Graefekiez in Kreuzberg: Rising prices in the micro-location by the Landwehr Canal

Between Kottbusser Damm and Urbanstrasse, along the Landwehr Canal (Landwehrkanal), lies the Graefekiez. Small shops, cafes, and restaurants have been opening here one after another in recent years. Graefestrasse has become something of a miniature promenade.

From insider tip to sought-after neighbourhood

Back in the 1990s, Graefe-, Dieffenbach-, and Grimmstrasse were already known among those looking for the quieter side of Kreuzberg. At the time, the neighbourhood was a peripheral location with little gastronomy. That changed after 2000. What was once a pure rental neighbourhood became a place where buyers also search for apartments.

According to the Senate Department for Urban Development (Senatsverwaltung für Stadtentwicklung), the neighbourhood had around 18,100 residents at the end of 2008. About a third are foreign nationals. For every 100 residents, there are 5.9 children and 15.5 young people under 18.

Price development

Low turnover and the compact size of the micro-location are pushing prices up. Purchase and rental prices here are rising faster than in other parts of Kreuzberg. The proximity to Neukoelln with its lower entry prices makes the contrast more visible.

What defines the neighbourhood

Period buildings (Altbau), mostly traffic-calmed streets, the Landwehr Canal, and plenty of greenery in summer give the area an almost village-like atmosphere. Nice bars, a child-friendly environment.

But there are downsides too. Many corners look unkempt. Street cleaning cannot keep up with the litter, partly caused by the many takeaway shops and the carelessness of some residents. In summer, locals complain about noise. The neighbourhood has made it into travel guides and blogs, and the party crowd comes with it. Anyone hoping to sleep with the window open in July will need patience.