Hackesche Höfe is a chain of eight connected courtyards in Berlin’s Mitte district, entered through an arched passage at Rosenthaler Straße 40. The Art Nouveau complex brings together independent shops, cafés, restaurants, galleries, a theater and a cinema. Look up at the decorated façades, then wander through the different courtyards, each with its own feel. Nearby, a narrow alley beside Café Cinema adds street art and small cultural stops. Go early for a quieter walk, or leave time to browse and pause for coffee.
Eight courtyards in Mitte
Hackesche Höfe sits between Rosenthaler Straße and Sophienstraße, close to Hackescher Markt. Its eight courtyards are linked through a large building complex, with an arched entrance at Rosenthaler Straße 40. The courtyards connect shops and places to eat with cultural venues, creating a route that is easy to explore on foot.
The complex was conceived around the turn of the 20th century by architect August Endel. Its Art Nouveau design is unusual among Berlin’s older buildings, and the façade is decorated with glazed, multicoloured bricks. The courtyards opened in 1906. After a period of neglect following the Second World War, the complex was refurbished in the 1990s.
Architecture, shops and courtyards
Walk through the courtyards at an unhurried pace and notice how their layouts and atmospheres change. The buildings house boutiques, galleries, restaurants, cafés, a theater and a cinema. The shops include independent businesses, designer clothing and locally made goods, so browsing is part of the visit even if you are not shopping for anything in particular.
Some courtyards are quieter and include residential areas. The entertainment venues are concentrated closer to the entrance, while the further courtyards have a more subdued character. This mix of commercial and residential spaces gives the complex the feel of a small neighbourhood. Treat the quieter areas with consideration as you pass through.
Street art and nearby stops
For a change of pace, step into the small alley beside Café Cinema at Rosenthaler Straße 39. Street art covers parts of the passage, and the route leads past a small theater and Neurotitan, a shop carrying books and prints by local artists and illustrators. The Anne Frank Center is also in the area and focuses on the neighbourhood’s Jewish heritage.
You can combine the courtyard walk with a coffee, meal or film. The cinema shows independent films and selected titles in their original language. If you want to see several courtyards, browse shops and stop to eat, allow more than a quick pass through; an early start gives you a quieter look around.
Häufige Fragen
How many courtyards are at Hackesche Höfe?
The complex has eight interconnected courtyards in Berlin’s Mitte district.
Where is the entrance to Hackesche Höfe?
The main arched entrance is at Rosenthaler Straße 40, near Hackescher Markt.
What is there to see at Hackesche Höfe?
You can explore the Art Nouveau courtyards, browse shops and galleries, visit cafés and cultural venues, and look for street art in the nearby alley beside Café Cinema.
When is a good time to visit Hackesche Höfe?
Go early in the morning for a quieter walk through the courtyards.
