Many international students have chosen to study in Berlin for several reasons. Its living costs are affordable compared to those of other European capitals such as London or Paris, and thanks to various discounts and offerings, there's plenty you can enjoy as a student.
There is a continued draw of a large and diverse student population to study in Berlin thanks to reliable public transport, plenty of student-friendly study facilities, a bustling arts scene, live events and music, political activism, and its famous nightlife.
International University of Applied Sciences has a bustling Berlin campus designed to provide students with everything they need. That said, we realise your university life extends beyond this, so we've put together this handy guide to help you explore the best deals, experience the unique culture, and find you the best study spots in Berlin.
Best Cafés and Study Spots in Berlin
Berlin might be famous for its all-night clubs, but it’s quietly competitive when it comes to cafés. With thousands of cafés across the city, we’ve handpicked the best spots for studying, focusing on those conveniently located near IU’s campus in the lively district of Friedrichshain.
Shakespeare & Sons (Fine Bagels)
Location: Warschauer Str. 74, Friedrichshain
An English-language bookstore with a café, perfect for those studying in Berlin in English. You'll be surrounded by books, a stimulating atmosphere, and free Wi‑Fi, making it one of the best study spot in the city.
Opening times - daily 8 am–7 pm
Price - bagels roughly €4–8; coffee ~€3–4
Proximity to campus - 10-minute walk
Vibe - Bookish and laid-back, with a quiet hum of café revellers and readers.
Anima Café (at Locke Hotel)
Location: Mühlenstraße 61–63, Friedrichshain
Easily one of the best cafés to study in Berlin, this bright, sleek, modern space is inside a hotel lobby. It's near the East Side Gallery with floor-to-ceiling windows and plenty of space so you can enjoy the view and terrace overlooking the river, Spree. And the ambient vinyl records and Instagram-worthy food mean you might come for study, but stay for the atmosphere.
Opening times - Mon 7.30 am–6:30 pm; Tue–Thu 7:30 am–12 am; Fri–Sat 7:30 am–1 am; Sun 8:30 am–6:30 pm
Price - coffee ~€3.50; banana bread ~€3.80
Proximity to campus - 10-minute walk
Vibe - Calm and airy with a design-hotel feel, great for quiet productivity or casual group work.
Die Kaffeefreunde
Location: Bänschstraße 73, Friedrichshain
A real community café specialising in quality, single-origin coffee beans and delicious cakes, complete with a quiet atmosphere and plenty of tables inside and outside. It's one of the best study cafés in Berlin, especially for longer study sessions or group work.
Opening times - Daily 8 am–6 pm
Price - coffee ~€3–4.50; cake ~€3.50
Proximity to campus - 8‑minute walk
Vibe - Friendly and unpretentious, with a neighbourhood feel perfect for focused work without too much noise.
Best Libraries to Study in Berlin
When you need a little more focus than a café, there are plenty of libraries to study in Berlin. While the IU has plenty of quality libraries and study spaces, we understand that it might be more convenient to pop into a library closer to your student flat, or even just for a change of scenery. They are quiet, well-equipped, low-cost to use, making them some of the best places to study and do your research in Berlin.
Berliner Stadtbibliothek
Location: Breite Str. 30–36, Mitte
Part of Berlin’s public library network, this modern space offers a mix of quiet zones, group tables, and a courtyard for breaks. Though the Wi‑Fi can be patchy, it’s still a solid option for students needing somewhere focused and one of the best study places in Berlin.
Opening hours - Mon–Fri 10 am–9 pm; Sat 10 am–7 pm; closed Sun
Registration requirements - not required for study; €5/year for borrowing
Proximity to campus - 10 minutes via U5
Vibe - Urban and efficient, offering a mix of solo and group spaces without the stuffy library vibe.
Pablo Neruda Library (Bezirkszentralbibliothek)
Location: Frankfurter Allee 14A, Friedrichshain
Easily one of the best places to study in Berlin, it's an institution of Friedrichshain. This public library is ideal for those seeking calm, well-lit spaces with plenty of resources. The top floor has armchairs, desks, and reliable internet, making solo reading or laptop work easy.
Opening hours - Mon–Thu 10 am–7 pm; Fri 10 am–5 pm; Sat 10 am–3 pm; closed Sun
Registration requirements - not required for on-site use; €5/year for borrowing
Proximity to campus - 5-minute walk from IU Berlin
Vibe - Peaceful and practical, with a local community feel and plenty of natural light.
Grimm Centre (Humboldt University Library)
Location: Geschwister-Scholl-Str. 1/3, Mitte
The Grimm Centre is part of Humboldt University, one of Germany’s most respected public universities. It's one of the best libraries to study in Berlin as it offers extensive research materials, impressive architecture, modern study rooms, and long opening hours.
Opening hours - Mon–Fri 8 am–12 am; Sat–Sun 10 am–10 pm
Registration requirements - present ID or passport, without any charge for on‑site use and lending
Proximity to campus - about 20 minutes by U-Bahn (U5 + U6)
Vibe - Serious and scholarly, with a grand academic atmosphere that motivates deep focus.
Pubs and Bars with a Student Vibe
One reason Berlin tops lists for Europe and Germany's best cities for student life is because of its bar scene. There's craft beer, riverside hangouts, and more quirky options, but they're all affordable venues near IU’s Berlin campus where students can unwind with friends after a day of studying.
Hops & Barley
Location: Wühlischstr. 22/23, Friedrichshain
A small microbrewery just off Boxhagener Platz, serving beer brewed on site. It’s friendly, casual, and a firm favourite with university students from across the city. Great for small groups or catching a football match.
Opening hours - Mon–Tue 5 pm–12 am; Wed–Thu 5 pm–1 am; Fri 4 pm–2 am; Sat 2 pm–2 am; Sun 2 pm–12 am
Price - beer ~€3.80–4.90
Proximity to campus - 10-minute walk
Vibe - Unpretentious and friendly, with a local crowd and craft beer made on-site.
YAAM (Young African Art Market)
Location: An der Schillingbrücke 3, Friedrichshain
YAAM is a cultural hub with open-air space, basketball and volleyball courts, street food, and reggae sets, perfect for dancing the night away in the warmer months. This venue draws people from all over Berlin for its laid-back atmosphere and inclusive community.
Opening hours - seasonal – usually Wed–Sun from afternoon/evening until late
Price - entrance generally ~€2; beers ~€3–4; cocktails from ~€7, with occasional free or low-cost events
Proximity to campus - 15-minute walk or short tram ride
Vibe - Chilled, outdoorsy, and inclusive—part beach bar, part creative playground.
Madame Claude
Location: Lübbener Str. 19, Kreuzberg
A Berlin institution with furniture on the ceiling, this artsy venue offers open mic nights, live music, and cheap drinks. It’s a favourite among international students and creatives looking for a more alternative night out.
Opening hours - Fri–Sat 7 pm–4 am; Sun 7 pm–1 am; Mon–Thu closed
Price - beer from ~€3.50; cocktails ~€5–7+; cover charge/donation usually €1–6 (around €4 on event nights)
Proximity to campus - around 20 minutes by U-Bahn or bike
Vibe - Artsy and eccentric, with a dash of Berlin weirdness and live music surprises.
Cinemas and Theatres for Chill Evenings in Berlin
Whether you’re into indie films, open-air screenings or live theatre, Berlin has plenty of locations to offer. Additionally, many of these options are budget-friendly for students. Here are some great venues to check out near IU’s campus.
Freiluftkino Friedrichshain
Location: Volkspark Friedrichshain
A favourite during the warmer months. This informal open-air cinema shows new releases and cult classics, often in English or with subtitles. Bring a blanket or rent a lounger to spend a fun summer evening with friends.
Opening hours - seasonal (May–Sept); usually evenings from 9 pm
Price - from ~€9. You can bring your own snacks and drinks
Proximity to campus - 15-minute walk
Vibe - Laid-back and open-air—think blankets, beer, and movie nights under the stars.
English Theatre Berlin
Location: Fidicinstraße 40, Kreuzberg
As the city’s only professional English-language theatre, it's a welcome comfort for those studying English in Berlin. It stages contemporary plays, workshops, and post-show discussions. This place can bring international students together to escape or to engage.
Opening hours - varies by performance; evening shows typically from 7.30 pm
Price - ~€10 to €14 with student ID
Proximity to campus - around 25 minutes by U-Bahn (U5 + U7)
Vibe - Intimate and thought-provoking, with a welcoming crowd of fellow international students.
Babylon Mitte
Location: Rosa-Luxemburg-Platz 3, Mitte
A historic art-house cinema showing international films, silent films with live piano, and themed festivals. It's well known for original version screenings and strong student discounts.
Opening hours - varies by screening
Price - ~€8–10 with student ID
Proximity to campus - 15 minutes by U-Bahn (U5)
Vibe - Indie and atmospheric, with a strong film buff energy and old-school charm.
Gyms and Sports Centres
Staying active in Berlin doesn’t have to break your budget. The city has plenty of affordable gyms, university sports programmes, and a growing fitness scene, especially around IU’s Friedrichshain campus. These spots are great for students who want to stay fit and healthy without overspending:
FitX (East Side Mall)
Location: Tamara-Danz-Str. 11, Friedrichshain
This modern, two-storey gym offers group classes, drink dispensers, and friendly staff, perfect for students in sports science, media, or management degrees who enjoy campus-style fitness. Its bright facility is spacious and rarely overcrowded.
Opening hours - 24/7
Price - €29/month; monthly cancellation possible
Proximity to campus - 15-minute walk or 5-minute tram ride
Vibe - Lively and polished, with a positive energy that’s perfect for group class regulars.
SuperFit (Ring Centre)
Location: Frankfurter Allee 111, Friedrichshain
A locally run gym offering cardio and strength training equipment, plus group classes. It’s one of the most affordable study spots for fitness in the area and usually less busy than bigger chains, making it a good choice for students enrolled in higher education and part-time jobs.
Opening hours: 24/7
Price: from €16.90/month (long-term); ~€22–25/month (monthly)
Proximity to campus: 5-minute walk
Vibe: Low-key and affordable, ideal for students who want to work out without the crowd.
John Reed Fitness
Location: Landsberger Allee 104/a-d, 10249, Friedrichshain
For students who prefer a vibrant, club-like gym experience, complete with live DJ music and designer interiors. John Reed is a little pricier, coming in as a premium option, and while not essential for everyone, it's a true Berlin experience.
Opening hours - varies, often 6 am–11 pm
Price - around €50/month (student concession available)
Proximity to campus - 10-minute walk
Vibe - Bold and high-energy—part fitness studio, part club, with beats to match.
Museums and Culture on a Budget
Berlin isn't just Germany’s capital. It's a hub of culture, research and academic excellence. Whether your interests lie in history, digital art or science, the city’s museums offer a full range of experiences at student-friendly prices. Many exhibitions even connect to modern study programmes in business, technology and the arts. Here are three accessible options close to IU’s Friedrichshain campus:
East Side Gallery
Location: Mühlenstraße, Friedrichshain
A mesmerising open-air gallery and powerful slice of Berlin’s modern history. This preserved section of the Berlin Wall features murals by international artists. It’s both a cultural landmark and an essential study spot for students of arts, politics and design.
Opening hours - open 24 hours
Price - free
Proximity to campus - 15-minute walk
Vibe - Iconic and moving, a powerful walk-through gallery blending art and history.
Computerspielemuseum (Computer Games Museum)
Location: Karl-Marx-Allee 93A, Friedrichshain
Perfect for students in technology, media or design courses. This interactive museum traces the evolution of video games, from retro arcades to VR and AI storytelling. It’s a dynamic space where culture meets tech.
Opening hours - daily 10 am–8 pm
Price - €7 with student ID
Proximity to campus - 5-minute walk
Vibe - Interactive and nostalgic, where retro games meet futuristic tech in a fun setting.
DDR Museum
Location: Karl-Liebknecht-Str. 1, Mitte
A highly interactive museum about everyday life in East Germany. Students sit in Trabant cars, explore 1980s living rooms and dive into DDR culture. It's a compact yet rich experience, ideal for a post-study break.
Opening hours - daily 9 am–11 pm
Price - €8 with student ID
Proximity to campus - 20-minute U-Bahn ride (U5)
Vibe - Immersive and hands-on, bringing East German life to light in a surprisingly fun way.
How to Save: Student Discounts in Berlin
Berlin is already one of Europe’s more affordable capitals, but students can benefit from even more ways to cut costs. Here’s where to find some of the best deals on daily essentials, transport, culture, and student discounts in Berlin.
Support Services from Studierendenwerk Berlin
Aside from deals and discounts, there is plenty of support offered by Studierendenwerk Berlin, a public organisation that offers a wide range of services to help students navigate university life. These services are supported by a small semester fee, which is usually included in your university contribution.
Student Housing - Get subsidised student accomodation throughout the city. But make sure to apply early as demand is high.
Counselling & Advice Services - Get free psychological counselling and legal advice spanning work and tenancy in several languages.
Childcare Support - If you've got a child, you'll be able to access free or low-cost daycare centres while you study.
Cultural Events - Discounted access to concerts, theatre shows, exhibitions, and creative workshops where you can meet new people.
BAföG & Financial Aid – Get help navigating Germany’s student funding system and support with budgeting or financial planning.
International Services – Help with integration, language barriers, and cross-cultural networking. These are especially useful for non-German speakers.
Skills & Careers – Workshops and training sessions focused on soft skills, job applications, time management, and study techniques.
Tips and Tricks for Making New Friends in Berlin
Moving to a new city in a new country can be exciting, but it can also be daunting. This is especially true if you don't have your regular support bubble around you. But like all other aspects of student life, there are tips and tricks for making new friends in Berlin.
Events for International Students – Join welcome trivia and pub nights, and cultural outings hosted by Studierendenwerk Berlin, ESN, and IU. Expect everything from museums to karaoke.
Apps to Connect – Try Meetup, Bumble BFF, or InterNations to meet people based on shared interests. Social media groups are also worth checking out.
Language Cafés – Practise your German (or another language) at tandem meetups and language cafés held at universities or other venues.
Hobby and Interest Groups – From book clubs to climbing groups, Berlin has it all. Use sites like Meetup or Spontacts to find relevant local meetups.
Campus Life – Get involved with student societies, sports clubs, or volunteering. IU and other Berlin universities often host cross-campus mixers and fairs.
FAQs
Award-winning education at IU
Do you have any questions?
Visit our FAQ page or get in touch with our Study Advisors.
