🇬🇧 London vs Berlin 🇩🇪: which capital should you choose to live, work or travel in?

Choosing between London and Berlin means comparing two great European icons: one symbolising success, dynamism and global energy, the other the avant-garde, freedom and creativity.
But beyond their charm, these two capitals offer radically different lifestyles, and above all different access conditions from Europe.
If you’re planning a trip to London, be warned: since Brexit, you now need UK ETA authorisation, even for a simple weekend.

👉 F ill in your UK ETA form now to avoid any blockages at the airport.

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🌍 General atmosphere: between London’s effervescence and Berlin’s free spirit

London is the city that never sleeps.
Its skyscrapers rise above the Thames, its black taxis criss-cross the streets and each district has its own identity: the luxury of Kensington, the energy of Camden, the creativity of Shoreditch..
All the world’s languages are spoken here, with the best job opportunities and an electric atmosphere, especially in the pubs and stadiums.

Berlin is just the opposite: rougher, freer, more artistic.
The city has experienced the wounds of history, but has turned them into a strength. Old industrial buildings have become clubs, galleries and alternative cafés.
Here, you can breathe in freedom, respect for differences and a more relaxed art of living.

👉 If you like speed, opportunity and cosmopolitan energy, London is your city.
👉 If you prefer creativity, peace and quiet and a reasonable cost of living, Berlin is better for you.

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💶 Cost of living: Berlin, undeniably more affordable

This is one of the first criteria for comparison: budget.
And on this score, Berlin beats London hands down.

In London, everything is more expensive:

• 🏠 Rent: expect to pay between £1,800 and £2,500 for a small flat.
• 🍽️ Meals: an average restaurant easily costs £30 to £40 per person.
• 🚇 Transport: the Oyster Card is handy, but zones 1 to 3 are expensive on a daily basis.
• ☕ Even a simple coffee is often over £4.

In Berlin, life remains gentler:

• 🏠 Average rent: between €1,000 and €1,400 depending on the district.
• 🍽️ Going out for dinner costs half as much.
• 🚆 Efficient transport and half the price of London.
• 🎟️ Leisure, culture and sport: prices accessible to all.

👉 Verdict: if your budget is limited, Berlin will give you a more comfortable lifestyle, without sacrificing quality.

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💼 Work and opportunities: London retains the advantage

London remains a global metropolis, a leader in finance, tech, design, fashion or the media.
It’s a city where everything moves fast, where there are real opportunities for those who want to move up quickly.
International companies are recruiting, start-ups are multiplying and professional mobility is higher here than elsewhere in Europe.

But beware: the pace in London is demanding, the competition fierce and the days often long.

In Berlin, the job market is more relaxed.
The city attracts creative people, freelancers, engineers and developers.
Salaries are lower, but the quality of life is often better.
Many start-ups are setting up here, taking advantage of Germany’s technological dynamism.

👉 If you’re looking for performance and rapid recognition, London is the place to be.
👉 If you prefer a balanced professional environment, Berlin is an excellent choice.

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🏠 Accommodation : London, a real challenge

Accommodation in London is one of the most expensive in Europe.
Rents are skyrocketing, and flat-sharing is often the only solution, even for executives.
What’s more, you often have to provide several months’ worth of guarantees to get a contract.

In Berlin, the situation has become tenser, but is still bearable: rents are rising, but regulations provide better protection for tenants.
And above all, you can still find spacious accommodation at reasonable prices in areas with good transport links.

👉 Berlin wins on comfort and price, while London shines on location and proximity to jobs.

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✈️ Travelling to London: the UK ETA is now compulsory

This is the key point that many travellers are still unaware of.
Since Brexit, European citizens have had to obtain an Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) to enter the United Kingdom.

This digital document replaces visa formalities for short stays and is simply obtained online.

⚡ How do you obtain your ETA?

1. Go to the official assistance website: eta-uk-apply.com
2. Fill in the UK ETA form (it only takes a few minutes).
3. Receive your authorisation directly by e-mail.

The ETA is valid for two years and allows several stays in the United Kingdom.
It is compulsory even for :

• A weekend in London
• A stopover at Heathrow or Gatwick airport
• A business or sports trip

👉 Don’t risk being refused boarding.
Apply for your UK ETA now to travel with peace of mind.

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🎓 Studying in London or Berlin: two different visions

International students love these two capitals, but for opposite reasons.

• In London, you’ll find some of Europe’s most renowned universities: King’s College, UCL, Imperial College, LSE..
  But the cost is high: tuition fees, accommodation, transport = a substantial investment.
• In Berlin, higher education is often free, even for foreign students.
  The atmosphere is more relaxed, multicultural and close to the artistic world.

👉 For an international career: London.
👉 For a more alternative, less expensive career: Berlin.

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🌦️ Climate: London milder, Berlin more contrasted

Climate also plays a role in your choice.

• London: mild winters, frequent rain, little snow.
• Berlin: real cold winters, warmer, sunnier summers.

If you like long walks in winter, Berlin will appeal to you.
But for a temperate and predictable climate, London remains more pleasant.

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🎭 Culture, nightlife and entertainment

When it comes to culture, London can’t be beaten:

• World-famous free museums (British Museum, Tate Modern, Natural History Museum)
• Musicals, theatre, concerts every night
• Major sporting events: Premier League, Wimbledon, giant concerts in Hyde Park

But Berlin is not to be outdone:

• World capital of techno and contemporary art
• Film festivals, street art and original exhibitions
• Legendary nightlife, with a freedom found nowhere else

👉 London is more classic and prestigious, Berlin more underground and artistic.
Both are exciting, but your choice will depend on your temperament.

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🚇 Transport and accessibility

London has one of the most extensive transport networks in the world: Tube, buses, trains, ferries.
But prices are high and traffic is often heavy.

Berlin, on the other hand, offers a simple, fluid and economical system.
The S-Bahn and U-Bahn networks cover the whole city and run until late at night.

👉 If you want to move around easily and cheaply, Berlin is still more practical.

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💬 Final verdict: London or Berlin?

Criterion	🇬🇧 London	🇩🇪 Berlin
Cost of living	❌ Very high	✅ Affordable
Housing	❌ Difficult	✅ Accessible
Work	✅ Global opportunities	⚖️ Growing
Studies	✅ Prestigious	✅ Free
Cultural life	🌟 Exceptional	🎨 Creative
Travel formalities	⚠️ ETA required	🇪🇺 Open access

👉 London for ambition, network and prestige.
👉 Berlin for freedom, comfort and quality of life.

But if you decide to visit London, think about your ETA before you book your plane tickets.
It’s quick, simple and compulsory for all European travellers.

➡️ Apply for your UK ETA here before you leave.
Don’t let an administrative formality spoil your holiday!

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🌐 To sum up

London and Berlin embody two visions of modern Europe:

• One, international and ambitious,
• The other, free and artistic.

The choice will depend on your personality, your budget and your desires.
But one thing’s for sure: London remains a must-see, whether you’re looking for a cultural, professional or festive break.

👉 F ill in your UK ETA form now
and enjoy a stress-free, paperless London experience.