Lichtenberg is a borough steeped in history, culture and fascinating contrasts. Here you’ll find places that serve as a reminder of the division of Germany, encounter vibrant neighbourhoods and discover attractions that blend the past with the present. Our 11 tips will take you to museums, memorials, creative spots and special places where you can experience the district from its many different angles. Join us on a varied tour through Lichtenberg.
Tip 1: Get an overview at the Museum Lichtenberg in the Stadthaus
The perfect starting point for your tour of Lichtenberg is the Stadthaus. At this information, cultural and educational centre, you’ll learn everything you need to know about this district in eastern Berlin.
Centrally located between Nöldnerplatz and Ostkreuz, you can easily fit a visit to the Stadthaus into your trip to Lichtenberg. And with the new permanent exhibition and changing special exhibitions, you’re guaranteed to be up to date afterwards.
When: Daily except Mondays from 11 am to 6 pm
Where: Türrschmidtstraße 24, Lichtenberg
More about the Museum Lichtenberg in the Stadthaus
Tip 2: Fall in love with the Kaskelkiez – with its cafés, little shops and authentic neighbourhood atmosphere
The Kaskelkiez is one of the most charming corners of Lichtenberg. Amidst old buildings, quiet streets and small cafés, you’ll discover a relaxed side of Berlin that feels almost a little hidden away.
Grab an ice cream at SchokoLadenEis-Manufaktur, browse through the lovingly selected products at Jelänger Jelieber, or simply sit outside with a coffee and watch the neighbourhood come to life. It is particularly around Nöldnerplatz that Lichtenberg shows its most creative and neighbourly side.
Where: Kaskelkiez, Lichtenberg
Tip 3: Look over the shoulders of artists in the B.L.O. studios
Tucked away between old industrial halls and railway tracks are the B.L.O. studios, one of the most exciting creative hubs in Lichtenberg. On the former railway site, artists, designers and cultural practitioners now work in workshops and studios.
At exhibitions, open studio days and events, you can discover how art is created here and how creatively a former industrial site can be used. The place feels raw, improvised and yet full of ideas – that’s exactly what gives the B.L.O. Studios their special charm.
When: Monday to Friday from 10 am to 3 pm
Where: Kaskelstraße 55, Lichtenberg
Tip 4: Architectural highlight on the Spree: The Reethaus at the Flussbad
The Reethaus on the site of the former municipal Flussbad is currently one of the most exciting places in Berlin. Already named one of the 100 greatest places in the world by Time Magazine, this reed-built structure forms the heart of the Slowness Campus. Here, architecture, culture and nature merge to create a retreat for slowing down (“Longevity”) and creative exchange – right on the banks of the Spree.
You can look forward to a progressive cultural programme, ranging from musical performances and art installations to discussion-based events. Please always book your ticket online in advance for the event in question.
When: depending on the programme
Where: Köpenicker Chaussee 3a, Lichtenberg
Tip 5: Discover Lichtenberg on a neighbourhood tour with Positive Vibes Berlin
Lichtenberg is full of stories – and with the tours from Positive Vibes Berlin, you’ll discover them from a whole new perspective. Together with local guides, you’ll explore neighbourhoods, courtyards and places where past and present meet. It’s not just about historical facts, but also about the district’s way of life and the people who shape it.
The tours show you Lichtenberg beyond the classic sights and introduce you to corners that many visitors to Berlin would otherwise miss.
When: Dates vary depending on the tour
Where: various meeting points in Lichtenberg
Tip 6: Enjoy theatre at Germany’s largest children’s and youth theatre
Take a listed building, three stages, 600 seats and a passion for theatre – the result is the Theater an der Parkaue, Germany’s largest theatre for children and young people. Here, theatre is lived and loved, ranging from classic productions to cutting-edge plays.
So there’s something for everyone, and you’re sure to fall hopelessly in love with this charming theatre from your very first visit.
When: Opening hours vary depending on the performance
Where: Parkaue 29, Lichtenberg
More about the Theater an der Parkaue
Tip 7: Immerse yourself in new audiovisual worlds at Dark Matter
Dark Matter – an old factory hall in Lichtenberg that will captivate you with spectacular sound and light installations. Across seven rooms, you’ll discover computer-controlled sculptures that react to visitors, making every visit unique.
The man behind it all is Berlin-based artist and designer Chris Bauder. His audiovisual installations have found a permanent home at Dark Matter and will enchant you anew every time.
When: Wednesday and Thursday from 2 pm to 10 pm, Friday from 12 pm to 11 pm, Saturday from 11 am to 11 pm and Sunday from 11 am to 10 pm
Where: Köpenicker Chaussee 46, Lichtenberg
Tip 8: Explore history at the Campus for Democracy
Where the Stasi headquarters of the GDR once stood, the Campus for Democracy is now located. The extensive grounds around Normannenstraße are among the most important sites commemorating the division of Germany.
Amidst historic buildings, exhibitions and archives, you’ll gain an insight into the extent to which the Stasi controlled people’s lives. At the same time, the Campus today stands for coming to terms with the past, exchange and democratic education.
Through guided tours and events, you’ll learn how a place of surveillance became an open space for discussion and remembrance.
Where: Ruschestraße 103, Lichtenberg
Tip 9: Learn about individual stories at the Hohenschönhausen Memorial
The atmosphere is oppressive, the rooms cramped, and yet it is important to be reminded of this part of German history. The Stasi prison in Hohenschönhausen stands as a symbol of 44 years of political persecution in the GDR. Today , the building houses a memorial commemorating dissidents, escape helpers and political prisoners.
During your visit, you’ll learn about individual stories and discover just how active the Stasi was in West Berlin too.
When: Daily from 9 am to 6 pm
Where: Genslerstraße 66, Hohenschönhausen
More about the Hohenschönhausen Memorial
Tip 10: Marvel at New Building at Haus Lemke
In Alt-Hohenschönhausen, you’ll find a very special house with a fascinating history. Designed by the architect Mies van der Rohe , Haus Lemke – named after the Lemke couple, who were industrialists – was built here in 1932 and 1933.
It was to be van der Rohe’s last house in Germany. Shortly afterwards, he fled to the USA to escape the Nazis. You’ll be captivated by the simple beauty of this building in the New Building style. Inside, you can visit changing exhibitions on art and architecture.
When: Daily except Mondays from 11am to 5pm
Where: Oberseestraße 60, Alt-Hohenschönhausen
More about the Mies van der Rohe House
Tip 11: Learn about endings and new beginnings at the Museum Berlin-Karlshorst
Remembrance, Encounter, Understanding – three words that sum up the theme of the Museum Berlin-Karlshorst. At this historic site, the museum tells the story of 9 May 1945 and Germany’s unconditional surrender in the Second World War.
The extensive exhibition, featuring original materials, takes you back to the period between the end and the new beginning, and also recounts the times following ‘Hour Zero’.
When: Daily except Mondays from 10 am to 6 pm
Where: Zwieseler Straße 4, Karlshorst
