Berlin in summer is definitely a water city! The rivers and canals connect numerous lakes and surround dreamy islands and hidden bays. Whether on the Wannsee in the south-west or the large Müggelsee in the east, the Tegeler See and Havelsee in the north or even in the city centre. There are water sports enthusiasts everywhere. So if you love activities in and around the water, Berlin is the place for you. Here are 11 tips for you to enjoy in Berlin.
Tip 1: Dive into Berlin's waters
Diving is a unique experience that opens up another world to you - full of wonders and secrets beneath the water's surface. This fascinating sport allows you to discover what lies beyond the surface of the water. Explore what is hidden in the lakes, the habitat of an infinite number of plants and animals.
At the diving centre on Lake Glienicke, you can dive with your own equipment - if you are a beginner, you can of course also hire it. Various courses at different levels make it easier for you to get started. The Atlantis Berlin diving centre in Lichtenberg also offers experienced instructors.
Where: Diving centre at Glienicker See, Verlängerte Uferpromenade 21, Spandau
When: Saturday & Sunday: 8.30 am - 6 pm, weekdays flexible by arrangement
Where: Atlantis Berlin diving centre, Coppistraße 11, Lichtenberg
When: daily 11.00 - 19.00; except Sundays
Tip 2: Paddle upright through Berlin
Stand-up paddling (SUP) has many enthusiastic fans in Berlin! The capital offers a unique blend of urban charm and idyllic nature for SUP enthusiasts. The SUP station at the Funkhaus opposite Plänterwald offers various courses, guided tours and SUP yoga. Not only is it in an idyllic location, it is also a perfect starting point for a sightseeing tour on the water. You can paddle around the Plänterwald with Treptower Park, the Insel der Jugend and Rummelsburger Bucht all the way to the impressive Oberbaumbrücke.
The Schlachtensee also offers perfect conditions: enjoy nature completely undisturbed in the middle of the Grunewald forest, as motorised boats are not permitted. The Havel and the Spree are the main area for stand-up paddlers in Berlin. This opens up completely new perspectives: whether sightseeing or paddling through natural landscapes. So, grab a SUP board and explore Berlin from the water!
Tip 3: Combine water and relaxation
SUP yoga is an exciting variation of yoga that you practise on a stand-up paddleboard (SUP) on the water. The challenge of balance, balance training and at the same time relaxation and stress reduction and last but not least the connection to nature combine these two sports perfectly. It's a great way to strengthen your body and mind while getting to know Berlin from the water. Give it a try!
Tips for the summer in Berlin
Tip 4: Explore the city from a kayak or canoe
Berlin offers countless opportunities for kayaking and canoeing. A fascinating water sport that is not only very easy on the joints, but also a great way to get some exercise without feeling like you're working out. It's ideal for relieving stress and connecting with the surrounding nature. you can paddle through waterways in New Venice, take a two-hour sunset tour from the Urbanhafen harbour in Kreuzberg or explore the idyllic peninsula at the Mildenberg free port - a beautiful natural paradise.
Kayaking and canoeing is also an environmentally friendly way to get around. Get a GreenKayak and paddle across Berlin for free. Collect plastic and rubbish from the water. GreenKayak is available at two different locations in Berlin. Or you can use the Kayakomat self-service station. You can book kayaks and SUP boards online at various locations in Berlin.
Boat hire in Berlin
Tip 5: Glide across the water at high speed
Do you want to feel the wind in your face and the speed on the water, the feeling of gliding over the waves? Then go waterskiing and wakeboarding. Whether you're a beginner or a pro, there's something for everyone. Enjoy the mix of adrenaline and nature, challenge and relaxation. Just try it out and find out what you enjoy the most. Please note that you can only water ski in Berlin in certain areas and designated facilities.
Where? Here, for example:
- Waterski lift in Grossbeeren, Bahnhofstrape 49, 14979 Grossbeeren
- Wet & Wild water ski centre Velten, Am Bernsteinsee 1, 16727 Velten
- Wellenrebellen, Am Pichelsee 40a-40c, Spandau
- Waterski park Zossen, Schünower Straße 19, 15806 Zossen
When: please check the websites of the providers.
Tip 6: Action in the indoor surf centre
In a stylish hall near the city centre, you can experience that maritime surfing feeling on a standing wave in any weather. Whether beginner or pro, everyone can find the perfect wave here. Boards and wetsuits are provided, so you don't need to bring anything except a good mood. Those watching can relax in the restaurant or at the bar with a view of the water. Wellenwerk also attaches great importance to sustainability: green electricity, regional ingredients and a well thought-out waste concept are all part of the concept.
Tip 7: Hiking around Berlin's waters
If you just want to look out over the water and enjoy the idyllic atmosphere , there are many wonderful hiking trails that lead to and around Berlin's lakes. Is the weather suitable? Then take your swimming gear with you to dive into the cool water. Want to learn something else? Then take advantage of this fantastic opportunity to experience nature up close and learn a lot about useful wild plants at the same time. A wild herb hike appeals to all the senses. Discover the treasures of nature together with experienced Berlin wildlife experts.
top hiking trails in and around Berlin
Tip 8: Cycle around the lakes
Cycling around the lakes and along Berlin's rivers is even more sporty. Enjoy the picturesque landscape, green forests, picturesque lakeside promenades and rolling hills. The tranquil surroundings of the lakes provide the perfect setting for a relaxing cycle tour. Each lake has its own charm and depending on your mood and preferences, you can explore the right lake for you.
Tip 9: Spend the night by and on the water
Spending the night on the water means your holiday starts from the very first minute. This means adventure, sightseeing and relaxation all in one. Berlin offers you the opportunity to experience nature and sightseeing at the same time on one of the many houseboats on Berlin's lakes and rivers. Everything you need is provided: Bedroom, bathroom and kitchen.
If you are looking for a unique stay that you will remember forever, then we recommend the renovated old cruise ship Eastern Comfort Hotelschiff. A floating hotel located on the Spree between vibrant Kreuzberg and Friedrichshain, right on the banks of the Spree. Or you can choose one of the many hotels located directly on the water, offering you the perfect view.
Spend the night by the water
Tip 10: Enjoy the freedom of sailing
Accept the challenge, let the wind blow around your nose, show off your skills and experience an incredible sense of calm as the boat glides through the waves. Sailing is not about getting from one point to another, but rather the journey itself. The journey is the destination. Discover bays, small islands and the city from a completely different perspective.
Tip 11: More tips about Germany's largest water sports area
Over 2,500 kilometres of waterways criss-cross the Berlin and Brandenburg Lake District and Mecklenburg-Vorpommern, making the region a paradise for water sports enthusiasts. Around 900 kilometres of these can even be navigated without a licence. Whether it's a houseboat holiday, a relaxed raft trip or a sporty canoe tour - the choice is yours.
The Grand Tour connects two federal states and three capital cities and offers you a unique mix of nature, culture and adventure. There's also plenty to discover on land: well-developed cycle and hiking trails along the rivers and lakes lead you to new favourite places.
You can find lots more information for your adventure in and around the water on the Deutschlands Seenland website.
