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.
Berlin has over 200 cemeteries. Important: there is no obligation to use the cemetery at your place of residence. You can be buried at any Berlin cemetery, as long as space is available. Fees for a municipal earth grave are often between €1,000 and over €2,000; urn graves are cheaper. We handle the entire coordination with the cemetery, the choice of grave, and the clarification of all fees for you.
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 ash-scattering 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, ash-scattering meadows, or tree burials.