Prenzlauer Berg

Prenzlauer Berg has transformed from a rough East Berlin working-class district into a polished old-building quarter with a café culture. Around Kollwitzplatz, Helmholtzplatz and Kastanienallee, restored 19th-century facades, playgrounds and small boutiques set the tone. On weekends, families and brunch-goers meet at the farmers' markets, and on Sundays Mauerpark draws thousands with its flea market and karaoke.

For food, the neighborhood is a stronghold of breakfast and brunch, along with many cafés with their own roastery and laid-back restaurants in the side streets. Evenings are quieter than in Friedrichshain but cozier, in the pubs around Helmholtzplatz. If you're traveling with children or prefer something more settled, you'll stay here pleasantly close to the center yet relaxed.