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Writer's pictureSean

Best Cities to Live in Germany for Expats

Updated: Oct 31

Germany is fast becoming a popular destination for expats looking to retire, raise a family or work. There is something for everyone, whether you are looking for the hustle and bustle of city living or prefer something in the small-town quieter regions.


This post focuses on city life and looks into what you should consider before moving to Germany from the UK. If you need assistance with moving your belongings to Berlin, or any destination in Germany, contact our team and we will be more than happy. Now, read further to explore the best cities to live in Germany.

 

Berlin

 Berlin

Naturally, Berlin is a good choice, it is the biggest city in Germany and has a lot to offer. From family life to the single scene, you will find plenty to do.


Public transport is great, the international community is asked, and there are lots of opportunities for those looking to work.

Hamburg

Hamburg

 Hamburg is a quieter option but still very much city living. It’s not quite as big as Berlin or Munich, but it has a great history and loads to do.


Altona is considered a historical area, and here you will find museums, including the Hamburg Museum of Fine Arts, which is well worth a day trip.

Munich

Munich

 Although Munich is a smaller city than Berlin, it has a higher cost of living. The Isar River is beautiful, and you can spend time on the bank side.


If you enjoy dining out, some excellent restaurants serve both German and international food, and Munich is fairly famous for having a great beer choice.


It’s a really popular expert, so you will find other people there in situations similar to yours. Just bear in mind it is probably the most expensive city in Germany.

Leipzig

Leipzig

 If you’re looking for a relaxed vibe in city living, then check out Leipzig. There’s a good international community, and it has excellent public transport links.


If you enjoy evening entertainment, there are loads of clubs and bars where live music is played, and there’s also an excellent choice of restaurant for grabbing a bite to eat.

Dusseldorf

Dusseldorf

 Dusseldorf never seems to feature on popular web lists, although we’re not sure why because it’s a bit of a hidden gem. It’s not the largest city in the world, but it has a great restaurant and café selection as well as a thriving beer scene.


They are also particularly keen on the Japanese community, which means if you enjoy Japanese cuisine, you are in for a real treat, as there are plenty of authentic restaurants on every street.

Bremen

Bremen

 If old buildings are more your style rather than modern glass and metal construction, then why not check out Bremen? It’s well-known for its gorgeous architecture and has plenty of historical sites to check out.


The most popular cuisine in the area is seafood, but you will find plenty of international and local food on offer as well. There are good education options for your children, but it also makes an excellent city for retirement.



Choosing a New City to Call Home

Choosing a New City to Call Home

 A lot depends on your set-up when you are moving to a new country. For example, if you are headed there for work and enjoy travel or have to travel as an essential part of your job, then access to the airport could be your top priority.


Many cities in Germany, including Berlin, Düsseldorf, Hamburg, Stuttgart and Frankfurt, all have international airports located within easy reach of the city centre.

 

Areas Good for Families

Areas Good for Families

 If you’re heading over to Germany because you are looking for a new place to raise your children, then areas that are classed as family-friendly are going to be important to you. Often, those with younger children pick some of the smaller cities, for example, Heidelberg or Bonn, because they offer a slightly slower pace of living.


They also have great public transport links, international communities and loads of outdoor activities. Both cities have some good international schools, which means if you prefer your children to be taught in English, you can enrol them there.


However, they are fee-paying, so affordability is key. You will also qualify for access to local public schools, which are free but taught in German.

 

Transport Links

Transport Links

 Speaking of public transport, this is another deciding factor for many people. If they are going to be commuting in and out of the city, having a car is often more of a hindrance than a help.


Strong public transportation links mean it is easy to get to and from work in a cost-effective way without having to add another car to the roads.

 

Expat Communities


Expat Communities

Many people who move to a new country like to find areas where other expats hang out. Sometimes, it’s not so vital that they come from the same country as you but that there is a welcoming international feel to the area.


Of course, it does help if you are in an English-speaking area, and Munich, Hamburg and Berlin are all great for this.

 

The Social Scene

The Social Scene

 It may be trickier to get out to wine and dine if you have a young family with you, but for young professionals or retirees, the food and drink scene can be quite important.


Of course, traditional German restaurants offering delights such as schnitzel, potato, dumplings, and sausages are plenty wherever you go, but areas like Hamburg, Düsseldorf, Munich and Berlin also have international cuisine from all over the globe.

 


The takeaway

 

Whether you are headed to Germany shortly or just beginning to plan your escape, remember that we are experts in international removals and would be delighted to lend a hand.


Our highly skilled, qualified team can assist with every step of the journey, including packing if that is one of your least favourite jobs.


You can then leave everything in our capable hands, and we will take all of your belongings across the channel and meet you in Germany. If you would like to learn more about our European removal services, then why not ask for an obligation quote or give us a call to ask any questions that might be on your mind?

 

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