t Mauerpark flea market in northern Berlin
Berlin has it all in terms of retail, from second-hand stores to Germany’s best luxury malls. The city’s shops are also strong on antiques, books, art, porcelain and records, and a visit to the city’s historical market halls is not to be missed.
t Mauerpark flea market in northern Berlin
Most neighbourhoods offer a large market of some kind, usually food on Saturdays and a flea market on Sundays. The food markets at Kollwitzplatz (Prenzlauer Berg) and Boxhagener Platz (Friedrichshain) are especially popular, as are the Mauerpark flea market and Arkonaplatz antiques market.
Kurfürstendamm is the boulevard to head to for Chanel, Louis Vuitton, Prada and Gucci. Intersecting Tauentzien strasse has a swish Peek & Cloppenburg, several upscale stores such as Swarovski and Montblanc, and the renowned KaDeWe department store, which has a fabulous gourmet food area on the sixth floor. Friedrichstrasse’s Galerie Lafayette also has a selection of upscale haute couture, including Dior and Miu Miu.
Mitte remains the home to Berlin’s most cutting-edge designers. Knitwear veteran Claudia Skoda, jewellery designer Esther Perbandt and Wibke Deertz (A.D.Deertz) display their designs along the district’s boutique-lined side streets.
Vintage stores are a staple in Berlin, and there’s at least one great one in most neighbour hoods. The hugely popular PICKNWEIGHT chain – where you pay by weight – has stores in several areas, and also runs Mitte’s Made in Berlin and Garage in Schöneberg. Friedrichshain’s Humana Kaufhaus is a one-stop shop for all ages and styles.
Berlin fights the winter gloom with festive Christmas Markets. They’re all slightly different, ranging from the intimate to the spectacular. All offer Glühwein (mulled wine), snacks and an assortment of gifts and entertainment.