Cutting through Berlin’s Mitte district is a street known equally for its Cold War history and its upmarket department stores.
Lined by some of Germany’s most exclusive department stores and surrounded by major historical attractions, the Friedrichstrasse cultural and shopping precinct in Berlin’s Mitte district has undergone extreme change since the fall of the Berlin Wall. However, at its centre find one of the city’s most unusual tourist attractions, throwing you back into the Cold War era. Friedrichstrasse is today one of Berlin’s most visited streets. It is home to Checkpoint CharlieOpens in a new window, one of the very few Cold War border crossings between East and West Berlin.
Catch the U6 underground line to reach Friedrichstrasse. The train line follows the street, offering a number of stations to disembark depending on your destination. Emerge at Stadtmitte to find yourself in the midst of some of Berlin’s best shopping. Spend an afternoon browsing the world’s most exclusive brands at the Berlin branch of Parisian department store Galeries Lafayette. Meander north along the shopping strip to find flagship stores of Europe’s largest fashion retailers.
Heading south you’ll reach the intersection of Zimmerstrasse, with one of Berlin’s most popular attractions. Watch as actors recreate the roles of American border guards at Checkpoint Charlie. A small replica of the original 1960s guardhouse remains in the middle of the street. Have your photo taken with the guards for a unique keepsake.
Discover more about Berlin’s Cold War history at the many museums in the area. Visit the Mauermuseum immediately adjacent to Checkpoint Charlie to hear stories of the wall’s 28-year history. Learn about life on both sides of the war at the asisi Panorama, a Berlin artist’s giant representation of life during the division.
Take a seat at a café or restaurant to sample traditional German cuisine or pick up a coffee to go as you explore the area. Friedrichstrasse is most popular in the daytime during retail hours. However, the neighbourhood still attracts visitors after dark for its many bars and restaurants. See the lively Christmas market during December.
