Treptower Park

This beautiful 230-hectare park on the banks of the River Spree is infinitely quieter than Tiergarten, and has a rich history which can still be seen today. The site is split into several different areas including picturesque Insel der Jugend (Isle of Youth), the imposing Soviet War Memorial and an idyllic lake. Trails wind through the park, perfect for walking, jogging and cycling. The wide expanses of lawn which play host to ball games, Frisbee and sunbathing are interspersed with quiet spaces for reflection.

The most striking area of the park is the Soviet War Memorial. It’s imposing grouping of stone gateways, bronze figures, and cylindrical mosaic-bedecked tomb forms one of the most stunning monuments in Berlin. This central memorial to the Soviet soldiers who died in the Battle of Berlin in 1945 is a fantastic example of impressive Soviet design. The sheer scale of it renders visitors awe-struck as they stand beneath two giant bronze soldiers, staring out at the figure of a Soviet soldier at the head of the memorial. Tall trees frame the entire area, creating a perfect unbroken rectangle of sky.

Strolling along the 4-kilometre riverside path is the perfect way to spend an hour or two. The expanse of rich green land and the calm waters of the river are in stark contrast to the harsh industrial buildings on the skyline. In the distance, grey concrete apartment blocks and the chimneys of Rummelsburg power station appear to rise out of the water. Over the river lies Spreepark, an abandoned theme park. Its ghostly Ferris wheel can be seen above the trees, spinning creakily in the breeze.

Situated in the East of the park is Eierschale Zenner, one of Berlin’s largest waterside beer gardens. Nearby is a tiny scenic harbour where a few boats are moored. It is the perfect location for a quiet drink or a meal by the water, and overlooks Insel der Jugend. Cross over the picturesque Abteibrücke – the oldest steel bridge in Germany - for a picnic on this idyllic spot of land. For a fun way to see the Spree, pedal boats can be rented near the bridge. The carp lake on the other side of the park is a beautiful spot for a paddle on a hot day.