MODERN SHOPPING HEAVEN: BIKINI BERLIN

There are shopping malls that give you the chills. They have bad lighting, bad food, absolutely no soul and will bore you to death. And then there are unique concept malls like the BIKINI BERLIN that will make you feel pretty excited. A modern shopping oasis, in the middle of West Berlin, so good that you would instantly recommend it to your best friend. So when your fellow Berliners tell you that you could actually spend a whole day at Bikini Berlin without getting bored or tired, it’s time for a personal investigation:

10:38 AM
After a decent delay (Air Berlin, you know) and 2 pomegranate ice teas, I arrive at the legendary building complex at Berlin’s Zoo. The centerpiece is of course the BIKINIHAUS (aka shopping heaven) but the Bikini Berlin also includes a cinema, a high-rise building and the 25hours Hotel (which I love by the way). I’ve already got the feeling that this is going to be a fun day…

11.00 AM
But first, coffee. Before I’m hitting one of the over 50 stores I’m fueling up at the newly opened SPREEGOLD. Salad Bowls, Eggs Benedict & Coconut Latte – I think I’m in breakfast heaven… Memo: Buy more prints for your own art wall!

12.10 PM
Let the games begin. Right outside the Bikinihaus, across the NYC Highline inspired outdoor area (great picnic spot, just saying!) you’ll find two shopping gems: 1. the SUPER concept space, where you not only can shop till you drop but also have a coffee, overlooking the Berlin Zoo. 2. PREMIATA, probably the best shoe store I’ve seen in a long time. You’ll find unique sneakers (see-through, woven, denim – just to name a few styles) and the most gorgeous Flats and Mules. Shoe addicts are welcome.

12.55 PM
I’m entering the main mall, where 45 carefully curated shops & cafés + over 14 pop-up boxes are waiting to be discovered. The mix between mint green steel (a reference to Berlins bridges), glass & wood instantly makes my architectural fangirl heart skip a beat.

13.02 PM
Those POP UP SHOPS are so good and their concept is brilliant: designers and brands who might not have an actual shop, can rent a pop-up box for a period of time and sell their products. You’ll find summery espadrilles, seaweed delicacies or adorable stationary. As the shops are constantly changing you’ll always discover something new. 100 shopping points for this idea.

14.00 PM
„Let’s have a look at the PAPER POSITIONS exhibit!“ To be honest, I was surprised to find one of the best paper artwork exhibitions just in a shopping mall. BUT I guess this fact makes Bikini Berlin a modern Disneyland for smart adults, right? A place where you not only can shop till ya drop but also get some fresh inspirations. Definitely have to come back in Winter, when artists are creating the Bikini Berlin wrapping paper.

15.37 PM
After a quick art & coffee break I’m back at the shopping game. First up: LNFA. This curated store is ranked by Vogue Paris as one of the world’s top 10 fashion concept stores. You’ll find clothes, jewellery and accessories by young fashion designers and artist. Worth a visit! Next was STUDIO 183, which has a similar concept. Young brands get to present/sell their amazing work in a fashion-forward atmosphere.
More shopping favorites: Samsoe & Samsoe, Artek, Bam Berlin, Mykita, Closed and Kusmi Tea

17.12 PM
Getting pampered at FRESH NAILS. Mani & Pedi for the long weekend ahead? Check!

18.30 PM
Dinner time at NENI, a rooftop restaurant at the 25hours hotel, founded by the Vienna-based (yeah!) Molcho family. I’m already familiar with their restaurants in Austria and love the Persian, Arabian, Morrcan and Israeli influences. You should definitely try the Best of Neni – where you get to try a bit of everything while you overlook Berlin and the peaceful Zoo.

21.25 PM
It ain’t over till it’s over. After-shopping (or afterwork, if you will) drinks at the MONKEY BAR.

23.48 PM
Sleepy Eyes. If you’re one lucky girl, staying at the 25HOURS HOTEL, you are just one elevator ride away from your comfy bed. Good night, Berlin!

And yes, they were right: I’ve spend a whole day at Bikini Berlin and loved every single hour. Definitely not an ordinary shopping destination and therefore a must-visit on every Berlin trip. Have fun!

In Collaboration with Bikini Berlin