Kreuzberg district, Berlin
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Kreuzberg - by Boris Mayer from Pixabay
Description
Kreuzberg was one of Berlin's poorest districts up until the German reunification in 1990 but has since been undergoing significant gentrification and is best known for its large immigrant population and alternative lifestyle. The area was very rural until the 2nd half of the 19th century when the city's population started growing quickly in phase with increasing industrialization. Cheap housing was built which made it a popular district for immigrants such as the Ashkenazi Jews and, over the last decades, with Turkish people. The area has historically been home to Berlin's punk rock movement with famous venues such as SO36 and is also the centre of LGBTQ life and arts in the city.
Access & Transport
The U2, U6 and U8 underground lines all cover the area extensively with Kottbusser Tor (U1, US2, U3, U8) being the main public transport node of the district.
Instructions & Recommendations
There are actually several neighbourhoods in this district and several of them have good nightlife spots, so Kreuzberg really is interesting at any time of the day. We recommend combining a visit to the area with the Jewish Museum of Berlin, Checkpoint Charlie or Markthalle Neun (a popular indoor market).
Environmental & Social
Very urban environment with a few green spaces. Not overly commercial, with many independent stores, and culturally diverse.
Conclusion
The Kreuzberg district is still on the rise and provides visitors with a distinct experience Vs the wealthier and less cosmopolitan parts of town. We would not recommend it as a must see for first time visitors except for urban explorers who enjoy the more gritty and countercultural parts of large cities.
Key positive
Some great food spots (Turkish and markets)
Independent boutiques, galleries and street art
Some trendy bars and night clubs
Key negative
Spread out - not all parts of the district are interesting
Some people may feel uncomfortable in specific neighbourhoods at night
Suitability
Suitable for all ages but best for adults and teenagers. Accessible for visitors with reduced mobility
About this Rating
TYPE
Desktop
RESEARCHED IN
May 2024
PROVIDER
Koreval
av. transport time:0h 30m
est. visit time:3h
Sunrise / early morningNo
MorningOk
Lunch timeOk
AfternoonOk
Sunset / eveningOk
Night – bef. midnightOk
Night – aft. midnightNo