Bornholmer Straße: Where the Wall First Fell
Visit Bornholmer Straße in Berlin, the site of the first Berlin Wall opening in 1989, and reflect on the history of a divided city and its joyous reunification.
Bornholmer Straße marks the historic site of the first border crossing to open during the fall of the Berlin Wall in November 1989. Today, little remains of the original crossing, but the area serves as a poignant reminder of the events that led to Germany's reunification. Visitors can explore commemorative plaques, information panels, and preserved sections of the Hinterland wall, offering insights into the Wall's impact on the city and its people. The nearby Bösebrücke bridge, once a heavily guarded crossing point, now stands as a symbol of unity, inviting reflection on the past and celebration of freedom. While physical remnants are scarce, the location's historical significance and the stories it holds make it a compelling stop for those seeking to understand Berlin's divided past and its triumphant reunification. The area is easily accessible by public transport, making it a convenient and meaningful addition to any Berlin itinerary.
A brief summary to Bornholmer Str.
- Berlin, DE
Local tips
- Take time to walk across the Bösebrücke bridge, imagining the crowds that surged across it on the night the Wall fell.
- Visit the Platz des 9. November 1989 to learn more about the history of the border crossing and the events of that pivotal night.
- Look for the preserved section of the Hinterland wall near the eastern end of the Bösebrücke bridge for a tangible reminder of the division that once existed.
- Explore the surrounding Prenzlauer Berg district, known for its charming streets, cafes, and cultural attractions.
- Consider visiting the Berlin Wall Memorial on Bernauer Straße to gain a deeper understanding of the Wall's history and impact.
Getting There
-
Public Transport
The easiest way to reach Bornholmer Straße is by public transport. Take the S-Bahn to Bornholmer Straße station (lines S1, S2, S25, S26, S8, S85). The station is located directly adjacent to the Bösebrücke bridge, the site of the former border crossing. Alternatively, you can take the tram (lines M13, 50) or bus (lines 50, M13, M27, N2) to the Schönhauser Allee/Bornholmer Straße stop, which is a short walk from the bridge. A single ticket for zones A and B costs €3.50.
-
Taxi/Ride-Share
If arriving by taxi or ride-sharing service, simply provide 'Bornholmer Straße' as your destination. Be aware that traffic can be heavy in this area, especially during peak hours. A taxi ride from Alexanderplatz will cost approximately €15-€20, depending on traffic.
-
Walking
If you are already in the Prenzlauer Berg or Wedding districts, walking to Bornholmer Straße is a viable option. From Mauerpark, head north along Schwedter Straße, then turn right onto Bornholmer Straße. The Bösebrücke bridge will be visible in the distance. From the East Side Gallery, take the S-Bahn from Ostbahnhof to Bornholmer Strasse (approx. 25 minutes). Alternatively, take bus 300 from East Side Gallery to the stop 'Philharmonie' and then take the S-Bahn S1, S2 or S25 to Bornholmer Strasse. The walk from the station is very short.
Discover more about Bornholmer Str.
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Bornholmer Str.
0.0 km
Explore Bornholmer Str. in Berlin, a historic street symbolizing the reunification of East and West, rich in culture, history, and vibrant local life.
Bernauer Str. 63
1.6 km
Discover the historic significance of Bernauer Str. 63 in Berlin, a poignant reminder of the city's divided past and a vibrant cultural hub.
Oderberger Str. 4
1.9 km
Explore the architectural beauty and vibrant atmosphere of Berlin at Oderberger Str. 4, a historical gem in the heart of Pankow.
THE TOWER
1.9 km
Discover THE TOWER in Berlin's Pankow district: a historical landmark nestled in the vibrant Prenzlauer Berg, offering a unique glimpse into the city's past and present.
Bernauer Str.
1.9 km
Experience Berlin's rich history and vibrant culture at Bernauer Strasse, where the past and present intertwine in a remarkable urban landscape.
Piece of the Berlin Wall
2.3 km
Explore the iconic Berlin Wall, a historical landmark that symbolizes the division and reunification of Berlin, rich in art and stories of resilience.
Wolf in the city Mural by Alaniz
2.4 km
Discover the thought-provoking Wolf in the City mural by Alaniz in Berlin's Pankow, a vibrant testament to street art, social justice, and cultural identity.
FRANZ HUTH memorial plaque
2.4 km
A poignant memorial in Berlin's Prenzlauer Berg commemorating Franz Huth, an anti-fascist resistance fighter murdered by the Nazis, serving as a reminder of courage and sacrifice.
Invalidenstraße 10
2.6 km
Explore Invalidenstraße 10, a historical gem in Berlin's Mitte district, showcasing the city's rich architectural heritage and vibrant cultural scene.
Alter Taubenschlag
2.7 km
Explore Alter Taubenschlag, a charming tourist attraction in Berlin's Pankow district, where local culture and history come alive.
Elisabeth-Schwarzhaupt-Platz 3
2.7 km
Experience the serene beauty of Elisabeth-Schwarzhaupt-Platz, a tranquil urban oasis in the heart of Berlin, perfect for relaxation and leisure.
Ernst-Thälmann-Denkmal
2.8 km
Explore the Ernst Thälmann Monument in Berlin's Prenzlauer Berg: a colossal statue, a symbol of socialist history, and a reminder of Germany's complex past within a vibrant urban park.
Rosa-Luxemburg-Platz 1
3.1 km
Experience the vibrant atmosphere of Rosa-Luxemburg-Platz, a cultural and historical hub in the heart of Berlin, surrounded by art and urban life.
Friedrichstraße 205
3.2 km
Discover the architectural beauty and cultural vibrancy of Friedrichstraße 205, a historic landmark in the heart of Berlin's Mitte district.
Memorial Günter Litfin
3.3 km
Explore the Memorial Günter Litfin in Berlin, a powerful tribute to freedom and the victims of the Berlin Wall's oppressive regime.
Unmissable attractions to see
Place of 9 November 1989
0.2 km
Discover the Place of 9 November 1989 in Berlin, a historic landmark symbolizing the fall of the Berlin Wall and the triumph of freedom.
Falkplatz
0.9 km
Discover the serene beauty of Falkplatz, a state park in Berlin that offers relaxation, community events, and vibrant local culture.
Gethsemanekirche - Ev. Kirchengemeinde Prenzlauer Berg-Nord
1.2 km
Discover the historic Gethsemanekirche in Berlin, an architectural marvel and a vibrant hub of culture, spirituality, and community.
Berlin Underworld
1.2 km
Uncover the secrets of Berlin's past at the captivating Berlin Underworld, a museum exploring the city's underground history and heritage.
Mauerpark
1.3 km
Experience the lively atmosphere of Mauerpark, Berlin's cultural hotspot, where history, art, and community come together in a vibrant green oasis.
Flakturm Humboldthain
1.5 km
Explore the Flakturm Humboldthain, a historical landmark in Berlin, offering insights into the city's past and stunning panoramic views.
The Berlin Wall and its Fall at Schwedter Strasse
1.6 km
Explore the Berlin Wall at Schwedter Strasse, an enduring symbol of hope and resilience, reflecting on the past and celebrating unity in modern Berlin.
Bibliothek am Luisenbad
1.6 km
Explore the Bibliothek am Luisenbad in Berlin, a cultural gem that unites history, literature, and community events within its tranquil spaces.
Humboldthain
1.6 km
Explore the lush landscapes and historical significance of Humboldthain Park, a serene oasis in the heart of Berlin perfect for relaxation and recreation.
Prater Beer Garden
1.7 km
Experience the heart of Berlin's beer culture at Prater Beer Garden – A lively destination filled with tradition, great brews, and delicious German fare.
Grenzstreifen Bernauer Straße
1.7 km
Discover the Grenzstreifen Bernauer Straße: A powerful memorial illustrating Berlin's history of division and the quest for freedom.
Museum at the Kulturbrauerei
1.7 km
Explore the captivating history of Berlin at the Museum at the Kulturbrauerei, where culture and heritage come alive in a unique setting.
Berlin on Bike - Radtouren & Fahrradverleih
1.7 km
Experience the rich culture and history of Berlin on two wheels with Berlin on Bike, offering guided tours and bike rentals for every adventurer.
Kesselhaus in der Kulturbrauerei
1.8 km
Experience the vibrant cultural pulse of Berlin at Kesselhaus in der Kulturbrauerei, a premier venue for live music and artistic events.
Lucia Weihnachtsmarkt in der Kulturbrauerei
1.9 km
Explore the enchanting Lucia Weihnachtsmarkt in Berlin, a festive hub of crafts, culinary delights, and holiday cheer in a historic brewery setting.
Essential places to dine
Holy Everest
0.8 km
Experience authentic Nepalese cuisine at Holy Everest in Berlin's Pankow district - where every dish tells a story!
Frau Mittenmang
1.2 km
Experience authentic German cuisine at Frau Mittenmang in Berlin's Pankow district—where tradition meets taste.
Zum Schusterjungen
1.7 km
Experience authentic German flavors at Zum Schusterjungen in Berlin's Pankow district - where tradition meets taste.
MaMi's Food&Wine
1.8 km
Discover culinary excellence at MaMi's Food&Wine in Berlin – where tradition meets innovation in every delicious bite.
Altberliner Restaurant
1.9 km
Discover Berlin's culinary heritage at Altberliner Restaurant - where authentic German flavors come alive.
Restaurant Bricole
2.0 km
Experience culinary excellence at Restaurant Bricole in Berlin - where modern European flavors meet French tradition in an elegant setting.
Mitho Cha! P-Berg
2.3 km
Discover authentic Nepalese flavors at Mitho Cha! P-Berg - where every dish tells a story.
KUSHMANN'S X NEON
2.4 km
Discover KUSHMANN'S X NEON: A culinary delight blending Mediterranean cuisine with an exciting cocktail bar in the heart of Berlin.
A-Petit Restaurant Berlin
2.4 km
Discover the flavors of Asia at A-Petit Restaurant in Berlin - a top destination for sushi lovers and Asian cuisine enthusiasts.
Masel Topf
2.5 km
Experience authentic Israeli flavors at Masel Topf in Berlin – where every dish tells a story.
Zur Haxe
2.5 km
Experience the heart of Bavaria in Berlin at Zur Haxe – indulge in authentic German dishes in a cozy setting.
Hackethal's
2.6 km
Discover Hackethal's: A German restaurant and pub in Berlin offering traditional cuisine in a cozy setting.
ernst
2.6 km
Experience culinary artistry at Ernst in Berlin—where German precision meets Japanese elegance in every exquisite dish.
Katz Orange
2.6 km
Discover Katz Orange: An eclectic fine dining experience in Berlin's Mitte district offering exquisite German cuisine and an inviting atmosphere.
PeterPaul
2.7 km
Discover contemporary German cuisine at PeterPaul in Berlin's Mitte district – where tradition meets innovation in every bite.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
DEAR
1.2 km
Discover unique vintage finds at DEAR, Berlin's charming secondhand store in Pankow, where sustainable fashion meets eclectic style.
Loretta
1.6 km
Explore Loretta, Berlin's ultimate vintage clothing store, for unique fashion finds and a delightful shopping experience.
Jyoti - FairWorks
1.7 km
Explore Jyoti - FairWorks in Berlin for ethically sourced clothing, unique accessories, and a commitment to fair trade fashion.
das goodshaus. Lifestyle Concept Store
1.7 km
Explore das goodshaus, a unique lifestyle concept store in Berlin, offering a delightful selection of gifts and artistic stationery.
Pauls Boutique/Berlin
1.8 km
Explore Paul’s Boutique in Berlin for unique vintage clothing and sustainable fashion treasures. A must-visit thrift store in the heart of Pankow.
wunderwerk store Berlin-Prenzlauer Berg
1.8 km
Explore sustainable fashion at Wunderwerk Store in Berlin-Prenzlauer Berg, where contemporary design meets eco-conscious shopping.
Flagshipstore
1.8 km
Explore Flagshipstore Berlin for a unique selection of eclectic European fashion in a vibrant shopping atmosphere.
Dudes Factory
1.9 km
Discover Dudes Factory, Berlin's iconic streetwear store, offering unique designs that embody the city's dynamic fashion scene.
ein000 - Eintausend Berlin Shopping Guide
2.3 km
Explore ein000 for a unique shopping experience, showcasing Berlin's contemporary fashion and local designs in the heart of the city.
vintage
2.5 km
Explore a vintage store in Berlin's Pankow district, filled with unique treasures and timeless charm that reflect the city's rich history.
KNAACKPUNKT Vintage & New Design Clothing
2.5 km
Explore KNAACKPUNKT Vintage & New Design Clothing in Berlin - a blend of vintage charm and modern fashion for every style enthusiast.
Rotation Boutique / Nachhaltige Mode / Schallplatten
2.7 km
Discover the intersection of sustainable fashion and music at Rotation Boutique in Berlin's Mitte district, where style meets eco-consciousness.
Soul Objects
2.7 km
Explore the artistic treasures of Berlin at Soul Objects, your go-to destination for unique gifts, art, and handcrafted treasures.
Fashionfouvintage
2.8 km
Explore Fashionfouvintage in Berlin for a unique vintage clothing experience, showcasing timeless styles from various eras that inspire and delight.
Pauls Chapter Mitte
2.9 km
Experience the charm of sustainable fashion at Pauls Chapter Mitte, Berlin's premier used clothing store, offering unique vintage finds in a stylish setting.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
DieBar
1.1 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife at DieBar in Berlin's Pankow district, where great drinks and a lively atmosphere await every visitor.
Badfish Bar
1.3 km
Discover the vibrant nightlife at Badfish Bar, a must-visit cocktail bar and pub in Berlin’s Pankow district, where great drinks and a lively atmosphere await.
Bar Becketts Kopf
1.4 km
Discover the art of cocktails at Bar Becketts Kopf, Berlin's intimate cocktail bar offering innovative drinks and a cozy atmosphere for your night out.
Zum Starken August
1.4 km
Immerse yourself in Berlin's vibrant nightlife at Zum Starken August, where circus magic meets a lively pub atmosphere for an unforgettable experience.
Zu mir oder zu dir
1.6 km
Discover 'Zu mir oder zu dir', a cozy bar in Pankow offering an extensive drink menu and a vibrant atmosphere perfect for enjoying Berlin's nightlife.
Höschen bar
1.8 km
Discover Höschen Bar in Pankow, Berlin - a vibrant cocktail bar known for its innovative drinks and cozy ambiance, perfect for a night out with friends.
Kaminbar
1.9 km
Discover the artistic charm of Kaminbar in Berlin, where cocktails meet creativity in a vibrant atmosphere filled with live music and local art.
Bräugier BrewPub
2.0 km
Discover the vibrant world of craft beer at Bräugier BrewPub, a top brewpub in Berlin's Prenzlauer Berg, offering unique brews and a lively atmosphere.
Bar Luxus
2.2 km
Discover the stylish ambiance and innovative cocktails at Bar Luxus, a must-visit nightlife destination in Berlin's Prenzlauer Allee.
Uluru Resort
2.3 km
Discover Uluru Resort, where Australian charm meets Berlin's vibrant pub culture, offering great drinks, lively events, and a warm welcome.
Bar 55
2.3 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife of Berlin at Bar 55, a cozy bar in Pankow offering a wide selection of drinks and a lively atmosphere.
The Dorothy Bar
2.4 km
Discover Berlin's vibrant nightlife at The Dorothy Bar, where innovative cocktails and a cozy atmosphere create the perfect evening escape.
BrewDog Berlin Mitte
2.5 km
Discover the vibrant atmosphere and diverse craft beer selection at BrewDog Berlin Mitte, where every sip tells a story.
Buck and Breck
2.5 km
Discover Buck and Breck, a stylish cocktail bar in Berlin's Mitte district, where expertly crafted drinks and a cozy atmosphere await.
100 Gramm Bar
2.7 km
Discover 100 Gramm Bar in Berlin, the ultimate cocktail destination blending stylish ambiance with unique mixology in the heart of the city.
