In February 2026, Berlin’s most famous cinema of the 1960s will celebrate its reopening: one of the most significant buildings of GDR modernism, together with two cafés, will become the most exciting new ensemble in the city!

We hear about new openings and growth in all areas of the capital every day – the great thing is that Berlin really has something for everyone. Art lovers, for example, can look forward to the grand opening of a 2,000 m² cultural space around Valentine’s Day, featuring works by over 30 artists, DJ sets, and more.Exciting exhibitions of various genres come and go in Berlin – but today we want to tell you about a new opening that is here to stay: Kino International on the former boulevard will finally reopen its doors in February 2026 after 1.5 years of renovation work. Together with Café Moskau and the legendary Mokka-Milch-Eisbar, which are also reopening in the spring, Kino International forms an ensemble that is likely to become the city’s new place to be for many. Watching movies, drinking coffee, enjoying something sweet – what could be better?

This is none other than the legendary cinema on Karl-Marx-Allee in Berlin-Mitte, considered one of the most important architectural icons of GDR modernism. It opened on November 15, 1963, as the official premiere cinema of the GDR. It is known for its striking glass façade, spacious main auditorium, and Panorama Bar with a view over Karl-Marx-Allee. From 1963 to 1989, the Kino International was the most important premiere cinema and cultural center of the GDR film landscape. Today, it belongs to the Yorck cinema group and is one of the most significant locations in Berlin’s film and cultural history.

In May 2024 , the cinema was closed for a comprehensive renovation in line with historic preservation guidelines. The work, which lasted around 18 months, modernized both the technical equipment and the design elements of the building. Historic furniture and original architectural details were professionally restored and reintegrated into the overall concept.

Photo: Getty Images

The official reopening of the renovated Kino International will take place on February 26, 2026, immediately following the Berlinale (Berlin International Film Festival). There will also be an exclusive pre-opening screening of “Marty Supreme” on February 23, 2026 . Particularly pleasing is the fact that the cinema is opening two months earlier than originally planned, as the renovation work was completed faster than expected.

And it gets even better: Kino International’s sister venue, Café Moskau, will also reopen in spring 2026. Both buildings were designed and constructed in the 1960s as part of the same socialist axis of splendor. The “Mokka-Milch-Eisbar,” also an icon of this era, faced the question of whether a reopening would be economically viable for a long time. Now it’s clear: soon we can look forward to three new openings along Karl-Marx-Allee!