Cemeteries in Berlin: choice, fees & process
Which cemetery in Berlin is the right one? An overview of municipal and church cemeteries, fees, and the free choice of cemetery.
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This guide was written and professionally reviewed by the editorial team of Himmelsruhe Bestattungen. Its content is based on our daily funeral counselling and grief support practice, is updated regularly and does not replace individual advice.
Why this guide?
Every day we support bereaved families in Berlin – in English, German, Russian and Italian. In this guide we answer the questions we hear most often, the same way we would in a personal conversation: calmly, concretely and without jargon. If anything remains unclear, simply give us a call – the consultation is free of obligation.
Funeral director services and additional fees will be listed separately in your individual quote.
Berlin's cemetery landscape is divided into state-owned (municipal) and denominational (mostly Protestant or Catholic) cemeteries. At municipal cemeteries, burial is possible entirely regardless of religion. Church cemeteries often have requirements, e.g. that the deceased was a member of the church, but exceptions are almost always possible.
Not everyone wants a classic grave that has to be tended for years. Many Berlin cemeteries now offer green meadows or anonymous communal urn sites. For nature lovers we also arrange woodland burials in the Berlin surroundings (e.g. FriedWald or RuheForst).
Frequently asked questions
Can I choose a cemetery in another district?
Yes. Berlin has free choice of cemetery. If you live in Spandau but wish to be buried at the Dorotheenstadt cemetery in Mitte, that is easily possible.
Who tends the grave?
For classic plots, the relatives are responsible for upkeep. Alternatively, you can commission a cemetery gardener. Maintenance-free options include urn steles, green meadows, or tree burials.