We went shopping in Berlin in December. Thanks to the fact that the intensive shopping program was well planned from the beginning, almost everyone managed to buy what they had planned. Why Berlin, because Milan and Paris are considered the capital of shopping and a kind of Mecca. Yes, everything is banally simple - Berlin has a huge number of shopping centers, excellent prices (even outside the sales period), and most importantly, the choice of goods is huge: from the most affordable brands to prestigious pret-o-porte brands.
1. Planning your shopping
2. Sales in Berlin
3. Personal experience
4. The most popular shopping centers and shops in Berlin
KaDeWe
Gallery Kauhof
Department store "Europa-Center"
Galeries Lafayette
Department Store Quartier 206
Galeries Lafayette
Arcade Shopping Center (Potsdamer Platz Arkaden)
Alexa Shopping Center
4. Shopping centers and shops of Berlin on the map
5. Street map of shops in Berlin
List of hotels in Berlin.
Shopping planning
Berlin is a real shopping haven. But in order to spend time usefully, it is best to make a shopping list of what exactly you would like to buy. For example, when we went to Berlin, we knew exactly what we wanted to buy: leather bags, shoes, outerwear, a suitcase on wheels, casual clothes and some other little things.
Next, based on the area you live in, you can plan routes. If you are not too attached to the area, then you can divide shopping into several parts: for example, shopping for everyday non-branded items and luxury shopping.
For good, solid everyday items at discounts, you can go to Wilmersdorfer StraSe (department stores TK Maxx, Peek@Cloping, Karlstad).
To purchase luxury goods, it is best to go to the Kurfurstendamm area (Ku-damm for short). Here is the famous huge shopping mall KaDeWe, and many other brand stores such as MaxMara, Tommy Hilfiger, Louis Vuitton, Prada. This is the main trade route in Berlin. Especially in cases where time is sorely lacking. Along with famous brands, you can also find brands here C&A, Zara, Mango and H&M.
You can't ignore the Eastern part of Berlin, where Friedrichstrasse is considered the main shopping center. Lovers of expensive boutiques will find here Hermes, Hugo Boss, Escada. Particularly noteworthy is the Quartier 205 shopping center (as well as Quartier 206 and Quartier 207). In the same area is the famous Galeries Lafayette.
Below in our story you can find detailed description these areas and specific stores.
When planning shopping in Berlin, you need to keep in mind that most stores, including grocery stores, are closed on Sundays. On weekdays and Saturdays, most large stores are open from 10-00 to 20-00 (some until 18-00), but still, before your visit, it is better to go to the website of a particular store and make sure. However, this rule does not apply during sales periods: we have seen with our own eyes how during the Christmas holidays large department stores were open on Sundays too, and also worked longer than usual.
Sales in Berlin
During the sales period, fashionistas from all over the world flock to Berlin. There are especially many Russians here, because the flight from Moscow is nothing - 2.5 hours. Seasonal sales are held twice a year, however, before Christmas (from December 1 to December 25) there are already discounts in stores, although not the maximum.
Winter sale: starts on the last Monday of January.
Summer Sale: starts on the last Monday of July.
Sales last for exactly 2 weeks. At this time, discounts on famous labels reach 70%.
One of popular places For shopping during the sales period, there is the KaDeWe department store, located next to the Wittenbergplatz metro station.
Personal experience
We were in Berlin at the beginning of December, only 4 days.
During this period, there were no high-profile sales in Berlin yet, so we did not waste time on expensive brand names. The main areas where we went shopping were: Wilmersdorfer Straße, Kurfurstendamm and Alexanderplatz.
Our shopping route in the Wilmersdorfer Strase area
Wilmersdorfer Strase is a very popular shopping street in the Charlottenburg area, with many interesting shopping centers.
Our first shopping stop was a huge store - TK Maxx.
Address: TK Maxx Berlin Kant-Center, Wilmersdorfer Strase 108, 10627 Berlin, official website www.tkmaxx.de. Opening hours: Monday to Saturday from 9-00 to 21-00.
TK Maxx is a huge discount store occupying an area of about 3,700 square meters. Here you can find men's and women's clothing, accessories, bags. Prices are always discounted up to 60%. What we managed to buy here: leather bags for 70 euros, leather boots for 30 euros, sweaters for 30 euros. The brands are mostly little known, but the items are quite high quality. One of the disadvantages of the store is that you have to dig through things and literally dig out what suits you. We recommend visiting it in the morning, as by 2 p.m. the store becomes more like a second-hand store, as items can be scattered.
Peek@Cloppenburg is a store of the German chain Peek @Cloppenburg (address: Tauentzienstraße 19), which was founded in 1901. The assortment includes women's and men's clothing of various brands, different price categories. The quality must be noted - even the simplest things are made of good fabrics. Various German brands of casual clothing are presented here. Classic knitted sweaters of all colors and sizes, plaid shirts of various styles, denim and corduroy skirts, colored trousers, in general, everything that we wear every day.
Lesier- this huge store offers endless rows of shoes for every day. It is worth saying that there is a lot of “slag” on the shelves, but you can find something interesting.
Our shopping route in the Kurfurstendamm area
In the Ku-dam area there are many shops and shopping centers to suit every taste. We made a number of purchases at the Karlstadt store; for example, I bought a wonderful German suitcase here for 110 euros. On Kurfurstendamm we also visited Karen Millen and Marco Polo. There were small discounts in the stores, so we left Ku-dam with huge bags.
The best shops in Berlin
Department store KaDeWe
The famous KaDeWe department store is located on Kurfürstendamm (or simply Kudamm). KaDeWe (Kaufhaus des Westens) translates as “Trading House of the West”, directly making it clear that goods are collected here highest quality. The store was opened in 1907, burned to the ground during World War II, but was restored in 1950.
This store is known all over the world; there is even information that Marlene Dietrich herself liked to visit KaDeWe. The KaDeWe building has 7 floors. Here you can buy women's and men's clothing, accessories, cosmetics, and bags. shoes, and even groceries. Luxury brands are quite widely represented: Louis Vuitton, Chanel, Gucci, Prada and others. The only negative is the rather high prices. KaDeWe is the number 1 store where shoppers hunt for discounts during sales.
Address: Tauentzienstrasse, 21-24. Metro: U2 Wittenbergplatz
Opening hours KaDeWe: Mon. - Thu. – 10.00 – 20.00 hours, Fri. – 10.00 – 21.00, Sat 9.30 – 20.00 hours.
Store website: www.kadewe.de.
Galeria Kaufhof
The Kauphof Gallery is located in the center of Berlin, on Alexanderplatz. On 6 floors retail space you can buy absolutely everything: from clothes and shoes of the best German brands at the middle levels, to equipment and household utensils at the last, and a supermarket at the first. For the most part The shopping center features brands aimed at average incomes. Famous brands and jewelry, everything for sports and accessories - the range of products will surprise you with famous brands and unusual variety. Exclusive stores with truly high quality products: Tommy Hilfiger, Daniel Hechter, Certina, Furla, Lacoste, Coccinelle, Adidas, Tissot, Swarovski, Rado, Levi’s, Replay, Timberland, ESpirit, Calvin Klein and others.
Opening hours: Mon.-Wed. from 9:30 to 20:00, Thu.-Sat. from 9:30 to 22:00, Sunday: closed.
Department store "Europa-Center"
Europe Center is located near KaDeWe. You can find the building by the huge Mercedes sign that is installed on its roof. The shopping center has a huge variety of stores, but that is not what is famous for it.
Firstly, there is a unique “Clock of the current time” installed here, which can be viewed absolutely free. The clock is a real miracle of technology, 18 meters in height.
Secondly, on the 20th floor of the department store there is an observation deck, which offers amazing views of Berlin.
Thirdly, on the ground floor there is a very popular cafe “At Tiffany’s”, reminiscent of a winter garden.
Address: Tauentzienstrasse 9-12
Internet site: http://www.europa-center-berlin.de
Department Store Quartier 206
Let us now move to another part of Berlin, the eastern one. If you are a perfume maniac, then you have a direct route to the Quartier 206 department store with a huge and even exclusive selection of perfumes and cosmetics. This grand building in black and white checkered was built by the creator of the glass pyramid in the Louvre, Yo Ming Pei. In concept, Quartier 206 is close to the format of a so-called luxury department store, where the most prestigious brands in the fashion industry are collected. Luxury boutiques are located on the second floor - Prada, Gucci, Bottega Veneta, Etro, Yves Saint Laurent, from where, with the arrival of a new collection, discounted items go to the Last Season store below. From here there is a passage to Quartier 207 - the huge building of Galleries Lafayette. Quartier 206 is located at Friedrichstrasse 71
Internet site: http://www.departmentstore-quartier206.com
Galeries Lafayette
The Galeries Lafayette store is located on Friedrichstrasse. The building is very remarkable from an architectural point of view. Department store architect Jean Nouvel built Berlin's Galeries Lafayette in the shape of a glass funnel. The most spectacular view opens from the first floor, where cosmetics and accessories are sold. As for the range of brands, unfortunately, the choice is small. Some bags and glasses – Michael Kors, Fendi, Salvatore Ferragamo, Burberry, Chanel. Cosmetics and perfumes, yes, there are also a variety. On the women's floor there is American Vintage, Burberry, Karen Millen and a few designer jeans, like 7 for all Mankind. There is a department with inexpensive Jodhpur cashmere (just like in the Parisian Galeries Lafayette). I advise you to go to the youth department, they sell good thin knitwear. In general, shopping at Berlin's Galeries Lafayette depends on your luck, but the place itself is worth a visit.
Galeries Lafayette is located at Friedrichstrasse 76-78
Internet site: http://www.galerieslafayette.de
Shopping center "Arkaden" (Potsdamer Platz Arkaden)
This shopping center is one of the most visited in Berlin. The Arcades are always full of people - both on weekends and on weekdays. 130 stores of fashionable clothing, accessories, cosmetics, books, electronics are adjacent to restaurants, cafes and bars. There are practically no luxury brands in the Arcades; the selection of stores includes Wöhrl, Eddie Bauer, H&M, Hallhuber, Mexx, Mango, Zara, Esprit and others. » This is a great option where you can stock up on casual clothes for the whole family.
Address: Alte Potsdamer Strasse 7
Internet site: http://www.potsdamer-platz-arkaden.de
AlexaShoppingCentre (located at Alexanderplatz)
Quite a spacious and fairly standard mall, inside of which you can find many stores of brands such as Zara, PullandBear, H&M, Levi’s and others, no less famous. What makes this mall exceptional is the presence of the Loxx Museum on the top floor - Berlin in miniature! Overall, if you want a shopping experience like no other, go to Alexa
Berlin shops on the map
Berlin shops on the map
View Shopping in Berlin on a larger map
Maps of Shopping Areas in Berlin
For your convenience, we invite you to download detailed maps main shopping areas in Berlin. The maps show all the large and small cafe shops, as well as metro stations and streets. I think that after viewing these shopping maps you will no longer have questions about where and what to buy in Berlin.
Kurfurstendamm (download here)
FriedrichstraSe (download here)
Hackescher Martt (download here)
SchlosstraSe ( Shopping in Berlin in the Shlossstrase area)
Wilmersdorfer StraSe ( Shopping in Berlin in the Wilmersdorferstrasse area)
Potsdamer Platz ( Shopping in Berlin in the Potsdamer Platz area)
Read the continuation of the story about Shopping in Berlin in the next note.
A selection of hotels in Berlin in the shopping area, especially for shopaholics.
Do not know what to visit in Berlin? Well, you've come to the right place! We'll figure it out now.
Berlin is known for its historical associations as the capital of Germany, internationalism and tolerance, lively nightlife, numerous cafes, clubs and bars, street art and numerous museums, palaces, and other sites of historical interest. The architecture of Berlin is quite diverse. Although Berlin was heavily damaged in the final years of World War II, it reconstructed itself significantly, especially after the fall of the Berlin Wall.
1. Holocaust Memorial (Holocaust Mahnmal)
This is a series of blocks, a kind of park, built in honor of the memory of the Holocaust. Here you can walk between the blocks, and during the walk it’s as if you’re going deeper down, and then going back up.
This unusual place symbolizes how the Holocaust became increasingly brutal throughout the war, and how it was ended afterwards. Here you can do interesting photos. Undoubtedly interesting place to visit in Berlin.
A must-see in Berlin is one of the most famous monuments city - the great Brandenburg Gate with a beautiful chariot of victory on top. Previously, this gate was a symbol of the division of Germany, but now it is a symbol of unity. The Brandenburg Gate was built in honor of the victory over Napoleon.
3. Charlottenburg Castle
This is the largest castle in Berlin and a must see. Frederick II ordered it built for his wife Sophie Charlotte in 1695. The castle has a very nice art gallery. The green-walled ballroom is inspired by nature. It also has rooms where all the attributes of the walls and ceilings are silver instead of gold, which was the most common, which makes it very beautiful and original. A walk through the gardens in summer is a very pleasant experience, but unfortunately you won't be able to take photos inside, as this is prohibited. It is best to explore the castle with the help of audio guides to get more detailed information.
4. Olympic Stadium (Olympiastadion)
This stadium began its history as a hippodrome. During the early years of the Third Reich, it was rebuilt for the 1936 Olympic Games. It is one of the few remaining buildings of Nazi architecture in Germany. In the 2006 World Cup it was one of the two main stadiums, along with the Allianz Arena in Munich.
This is the longest section of the Berlin Wall that still stands in its original location. The wall is 1.3 kilometers long and is completely painted with interesting artwork. Specifically, it features 106 paintings by artists from around the world that reference this theme. It can be said that this is the largest outdoor gallery in the world. It also gives an idea of what Berlin was like before 1989. It will be very interesting to visit this place in Berlin.
6. Victory Column (Siegessäule)
The Victory Column was built to commemorate the military exploits of the Prussian army against Denmark (1864), Austria (1866) and France (1871). Its construction was initially planned to commemorate the victory in the Schleswing War against Denmark in 1864, but by the time the monument was unveiled in 1874, new victories had emerged.
The column measures 69 meters high and is located in the center of the Tiergarten (the original location was the Royal Square, and was moved here in 1938) in the center of the ring road that links the five main routes in Berlin. On the column stands a golden statue, 8.3 meters high and weighing 35 tons, which was added later, representing the goddess Victoria.
The Reichstag is another must-visit building in Berlin. It is really beautiful, although it may not seem so in the photographs. Hitler ordered it to be burned in 1933, destroying everything inside and severely damaging the dome. The communists were accused of arson, and this fact served the Nazis as a reason to eliminate the communists as political opponents.
During the division of Germany, the condition of the building deteriorated significantly due to the destruction of the dome. After reunification, the government decided to return to Berlin, and the Reichstag was restored again as parliament. In place of the old dome, a new one was built, made of glass, which offers an excellent view of Berlin. It's worth going up there, and plus it's free.
Potsdamer Platz is probably the most historical square Berlin, where the first traffic light in Europe was installed in 1924. It is also one of the most visited attractions in Berlin.
Daymler City, Beisheim Center, Sony Center and German Building railway company DBs are the most popular buildings in the square.
This is also one of the areas where the Berlin Wall was built and you can still see some parts of it here. Potsdamer Platz is the ideal place to have a coffee or go to the movies. This place is especially beautiful at night due to the excellent lighting.
9. Berlin TV Tower
Here you can see a tower disguised as a ball! Exactly this high building in Germany - 368 meters. It opened in 1969 and is located in the eastern part of Berlin. A small museum has been created in the upper part. This is the best place to see Berlin from above, but the entrance fee is quite high.
An interesting landmark of Berlin is the clock on Alexanderplatz. They were built in East Berlin in 1969, as part of the city's reconstruction after the war, and became a very popular destination.
The watch weighs 16 tons and is 10 meters high. At the top is a large rotating cylinder that marks the 24 time zones, with names major cities in this time interval. The topmost part of the clock is a simplified model of the solar system, which rotates once every minute.
11. Memorial Church (Gedächtniskirche)
During World War II, this church was almost destroyed by the Allied bombing of Berlin. After the war, it was decided not to restore it and leave it as a monument. Then it was gradually restored with the addition of a bell and the construction of a tower in a modern style, which has an interesting contrast.
Built between 1894 and 1905, the Berlin Cathedral is the most representative religious building in Berlin. Crowned with a green copper dome, it stands majestically near the Spree River. Co observation deck under the dome there are magnificent views of the city.
And finally, there are many museums that will interesting to visit in Berlin, specifically: Pergamon Museum, New Museum, Hamburger Bahnhof Museum, Jewish Museum, Old National Gallery, DDR Museum, Museum of German History, Old Museum and others.
Now you know what to see in Berlin and you definitely won’t miss any of its majestic sights.
For Russian tourists, this point of the program can be called a cult.In May 1945 Reichstag Soviet troops took it by storm, hoisted a red banner on it and left memorial inscriptions in Russian.
The palace was built at the end of the 19th century, but in 1933 there was a fire in the building, which was blamed on the Communist Party. This gave political opponents grounds for accusations, repressions and arrests.
After the collapse of the Third Reich Reichstag remained in ruins for a long time, then it was restored, the last reconstruction took place in 1991 according to the design of the architect Norman Foster. Foster preserved the historical facade, but completely redid the interiors, incorporating original fragments into them, for example, inscriptions in Russian.
Reichstag. Berlin.
Reichstag. Berlin.
Above Reichstag They erected a glass dome into which you can climb up along an internal spiral, admiring the views and reflections in a broken mirror cone.
Reichstag. Berlin.
Reichstag. Berlin.
Reichstag. Berlin.
Now in Reichstag The Bundestag, the German parliament, meets.
And Reichstag is a tourist attraction that can be visit for free by registering in advance on the website.
Registration allows you to log in Reichstag skip the line, climb the dome, listen to a tour of Reichstag with visits to various places (we recommend choosing this option, there are excursions in Russian) or attend a parliamentary meeting.
https://visite.bundestag.de/BAPWeb/pages/createBookingRequest.jsf?lang=en
2. Climb the TV Tower and go to the Red Town Hall.
TV tower was erected on Alexanderplatz in 1969. This tallest building in Germany. An elevator takes visitors to a height of 203 meters, from here a panoramic view opens up. If you climb a little further up the stairs, you find yourself in a revolving restaurant.
TV tower. Berlin.
TV tower. Berlin.
The ticket costs 10.5 euros. There is usually a long queue. A VIP ticket worth 17.5 euros gives you the right to an extraordinary ascent to the tower.
Five steps from the TV Tower is Red Town Hall, located in geographical center of Berlin.
Red Town Hall. Berlin.
Red Town Hall made of red brick, but not only this circumstance gave it its name; during socialism, the city council, the “red power”, was located here.
Today the town hall houses the office of the ruling burgomaster of Berlin and the Berlin Senate. Entrance to the Town Hall is free during working hours.
Red Town Hall. Berlin.
3. Admire pieces of Ancient Rome in the Pergamon Museum and take a walk along the island of museums.
Museum Island is part of an island on the Spree River, listed by UNESCO world heritage. The largest museum complex in Europe was created in 1830 according to the design of the architect Schinkel. There are five museums here - Pergamon, Old National Gallery, Bode Museum, New and Old Museum, which house about 1.5 million works of art.Pergamon Museum- one of the most important archaeological museums in Germany and the world, built in 1910-30. designed by the architect Wessel and Hoffmann. The most famous and important exhibit of the museum is the Pergamon Altar (180 BC), which is considered one of the wonders of the world. It was discovered by the German engineer K. Human in ancient city Pergamon in Turkey, which was the capital of the Kingdom of Pergamum.
The huge altar is surrounded by a frieze depicting the battle of gods and titans.
Open: Tue-Sun from 10 to 18, Thu from 10 to 22.
Pergamon Museum. Berlin.
4. See modern architecture at Potsdamerplatz.
In the XIX-XX centuries. Potsdamerplatz was one of the busiest squares, with heavy traffic, shopping centers and office buildings, during the Second World War the square turned into ruins, as Hitler's underground bunker was located nearby. After the war the movement Potsdamerplatz was blocked, and later the Berlin Wall appeared, running along the square, which, having become a no-man's land, was overgrown with weeds and turned into a wasteland.But after the reunification of Germany, it was decided to return the square to its former glory. A huge construction project took place and Potsdamerplatz postmodern high-rise buildings made of glass and concrete have grown, the most famous of which is the Sony-Center, which covered 7 ultra-modern buildings with a tent roof.
Potsdamerplatz. Berlin.
5. Walk along Unter den Linden street to the Brandenburg Gate.
Unter den Linden street stretches 1,400 m from the Palace Bridge to the Brandenburg Gate. In the 17th century Thousands of linden trees were planted, which grew to form a green alley, hence the name of the street - “under the linden trees.” Along Unter den Linden there are outstanding architectural monuments of the 18th-19th centuries.The medieval one was surrounded by 14 gates. Brandenburg Gate initially there were ordinary gates in the city wall, but in 1788-91. a gate was erected in the classicist style with 12 Doric columns 26 m high. Two extensions in the form of Greek temples adjoin the gate on both sides. Thus, the Brandenburg Gate looks like a Triumphal Arch and symbolizes the victory of the German nation. The top of the gate is decorated with a quadriga with a winged goddess.
Brandenburg Gate. Berlin.
6. See the remains of the Berlin Wall.
For 28 years the wall divided into two parts - Eastern and Western. The wall appeared on August 13, 1961 and stretched for 155 km. In 1989, the wall was dismantled, only small parts of it were preserved as a memory.
Wall. Berlin.
Wall. Berlin.
7. Visit the Bauhaus Museum.
Bauhaus is a world-famous school of design and art, operating from 1919 to 1933 in Germany. The school was opened in Weimar, in 1925 the school moved to Dessau, and in 1932 to Berlin.Over the years in Bauhaus his own recognizable style was created, which had a huge influence on modern industrial design, architecture and art.
Among the teachers Bauhaus there were brilliant creators and art theorists, innovators who were at the forefront of European art, including Wassily Kandinsky, Paul Klee, Johannes Itten, Otto Linding, Laszlo Moholy-Nagy, Oskar Schlemmer and others.
IN Bauhaus Archives in Berlin you can see artwork, photographs, ceramics of some of the school’s teachers, building models, and interior items. There are also exhibitions dedicated to the work of various teachers. Bauchoise.
Museum address: Klingelhoferstrae 14
Open: Wednesday - Monday from 10 to 17, closed - Tuesday.
Ticket 7 euros - on Saturday, Sunday and Monday, ticket 6 euros - on Wednesday, Thursday and Friday.
8. Wander through the streets of the Nikolaivirtel quarter.
Nikolaivirtel quarter– this is a piece of old Berlin, several narrow picturesque streets running along the Spree River.Back in the 12th century. a trading settlement arose in this place around the Church of St. Nicholas. During the war the area was heavily damaged by bombing, but was restored in 1987. Modern layout Nikolaivirtel very accurately reproduces the historical street layout; in the center of the block, on a tiny square, stands the Church of St. Nicholas, which houses a museum of medieval art.
Many buildings in the quarter are stylized as German Baroque; the streets are full of cozy cafes, restaurants and pubs, souvenir shops and antique shops.
Nikolaivirtel quarter. Berlin.
Nikolaivirtel quarter. Berlin.
9. Taste German cuisine and drink beer.
It so happened historically that German cuisine is hearty and good with a wide variety of meat dishes - pork knee, schnitzels, steaks, schnellklops and cutlets, they also love potatoes - boiled in their jackets, baked, fried and with herring, mashed potatoes, potato salads, vegetables often served as a side dish - stewed cabbage, bean pods.Sausages and frankfurters occupy a special place. And the most popular fast food in Germany is sausage with ketchup and curry (currywurst).
Currywurst. Berlin.
Beer is a truly German drink, but do not forget that excellent Riesling wines are also produced in Germany.
"Meter of beer." Berlin.
There are a great variety of cafes, restaurants, snack bars and pubs, including those with very low prices.
- a huge and multinational metropolis, this has left its mark on gastronomic life: in Berlin there are many restaurants with cuisines from, perhaps, all the nations of the world. Don't ignore them either!
10. Go shopping in Berlin.
Shopping in is designed for different tastes and wallet thicknesses.So Kurfuerstendamm is the main shopping street in West Berlin, and Friedrichstrasse– the shopping artery of the eastern part of the city offers luxury shopping. Here you can find Chanel, Gucci, Sonia Rykiel, Jil Sander, Max Mara, Prada, Louis Vuitton and other top brands.
On Kurfuerstendamm next to the metro station Wittenberplatz the largest shopping center is located KaDaWe, which is 100 years old, and is located on Friedrichstrasse Gallery Lafayette.
Cheaper shops can be found around Alexander Platz, where the TV tower rises.
Alexanderplatz- center of Eastern. The history of the square began in the 14th century, at that time livestock and wool were traded here. On October 22, 1805, Russian Emperor Alexander I arrived to conclude an alliance with Emperor Frederick III against Napoleon, after this visit the square was named Alexanderplatz.
In the 19th century the area became an important transport and commercial center. But during the war, Alexanderplatz was heavily damaged by bombing. Later, the square was completely rebuilt, a TV tower and a tall hotel appeared here in the 1970s. a unique architectural ensemble has emerged.
Now Alexanderplatz is one of the most lively and party places, in high-rise buildings there are shops, shopping galleries and restaurants, young people and a varied crowd gather in the square, here you can meet singers, musicians, freaks, representatives of all youth movements, whose meeting place is the fountain in the center Alexanderplatz with the eloquent name “Friendship of Peoples”.
The affordable department store Kaufhof offers wide choose clothes, dishes, food, on the top floor there is a self-service restaurant.
You should also remember about the tax-free system - a refund of value added tax on goods exported from Europe by persons who are not residents of Europe.
In Germany, tax-free returns on purchases over 25 euros.
Photo: Barcomi's Deli
American Cynthia Barcomi has been running her breakfasts in Berlin since 1994: they have the best coffee, yoghurts and pastries. On Sundays, the cafe opens at 10:00, and after half an hour there are no empty seats. Barcomi's Deli is located in cozy Sofia courtyards not far from Alexanderplatz. After breakfast, you can go for a walk around the neighboring apartments: look into art galleries, a synagogue, a brass instrument store and look at the city's street art.
Peace Gardens in Marzahn
Photo: Shutterstock.com
Photo: Shutterstock.com
A few dozens national parks on a large territory: Chinese, Korean, Italian, all with fountains, playgrounds and ice cream parlors. You can get lost in the green maze, and if you are under 10 years old, you can squeal with delight. There is free parking. Entrance from April to October for adults is five euros, for children under 14 years old - one and a half.
Museum of Musical Instruments at the Kulturforum
Sim.spk-berlin.de
Photo: Frank Haase
Photo: Benjamin Asmussen
Photo: Thomas Queen
The museum is almost always half-empty, where, taking an audio guide, you can hear and see how the horn and harpsichord sound, dance to a Neapolitan polka and study the structure of the organ. Children from three years old are guaranteed to find it interesting. No knowledge of German is required.
Diner Heno Heno
Henoheno.de
Photo: Vilimblog
A microscopic Japanese eatery in Charlottenburg, where you need to order the entire menu at once, because it’s cheap and tasty. It's better to come in the afternoon or evening, although Heno Heno is open from 12:00 to 22:00. There is no alcohol on the menu, but if you're lucky, you can find delicious Japanese beer.
Children's educational museum MACHmit!
Machmitmuseum.de
Photo: Peter Rukavina
Photo: Peter Rukavina
Photo: Thomas Angermann
A three-dimensional labyrinth, thematic exhibitions, master classes, a puppet theater and a mirror room. If you're suddenly unlucky with the weather and your child needs to let off some steam, this is the place for you. Children will figure out how to have fun themselves - even without knowledge of German or English languages.
Park on the Tempelhof airport field
Thf-berlin.de
Photo: Tempelhoferfeld.info
Photo: Klaus-Dietmar Gabbert/news-brothers.com
The oldest airport in Germany. Now there is a huge park on his field where you can ride a bike, take a walk or have a picnic - there are places for a grill (though you need to bring it with you). Scooters, Segways and bicycles are available for rental on site. Fans of the military theme should go on an excursion: visit the bunkers, chemical defense unit, power plant and arrivals hall.
Greendoor Cocktail Bar
Greendoor.de
Photo: diephotodesigner
Photo: diephotodesigner
Photo: diephotodesigner
A secret cocktail spot in Schöneberg for middle-aged freaks. The door is really green, metal, like the ones we put in entrances for security. Closed by default, you need to ring the bell. It's usually an extravagant lady who opens the door and lets you in if she thinks there's room for you. The work of the bartenders, constantly preparing cocktails, is fascinating (as are the cocktails themselves).
Arminius Markthalle
arminiushalle.zunftnetz.org
Photo: Arminius Markthalle
Photo: Arminius Markthalle
Photo: Arminius Markthalle
The 19th century indoor market is an alternative to the tourist Markthalle IX in Kreuzberg, only without the street onlookers and tourists. In addition to food stands, there are Germans, Vietnamese, and Italians here with their own cuisine, but we recommend Fish and Chips, which can be ordered at the Brewbaker bar, accompanied by Kreuzberger Tag, Bellevue Pils or IPA beer, brewed in Berlin. Directly behind the bar is a cozy room with drapery sofas and a floor lamp.
Brewery Eschenbrau
eschenbraeu.de
Photo: Crafty Ramblings
A brewing startup in red Wedding, whose owner never tires of repeating that he doesn’t need tourists here, but in practice he is friendly and welcomes everyone. Dark, light, seasonal beer, schnapps and Brandenburg apple juice, and for a snack - pretzel or Alsatian flammkuchen (pie with onions, bacon and cheese). By the way, you can bring food with you. It's nice here in the summer when there is a beer garden in the courtyard. The owner of the pub, Markus, a graduate of the Technical University of Berlin, often works behind the bar himself. He will be happy to talk about his path to success if he has a minute of time.
Ziervogels Kult Curry
Kult-curry.de
Photo: Ziervogels Kult Curry
Don't think it's popular National dishes only offered in tourist restaurants. Berliners love curry sausages, and Kult Curry offers you to eat them in the relaxed atmosphere of a cafe, where a motley crowd gathers for lunch - from painters and installers to programmers and marketers from surrounding offices. Pay attention to Menu 2, scharf zwei (medium spicy) - two sausages with potatoes, ketchup, mayonnaise and a drink. If you have lunch like this, it will be very easy to refuse dinner.
Berlin itself is not a very German city, so don’t expect to see a huge number of beer gardens, sausage shops and medieval taverns here. Berlin is a metropolitan city and, moreover, an international one, so its culinary options are significantly different from Munich, Düsseldorf or Frankfurt.
Sure try German sausages(Wurst, Wurstchen, Würstel), which are traditionally served with sauerkraut stewed cabbage(Sauerkraut), or with potato salad(Kartoffelsalat), which is a mixture of boiled potatoes with mayonnaise and onions, and is most often served cold. Rich local beer goes well with all this - try it Berliner Kindl, beer sold in funny little bottles or huge wide glasses with the addition of red (berry) or green (mint) syrups. At first it seems that beer with syrup is an unheard of abomination, but after the first sip you truly fall in love with this drink.
Our advice: Don't be afraid to order bottled beer, but only local beer. In Germany, it is believed that local beer from bottles is preserved better, and therefore sometimes costs even more than draft beer.
Once you've tasted hearty German cuisine, don't stop there. What could be more German in the 21st century than going to Turkish fast food (Döner Kebab). Turkish fast food culture is firmly rooted in Germany, and especially in Berlin, where, according to various sources, up to 100 thousand Turks live. The reason for the success of Turkish eateries: simplicity, tasty and satisfying dishes, and also, budget. Ordinary döner in a bun will cost you 2-3 euros (and you can eat this for half a day!), in addition, we recommend trying analogues shawarma(Dürüm), Turkish pizza(Lahmacun), rolled into a tube and a large plate with rice, vegetables and meat (Döner Teller), it will cost you 5-6 euros. You can wash down these goodies with Turkish tea or a milk drink. ayran.
This is the kind of food that is popular among ordinary Berliners. But, in addition, there is a wide variety of cuisines and restaurants from all over the world. In Berlin, in principle, from the very beginning it turned out that very interesting culinary places can be found in completely abandoned areas, so we won’t spoil your fun: take a map, walk and go to any place you like - you definitely can’t go wrong. It is in Berlin that you can get the most pleasure from “discovering” your places.
Well, we’ll just recommend a few places that are close to us in spirit, interesting, and perhaps convey the atmosphere of Berlin the most! In principle, to have lunch in Berlin for more than 30 euros, you need to try really hard. But for your convenience, we will still divide the establishments into price groups.
Cafes and restaurants in Berlin
Eat for 10-15 euros
1.
Löwenbräu am Gedarmenmarkt(U: Stadtmitte)
Leipziger Strasse 65
http://www.loewenbraeu-berlin.de/
Classic German place, sometimes even too much. Well, at least for Berlin. Here you can order sausages with cabbage or with a salted pretzel (Laugenrezel), and also drink the famous Munich beer Löwenbräu. TripAdvice advises: Call this beer not “lowenbrau”, but “löwenbrau” - that’s how it’s correctly pronounced in German.
2 white sausages with salted pretzel: 5.50 euros
Large homemade sausage, sauerkraut, fried potatoes: 8.50 euros
Meat plate with roast pork, turkey and beef: 15.50 euros
2.
Cafe Morgenland(U: Görlitzer Bahnhof)
Skalitzerstr. 35
Ah, Kreuzberg, Kreuzberg, the real soul of Berlin has settled here. If you want to get a feel for this city, be sure to take an early morning stroll through Kreuzberg and then stop by Morgenland for a wonderful and very extensive brunch. Spend an hour and a half meeting the public, reading, and eating numerous fruits, yoghurts, freshly baked buns, and enjoying aromatic cappuccino.
Brunch buffet: 9.00 euros
Lunch with wine: 12-15 euros
3.
Cafe-Restaurant Miro(U: Frankfurter Tor)
Niederbarnimstr. 25
If you are staying in Friedrichshain, be sure to have breakfast here. After all, Miro is a unique place: a dull interior, visitors sit cross-legged on soft cushions, and in general, everything is very Berlin-like.
Brunch: 8.50 euros
Lunch with wine: about 15 euros
4.
Hasir DonerKreuzberg(U: Kottbusser Tor)
Adalbertstr. 10
http://www.hasir.de
Hasir is an advanced guy, he even has his own website on which he promotes his six points. It all started with a small cafe in Kreuzberg, where we advise you to go. For a substantial meal, order a plate (Iskender or Döner Teller) with vegetables, rice and skewered meat. Well, if you don’t want to go to Kreuzberg, on the website you will find other establishments from old Hasir.
Regular döner in a bun: 2.70 euros
On a plate: 6.50 euros
5.
Am Nussbaum(U: Klosterstrasse)
Am Nußbaum 3
The small and inexpensive eatery "At the Hazel Tree" is one of the favorite places of the young Berlin public living nearby. Ideal for recuperating after a walk around Museum Island.
Schnitzel with egg: 10-12 euros
Average bill with beer: 15 euros
6. La Crapule (U: Schlesisches Tor)
Skalitzerstraße 68
It's definitely worth stopping by for lunch prepared by the French chef. You can taste the soup of the day, main course and dessert - all for mere pennies. In addition, there is a selection of very good wines to accompany your dinner - naturally from France.
French lunch: 7 euros
7.
Cafe Lebensmittel in Mitte(U: Westphalweg)
Kochstraße 2
A cute little cafe-shop that, despite its name (which actually translates to “Food Cafe”), serves delicious German food like macaroni and cheese (Käsespätzle). The place is amazing, and definitely worth a visit if you wander into the Mariendorf area.
Cost of lunch with beer: 8-10 euros
Eat for 15-30 euros
8.
Zur Nolle(U,S: Friedrichstrasse)
Georgenstraße / S-Bahnbogen 203
http://www.berliner-antikmarkt.de/Hauptgerichte.139.0.html
A good restaurant serving German cuisine, amazingly combining modern design with traditional decorative elements for German establishments! Located a stone's throw from the famous Humboldt University(Humbolt Universität Berlin).
Spaghetti Bolognese: 7.90 euros
Pork schnitzel hunter's style with mushrooms: 11.50 euros
Warm apple strudel: 3.80 euros
9.
Viva Mexico(U: Zinnowitzer Straße)
Chausseestrasse 36
A piece of hot Mexico in the very center of Berlin. This is a family restaurant with primitive service, old tablecloths on wooden tables. But the food is amazing, and a certain casualness of the place gives it its charm - it’s like you’re committing short trip to Mexican lands. There is tequila and mezcal here for every taste.
Average bill with wine: 20 euros
10.
Cafe Einstein Unten den Linden(S: Unten den Linden)
Unten den Linden 42
http://www.einsteinudl.com/
A real cafe-mood on the famous Unten den Linden street. In addition to the fact that you can sit in a wonderful environment under the crowns of linden trees, interesting exhibitions and galleries are constantly held here. Check the website for the schedule.
Average breakfast bill: 10 euros
Average bill for lunch: 18 euros
11.
LaCocote(U: Eisenacherstraße)
Vorbergstrasse 10
http://www.lacocotte.de
This French restaurant, decorated with candles and modern works of artists, looks very authentic, despite the fact that it is located in Berlin Schöneberg. The real delicacy here is oeufs cocotte truffés - made from truffles and eggs. A must try.
Egg truffles: 5.50 euros
Imperial salad: 6.60 euros / 9.90 euros (depending on portion)
Pancakes with raspberries, mint and orange syrup: 5.90 euros
12.
Cafe Sybille(U: Strausbergerplatz)
Karl-Marx-Allee 72
A cafe for the proletariat, it was under this slogan that it appeared 50 years ago. Today, this establishment is true to its history: it is cozy, serves coffee in large cups and bakes homemade pies. But it’s worth having breakfast here, if only to feel like you’re in a typical GDR cafe.
Breakfast with coffee: 6-8 euros
Lunch with wine: 15 euros
13.
Deponie#3 (U,S: Friedrichstrasse)
Georgenstrasse 5
http://www.deponie3.de/
A real Berlin establishment in the very center, not far from Museum Island, invites you to have an inexpensive and very tasty lunch. Both Berliners and city guests eat here, and the atmosphere, like the food, leaves no complaints. Tasty, pleasant, convenient!
Hunter's schnitzel: 7.80 euros
Large salad plate: 8.50 euros
Berlin pork leg (Eisbein): 11.80 euros
14.
Entrecote(U: Stadtmitte)
Schützenstrasse 5
http://www.entrecote.de
Once here, you are transported to a small corner of Paris with its grace and romance. That’s why you should eat exclusively French dishes here: onion soup, French steak and all kinds of seasonal salads.
Onion soup, cheese slices: 8.50 euros
Corsican salad with sheep's cheese, tomatoes and olives: 11.50 euros
Small steak with potatoes and salad: 19.50 euros
15.
Monsieur Vuong(U: Rosa-Luxemburg-Platz)
Alte Schönhauser Str. 46
http://www.monsieurvuong.de
This Vietnamese restaurant is one of best places for lunch in East Berlin. Stunning interior and exquisite Vietnamese cuisine, as well as an interesting crowd - all this should attract you to Monsieur Vong. This is not a place for long gatherings with friends, but for lunch it is the most suitable restaurant.
Lunch with wine: 15-20 euros
Eat for 30 euros or more
16.
Neugrünsköche(U: Eberswalder Straße)
Schönhauser Allee 135a
http://www.neugruenskoeche.de
This place, hidden in one of the courtyards of East Berlin, is distinguished by the fact that there is no dinner menu, but a menu of three or four courses, which you can order. Therefore, when going here, allow a couple of hours for your meal, but it will be worth it.
Three course menu: 36 euros
Four course menu: 39 euros
17.
Franuccini's Restorante(U: Adenauersplatz)
Kurfürstendamm 90
http://www.francucci.com/
This Italian restaurant on Kudamma is famous not only for its delicious Italian cuisine, but also for specific dishes, such as the Bistecca Fiorentina Chianina steak, made from the most tender meat of the white Chianina cow. In addition, President Giorgio Napolitano named this establishment one of the 25 best Italian restaurants in the world outside of Italy.
Hearty lunch with Chianti: 30 euros
