Art

The Mauerpark Flea Market is a place for Art, History and Community

Sunday is market day in Berlin. Or rather, it’s flea market day at Mauerpark. Located at Bernauer Strasse 63-64, close to the Berlin Wall Memorial, this huge green area fills up with stalls selling everything from hand-made clothes by trendy designers to all kinds of antiques you could imagine. There are books, vinyl records, toys, jewelry, military war clothing, old telephones, and all those fascinating oldies that we find in markets of this kind.

Mauerpark alone is worth a visit. The place was built in the so-called “Death Strip” of the Berlin Wall. In the past, that area was a no-man’s land – right between the two walls separating the Soviet side from the Western side. Anyone who stepped into that area was at risk of being shot. With such a tragic past, transforming the space into a place for socializing seems entirely appropriate, don’t you think?

Today, the area is frequented by Berlin’s alternative youth, no matter the day of the week. Not nearly as beautiful as the Tiergarten, Mauerpark captivates with its creative, modern, and transgressive aura. On Sundays, when it’s crowded, this atmosphere intensifies.

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Mauerpark Flea Market and Street Food Stalls

The market is enormous. Walking among the stalls is an exciting activity even for those who, like me, had no intention of buying anything but ended up leaving with cool T-shirts and a few vinyls.

The market is also a haven for collectors of antiques and quirky items. You might stumble upon old military memorabilia, rare coins, or even historical artifacts. Each stall offers something different, making the hunt for that perfect piece exciting. It’s a place where you can find a 100-year-old camera, a classic typewriter, or a set of Soviet-era postcards.

The food section is well-stocked with very Berliner options, like the famous bratwurst, kebab, and currywurst. Still, there are also representatives of the various nationalities that make Berlin such a multicultural city.

You might find yourself biting into a warm, fluffy naan bread filled with rich, spicy Indian curry one moment and enjoying a delicate, freshly-made crepe filled with Nutella and bananas the next.

Many of these vendors are small, independent operators who take great pride in their offerings. They use fresh, locally sourced ingredients to create dishes that are not only delicious but also tell a story of their heritage and culinary traditions.

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Mauerpark’s Sunday Karaoke

Think that’s all? People gather in the arena near the stalls from 3 PM for a super karaoke session, also on Sundays. This tradition started modestly when a crazy Irishman brought a microphone and a speaker to the park to see who was up for singing.

The idea caught on with the regulars, and today, a crowd gathers to watch the “amateur show.” The singing only stops when the cold starts to hit, usually around the end of October. Anyone can get up on stage and perform. No one cares about being in tune or the quality of the singer. People are there for fun.

It’s a good idea to arrive a bit earlier. This way, you can snag a good spot. The seating is on the steps and grassy areas – so bringing a blanket or a portable chair might be a smart move for added comfort.

Tips for the Flea Market

  • Arrive Early: The market can get crowded, so arriving early gives you a chance to browse more comfortably.
  • Bring Cash: Many vendors don’t accept card payments, so having cash is wise.
  • Wear Comfortable Shoes: You’ll be doing a lot of walking, so comfortable footwear is a must.
  • Join a Guided Tour: Prenzlauer Berg, the neighborhood around Mauerpark, is a vibrant and interesting place with a lot to see! Experience the unique blend of history, culture, and street life in one of the city’s most iconic neighborhoods with a local guide. Book your tour now!

Explore the city with the Berlin Welcome Card

The Berlin Welcome Card is your budget-friendly buddy, offering a treasure trove of discounts at over 200 attractions. Museums, galleries, tours, and even some restaurants. Learn more!

This is your all-access pass to the city’s endless attractions, tailored to your travel needs and packed with perks.

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Discounts and Deals: The card is a treasure chest of savings, offering discounts at over 200 attractions, including museums, tours, and select restaurants. This means more experiences for less!

Pricing: The cost of the Berlin Welcome Card varies based on duration and coverage area:

  • 48-hour AB Zone: €23 (ideal for central Berlin).
  • 48-hour ABC Zone: €28 (includes travel to Potsdam and Berlin Schönefeld Airport).
  • Prices increase incrementally for the 72-hour and 4-6 day options.

Additional Perks: Some Berlin Welcome Card variants include special additions like free entry to the Berlin TV Tower or a city river cruise.

Family-Friendly: Traveling with family? The card covers children up to a certain age for free, making it a great option for family trips.

Free Guidebook: Each card comes with a guidebook brimming with insider tips and information to help you uncover Berlin’s hidden gems.

Natália Becattini

Editor of Yes, Summer! I am a Brazilian journalist, writer, and digital nomad. I have been traveling the world, telling stories, and tasting local beers since 2010. I am the co-founder of 360meridianos, a reference in travel writing in Brazil, and author of the newsletter Migraciones. On social media, I'm always reachable at @natybecattini.

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