Learn German in Germany – Your Friendly Starter Guide #

Just moved to Germany and need to speak the language to truly settle in? Whether it’s ordering at a café, opening a bank account, or understanding your job contract — German is your key to feeling at home.

This guide walks you through how, where, and why to learn German, with practical tips and the best places to start — both in-person and online.

Why Learn German? #

You can get by with English in big cities like Berlin — but learning German will:

• Make daily life easier (Anmeldung, doctor visits, shopping)
• Help you make local friends & feel connected
• Boost your job opportunities
• Speed up your path to permanent residence or citizenship
• Show employers, landlords, and immigration officials you’re committed

Even learning basic German (A1–B1) can open many doors!

The 4 Best Ways to Learn German in Germany #

Here’s how most newcomers successfully learn German — you can mix & match depending on your schedule and budget.

1. Language Schools (In-Person) #

Perfect if you prefer structure, daily practice, and classmates.

Public Option: Volkshochschule (VHS) #

• Affordable, state-funded community colleges
• Offer integration courses and regular German classes
• Taught by certified instructors
• Available in every Berlin district

Cost: ~€200–400 per course

Website: vhs-berlin.de

Private Language Schools (Popular in Berlin) #

School	Type	Price Range	Highlights
Expath	Small classes	€	English-friendly teachers, practical focus
Speakeasy	Group & evening courses	€€	Flexible schedules, vibrant community
Humboldt Institut	Intensive	€€€	Residential option, fast-track immersion
Sprachenatelier	Creative & cultural	€€	Combine language with art, film, music

Some schools also help with visa letters if you need one!

2. Online Courses (Flexible & Affordable) #

Great if you’re working, studying, or prefer self-paced learning.

Platform	Format	Good For
Lingoda	Live online classes	Speaking + grammar with real teachers
Babbel	App-based lessons and Online (Private and group lessons)	Vocabulary, quick daily practice
Duolingo	Gamified app	Casual beginners (but limited grammar)
DeutschAkademie	Free grammar exercises	Supplement to your main course

Tip: Lingoda’s Sprint Challenges are popular — 3 months of daily practice, get cashback if you attend all classes.

3. Language Tandems (Free & Fun!) #

Meet up with a local who wants to learn your language, and you teach each other.

Apps & Platforms: #

• Tandem App
• Speaky
• Local Facebook groups or university bulletin boards

Pro Tip: Bring coffee, swap stories, and laugh over grammar mistakes — this is language learning made fun!

4. Cultural Events & Workshops #

Want to learn German without sitting in a classroom?

Try immersive experiences like:

• Theater or improv workshops in German
• Cooking classes or museum tours in German
• Sprachenatelier Berlin’s cultural activities (film nights, exhibitions, etc.)

You’ll absorb language naturally — and meet new people too.

Learn with Us – Join Our German Learning Community #

Looking for a flexible, affordable, and community-driven way to learn German?

Our platform connects you with qualified German teachers, experienced tutors, and language exchange partners from all over Germany — offering:

• Private online lessons
• Group classes
• Language exchange sessions
• Free learning materials, tips & resources

And here’s the best part:

You can learn German from teachers who also speak your language — whether it’s Urdu, Hindi, or English.

This makes learning easier, especially if you’re just starting out!

Whether you’re learning from scratch or want to improve your conversation skills, you’ll find the right match in our German Learning Section.

Browse tutors, filter by budget & availability, and start learning at your own pace — right from home.

Employer Support #

Some companies will pay for your German courses — especially if your job needs communication with clients or teams.

Ask HR during onboarding!

Tax Deduction #

Language courses related to work or professional development may be tax-deductible in Germany — keep those receipts!

Tips to Learn German Faster #

• Practice a little every day — consistency beats intensity
• Don’t be afraid to speak — locals will appreciate it
• Watch German shows with subtitles (start with kids’ shows!)
• Label things in your apartment to memorize vocab
• Speak with others, not just your app!

Ready to Start Your German Journey? #

Learning German isn’t just a skill — it’s a gateway to friendships, better job options, and a deeper experience in Germany. Whether you’re learning in a classroom, on an app, or in a café — you’ve got this.

Still unsure where to start? Explore our Newcomer Language Pack, compare courses, or reach out for free help choosing your first class.