A filter element is provided with a folded bellows that has a first pleated section with parallel arranged first pleats and a second pleated section with parallel arranged second pleats. The first pleats of the first pleated section are positioned at an angle relative to the second pleats of the second pleated section. The end face edges of the first pleats of the first pleated section adjoin a first clean chamber. The end face edges of the second pleats of the second pleated section adjoin a second clean chamber. The second clean chamber is delimited by a longitudinal side of an edge-side pleat of the first pleated section. The first and second clean chambers are connected to each other. A filter insert with such a filter element is provided.