Classic Open Air am Gendarmenmarkt

A Summer Ritual in the Heart of Berlin

When the Gendarmenmarkt becomes an open-air stage in July, the center of Berlin transforms completely for a few days. The square, which many consider one of Europe's most beautiful, is closed off for a good week, with a stage and grandstands set up in front of the Konzerthaus. In the evenings, the plaza fills with several thousand spectators. Classic Open Air has been held since 1992, making it one of Germany's oldest classical open-air formats and the only one of its scale in the Mitte district.

The Idea: Classical Meets Pop, Jazz, and Crossover

The concept is deliberately not purist. One evening, Joana Mallwitz conducts the Konzerthausorchester Berlin with Gershwin and Weill; the next, David Garrett plays his symphonic variations on songs by Taylor Swift, Rihanna, or Ed Sheeran. In between, artists like Gregory Porter, Anna Netrebko, Giovanni Zarrella, or the synth-pop veterans Alphaville perform in orchestral arrangements. This very mix is the hallmark: high-quality classical music, but accessible enough for an audience that doesn't attend the Philharmonie every week.

The Location Makes the Difference

Framed by the German Dome, the French Dome, and the Konzerthaus Berlin (designed by Karl Friedrich Schinkel), the Gendarmenmarkt offers a backdrop that bathes in golden light in the evenings. The acoustics of the enclosed square work surprisingly well for orchestral ensembles, the sightlines are clear, and after the concerts, you can reach the bars on Bebelplatz or Friedrichstraße in two minutes.

Berlin-Mitte and the Neighborhood

The Gendarmenmarkt is located in the Mitte district of the eponymous borough, a five-minute walk from the Brandenburg Gate and three minutes from the French Dome. For Berliners and visitors alike, the festival traditionally provides an occasion to stay in Mitte. The surrounding hotels like the Hilton, Regent, or Sofitel have been preparing for the classical nights for years. Tip: enjoy an aperitivo at one of the Italian restaurants on Charlottenstraße before the concert, then take a leisurely stroll to the square.

What to Expect

• Six concert evenings, starting at 7:30 PM or 8:00 PM each night
• Open-air stage with grandstands, seating categories PK1 to PK3
• Combination of the Konzerthausorchester Berlin and internationally booked solo acts
• Organizers: van Almsick & Team in cooperation with DEAG Entertainment
• Tickets starting from around €65 (PK3) up to well over €200 (PK1 with hospitality)