Reuterkiez (Kreuzkölln)

An area of Berlin which perfectly represents the most recent urban transformation in Berlin is this vibrant 70-hectare area on the border between the districts of Friedrichshain-Kreuzberg and Neukӧlln. Kreuzkölln combines the relentless nightlife of bohemian Kreuzberg with the raw, gritty appeal of multicultural Neukӧlln. The beautiful stretch of canal along Maybachufer and Kottbusser Damm form the Northern border of Kreuzkӧlln, bustling Sonnenallee the West, and Wildenbruchstraβe the East. The neighbourhood has become increasingly fashionable in recent years, partly due to the closure of Tempelhof airport in 2008. The area was no longer under a flight path, and properties became more desirable. This has brought a wave of hipsters and expats to the area, sparking a big debate about gentrification.

Even Google Maps is behind the times here, so the best way to find the newest chilled-out cafes and bars is to take a walk around. Amongst graffiti-covered period apartment buildings and defunct businesses you will find many hidden gems. Understated record store OYE attracts die-hard vinyl collectors and has a fantastic Detroit techno section. Fantasiakulisse on Flughafenstraβe is a collection of vintage movie and theatre props which is fascinating to explore, even if you’re not in the market for a dusty mannequin or ancient lamp. Stop by Die Buchkönigin on Hobrechtstraβe, a literary haven where you’re sure to find an irresistibly quirky second-hand book - or two - to take home. On the corner is Sing Blackbird, a delightful vintage clothing store displaying carefully chosen pieces from the 70s, 80s and 90s. Boutique clothing stores like minimalist Mirikado and trendy Icke nod to the new breed of creative young entrepreneurs who are populating Kreuzkölln.

Great food can be found here in the Reuterkiez. One of Berlin’s most popular burger joints is located on Pannierstraβe. Berlinburger International has become famous for its meaty monstrosities, with new specials every month. For the more adventurous, try Sauvage, Berlin’s first ‘paleolithic’ restaurant serving food without grains, gluten, refined sugar or dairy. The current coolest bars and clubs can also be found in the Reuterkiez, including low-key live music hangout Ä, and Soulcat, where you will hear exclusively 50s and 60s vinyl. People spill out of bars and onto the streets creating a lively atmosphere, even on weekdays. The light from clubs and bars make formerly dim, dingy streets pulsate with electricity. Sonnenallee is a hive of activity, wisps of fruity smoke drifting from its numerous shisha bars. Although there is always a new epicentre of cool in Berlin, for now the action is here.