Exploring Neukölln feels like discovering an entirely new city. As one of Berlin’s most multifaceted boroughs, it seamlessly blends historic charm with urban energy and a modern atmosphere. With its vibrant art scene, lively nightlife, and diverse food culture, this district stands out as truly unique.In fact, Neukölln's culinary landscape is an ode to its diversity as a truly multicultural haven. Its neighbourhoods are as thriving and colourful as the communities who live in them. Visitors are captivated by Neukölln's unique fusion of trend and tradition, with newer shops, galleries and eateries alongside historic establishments. The local bar and club scene also attracts revellers and night owls from every corner of the city.
Tip: Find more information about Neukölln and create your own customized tours in our Going local app - the neighbourhood app for Berlin.
Tip 1: Experience a fusion of cultures at Heimathafen
Heimathafen is the perfect cultural platform for a place as diverse as Neukölln. Both locals and visitors are treated to a wide range of performances, including plays, slams, readings and musical acts in a splendid ballroom theatre. The space is a close reflection of the neighbourhood and its ever-changing abundance of colours and cultures. All are welcome to join in the experience, where cultural influences converge.
Where: Karl-Marx-Straße 141, Neukölln
When: See programme listings
Tip 2: While away a jazz-filled evening at Donau 115
Music is a part of Neukölln's beating heart, and there's no better place to feel it than at Donau 115. This much-praised micro jazz bar hosts live performances that capture the essence of the district's artistic soul. Known for the quality and originality of its musical offerings, the space also welcomes experimental projects and evolves with the times. It's the perfect intimate venue for a cosy evening with fellow music lovers.
Where: Donaustraße 115, Neukölln
When: Tuesday to Saturday 7.30pm till late
Tip 3: Indulge in a courtyard brunch at 21 Gramm
For a culinary experience that transcends the ordinary, 21 Gramm is well worth a visit. Housed inside a former chapel at St Thomas cemetery, this hip eatery is known for its mouth-watering breakfast and brunch fare, including some vegan options. Inside the lovingly restored building is a column-lined dining room with a beautiful domed ceiling. During the warmer months, the courtyard provides a tranquil spot to linger over coffee or a glass of wine.
Where: Hermannstraße 179, Neukölln
When: Tuesday to Sunday 9.30am - 5pm
Tip 4: View avant-garde exhibitions in a remarkable setting at KINDL
Fitting right into Neukölln's international landscape, the KINDL Centre for Contemporary Art is a modern venue that fuses architectural history with contemporary art by international avant-garde artists. This former brewery was transformed into an impressive space for exhibitions, performances, concerts and screenings, with a strong focus on social issues. Reimagined from a historic Expressionist building, the site retains a great deal of its original industrial character.
Where: Am Sudhaus 3, Neukölln
When: Wednesday 12pm - 8pm, Thursday to Sunday 12pm - 6pm
More about the KINDL Centre for Contemporary Art
Tip 5: Catch your favourite Stars in Concert at the ESTREL Showtheater
Neukölln doesn't shy away from glitz and glamour. You'll find plenty of that at the Estrel Showtheater: Stars in Concert. In this entertainment extravaganza, world-class performers pay tribute to legendary artists. The uncanny lookalikes transport you through decades, delivering show-stopping hits from ABBA, the Beatles, Elvis Presley and more. With dazzling performances every week, Stars in Concert takes you on an immersive journey into musical legends that will leave you in awe. Who needs Las Vegas when you have Neukölln?
Where: Sonnenallee 225, Neukölln
When: See programme listings
More about "Stars in Concert“ At the ESTREL Showtheater
Tip 6: Join in the fun at Theater im Keller
The glamour continues at Neukölln's beloved Theater im Keller, where a popular drag show takes centre stage. This unconventional cabaret is a celebrated part of the local scene with a reputation far beyond Berlin. The unique dance and music performances at TiK combine humour with exceptional talent and encourage the audience to be part of the lively entertainment. Indulge in tapas and Spanish cuisine at the gastropub located in theatre's foyer for a delightful post-show treat.
Where: Weserstraße 211, Neukölln
When: Thursday, Friday, Saturday from 8.30pm
More about "Theater im KelleR"
Tip 7: Be noble for a day at the Britz Castle
Neukölln reveals its regal side at Britz Castle (Schloss und Gutshof Britz). This majestic manor was built in 1706 and comes with a storied past and a cast of noble characters, including Count von Hertzberg. Renovated in the 1980s, the estate now features a museum showcasing Berlin's Gründerzeit residential culture. Visitors can wander through the two-hectare castle park, adorned with garden art and the city's oldest ginkgo tree. Concerts, operas and film screenings are held on its large open-air stage, while the farm buzzes with events like apple festivals and medieval fairs. Visit Restaurant Buchholz located on the castle grounds to indulge in regional specialities and enjoy the picturesque surroundings.
Where: Alt-Britz 73, Neukölln
When: Tuesday to Sunday 12pm – 6pm
More about "Schloss & Gutshof Britz"
Tip 8: Enjoy a night at the opera with a difference at the Neuköllner Oper
An opera house unlike any other, Neuköllner Oper presents international projects and co-productions to a broad audience. Founded in the 1970s, this notable pioneer of German-Turkish musical theatre has been at home in a former ballroom on Karl-Marx-Straße since 1988. With deep roots in Neukölln, the company presents modern interpretations of operatic works that combine entertainment with meaningful storytelling. In the spirit of operatic tradition, Neuköllner Oper enriches the present with emotional, complex and diverse performances, reflecting an open and ever-evolving society.
Where: Karl-Marx-Straße 131-133, Neukölln
When: Tuesday 3pm – 7pm and on performance days from 3pm
Tip 9: Let your wild side out at SchwuZ and Pepsi Boston Bar
With a history dating back to 1977, SchwuZ is a well-known beacon in Berlin's queer scene. Formerly in Kreuzberg, the establishment relocated to Neukölln over ten years ago and now has strong connections to the local community. In addition to the regular theme parties, SchwuZ offers an eclectic range of events to suit every taste, spanning pop, retro, electro and techno. The club's three rooms include the intimate Pepsi Boston Bar, a moonlit playground for the city's LGBTQIA+ community. Named after a queer legend, Pepsi Boston, the bar/lounge hosts an array of events on its stage, from drag shows to quizzes. With free entry on weekdays, it's a hotspot for creative expression, inclusivity and a celebration of Neukölln's vibrant nightlife.
Where: Rollbergstraße 26, Neukölln
When: See programme listings
More about the SchwuZ Queer Club
Tip 10: Forge new skills at Rixdorf Schmiede
Rixdorf Schmiede stands as a living part of Neukölln's history. As Berlin's oldest blacksmith forge, it has sustained its fiery legacy for nearly four centuries. This modest artisanal workshop, idyllically situated in the charming environs of old Rixdorf, is dedicated to preserving its time-honoured craft. Led by Katharina and Martin, the workshop crafts custom knives and jewellery and restores fences and various fittings for historic buildings. Its doors are open to visitors for events and workshops, where enthusiasts can learn the ancient forging techniques and fashion their own knives and axes.
Where: Richardplatz 28, Neukölln
When: Monday to Friday 8am – 6pm
More about "Rixdorfer Schmiede"
Tip 11: Revel in hip-hop heaven at Little Stage Club
Conclude your Neukölln adventure at Little Stage, an intimate venue that showcases emerging talents in the district. Just ring at the door and you'll be invited in to discover the raw, unfiltered creativity that defines Neukölln's local music scene. Hip-hop, rap and jam sessions resonate in this intimate space – the perfect finale to an eventful day out in Neukölln.
Where: Jonasstraße 1, Neukölln
When: Monday, Wednesday, Friday and Saturday from 8pm
