Friedrichshain-Kreuzberg is alive with vibrant creativity. This district caters to all tastes, whether you're an active sports enthusiast or an arts and culture fan. Museumgoers will find world-class museums, compelling exhibitions and renowned permanent collections. But the area also boasts fine dining, outdoor activities and theatrical experiences – an eclectic mix that offers something for everyone in this lively and promising part of the city.
Tip: Find more information about Friedrichshain-Kreuzberg and create your own customized tours in our Going local app - the neighbourhood app for Berlin.
Tip 1: Explore Kreuzberg's past and present in Bergmannstraße
At the heart of the trendy Bergmannkiez neighbourhood, Bergmannstraße transforms into a vibrant zone between Südstern and Mehringdamm. This multicultural boulevard features an eclectic mix of thrift shops, traditional cafés and diverse eateries. Weekends come alive with the bustling flea market on Marheinekeplatz, where you can find everything from antiques and toys to vinyl records and vintage fashion. The charming Gründerzeit buildings, the restored Marheineke Market Hall and the ancient Bergmannstraße Churchyards invite visitors to discover Berlin's authentic soul.
When: Around the clock, opening hours vary from shop to shop
Where: Bergmannstraße, Kreuzberg
More Information about Bergmannstraße
Tip 2: Browse the global food market at Markthalle Neun
Markthalle Neun, a beloved gastronomic haven in Kreuzberg's Wrangelkiez neighbourhood, redefines the city's food landscape by championing a different way of eating and shopping. The historic market hall, saved from conversion into a supermarket by dedicated locals, now pulses with life. The stalls boast a broad selection, including fresh fish and seafood, craft beer, Italian baked goods and pasta, with a spotlight on global specialities on Fridays and Saturdays. Meet the regional producers, bakers and brewers who form the community's culinary hub and promote sustainable food practices.
When: Monday, Wednesday and Friday from 12 to 6 pm, Thursday from 12 to 10 pm and Saturday from 10 am to 6 pm
Where: Pücklerstraße 34, Kreuzberg
The Markthalle Neun in Kreuzberg
Tip 3: View cutting-edge contemporary art at the Berlinische Galerie
The Berlinische Galerie is one of the highlights of Berlin's dynamic modern art scene. It is home of modern and contemporary artworks that have been created in Berlin since 1870 and take you through the centuries. The museum's central space, a former industrial hall now bathed in luminous white, features everything from Classical Modernism to contemporary installations. Outdoor sculptures, concerts and lectures inspire visitors and encourage them to reimagine contemporary art. The bright, ultra-modern Café Dix is the ideal post-museum retreat offering seasonal cuisine and a spacious, sunny terrace.
When: Friday to Monday from 10 am to 6 pm, Wednesday from 10 am to 6 pm, Thursday from 10 am to 8 pm
Where: Alte Jakobstraße 124-128, Kreuzberg
More about the Berlinische Galerie and Café Dix
Tip 4: Feast your eyes and your taste buds at Intimes
One of Friedrichshain's most charming cultural gems is the Intimes, an arthouse cinema and café situated in the lively Boxhagener Kiez. This historic picture house dates back to 1909, making it one of the oldest in Berlin. Today it sports a distinctive 1970s look and screens new releases as well as independent and foreign language films. The attached restaurant/café and bar serves Mediterranean cuisine based on original recipes for an inimitable fusion of the visual and culinary arts.
When: Cinema depending on show times; café: Sunday to Thursday from 10 a.m. to 1 a.m., Friday and Saturday from 10 a.m. to 2 a.m.
Where: Boxhagener Str. 107, Friedrichshain
More about the Intimes cinema café
Tip 5: Indulge in art, culture and food at Holzmarkt
Since 2012, Holzmarkt 25 has flourished along the Spree, evolving from tents on dusty ground to a thriving urban quarter in Friedrichshain. A true oasis inside the city, it embodies Berlin's indomitable spirit of adaptation and grassroots urbanism. Once a barren expanse, it now thrives with a cooperative ethos, featuring concerts, arts, diverse gastronomy and creative enterprises. The wooden facades and colourful flags pay homage to its timber trade history, and within you'll find a beer garden, bakery, restaurant, theatre and more. With a variety of events throughout the year and an enchanting Christmas market, Holzmarkt creates a cosy village feel in the heart of the city and is the perfect start for a trip into Berlin's nightlife, as there are many more clubs to discover all around.
When: Opening hours depending on the event
Where: Holzmarktstraße, Friedrichshain
More about the Holzmarkt
Tip 6: Discover an artistic hub within a historic hospital at Bethanien
Dating back to the 1800s, Bethanien was once a hospital before becoming the heart of the squatter scene in the 1970s. This historic landmark now houses Kunstraum Kreuzberg/Bethanien, a cultural forum hosting artist studios, exhibitions and multimedia programmes. Explore the rich history, original pharmacy interiors, free studio tours and a unique fusion of art, history and cuisine in this dynamic contemporary art space. Visitors can also enjoy a meal at the 3 Schwestern restaurant, situated in an atmospheric vaulted hall inside the historical site.
When: 3 Schwestern: Monday to Friday from 5pm to 11pm, Saturday and Sunday from 11am to 11pm; Künstlerhaus Bethanien: Tuesday to Sunday from 2pm to 7pm
Where: Künstlerhaus Bethanien, Mariannenplatz 2 and Kottbusser Straße 10d, Kreuzberg; 3 Schwestern, Mariannenplatz 2, Kreuzberg
Mehr zum Kunstraum Kreuzberg/Bethanien
Tip 7: Learn about Jewish culture at the Jewish Museum Berlin
Designed by Daniel Libeskind, the Jewish Museum Berlin is an exceptional work of art, with zigzagging corridors and symbolic voids representing the losses from the Holocaust. The multimedia exhibits guide visitors from the Middle Ages to today, revealing the full diversity of Jewish culture. ANOHA, the children's museum, encourages younger visitors to engage with the exhibits, adding an interactive dimension to this ancestral journey. Through special exhibits, the Torah and intriguing sound spaces, the museum unveils layers of history and asks us to learn, understand and reflect.
When: Monday to Sunday from 10 am to 7 pm
Where: Lindenstraße 9-14, Kreuzberg
More about the Jewish Museum
Tip 8: Find out whodunnit at the Berliner Kriminal Theater
Cryptic mysteries unfold at the Berliner Kriminal Theater, a unique theatre located in Umspannwerk Ost, a century-old substation. The ensemble has been bringing crime and thriller genres to life since 2000, resonating with a growing audience. Suspenseful performances, from classic Agatha Christie tales to contemporary works by authors like Henning Mankell, are staged at the atmospheric venue, which harks back to Berlin's industrial past. The venue also houses a restaurant, providing an ideal setting to discuss the aftermath of the mystery.
When: Opening hours depending on the event
Where: Palisadenstraße 48, Friedrichshain
More information about the Berlin Kriminal theater
Tip 9: Enjoy a romantic riverside dinner at Freischwimmer
The Freischwimmer floating restaurant occupies a rustic boathouse along the canal in Kreuzberg. This one-of-a-kind venue boasts a delightful ambience with wooden furnishings, vintage lamps and romantic charm. Diners can indulge in a splendid view of the Spree from the long jetty while enjoying a brunch buffet and seasonal cuisine. Whether on the terrace or inside the cosy interior, the varied menu and relaxed atmosphere promise an enchanting moment on the Flutgraben.
When: Monday to Thursday from 6 pm to 11 pm, Friday from 6 pm to 1 am, Saturday from 10 am to 1 am and Sunday from 10 am to 11 pm
Where: In front of Schlesisches Tor 2, Kreuzberg
More about the Freischwimmer
Tip 10: Reach new speeds at Skatehalle Berlin
Skateboarders will find their thrills at Skatehalle Berlin, an expansive skateboarding hall located within Friedrichshain's trendy RAW site. Boasting Germany's largest indoor half pipe, it serves as a hub for international events, gatherings and lively parties. Next to it stands the impressive 20-metre-high Kletterkegel (climbing cone), which offers vertical challenges for climbing enthusiasts. With a covered skatepark, outdoor skate area, café, cinema, bar and skate shop, this unique facility supports a lively community and diverse youth culture projects. Skatehalle Berlin promises an unparalleled sporting experience for seasoned athletes and spectators alike.
When:
Skatehalle: Tuesday to Thursday from 2 pm to 11 pm, Friday from 12 pm to 11 pm, Saturday and Sunday from 10 am to 11 pm
Der Kegel: Monday to Sunday from 9 am to 11 pm
Where: Revaler Straße 99, Friedrichshain
Tip 11: Immerse yourself in art and architecture at the Gropius Bau
As one of Europe's most important exhibition venues, Gropius Bau showcases modern art, photography and archaeological displays that redefine artistic experiences. Collaborating with contemporary artists, the museum fosters community and an open dialogue. It hosts acclaimed exhibitions, performances, workshops and screenings, offering a blend of history, contemporary culture and international significance within its neo-Renaissance style building. Situated on the border between Kreuzberg and Mitte, Gropius Bau is conveniently close to other cultural highlights in the city.
When: Monday and Wednesday to Friday from 11am to 7pm, Saturday and Sunday from 10am to 7pm
Where: Niederkirchnerstraße 7, Kreuzberg
More information about the Gropius Bau
