Major Renovation Forces Alexanderplatz Station Shops to Close
Berlin-Mitte, January 23, 2026 – All shops and eateries located on the ground floor of Alexanderplatz Station are mandated to close by the end of the year in preparation for an extensive renovation of the main concourse. The construction work is slated to begin in mid-2026 and is expected to conclude by mid-2029, as reported by the Berliner Zeitung.
Renovation Details and Timeline
Michael Klein, spokesperson for Deutsche Bahn in Berlin and Brandenburg, confirmed to RBB that the renovation project will commence in mid-2026, with the station anticipated to reopen in mid-2029. While businesses will cease operations, train services, including S-Bahn lines, are expected to run as usual throughout the renovation period.
To ensure continued passenger services, a temporary service point, including a bakery and ticket counter, will be established near the TV Tower. This measure aims to mitigate inconvenience for commuters and travelers during the three-year construction phase.
Impact on Businesses and Employees
The impending closures present a significant challenge for shop owners and their employees. Some business owners, like Jörg Salla, who operates 1A Foto at Alexanderplatz Station, are exploring options to relocate to other Berlin stations. Salla expressed hope of opening a new store at Friedrichstraße Station.
Employees at the Röwer flower shop, according to the Berliner Zeitung, are optimistic about securing positions in other branches of their chain. They view the renovation positively, acknowledging the station’s current state of disrepair.
Project Scope and Costs
The primary reason for the renovation is to enhance fire safety, particularly in the ground and basement levels of the building. Klein elaborated that the project includes the installation of new air conditioning systems, heating systems, and electrical systems. The total cost of the renovation is estimated at 70 million euros.
The extensive overhaul will also involve the modernization of eight escalators, the lighting systems, and two elevators. Despite the significant internal changes, the exterior of the station, a protected monument since its opening in 1882, will largely retain its historical appearance.
Alexanderplatz: A Busy Hub
Alexanderplatz Station is one of Germany’s 20 busiest railway stations, serving approximately 152,000 passengers daily in 2019. The renovation aims to improve the station’s infrastructure and safety standards to accommodate its high traffic volume.
Ongoing Developments in Alexanderplatz Area
Beyond the station, the Alexanderplatz area is undergoing substantial transformation. A new skyscraper is currently under construction next to the Galeria department store, which is expected to obstruct the popular photographic view of the TV Tower, much to the dismay of tourists.
