Freiluftkino Kreuzberg

Hidden in the courtyard of the Kunstquartier Bethanien on Mariannenplatz in Kreuzberg is Berlin's oldest and only OmU (Original Version with Subtitles) open-air cinema. If you want to see international arthouse gems, cult classics, and current cinema highlights under the open sky, this is the place to be. A deckchair, a woolen blanket, and a beer: summer cinema doesn't get much better than this.

An Open-Air Cinema in Berlin with True Cinematic Ambition

Freiluftkino Kreuzberg is no ordinary open-air cinema. For over 30 years, it has attracted film lovers to the backyard of the Kunstquartier Bethanien on Mariannenplatz. As the only OmU (Original Version with Subtitles) open-air cinema in Berlin, it shows all films exclusively in their original version with subtitles. German-language productions are accordingly shown with English subtitles, attracting an international audience. The program changes daily: a different film is shown every evening. The selection ranges from arthouse and independent cinema to cult classics of world cinema and strong mainstream titles of the current cinema season. Blockbusters meet slow cinema and European auteur cinema here. This is an open-air cinema in Berlin that truly offers something for everyone, without watering down the program. Instead of fixed rows of cinema seats, you rent deckchairs, which you set up yourself in front of the screen. If you get cold on cooler evenings, you can simply rent a blanket. The kiosk offers beer, soft drinks, tea, coffee, and snacks at fair prices. Dogs are allowed on a leash. Tickets are available at the box office or conveniently online in advance, which we recommend, as screenings often sell out quickly in good weather.

Location and Surroundings: Kreuzberg at its best

Freiluftkino Kreuzberg is located not far from Kottbusser Tor underground station, one of the district’s liveliest hubs. Those who arrive early can explore Mariannenplatz itself, where barbecue evenings and markets often take place in summer. The Kunstquartier Bethanien also regularly hosts exhibitions of contemporary art, which make a good pre-program. For dinner beforehand, the numerous Turkish and Arabic restaurants along Adalbertstraße or Oranienstraße, both within walking distance, are recommended. If you want a more relaxed dining experience, the restaurant “3 Schwestern” directly in Bethanien is a good option. Along the Landwehrkanal, only a few minutes away, you can also take a leisurely stroll before heading to the cinema under the open Berlin sky.