Berlin comes alive in the summertime with bike rides and picnics in the city's parks and by its nearby lakes, al-fresco partying until dawn, and dining on the bustling streets. And guess what? Summer isn’t over yet. There’s still time to book a last-minute trip to Berlin and experience the German capital in all its glory.
We asked Berlin local Lorena to share her favorite spots in the city for the summer, and photographer Julia Nimke, to give us a glimpse of what a day at the nearby lakes looks like.
A day out at Berlin’s Lakes with Julia Nimke.
With 3,000 lakes and over 30,000 km of rivers and streams, Berlin and Brandenburg offer countless options for summer swimming spots. Take a trip outside of the city and enjoy lakeside beaches, idyllic woodland bays, artificial lakes, and beaches along the rivers beckoning locals and visitors to enjoy picnics, al-fresco dining and days out by the lakes.
Strandbad Lübars.
This classic old-school lake features a restaurant and a beach with slides. The entrance fee is 7€, except on Wednesdays when it's 3€. Enjoy some French fries and relive childhood memories here.
Spreewald
Easily reached by train, this region south of Berlin is filled with numerous water channels perfect for kayaking. It offers untouched nature and scenic beauty all around.
Stienitzsee.
A nearby lake perfect for relaxing, with great water quality. You can walk or cycle around the lake. Take the S-Bahn to Strausberg and then cycle or take a bus to the lake.
Lorena’s Guide to Berlin: What to Do, See, and Eat.
Delicious home style Vietnamese cooking. Found on a corner near a small park, 1990 Vegan Living is known for its fresh ingredients and flavourful dishes at reasonable prices.
Dark Matter.
A sensory exhibition focusing on the multidimensional parallels of light, space and sound. Where the lines between the digital and real world become blurred.
A Berlin legend. Hire a private booth with your friends or get stuck in with everyone else. Sing your heart out, drink, dance. Its almost guaranteed you’ll have a good time.
One of Germany’s best known thrifting stores. Take your time and enjoy picking out some unique pieces at low prices.
Walk at the Spree
Right next to Locke at East Side Gallery, enjoy a summer’s walk along the River Spree. Take in the history of the East Side Gallery, stop along at one of the many riverside bars and cafe’s or just take in the sunset over Berlin.
EKO
A late-night cocktail bar in nearby Friedrichshain with eclectic décor and a great Soundsystem playing mostly vinyl's.
One of the cities most renowned party spots. Set on the Spree expect beautiful sunsets, summer vibes and a line-up of solid selectors both local and international.
Locke at East Side Gallery
With views across the Spree and an unbeatable location, Locke at East Side Gallery is the perfect place to soak in the summer sun and to experience Berlin at it’s best.