There is almost nothing that Berlin doesn’t have. The capital city is home to many more cultures than just German, which is reflected in its many culinary influences – from Markthalle Neun in Kreuzberg to the best Mexican restaurants. One place where this is particularly evident is the Dong Xuan Center. This market hall feels like a long-distance trip all year round, without the need for a plane ticket. On Herzbergstraße in Lichtenberg, there is a vibrant piece of Vietnam that goes far beyond an ordinary market.
Why the Dong Xuan Center is a must-see
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What makes the center so extraordinary? It is not a tourist attraction, but a lively, authentic microcosm. As soon as you pass through the yellow gateposts, the city changes and you are transported to the world of Far Eastern markets – with all their smells and sounds. The charm of old GDR industrial halls – the site was once the headquarters of VEB Elektrokohle – meets the lively energy of an Asian bazaar.
The Dong Xuan Center, which incidentally means “spring meadow” in Vietnamese, has a total of six huge halls. This makes it Europe’s largest Asian market! Over 400 retailers offer their goods. From food and textiles to professional service providers such as tax consultants and travel agencies, everything is available. Whether you’re looking for a new hairstyle, a large bag of rice, or the best pho in town, you’ll find everything Asia exports at Dong Xuan . The entire range is listed on the website.
Tips for visiting
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If you’re visiting Dong Xuan Center for the first time, take your time and just go with the flow. The halls are numbered randomly, which only awakens your spirit of discovery even more. Bring cash, because most stores don’t accept cards. Many Berliners come here just to eat. The restaurants in the center are considered the most authentic in the city: the food here is cooked just as you would expect in the food stalls of Hanoi.
The center is open almost every day from 10:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. – only Tuesday is a day of rest. Trams M8, 18, and 21 stop right in front of the main entrance. And by the way: since January 2026 , the tram stop has officially been named “Dong Xuan.” This honor is not usually bestowed upon commercial establishments. This makes it all the more significant as a sign of recognition for the Vietnamese community in Berlin.