Berlin - Kreuzberg
We love Kreuzberg, we think along with Neukoeln it is one of the most interesting and happening areas of Berlin. It is located to the South-East of Berlin's centre and is probably the most colourful and diverse of all the Berlin districts. During the 60's and 70's Kreuzberg was in West Berlin and attracted many artists, non-conformists and punks. Nowadays it's not really radical anymore but it is still a melting pot of diverse cultures. There is a cosmopolitan feel about its inhabitants: young couples, old, Turkish, German, artists and musicians, all giving it a fantastic spirit. The wall has long since disappeared but Kreuzberg has a divide of its own also running along East/West lines. Formerly distinguished by their postcodes 36 (Eastern) and 61 (Western) many locals still refer to them today. The eastern '36'half near to Goerlitzer Bahnhof & Schlesisches Tor, has a more gritty urban feel to it creating an edgy, hip, dynamic neighbourhood which sets many of the trends in Berlin. It is also here where you'll find some of the coolest Berlin bars, around Oranienstrasse, and impromptu outdoor raves in Goerlitzer Park itself. It's also a lovely area for a wander. One walk is to start at Goerlitzer Bahnhof U-Bahn and make your way up to Lausitzer Platz where the church is. From there head back towards the beautiful "Landwehrkanal" where you can stroll along the lovely tree lined Paul-Linke Ufer, the street which borders the canal. Every Tuesday and Friday on the opposite side of the canal at Maybachufer there is a lovely Turkish food market full of every Turkish delight! On the other side of Kottbuser Damm, still by the canal is "Grafekiez", which is one of our favourite areas of Berlin. There is a really chilled out atmosphere with local Turkish, German and foreginers living happily alongside bringing a real flavour to the area.
Moving across to the western half (Kreuzberg 61) around the Gneisenauer Strasse area, you'll find it just as lively, but it has more of a family-friendly yet bohemian atmosphere. Streets such as the famous Bergmanstrasse provide a plethora of smart Berlin cafe's to hop to and from for the traditional Berlin Kaffee und Kuchen (coffee 'n' cake) on a Saturday or brunch on a Sunday afternoon. It is a marvellous area for eating out with so many diverse good quality restaurants around. The nearby beautiful Berlin attraction of Victoria park, with its famous iron cross at the crest (Where Kreuzberg got is name from...Kreuz meaning cross) provides a stunning view over the whole of Berlin, and is a lovely backdrop for a picnic.
For more information check out the Berlin sightseeing and clubbing highlights in our Berlin guide. If you are looking for a place to stay, the best Berlin accommodation can be booked through our website's homepage www.be-my-guest.com. We offer stylish Berlin holiday apartments, B&B's & guest rooms in all centrally located areas of Berlin
