Berlin: Two hidden spots “on the beaten path”

Stroll through Moabit Prison Historical Park. Photo: Philip Cohen

I love Berlin for all its obscure corners and strange places. And some of the best “hidden” spots are actually out in the open, right on the beaten path. As my time in Berlin comes to a close, allow me to share some of my favorite urban oases.

1. Kunsthof
Oranienburger Straße 27
Mitte

On Oranienburger Strasse, where packs of tourists pass ladies of the night, there’s a quiet cobblestone courtyard. Inside, there are a few art galleries of questionable caliber and overpriced cafes. But what I love about this space is how silent it is, especially compared to the around-the-clock noise of the street just outside. This is a great place to take a seat on a public bench and write postcards.

3. RAW Tempel
Revaler Straße 99
Friedrichshain

RAW Tempel, a former train depot-turned-cultural space, isn’t exactly unknown, but not many visitors to Friedrichshain see it, which is a shame. The huge warehouses have been converted into concert halls, skating ramp and clubs. You can catch a film, buy secondhand stuff at the flea market or even rent climbing gear and scale a bunker.

And if you want to get off the beaten path, there are countless hidden gems like these. But that’s for another story…

Also in our guide: We also have recommendations for great hidden hotels in Berlin, all of them visited, inspected and reviewed by our editors. Read more in our Berlin hotel guide.