Kurfürstendamm (Ku'damm)

The Basics

The best way to explore Kurfürstendamm is by foot. On a guided walking tour, travelers can visit the best spots along the street, stop and browse through shops, admire the historic buildings, and enjoy coffee at the legendary Romanisches Café. Berlin city tours often include a drive along Kurfürstendamm, while Berlin hop-on hop-off bus tours stop at multiple attractions along the street, including the Kaiser Wilhelm Memorial Church and Berlin Zoo, en-route to nearby sights such as Tiergarten Park and Charlottenburg Palace.

Things to Know Before You Go

• Kurfürstendamm is a must-see for avid shoppers and culture lovers.

• Free Wi-Fi hotspots are located along the shopping street.

How to Get There

Kurfürstendamm is roughly two miles (3.5 kilometers) long and runs from Grunewald’s Rathenauplatz square in the west, to Charlottenburg’s Breitscheidplatz square in the east. At the eastern end of the street, the closest U-Bahn (metro) stations are Zoo and Kurfürstendamm.

When to Get There

Kurfürstendamm is one of Berlin’s busiest streets and is a lively destination at all hours of the day and night. Shoppers should head there from Monday through Saturday and opt for an early start to avoid crowds, while those who want to enjoy Kurfürstendamm’s nightlife should arrive in the evening hours to visit bars, theaters, and nightclubs. The holiday season is a particularly picturesque time to visit, when the street hosts some of Berlin’s most impressive festive illuminations.

Shopping along Kurfürstendamm

Berlin’s famous KaDeWe department store and the huge Europacenter mall are a must-see for shoppers, located a short walk from Breitscheidplatz near the remains of the Kaiser Wilhelm Memorial Church. Continuing west along Kurfürstendamm, you’ll find everything from discount souvenir stalls to high-street favorites and flagship designer stores including Yves Saint Laurent, Chanel, and Louis Vuitton. Side streets such as Fasanenstraße, Knesebeckstraße, and Bleibtreustraße are also lined with designer boutiques.

What is Kurfürstendamm famous for?

Kurfürstendamm (known by locals as Ku'damm) is famous for being a buzzing shopping street in West Berlin. Renowned for its tree-lined boulevard, this entertainment hub is filled with high-end boutiques, luxury department stores, and fantastic cafés and restaurants. It also attracts visitors who are keen to admire its historic architecture.

How can I get to Kurfürstendamm using public transport?

The best way to get to Kurfürstendamm by public transport is to travel by U-Bahn. The nearest stations are Zoologischer Garten or Kurfürstendamm, and you can get the U1, U2, or U9 lines. Alternatively, there are multiple bus stops along the Kurfürstendamm, including the Kurfürstendamm stop served by buses 204 and 249.

Are there any historical landmarks in Kurfürstendamm?

Yes, there are several historical landmarks in Kurfürstendamm. One of the most famous landmarks is the Kaiser Wilhelm Memorial Church, which was badly damaged during World War II. The ruins were converted into a war memorial and the church is now a symbol of the city’s post-war peace and recovery.

What are the best shopping options along Kurfürstendamm?

With lots of variety under one roof, the KaDeWe department store offers a huge range of high-end international fashion boutiques and local designers. Another popular spot is the Europa Center, one of Berlin’s oldest shopping malls, with 70 shops to browse and enjoy.

Can you recommend any cafes or restaurants on Kurfürstendamm?

There is a diverse range of cafes and restaurants in Kurfürstendamm. For cakes and coffee, Einstein Kaffee offers a cozy spot to relax. Restaurant El Dorado offers tapas and steak, and Bier’s Kudamm 195 is a great pick for quick snacks such as the local specialty of currywurst.

What are the top hotels near Kurfürstendamm?

There are plenty of hotels to choose from if you want to stay close to Kurfürstendamm. If you’re looking for luxurious options, the Waldorf Astoria and the Hotel Bristol Berlin are popular picks. Alternatively, Hotel Zoo and Hotel Louisa’s Place are perfect for travelers after a stylish boutique getaway.