Berlin is full of beautiful places on and in the water. Whether it's a sporty paddle, swim or dive, a relaxing sunbath or a leisurely stroll along the shore - here are 11 tips for your perfect day on the water in Berlin.
Tip 1: Relax on a classic boat tour
Probably the most popular and best-known way to get to know Berlin by water is on one of the many boat tours on the Spree and the neighbouring lakes. Whatever the weather, you can expect a great overview of Berlin's sights and nature. Whether it's just an hour or longer - there is a huge selection of different routes to enjoy the day.
When: various dates + times
Where: "Alte Börse" landing stage, Burgstraße 27, Mitte
Tip 2: Spend a day at the lake
It's not just the River Spree that flows through Berlin - numerous beautiful lakes also characterise the cityscape. Each of them has its very own charm: some are well-developed and invite you to linger with their fine beaches and leisure facilities. Others are hidden away in the countryside and exude a very special tranquillity.
To help you discover and experience the diversity of Berlin and Brandenburg's bathing lakes, we recommend our "Berlin Bathing Map" - your perfect companion for refreshing summer days.
Tip 3: Get active with water sports
Just lying around seems too boring for you? Then Berlin has plenty to offer when it comes to water sports. Whether you're a beginner or a budding pro - there's something for everyone. Stand up paddling, kitesurfing, kayaking and much more.
Tip 4: Take a cycle tour along the water
Cycling is a favourite pastime of many Berliners. So why not combine the two and cycle close to the water?
Many lakes in and around Berlin offer well-designed cycle paths on which you can get from A to B undisturbed. You can cool off at any time in between. You can find inspiring routes on our cycle tours page.
Tip 5: Enjoy a café by the water
The water is not only great for swimming, relaxing and sport, but also for enjoying a café and cake. There are a number of cafés on the banks of many lakes and also on the River Spree that invite you to spend the afternoon relaxing in a lovely atmosphere.
Tip 6: Cross the water on your own
Is it too unspectacular for you to just be chauffeured through the water and would you rather "take the helm" yourself? Then there are several opportunities to hire a wide variety of boats on many lakes. So you can decide for yourself where you want to go and what you want to see.
Tip 7: Spend extraordinary moments at sea
And to top it all off, there are some boats that not only take you from A to B for a great day, but also make the whole thing a unique experience. How about a sauna boat or a boat with a built-in whirlpool, for example? Enjoy this extraordinary time on the water.
Tip 8: Hiking along the water
If you don't want to be out on the water but still want to enjoy the idyllic atmosphere, there are some great hiking trails that invite you to marvel at the waters. If the weather holds out, you can even cool off in the water.
Hiking trails in and around Berlin
Tip 9: Across the water with your own house
For a longer trip by boat and a warm place to sleep, no matter where you end up, the many houseboats on Berlin's lakes and the Spree are ideal. What was initially very unusual is now one of the classics for exciting water trips. And with good reason: a living room, bedroom and bathroom on your own little boat? That calls for adventure.
More about houseboats in Berlin
Tip 10: Spend the night on the water
The "Eastern Comfort Hotel Ship" offers a special overnight stay. Here, an old cruise ship that has been renovated and converted into a hotel opens its doors for you. There are various cabins in different sizes and a campsite on deck. In an absolute top location in the eastern centre of Berlin, this is certainly a special opportunity to sleep on the Spree.
When: all year round
Where: Mühlenstraße 73, Friedrichshain
Tip 11: Simply take a dip
The water is home to an infinite number of plants and animals that are often invisible to us as they are hidden in the depths. But with the right diving equipment and experienced instructors, you also have the chance to discover what's hidden in the lakes in Berlin. Atlantis regularly offers courses such as trial dives, Open Water Divers, refresher courses ("Scuba Skills Update") and trial dives in the indoor pool or in the lake.
Where: Atlantis Berlin diving school, Coppistraße 11, Lichtenberg
