Make their way through the narrow alleyways, but it remains a charmingĪnd unique site. The area is becoming increasingly commercial, and tour groups frequently The surrounding streets of Weinmeisterstrasse, Alte Schoenhauser Strasse and Rosenthaler Strasse provide further retail therapy. Colorful tile work stretches upwards, while below there are one-off shops, bio (organic) ice cream stands, and theaters. Start at Hackesche Hoefe, an ensemble of historic courtyards, the largest enclosed courtyard area in Germany. Lively Hackescher Markt is an area brimming with cafes, chic shops, and art galleries. Sometimes surrounding a quiet residential courtyard with bikes, dumpsters, and children's play gear, other hofs (courtyards) are a window into Berliner's busy social lives. Berlin building’s straight-laced facades often hide the vibrant mini-centers of the city.
