About Mercedes-Benz Arena
Mercedes-Benz Arena is a modern, multipurpose indoor arena in Berlin’s Friedrichshain district, opened in September 2008. It was originally called O2 World (2008–2015) and was renamed under a 20-year naming-rights deal with Mercedes-Benz . The venue was built on a former railway yard and was part of the Mediaspree redevelopment. Its design intentionally “re-create[s] a part of Berlin lost behind the Iron Curtain,” with remnants of the Berlin Wall still standing nearby . Populous (formerly HOK Sport) and JSK Architects designed the facility, which cost around €165 million .
The arena can hold up to 17,000 spectators for concerts and large events. (For sports, capacity is slightly lower: about 14,500 for basketball and 14,200 for ice hockey .) It serves as home to two of Berlin’s top sports teams: the ALBA Berlin basketball club and the Eisbären Berlin ice hockey club . In its 15 years of operation it has become emblematic of Berlin’s entertainment scene. In fact, the first-ever act to play here was Metallica on 12 September 2008 , and other early flagship shows included Tina Turner. Since then it has attracted world-renowned acts from Beyoncé and ABBA to Lady Gaga and Billie Eilish. As one report noted, the venue has hosted nearly two thousand events and over 18 million guests in just 15 years (as of 2023) .
Architecturally the arena is striking. A dramatically curved glass-and-steel box, it features an enormous LED-lit façade (originally installed by LightWild) that runs about 380 feet long and 40 feet high, covered with roughly 280,000 individual LED modules . This dynamic, colorful exterior makes the arena a visual landmark – you can see animated graphics, event advertisements and light shows from blocks away. Inside, the main lobby continues the high-energy theme: walls lined with tens of thousands of embedded RGB LEDs (on the order of 74,000 fixtures) bathe arrivals in shifting blue-and-white light (colors originally tied to the old O2 sponsorship) . All of this gives the arena a trademark “futuristic” feel that instantly signals an entertainment experience is about to begin.
Signature features: High-tech LED façade and lobby lighting (together creating a “very high energy...dynamic” atmosphere ), a transparent curved exterior, and a ground-level plaza (“Mercedes-Platz”) that connects to the Spree riverside and nearby mall.Historic significance: Opened post-reunification as a flagship for East Berlin’s cultural revival, on former railroad land, with pieces of the Berlin Wall in view . Hosted early milestone events (Metallica’s opening concert, 2009 Euroleague Final Four) and has since become a key venue in Germany.Capacity & Uses: 17,000 for standing/seated shows , home to Eisbären hockey and ALBA basketball , plus many concerts, exhibitions, and big-scale entertainment.
Events and Programming
Mercedes-Benz Arena hosts a very diverse event schedule year-round. It is a top European stop for global concert tours (pop, rock, hip-hop, electronic). Since 2008 it has booked artists from every genre – for example, world stars like Beyoncé, Ariana Grande, Billie Eilish, BLACKPINK, ABBA, Arctic Monkeys and Britney Spears have all played shows here. In early 2023 alone the arena’s calendar included Italian rockers Måneskin, pop star Lizzo, Robbie Williams, George Ezra and Lewis Capaldi . Big music productions, family shows (Disney concerts, ice musicals, etc.) and EDM festivals also use the stage.
On the sports side, the arena is busy nearly every week during the season. It is the home court/ice for ALBA Berlin (basketball, top German league) and Eisbären Berlin (ice hockey, DEL). Each team draws large crowds for league games and playoffs. Beyond team sports, the arena also hosts rare one-off sporting events, such as championship playoff games or combat sports (boxing, MMA promotions like “We Love MMA” have held events here). Notably, it even hosted the EuroLeague Final Four (European basketball championship semifinals and finals) in 2009 . In short, on any given month you might find a major concert, a sold-out basketball game, a hockey playoff or a special show (e.g. esports, circus or celebratory events) at the arena.
Concerts: Tens of shows per year across genres – pop, rock, R&B, classical crossover and more. (See official schedule for current tours.) Ticket prices vary widely by artist and seating; for example, recent events showed starting prices in the €60–€80 range , though top acts or premium seats can cost much more.Sports: ~25–30 home games per season (hockey and basketball). Family prices for sports are typically lower (often €10–€30 range for many seats), with VIP/hospitality options extra. Season tickets are sold through the teams (Eisbären/albas).Special events: The arena is also available for bookers and shows (conventions, esports, live TV recordings, cultural events). The flexible layout (end stage vs center stage) allows creative staging for entertainment series or annual festivals.Past highlights: Aside from Metallica and sports finals noted above, other memorable shows include Tina Turner’s 2009 concerts (both sold out), Beyoncé and Madonna concerts on multi-night stands, and regular Berlin stops for acts like Justin Bieber, Taylor Swift (as a tribute show) or big K-pop tours.
Tickets and Booking
Tickets for arena events are sold through official channels. The physical box office at the arena has been closed, so all tickets must be purchased online or via phone/artificial agent services . Typically, tickets go on sale a few months before a concert or well ahead of each team’s season. Major tours often have presales (fanclub, credit-card promotion) and then general sale in stages. To secure good seats, it’s wise to follow the artist’s or teams’ announcements and book early.
For sports events, season ticket packages and single-game tickets are offered by the team websites (Eisbären and ALBA Berlin have their own outlets) or official partners. There are usually box office desks open on game days at the arena (opening about an hour before puck drop or tip-off) for last-minute purchases.
When buying, note that prices vary by seating zone. Upper-level “restricted view” or standing areas are cheapest, mid-tier courtside or rink-level seats are mid-range, and lower bowl/ VIP sections are highest. For example, some upcoming acts at the arena show face prices starting around €60–€85 for mid-range seats , rising to €150+ for front floor or VIP seats. Promotional discounts (group rates, team-member offers, etc.) may sometimes be available through sponsors or fan clubs.
Quick tips: Always buy from authorized sources – the arena’s official website or recognized fan ticketing services. Beware of scalpers and resale sites. Refund/exchange policies depend on the event promoter; if a show is cancelled or rescheduled (as happened with some tours), credit or exchanges are handled through the original seller. For sold-out shows, check if the promoter offers a waiting list or returns.
Seating and Layout
The arena’s seating is highly flexible depending on the event. For sports, the standard bowl surrounds the court or ice. Basketball (ALBA games) uses a rectangular 28m court in one half of the arena, with seating on all sides. Hockey (Eisbären) uses the full oval ice sheet, with seats around all sides. In either case, even the uppermost rows have a good view due to the steep tiers. Many fans find lower-side sections (near mid-court or between the benches) give avery balanced sports viewing angle.
For concerts and shows, there are multiple stage options: often an end-stage (tight against one end of the arena) or center/mid-arena stage. The arena offers both seated and standing floor configurations. For example, a floor-level pit can be arranged for standing spectators or filled with temporary seating. The upper decks remain fixed. In general, “center-stage, floor-standing” offers a 360° show (and usually more seats on the floor), while “end-stage with floor seating” places all seats facing forward.
Some general viewing notes: The arena was designed with good sightlines – few (if any) seats have major obstructions. Aspiring concert-goers should decide if they prefer to be on the floor (for dancing and proximity) or in the stands (for an overview). For sporting events, die-hard fans often sit in designated zones (e.g. ALBA fan section behind one basket, or Eisbären section behind net). Acoustically, the sound is kept loud and clear with modern reinforcement (a sound upgrade is planned for 2024 , based on detailed acoustic studies). In short, seats at most levels offer a quality experience.
Seating charts: The official charts (available on the arena’s site) show each layout. In brief: Sports seating and concert seating are different. For example, the arena has 59 private suites/system lounges above the bowl for corporate or VIP guests, and those are typically coupled with premium seating.Best seats: There’s no single “best” seat because it depends on event. Floor seats (and front sections) put you close to the action but mean you face a single stage direction. Mid-level side seats (rows 5–10) often provide a balanced view. For hockey, being 8–12 rows up along one of the long sides is ideal to see plays develop; for basketball, mid-court sideline viewing is preferred. In any case, Berlin’s arena is compact enough that even upper corners remain relatively near the stage/sport.Floor standing: Major concerts often allocate a standing pit on the floor (capacity varies by stage setup). These general-admission areas can fill quickly, so arrive early if you want to be up front.Avoid: Rear corner seats at the highest level sometimes have steeper climbs. Also be aware that sections directly behind large speaker stacks (in end-stage shows) may have muffled sound. If sensitive, look for aisles or seats offset to the side of the speakers.
Getting There and Parking
Address: Mercedes-Platz 1 (sometimes listed as Mühlenstraße 12–30), 10243 Berlin-Friedrichshain. It sits on the north bank of the Spree River, between Ostbahnhof and the Warschauer Straße U/S-Bahn interchange.
Public transit: Berlin’s S-Bahn, U-Bahn, tram and bus system all serve the area, making it very easy to reach without a car. The closest major stops are:
S+U Warschauer Straße station (about a 5-min walk): Served by S-Bahn lines S3, S5, S7, S75 and S9, plus U-Bahn line U1. Warshauer Straße has direct stair/bridge access to the arena plaza. Several bus lines (including 347 and night bus N1) and trams (M10, M13) also stop here . S+U Ostbahnhof (East Central Station) (also ~5–7 min walk via a covered pedestrian walkway): Served by S3, S5, S7, S75, S9 and regional/Long-distance trains. From Ostbahnhof, follow signs eastward to walk directly to the arena. Bus lines 140, 240, 347 and N40 also stop near Ostbahnhof .Bus and Tram: In addition to M10 and M13, the arena is on several bus routes. Always check the BVG app – lines like 347 or 340 run along the Spree and stop directly at Mercedes-Platz. Night buses on weekends cover Friedrichshain if trains stop.
Driving and Parking: If you drive, there are approximately 2,000 dedicated parking spaces divided into zones (P1–P4) . P1 is reserved for VIP/pass holders. P2 and P3 are entered via Tamara-Danz-Straße, while P4 (largest lot) is entered from Marianne-von-Rantzau-Straße . Note the fees: On non-event days it’s about €2 per hour. During events (from 3 hours before to 2 hours after), the arena charges flat rates – around €8 for Eisbären/ALBA games and about €10 for most concerts . Payment is via machines or the SMS&park mobile system. The official address for navigation systems is Mühlenstraße 12–30 .
Park & Ride: To avoid traffic, consider using Berlin’s Park & Ride. For example, you can park at Ostbahnhof or at the Warschauer Straße P+R lot and then take a short S-Bahn ride. Both stations are only a few minutes from the arena by train .
Inside the Venue
Entry and Security: Expect standard arena security (bag check, metal detectors). After 2017 there is a strict bag policy: only one small handbag (up to A4 size, 21×29.7cm) is allowed . Larger backpacks or bags are not permitted; if you have a large bag you must check it or use station lockers. All visitors must show a valid ticket for entry. Doors typically open ~2 hours before a concert (roughly 1.5 hours before an ice hockey game, 1 hour before a basketball game) so you can come early to find your seat and visit concessions.
Arena layout: Inside you’ll find three main seating levels with wide concourses. Restrooms are plentiful on each level, with accessible stalls on every floor. The arena is fully electric (no smoking anywhere indoors). The main entrance (lobby) leads down to the lower bowl and up to upper decks via escalators or elevators. Note: The main (tall) entrance has stairs, but there are alternative accessible entrances (see below) that lead directly to many seats.
Cashless facility: Mercedes-Benz Arena is fully cashless. All on-site transactions (food stands, merchandise stores, cloakroom, parking machines inside the lot, etc.) take only cards or digital pay (debit, VISA, Mastercard, AMEX, Apple Pay, etc.) . There are no in-house ATMs, so plan accordingly.
Food and beverage: A wide variety of concessions runs along the concourses. Typical German stadium fare (grilled bratwurst, currywurst, pretzels, popcorn, pizza, nachos, soft drinks, beer, wine, etc.) is available. There is also a full-service “World Dinner” restaurant in the premium level for a sit-down meal (usually reserved for VIP or suite guests). Outside food/drink is strictly prohibited (except we do allow baby formula or medically necessary items with proof). Premium seats include complimentary snacks or dining depending on package. Beverages are served in reusable (deposit) cups – a small refundable fee may apply.
Merchandise and services: Official team shops (ALBA and Eisbären) often operate on game days. During concerts and public events there are merchandise carts or stands selling tour-related items. A pay cloakroom is available for coats and large items (about €6 per bag) ; any extra proceeds often go to charity. For accessibility, note there are elevators to all seating levels and a limited number of wheelchairs available on-site at no charge (ask staff at the lobby). Wi-Fi is not guaranteed, but Berlin’s mobile networks generally work well inside.
Nearby Amenities
Restaurants and Bars: The Friedrichshain/Kreuzberg neighborhood around Warschauer Straße has many dining options. Within a short walk you’ll find casual eateries and fast-food (pizza, Asian takeout, burger joints, kebab shops) around Warschauer and Revaler Straße. The adjacent East Side Mall (at Ostbahnhof) contains chain cafés and food outlets. For sit-down meals, popular spots in the area include cozy German pubs or international bistros; a reservation in Kreuzberg or Mitte may be wise on a busy night. For drinks after the show, head to the nearby Boxhagener Platz or along Warschauer Straße, which have lively bars and beer gardens.
Hotels: Several hotels are near Warschauer Straße and Ostbahnhof for convenient lodging, from economy to upscale. (They are typically in the 3km range from the venue.) If you stay farther in central Berlin (Alexanderplatz, Prenzlauer Berg, Mitte), you can reach the arena easily by the frequent S-Bahn (to Ostbahnhof) or U-Bahn (to Warschauer). Transit runs late into the night on weekends, so late shows are usually manageable.
Other Amenities: There is an ATM and currency exchange at Ostbahnhof. Nearby bike-share stations and taxi stands are also available. If you want to spend time before the event, a stroll along the Spree or a visit to the East Side Gallery (the outdoor segment of the Berlin Wall) is worthwhile – it starts practically at the arena’s doorstep. Always allow extra time for travel in event traffic or leisurely arrival at these attractions.
What Makes This Venue Special
The Mercedes-Benz Arena stands out for its combination of high-tech design, history, and atmosphere. Its LED-illuminated façade and lobby lighting are often highlighted in architectural reviews as creating an immersive, “very high energy” arrival experience . The glassy, curved exterior helps the building visually connect with Berlin’s riverside and the nearby East Side Gallery, symbolizing Berlin’s reunification and modernization. Inside, the steep seating and clear sightlines help it feel more intimate than some larger stadia – one reviewer noted its rare balance of scale and intimacy.
Historically, it has become Berlin’s premier concert arena. Landmarks of its lore include that opening-night Metallica concert and Tina Turner’s famous 2009 performances . Locals also take pride in hosting future international music milestones here (Lady Gaga’s world tour, ABBA’s reunion concerts, Olympic bid events, etc.). Culturally it serves as a focal point for Berlin’s nightlife and entertainment economy; nearby businesses and Berliners alike celebrate big shows as city events.
Technically the arena is state-of-the-art: besides its unique lighting, the ice floor can be covered by removable 7cm-thick panels to insulate and protect it during concerts and other events . The venue is also award-winning in terms of accessibility and operations – for instance, it introduced an “in-seat delivery” service (via QR codes and a food app) so guests don’t miss any action . In all, artists and audiences often praise its modern amenities, central location and lively surroundings. It may not have the historical pedigree of some older Berlin sites (like the Olympiastadion or Waldbühne), but it quickly carved out its own iconic status in the local culture.
Visitor Tips and Information
Accessibility : The arena is fully accessible. There are 130 wheelchair spaces (each with a companion seat) on Level 2 accessible via elevators . All restroom stalls are wheelchair-friendly. Accessible parking spots are in the “Arena” garage; guests can also use the nearby East Side Mall garage (accessible via Tamara-Danz-Strasse) . Wheelchair users should enter via Gate 9 (next to the Premium entrance) or the press entrance (Gate 2) – both are level-entry points . Service/guide dogs are welcome with prior notice . Audio commentary in German is provided free (with headphones) at Eisbären home games for visually impaired fans .
Safety and Items to Bring : A valid ticket is required to enter – e-tickets on your phone are fine. Bring ID if you might need it, though it’s typically only checked for certain sports events or special areas. Dress comfortably and remember Berlin weather if you walk from transit – the arena is indoors, so you can shed coats once inside (cloak check is available for a small fee ). You may want earplugs for very loud concerts or games. Check the weather and plan transport accordingly: U-Bahn and S-Bahn run up to midnight on weekdays, to 1:00–2:00 AM on Fridays/Saturdays, and all-night on weekends. If taking a taxi or rideshare, the press entrance on Hedwig-Wachenheim-Straße is recommended for drop-offs (it’s closer to the accessible entrance) .
Bags and Cameras : As noted, only small bags (max A4 size) are allowed . Large bags or suitcases must be checked or left behind. There is a paid bag-check; alternatively, Ostbahnhof lockers are a short walk away . Outside food and drinks (except baby/medical needs) are not permitted . Cameras: Smart phones and small point-and-shoots are generally fine. Professional equipment (DSLRs, any with detachable lens, video cameras) is usually banned by default unless the event producer explicitly allows it. Room lighting may be low, so consider your phone’s camera low-light limits.
Doors and Wait:** Doors usually open about 2 hours before a concert (earlier events may vary slightly). Try not to arrive exactly at opening – many fans pour in just before showtime causing delays. For sports, hockey doors open ~1½ hrs before puck drop, basketball ~1 hr before tip-off . Plan to be seated early if you want to catch the full show; entry is only allowed with a ticket. Late arrivals can usually still enter, but latecomers may need to wait for a natural break.
Payments and Services : Remember it’s cashless . Bring a credit/debit card or mobile pay. The arena app (“Uber Platz App”) has info on building maps, restroom locations and concession lines, which can save time. Merchandise stands accept card payments only. If you have VIP or premium seats, ask about lounge access or in-seat service. For emergencies, first-aid stations and staff are located at each concourse level.
Common Advice : Check your specific event leaflet – for example, if attending a family show or children’s concert, review age guidelines. (In general, kids under 16 need an adult, and under 6 must always be accompanied .) Queueing can get long, so use restroom breaks wisely during intermission. And don’t forget to enjoy the view: the Spree River and the Oberbaum Bridge are right outside, especially striking at night. With these tips and the information above, you’ll be set to enjoy your visit at Mercedes-Benz Arena in Berlin!
What is the seating capacity of Mercedes-Benz Arena?
The arena can hold about 17,000 people for concerts and events. For sports, capacity is slightly smaller: roughly 14,500 for basketball (ALBA Berlin games) and 14,200 for ice hockey (Eisbären Berlin games) . Configurations (standing floors vs. seated) affect exact numbers but these are the ballpark figures.
How can I buy tickets and where is the box office?
Tickets are sold only through official channels (online or phone) since the arena’s own box office is permanently closed . Typically you purchase through the arena’s ticket portal or the event promoter’s site. For sports games, tickets come via the team’s box office or website. On event days there may be a pickup or last-minute counter, but plan to buy ahead since popular shows often sell out.
What are typical ticket price ranges for concerts or games?
Prices vary by event and seating zone. Concert tickets can range from modest sums for upper-tier seats to over €100+ for VIP/floor sections. For example, upcoming shows have starting prices around €60–€85 for mid-level seats , with high-end seats much more. Sports tickets tend to be cheaper; many seats for basketball or hockey games might run €10–€30 depending on team/class of seat, with premium courtside/hoop-side seats higher. Always check the specific event’s pricing grid.
How do I get to the arena by public transport?
The arena is very transit-friendly. The closest stop is Warschauer Straße (S-Bahn lines S3, S5, S7, S75, S9; U-Bahn U1; also many trams and buses) – it’s only a few minutes’ walk via a pedestrian bridge . East of the arena is Ostbahnhof (same S-Bahn lines plus regional/ICE trains), about a 5–7 minute walk on a covered path . There are also direct buses (e.g. 347, 140, 240) and night buses, so just check your route in the BVG app. In short, take the S-Bahn or U-Bahn close to the arena and follow the marked exits to Mercedes-Platz.
Is there parking at Mercedes-Benz Arena and how much does it cost?
Yes. There are approximately 2,000 on-site parking spaces divided into four lots (P1–P4) . P1 is for premium/voucher holders, while P2/P3 are off Tamara-Danz-Straße and P4 off Marianne-von-Rantzau-Straße. Fees vary: on non-event days it's €2/hour, but on event days there’s a flat rate (around €8 for home basketball/hockey games, €10 for most concerts) . Pay at machines or via SMS&Park. For cooler temperatures or cheaper rates, many fans prefer to park at nearby Ostbahnhof’s Park+Ride and use the S-Bahn for the last few minutes .
Are there any restrictions on bags, food or cameras?
Yes. Large bags and backpacks are not allowed – only small bags (up to A4 size) are permitted . If you have a larger bag it must be checked or stored (limited cloakroom space costs about €6) . Outside food and drinks are prohibited , except for baby/medical needs. Regarding cameras, smartphone cameras and compact point-and-shoots are usually fine, but professional DSLR cameras (or any with detachable lenses) and video cameras are generally banned unless explicitly allowed by the event . Always check the specific event page for any extra rules.
Is the Mercedes-Benz Arena wheelchair accessible?
Yes. The arena is designed for full accessibility. Wheelchair users have about 130 special seats (with companion spots) on Level 2, reachable by lifts . There are reserved disabled parking spots in the arena’s garage and at the nearby East Side Mall . The accessible entrances are Entrance 9 (next to Premium Entrance) and Entrance 2 (press entrance) ; the main lobby has steps, so those two entrances avoid stairs. Wheelchair-accessible restrooms are on every level. Staff are available to assist with directions. Service and guide dogs are welcome (with advance notice) .
What accessibility features are offered for hearing or visual impairments?
For the visually impaired, the arena provides free audio-description headsets at Eisbären Berlin home games. You can pick up a headset (with a ID deposit) at Entrance 2 before the game; it broadcasts the live German-language commentary as you watch . For hearing-impaired guests, in-seat delivery of food/drinks (via a smartphone app) means you don't miss announcements, and the arena typically has clear digital signage. (Amplified sound is the norm at concerts, making them generally accessible.) Staff will accommodate other needs if alerted. Overall, the arena emphasizes inclusion and has been praised for its accessible infrastructure .
Can assistance dogs accompany visitors?
Yes. Service and assistance animals (such as guide dogs) are allowed inside the arena. The venue asks you to notify them ahead of time (via their guest service email) so they can prepare the best seating location, but once notified they welcome your assistance dog with no extra fee . There are no designated kennel facilities, so the dog stays with you throughout. The dog can sit on the floor at your feet or on the companion seat next to you if needed.
Where are the best pre-show food and accommodation options?
The area around Warschauer Straße and Ostbahnhof is filled with restaurants and hotels. Inside Mercedes-Platz itself there is a hotel and a few quick bites (coffee shops, fast-casual). For dining, nearby popular spots include German pubs and international cafés along Warschauer Strasse or in the East Side Mall. Many attendees grab drinks or dinner in the surrounding neighborhood (Boxhagener Platz, Simon-Dach-Strasse) before a late show. Lodging-wise, there are several hotels a short walk from the arena and many more in central Mitte (Alexanderplatz) reachable by one or two S-Bahn stops. Allow enough time — weekend transit in Berlin runs 24h, but if your show ends late verify the latest U-Bahn/S-Bahn schedule or use a night bus or taxi.
