Living like a Berliner

Berlin is a city that marches to the beat of its own drum. From the laid-back yet direct attitude of its residents to the thriving art scene and vibrant nightlife, living like a Berliner means embracing the city’s unique blend of individuality, practicality, and creativity. Here’s a glimpse into what makes this city—and its people—so distinct.

Attitude: Embracing the Berliner Way

When I first arrived in Berlin, one of the things that stood out was the laid-back yet straightforward attitude of Berliners. They’re open-minded and accepting, but don’t expect the same level of friendliness you might find in the U.S.—especially if you’re used to Southern hospitality like I was. Berliners tend to keep to themselves more, but they’re not unfriendly; they’re just direct. If you’re standing in the bike path, they’ll let you know. Berliners often come across as reserved and distant, preferring to keep to themselves rather than engage in small talk or overt friendliness. I noticed that the younger generation is a bit more chill, but that classic Berlin bluntness is something you quickly get used to.

Fashion?

Fashion in Berlin is something else—grunge, practical, vintage, and always comfortable. At first, I was struck by how much everyone seemed to conform to this dark, hipster, almost typical "Berlin" look. They aren’t afraid to express themselves through their outfits, though it often feels like everyone is drawing from the same playbook, resulting in a city where fashion is both unique and uniform. And yes, the German stare—where people look at you without hesitation and without looking away when caught—is part of the experience. It’s something that can be a little unnerving at first, but you get used to it.

Eating and Drinking: A Social Affair

One of my favorite things about living in Berlin was the eating and drinking culture. Unlike in the U.S., where eating out was often a special occasion, in Berlin, it’s a regular part of life. After work, it feels like there’s still a whole second half of the day left for socializing, grabbing dinner, or meeting friends for drinks. Cafes are always bustling, and restaurants start filling up around 5 or 6 p.m. I found myself really appreciating how Berliners balance work and life, and how eating and drinking are so integrated into that. The variety of food options, especially for vegetarians and vegans, was also a huge plus. And the drinking—well, let's just say the beer and wine are hard to resist.

Music and Nightlife: Techno’s Reign

Berlin’s music and nightlife are as integral to the city’s identity as its iconic landmarks. The city pulses with techno, a genre deeply woven into Berlin’s cultural fabric. From museums and galleries to the wild club scene, techno is the soundtrack of Berlin life. On a city tour, a guide explained how techno resonates with Berliners because it transcends language and cultural barriers, allowing everyone to connect through the rhythm. Techno's roots in Berlin date back to the late 1980s, when the fall of the Berlin Wall and the rise of underground clubs turned the city into a hub for electronic music. This musical movement mirrored Berlin’s own transformation, evolving from a gritty, post-industrial landscape to a vibrant, global metropolis. But if techno isn’t your thing, don’t worry; there are plenty of other options. Some clubs have rooms playing throwback pop hits or even hip-hop, though they’re not as common. And if you’re looking for something a bit more laid-back, there are jazz bars and smaller spots scattered throughout the city.

Public Transportation: My BFF

I absolutely loved Berlin’s public transportation system. The city is spread out, so walking everywhere isn’t always an option, but with buses, street trains, and underground trains, getting around is a breeze. The trains run frequently- every 3-5 minutes during busy hours and every 30-60 minutes during off-peak times, and while delays do happen, they’re usually resolved quickly. While it’s wise to stay aware of your surroundings, the trains are mostly reliable. I found the trains to be safe, too, even late at night. Sure, you might encounter some interesting characters, but as long as you keep to yourself, they’ll do the same. 

Outdoor Activities: Embracing the Sunshine

Berliners love being outdoors, especially when the sun is shining. After enduring the long, gray winter months, they make the most of the warmer weather by flocking to parks, lakes, and green spaces all over the city. I spent many weekends exploring places like Mauerpark, Tiergarten, and Tempelhofer Feld. These spots are not just for lounging; they’re filled with thrift markets, music, and events. And the lakes—Wannsee, Schlachtensee, Müggelsee—are perfect for a summer day out. Grunewald, in the southern part of the city, offers a more wooded escape, and if you’re up for a bit of urban exploration, Teufelsberg is nearby as well.

Social Etiquette: Direct

Berliners are known for their directness and honesty, which can sometimes come off as blunt. Small talk isn’t really a thing here, and privacy is highly valued. People tend to keep to themselves and avoid intruding on others’ conversations. I found this aspect of Berlin to be quite different from my American experience, where interactions are often more overtly friendly. Punctuality is also important—being on time is seen as a sign of respect. Tipping isn’t mandatory, but rounding up the bill is always appreciated. And, of course, cash is still king in many places, so it’s always a good idea to have some on hand, especially when heading out to clubs or smaller cafes.

Art and Culture: Canvas of Expression

Berlin is a canvas of street art and cultural expression. Street art is everywhere, especially in neighborhoods like Friedrichshain and Kreuzberg that are adorned with vibrant street art that often carries deeper messages. There are also countless galleries and museums to explore, from the big names on Museum Island to smaller spots like Galerie Eigen + Art and König Galerie. One of my favorite things was visiting museums on the first Sunday of the month when many offer free admission. It’s a great way to dive into Berlin’s thriving art scene. And while Berliners might not be frequenting the theaters or classical concerts as much, they show up for film festivals like Berlinale or cultural events like Karneval der Kulturen.

Living in Berlin means diving into a lifestyle that embraces directness, practicality, and a rich cultural tapestry. It’s about truly immersing yourself in the city’s unique rhythm and making the most of every experience it offers.