Flexible, cheap |
0 to 15 EUR per month |
Tandem partner |
Free, authentic |
0 EUR |
Private tutor |
Individual, fast |
30 to 80 EUR per hour |
Integration course (BAMF) |
Free for those eligible |
Free or very cheap |
The Volkshochschule Berlin
The Volkshochschule Berlin is one of the best and most affordable options for German courses. The VHS offers courses in all Berlin districts at very affordable prices. A course with 60 teaching hours often costs under 100 euros. The quality of the teachers varies but is generally good. Ideal for anyone who wants to learn in a structured way without spending a lot of money.
Tandem learning
One of the most effective and cost-free methods: tandem learning. You meet with a German native speaker who wants to learn another language, and split the time equally between both languages. Berlin's tandem apps and groups are well connected. Tandem is especially helpful for everyday life, because you practise the spoken language, not just the written one.
Integration courses
For non-EU citizens with a residence permit, there are state-funded integration courses organised by the Bundesamt für Migration und Flüchtlinge (BAMF). These courses are free or very affordable and include both language instruction and orientation knowledge about Germany. Anyone eligible should definitely make use of this option.
Online learning as a supplement
Apps like Duolingo, Babbel, or AnkiDroid are well suited as a supplement to a course, but not as the sole learning method. They are ideal for daily vocabulary practice and for refreshing basic knowledge. Anyone who wants to seriously learn German needs speaking practice and feedback, which apps alone cannot provide.
Anyone interested in life in Berlin who is still looking for accommodation: at furnished apartments in Berlin you can find furnished apartments in various districts.
Conclusion
Berlin offers excellent opportunities to learn German: affordable VHS courses, free tandem options, and state integration courses. Anyone who proceeds in a structured way and practises regularly can achieve solid everyday knowledge within a year.
Frequently asked questions
1. How long does it take to learn German?
For solid everyday knowledge (B1 level), most people need six to twelve months of regular learning. Anyone who learns daily and has a lot of contact with the language progresses faster.
2. What does a German course in Berlin cost?
This varies greatly. The VHS offers courses from around 50 euros. Private language schools cost 300 to 800 euros per month. Online apps are often free or very affordable.
3. Which course is suitable for beginners?
A VHS course or an intensive course at a private language school are good entry points. Anyone eligible should make use of the BAMF integration course.
4. Can you live in Berlin in English without learning German?
Yes, this works well in everyday life. However, German is significantly helpful with authorities, at the doctor's, and in some everyday situations.
5. What is a tandem course?
In tandem learning, you practise with a native speaker who, in turn, wants to learn your native language. Learning time is split equally. It is free and very effective for speaking practice.
Guide: Expat Guide Berlin