News from Jena’s city life. Information on urban development, the University, local business, and stories about the people shaping Jena.
From Scandinavian-inspired retreats to urban bagel shops, Jena’s café scene is more diverse than ever. Whether you are a student looking for a quiet study spot or a family seeking a child-friendly oasis, our curated list of insider tips from t.akt magazine highlights the best places to enjoy a high-quality brew in the Saale valley.
Once facing high vacancy rates and decay, the Columbuscenter in Jena-Winzerla is showing signs of recovery. With ground-floor occupancy approaching 50% and the opening of new shops like MD Alibabamarkt, this neighborhood hub is fighting for a comeback. Discover how new renovation plans and a fresh mix of tenants aim to revitalize this essential local supply center and improve the quality of life for the district’s residents.
In a decisive 6-2 vote, the Winzerla district council has rejected plans for a new community encounter center. Instead of a new building, local representatives are urging the city of Jena to repurpose the existing Goetheschule. This move highlights a growing preference for sustainable urban development and signals a potential shift in the neighborhood’s social infrastructure planning.
Jena is accelerating its housing development. The city administration has detailed new guidelines for the federal ‘Bauturbo’ law, aimed at streamlining building permits. With the housing market under pressure, these measures could significantly speed up construction projects across the city. A final decision by the Stadtrat is expected in April, potentially marking a major turning point for local urban development in 2026.
Starting February 23, 2026, JES Verkehrsgesellschaft will introduce an additional service on Line 410 to ease morning overcrowding. Connecting Großlöbichau and Wogau directly to Jena Busbahnhof, the new ‘booster bus’ aims to provide a more comfortable journey for students and professionals during peak hours, arriving just in time for the start of school and work.
The wait is over for treasure hunters and vintage fans. Jena’s flea market season officially begins on February 21, 2026, in the city center. Whether you are looking for second-hand furniture or planning to clear out your cellar, our comprehensive guide covers all monthly dates and essential vendor information for the upcoming season at Löbderstraße and Kollegiengasse.
Looking for unique finds and vintage treasures? This Saturday, February 14, Jena-Isserstedt hosts a major flea market at the GLOBUS SB-Warenhaus. From second-hand fashion to rare collectibles, the event offers something for everyone while promoting sustainability. Discover why these local markets are trending and get expert tips for a successful hunting trip in our latest community guide for Jena.
A joint aid shipment from the partner cities of Jena and Erlangen has successfully reached Brovary, Ukraine. Delivering essential medical equipment like rehab beds to the local central clinic, this mission highlights the strength of municipal cooperation. Supported by the GIZ, the initiative continues with more deliveries and specialized minibuses planned for March, ensuring long-term support for the city’s healthcare and mobility infrastructure.
The renowned travel and photography festival Lichtbildarena returns to Jena from November 13 to 15, 2026. Under the theme ‘Goosebump Moments,’ the Friedrich-Schiller-Universität Jena will host emotional live reportages from across the globe. Featuring new interactive formats and a historic cinema bus, the event remains a cornerstone of the city’s cultural calendar, bringing international perspectives and breathtaking visuals to the heart of Thuringia.
Need medical assistance in Jena this Friday? As regular doctor offices close for the weekend, knowing where to go is vital. From on-call practices at the Universitätsklinikum to 24-hour pharmacies in the region, we provide a comprehensive guide to medical care and specialized services available in Jena, Weimar, and Apolda today.
