Why thrift shopping in Berlin is more than just shopping

Berlin is a city where you never know what awaits you around the next corner: a street musician with an accordion, a hidden café serving grandma’s apple pie—or a thrift shop full of treasures that tell stories. For many travelers staying at EastSeven Hostel Berlin, that’s exactly the appeal: a look that’s not off the rack, but carries memories of wild 90s parties, old festivals, or Berlin neighborhood nights. Maybe you know the problem: your backpack is full, your budget is rather tight – but you still don’t want to end up in the same fast fashion stores as at home. That’s exactly what Berlin is made for. Every second-hand shop is a little adventure: cheap, sustainable and, above all, full of unique finds that will make your trip even more unforgettable. And the best part? Many of the coolest secondhand stores are within easy walking distance or a short subway ride from EastSeven Hostel Berlin. If you need more inspiration, be sure to check out our tips for cool museums in Berlin – perfect for combining culture and shopping.

1. Humana at Frankfurter Tor – the legendary thrift store among second-hand shops

When you think of Berlin thrift stores, Humana automatically comes to mind. The huge store at Frankfurter Tor in particular is a classic. Here, you feel like you’re entering a Berlin vintage store that almost looks like a department store.

• Huge selection: four floors full of clothing, accessories, and surprises.
• For every budget: from basics for a few euros to designer pieces
• An experience in itself: each floor has its own character and vibe.

Humana is a good starting point for anyone visiting Berlin for the first time and wanting to dive right into the thrift scene. Even if you don’t actually want to buy anything, it’s worth a visit because the store almost feels like a museum of fashion from past decades. Many travelers say that they found their personal Berlin souvenir here – something that will remind them of their trip later on. Bildquelle: https://www.facebook.com/photo.php?fbid=1341411217938142&set=pb.100062078300749.-2207520000&type=3  

2. Vintage treasures in Prenzlauer Berg – close to EastSeven Hostel

Don’t want to travel across town? No problem. In Prenzlauer Berg, there are several small Berlin vintage stores that are real gems. From EastSeven Hostel, you can walk there in just a few minutes.

• Authentic and hand-picked: lots of unique items with history.
• Easy to reach: perfect for a quick detour from the hostel.
• Pleasant atmosphere: small shops, cozy and local.

The atmosphere in Prenzlauer Berg is relaxed. Many shops play music, are individually decorated, and feel like small living rooms. That’s what makes these secondhand shops so special: each store has its own history and its own audience. If you’re interested in fashion, you’ll find exciting conversations with the owners, who are often passionate collectors themselves.

3. Colours in Kreuzberg – Fashion by the kilo at Thrift Shop Berlin

Colours is probably one of the most exciting stores in Berlin when it comes to its concept: you don’t pay per item, but by weight.

• Fun to browse: large rummage tables with endless surprises.
• Affordable prices: light fabrics cost almost nothing, heavier pieces a little more.
• Kreuzberg flair: colorful, lively, and international – shopping with an entertainment factor.

This isn’t about searching by size or brand. Instead, it’s a real adventure where you rummage through huge piles of used clothing. That’s exactly what makes it so appealing: you never know whether you’ll end up taking home just a cool T-shirt or a complete outfit. Colours is a particular highlight for backpackers on a tight budget, because here you can put together a whole new “Berlin outfit” from second-hand pieces for just a few euros.

4. Garage in Schöneberg – Iconic secondhand store with a new flair

Garage is a real institution that has helped shape Berlin’s thrift shopping scene since the 1980s. After a long closure, the store was taken over in August 2025 by the well-known vintage kilo store chain PicknWeight and reopened as “Garage by PicknWeight.”

• Iconic range: leather jackets, army wear, and sturdy classics.
• A store with history: many Berliners still rave about their first finds here, and now the store combines the subculture of the old days with PicknWeight’s sustainable, modern vintage concept.
• Authentic: an honest store that takes you back to old Berlin.

The Garage is different from many trendy shops in the city center. Here, it’s less about Instagram-worthy presentation and more about subculture and character. If you can imagine how punks and rock fans shopped in Berlin in the 80s, then the Garage is exactly the right place to relive that feeling. A visit shows that vintage fashion in Berlin is not just a trend, but a tradition deeply rooted in the city. Bildquelle: https://www.facebook.com/GarageBerlinVintage/photos/pb.100063262775835.-2207520000/3667043759995636/?type=3&locale=de_DE  

5. Made in Berlin – Hipster hotspot at Hackescher Markt

Made in Berlin is located right in the center – perfect if you want to combine sightseeing with shopping.

• Central location: close to Hackescher Markt and Alexanderplatz.
• Stylish ambience: modern interior, international clientele.
• Trendy selection: from unusual outfits to everyday looks.

Made in Berlin is one of those stores that scores points not only for its fashion but also for its atmosphere. As soon as you enter, you’ll notice the colorful mix of travelers, locals, and fashion fans. Many items are put together in such a way that you can find a complete outfit right away. Even if the prices are a little higher, it’s worth a detour, especially since you can easily combine your visit with a tour of the Hackesche Höfe. That way, you can get shopping and sightseeing done in one go. If you want to combine your shopping trip with a romantic evening, we’ve put together the best date ideas in Berlin for you.

6. Paul’s Boutique – Punk, Retro & Rarities

Paul’s Boutique in Prenzlauer Berg is a real insider tip.

• Rarities from several decades: from old band shirts to designer pieces-
• Colorful and chaotic: just as you sometimes imagine Berlin to be.
• Perfect for treasure hunters: with a little patience, you’ll find some real highlights here.

The special thing about Paul’s Boutique is that it feels a bit like an adventure. The shelves are crammed, sometimes chaotic, but that’s exactly what makes it so appealing. You have to be prepared to invest time and rummage through everything. Many travelers say that they found their favorite piece here completely unexpectedly. This store is not for people who value order, but that’s exactly what makes it so unique.

Bildquelle: https://www.paulsboutiqueberlin.de/index.html

7. PicknWeight – Berlin’s best-known kilo store chain

PicknWeight has become almost a lifestyle.

• Huge selection: from basics to haute couture.
• High-quality items: significantly more expensive than at Colours in Kreuzberg, but very good quality.
• Popular with travelers: the shops are colorful, stylish, and super photogenic.

The stores are known for their well-thought-out presentation. Unlike Colours, everything here is sorted and clearly arranged, so even shopping novices can quickly find what they are looking for. For many visitors, PicknWeight is a must-see because it offers exactly the mix of fun, quality, and experience you would expect from a modern vintage shop. It’s also worth taking photos—the colorful clothes racks are a popular motif. Bildquelle: https://www.facebook.com/photo/?fbid=570361375193178&set=a.570361338526515  

8. Mauerpark Flea Market – not a shop, but a must-see

The Mauerpark Flea Market may not be a classic second-hand shop, but it’s as much a part of the Berlin scene as currywurst and Späti.

• Pure diversity: old cameras, furniture, clothing, and records.
• Cult experience: often karaoke in the park, street food, and live music included.
• A meeting place for everyone: from locals to international travelers.

A Sunday in Mauerpark is an experience that goes far beyond shopping. People from all over the world meet here to listen to music together, discover secondhand treasures, and soak up the authentic Berlin lifestyle. Even if you leave empty-handed, you’ll have gathered a wealth of impressions. And if you love flea markets, don’t miss our article on Berlin’s vintage flea market, where you’ll find more insider tips for real treasure hunters. [(C) (c) Ekko von Schwichow, Joachim-Friedrich-Strasse 33, 10711 Berlin, Tel./Fax:+49(0)30/89 09 42 -98/99, mobil 0179699 46 45, mail@ schwichow.de, http://www.schwichow.de; (Bank Details/Bankverbindung) BLZ 100 100 10, (Account/ Konto-Nr.) Postbank:1986-47-109; IBAN: DE45 1001 0010 0198 6471 09, BIC: PBNKDEFF; (tax number/Steuernr.) 1124/529/61838 (tax office/Finanzamt) Berlin-Wilmersdorf; All rights reserved by Ekko von Schwichow .NO Model release. Contact me for any usage except editorial, Usage only with attached credit line (C) (c) Ekko von Schwichow/schwichow.de, voucher copy, fee and strictly under my terms and conditions. Nutzung nur gegen Honorar mit Urhebervermerk (C) (c) Ekko von Schwichow/schwichow.de, Belegexemplar und ausschliesslich zu meinen Liefer- und Veroffentlichungsbedingungen. Nutzung au?erhalb journalistischer Berichterstattung nur nach schriftlicher Vereinbarung. Weitergabe nur mit Genehmigung. Wenn nicht anders vereinbart, gelten die Honorare der Mittelstandsgemeinschaft Foto-Marketing/MFM -www.bvpa.org. ]

Practical tips for thrift shopping in Berlin

To make sure your shopping day goes smoothly:

• Best times: During the week for peace and quiet, Sundays for flea markets.
• Budget: Bring cash—not every secondhand shop accepts cards.
• Sustainability: Thrift shopping is a statement for the environment and against fast fashion.
• Insider tip: Neighborhood walks around Alexanderplatz or Prenzlauer Berg make the day complete.
• Events: Many stores offer occasional events where you can not only shop, but also enjoy coffee, cake, and snacks. It’s worth keeping an eye out for these events, as they often create a special atmosphere and make your visit even more enjoyable.
• Designers & brands: In some shops, you’ll find selected designer pieces and vintage clothing from well-known brands, including classics such as denim jackets, knit sweaters, and shirts.
• Online shops: Some Berlin vintage stores, such as Garments Vintage, also offer an online shop where you can browse from the comfort of your own home.

Conclusion: Your Berlin vintage adventure awaits

Berlin is a paradise for anyone who loves fashion but doesn’t want to be mainstream. Whether you’re looking for the best thrift shop in Berlin, a relaxed Berlin vintage store, or a colorful flea market, you’ll find it all here. For backpackers and travelers, this means:

• Unique finds with history.
• Fair prices that fit your travel budget.
• Local flair that lets you feel Berlin.

And best of all, many of these places are easily accessible from EastSeven Hostel—perfect for starting your shopping day in a relaxed manner. Pack your bags! a bag, put on some comfortable shoes, and discover why Berlin is rightly considered the capital of vintage fashion and sustainable shopping.